West Wind Stables Colorado

09/03/2025

A study from Ohio State University suggests that horses need a minimum amount of space to derive all the benefits of turnout—and to stay out of each other's hair. Click the link in the comments to learn more.

07/29/2025

While it’s a common equine emergency, esophageal obstruction (“choke”) can look alarming, especially if you've never seen it before. Unlike in human medicine, where choking refers to a tracheal (or windpipe) obstruction, choke in horses refers to an obstruction of the esophagus (the muscular tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach).

Most commonly, choking occurs when horses eat concentrated feed too quickly without chewing appropriately, which results in a firm bolus lodged in the animal's esophagus. However, esophageal obstruction can also occur with hay or straw, hard treats, carrots, or nonfood objects. Poor dentition, which leads to inadequate chewing, is also a frequent cause of choke.

While common, choke can have serious consequences. So, be sure to call your veterinarian as soon as you notice signs of choke. A bad choke is fairly obvious to both veterinarians and horse owners, but a mild choke could be confused with an upper respiratory tract infection or colic.

06/04/2025

Important Survey~ Input due by June 6, 2025.
Several cities, counties, and now Colorado Parks & Wildlife have been reevaluating their future plans and determining how to utilize trails, open spaces, and other areas under their jurisdiction, based on public input. Please stay informed and be involved. If equestrians do not speak up, we will be (and often are) left out of the discussion and future decisions of what happens to our trails, open space, access, and who is allowed to use the areas we enjoy.
Please follow the link to CPW's 10-year strategic plan feedback form, and keep equestrians part of the conversation in Colorado.
https://engagecpw.org/cpw-strategic-plan?utm_source=ehq_newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=ehq-Share-your-input--CPWs-2026-Strategic-Plan&utm_campaign=website&utm_medium=email&utm_source=ehq

06/03/2025

Welcome to the Learning Lab at West Wind Stables; A place for inspiration, thinking, creativity, laughter, and writing.

09/26/2024

My sisters and I had the incredible experience of growing up riding trustworthy, fast, and sure-footed, Appaloosas. We love a lot of horses, but our hearts definitely spoke/speak Appaloosa. They are a gift to kind and gentle spirits. Appaloosas know the way. Which breeds of horses do YOU find your spirits being drawn to or called to investigate?

09/26/2024

Welcome Zero the Magnificient! Photo snapped after routine dental work. She's too darn cute, and has made fast friends here. Anyone interested in taking the first flight, I mean, Ride?😉

09/25/2024

It is Never OK to feed any horse that is not your own; this includes wild horses. Knowing and respecting this fact will prevent unnecessary deaths of beloved domestic and wild horses. Thank you to Ralphe Hughes for your donation to assist with burial expenses for Mack.

Apples and carrots are unfamiliar foods to the wild horses

09/18/2024

Mack was laid to rest on Monday evening, September 16th, 2024. He was a wonderful horse and had such a sweet and willing soul. Rest In Peace, Mack, your work on Earth is done.