Horse Hub Academy

16/05/2024

It's been far too long since I have shared on here!
I thought I would reintroduce myself, I'm Jessica, wife, mum and horse obsessed.
I am the creator of Horse Hub Academy in my endeavours to share my knowledge and experience to help horse owners and enthusiasts alike.
Lately I have been focusing on getting my pony club instructor certificate. A dream I have held since I was a teen at pony club myself!

05/10/2023

Happy October! The website has had a much needed refresh which means I have also tweaked my services so that I can better assist you and your horse.
Head on over and have a look and leave a comment here to let me know what you think!

28/09/2023

Spring has well and truly sprung! Here in Canberra it has become hot quite quickly and the grass is not growing but is short and green and sweet. For the first time I have had to muzzle my mare in order to keep her happy in the paddock. For many horses, this time of the year is one of the most dangerous. Colic and laminitis are real risks that could be crippling and potentially fatal. Staying vigiliant, monitoring your horses' condition and having converstations with your vet will help keep your horse healthy.

28/08/2023

This is such an important service that we lucky Canberrans (and surrounds) have the opportunity to use.
Gone are the days of worming as the season changes, it is more important than ever to get your horse tested. It is easy, cheap and importantly the most effective way of de worming your horse. By using this service you can worm your horse safely and target the burden they have rather than guessing and building up the resistance that we are now finding among worm burdens.

Thank you FECC!

Faecal Egg Count Canberra (FECC) is a locally run business that has been operating for the last 3 years, servicing Canberra and surrounds with cost effective, prompt and accurate parasite egg counts for horses and the occasional sheep and goat. Horse tests are $15 per sample, with multi horse discounts available. Sample drop off locations include Chapman, Tuggeranong and Belconnen town centres. Please contact us for information about mail services. FECC also carry out on site testing for agistment centres or if you have a large number of horses. Feel free to contact FECC with any questions and remember to 'Test before you worm'.

19/08/2023

Spring is nearly here! That means hairy horses and ponies are starting to shed their coats and longer, warmer days will replace the short dark ones. I know that I am looking forward to the warmer weather and shiny summer coats!
While it's exciting, it can also be an anxious time for some owners with horses and ponies that have a range of issues that can flare up at spring time. The big one to look out for is laminitis - a condition where the structure of the foot is inflamed and can in the worst cases be life threatening. Keeping horses exercised, reducing sweet feed and green grass intake are all going to help avoid this illness. Now is the time to watch for any changes to your horse or pony and if necessary, have a chat with a vet to head off any potential problems.

16/08/2023

I really resonated with this post because this is how I feel a lot of the time when seeing things in the horse world. The key is relaxation first, then everything else will come afterwards. Fantastic words to live by.

WHAT DO YOU SEE?

A few weeks ago I watched a few video clips of the 2022 European Dressage Championships with a feeling of discomfort. This morning I viewed a clip of a horse that was difficult to pick up its feet.

Yesterday I watched a training video by a well-known horsemanship trainer and felt very uncomfortable.

When I read some of the comments that accompanied each of those videos, I was struck by how much my assessment of the training and the performances differed from others. There I was feeling very uncomfortable about what I was watching, yet feeling like I was missing something because of how much rapturous support was being expressed in the comments section.

Then it struck me that what I was looking at and what other people were looking at were not the same elements of the same videos.

People saw the reach of the forelegs in the extended trot of one of the dressage horses and loved it. I saw foam erupting from the horse’s mouth like a volcano indicating tension and worry. I saw a neck with extreme curvature and heavy-handed use of the reins. It bothered me.

In the video of the horse that avoided having its feet picked up, people’s comments ranged from checking for ulcers to back soreness. Yet I saw a horse that was distracted and mentally disconnected from the handler and was wanting to be with its paddock buddies.

In the video showing the horsemanship trainer working a horse, there was a lot of praise for the responsiveness and lightness the horse showed when asked to perform lateral flexions. I saw a horse that was afraid of the reins.

At a horse expo a few years ago I watched the c**t starting competition. The official winner of the event was able to ride his horse over tarpaulins, open a gate, and cracked a stock whip while sitting on it. He got a huge applause. But for me, the unofficial winner of the event was a woman who didn’t even try to get her horse to do any of those things. It was not ready. In fact, she didn’t even ride her horse. But over the three days her horse became relaxed, connected with her, and was trying its heart out at everything it was asked. The way she worked with her sensitive mare was first prize in my book.

I want to be clear that I am not yelling at anybody. I want to be clear that I am not saying that my judgment and perception of what is right is where the discussion ends. But I am trying to point out that different people have different ideas of what they believe is good training. I want to point out that some people make their judgments based on what we can teach a horse to do. Other people are more interested in judging the quality of training on what we can teach a horse to feel.

When I see a horse working a cow or performing a half pass or walking into a trailer or grazing in a paddock, it is my inbuilt bias that automatically looks at the inside of a horse. When I see a horse that is crooked or lame or straight or sound, I immediately think, “What is going on inside that horse?” When I see a horse standing to be mounted or approaching a jump, my mind first considers its expression, the direction of its thoughts, and the tension in its body. I do these things long before I consider the quality or correctness of a horse’s movement or the obedience to the aids. I can’t help it. It’s my prejudice. And because it is such a strong prejudice in me that I sometimes find it hard to understand why other people don’t judge horses and training the same way. Why do some people get excited by a huge expressive canter while a horse is displaying deep emotional upset? It’s not that I think they are wrong. It’s just that I don’t get it. I guess this explains why I am not the trainer for everybody, as hard as I might try.

Photo: This is my mare, Six showing the sort of relaxation that is worth more to me than any blue ribbon.

06/08/2023

🐴🌟 Calling All Beginner Horse Owners! Here to Guide You to Equestrian Success! 🌟🐴

Are you a new horse owner? Are you coming back to horses after a number of years away? Look no further! Im Jess and I run Horse Hu Academy where I am passionate about helping beginners like you navigate the wonderful world of horsemanship with ease and confidence.

🌟 Why Choose Horse Hub Academy?
🏇 Expert Guidance: I am dedicated to teaching you the ropes, step by step. I'll guide you through the basics, from horse care to riding techniques, ensuring you feel comfortable every step of the way.

🏇 Safe Learning Environment: Your safety is my priority. My patient and supportive approach ensures you'll learn in a safe environment, fostering trust and a deep connection with your equine partner.

🏇 Tailored Programs: I understand that every beginner is unique. That's why I offer personalized programs, designed to meet your individual needs and goals.

🌟 What I Can Offer:
🏆 Beginner-Friendly Lessons: No previous experience required! Beginner-friendly lessons cater to all skill levels, from total novices to those looking to brush up on their skills.

🏆 Horsemanship Basics: Learn the essential horse care and handling techniques that form the foundation of a strong and loving bond with your horse.

🏆 Riding Made Easy: Master the art of riding with calmness and confidence in a confidence building session. I can help you gain confidence in the saddle and achieve your riding aspirations.

🌟 Join Our Equestrian Community:
At Horse Hub Academy, you're not just a student; you're family! Join the community of horse lovers and share the joy of equestrianism with like-minded individuals.

🌟 Take the First Step Toward Equestrian Success:
🔗 Visit our website at www.horsehubacademy.com to book your first lesson and embark on an unforgettable equestrian journey. Get ready to gallop into the world of horsemanship! 🐎🎉

I will provide you with professional and educated support to help navigate all parts of horse ownership. Whether you are starting out or coming back after some time away, I made the mistakes and learnt the hard lessons so you don't have to! 

31/07/2023

Happy Horse's Birthday 🥳🎂!! Give your horse or pony an extra squeeze today because we love them!

14/07/2023

Happy Friday! I'm thinking of putting out something about the dizzying choice of bits and bridles and maybe some thoughts around it. Would you read a post or prefer a video?

Comment below!

10/07/2023

Monday thoughts...
I recently saw a post about the difference between horses of 30 years ago (1990s) compared to now. The original post was by someone who shared photos of pictures in Australian equestrian magazines of horses that were competing at the highest levels in dressage, showing and showjumping. The most obvious difference, aside from the tack being used which was incredible simple in nature and the same across the board, was the way the horses were ridden. More open in the frame with light hands, horses with their ears forward and still tails and horses that were happy to stand during presentations.
Given what the internal dialogue (putting that mildly) in the equestrian community, is it time to review and go back to the old ways? Or do we continue on with the modern sport horse and the 'stronger' ways they are ridden along with the incredible development of tack?
I would love to know your thoughts!

09/07/2023

Pricing options are now live on the website! There are many options to choose from so that I can be flexible to meet your needs. If you wish to know more, please get in touch here or at [email protected]

04/07/2023

Happy Tuesday! I have written my longest blog post to date but its one that I really enjoyed writing. Its all about reminiscing on my horsey childhood. It would mean a lot if you could have a read and let me know what you think or even share your own memories and experiences!

14/06/2023

Head over to the website to read my latest blog post. You might want to bring a cup of tea for this one ☕

10/06/2023

Happy Saturday! Its the long weekend and on this cool but sunny Saturday I would love to know what horsey activites you are all getting up to! I know there is the ACTDA dressage competition on here in Canberra. How did everyone go plaiting up in the negative degrees?! 🥶
This warmer, dry winter is giving one upside, which is that the weather is slightly nicer to ride in!
The winter solstice is set to happen on the 22nd of June so those short days are soon to end!

Comment below your activity or tag Horse Hub Academy on instagram 😊

22/05/2023

Safety advice for rugging as the southern hemisphere heads into winter 🥶
For Un-rugging:
- undo the rug front to back with chest straps/buckles/clips first, then belly straps and lastly leg straps
- clip up leg straps so they are not dangling down. This prevent you from tripping on them, stops them being broken and also wont slap the horse around the belly or legs when the rug goes back on.

For Rugging:
- Start with folding the rug in half (inside out) then gently place on the horses saddle area
- unfold rug and adjust so the rug is even on both sides.
- Start with the leg straps first, then belly straps and lastly the chest strap.

I hope this top tip helps you with your rugging experience this winter!

Stay Safe and Stay Warm ~ Jess

22/05/2023

Good morning from a frosty Canberra!
It's not even winter yet and here we have already had many many nights and early mornings that have fallen well into the negative degress. Even a -4!
With these frosty mornings there a few things to keep in mind for our horses:
- Remember to check water troughs for ice. Even thin ice needs breaking so that your horses can have a drink. Particularly if you trough is shaded or covered, it may not melt until the afternoon.
- If possible, put a salt or mineral lick close to your water source or in the stable. Colder weather means some horses wont drink as much so a salt lick will help entice them to drink.
- While the nights and mornings are cold, remember on a sunny day (windy or not) to remove heavy rugs. Horses have a much larger comfort scale with temperatures compared to humans. Also if your horse has a full winter coat, the mechanisms in the hair will help keep your horse warm. That's why they look so fuzzy! Hair will stand up and lay flat in variances with the outside temperature to keep your horse comfortable.
And finally: food. Try not to be tempted to up your feed rations overnight. If you are worried that your horse is getting hungry or even losing weight, increase your hard feed (grains, pellets etc) a little bit at a time. Remember to read the pacakaging of your feed bags and supplements and get some digital kitchen scales and weigh your scoop empty and then with feed in it. Not every feed is the same and rations are not the same. Any questions please ask your vet!
The best practice is to increase roughage - hay. Horses should be having at least 1.5% of their bodyweight in roughage a day. Hay will also keep your horse warm from the inside out.

What is your winter routine? I would love to know!

Stay warm and Stay Safe ~ Jess

15/05/2023

Tip Tuesday ~ Clean your brushes! The method and soap you choose to use will depend if you have natural bristle brushes or synthetic. Generally, you can use any soap, make sure you rinse, wash, soak then rinse again, then finally, leave to dry.
Cleaning brushes that clean your horse is important to keep your horse and thier coat healthy.

13/05/2023

Hello & welcome! Im so glad that you are here!

This page is for first time horse owners who would like to know more about owning horses and ponies. I will be sharing information, highlighting equine professionals that could help you and also sharing my story and why I believe Horse Hub Academy is something that will change the way we are as horse owners.

All that being said I would love for all horse owners to be here to share their individual knowledge and ask their own questions so that the great equine community can learn!

So please comment, follow and share this page and let your horse friends know that Horse Hub Acadmey is here to help!