Natural Horse Care in an Unnatural World

I've done a lot of thinking and research on many topics since my 27-year-old Paint, Kobeejo, underwent colic surgery for a strangulating lipoma last month. Mostly, I have gotten deeper into my already existing research on the horse's most unique digestive tract. The very first thing I wanted to fully look into was the ulcers the hospital discovered my horse had. Every veterinarian and nutritionist, even at Tufts, insisted the way to prevent ulcers was to feed 24/7 free-choice hay/forage, always provide fresh clean water and make sure your horse gets plenty of movement (living outside with a shelter being ideal). I had always learned that, if a horse has this, plus the companionship of other horses even nearby (and no excessive medications such as Bute), they would be good to go. My horse always had all of this! So, why did he develop such severe ulcers? As it turns out, studies show that horses in stressful situations, such as moving to a new barn, being taken away from the...

Usually, the vet calls me every morning with a progress report on Kobeejo. This morning, as always, I kept waking early, waiting for that phone call. By noon it had not come, so I climbed out of bed, knowing I had a long drive. I drove myself up to see Kobeejo, as my usual rides were not available. My mom came with me, which helped tremendously. I am a nervous long-distance driver. Fortunately, the traffic was light. Having my mom to talk to made the trip quicker and easier. I took the highway all the way up, but perhaps tomorrow, if Wendy is not available, I might take I-84 to Rte 20 and follow that way up. It's only 6 minutes longer. Not a big deal and I can avoid the tolls and traffic of I-90. We arrived a bit after 2pm. There was a trailer parked in the unloading area and the parking lot was packed! Busy day, I assumed the vet had not called due to emergencies (and I was correct). We had to wait a bit longer than normal in the waiting room and there were more people there...

My horse, best friend and soulmate, Kobeejo... and me (hint: He's the good-looking one) Are you doing everything for your horse that he/she requires as a horse? It's time for the complete truth and honesty with yourself. You will say "yes, I am," but are you reeeeally? Well, welcome to "Stop Killing Your Horse," the HONEST blog about the proper care of horses in a modern and sometimes far too domesticated world. You're probably asking yourself, "Who's this chick that thinks she can tell me how to care for my horse?" Good question. Instead of spewing off a bunch of dry text about all my years in showing, every ribbon I've received, all my qualifications working here there and everywhere, horses I've worked with, let me just say... I'm nobody, really. What I am is a woman who was born with a huge passion and natural affinity for the care and love of horses. "Who isn't?" Right?  Some of you will run away w...