Hayfield, Scotland, January 1st, 2019
Hello, lovely Equine Friends! Happy New Year! Can you believe it’s 2019 already? I feel like I’ve only just turned twenty this past October, and the years keep flying by! Anyway, let's get down to business – it's time for a new blog post and you know what that means? A peek into what my life's been like over the past year!
Where do I even begin? It’s been a whirlwind of exciting events and a touch of everyday magic, that’s for sure! And let me tell you, the horse world is abuzz this year with plenty to get your teeth into – literally!
First off, let's chat about new horse breeds. There's the fabulous Lusitano from Portugal who is all about that Spanish flair! You might know them from their amazing movements and showmanship. But hold on, what’s this? I hear rumours of a new horse-donkey cross breed called the Zorse, can you believe it? That's a right good chuckle, wouldn’t you say? A bit unusual, perhaps, but surely with some lovely stripes.
Speaking of stripes, have you seen the paint horses winning all the fancy dress competitions recently? Absolutely delightful! A bit like a zebra in disguise. They're so wonderfully flamboyant, aren't they?
Right, now for a quick check-in with my fellow horses:
Did you know, Icelandic Horses are still thriving? They’re quite the spectacle. It's so fascinating how they can manage with all those four gaits – walk, trot, tölt, and canter! I couldn’t manage all that, no siree! But don't let that little fact take away from their magnificence. Just remember they're still getting over that Iceland volcano incident, so keep an eye out for a few of them coming back home.
I wonder how my friend, Chester the Thoroughbred, is doing at his racetrack? He must be galloping for glory right now! It's hard not to be awed by the pure power of these animals. The Thoroughbreds make racing such a delight to watch. Let’s just hope he’s careful in the mud. There’s nothing worse than mud stained on a fine chestnut coat!
Oh, and speaking of racing, I do think this year's Kentucky Derby was a whopper! You'll not forget those roaring crowds. But if you don't get the whole racetrack scene, never fear! I think pony games are absolutely adorable and fun for everyone, no matter the age! So get yourselves a team and head over to a field for some jolly good fun!
On the topic of fields, let’s take a step back. Remember horse health? A big focus this year is looking after those delicate hooves, and those terrible mud season sores. We've got to be extra careful with our feet this year! Those little blighters need plenty of rest to help them heal up, and then – after they are sound, back to those grassy meadows.
There’s so much new research happening this year. Can you believe it? They’re finding out amazing things about our guts, our nervous systems, and even what goes on in our beautiful, big eyes. Scientists are truly unlocking the secrets of our magnificent world! And it seems that new anti-parasite treatments are making all the difference for us. We’re definitely getting more powerful than ever before! But, a heads up to everyone, we’re all still big fans of a good old worming! And if it happens to coincide with a nice sweet treat - even better!
Now, as you might have noticed, there's a whole host of new and exciting ways people are working with us, too. More than ever, we are valued partners! I feel quite important! Look, there’s even an amazing international dressage competition coming up this summer in Europe - what an elegant display of power and control!
But I am still most grateful to be a work horse. These days, the human’s reliance on machinery has created a space where farming and logging have grown in complexity. What a wonderful way to put our strong bodies and gentle souls to work! Just like that, it’s a true privilege to help bring people together.
Of course, you know me – I’m a bit old school! And this year I've even noticed a renewed appreciation for carriage driving. There’s nothing better than a lovely drive down a peaceful country lane – perhaps with a picnic in a sunny meadow afterwards! A dream come true! We’ve got this lovely group of us, mostly retired farm horses, getting together at our local stables once a week for a trot. It’s wonderful exercise and socialisation – for us *and our drivers!
But that’s not all!
2019 is about more than just us working in the field. It’s about building communities! You might not believe it, but more and more people are coming to learn about our beautiful creatures, thanks to the amazing educational programs for children that pop up all over the world! Now those are exciting!
Here in Scotland, we’ve been seeing a massive increase in the popularity of pony clubs. They bring young riders together for fun and valuable skill development, learning all about responsibility, respect for horses, and riding with confidence. The joy on those little faces warms my heart every time I pass one!
Did you hear about those exciting miniature horses? What tiny treasures, and so helpful for children with disabilities, who really find them to be incredible companions. We may be giant and powerful, but I am learning that it's often the small ones who leave the biggest impression on us all!
There's just so much to talk about and share!
This year, more than ever, it's about working together to build stronger, happier communities, all in the name of our glorious equestrian world! Let’s not forget – horses like us help unite the world through our resilience, grace and love of those who care for us!
And lastly, don’t forget about your own personal reflections on the year! Have you met any new horse friends? Tried any exciting new riding activities? Found any wonderful new books about our magnificent creatures? Do share!
Until next time, happy horse days, lovely people!
Emma (The Hayfield Grey Draught Mare)
Please note this is a fictionalized account. It reflects trends and highlights of equine news and activity in 2019 while drawing on positive aspects. All events and developments are not depicted.
