PATH Equestrian

07/07/2025

I saw a post today that said:

“All horses deserve, at least once in their lives, to be loved by a little girl.”

So I decided to fix it.

As much as it’s lovely to imagine a horse being adored by a child (or even a middle-aged woman), sometimes love just isn’t enough. We see it all the time, people say they love their horse, but their actions tell a different story.

Just like we ask, “Is education enough?” we can ask, “Is love enough?” And the answer is no.

A pony decked out in all pink gear, with sparkly toes, cute braids, brushed to perfection and showered with affection is undeniably adorable. But that doesn’t mean their needs are truly being met. That same pony might be living in isolation, without proper friends, forage, or freedom.

So I’ve changed the quote to what I believe horses actually deserve:

Horses deserve, at least once in their lives, to be truly understood, respected, and loved for who they are — not just for what they can do.

Because love is only meaningful when it’s paired with understanding, respect, and a commitment to meeting their needs.

07/07/2025

I spent the weekend at a Tellington TTouch clinic with Linda Tellington-Jones herself, and it left me reflecting on just how much we can learn from others, even when we don’t train exactly the same way.

I’ve always felt it’s okay (and actually pretty wise) to take the pieces that resonate, the tools that suit you and your horse, and build something that works for your unique partnership. You don’t have to follow any method to the letter. In fact, I actively encourage my students not to just take what I say and apply it blindly. I want them to think about it, reflect on it, ask questions, and make sure it truly fits their horse and situation. A big overarching theme of this weekend was trusting your intuition which I think is so very powerful.

What made this clinic even more special was how many of the TTouch principles align closely with what I already believe. The emphasis on reducing tension and anxiety instead of escalating it, being mindful and truly listening to the horse, and working in partnership rather than force all felt like coming home to ideas I already hold dear.

There were training moments different than how I usually train, but also so many that beautifully aligned with my approach and felt like a natural extension of what I already do. I’m genuinely excited to explore these ideas more in my day-to-day with horses.

This clinic was also a reminder for me personally. I know I can sometimes bring a lot of intensity to training, always looking at the big picture and trying to sort out every detail all at once. Being there helped me see how valuable it can be to simply meet the horse and human where they are and focus on the immediate problem without needing to tackle everything at once. It was a gentle, much-needed nudge that sometimes less really is more. And at the heart of it, all that intensity really only comes from me wanting the very best for the horses.

More than anything, it was incredible to be surrounded by people who genuinely love their horses and are trying their best to do right by them. At the end of the day, that’s what matters most, not whether we all train the exact same way, but that we’re all here trying to give our horses the best lives we can. I came home with some new ideas, more perspective, a bit more humble, and a few more thoughtful tools added to my toolbox. It’s a fresh reminder that there’s still so much good in the horse world, and that’s something I’ll always be grateful for.

07/05/2025

What’s wild about this new “emergency” ban is that just three years ago I was teased and outright harassed for talking about this exact topic. The majority of the dressage world told me I was making things up when I spoke about riders using “marshmallow fluff” (or substances like it) to create fake foam and cover up oral issues or blue tongues.

This is exactly why welfare conversations are so important. What many brushed off as exaggeration or gossip turned out to be real enough to spark an emergency rule change at the highest level of the sport.

It’s a reminder that staying curious and asking hard questions matters. Just because something is widely accepted doesn’t mean it’s right — or in the best interest of the horse.

https://www.horseandhound.co.uk/news/emergency-fei-rule-change-bans-unnatural-mouth-foam-horse-welfare-897304

07/04/2025

We have two new lovely geldings joining our herd, Gully and Rhett!

I thought it was the perfect time to share how we handle herd introductions here and why we take the approach we do.

We always start with a downtime phase where the new horses stay away from the main herd for a bit. This gives them a chance to settle and decompress after the stress of trailering and moving. During this period, we also do a full assessment of their needs, whether that’s nutritional support, behaviour work, training goals, or anything else that can help them transition comfortably.

For example, these two boys have some herdbound tendencies. Since we bring horses in daily for check overs, it’s really important they can be handled independently without stress. We’ve already started working on this and even after just a few days we’re able to calmly walk them away from each other toward the barn and in their stalls breifly. It helps that they’re very well-trained and used to regular handling, which is quite different from the rescues and ferals I usually share on this page.

We’ve also made some big dietary changes, which we’ll phase in over a few weeks, and one of them has started treatment for ulcers.

They arrived last Friday and it’s been wonderful to see how much they’ve already relaxed. They’re settling in beautifully, laying down for naps, soaking in the new environment, and honestly being total attention hogs. I always love seeing horses who WANT human interaction.

Once they’re fully comfortable being handled separately and their ulcer treatment is underway, we’ll begin bringing them closer to the herd. From there, we’ll take them through a gradual introduction process to keep things as calm and welfare focused as possible.

If people are interested, I’m happy to share weekly updates or just highlight the big milestones. Either way, I think it’s so important to show how we do slow, thoughtful herd introductions that prioritize the horse’s well-being.

07/01/2025

Group Turnout Part 3: Keeping the Peace

Over the last two posts we talked about the risks and benefits of group turnout, the dangers of reduced turnout, the hidden costs of isolation, and how thoughtful introductions can make or break herd safety.

But managing a herd doesn’t stop once introductions are done. Keeping the peace long term is just as important.

We, as people who claim to love horses, have a responsibility to learn. To understand how resource guarding shapes herd interactions, how pain can turn into aggression, and how their social dynamics actually work. There isn’t some strict ladder or fixed pecking order. Research shows what we often call a “hierarchy” is far more fluid and shifts depending on the resource — food, water, shelter, their human, or their favourite horse.

Because of that, we need to set up their environment to support calm relationships and minimize conflict. Here’s how we keep our herd living peacefully together after introductions:

• Making sure there are more than enough resources for every horse on the track — multiple water stations, hay stations, and places for shelter or shade.

• Providing safe, quiet spots where each horse can have their supplements or grain without fear of it being taken.

• Being realistic about how much space we have so we don’t overcrowd and create tension.

• Watching closely for changes in behaviour. Pain often shows up as aggression, so if a horse starts acting differently, we may pull them temporarily until it’s managed.

And it’s also about patience. A herd doesn’t just stabilize overnight. Studies show most chasing and sorting happens in the first three days to two weeks, but real settling can take months. True peace is when you see less chasing, more mutual grooming, relaxed grazing together, and horses confidently sharing resources without pinned ears or rushed bites.

Even then, it’s fragile. Adding another horse too soon, changing where food or water is placed, or health issues like pain can disrupt that balance all over again.

Keeping a herd stable isn’t about micromanaging every move. It’s about setting up the right environment, paying attention, and giving them time so they can just be horses.

It’s not about being perfect. It’s about staying curious, learning, and doing what we can to support their needs every day.

In Part 1, we looked at the real risks and benefits of group turnout, and how reduced turnout and isolation come with their own serious costs.

In Part 2, we explored how most injuries actually happen during introductions, and why thoughtful, gradual steps make all the difference.

Now in Part 3, we’ve dug into what it takes to keep the peace long term. From setting up the right environment to understanding how long it truly takes for a herd to settle, this is what real, day-to-day welfare looks like.

Because when we know better, we can do better.

Group turnout isn’t just about putting horses together. It’s about creating the conditions where they can truly thrive.

06/30/2025

Group Turnout Part 2: Safe Introductions

Yesterday we talked about the risks of group turnout, the overlooked dangers of reduced turnout, and the hidden costs of keeping horses isolated.

But here’s the truth. Studies have shown that when injuries occur it’s typically with new horses and herd introductions.

When I’ve had these conversations, one of the biggest hurdles that comes up is:

“The general public doesn’t know how to properly introduce horses or monitor herd behaviour.”

Or

“Most barns just throw new horses in as they arrive on the property.”

And honestly, that is fair. It is true, and it reflects the reality at many boarding facilities. Most of us didn’t grow up learning how to read subtle herd dynamics or plan introductions in ways that truly set horses up for long-term success.

But a lack of public education SHOULDN’T mean horses pay the price.

We, as people who claim to love horses, have a responsibility to learn how to properly introduce horses.

This is where thoughtful, gradual introductions matter so much. It is about reducing risk by making small, intentional choices like:

• Giving horses time to settle into their new environment before meeting the herd

• Observing and learning who these horses are as individuals and what signs when the horse is in pain

• Checking for any underlying health or behaviour issues that could cause problems within the herd

• Setting up the environment with enough space, safe fencing, and multiple resources to limit resource guarding

• Planning introductions in clear, gradual stages instead of just throwing them in all at once

• Most importantly TIME. This. Takes. Time.

These simple steps can mean the difference between chaos and a calm, stable herd.

In Part 1, we looked at the risks and benefits of group turnout, how reduced turnout can actually increase injury risk, the risks involved in group turnout and the hidden welfare costs of keeping horses isolated.

Now in Part 2, we’ve dug into how the biggest risk with group living often comes during introductions, and how thoughtful, gradual steps can make all the difference.

Up next, in Part 3, we’ll look at how to keep the peace long term. Setting up your space and daily management in ways that support a calm, healthy herd once the introductions are over.

06/29/2025

Group Turnout Part 1: Risks and Benefit

Guess I’m touching on another hot button subject.

When we talk about species-appropriate care, we’re not talking about luxury. We’re talking about proper welfare.

Horses are herd animals. They’re wired to graze, move, and live together. Social bonds help regulate their stress, digestion, rest, and even learning. Taking that away has serious consequences.

But I also hear the other side.

“ Group turnout is too dangerous. My horse could get hurt. I keep them alone for their own safety. “

And honestly, research does show injuries are more likely to happen during group turnout than solo turnout. A 2020 study found that a high percentage of those injuries were tied to fencing problems and space constraints.

Another overlooked factor: Turnout Time

Turnout time itself is a big factor in injury risk. Reduced turnout TIME is linked to an increase in herd-related injuries when horses do go out together but not 24/7. Short, restricted turnout builds up energy and social tension, making incidents more likely when they finally get out. Longer, consistent turnout supports stability, burns off excess energy, and helps prevent these issues.

There are people making these choices because they truly care about their horse's safety.

But there are also plenty more worried about their investment, the pristine coat, the resale value, the next show. For them, a bite mark can feel more important than a horse's mental health.

But lets look at what happens horses who are kept alone:

Lack of herd contact is linked to persistent stress, with effects like elevated immune markers, heart rate disturbances, and stereotypies. Studies have shown individually housed horses have elevated stress markers in their immune system, including higher neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratios, which suggest chronic stress and reduced disease resistance over time.

It might seem like keeping horses alone avoids the risk of bites or kicks, but it trades one kind of risk for another. It’s a risk that’s quieter, hidden, and rooted deep in their bodies and minds.

So yes, injuries can happen when horses live together.

But most of the time, it’s not just about IF they’re turned out together.

It’s about HOW.

Tomorrow, we’ll dive into the biggest piece of this conversation: Herd introductions because studies and research has shown a large majority of injures happen DURING herd introductions and the herd settling period after.

The way we set horses up to meet each other can make all the difference.

06/28/2025

It’s been a year since we shared our first aerial view of the track Balancing Whispers so here is our updated aerial shot!

Let’s take a look at what’s changed since 2024:

1. Planted trees:

We added willow trees in areas where water tends to pool in the spring. They help soak up excess moisture and will eventually provide natural shade (and some branches to snack on!) along the track.

2. Wood chips:

Our local arborist has been dropping off wood chips that we’ve spread on the track. They help with drainage and add more varied terrain.

3. Screenings and stone:

We reinforced one of our busiest areas with screenings and stone to improve footing and hold up better under heavy use and more varied terrain!

4. Automatic water posts, buffet, and sprinkler:

Hydration is key, so we’ve added several watering options, including a sprinkler to help keep horses cool on hot days.

5. Regraded near the top gate:

We cleaned up the area in front of this gate and installed a French drain to stop water from pooling during heavy rain or spring thaw.

6. Scratching post:

We put up a scratching post with multiple brush options so the horses can self-groom and scratch those hard-to-reach spots.

7. Permanent feeders:

We installed 27 metal flip-up feeders from Nag Bags all around the track. They make feeding quick and easy while still encouraging the horses to move.

A track system of this size always a work in progress, and we’ll keep making improvements as we grow and welfare science changes! ☺️

06/23/2025

Ribbons Don’t Justify Abuse 🥇

I’ve been reading a few threads lately about the noticeable drop in show attendance, both locally and beyond (that in itself is a whole other topic). One reason that keeps coming up? The fear of being labeled an “abuser” when all eyes are on you in the show ring.

Let’s lay it out plainly:

If you’re afraid to show or share your methods publicly because you might be labeled as abusive…

There’s a good chance what you don’t want to show IS abusive.

This isn’t about bullying or people being “too sensitive” about different training styles. It’s about legitimate, ongoing concerns. We’ve seen enough high-level competitors caught mistreating their horses, even with cameras rolling.

So the real question is:

If this is what we’re seeing, what aren’t we seeing?

And frankly, since we’re on the topic, I’m DISGUSTED by the number of shows and competitors who chose to go ahead this weekend despite the extreme heat, extreme heat warning and vet warnings.

It was over 35°C without the humidex.

Here’s what the University of Guelph has to say:

“It only takes 17 minutes of moderate intensity exercise in hot, humid weather to raise a horse’s temperature to dangerous levels. That’s three to 10 times faster than in humans. Horses feel the heat much worse than we do.”

MANY local vet pages put out warnings.

This raises the question again:

Do these people truly love the horse? Or do they love the sport?

Because when you knowingly put a horse at risk for ribbons or reputation, your priorities are clear.

At a certain point, saying “I love horses” while ignoring heat indexes, visible stress, or being concerned about your public image or being cancelled it doesn’t hold much weight.

It’s all connected. Whether it’s hiding harsh methods behind closed barn doors or pushing through dangerous heat for a show, too much of this industry still puts performance before welfare.

06/22/2025

DIY horse cooling!

This weather is brutal so this is our solution for our herd!

Just attached an old semi broken sprinkler to the fence with zip tied and ran it for 30 minutes

The area around the sprinkler dropped a few degrees even if they didn’t stand in the water they got a good misting.

The area around was SO cool by the time we turned the water off.

06/20/2025

I used to sit through anything.
Bucks. Bolts. Broncs.
I was the kid they called in when a horse had “problems.”

I was proud of that. It was something I advertised, something I was known for. Coaches and barn owners would hand me the horses that needed to be “put in their place,” and I’d stick it out. I was small enough for the ponies and firm enough to ride out most of what they threw at me.

And because I rarely got thrown, I was told it was a talent.
So I believed it.
I believed that sitting through the chaos meant I was helping them.
That I was making them better.

But I wasn’t listening.
I wasn’t asking why they were bucking. Or bolting. Or panicking.
My job was to ride until they stopped… until they gave up.

I look back at photos I used to be so proud of… and I see something different now.
Not a challenge to conquer. Not a seat to brag about.
I see horses in distress. Over threshold. Trying to communicate.

I don’t often talk about my past, but here’s the truth:
I was a harsh trainer. I punished “bad” behaviour. I relied on force and threats, and I completely overlooked pain, environment, and emotional welfare.

That version of me doesn’t exist anymore.
But I think it’s important to acknowledge where we came from, especially if we want to be honest about where we’re going.

Growth means letting go of the pride we had in survival and choosing to listen instead.

06/19/2025

It was lovely to have such a discussion with a room full of likeminded humans but it sadly does remind us that the wonderful conversations we had, are unfortunately not the norm.

I had the exact same feeling coming out of this conversation and felt exactly the same about what the “answer” is.

And it also reminds us to not take these conversations and connections for granted because us being able to connect with likeminded humans helps us keep going against the grain when there is pushback and bullying.

But for now, we just continue to be the change we want to see in the horse world ❤️

Recently, I sat with a University professor managing a small research program involving equine behaviour, welfare and management and several of her masters and PhD candidates to discuss the state of the horse industry as a whole.

It was a rich, layered conversation, one that’s still sitting with me days later.

I’ve always believed that education is the key to change.

That if we could just share evidence-based information, raise awareness, and teach better practices, we could shift the paradigm.

That once people know better, they’ll do better.

But during this conversation, a difficult question circulated: Maybe education alone isn’t enough?

Because the reality is, people don’t always change just because they’ve been given better information. Sometimes, they knowingly ignore what they’ve learned.

Not because they don’t care. But because implementing knowledge is hard.

It requires looking in the mirror and admitting:

“Maybe I was wrong”
“Maybe I missed the signs”
“Maybe there’s a better way and I haven’t been doing it”

That’s uncomfortable. It’s vulnerable.

So instead of making changes, many people stay stuck in cognitive dissonance. Rather than changing behaviour, the mind often tries to resolve this discomfort by justifying or denying the evidence.

“He’s just being difficult”
“It worked for my last horse”
“This is how we’ve always done it”

And so, despite the abundance of credible information, the suffering continues.
Our industry has deep-rooted problems.

Affording the care horses truly need can be overwhelming. The cost of adequate nutrition, bodywork, appropriate tack, responsible training, and appropriate living environments is high. As we raise standards, we also risk making the sport less accessible, particularly for newcomers. So people compromise. They rationalize. They do what they can afford or what feels easiest or most familiar.

So if education isn't enough … What is?
This question keeps me up at night.

Don’t get me wrong, we’ve seen incredible change through education. In our student community, in our graduates, in our clients and followers on social media, there are countless people who have welcomed the information and implemented it with courage.

They’ve done the hard work. They’ve looked in the mirror. They’ve stepped out of their comfort zones. And they’ve made things better for their horses.

But for those who resist, who know better but don’t do better, what will it take?
Maybe it’s not just education we need.

But where do we start?
Do we start by making space for discomfort and showing people they’re not alone in it?

By highlighting the why, not just the how, because transformation is always rooted in purpose, not pressure?

To those who’ve leaned in: we see you. We’re proud of you.
To those who are still resisting: we’re not giving up on you either.

For now, I don’t have the answers.

But I do know this: Change doesn’t start with perfection. It starts with awareness.
And the willingness to keep asking the hard questions.