YOUR LOOK INSIDE THE LATEST HOOFBEATS Don't miss this issue's line up! hoofbeats.com.au
Each summer, countless horse owners are confronted with the threat of bushfires. While the scale and location may change, the impact on people, animals and communities remains heartbreakingly consistent. One constant, however, is the strength and generosity of the equestrian community when it matters most - something many were reminded of during the devastating Victorian fires. In this issue, we hear from one individual whose actions made a meaningful difference to many.
Across this edition are stories that highlight how profoundly horses can shape - and sometimes change - the direction of a life. This is illustrated in the extraordinary story of Gin and Fable, a young American who travelled Down Under to find a brumby and ride solo across Australia. We also step behind the scenes of equestrian travel and learn of one lifelong love of Lipizzanersby one woman across multiple countries, now continuing in France.
Also explored this issue are topics that may prompt reflection, including whether keeping a horse alone is a welfare concern, what may lead someone to take a break from horses, the ongoing question of balancing equine welfare with performance, and - on a lighter note - what could be in store in the Year of the Horse. The Hoofbeats Team
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Home Alone - exploring the question of keeping a single horse
Keeping horses in company is often described as best practice but for many horse owners this is not always achievable. For owners with one horse the question needs to be asked if keeping a single horse is about welfare, management or understanding the needs of that individual horse and then looking at what options are available for their well-being.
Is My Horse Heavy on the Reins?
To achieve lightness and softness, the rider needs to develop self carriage in the horse, not by using stronger aids and equipment but by correct riding to creating balance, strength, straightness, and a lack of tension to establish a harmonious connection.
Riding Across Australia
Few would tackle riding across Australia solo on a brumby, but that is exactly what 25 year old American, Gin Szagola did. Her 4,400 km ride finished on the WA coast in January, after eight months with her black brumby, Fable.
Conditioning for Performance
When planning to build a horses fitness level, the workload should only ever increase gradually and be tailored to the horses individual response to the added workload.
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The Age of Perfectionism
Perfectionism can be considered by some to be a positive trait; however, there can be downsides, which may show up as self criticism, fear, avoidance, frustration, and emotional overload, all of which can disrupt learning and performance.
MISMATCHED HOOVES - High - Low Hoof Syndrome
A condition usually driven by laterality, this common hoof presentation benefits from early intervention and consistent, informed management.
KNOWING WHEN IT IS TIME - getting out of horses
After years spent with horses, it can be difficult even to consider what a life without them could be like. At some stage, however, and for a variety of reasons, a number of horse owners ponder taking a break.
Behind the Scenes of Equestrian Travel
Equestrian travel has grown into a significant niche in the global tourism market. Tania Huppatz from Snaffle Travel explains why careful planning and preparation ensure that combining horses with travel can offer a highly immersive experience.
In There a Conflict Between Welfare and Performance
With equestrian sport facing scrutiny like never before, the Chief Executive of World Horse Welfare, Roly Owers, considers if true performance is even possible without welfare at its core.
Protein - it is not about the percentage
An essential part of a horses diet, it is important to ensure the right amount of protein is provided to meet their requirements.
A Life Shaped By Horses
Hooked on horses since childhood, Georgina Beard developed a lifelong love of Lipizzaners after being captivated by their beauty at the Spanish Riding School.
Year of the Horse
Horses have taken the spotlight in 2026 as the Chinese Zodiac captures the attention of many, eager to explore their horoscope for the Year of the Fire Horse.
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See the Green Horse section each issue for practical tips and advice to help your horse and property.
Providing Shelter - a necessity, not a luxury
Ross River Virus
Know Your Pasture Grasses
Flying Fox Cull
Bushfire Season Leaving Lasting Scares on Equestrian Community
Herbs for Horses - a wholistic approach
Providing Shelter
The key question for horse owners is what type of shelter best suits their environment, herd, and management system. In many regions, heat and UV exposure present a greater challenge than cold, making shade and airflow critical.
Ross River Virus and Your Horse
The most effective way to prevent mosquito-borne diseases is by avoiding mosquito bites and removing mosquito breeding sites around your horses and property.
