Author: Katie Navarra Bradley

Winter rides can leave horses sweaty, chilled, or stiff. Horse coolers and quarter sheets each play a specific role in drying damp coats and keeping muscles warm during cold-weather riding routines.   Here’s what you need to know to purchase the right one for your horse. 

Every horse tack purchase is an investment. Whether for daily trail rides, training sessions, or competitions, buying the right supplies for a horse is essential.   Properly fitted tack allows horses to feel comfortable and improves communication between you and your horse through hand, seat, and leg cues. Good-quality, properly fitted tack also increases safety for both the horse and rider. 

“Does my horse need an English horse bridle or a Western horse bridle? And what size are they? Cob? Draft?” These are the questions you’re likely asking yourself when shopping for a bridle for a horse—and we’re here to help.

Having the right tools makes it easier to keep your barn clean and organized, and your horse looking and feeling their best. This comprehensive guide includes a list of must-have horse supplies, from grooming supplies and first aid kits, to blankets, feed room necessities, and manure cleanup tools.

Shorter daylight hours and colder temperatures often mean less time at the barn. A cold-weather horse grooming routine can help keep your horse healthy and comfortable, even if it’s too cold to ride.   These horse grooming tips for winter can help you get the job done efficiently. 

With shorter days, dropping temperatures, and wet weather on the way, it’s time to think about which horse blankets your horse may need this season. Healthy horses with a shelter may not need a blanket, while older horses, clipped show horses, or those in regular work need extra protection.

Navicular in horses is a progressive degenerative disease that affects the soft tissue, navicular bone, and surrounding structures in the hoof. While there is no cure for navicular syndrome in horses, research has allowed veterinarians and farriers to improve management and outcomes for horses diagnosed with navicular disease. Some breeds, including Quarter Horses, Warmbloods, Standardbreds, and Thoroughbreds, are more susceptible to navicular than others. Navicular is not a medical emergency, but it’s essential to contact your veterinarian at the earliest signs of lameness. Early detection and intervention give your horse the best chance of feeling relief and returning to work.,Decades ago, navicular in horses was a career-ending, sometimes life-ending diagnosis. But thanks to advances in research, treatment, and management practices, many horses can remain comfortable and even rideable for years after a navicular diagnosis. Here’s what you need to know about navicular syndrome, how to reduce your horse’s risk, and how to manage a diagnosis.