Hay Chix Buckle Safety Covers

I’ve been a huge fan of this company for years, both for the quality of products and their customer service. I have their hay nets in all of my stalls. But I do blanket, and the issue of buckles getting caught in nets has always been a concern. The crew at Hay Chix has come up with an easy and cost-effective solution: a pack of 12 buckle covers (in three different sizes) that easily Velcro over blanket buckles to lessen the chance of getting stuck. They’re super sturdy, the different size options have worked on all of my different blanket brands, and they’re super easy-on-easy-off. These make great gifts for barn friends—and you may as well pick up a pack or two for your own stocking.

Shop for $20 on haychix.com.

Always Remember: The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, the Horse, and the Storm by Charley Mackesy

If you are an equestrian who has not yet heard of the British artist Charlie Mackesy, do your heart a service and check him out. His latest book Always Remember is the sequel to his first—The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, and the Horse—and like its predecessor, is a gorgeous combination of beautifully-minimalist illustrations and simple, yet profound life lessons on friendship, kindness and resiliency. The messages in Always Remember brought me to tears, and I bought three copies for my dearest friends for the holidays… and caved and gave one early to a friend who I thought could use its inspiration sooner. This book is a work of art, and a gorgeous gift for just about anyone on your list.

Shop for $18.88 for the hardcover book on Amazon, or visit Mackesy’s website for originals, prints, cards, and other gorgeous gifts.

Venustas Fleece Heated Vest and More

Venustas is a newer competitor to the heated clothing market that’s definitely worth a look. I’ve been wearing their women’s heated fleece vest all fall and have been thrilled with the quality and the fit. It’s more tapered and less boxy than others I’ve tried—the most flattering heated vest I’ve come across. In fall temps, it’s great as an outer layer on its own, or layer it under a heavier coat during the coldest weather. It has three heat settings, and the battery life is long; I cranked it to the highest setting for the bulk of a chilly campfire and it kept me warm all night. The heating elements all the way up the neck made a really toasty difference. The company also has heated sweatshirts, jackets, gloves, and socks, so they’ve got gift options in a variety of price ranges so you can check off lots of loved ones on your list!

Shop on venustas.com.

Art by Willow – Custom Embellished Horse Prints

How many of us would love to own—or to gift—a custom horse portrait but are hampered by the cost? Most of us? I met the lovely Willow Barnes at the All-American Quarter Horse Congress in Ohio and she’s come up with a genius, and gorgeous, way to cut the cost of a custom without sacrificing quality: embellished horse prints. Using photos of your horse, she selects a base print—high-quality prints of her own paintings—in the color that best matches your horse, then customizes it by hand, adding markings, matching colors, etc.

She took these chestnut base prints and customized them to my Palomino gelding, Moose, and they’re spot-on. Right now, her base prints are stock horse builds, but the reception she’s received to this idea has been so positive that she’s hoping to branch out to other breed types in the future. This would be a lovely gift for barn owners, trainers, or dear horse friends that they’ll cherish for years to come.

Starting at $111 on artbywillow.com.

Horse Education Company – Hybrid Halters

Horse Education Company is another company I’ve loved for a while. My bulldozer of a Fjord has had a HEC hybrid halter for years and I love the extra control from the front knots paired with the ease of regular halter features for things like leading and tying. We upgraded this fall to the Classic Leather Hybrid Halter ($136) with a custom name plate and matching lead, and—unsurprisingly—found it brought the same level of extra control in a stunning leather look with impeccable craftsmanship. This will definitely be our going-out-into-the-world halter, and would make a great gift for anyone who likes the added control of a rope halter with the ease of a traditional one.

Starting at $45 on shop.horseeducation.com. 

The Original Muck Boot Company – Women’s Arctic Sport II

I’ve been a big fan of Muck Boots for years, and was in need of some new tall, insulated winter boots for working around the barn. These Arctic Sport II’s are really comfortable and very warm, and their neoprene is totally muck-resistant. They’re soft and flexible right out of the box, and the top has extra stretch (in really cute plaids) to hug your calf and keep out the cold. I went trick-or-treating in them (with my son the astronaut and Penelope the rocket ship) the day they arrived and they were so comfortable for our 1+ mile walk. Now we’re knee-deep (almost literally) in mud-season and these are my go-to for morning chores through night check. Put these on your own wish lists this year!

Staring at $135 (dependent on height) on muckbootcompany.com. 

Kristen Kolenda Yoga for Equestrians – Monthly Membership

A unique, useful gift for the best of your barn friends just might be a monthly membership to Kristen Kolenda Yoga for Equestrians. You get so much from membership, including a comprehensive video library with over 100 videos (with new content added regularly) sorted into categories and lengths to fit a variety of needs. The video library includes everything from 5-minute mini-sessions to 75-minute intensive studies into different skills and focuses. And there’s something for the very newest yogis to more advanced students. There are also options for online live classes and an active and supportive online community. This gift would be perfect for a friend who could use a little zen, or who would be interested in exploring how the practice of yoga could positively impact their riding.

Sign up for $35/month here.

Melissa and Doug Take-Along Show Horse Stable

This simple little barn, with its wooden stable and eight colorful steeds has been a favorite of my 4-year-old son since he received it two Christmases ago. The littlest of hands will love sliding ponies in and out of their stalls (when you turn them around, they can peer out the barn window). Slightly older kiddos will love more imaginative play. And with the realistic colors and coat patterns like palomino, Paint, gray, Appaloosa, and more, you, too, can have a toddler who knows the difference between a chestnut and a bay! This is also a great addition to the lounge of any barn that caters to little kids.

Shop for $41.99 (currently on sale for $21.99) on Amazon.

Kiel James Patrick – Highland Fox Sweater and More

I’d been eyeing these wool-blend fox sweaters from Kiel James Patrick, wondering whether they were worth the hype and the price tag. Turns out they are! They’re high quality, the colors are gorgeous, and the wool is so soft and warm. They’ve got several fox options (pullover and cardigan-style sweaters) as well as some adorable fox socks, and a children’s line that’s just adorable. Their entire collection is worth a look.

Shop on kieljamespatrick.com.

This article about Small Business Saturday equestrian shopping is a web exclusive for Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

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And they came because they love horses.

Horses—and Donkeys—of All Kinds

Equine Affaire draws attendees and event participants from all over the United States, Canada, and beyond. And over 50 breeds of horses have participated in the various events at Equine Affaire, proudly represented by their national breed associations. The Breed Pavilion was buzzing as horse lovers got to meet and greet enchanting breeds, including the Arabian, Dales Pony, Icelandic, Gypsy Vanner, and many more.  

And this year introduced something special at Equine Affaire—the Donkey Extravaganza. You read that right: donkeys of exceptional cuteness were on hand for educational presentations. With those long ears and expressive eyes, they captivated young and old alike. Donkey lovers were delighted to shop from vendors catering to donkey-related products and services.  

Clinics, Seminars and Demonstrations

The educational opportunities are almost unlimited at Equine Affaire. With clinics, seminars and demonstrations running simultaneously all day in multiple arenas and stages, attendees strategically planned their schedule of events to attend. Clinics included show jumping foundations with Gaby Reutter, ranch riding with Cole Cameron, galloping techniques for eventing cross-county with Phyllis Dawson, classical dressage principles, trailer loading techniques, the basics of saddle fitting, caring for feathers, and even the chance to drive a Whispery Pines Percheron. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg!

On Thursday afternoon, Kimberly Chick—British Equestrian Trade Association (BETA)-certified helmet and safety vest fitter and owner of Fair Hill Saddlery—presented a clinic on selecting and fitting a safety vest. Safety vests and airbag vests are advanced gear designed to add an extra layer of protection.

“Every rider and handler of a horse is subject to injury—from the ground, mounted, loading, literally anything. And a safety vest protects our vital organs and bones,” Chick explained.

But choosing the right vest and having it professionally fitted is critical.

“There’s a big difference between a 65-year-old trail rider and a 30-year-old eventer,” Chick explains. The discipline and rider’s goals help Chick choose the right vest for a rider, ensuring it isn’t too high above the rib cage or sitting too low on the back.

Chick’s expert tips to selecting a vest: “Buy the highest level of BETA certification that fits you the best and that your budget allows. Your body is worth the investment.”

On Friday, Lori Tankel, author of Common Sense Horse Keeping, presented the clinic “Disaster Planning for Horse Owners: How to Be Prepared for the Unexpected.” Tankel stressed how crucial it is for horse owners and barn managers to take seriously disaster preparedness.

“It’s just as important to have a disaster plan as it is to have a fire plan… It will help you deal with disaster challenges in a calm and organized manner,” Tankel said. “Take ownership of your disaster plan—identify potential disasters, put it in writing, post it in the barn, provide a copy to boarders and staff, and then drill it often. Your goal is to ID your horse, load him, and evacuate as quickly as possible. Can you board your horse in any condition, at any time? His life may depend on it.” 

On Saturday morning, Ken McNabb presented the clinic “Overcoming Trail Obstacles: Teaching Your Horse to Have Confidence on the Trail Course.” McNabb explained that “once your horse’s confidence is in you, he will do anything… the more difficult a situation, the quicker you build the relationship with your horse, teaching him to trust you in all situations. You can’t stop your horse from spooking, but you can shape how you will handle it.”

For example, overreacting to a horse that is spooking at a tarp by yelling, kicking, or otherwise trying to force him to go over it will only reinforce the “danger” of the tarp. “Take the fear out, relax, look at the tarp, release, look at it again, release; take the time needed to build the horse’s confidence,” McNabb shared. “My goal is not to desensitize my horse. I want my horse sensitive, but I want to build his emotional control, allowing him to discover he has more courage than fear.” 

Equine Affaire’s Ride With a Pro program is a unique experience that allows riders and horses to take a lesson directly from nationally recognized professionals in various disciplines. Riders pushed down any lingering nerves and quickly realized this was their chance to soak up expert advice.  

Jane Karol’s clinic “Classical Dressage: Developing the Horse & Rider at Training and First Level” focused on building a language of trust with your horse, how tiny adjustments can make a big impact, and why going back to the basics of Training and First Level exercises shouldn’t be underestimated.

“Softer hands [are] fundamental in a smooth walk to canter transition,” Karol said. She stressed “teaching the horse that the leg doesn’t mean go faster, but to go in a more balanced way” and that the “seemingly simple exercise—trot, canter, trot, canter—is a fantastic exercise for riders at every level.”   

Versatile Horse & Rider Competition   

One of the most popular events took place on Friday afternoon in the Coliseum—Equine Affaire’s Versatile Horse & Rider Competition—with Equine Affaire’s favorite emcee, Noah Rattner, and this year’s judge, Jason Irwin. Horse and rider teams were judged on how well they raced through an obstacle course which included pulling a sled, balancing on bridges, bubble wands, a bear, working a gate, a teeter-totter, jumps, and much more. The challenging course tested communication and horsemanship skills. With $5,500 in cash and other prizes on the line, the competition really heated up. 

Adoption at Equine Affaire

 The ASPCA Right Horse Adoption Affaire, along with other equine adoption organizations, spent the event introducing people to healthy, desirable, and deserving horses and donkeys in hopes of finding new loving homes. At Equine Affaire in Ohio in April 2025, 30 horses were adopted. Unable to adopt in person at Equine Affaire? Visit myrighthorse.org to meet adoptable equines across the United States.  

Fantasia 

This unforgettable “musical celebration of the horse” combines inspiring music, outstanding choreography, talented equestrians, and exceptional horses that come together in an uplifting and memorable performance. Fantasia is the perfect way to end a day at Equine Affaire!    

The Vital Role of Equine Affaire Volunteers

Equine Affaire is a complicated affair with moving parts and people working tirelessly behind the scenes to make it a success—including the many volunteers who return year after year. Equine Affaire HR & Business Manager, Lori Helsel, is the guiding force behind engaging and managing the 75 volunteers needed throughout the four-day event, with each volunteer working multiple shifts a day. Volunteers with big smiles greet and hand out event programs at the entrance gates, assist clinic prop crews with setup during educational programs, help customers drop off items to be sold at the Marketplace Consignment, assist youth in the Equine Fundamentals Forum and popular “Stick Horse Rodeo,” coordinate crowd control during horse rotations in the Breed Pavilion, and work as ushers at Fantasia. 

“The assistance of volunteers in fulfilling these duties is invaluable,” Helsel explained. “One of the things I appreciate most is the passion and enthusiasm our volunteers display. It’s infectious and elevates the energy and enjoyment for attendees, exhibitors, and everyone they meet.”  

Some Equine Affaire volunteers have made it a family affair. Pam Heffernan and her daughter Tracy Bowman have been volunteering together for seventeen years. “I think my favorite thing is just being able to spend four days with my mom,” Bowman said. “I’m obsessed with horses so any reason to be around horses and horse people I’ll jump at. But more than anything, it’s the people. We work with them only for four days out of the year, but we’ve known them for so long that they become like family.”  

“It gives us something to look forward to every year,” Heffernan added. “I really enjoy working with kids in the youth pavilion, making the stick horses, and keeping the area organized.”   

Don’t miss your chance to celebrate the horses we all love. Start planning now for the next Equine Affaire, happening in Columbus, Ohio April 9-12, 2026. Learn more here.

This article about Equine Affaire Massachusetts 2025 is a web exclusive for Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

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Think Outside the Gift Box

Inflation and increased cost of living is no joke, which makes it all the more important to be resourceful where gift-giving is concerned. When it comes to equestrians, you can never go wrong with a present you know they’ll use.

You could consider a gift of support, enrichment, or wellness. A friend on a tight budget may be lacking something just for herself these days. Additionally, personalized keepsake gifts are something that can be cherished for years.

Supportive Suggestions

Here are some ideas to get your creative gift-giving juices flowing:

◆ A gift card to a feed or tack store, or even a credit at a vet’s office or boarding facility. Every horse owner would appreciate these!

◆ If you’re on a budget, create a coupon book with clever ways to be of service, such as an offer to clean stalls, groom, or horse-sit so your equestrian friend can take a little time off.

◆ Meals are a great way to nourish and nurture, especially in the cooler months. Prepare some hearty, easy heat-up meals for the busy equestrian. A bowl of hot soup, stew, or a breakfast casserole are welcome after freezing winter barn chores. To bump it up a notch, a month (or more) membership for boxed meal deliveries—such as Blue Apron, Hello Fresh, or similar—can brighten someone’s winter menu and save them from having to plan meals and make trips to the grocery store. Hint: Most services offer a variety of options, such as vegetarian, family-friendly, lower-calorie, and quick prep.

◆ Horse owners work hard and enjoy pampering, such as a gift certificate for a massage, a restorative yoga class, or a spa day.

◆ Gift ideas for equestrian wellness could include a journal or an equestrian planner book to help with goals and/or intention-setting. Yoga sessions with an instructor who focuses on yoga for riders can also be supportive of physical and mental fitness.

◆ The gift of learning, such as a gift certificate to a horsemanship clinic, equine expo, or an online course is a unique way to give.

◆ Enrichment through travel and light adventure is another way to give creatively if you’re financially able. Fund or contribute to a retreat experience, a weekend at a dude ranch, or a getaway to an equestrian trade show.

◆ If tangible gifts are more your style, consider an equestrian book, a sturdy pair of warm barn boots, heated gloves, or maybe some fresh lead ropes and halters. Stocking stuffers could include inexpensive hand and boot warmers, or perhaps an insulated mug or reusable water bottle for the barn.

◆ Since most reading is done online these days, it can feel like a treat to get a subscription to an equestrian magazine. Receiving it by mail all year is a great reminder of your friendship.

◆ Personalized keepsakes can be very meaningful. Imagine how much you’d love a framed photograph or poster of your horse, or a professional painting or drawing. Picture books are easy to create online with platforms such as Shutterfly, and they make for a great coffee table book. After my heart horse passed, I was given a beautifully inscribed windchime to remind me of him every time it chimes—I just love it!

Give from the Heart

Gift-giving can be big or small. As long as it’s heart-centered, that’s all that matters. It’s important to stay true to your budget and not have the burden of paying off debt long after the holidays. Your family and genuine friends will understand. Remember, it’s OK to keep it simple, and your horsey friends will appreciate the sentiment.

Wishing you and your equines a beautiful holiday season!

This article about equestrian holiday gift ideas appeared in the November/December 2024 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post Holiday Gift Ideas for Equestrians appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Welcome to Barn Banter, the official podcast of Horse Illustrated. In Barn Banter episode 37, hosts Susan Friedland and Horse Illustrated Editor In Chief Holly Caccamise chat with Coagi Long, president and owner of Equine Affaire.

To end the episode, Susan and Holly chat with Simon d’Unienville of Healing Heroes Through Horsemanship about Win Often (“Whinny”), Sweetheart, and Virulente (FR) (“Violet”), this month’s ASPCA Right Horse adoptable horses.

Click here to listen on mobile.

Coagi Long, President & Owner of Equine Affaire

Coagi Long, president and owner of Equine Affaire, Inc. has more than 20 years of experience with the company in a variety of areas. She joined Equine Affaire in 2003 as a member of the marketing department, where she facilitated numerous promotional projects. She also served as Program Director, and Vice President & Executive Producer between 2006 and 2018.

Coagi now manages the production elements of each event, supervises the day-to-day operations of Equine Affaire, Inc., organizes the extensive program of clinics, seminars, and demonstrations, and coordinates the Fantasia performers and production for each Equine Affaire.

Coagi graduated summa cum laude from the University of Findlay, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree with a dual major in marketing and equestrian studies and a minor in operations and logistics management. With a love for riding and training since her early childhood, she has primarily concentrated on dressage and hunt seat. While at Findlay, she earned several awards, including three consecutive Intercollegiate Hunt Seat National Championship titles and 2003 Intercollegiate Dressage Association Reserve National Champion. Coagi is a member of the United States Dressage Federation and the United States Equestrian Federation. She continues to pursue her competitive career in dressage and trains Warmbloods at her farm in West Mansfield, Ohio.

◆ The Equine Affaire Website
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◆ Follow Equine Affaire on Instagram

Adoptable Horse of the Month from Healing Heroes Through Horsemanship

Win Often (“Whinny”)

After 12 starts on the track, with an impressive 9 podium finishes, Whinny retired to a well-earned second career as a broodmare. Now, after raising several lovely foals, this striking and intelligent mare is back under saddle and easing into light work in both English and western tack. She’s the type who knows her job and prefers to take things at her own pace.

Whinny is happiest in a quiet, consistent environment with minimal fuss — enjoying the simple things like turnout time with friends and leisurely trail rides with a calm rider she trusts. She’s not one for endless drilling or pampering sessions, but she appreciates calm, kind handling and clear boundaries.

Her ideal home is one where she can live outdoors most of the time, whether in a small herd or larger group pasture, with someone who values companionship over performance. She would make a wonderful pasture partner, light trail companion, or gentle riding horse for an experienced novice to intermediate who appreciates a mare with personality.

Learn more about Win Often (“Whinny”) here.

Sweetheart

Sweetheart is a 2018 mare whose name truly says it all. After just three starts on the track, it was clear that racing wasn’t her calling. But with her excellent bloodlines and kind temperament, she transitioned naturally into a successful broodmare career, raising three beautiful foals.

Now back under saddle, Sweetheart is showing a willing attitude and a calm, steady nature as she begins her retraining in both English and western tack. She takes each new experience in stride and continues to grow in confidence with consistent handling and patient guidance.

With her conformation, elegant movement, and easygoing disposition, Sweetheart has the potential to shine in a variety of disciplines, whether that’s hunter/jumper, English or western pleasure, trail or more.

True to her name, she’s gentle, level-headed, and a pleasure to have in the barn. She gets along well in a herd, stands quietly for the vet and farrier, and enjoys attention without being pushy. Sweetheart is the kind of mare who makes every day a little brighter — soft-natured, willing, and ready to make someone very happy in her next chapter.

Learn more about Sweetheart here.

Virulente (FR) (“Violet”)

Violet is a 2019 mare with an impressive international background and all the elegance you’d expect from her Irish lineage. Born, raised, and started under saddle in France, she showed early talent on the track, earning five in-the-money finishes in just nine starts and breaking her maiden with a win before being imported to California.

After retiring from racing, Violet produced two lovely foals and is now beginning her transition back under saddle. Though still early in her retraining, she’s already showing glimpses of natural balance, scope, and athleticism that suggest real promise for a future in eventing or other sport horse disciplines.

Violet combines refined conformation with a smart, forward-thinking temperament. She’s curious, willing, and enjoys having a job, making her a rewarding prospect for someone who appreciates a talented mare with both class and character.

With her strong European bloodlines, quality movement, and eager attitude, Violet is poised to make an exceptional partner for an experienced rider looking to develop a versatile and athletic prospect.

Learn more about Virulente (FR) (“Violet”) here.

In addition to Barn Banter episode 37, you can check out all previous episodes of Horse Illustrated’s podcasts here.

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Castle Leslie

With just a week available, I had to make the most out of every day. After spending a day recovering from jetlag and catching up with friends, it was off to Castle Leslie in County Monaghan. Located on the border of Northern Ireland, this was a perfect couple of days of horse-themed luxury.

I rented a car for the week, and while I adjusted pretty quickly to driving on the left-hand side of the road and shifting gears with my left hand, train service is available for anyone who doesn’t want the added stress of navigating the country roads by car.

The castle has an illustrious family history, and offers several options for accommodations. If you really want to make a splash, you can stay in the castle proper, or if you’d prefer more peace and quiet, the Old Stable Mews are located far out back on the property.

Most people interested in riding will be content to stay in The Lodge, which is connected to the stables and features the upscale Snaffles restaurant, drinks at Connor’s Pub, and a spa for relaxing after time in the saddle.

I arranged the trip to Castle Leslie through Unicorn Trails Horse Riding Holidays Worldwide, and the reservation process was easy and well managed. Every detail of the trip was smoothly planned in advance, and checking in at The Lodge was an easy process. The accommodations were well equipped and exceedingly comfortable. It was a huge highlight that the small balcony overlooked the stable yard.

My kids were heading back to school that week, but airfare from New Jersey to Ireland drops significantly in September: my flight was about $400, compared to over $1,000 in August.

My non-horsey husband agreed to deal with the back-to-school week so I could enjoy an adventure with my old friend, George Barry, who I’ve known since we were teenagers, when he and his sister and my brother competed in the International Tetrathlon exchange through Pony Club back in the late 1990s.

We’d traveled together before, and he’s a competent rider, and since riding is a high-risk sport—and so is driving a car in Ireland—I felt a little safer traveling with a companion.

Cross-Country Jumping

After settling in, we stretched our legs with a wander around the grounds and the castle. That evening we enjoyed an elegant six-course dinner at Snaffles. The food was delicious, featuring mainly locally sourced, fresh ingredients, and the service was impeccable. After dinner, we wandered out the door to the stables and admired the facilities and horses before retiring for the evening.

The full Irish breakfast the next morning was equally as impressive as dinner, if not more so. There was also an impressive array of fresh fruit, pastries and other breakfast items that left me wishing my appetite was larger. But with our horses waiting, I reined in my appetite. After changing into boots and breeches, we headed out to the stables.

The horses were fit and well cared for, and the borrowed helmets and cross-country vests were in good condition and up to the latest safety standards. I rode a gorgeous big gray mare named Blueberry, while George was on a stout gelding named Arnie. I’m 5’11”, and Blueberry took up my leg nicely. There were horses of all shapes and sizes, for riders of all shapes, sizes and levels of experience. A questionnaire in advance made sure that we met our ideal match.

Our instructor, Steven Carty, performed a brief assessment before we set off across the countryside. Steven was lovely and we chatted about the horses, the lifestyle working at the stables, and the history of the estate. If we’d had another night, I would have enjoyed sitting down with him for a pint at Connor’s Pub.

The jumps were on the small side, but since we were both out of practice, it was perfect. The cross-country course is extensive, but since we only had one day, we kept things simple, and the horses clearly knew the drill.

Next, we made our way to the corner of the lake, where we could jump in and out from a small bank or down a series of steps. Splashing through the lake with the castle in the background felt like a scene from a fairytale.

A walk in the woods that afternoon left me wishing we had more time to explore the estate. It was a peaceful way to wrap up our short visit, as the grounds and gardens are just as beautiful as the buildings.

The Wild Atlantic Way

I would have happily spent a week at the castle living the life of luxury, but our next stop would bring plenty of fun adventures. (In fact, if I were to do the trip again, I’d arrange to head to the castle after the beach).

A couple hours’ drive west to County Mayo brought us to the small coastal town of Westport, a scenic village set on the calm, clear waters of Clew Bay. The bay is home to a number of tiny islands—“one for every day of the year”—and set in the shadow of Croagh Patrick, the mountain where Saint Patrick is said to have driven the snakes from Ireland.

This segment of the trip was organized by Ireland Equestrian Tours and operated by Go Trekking Ireland. Laura Lamb of Ireland Equestrian Tours sent a number of brochures over with information about the various options, and the Wild Atlantic Way seemed a good fit for a bit of adventure and beach riding after our cross-country schooling up in County Monaghan.

We stayed at George’s uncle John’s house on the way, and got an early start to Westport so that we could be out riding early, before the tide came in. We met the proprietor of the Westport Woods Hotel, Michael Lennon, who took us to his stables to select our horses for a beach ride. I chose a tall, athletic and solidly built chestnut hunter type named Coady, while George rode a gray named Naymar.

Beach Ride to Remember

We followed the horsebox to a spot where we unloaded and mounted up. Four of us set off across the bay. Our guide, Joanne Mason, was on a smaller cob who was fairly submerged in some of the deeper water crossings, so I was glad to be on a long-legged sport horse!

Eventually we ended up on Bertra Strand, where we had a good gallop on the beach and then rode out on a grassy headland overlooking a couple of large islands. After clattering over a stony section, we came to another beach where we rode out in the waves, before crossing back over to Bertra Strand for another good gallop in the shadow of Croagh Patrick. By the time we wrapped up our antics, the tide had come in, so we picked our way around the bay and back to the horsebox.

After riding, we stopped at a local pub for a truly Irish experience: drinking a pint in front of a peat fire. While harvesting peat is banned in much of the country, some locals are still allowed to harvest a limited amount using ancient methods, and the particular smoky atmosphere in the pub evoked a bygone era.

At Michael’s suggestion, we spent the afternoon at Ballinrobe Races, about 45 minutes south. It was the final meet of the season and there was a good crowd out for the racing. This was a fun way to see another aspect of the Irish horse industry and enjoy the excitement of placing a few small bets. I braved the bookies and bet a couple of Euros on two winning horses, bringing home around 40 Euros and a slightly inflated sense of my ability to judge a winning horse.

That evening, we settled on the Westway Pub in downtown Westport for a bite to eat. The food was fresh and simple and the atmosphere smart but casual. I’d hoped to stop in to listen to the traditional music at another pub up the street, but with another day of riding planned, opted for an early bedtime instead.

Surfing Beach

The next morning the horses were hauled to Carrownisky Strand, a popular surfing beach a half-hour or so down the road. It was a gorgeous, sunny day and a little surreal unloading the horses in a sandy parking area populated mainly by surfers and families taking their kids to the beach for the day.

We made a bit of a spectacle, galloping on the wide, sandy beach, which is the home to an annual horse race. The horses were eager to go and we were all too happy to oblige, with sea spray splashing in our grinning faces.

To cool the horses out, we hacked to the nearby Bunlahinch Clapper Footbridge, the largest complete clapper bridge in Ireland, at 50 meters long. Its 37 arches are constructed in a primitive style, each made of flat limestone slabs, and likely dates to the 1840s.

On the way back, we walked past cow pastures and bogs where sheep were grazing on the verdant grass, later taking another lively canter down the beach. The horses were very fit and had plenty in the tank to give another good run.

Mountain Ride

The original plan was to do the mountain ride the following day, but with stormy weather in the forecast, I opted to join a group going out that afternoon. After a short rest at the hotel, I headed back to the stables with Michael and an American woman and her daughter who had just arrived on holiday. (George had taken an unplanned dismount into the saltwater on our beach ride and wasn’t keen to go on a three-hour ride in soaking wet clothing, so he stayed behind and had a stroll around the town).

I was on Coady once again, and we rode directly from the stables and enjoyed a long, leisurely hack to the base of the mountain. Other than an easy canter up a long gravel track, this ride maintained a leisurely pace and was a good opportunity to take in views of the peat bog, the mountain, and sweeping views of Clew Bay, following narrow lanes winding over hills and through little valleys past cottages and farms.

That evening, we walked from the hotel to the Quay for dinner at the Towers Pub, a little more upscale than the previous evening’s location. Following Joanne’s recommendation, we followed dinner with pink gin cocktails garnished with strawberries at the Coast Hotel across the street. It was charming and refreshing and a nice accompaniment to the live music featured that evening.

All too soon, it was time to head to the airport, return the trusty rental car and fly home.

◆ Amber’s Packing Tips and List for an Irish Riding Holiday

This article about a horseback riding holiday in Ireland appeared in the November/December 2024 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post A Horseback Riding Holiday in Ireland appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Welcome to Barn Banter, the official podcast of Horse Illustrated. In Barn Banter episode 36, hosts Susan Friedland and Horse Illustrated Editor In Chief Holly Caccamise chat with Gideon Kotkowski of Horse People Podcast. Plus, tune in as they talk with sponsored guest Jackie Jolie of EquiSol.

To end the episode, Susan and Holly chat with Amanda Tucker of New Vocations Racehorse Adoption Program about Dennison Girls (AKA Denise), this month’s ASPCA Right Horse adoptable horse.

Click here to listen on mobile.

Gideon Kotkowski of Horse People Podcast

Gideon Kotkowski is the host of the Horse People Podcast, where he explores cross-discipline stories from the equestrian world. From authors to entrepreneurs, artists to farriers, veterinarians to professional athletes, his conversations highlight the passion, grit, and creativity that connect everyday horse people. The show resonates with anyone who believes that horses shape not only how we ride, but also how we live.

Gideon’s own background began in polo, where he developed a deep respect for the partnership between horse and rider. That foundation carried him into the Mongol Derby—the world’s longest and toughest horse race—where he tested his horsemanship and endurance across the vast steppes of Mongolia. He finished among the top competitors and was awarded the coveted Spirit of the Derby, the highest honor given to a rider.

When not in the saddle or behind the microphone, Gideon works in the tech industry, helping companies measure, report, and reduce their carbon emissions.

◆ Listen to Horse People Podcast on Apple Podcasts
◆ Listen to Horse People Podcast on Spotify
◆ Follow Horse People Podcast on Instagram

Sponsored Guest: Jackie Jolie of EquiSol

Meet Jackie Jolie, whose lifelong dedication to animals, especially horses, led her to a distinguished career in equine and canine bodywork. With a Bachelor’s in Equine Health and Rehabilitation, Jackie’s 15-year journey has been shaped by her belief in natural healing processes. Her personal turning point came in 2018 after a diagnosis of Lyme disease, which she overcame through natural treatments and learning all about quantum healing through light, water, and magnetism. Getting certified in Quantum Biology to be able to learn on a deeper level along with using red and infrared light therapy during her recovery led her to a bigger mission. This experience, along with her professional observations, inspired the creation of EquiSol and DogSol: red/infrared light therapy blankets for animals. Jackie’s vision for EquiSol transcends animal healthcare; it’s about enlightening others on the transformative effects of light on overall wellness.

◆ EquiSol Website
◆ Follow EquiSol on Facebook
◆ Follow EquiSol on Instagram

Adoptable Horse of the Month, Dennison Girls (AKA Denise)

Meet Dennison Girls (AKA Denise) a 4-year-old off-the-track Thoroughbred mare. Located in Lexington, Ky., Denise is available for adoption for a non-riding second career as a part of New Vocations’ Pasture Potatoes program for companion Thoroughbreds.

Denise leads well in a plain halter and lead rope. She is forward-thinking while leading, but listens very well to correction and will happily follow us around on a loopy lead. She would prefer to walk over logs and bridges, but is not pushy when asked to stand still, either.

Denise is happiest outside with her friends. She is quiet in her stall but can get antsy in the crossties. Like many former racehorses, Denise does well being groomed tied to the wall of her stall.

Denise is barefoot and eats our normal grain ration. She lives outside full-time in a herd of mares and is very easy to manage.

Learn more about Denise here.

In addition to Barn Banter episode 36, you can check out all previous episodes of Horse Illustrated’s podcasts here.

The post Barn Banter – Episode 36 appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Now secured in crossties, Blackie tried to stand still, but he could not help himself from twisting his lithe body ever so slightly left to right, assessing all that was going on around him. Meanwhile, I gently stroked his supple neck and massaged his firm withers as I spoke softly into his furry ears and kissed his velvety muzzle. With these small gestures, I wanted to see if I could build my own bond with him, to observe if, with time, he might respond to and trust me like he did Gail. Quickly realizing that there was an immediate connection, Gail embraced the opportunity, saying, “Would you like to try Blackie? He moves as good as he looks.” 

Of course, I wanted to ride him, but in refusing to acknowledge this instinctive impulse, I clung to some semblance of my rational self and respectfully declined the generous offer.  

“Thank you, Gail, but no, not today,” I said. “I don’t have that ‘I’m ready to jump on a racehorse’ frame of mind.” 

Even though Blackie had already gripped my imagination, I held back from mounting him upon that spur-of-the-moment invitation, because I was afraid of this undeveloped prospect, unsure that I should or could accept such a splendid dare. While concerned about compatibility, I was mostly preoccupied with where such a big step might lead me. Before experiencing that closest of rapports between horses and humans that riding represents, I needed to pause, to ask myself if I should curb my quickening fancy and first consider the implications of a spirited horse like Blackie. Would he be too much for me? On many levels? Could I handle him? Could I train him? I pondered privately. Most importantly, though, I wondered, Could I manage him and my demanding job at the same time? What if this capricious creature upset all that I had struggled to establish as a professional woman, risking the mighty foundation I had built up for myself and into which I had cemented my very identity?  

On the heels of these trifling rationalizations, I closed the matter at hand by saying to Gail, “While I don’t believe Twinkles is a match for me, please give me some time to think about Blackie, as you consider whether you really want to let him go.” 

Unconsciously, I must have known that mounting him then and there would have ripped open a floodgate of repressed emotions that I was unprepared to confront. But those hidden feelings were precisely the secret sentiments Gary was hoping I would tap back into by having a horse in my life again, convinced that any Sturm und Drang unleashed by this magnificent 1,200-pound ball of pure energy would be temporary and, in the end, all for the good. He simply paid no mind to my inner conflict about this whole horse thing. Instead, he capitalized on the fact that, ever since stepping foot in the barn at Altamira Ranch, I had been eyeing this mysterious black beauty. 

Naturally intuitive, Gail sensed the tug-of-war going on inside me and leapt at another chance to steer me toward Blackie. 

“I know Thoroughbreds can be intimidating,” she said. “They’re a lot of horse, but once you understand them, they’re truly the best.”  

Gail found herself encouraging my nascent attraction, because, if she had to part with her Blackie, she wanted to place him with someone like me who revealed an instant affinity, however much I was trying to deny it. Assuring her that we would be in touch again soon, Gary and I took our leave, and as we headed to our car, I looked back over my shoulder and saw Blackie’s eyes fixed on me. 

While retracing our path back over the Santa Ynez Mountains to our home in the Santa Barbara foothills, we each quietly considered our day’s adventure. The lulling sound of the car’s pliant tires rolling against the hard asphalt filled the tranquil space between us. For me, this rare excursion together had been a refreshing change of pace from my normal workaholic grind, and I enjoyed the sense of calm it brought. As it turns out, though, it was short-lived. 

When we approached home, winding slowly up toward Rattlesnake Canyon on narrow, curving roads bordered with gnarled oaks and craggy boulders, Gary broke our silent musings. Being a decisive person, he simply stated, “I think you’ve found your horse. Search no further!” 

“What!? Why do you say that? What makes you so sure?” I shot back defensively, fearing deep down that he might be right.  

“Well, for starters, he’s smart and good-looking. And it’s about time you had someone like that in your life,” Gary quipped. Smiling wide now, he added, “There’s already some kind of woman-horse communication thing going on between the two of you. It just seems like love at first sight. Put it this way: if you ever looked at another man the way you looked at that horse, I would know the marriage was over!” 

Laughing under my breath, I had to confess, “Yes! Blackie’s definitely in my head, and more importantly in my heart, but he’s so green.”  

Gary quickly countered, intent on influencing my deliberations, “His naiveté is not a detriment. Think of his rawness and need for attention as assets. Even I can tell he’s a force of nature, but by bringing him into your life, you will help him while also finding a healthy kind of absorption. You desperately need that. Something good and wholesome but also challenging to check your obsession with work.” As I let Gary’s words sink in, he gently pressed one last time. “Call Gail and get on his back and see what you think, before she changes her mind or someone else grabs him.” 

Pre-order Fur Mama here.

This excerpt from Fur Mama by Diana Dupont is reprinted with permission from Trafalgar Square Books.

The post An Excerpt from Fur Mama appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Could you do the same?

Equine Clipping Business

Originally from Long Island, N.Y., 34-year-old Kristen Abano was a horse girl who majored in communications and English. After college, she worked in office administration at Cornell Ruffian Equine Specialists in Elmont, N.Y., for a year before relocating to south Florida. Eager to be more hands-on in the equine industry, Abano began working as a veterinary technician at Palm Beach Equine Clinic in Wellington, Fla.

“Once I got into vet med, I thought that would be where I’d work the rest of my life,” she says. “That was my dream job at the time, but the burnout is real in that industry. Toward the end of my time as a vet tech, I started doing some grooming [for private clients]. When I left the clinic in early 2020, I started my own business as a professional groom and made it a legal operating entity in 2021.”

It took three years for Centerline Equine Clipping to create full-time income, but the business has doubled every year. Her own horse, Ace, a Haflinger/Quarter Horse cross, models for her business marketing photos.

Centrally located near the show horse hub of Wellington, Fla., Abano is able to service south and southwest Florida. She works on everything from six-figure show horses to the 40-year-old backyard pony.

“Body clipping is not just about aesthetics; some horses need this medically,” says Abano. “Take Cushing’s horses, for example: I have these on a four- to six-week schedule to stay ahead of their coat growth, otherwise they may develop further health complications.”

While most of her business is body clipping, Abano offers plenty of other services, including sheath cleaning, mane tidying, private client grooming for shows, and preparing horses for photo sessions.

“Photoshoot prep is one of my favorite services,” she says, noting that she can do all the grooming and hand over an immaculate photo-ready horse, or stay for the duration of the shoot to help with details and getting ears up.

“My favorite part of what I do is getting horses to look and feel their best,” she adds.

Working Thoroughbred Sales

In 2023, an amazing 14,462 Thoroughbreds sold at public auction in North America for gross receipts of $1.2 billion. The average price per horse was $86,114.

Consignors who sell horses at these auctions routinely hire workers who specialize in preparing and handling horses at the sales. The most talented are able to work sales exclusively, rather than working on farms. On average, these consignors pay sales workers $250 to $300 per day.

Giovanni (Gio) Garcia, 31, of Little Village, Ind., has built a reputation as a top hand and makes a living working the country’s biggest Thoroughbred sales.

Garcia wasn’t raised with horses, but he’s consistently worked in the equine industry since starting as a groom at Tampa Bay Downs in 2012.

“I started coming to Ocala and working as an exercise rider and groom on a farm,” says Garcia. “Someone asked me about working sales and told me I could make more money doing that.”

He experienced this firsthand in 2020 when he worked for Claiborne Farm at the Keeneland yearling sale in Lexington, Ky. It was there Garcia found his niche. Since then, he’s been hired by sales consignors to work at Thoroughbred sales in Florida, Kentucky, Maryland and New York.

“I go wherever the horses go,” says Garcia.

During the longest sales, he may be away from home 16 days at a stretch. Once the horses ship in, the days are long and intense with no time off until the sale ends.

Whether he’s tacking up and wrapping the legs of a 2-year-old before a breeze show (where buyers get to watch the horse have a timed workout on the track before the auction) or showing rambunctious yearlings to prospective buyers, Garcia’s focus is always making sure the horses look their best.

“Whether it’s cold, raining, or hot, I love what I do,” he says. “I love horses and I’m paid to do something I love.”

Paul Sharp, one of the industry’s top 2-year-old consigners, sees Garcia’s passion.

“He’s reliable, knowledgeable, communicates well, and has a good touch. He definitely has a passion for the horses.” Ocala-based Sharp has hired Garcia to work all of his consignments since 2021.

As Sharp explains, an experienced hand like Garcia understands what’s at stake with the big sales and pays close attention to detail.

When he’s not working a sale, Garcia is home spending time with his family—his wife Courtney and their almost 2-year-old son, Giovanni Jr.

“He loves horses and already has a pony,” Garcia says with a smile.

Supplement Business

When Jerry Miller was a young man cowboying in Wyoming, he never imagined owning an equine supplement company.

Raised in Sheridan, Wyo., Miller went into the U.S. Navy after graduating high school. After serving his country, he moved to Seattle and worked as a welder for 12 years.

Miller then earned his mechanical engineering degree and moved to Idaho after graduating college in 2002. For the next 15 years, he traveled across the U.S. working as a consulting engineer for a company that built food and beverage processing systems.

“Between my ranching, welding and engineering experience, I was able to come up with new ways for my clients to make money,” says Miller. “I was always on the lookout for a way I could be my own boss.”

That opportunity came in 2019, when Miller wrote an engineering proposal for a nearby CBD oil extraction lab. The owner ended up hiring Miller as the production manager to design and run his extraction lab in Oregon.

“I learned everything I could about the product and processing it,” says Miller.

When he realized the company threw away the hemp after extracting the CBD oil to use in human products, he sent samples for testing. When the results came in, his entrepreneurial mind started spinning.

Testing revealed the hemp contained no THC, but was rich in 18 amino acids that fuel hoof, bone, skin and hair growth, repair muscle, manage weight, and help mental focus, among numerous other benefits.

After doing a trial with horse-owning friends and seeing how readily horses ate it, Miller knew he had a viable product. From there, it was a matter of researching the best way to dry the hemp, grind it, and process it into a supplement.

Miller officially launched Remount on May 1, 2020, during the early days of the pandemic. His company is registered in Idaho and his production shop is located across the border in Ontario, Ore.

Remount is a 100 percent hemp amino acid CBD equine health supplement. It contains 18 vital amino acids, including lysine, methionine, leucine, and more. The supplement is available in both powder and pellet form.

“I put some money in the business to get it rolling, but it was paying for itself by the second year and became profitable by year three,” says Miller. “I’ve seen a 30 to 40 percent increase in sales since 2021.”

In addition to selling online through Remount’s website, Miller has the supplement in eight retail locations in five states, and he has 12 distributors in 10 states.

This fall, he is heading south in his fifth wheel to spend the entire winter in Arizona, doing vendor booths at horse events from November through March.

Advice for Making an Equine Career Happen

Do you have what it takes to launch a career in the equine world?

“There are many ways you can make a living working with horses,” says Abano. “Find what you’re good at and figure out how to make money at it. Make sure it’s something you enjoy and are passionate about. If you’re offering a service, you have to love it.”

Miller recommends researching first.

“Find something no one else is doing and go for it,” he says.

If you’re marketing a product, be prepared to give away samples in the first year to get people to try it. Sponsoring good competitors who use your product also helps get the word out.

For obvious reasons, location matters if you’re offering a service. For example, Abano’s proximity to Wellington and her ability to travel in south Florida set up her business for success.

During show season in Idaho, Miller has a vendor booth at the Ford Idaho Center in Nampa, which hosts many shows and equine events, allowing him to showcase his product to horse people from a variety of states and different breeds.

Next, don’t skimp on appearances. A professional website is crucial when you’re launching a business. Miller says “before and after” photos of horses using his supplement have really helped promote Remount.

Finally, take advantage of social media and make the most of your connections.

“Wahl reached out to me after having followed my social media for a few months and asked me if I would be interested in joining their Pro Equine team,” says Abano. “Professionally, having this credential behind my name makes my business more competitive and marketable.” She is now a Wahl ambassador and educator who exclusively uses Wahl Animal products.

“I have consistent sales in over 25 states,” says Miller. “I couldn’t have gotten sales in some of those states without social media. I do a lot myself and have 15 to 20 sponsored competitors who talk about the brand on social media.”

This article about niche equine jobs appeared in the October 2024 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

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It’s important to have a great trainer to learn the fundamentals of good horsemanship and riding, and also a good support team (farrier, veterinarian, et cetera) for a horse’s physical wellness. But what about a horse’s emotional wellness or spiritual connection?

Horses are great feelers. As sentient beings, they have emotions like we do, and feel love, joy, gratitude, and connection with each other and with us. They can also feel anger, frustration, fear, and sadness based on current life circumstances or past traumatic events.

As prey animals, we know they easily move between sympathetic (fight, flight, freeze) and parasympathetic (rest and digest) states.

Clearing Stuck Emotions

As a trained animal communicator, I find it’s very helpful to be a part of a horse parent’s support team when it comes to enhancing their horse’s emotional fitness. We often focus on just the physical nature of the horse, and yet there is a great mind-body connection that also needs to be addressed.

I’ve found in many sessions that behavioral issues are linked to emotions that need to be acknowledged and released. I’m grateful for my training in various emotional clearing techniques that greatly benefit horses (and humans, too!) when they are used in communication and healing sessions.

Horses can have stuck emotions such as “lack of control” or “frustration,” and can be more governed by fear and past traumas rather than feeling grounded and connected to current reality.

When I first adopted my horse, she was guarded and had stuck emotions around abandonment that I helped her to clear, and then our bond grew through trust.

All animals, like humans, can also have heart walls. This is something Bradley Nelson, D.C., discovered in his Emotion Code work. These can prevent horses from receiving and experiencing the good that is here for them now. Sometimes horses also need to release emotions they still have from old barns and owners where they used to live and weren’t happy, so I’ve helped them release the past and start with a clean slate.

In addition, horses are often seen as incredible spiritual beings because they spend a lot of time in a meditative state and can be very still and loving. Many people feel safe crying around them and feel that they evoke awe and wonder.

A Voice and a Choice

These spiritual components are another part of good animal communication, and we can delve into what our horses truly want to be doing in their lives and with their humans. Some want to be great athletes and enjoy physical exercise and competition with their humans; some want to be teachers and healers in equine-assisted therapy or coaching; and others would prefer to be companions without specific work.

We can learn their unique preferences and purposes when we learn to speak with them. It helps them to feel understood, honored, and content when they are allowed to have a voice and a choice.

Many times, horses want to know our expectations for them in our riding relationships. They want to know if and when they will be moved or transported, and if a herd member will be coming or leaving.

They want to express their thoughts about the other members of their support team, such as their vet, farrier, trainer and rider. They also want us to know what bothers them and how they are feeling. All of that information can help their emotional fitness once we are able to understand them better and meet their needs.

What many horses love to communicate is their heart’s desires for their life (their “purpose work”) and how they want to help their humans. They want their humans to know how much they are loved and often want to share how they see their humans. They can have great guidance for how their humans can heal and improve all their relationships.

When animals can get messages across, it makes both their lives and ours easier. They can ask for what they need and want for themselves and for us as well. We don’t need to guess or become frustrated; we can learn how to be helpful to them.

Time after time, I have witnessed a horse’s relationship with his human grow stronger immediately after a session because he finally feels like he was able to fully express himself.

Try It Yourself

In addition to hiring a great animal communicator to be a part of your support team for your horse, you can also learn how to become one yourself. Whether you want to become a professional or you just want to use the skills personally, there are many benefits to animal communication.

At the core, it comes down to a horse feeling seen, heard, valued, and appreciated. Here are some of my top tips and tools to begin horse communication.

1. Permission: Ask your horse if you have permission to chat. I’ve found they always want to talk, as long as it’s a good time and they are in a restful state and not in the middle of playing with friends or taking a lesson, et cetera.

2. Space: Create a specific time and place where it’s quiet and you can bring a journal and really focus on listening and practicing.

3. Intention: Set an intention to connect from your heart space to theirs. You can even put one hand on your heart and the other on your horse’s heart and breathe for a minute. Feel how much you love your horse, then set an intention to receive information from him. Start with simple questions, such as, “How are you feeling today?” and “What are you enjoying today?”

4. Surrender: Let go of attachment to an outcome by staying curious and having fun. Keep it light, simple, and flowing. Assume you already know this skill and can do it! Stay open to how you might receive information, as we are all a bit different with our intuitive skills.

For instance, I am more clairaudient, so I hear what the horses say. If you feel and sense a lot, you may be more clairsentient, and if you see pictures or images, then you may be more clairvoyant.

5. Receive: Keep your body posture open and stay in your heart space. Breathe. Don’t overthink. Smile if you find yourself in your head. Go back to how much you love your horse. And allow your imagination to lead. Just write down whatever comes forward.

6. Gratitude: Thank yourself for trying and being willing to experiment. Thank your horse and share why this practice matters to you. Set another time with your horse for consistency and to improve over time.

How to Clear and Ground

In addition to communication, healing work is also important to offer horses. Equines are often at their safest, for themselves and others, when they feel grounded to their space and land. They feel their best when they are in their own energy signature and not carrying stuck energy.

Clearing: One of my favorite ways to help a horse is to clear his energy field by gently clapping around his body. First test the clap to make sure he doesn’t startle, then move around his body with the intention that stuck energy will leave. Watch to see how your horse likes this and if he is receiving (for example yawning, blinking, nodding, getting sleepy). I have a video demonstrating this on my YouTube channel.

Grounding: You can also put your hands around a horse’s hoof by the coronary band and gently press and imagine your horse connecting more fully to the ground below. Ask for healthy Earth energy to come up into your horse as well. Do this on each of the four hooves. This is great to add to a hoof picking routine or to do before you ride.

Enjoy these new experiences with him and you’ll grow your human-horse-heart connection. Your horse will thank you!

This article about using animal communication for a deeper connection with your horse appeared in the October 2024 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post Using Animal Communication for a Deeper Connection with Your Horse appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

While it might be hard to personally visit all the horse museums in America—they span from Maine to Idaho—you can learn a lot about horses and their amazing history by just checking out their websites. Pay a virtual visit to these museums to learn more about horses, shop their online souvenir stores, and if you like what you see, make plans to see them in person.

Appaloosa Museum & Heritage Center

The Appaloosa Horse played an important part in the history of the Pacific Northwest, and the Appaloosa Museum & Heritage Center in Moscow, Idaho, pays tribute to this colorful breed.

The record of the spotted horse, going back to prehistoric times, begins your journey on the museum’s website, featuring historical artwork showing the origins of colorful-coated equines. You can get a sense of the exhibits at the museum on the Museum Features page, and get details on how to book an in-person tour.

Don’t leave the site without stopping at the museum store, where you can buy everything from Appaloosa posters to jewelry.

Learn more at appaloosamuseum.com.

American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum

The American Quarter Horse is the most popular breed of horse in the world, and the museum dedicated to it in Amarillo, Texas, reflects that popularity. This grand museum features galleries, halls and theaters, all dedicated to the what the American Quarter Horse Association has dubbed America’s most versatile horse.

On the museum website, you’ll find photos and exhibit details, along with information on how to visit the museum in person. Bring your wallet if you make the trip—the museum has a great gift shop.

Learn more at aqha.com/museum.

American Saddlebred Museum

The American Saddlebred Museum, dedicated solely to the American Saddlebred Horse, is located in Lexington, Ky., on the grounds of the Kentucky Horse Park. It houses the largest collection of Saddlebred horse artifacts in the world. 

The museum website provides images from the John P. and Dorothy Lenore Gallery Wing, which houses the museum’s temporary exhibitions, as well as the gift shop.

For in-person visitors, the Elisabeth M. Goth History Wing features interactive areas covering early history and formation of the breed; a mare and foal sculpture; a movie about the breed in the American Saddlebred Experience Theater; a children’s area where kids can color and put together puzzles; a section where visitors can try on show clothes and check their riding posture; and an interactive display where visitors can experience the feeling of being on a horse.

Learn more at asbmuseum.org.

International Museum of the Horse

The largest and most comprehensive of all horse museums is the 64,000-square-foot International Museum of the Horse, located at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Ky. Dedicated to exploring the history of all horses and their impact on human civilization, the museum maintains an ever-growing library and archives, and serves as a resource for scholars and researchers throughout the world.

The museum’s website contains a searchable collection, which allows you to view museum items online based on keywords. You can also get a glimpse of exhibits inside the museum, which will whet your appetite for an in-person visit.

Learn more at kyhorsepark.com/explore/international-museum-of-the-horse.

Kentucky Derby Museum

The most famous horse race in America has its own museum! Located at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., home of the race itself, the Kentucky Derby Museum recently celebrated its 150th anniversary of the race with new exhibits, track tours and a History of the Kentucky Derby book release.

A visit to the museum website provides you with a peek at the new exhibits (including a “Long Shots” exhibit and a display dedicated to Secretariat), a review of the museum’s permanent collection, and a chance to shop online at the Derby Museum Store.

Learn more at derbymuseum.org.

National Morgan Horse Museum

Located at the Pineland Farms Equestrian Center in New Gloucester, Maine, the National Morgan Horse Museum is run by the American Morgan Horse Association, and is dedicated to the history and development of the Morgan Horse in the United States.

The museum website includes historical photographs and articles about Morgans, plus promotional videos about the museum, which provide a look into what the museum has to offer to in-person visitors.

Learn more at morganhorse.com/about/museum.

National Museum of Racing & Hall of Fame

You can learn everything you need to know about Thoroughbred racing in a fascinating series of exhibits at the National Museum of Racing & Hall of Fame, located in historic Saratoga Springs, N.Y.

Paintings from the collection of 20th century racing enthusiast Charles H. Thieriot, an exhibit on the famous racehorse Ruffian, and a juried racing photography exhibit are all currently on display at the museum. The permanent collection includes sculptures, trophies, racing memorabilia, an assortment of paintings and photographs, and of course the Hall of Fame.

Visitors to the website can learn more about what the museum has to offer, as well as buy select items at the online gift shop.

Learn more at racingmuseum.org.

National Sporting Library & Museum

Founded in 1954, the National Sporting Library & Museum (NSLM) is located in Middleburg, Va., the heart of Virginia’s beautiful foxhunting country.

The inviting six-acre campus, world-class research library, and fine art museum highlight the rich heritage and tradition of country pursuits. Angling, horsemanship, shooting, steeplechase, foxhunting, flat racing, polo, coaching, and wildlife are among the subjects you can explore in the institution’s general stacks, rare book holdings, archives, and art collection.

The NSLM also offers a wide variety of educational programs, exhibitions, and family activities throughout the year.

Learn more at nationalsporting.org.

This article about horse museums appeared in the October 2024 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post Horse Museums You Should Visit appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.