A Voice for Horses - Issue 5 (Responsibility) - Online

EDITORIAL

Responsibility: Where does it begin? Where does it end?

The responsibility that comes with having a horse changes your entire life. Often, we only see the romantic side: enjoying time together, going on trail rides, competing in events—whatever your personal reason may be. In reality, these reasons are just the icing on the cake. First, you have to “bake the cake” and take on the responsibility of providing your horse with a happy and healthy life.

I believe this responsibility begins long before you buy a horse—with honest self-reflection. Why do you want a horse? What can you offer the horse? Are you willing to invest time and money over many years and grow into the person your horse needs you to be?

The main ingredients for a happy horse are its basic needs: a suitable herd environment, plenty of movement, high-quality feed, and a clean place to rest. Our responsibility is also ensuring that our horse is treated with respect and dignity by whomever it comes in contact with, be it the stable staff, farrier, or trainer.

The ingredients for a healthy horse come from your solid understanding of natural biomechanics, properly fitting tack, a balanced seat, and soft, refined aids. Just as important is the ability to recognize stress, discomfort, and pain early on and take responsibility for making changes—because most health issues are self-made.

The responsibility ends when we accompany our horse on its final journey. Caring for a horse is a huge responsibility—and at the same time; a deeply rewarding experience.