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Falling Isn’t Failing: How to Overcome Fear After a Fall
Falling off a horse is something every rider experiences at some point. It doesn’t matter how skilled, experienced, or confident you are, gravity eventually has its say. But what happens after the fall is what truly shapes you as a rider. Fear is normal. Hesitation is normal. Even questioning yourself is normal. What matters is how you move through it. Here’s how to rebuild your confidence, reconnect with your horse, and get back to riding with clarity and courage. 1. Acknowl
michellemestelle
May 32 min read


Water Wisdom: How to Keep Your Horse Hydrated Year‑Round
Hydration is one of the most important and most overlooked aspects of equine health and performance. Whether you’re conditioning for competition, hauling long distances, or simply managing day‑to‑day barn life, your horse’s hydration status directly affects their muscles, digestion, temperature regulation, and their overall well‑being. Because horses are athletes too, their hydration needs can shift quickly based on workload, weather, stress, and diet. Understanding how to su
michellemestelle
Apr 183 min read


Hydration Tips & Best Practices for the Equestrian Athlete
Hydration Tips & Best Practices for the Equestrian Athlete As equestrians, we spend countless hours thinking about our horses’ hydration—checking water buckets, adding electrolytes, monitoring sweat, and adjusting routines based on weather and workload. But here’s the truth many riders overlook: your own hydration matters just as much as your horse’s. Riding is a full‑body athletic pursuit. Whether you’re schooling dressage, galloping cross‑country, or spending long days at a
michellemestelle
Apr 63 min read


To Boot or Not to Boot: Navigating the Use of Splint Boots for Today's Owners
In the world of equine care, few topics kick up as much dust (and debate) as the choice to use splint boots. Long hailed as essential...
michellemestelle
Jul 8, 20252 min read


Equine Superpowers: How Horses Communicate Without Words
Horses are master communicators—but instead of words, they use subtle body language, expressions, and movement to convey emotions,...
michellemestelle
May 29, 20252 min read


Kat's Ranch Rider Spotlight- Emily May
Emily and Kathleen Elliot Emily May is an equestrian enthusiast whose journey with horses began in 2018, when she was 8 years old. With a...
michellemestelle
Jan 5, 20251 min read


Choosing the Right Halter for Your Horse-A Guide
Selecting the perfect halter for your horse is an essential aspect of equine care and management. With a variety of options available, it...
michellemestelle
Dec 10, 20242 min read


Staying Hydrated: A Summer Guide for Equestrians and Their Horses
As the mercury rises, staying hydrated becomes crucial for both equestrians and their horses. The summer heat can be relentless, and...
michellemestelle
Aug 8, 20243 min read


Helmet Smart: An Equestrian's Guide to Safe Riding
The Importance of Wearing a Helmet When Riding a Horse Riding a horse is an exhilarating experience that connects us with nature and...
michellemestelle
Jul 4, 20243 min read


Copy of Tips for Getting Ready for Horse Show Season: A Guide for All Riders - Repost!
Show Season 2024 in underway, so we wanted to share this Blog Post again! Show season is an exciting time for riders and horses alike....
michellemestelle
Apr 1, 20243 min read


Copy of How to Learn Your Dressage Test Like a Pro - Repost
Show Season 2024 is underway so we wanted to share this post again. Happy Riding! Learn the Dressage Court Layout Dressage tests are...
michellemestelle
Mar 21, 20244 min read


The Half Halt Explained: How It Works, When to Use It, and What to Avoid
What is a half halt? A half halt is a riding technique that helps to balance, collect, and prepare the horse for a movement or a...
michellemestelle
Feb 24, 20243 min read


Riding the "Wrong" Lead: The Beauty of the Counter Canter
The counter canter is a canter where the horse is on the outside lead, meaning that the leading leg and the bend are opposite to the...
michellemestelle
Feb 9, 20243 min read


The Importance of Salt in a Horse's Diet
Salt, or sodium chloride, is a vital mineral that your horse needs for various functions in the body. It helps regulate fluid balance,...
michellemestelle
Jan 14, 20246 min read


The Language of Touch: How Riders and Horses Communicate
One of the most fascinating aspects of riding is the ability to communicate with a horse through touch. Riders use their arms and hands,...
michellemestelle
Dec 31, 20233 min read


Kat's Ranch Rider Spotlight: December Spotlight -Jillienne Endresen and Smokey
Jillienne Endresen is a young and talented rider who has been passionate about horses since she was four years old. She started riding...
michellemestelle
Dec 10, 20232 min read


How to Learn Your Dressage Test Like a Pro
Learn the Dressage Court Layout Dressage tests are not only a way to showcase your skills and harmony with your horse, but also a great...
michellemestelle
Nov 20, 20234 min read


Tips for Getting Ready for Horse Show Season: A Guide for All Riders
Show season is an exciting time for riders and horses alike. Whether you compete in English or Western disciplines, you want to make sure...
michellemestelle
Nov 11, 20233 min read


To Blanket or Not to Blanket? How to Keep Your Horse Warm and Cozy in the Cold Season
Blanketing horses in the winter is a topic that many horse owners and lovers are interested in. Whether you should blanket your horse or...
michellemestelle
Nov 6, 20235 min read


Why You Should Learn from an ARIA Certified Riding Instructor
If you are interested in learning how to ride horses, you may wonder how to find a good instructor. There are many people who claim to be...
michellemestelle
Oct 27, 20233 min read
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