Equines: Horses and Donkeys

Norwegian Fjords are one of the oldest horse breeds in the world. Domesticated some 3000 years ago, the Norwegian Fjord’s sturdy build and calm temperament have seen it excel in almost every discipline. Once a Viking war horse, the Norwegian Fjord became a highly valued draft horse, pulling heavy loads around the hilly farms across […]

How we keep our horses often depends on the overriding philosophy of the yard they’re living in. If all the other horses in the yard are shod, chances are, you will also shoe your horse. In some instances, shoes are necessary to prevent excessive wear and provide stability for the horse. In others, they can be

Last year, Sweden’s showjumping team shone a spotlight on the controversial barefoot vs. shod debate. Two of three horses in the Swedish squad competed barefoot, securing gold and silver medals for their riders. If horses can compete at top international events without shoes, what does that mean for the future of shoeing?  Do horses need

I’ve witnessed hundreds of interactions between horses and dogs. Some have been gentle and companionable, while others have left me fearing for the dog’s life.  Do horses like dogs? Horses are naturally afraid of dogs. Horses are a prey species, so even though dogs are much smaller than them, horses fear dogs because they are

  Donkeys are fun to have around and make excellent companions. Not only can they keep alpacas company, but they can also guard sheep and entertain ponies and children! Having descended from the desert-dwelling wild ass, the donkey is generally healthy, low maintenance, and resilient against many diseases and illnesses. Why does my donkey look

  Miniature horses are known to be less expensive than your average Quarterhorse, right? While a miniature horse may cost considerably less to buy and care for, there are numerous expenses you must be prepared for. How much do miniature horses cost? Miniature horses cost between $500-$1,300 to buy. One miniature horse costs around $158.77-$256.59

  When I first got a donkey, I was not expecting the sudden nips and full-on teeth smacking bites that such a small equid could launch at me! After all, I had raised horses for many years, and I had believed myself capable of “reading” a donkey. I didn’t understand why my new donkey was

  You glance out the window to see your two horses frolicking in the field, playing. Suddenly they stand close together like a mirror image, and one stretches her neck out to plant small, repetitive bites on her companion’s rump. The gelding mimics her, and for several minutes they’re lost to the world as they

  I know how dangerous drooling can be in a horse. My young 2-year old filly has been an absolute learning curve for me, but blowing bubbles was new! My filly always seems to come up with new and strange things to do as she explores her world. However, the drooling concerned me, and I

  It’s happened to most of us. You’re riding with a friend on the trail when they take the turnoff to go home. Your horse suddenly refuses to carry on along the path. Perhaps your horse wants to follow the other horse. Or they call out, back up, or even begin napping and want to