Dear Stella, I’ve noticed that my horse has started to lift his hind leg in a really strange way, and I’m worried. My trainer mentioned something about “shivers” or “stringhalt,” but I’m not sure what the difference is between the two. Can you help me understand?– Concerned in Kentuck Dear Concerned in Kentucky, Oh, honey,…
Archives for September 2024
An Equestrian’s Dream: Healthy Meals at Your Door
As any equestrian knows, if you want to keep riding and showing your horse, you need to have your ducks—or should I say hooves?—in a row. For me, that means having two sources of income to make sure I can keep up with the demands of the sport I love. Between juggling jobs, training, and…
Ask Stella: Is It Acceptable for a Horse Trainer to Make Comments About You to Other Clients During Your Lesson?
Dear Stella, During my lesson, my trainer made comments about me to another client who was nearby. It made me feel really uncomfortable. Is that normal or acceptable? Sincerely,Overheard and Upset Dear Overheard and Upset, Oh boy, this one gets under my skin too! Let’s get straight to it: No, it’s not acceptable for your…
Autumn’s Arrival: The Cooling Off Period and the Risk of Colic
Ah, autumn! The season when the leaves start to turn, the air gets that crisp, refreshing edge, and our horses start growing in their winter coats. It’s a beautiful time of year, full of vibrant colors and cooler days that make riding feel like a dream. But, as the temperature dips and the season changes,…