In every issue of Horse & Rider you'll find articles on training by the country's leading experts, the latest on equine health care from top veterinarians, trail riding tips from savvy back country riders, and much more!
COMPETING AS A DO-IT-YOURSELF rider can be extremely frustrating, but when the stars align and everything comes together, it can also be the most rewarding feeling in the world. While I was very fortunate as a youth rider to have a trainer to rely on at home and at the horse shows, a majority of my adult career has been entirely DIY. It Starts at Home When my horses were in full-time training, I could rest easy, knowing they were getting the consistent work they needed—even if I could only ride a couple times a week. Now, that responsibility falls entirely on me. If I don’t put in the time, my horse won’t progress. I aim to ride five days per week, which means building a schedule that fits around…
BARRY DENTON SAYS IT’S a good thing that I’m not a dog trainer. My dog is spoiled, coddled, and refuses to come when called. She’ll come to anyone else, but not me. My horses, on the other hand, are the very best-behaved: respectful, thoughtful, and eager to please. It’s very clear as to why this is. But why does this matter? It matters a great deal if you want to stay safe, be a successful competitor, or just become a better rider. Lessons Learned Having been raised on a ranch from the time I was a child, there are so many experiences that have shaped the horsewoman I am today. Our ranch horses were tough, smart, and hard working. They each had their quirks. Some were impossible to catch before…
2025 American Performance Horseman Lineup The American Performance Horseman returns to Fort Worth’s Dickies Arena on July 19, 2025, as a standalone event, now featuring eight elite competitors in cutting, reined cow horse, and reining. Champions like Adan Banuelos and Casey Deary return alongside a star-studded lineup from all three disciplines. Visit theamericanperformancehorseman.com to learn more about this year’s riders and event details. Equine Rescue Relief A Home for Every Horse, in partnership with Absorbine, is proud to announce the launch of the Disaster Relief for Rescues Grant, designed to support 501(c)(3) horse rescues impacted by natural disasters. This initiative provides essential financial assistance for shelter repairs, facility recovery, and disaster-related expenses, helping rescues focus on their critical work of rehabilitating and rehoming horses. The grant underscores a shared commitment…
Experience Elite Reining Action The Cowtown Reining Classic returns to Fort Worth, Texas, this June with more than $100,000 in added money. Held alongside the American Paint Horse Association World Championship Show, it’s the richest NRHA-approved Paint and all-breed reining event. Hosted in the Covered Pavilion at the Will Rogers Memorial Center, this high-stakes competition draws top riders and elite horses, and features can’t-miss runs in one of reining’s most exciting arenas. TRAVEL Fort Worth, Texas WHAT 2025 Cowtown Reining Classic WHEN June 23–26, 2025 With $100,500 added, the Cowtown Reining Classic offers $85,000 for NRHA-approved Paint-only classes and $15,000 for all-breed entries. Key events include The Run For A Million Non-Pro and Rookie Level 1 & 2 Qualifier and APHA World Championship reining classes. Plus the event offers a…
Identifying the Issue If your horse has symptoms of osteoarthritis, it’s best to get him examined as soon as possible, as early identification can significantly improve care and maintenance. Even if you suspect OA, you’ll want to have your veterinarian complete an exam to confirm a diagnosis and rule out other causes of lameness. They’ll likely start with a lameness evaluation and x-rays, and if needed, will recommend imaging, such as CT, MRI, or a PET scan. Your vet may also recommend diagnostic arthroscopy. Either way, imaging will help your vet identify narrowed joint space, indicating cartilage breakdown, bony growths, or excess joint fluid, all of which are indicators of osteoarthritis. Navigating Osteoarthritis Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint condition that occurs when the protective cartilage cushioning on the ends…
The Mane Event A winning ride starts long before you enter the arena—it begins at home with a consistent grooming routine. While some horses are naturally blessed with long, luscious manes, others need a little extra care to look show-ring ready. Washing your horse’s mane once per week helps stimulate healthy new growth while keeping existing hair clean, soft, and manageable. This routine reduces the risk of tangles, knots, and breakage that can lead to thinning over time. Using high-quality shampoos and conditioners packed with nourishing ingredients can help repair and protect the hair. And if you live in a dry climate, applying a leave-in conditioner adds extra moisture to help prevent breakage and keep the mane looking full and healthy. Next-Level Mane Care Support growth and shine with easy…
