Horse tack may seem identical and interchangeable to the non-horse person, but such items are indeed some of the most personal a horse owner selects.

This column is dedicated to Nya Bates, an Idaho horsewoman who changed the lives of people and horses from California to Tennessee and from Florida to New England, as well as offering vital teachings to literally hundreds of horses and humans in the Gem State.

I’m finally restocking my horse trailer for the summer’s trail rides. Each year I follow a check list of necessities and possibilities to be prepared for whatever surprises each situation presents. I’ve learned the necessity of several of these items because I was out in the middle of nowher…

The onset of winter also heralds serious colic potential.

Experienced horse owners and trainers look at a properly fitting saddle as a necessity.

As exciting as it is to finally get back in the saddle, it’s important to remember trail riding etiquette.

Sunshine between snow showers means it’s time for equine spring cleaning.

Spring has come early to eastern Idaho and I’m seeing green grass sprouting in my pasture.

Now is the time to get ready for your foal’s long-awaited arrival.

Riders ready to brave the cold can find some relative warmth in area arenas.

Halters, blankets, saddles, bridles and bits may seem pretty generic and interchangeable to the outside observer, but horse owners have very specific ideas about how to outfit their equine companions.

Winter horse shoeing needs differ greatly from summer’s counterparts.

The amount and type of vitamin and mineral supplements your horse needs changes with the season and the horse’s age. Personally, I give great thanks to the companies that produce low-carb and senior feed for horses. My little fatties love their grain buckets but can’t safely ingest a lot wit…

Fall is usually the time when horses are required to transition from pasture to hay.

Fall brings cooler days, turning leaves and the arrival of bot flies.