BLOG POSTS

Horses are very sensitive to the slightest changes in our voice, body, weight and even our muscle tone and breathing. In this first of a two-part blog post, Alja Kisilak discusses how to teach horses to change direction, slow down, stop, and perform other behaviors simply by adjusting our body and breathing.

In this post, Dr Gerd Heuschmann explains why the first step to training a young horse is establishing a friendship and why only a saddle, a snaffle bit, a soft rein, a friendly hand and a good seat are needed in classical training.

Just like people, a horse may be either right or left “handed”. In quadrupeds this is known as forelimb dominance or laterality. In this post, Ann Ramsey explains why knowing your horse’s forelimb dominance will help explain his overall posture and behavior patterns.

Have you ever wondered if the decisions we make on behalf of our horses might affect their behavior and temperament? In this post, equine behaviorist, Justine Harrison, writes about how controlling what and when our horses eat; where they go; who they socialize with etc., can all have an impact on their behavior, outlook and even their health. If you are interested in learning some simple tips about how to give your horse choices, then you’ll love this post.

Finding long-term solutions to behavioural issues or pain-related problems through re-education can be quite daunting. Where do you start? What are the steps to helping your horse become healthier and happier?
In this 3-part post, UK trainer, Yasmin Stuart explains how to get started on the process, and what to expect along the way.
Part 1 is open to everyone. Parts 2 and 3 are open to everyone signed up to Equitopia’s membership program. Non-members welcome to sign up here: https://www.equitopiacenter.com/cart/

In part 2 of a two-part blog post, Esther Berger from EquiSmart in the Netherlands breaks down the cost of purchasing a horse.

In part 1 of a two-part blog post, Esther Berger from EquiSmart in the Netherlands sets out to raise awareness about the cost of breeding and training young horses. She asks the question ‘How much does a healthy, young, sustainably trained and kept sport horse cost?’ and explains in detail the cost of each step involved. For anyone considering purchasing a horse, this is a must read piece.

Yasmin Stewart, along with other members of Equitopia’s European team provided a clinic in Kildare, Ireland last month. In this post, Yasmin reflects on the clinic and on the Equitopia approach of working as a team which benefits horses and riders, but also allows professionals to cultivate an environment where the whole team can develop and grow together.

Should we give probiotics to our horses? In this post, Dr Clair Thunes offers some practical advice to anyone considering buying probiotics for their horse.

Every horse is asymmetrical and so is every rider, but what are the implications of these asymmetries? In this post, Katja Porenta discusses asymmetries and advises on what to do when faced with this issue.