What better way to care for our equine companions than taking an active role in their health? Horses have become more than a means to an end in today’s world. For many of us they are lifelong companions and friends. When I’ve had a long, exhausting day and don’t have the energy to ride, just caring for my horses brings joy to my life. From cleaning the stall to feeding to just talking out the day with them, I cannot imagine my life without my friends.
My dictionary defines wellness as “The quality or state of being in good health, especially as an actively sought goal.”
What does this mean to us as horse owners? Well, sometimes it means that we care more about our equine companions than ourselves. Maybe not always, but I know I pay more for my horse’s vitamins than I do for my own. For many of us, I believe health – our own and our horse's – is something we take for granted until we have a problem. What does it take to move from this "Don't fix it until it's broken" state of mind into viewing health as an "actively sought goal?"
I encourage you to take a wholistic approach to your horse’s health. Be open to suggestions that may not be mainstream, yet have proven effective for some. Look at the entire horse, not just one particular issue or ailment. Is your horse getting the exercise he needs? Is his feed ration balanced? Does his training program suit his breed, type and athletic abilities? Does his tack fit properly? Remember that you are a factor in your horse's health, too. Are you fit? Do you ride often enough? All of these things affect your horse’s health. Your veterinarian, farrier, trainer, breeder and even your local feed store are all valuable resources who may have suggestions on the best kind of care for your equine companion.
There’s an old saying, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” and part of that prevention is awareness. I believe it’s up to us to be effective consumers of information and make choices based on research and seeking the advice of experts that we trust.
I’m always interested in starting dialog about subjects that are important to our readers. The articles presented in this magazine are decided largely by you as we review our surveys, talk with people at trade shows and horse shows, and hear from those who call in. If you would like to see something, let us know! We are your educational resource in the Northwest, and the best way to find the information you're seeking is to let us hear from you! You can email us at info@nwhorsesource.com or use our “Ask the Experts” section online.
Another great resource for you is Equine Expos. A variety of trainers and experts speak, give clinics and are available to answer your questions. Be sure to visit us at the NW Equine Expo, March 25-29 in Albany, OR.
I also want to thank our Youth Contest participants. Thanks to these amazing young writers, our lineup of stories is fantastic! In our April edition, we'll share with you a number of these heartwarming tales.
As always, I encourage you to ask questions. The more inquisitive we are, the more we’ll learn from those around us. Have a wonderful spring and make sure to get out there and enjoy your horse!
Thought for this month:
“Our prayers are answered not when we are given what we ask, but when we are challenged to be what we can be.”
-- Morris Adler
