Winter is on hand and the hay makers are making hay while the sun shines. I should stock up on hay for my horses for the winter, and am discovering the hard way, like a lot of people with horses, that hay has shot up in price and shot down in quality. Horse owners have to use supplements with even prime quality hay. When we were getting hay at 2 or 3 dollars a bale, we did not feel it was any kind of strain to pay for the supplements too. Now, when hay has hit exorbitant prices per bale and appears to have hit the very bottom in quality, we feel the pinch. We are indignant that at a price this high the hay quality is so poor; we’d have anticipated the best hay for the way that we are being scalped.

One of the equine failings most difficult to set right is rearing. It can be fatal for both rider and horse, and at its very finest, could be a horrifying experience for the rider.

To cure a pony of his rearing habit, you have first got to figure out why he does it.

If you have ever seen Olympic equestrian sport and appreciated the grace and talent with which the riders taking part in the events pull off their part, then you should equally appreciate the intensive coaching and hard effort underlying the magnificent performance. Just how long did the rider train his trusty steed for, and using what strategies, to achieve such amazing end results? Well, prior to asking such deep questions, you should begin at the beginning: eliminating fear—whether it’s in the horse, the rider, or both.

Say you have an outstanding pony, a champion at the equestrian sport you trained her to take part in. You’re happy with her and her achievements. Have you ever stopped to ask if she’s actually , really well-broke?

Horses are usually investments—meaning they have to be taught to do what they’re intended to do so their owner can profit from them. Whether that’s trail riding, straight forward horse riding, show jumping, eventing, or dressage, owners need their investment to pay a return. A common mistake is to expect the investment to repay too quickly.