How to Tie a Prusik Knot
The same features that allow the Prusik to used to great effect by climbers in ascending a mountain (i.e. the knot will easily slide to where it is needed and …
The Ride Begins Before You Saddle Up: Planning Your Next Horse Camping Trip
“A solid plan doesn’t make a trip predictable; it makes it possible.” Every great horse-camping trip begins long before you tighten the cinch. It starts with maps spread out, coffee …
NW Horse Source – Trail Savvy: You’re Rushing!
Slow Down and Breathe for Effective Training Mr. Thomas, my high school band director, was notorious for his temper. He’d hurl his baton at students when they didn’t follow his …
Navigating Risks on the Trail: A Guide for Equine Adventurers
Trail riding entails risks. A few years ago, along the Canadian border in the Pasayten Wilderness, we noticed a thick smoke plume rising in the distance. Haze began to fill …
Tackling Backcountry Packing: The Logical Next Step from Trail Riding
Want to escape civilization but find the idea of venturing into the wilderness with a pack mule overwhelmingly complex? Tales of horses, hitches, and rocky trails making a diamond hitch …
A Great Farrier is a Horse Owner’s Best Friend
Ellie kicked Alex. It was a stark reminder of my oversight. I hadn’t upheld my end of the bargain and had neglected to train her appropriately. That was a few …
Trail Savvy: Caring for Trails after a Wildfire
Volunteer Efforts are Needed to Restore Burned Trails Unfortunately, wildfire racing across the landscape is a story that repeats itself every year. As forests burn, they take a toll on …
6 Principles to Better Horsemanship
While doing clinics at the Equifest of Kansas, I paused to check out the weekly Ty Evans newsletter. I’m glad I did. Ty posted a list of 6 Principles of a …
Trail Savvy: No Round Pen? No Problem!
Find Horse Training Success in Less-than-ideal Situations A round pen is one of those items that has been on my wish list for a while. Everywhere you look, it seems …
What is in your First Aid Kit?
Are you prepared to be a vet long enough to manage a minor injury or stabilize a more serious wound? In such situations a well-stocked and accessible emergency first-aid kit …