Sir Laurie, Looking Forward

His family was rocked by the doctor’s news. Husband, father and grandfather, Laurie Silvera was not likely to come out of his 17-day unconsciousness, suffering from complications from the digestive disease diverticulitis.

It was early in 2009 and Silvera, then …

Barney Gives Back

This is the story of Barney, a gentle giant whose life was changed through the transformative power of love. He has since touched many human hearts with his grace and sensitivity, offered in spite of all he has been through.…

What is Laminitis?

Laminitis is caused by a disruption in the junction between the sensitive and insensitive tissues of the hoof, known as the basement membrane.

Barn Boyfriends on Parade

I was raised in a house with my two brothers, my father and my long-suffering mother. There are disadvantages to being raised in such a testosterone filled environment. To say that my understanding of the interpersonal relationships between women is …

Charlotte’s Wealth

Twice a week, every week, Steph Tomiyama travels miles from her home to where a sorrel mare, known as Charlotte, waits expectantly – standing at the gate, waiting, walking away then back again, ears pricked, listening, waiting.

They’ve been together …

From Desk to Derby

I hadn’t given much thought to the equestrian sport of endurance riding until I decided to enter the Mongol Derby – a 1,000-kilometre horse race across Mongolia where riders change mounts every 40km. I’m a recreational English rider – I …

Preventing Spooks with Steve Rother

A horse’s focus can shift in a heartbeat – transforming him from a willing, on-task partner to one who is concerned only with self-preservation. At times, his flight instinct can override his training. The moment your horse becomes scared or …

How to Neck Rein with Finesse

Initially trained to speak “direct rein”, as the horse advances in education you’ll begin to communicate with a curb bit and introduce pressure on the neck.

Stop Barn Fires Before They Start

After experiencing a rash of barn fires this summer, the Perth East Fire Department in Ontario contacted us with a safety warning for horse owners. The following is a list of fire prevention tips:

  • Do not allow smoking in or

The UKs Inspiring OTTB Success

Retrained racehorses are the new “must-have” in the UK showing fraternity. This summer thousands of Thoroughbred riders have once again chased qualifying classes for important finals making up the supporting finals at the cream of the UK equestrian calendar: Royal …

Artificial Aids: Supports or Shortcuts?

The use of training aids – such as spurs, whips, draw reins and martingales – is a polarizing subject among decision makers of major equine associations and riders alike. Some say they are useful tools in the hands of an …