Horse First

 One of the things that is most mind boggling in many various aspects of the equestrian world is that many people look at these animals as machines rather than as partners. Now I'm not saying that every horse person in the world who competes or uses these animals to make money is evil money hungry and ruthless. 

But many are. 

And that's one of the aspects of the horse world that I do not like. My own goals have been pushed back due to injury of my horses. And I could have rushed the healing process or not waited to ensure their longevity, but is that fair?

Or should we as humans adjust our timelines to ensure that our equine partners are better off in the long run? 

I think it's the latter. 

There will always be another race or rodeo or show or whatever it is. But that horse? There is one of them. There might be others similar, but, not withstanding clones, there is just one of that horse. I think that we can balance the business of horses with the best care practices of the animals that we rely on to make us this money. And it might mean making some sacrifices for riders, trainers, and owners...but didn't we get into this arena for the love of the horses? 

I have recently seen some really gross behavior for clout online with horses including a girl who threw a slushee at her horse for views. I see people yanking on their horses mouth or even a professional barrel racer whipping a horse in the head with an over and under at an event. Not to mention the woman who was shocking her horse when it was refusing the alley. I love my sport, and I love rodeo. But I love horses more, and ultimately I will always do what is best for my animal. 

And I will continue to call out this bad behavior, and hope that you will too. 

Follow me on social media for more! Click here!