History of Horses in the year 2007

Hello there, fellow equestrians! It's Emma here, from Hayfield near Aberdeen, your resident historian of all things horsey. This week, we're going on a journey through the year 2007 – a year bursting with fascinating equestrian happenings! Buckle up, because we're going on a galloping adventure through time.

First, a quick snapshot from my own stable. The year 2007 saw my farm busy as ever. I continued to work alongside my team of sturdy steeds, pulling the local carts for farmers, taking the occasional gentle rider around the hills for a calming ride, and most importantly, helping at the annual village fayre.

You know, 2007 was a turning point for many of us in Hayfield. A new young woman named Fiona took up residence here, full of energy and excitement. Fiona quickly charmed our humans and brought a touch of modern, energetic spirit to our little community. She was determined to create a place where people could learn about horses, from their historical significance to the joys of riding.

Fiona brought with her new equipment, sturdy jumps and colorful poles that made our training sessions even more lively. Even I, an older mare used to traditional ways, found myself enjoying the occasional trot through the jumping course! She had dreams of starting a riding school, and even encouraged us horses to take part in some of the local competitions, with her guiding hand of course. The year ended with our local farmer taking first prize in the Highland Games! I'm not sure he even thanked me, but he couldn't have done it without my trusty hooves!

Of course, the happenings at Hayfield were just a tiny snippet of the wider world of horses in 2007. And this year, we saw a fascinating mix of tradition and change on a global scale.

Let’s start with the Olympics, held in Beijing, China. It was a spectacle like no other. It was here that the world witnessed the magnificent discipline of equestrian showjumping and dressage. I can’t say I wasn’t a tad jealous! While I spent my days pulling a hay-filled cart for the village baker, some of my cousins were gracing the Olympic stage. I did get a sneak peek on television, watching those perfectly trained steeds prancing and leaping with elegance, an unforgettable sight!

The World Equestrian Games in Aachen, Germany, held a special place in 2007, as a platform for all things equine. The focus was on diverse disciplines, from vaulting and driving to show jumping and dressage. I do believe there were even races involving the “Mustang” breed. That reminds me, my neighbour's daughter was raving about those spirited horses. Imagine! The wild beauty of the wild West! They say even they learned some valuable lessons at the games!

Something new emerged in 2007 – the concept of 'EquiTherapy.' You see, horses, with their quiet strength and gentle nature, have been recognised for their remarkable ability to help those with disabilities and various health conditions. People began creating dedicated programs where they could use therapeutic riding as a powerful tool for both physical and mental wellbeing. This trend fascinated me, as it meant that even horses like me, who might not be competing in show jumping, could make a significant difference in the lives of people. It showed me that every horse had a purpose, every horse could contribute in their own way.

Another technological shift occurred this year. An ingenious woman named Linda Tellington-Jones introduced her revolutionary horse training methods. Imagine a way to communicate with a horse without the use of harsh tactics! Her approach involved respecting a horse’s instincts and using a gentle combination of touch and communication to create a bond. She became quite famous for her hands-on methods, teaching trainers and riders across the globe! I overheard the local veterinarian excitedly talking about a “Tellington touch" – a clever technique to help reduce stress and anxiety for anxious horses. This was certainly an era of fascinating innovations.

Beyond these fascinating breakthroughs, there were significant developments in the area of equine welfare. The 'Horse Protection Act', which aimed to safeguard the safety of horses used in racing, was revised to address important concerns about humane treatment. A positive sign for all horses!

Equine science too, made significant advancements. It’s incredible what they can now discover in the realms of nutrition, medicine, and even genetics! They now had this thing called ‘DNA profiling', allowing them to determine a horse’s ancestry. I believe the technology was used in a program for Thoroughbred horses, though the details are hazy in my memory.

In the heart of 2007, a great shift started to happen in the way we, horses, were understood and respected. The growing recognition of horse welfare, as a cornerstone of responsible ownership, took a leap forward. More and more people started taking a real interest in horse breeds, history, and well-being, as well as the connection between horse and human. I think it's safe to say that the world of horses, even in Hayfield, began a new era, and one we’re all looking forward to.

2007 felt like a turning point – a moment where humans began to truly understand and value their relationship with us horses. From the Olympic spectacle to the advancement in science and welfare, we had exciting and hopeful times ahead of us.

But the most important aspect of 2007, at least for me, was the way horses, even the simple draught horses like me, were considered more than just working animals. We were part of a team, an integral part of a rich and ancient relationship. And the humans in our world, well, they began to show their love for us in a new and positive way.

I'm curious to know, what were YOUR experiences in 2007? Do share your stories on www.equiworld.org!

Until next time, stay paw-sitive!

Love,

Emma

Hayfield, Aberdeen