For centuries, horses have shared a unique bond with human beings. They are not only majestic creatures admired for their strength, elegance, and beauty, but also remarkable companions known for their loyalty and devotion to their owners. The connection between a horse and its human is unlike any other, built upon trust, care, and mutual respect. This article explores the nature of horses as loyal animals, how they express this loyalty, and why they have earned a special place in human history and hearts.

The Nature of Loyalty in Horses

Loyalty is often described as a deep sense of trust, commitment, and faithfulness. While humans usually attribute loyalty to dogs, horses are equally capable of showing dedication to those who care for them. Horses are highly social mammals, evolved to live in herds where survival depends on cooperation, communication, and trust. When domesticated, humans essentially take the role of the “herd leader,” and horses naturally transfer their instincts of loyalty and reliance onto their owners.

A horse’s loyalty is not automatic—it must be earned. Horses can sense emotions, body language, and intentions. If treated kindly and consistently, they respond with affection and trust. On the other hand, mistreatment can lead to fear and avoidance. Once a bond is established, however, horses will go to great lengths to follow, protect, and stay close to their human companions.

How Horses Show Loyalty

Horses may not speak human language, but they display loyalty in many subtle and meaningful ways. Some common signs include:

1. Following Their Owner: A loyal horse often chooses to follow its owner without being forced, showing its trust and willingness to stay close.

2. Obedience and Willingness: Horses that have formed a loyal bond are more cooperative, responding quickly to commands and guidance.

3. Protective Behavior: Some horses will instinctively place themselves between their owner and a perceived threat, showing protective instincts similar to dogs.

4. Affectionate Gestures: Nuzzling, soft nickers, or resting their head gently on their owner are ways horses show affection and loyalty.

5. Patience and Dependability: Loyal horses tend to wait calmly for their owners and show remarkable patience in stressful situations, trusting the human to guide them.

These behaviors demonstrate that loyalty in horses is not about obedience alone, but about mutual trust and emotional connection.

The History of Horses and Human Loyalty

Horses have been companions of humanity for thousands of years, playing vital roles in transportation, agriculture, warfare, and recreation. Their loyalty has been a cornerstone of human progress throughout history.

• In Ancient Times: Horses carried warriors into battle, often saving their rider’s life by charging fearlessly into danger. Many cultures believed horses were loyal spirits destined to serve humanity.

• In Agriculture: Farmers depended on horses to plow fields and pull heavy loads. Their willingness to work tirelessly alongside humans reflected their reliability and trust.

• In Modern Sports and Companionship: Today, horses are partners in equestrian sports, therapy programs, and recreational riding. Their loyalty enables riders to form unbreakable bonds that go beyond sport.

The historical role of horses is proof of their enduring loyalty. They have consistently stood by humans, even in the harshest conditions, making them one of our most steadfast allies.

Why Horses Are Considered Loyal

There are several reasons why horses are regarded as one of the most loyal animals:

1. Emotional Sensitivity: Horses are highly intuitive and sensitive to human emotions. They can sense fear, happiness, sadness, and calmness, often mirroring their owner’s feelings.

2. Memory and Recognition: Horses have excellent memories and can recognize people even after long absences. They do not forget kindness—or mistreatment.

3. Trust-Based Relationships: Unlike animals that may serve out of instinct or dependency, horses build relationships based on earned trust. This makes their loyalty more meaningful.

4. Consistency in Care: Horses respond strongly to consistent care, feeding, grooming, and training. Over time, they associate their owner with safety, security, and love, deepening loyalty.

The Role of Trust in Loyalty

Trust is the foundation of loyalty. A horse’s trust must be cultivated over time through patience, care, and respect. For example:

• Gentle Handling: Horses respond best to calm and gentle handling rather than force or aggression.

• Consistency: Regular routines for feeding, grooming, and training reassure horses and strengthen their sense of security.

• Positive Reinforcement: Rewarding good behavior with treats, affection, or kind words encourages horses to cooperate willingly.

• Time and Bonding: Spending quality time with a horse—whether riding, grooming, or simply being present—creates a deeper bond.

When trust is firmly established, loyalty naturally follows. A horse that trusts its owner will remain faithful and devoted in any circumstance.

Horses in Therapy: A Testament to Loyalty

The loyalty and sensitivity of horses have led to their involvement in equine-assisted therapy. Horses are used to help people with physical, emotional, or psychological challenges. Their ability to sense emotions and respond calmly makes them ideal therapy animals. For example:

• Veterans suffering from PTSD often find comfort in the calm presence of horses.

• Children with disabilities can improve motor skills through therapeutic riding.

• Individuals struggling with anxiety or depression often benefit from bonding with horses.

The success of equine therapy is further proof of the horse’s loyalty and unique connection with humans.

Stories of Loyalty in Horses

Throughout history and in modern times, there are countless stories that highlight the loyalty of horses. From war horses that saved their riders in battle to domestic horses that run back to their owner’s side after being set free, these stories inspire admiration. In many cases, horses have risked their own safety to protect or stay close to their human companions, reflecting their deep bond and unwavering loyalty.

Conclusion

Horses are not just animals of strength and beauty; they are also among the most loyal companions humans can have. Their loyalty is not blind but is built upon trust, care, and mutual respect. They follow their owners, protect them, and offer emotional support that words cannot describe. From ancient battlefields to modern therapy centers, horses have proven their devotion time and time again.

A horse’s loyalty is a gift that must be nurtured with patience and kindness. When humans treat them with respect, horses respond with a bond that can last a lifetime. This extraordinary relationship between horse and human is a testament to why horses are truly one of the most loyal animals in the world.

Horses have been close companions to human beings for thousands of years. They have carried us across vast lands, helped us in agriculture, assisted in warfare, and even today play a role in sports, therapy, and recreation. Yet beyond their strength and beauty, what truly makes horses fascinating is their remarkable sensitivity. Horses are not only physically responsive but also emotionally and psychologically attuned creatures. Their sensitivity is a defining characteristic that shapes how they interact with their environment, with other horses, and with humans.

This article explores horses as sensitive mammals, looking into their physical senses, emotional intelligence, social behaviors, and the ways humans can build stronger bonds with them by respecting their natural sensitivity.

The Physical Sensitivity of Horses

Acute Sense of Hearing

Horses have an extraordinary ability to hear. Their large, mobile ears can rotate almost 180 degrees, allowing them to detect sounds from multiple directions without moving their heads. This sensitivity to sound is not just a survival mechanism in the wild—where predators might approach from behind—but also a trait that impacts their interactions with humans. Sudden loud noises can startle a horse, causing them to bolt or react defensively.

Exceptional Vision

Horses also possess one of the broadest visual fields in the animal kingdom. Their eyes are located on the sides of their head, giving them nearly 350 degrees of vision. This panoramic vision allows them to detect even the slightest movement. However, their depth perception and ability to focus directly in front of them are limited, which sometimes makes them cautious when approaching new objects.

Sensitivity to Touch

A horse’s skin is extremely sensitive, capable of detecting the smallest fly landing on its body. This physical responsiveness explains why horses react quickly to even the lightest touch of reins or a rider’s leg. It is also why improper use of riding equipment or harsh handling can cause discomfort, pain, or fear in horses.

Emotional and Psychological Sensitivity

Reading Human Emotions

One of the most fascinating aspects of horses is their ability to sense and respond to human emotions. Research shows that horses can recognize facial expressions, body language, and even changes in human voice tones. They often mirror the emotional state of the person interacting with them. For instance, a calm and relaxed rider is more likely to have a calm horse, whereas nervous energy can make a horse uneasy.

Strong Memory and Learning

Horses have strong memories, especially when it comes to experiences that trigger emotions. Positive experiences, such as being rewarded for good behavior, strengthen trust, while negative experiences, such as harsh training or punishment, can create lasting fear or resistance. Their sensitivity to experiences highlights the importance of patient and compassionate training methods.

Vulnerability to Stress

Like humans, horses are highly susceptible to stress. Changes in their environment, inconsistent handling, or lack of social interaction can make them anxious. Stress in horses may manifest as restlessness, loss of appetite, repetitive behaviors like crib-biting, or even physical health issues such as ulcers.

Social Sensitivity in Herds

Horses are naturally herd animals, and their survival in the wild depends on the group’s cooperation and awareness. Within a herd, horses maintain complex social relationships based on hierarchy, trust, and communication.

Body Language and Communication

Horses rely on subtle body language to communicate with each other. A flick of the ear, a shift in weight, or a swish of the tail can carry significant meaning. This sensitivity to body language also extends to their interactions with humans, as they can read even small cues in posture or gestures.

Bonds and Empathy

Horses form deep emotional bonds not only with other horses but also with humans. They are capable of showing empathy—comforting a stressed herd member or showing affection to a trusted human. This ability makes them particularly valuable in therapeutic settings, where horses are used to help people dealing with trauma, anxiety, or disabilities.

Horses in Human Society: Sensitivity as a Strength

The sensitivity of horses has been both a challenge and a gift in human history. On one hand, their cautious nature can make them unpredictable when frightened. On the other, their responsiveness and emotional intelligence make them incredible partners in various fields.

Therapy and Healing

Equine-assisted therapy has gained recognition worldwide. Horses’ sensitivity allows them to mirror human emotions, making them effective companions for people undergoing mental health treatment, children with developmental challenges, or veterans coping with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The calm, non-judgmental presence of horses creates a safe environment for healing and self-discovery.

Sports and Performance

In equestrian sports, sensitivity is key. Riders rely on the horse’s responsiveness to subtle commands, whether in dressage, show jumping, or racing. A well-trained horse can respond to the smallest shift of weight or pressure, creating a seamless partnership between horse and rider.

Companionship and Trust

For those who keep horses as companions, sensitivity translates into deep trust. Horses recognize individuals, respond to familiar voices, and can even anticipate routines. Their emotional depth makes the human-horse bond one of the most unique relationships in the animal kingdom.

Caring for Sensitive Horses

Given their sensitivity, horses require attentive and respectful care. Here are some important considerations:

1. Gentle Handling – Always use calm and consistent cues. Avoid harsh punishment, as it can damage trust.

2. Proper Environment – Horses need safe, stress-free surroundings with enough space to move and socialize.

3. Consistent Routine – Predictability helps reduce stress. Feeding, grooming, and exercise should follow regular schedules.

4. Positive Reinforcement – Rewarding good behavior with treats, praise, or gentle pats strengthens trust and learning.

5. Emotional Awareness – Handlers must remain aware of their own emotions, as horses often mirror the feelings of the people around them.

Conclusion

Horses are far more than powerful and beautiful creatures; they are among the most sensitive mammals in the animal kingdom. Their acute physical senses, emotional intelligence, and social awareness make them unique companions for humans. By recognizing and respecting their sensitivity, we can build stronger, healthier, and more rewarding relationships with them.

Throughout history, horses have shaped human civilization—not only through their strength and endurance but also through their ability to connect with us on a deeper emotional level. As we continue to share our world with these majestic animals, their sensitivity remains both a gift and a responsibility, reminding us to treat them with the care, empathy, and respect they truly deserve.

Horses are among the most remarkable animals to have ever lived alongside humans. For thousands of years, they have been admired for their strength, beauty, and intelligence. Whether galloping freely across grasslands, pulling heavy loads, or competing in international sporting events, horses have proven to be versatile companions and essential contributors to human history. In this article, we will explore the fascinating world of horses, from their biology and breeds to their cultural significance and role in modern society.

The Biology of Horses

Horses belong to the species Equus ferus caballus, which is part of the Equidae family. They are large, herbivorous mammals known for their long legs, powerful muscles, and graceful movement. Horses are prey animals, which means they evolved to be fast and alert in order to survive predators. This explains their strong flight instinct and sensitivity to environmental changes.

Physical Characteristics

• Size and Weight: Horses can range from small ponies standing under 14 hands (about 1.4 meters) to massive draft breeds weighing over 1,000 kilograms.

• Lifespan: On average, a healthy horse can live between 25 to 30 years, with some reaching 40 years or more.

• Diet: Horses are strict herbivores, feeding mainly on grasses, hay, and grains. Their digestive system is designed to process fiber-rich diets, and they graze for many hours daily.

• Senses: Horses have excellent hearing and a wide field of vision due to their eye placement. They can also detect subtle changes in body language and tone of voice, which makes them highly responsive to humans.

Breeds and Diversity

There are over 300 recognized horse breeds worldwide, each developed for specific purposes such as riding, racing, work, or companionship. These breeds can be classified into several categories:

1. Light Horses

   • Known for speed, agility, and endurance.

   • Examples: Arabian, Thoroughbred, Quarter Horse.

   • Commonly used for riding, racing, and sport.

2. Draft Horses

   • Large, muscular, and strong.

   • Examples: Clydesdale, Shire, Percheron.

   • Historically used for pulling carts, farming, and heavy labor.

3. Ponies

   • Smaller in size (under 14 hands).

   • Examples: Shetland Pony, Welsh Pony.

   • Known for intelligence and hardiness, often used for children’s riding and driving.

4. Warmbloods

   • A mix between light and heavy breeds.

   • Examples: Hanoverian, Dutch Warmblood.

   • Popular in equestrian sports like dressage and show jumping.

This diversity allows horses to serve in many roles, from family pets to elite athletes in international competitions.

Horses in Human History

The relationship between humans and horses dates back around 6,000 years, when they were first domesticated in the steppes of Central Asia. Since then, horses have influenced nearly every aspect of human civilization.

Transportation and Work

Before the invention of engines, horses were one of the fastest and most reliable forms of transportation. They carried goods, pulled carts, and provided mobility to armies and traders across continents.

Agriculture

Draft horses were crucial to farming before tractors replaced them. They plowed fields, hauled produce, and contributed significantly to agricultural productivity.

Warfare

For centuries, horses were central to warfare. Cavalry units provided speed, mobility, and power that could turn the tide of battles. Famous historical figures such as Alexander the Great, Genghis Khan, and Napoleon Bonaparte relied heavily on horses for their military campaigns.

Sport and Culture

Horse racing, often called “the sport of kings,” has been a popular pastime for centuries. In many cultures, horses are also celebrated in myths, art, and literature. Pegasus, the winged horse of Greek mythology, and Sleipnir, the eight-legged steed of Norse god Odin, highlight their symbolic importance.

The Intelligence and Emotions of Horses

Horses are more than just strong and fast animals—they are also intelligent and emotional. Studies show that horses can recognize human faces, remember past experiences, and respond to emotional cues. They form deep bonds with their owners and herdmates, showing loyalty, affection, and even grief when separated.

Training horses requires patience, consistency, and mutual respect. Positive reinforcement methods, such as rewarding desired behaviors with treats or praise, are more effective and ethical than punishment-based approaches.

Challenges in Horse Care and Welfare

Owning and caring for a horse is a significant responsibility. Horses require proper nutrition, veterinary care, regular exercise, and suitable living conditions. Unfortunately, not all horses receive the care they deserve, and issues such as neglect, overbreeding, and poor management still exist.

Animal welfare organizations around the world work to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome abused or abandoned horses. Awareness and education are key to ensuring these animals receive proper treatment.

Horses in Popular Culture

Horses have captured human imagination for centuries. From classic novels like Black Beauty to modern films like Seabiscuit and War Horse, these animals are often portrayed as symbols of freedom, courage, and friendship. Art, music, and photography frequently depict horses to celebrate their elegance and spirit.

The Future of Horses

While technology has replaced many traditional roles of horses, their future remains secure due to their cultural, recreational, and therapeutic value. Advances in veterinary medicine and equine science are improving horse health and performance, ensuring they continue to thrive in modern society.

As interest in sustainable living grows, some communities are even returning to horse-powered farming and transport as eco-friendly alternatives.

Conclusion

Horses are much more than animals; they are living symbols of strength, freedom, and companionship. From their role in shaping human history to their continuing importance in sports, therapy, and culture, horses remain deeply cherished around the world. Their beauty, intelligence, and loyalty make them truly majestic companions of humanity.

As we move into the future, it is vital that we continue to care for, respect, and celebrate horses—not only for what they have given us in the past but for the inspiration and joy they continue to provide today.

Anyone visiting Hof Steigerwald in Hilgermissen for the first time will hardly believe his eyes. Here is trained with ponies and horses, what is actually seen only on dog courses: The horses exceed a seesaw, master a slalom, jump through tires and cross tunnel. Fittingly, the whole thing is called horse agility - the new sport for horse and man not only promotes confidence, but also by the way mobility and coordination ability.

"Actually, the ideas for the individual devices have emerged from the question of how I can meaningfully train from a physiotherapeutic point of view body-sensation," says the instructor, who originally worked with people as a state-certified masseuse. Over the years, however, she focused more and more on the horses and received training in areas such as equine physiotherapy, kinesiology, acupressure, Cransiosacral therapy and Reiki. "At Viviane Theby I started with clicker training, which is now also a focus of my work," reports Steigerwald. For five years she is self-employed in the field of horse training, her hobby horses are beside the agility also medical training, young horse work and senior gymnastics.

Nina Steigerwald's horses are worked exclusively on positive reinforcement. "Especially in free work that is incredibly motivating," she says. "In the past, I rode a lot more than today. If it has to go fast, I just need to wrap a food bag and start working. This is very practical. " 

In fact, each of the many gymnastic equipment that Nina Steigerwald uses on the Agility course, many of which she developed herself, has a special effect on the horse's body. Here we introduce a part of the devices and their gymnastic effects.

Tires

The tire is a test of courage and jumping gymnastics in one: the horse learns that it can not jump over something, but also through something. Here, first of all, every passing through the head is rewarded up to the slow passing through. Later, a small jump follows from the trot or canter. As with the Cavaletti work back and abdominal muscles are strengthened.

Gymnastics mat

Even a thick gym mat, which many are likely to know from physical education, is an integral part of the agility course. There are three positive effects here: "First of all, it's about trust work." If the horse dares to hit the mat, it will be led first in a step, later the whole thing can be increased and extended to trot and gallop. "Here the horse has to stabilize incredibly. It's very tiring to lift the hooves so high that they can easily get over the mat. "

We accompanied Sebastian Nolewajka and his Mustang mare Equiteam's Shy Miller aka Day 3348 for one day during their daily training. The Horseman is one of 15 coaches who face the challenge in Mustang Makeover Germany to win the trust of a true Mustang within 90 days.

Carefully, Sebastian approaches the small, brown Mustang mare. A real brown is not really. Her coat shimmers slightly anthracite colors. She is standing with a Haflinger mare and has her head deep in the hay rack. Sebastian takes the knot holder off the hook and opens the gate to the paddock. Of course, the mare has noticed us long ago, but does not even think about coming to us, nor to let the hay out of her sight. Only when Sebastian has approached two meters, she suddenly sets in motion - not hurry, but still determined. 

Sebastian remains calm himself and keeps taking a few steps towards the mare and stops again. Curious, she watches him and finally lets him approach him. He gently puts her halter over her. Although she has been with him for almost 60 days, it still does not make a routine impression. Sebastian gets moving again and the mare follows him without hesitation.

With passion

Sebastian Nolewajka is a Horseman and successfully runs the Heide Horse Trail - an extreme trail park for horses with seesaws, bridges and various hurdles made of natural materials. He is one of the 15 coaches in the Mustang Make Over Germany and has picked up his mare on 30 April 2017 from the airport in Frankfurt am Main. She came directly from the US from a Mustang reception center and was already prepared for transport and trained. Sebastian became aware of the "competition" through one of his riding students - he had been in the USA several times and had the opportunity to look over his shoulders and to meet Mustangs as well as his horsemanship role models. 

So it was inevitable that he has applied as a coach. However, he has moved after the departure of another coach, but still or maybe even more passionate. 90 days are not a long time and require a lot of trust, time and patience from the trainer and the animal. "Of course I would like to ride on the CHIO grounds in Aachen on the 5th and 6th of August, but unfortunately, that's not what her body does. Of course, Mustangs are late developers and of course have lost much of their muscle due to the long time spent in the recovery stations, but I think we can still get through the substance of the competition well. 

What could be better than winning the trust of a wild horse? And that's intriguing enough. " 90 days are not a long time and require a lot of trust, time and patience from the trainer and the animal. "Of course I would like to ride on the CHIO grounds in Aachen on the 5th and 6th of August, but unfortunately that's not what her body does. 

Of course, Mustangs are late developers and of course have lost much of their muscle due to the long time spent in the recovery stations, but I think we can still get through the substance of the competition well. What could be better than winning the trust of a wild horse? And that's intriguing enough. " 90 days are not a long time and require a lot of trust, time and patience from the trainer and the animal. "Of course I would like to ride on the CHIO grounds in Aachen on the 5th and 6th of August, but unfortunately that's not what her body does. 

Of course, Mustangs are late developers and of course have lost much of their muscle due to the long time spent in the recovery stations, but I think we can still get through the substance of the competition well. What could be better than winning the trust of a wild horse? And that's intriguing enough. " Of course, Mustangs are late developers and of course have lost much of their muscle due to the long time spent in the recovery stations, but I think we can still get through the substance of the competition well. What could be better than winning the trust of a wild horse? And that's intriguing enough. " Of course, Mustangs are late developers and of course have lost much of their muscle due to the long time spent in the recovery stations, but I think we can still get through the substance of the competition well. What could be better than winning the trust of a wild horse? And that's intriguing enough. "

Patience is the A & O

Twice, three times a day Sebastian works with the mare Day 3348 aka Equiteam's Shy Miller - the number serves as an identification feature and is typical of the Mustangs who carry their brand along the mane ridge. Due to the repeated training Sebastian gets more time and can almost simulate almost a year. It was also important not to overstrain the animals. Many riders and coaches are too impatient - if a horse has made his lesson even rudimentary correctly, even if it were only two centimeters in the right direction, the training should theoretically be terminated. "Training with Mustangs is a very special challenge. 

For example, I could not lure her with food at all because she just did not know it, she was very distant at the beginning and just moved into a corner. We also had some teething problems: in Frankfurt, we only got a five-minute instruction and then we were on our own. After we arrived, I took off her halter, a stupid mistake that cost me almost a week of training, but now she trusts me more and more, "explains Sebastian. The fact that there is a deep trust between the two becomes clear at the latest when training in the hall: Sebastian prepares the little mare for the 'Show' in the CHIO Arena and is therefore already training with a smoke machine. Day 3348 is always vigilant and at least always has an ear and eye on us - after all, we are new to their surroundings and they can not really judge us. After careful approach but we can finally caress our first real Mustang.

Be a friend to the horse

Gradually, the machine blows more and more steam into the riding arena, in addition Sebastian gets a large plastic tarpaulin and confronts the mare with it. "It's easier to train with horses that follow their flight instincts. This is similar to the Join Up - at some point, the horse deals with the situation and accepts you as a manager, "says Sebastian. He prefers to call himself a manager, a leader or a herd leader - the word implies a certain compulsion, while the manager remains more neutral. "The horse ultimately needs no one to lead, but someone to trust," explains the horseman. 

Sebastian picks up the tarpaulin from the ground, the mare loosely on the rope, and brings it loud to crackling and closer to the mare. Day 3348 does not run away as we would have thought, but remains relatively quiet. Not because she is not afraid of it, but because a Mustang has just grown up in the wild and is therefore confronted with permanent survival stress. Constant running away would only consume the necessary fat reserves and that could mean death. "This is also the difficulty of the training," emphasizes Sebastian, "if she does not run away, she does not deal with the situation, but it builds up a lot of pressure and then it explodes at some point." Fortunately, we do not experience this 'explosion' in the training session. but because a Mustang has just grown up in the wild and is therefore confronted with permanent survival stress. 

Constant running away would only consume the necessary fat reserves and that could mean death. "This is also the difficulty of the training," emphasizes Sebastian, "if she does not run away, she does not deal with the situation, but it builds up a lot of pressure and then it explodes at some point." Fortunately, we do not experience this 'explosion' in the training session. but because a Mustang has just grown up in the wild and is therefore confronted with permanent survival stress. 

Constant running away would only consume the necessary fat reserves and that could mean death. "This is also the difficulty of the training," emphasizes Sebastian, "if she does not run away, she does not deal with the situation, but it builds up a lot of pressure and then it explodes at some point." Fortunately, we do not experience this 'explosion' in the training session. but it builds up a lot of pressure and then it explodes at some point. Fortunately, we do not experience this 'explosion' in the training session. but it builds up a lot of pressure and then it explodes at some point. Fortunately, we do not experience this 'explosion' in the training session.

Love is (not always) through the stomach

The little Mustang mare makes a very balanced impression. She looks at everything carefully and does not even let her irritate her by the fog machine, as she emits a full load of water vapor again - she is only fixated on Sebastian and thinks hard. At the end of the training, Sebastian also demonstrates sitting down on an oversized beanbag. Every millimeter the mare takes backwards towards the beanbag is immediately rewarded by Sebastian. 

He does not work with treats. "The mare would not accept anything in these situations anyway, and it's worth much more if the animals want to cooperate with us and not just because of the food. Mustangs are honest horses from the ground up - either they love you or they hate you. But once they have closed you in their hearts, you have found a friend for life, "says Sebastian and looks at his day 3348 almost a bit in love. Whether Sebastian might even take part in the auction, he has not betrayed us.

Mustangs - the wild horses of North America

The Mustang is one of the last wild horses in North America. There is no particular breed type, nor can the Mustangs be described as 'real' wild horses, as they are simply the offspring of various European breeds. Convicted to America during the colonial era, some of the horses have been run away and feral - a population has developed that has not only fascinated the Indians and cowboys. The myth of the wild horse continues to this day and inspires many people around the world. Overpopulation and low living habitats have severely worsened the Mustangs situation. The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for the Mustang population and has set up reception centers to sustain the number of wild Mustangs.

Mustang Makeover Germany 2017

For almost ten years, the Mustang Heritage Foundation has been running the EXTREME MUSTANG MAKEOVER in the US to make the wild horse more popular and increase the number of adoptions. This year, the Mustang Makeover takes place for the first time in Germany to promote the fascination of wild horses. 15 coaches have 90 days to train their assigned Mustang and finally present them on the CHIO grounds in Aachen - the animals will then be auctioned off.

Tips and tricks for the winter

The days are getting shorter, it gets uncomfortable outside. Winter is approaching and many a stable community has already asked its members to help with the annual winter service. This is a must for any facility to be well prepared for ice and snow. We have summarized the most important tips for 

Winterize the stable

As temperatures drop, we tend to keep windows and doors closed. However, this should not apply to the stable: fresh air is very important for the sensitive horse leash, especially in the time when the grazing season is over. Even cold weather does not hurt the horses: those who are shorn, defy cold temperatures thanks to a warm winter blanket, and those with winter fur have no problems with freezing temperatures anyway. 

Up to -20 ° C, our horses are perfectly equipped against the cold - by the way, warm-blooded animals, Nordic races such as Icelanders are still cold-resistant. The horse has an extremely good thermal insulation: While the skin can cool to almost 0 ° C, it forms together with the subcutaneous fat tissue an insulating layer for the body. In the coat of hair air is trapped, which also protects the body from the cold. Only from -15 ° C does a healthy horse need extra energy to maintain body temperature. This requirement can be met easily with an additional ration roughage.

Well equipped up to -15 degrees

The weather is often not caused by the coughing of a horse in the winter, on the contrary: the fact that many stables are brought to a comfortable temperature for humans, the horse on the pasture, as soon as it leaves the stable or to spend on the paddock or to work in the much colder indoor riding arena, differences in temperature and humidity that cause him far more trouble than the actual outside temperatures.

As an escape animal, the horse is equipped with a very powerful respiratory system and a large lung volume, which is particularly sensitive to poor air conditions. Harmful, as toxic, are in particular the gases carbon dioxide, ammonia, hydrogen sulfide and methane, which are caused by the respiration of the horse as well as by bacterial decomposition of urine and feces and irritate the respiratory tract. Stable hygiene is therefore important - just as important is the fresh air. Another problem with too little ventilation: an increase in humidity. If it is too high, pathogens such as viruses, bacteria and parasites multiply. Also condensation on the walls can be the result: ideal prerequisite for the formation of molds,

Air in the stable

If a stable temperature prevails in the stable, as outside, the horses can breathe easier. However, the owners of the stables have to face the next challenge: How can the water pipes be protected from frost? Meanwhile, the market offers several solutions to this problem. The line can be specially insulated to withstand cold temperatures. It is also possible to heat the pipes and the drinkers.

Next problem: the use of the washing area. Even if the water is still flowing, it quickly freezes on the floor again. To prevent sliding, sand is often used to cover the ice. Even more effective is the use of the salt substitute magnesium chloride, which freezes only from -33 ° C, but in any case provides up to - 10 ° C good antifreeze. The advantage of conventional road salt: It is considered to be harmless to health and does not attack the sensitive horn of the hooves. 

Even frozen access to the pastures or the hall can be easily exposed with the help of magnesium chloride - however, as soon as a new layer of ice forms, it must be re-strewn. Slippery areas in black ice can also protect floor mats. Particularly recommendable, for example for paddock boxes, are perforated plates, which are filled with sand. Also water-permeable rubber mats are suitable - they ensure that the ice breaks as soon as the horse enters the mat.

Winterfest the riding hall

Magnesium chloride is also the magic word when it comes to frost-free riding surfaces. It freezes only from -33 ° C and found in potash deposits as "carnallite" or in seawater. The decisive difference to salt: It is considered harmless to health and is also used in the food industry, for example as a flavor enhancer. In hard coal mining, it is used as a dust binder. The magnesium chloride binds the water and protects the floor from frost. Another plus: Compared to "real" salt, magnesium chloride does not attack the sensitive horn of the hooves. 400 to 500 kilograms are used as a guideline, which is needed for a 20 x 40 meter riding track to effectively protect them from ground frost. 

The magnesium chloride should be distributed on the hall floor before the first ground frost and act for ten hours, then the floor is pulled smooth - then it can be safely used again. The material retains its effect over several months. In the outdoor area, it may also be necessary to re-sprinkle, after which a longer rainy season should follow, as the material is rinsed out. Incidentally, magnesium chloride is also ideal for allergy sufferers: it binds the dust by covering the floor with a damp layer. In addition, it can also be safely used to defrost frozen roads: thanks to its convincing thawing effect, road-blending mixes also contain around 30 percent magnesium chloride. However, here too, as with conventional salt,

Magnesium chloride keeps the soil loose

Another option: Arpolith, a tan granulate consisting of rock flour, silicates and minerals that is completely biodegradable. According to the manufacturer, it absorbs up to 30 times its own weight in moisture due to swelling. By swelling and shrinking of the granules, the soil is additionally loosened and thus slip-proof and elastic. A secret formula to which the Spanish Riding School in Vienna swears. The natural soil conditioner can be easily incorporated into existing areas: For this purpose, about 200 to 300 grams of granules are applied by hand or with a fertilizer spreader depending on the thickness of the wear layer on the square meter and incorporated with rake, cultivator, cultivator or Reitbahnplaner.

In general, even when selecting the hall floor, stable operators should pay attention to their winter stability. There are now a variety of materials on the market, which are from the beginning to a certain extent frost-proof. Special sand mixtures, wood chips and carpet flakes are included.

Watch for cracks

Before winter, especially in older systems, the roof and roof of the car should be closely examined. Are there dilapidated places or cracks? In particular, when there are boxes right next to the hall and the air has hardly any opportunities to exchange views, sweat quickly forms. Problem: If all doors and windows are closed at night, air humidity accumulates in the building even in sub-zero temperatures. When the doors are reopened the next morning, it not only escapes outside, but also into the riding hall, where condensation water settles on the wood. 

This applies to both the ceiling and the supporting posts. Therefore, especially in winter, the supporting elements should be constantly checked. Draws water into the wood and then freezes, small cracks can occur which may continue to expand with each subsequent exposure to moisture and subsequent low temperatures until the entire support structure becomes unstable. And even those who own a steel construction have their own: here, too, cracks can appear that need to be found in time.

Another part of the traditional "Thoroughfare for winter riding" service was the emptying of the irrigation system, should the pipes not be specially insulated. There is still water in the pipes, it expands when freezing and brings the pipes to bursting - not only annoying, but life threatening for humans and animals, they should be at the time in the square.

Winterize the trailer

Not only stable and hall, but also the trailer should be checked again before the cold season. Here a thorough cleaning is recommended, which can be used at the same time to check the floor for small cracks, especially in the transition to the walls. As with the hall construction, water can enter here, expand at minus temperatures and make the soil unstable. Optimally, the trailer is under a roof or a tarpaulin in winter - this is not possible, it should be a little inclined, so that rainwater can drain better. 

To protect the tires, the wheels can be jacked up. Again, it is worth taking a closer look: Are the tires still in good shape, or are there small cracks? If the trailer is also used in winter, it should be cleaned regularly.