Beginners Advice

As an independent equine nutritionist, I frequently use the phrase ‘ad lib’ myself and I’ve heard owners using the phrase in a variety of scenarios. What exactly does ad-lib mean, and is it right for your horse? Maybe you're currently trickle feeding and ad-lib forage might be better for your horse. What is trickle feeding? In this article, I'll be dissecting these two feeding methods to help you understand how each will impact your horse and which one might be right for them. However, bef...

As a bitting specialist with over 20 years of experience, one of the most common questions we're asked is "I’ve bought a new horse what bit do I use?". Most people think that when buying a horse they would automatically continue to be ridden in the bit that it was previously ridden in or was tried in, however, this is not always the case. What is important is to give your new four-legged friend time to settle in and adjust to its new routine and surroundings and get to know their new stable ma...

In an ever-evolving equine industry, the role of an equine nutritionist has emerged as a pivotal figure in ensuring the health, performance, and overall well-being of horses. From elite athletes to cherished companions, horses require a balanced and tailored diet to thrive. Do you know exactly what an equine nutritionist does and why their expertise might be essential for you? In this article, we will explore the vital role of an equine nutritionist, shedding light on the unique skill set, re...

The investment required to buy a horse isn’t just financial, it’s emotional too. Before you hand over all your savings and your heart, it is vital to be aware of any legal requirements and your rights concerning your horse purchase. Then, if something is not quite right, it’s not too late, or expensive, to find a solution to rectify your concerns. The following article is a helpful overview of the legal aspects of buying a horse and his top tips for buyers.

Before domestication, horses could be considered browsers rather than grazers. They would cover large distances daily, consuming a variety of forages as they travelled. These forages would have been nutritionally poor but varied, being a mix of grasses, plants and even certain trees and shrubs. Fast forward to today and a large proportion of domesticated horses are managed on sources of nutritionally rich and variety poor forages.

Do you think you're ready to embark on the thrilling journey of horse ownership? Before you take the reins, it's crucial to assess your needs, time, riding skills, potential yards, and most importantly, let go of any preconceived notions. In this guide, we'll walk you through the top 5 things you need to do before considering buying a horse.