Mad Barn Academy

Fleas in horses are uncommon, but they can still cause skin irritation, itching, and discomfort when infestations occur. While horses are not a preferred host for fleas, they may become temporary hosts after exposure to infested animals such as dogs, cats, or wildlife, or from contaminated environme...

Pica in horses is a condition characterized by repeated ingestion of non-food items such as dirt, sand, wood, bedding, or manure. Unlike normal foraging behavior, pica involves actively seeking out and swallowing materials that do not provide nutritional value, which can signal underlying issues rel...

Congenital myotonia in horses is a rare, inherited neuromuscular disorder that affects how muscles relax after contraction. Instead of returning quickly to a resting state, affected muscles remain contracted for longer than normal, resulting in temporary stiffness that is often most noticeable after...

The Eriskay Pony is a rare native pony breed from the Outer Hebrides of Scotland. Shaped by generations of life in a rugged island environment, these ponies are admired for their strength, soundness, and kind disposition. Historically, they were essential working animals on crofts, carrying peat fo...

Training is a central aspect of the horse-handler relationship, ensuring clear communication and quicker, more reliable responses. An understanding of how horses process information allows handlers to build stronger connections and achieve consistent results across various training activities. Ho...

Administering oral medication is a routine part of horse care, but it isn't always straightforward. Many treatments for conditions such as gastric ulcers, infections, respiratory disease, or parasite control are delivered as liquids, tablets, or powders. While the instructions for these products oft...

Winter horse care comes with its own set of challenges, and bathing horses in cold weather can be one of the trickiest. Mud, sweat, and manure stains still happen during winter, but washing a horse when temperatures drop requires extra caution and planning. Horses are well-adapted to cold environmen...

Horses are intelligent, curious animals that benefit from both mental stimulation and physical activity. In natural settings, daily routines revolve around grazing, movement, and social interaction, which help satisfy these needs. Domestic horses often experience limited turnout or confinement, whic...

Adequate vitamin and mineral intake is essential to maintaining your horse’s health and well-being. But with so many different supplement options on the market, how do you know which one to choose? The best vitamin and mineral supplement for your horse is the one that optimally balances their diet...

Horse owners often wonder what supplements their horse actually needs to stay healthy and perform well. While feed rooms are often filled with products promising support for gut health, joints, […]...

Thiamine, also known as vitamin B1, is a crucial water-soluble nutrient for horses. It helps convert carbohydrates into energy, supporting muscles, nerves, and other tissues. Since horses store only small amounts, they depend on regular intake to maintain their health and function. In addition to...

Bermudagrass is a widely used equine forage used in the southern United States, valued for its adaptability, productivity, and cost-effectiveness. As a warm-season perennial, Bermudagrass thrives in hot weather and provides consistent forage during summer months when cool-season grasses decline. ...

Hoof growth and hoof quality are common concerns in mature horses, particularly in breeds such as Friesians that are prone to thin soles, slow hoof growth, and brittle hoof walls. [ref n="1"] Nutritional imbalances are a well-recognized contributor to poor hoof strength and reduced horn production. ...

In December of 2024, a diet evaluation was requested for a 12-year-old Morgan mare named Kelta. She weighed approximately 800 lbs (363 kg) and was located in Alaska, USA. Initial reported concerns included topline loss, metabolic health, and weight issues. Her owner’s primary goal was to support h...

In July of 2022, a diet evaluation was requested for a 16-year old, slightly underweight Thoroughbred mare named Epona. She weighed approximately 1000 lbs (454 kg) and was located in Arkansas, USA. Initial reported concerns included weight issues and topline health. The owner’s primary concern was...

In May of 2024, a diet evaluation was requested for two Quarter Horse geldings named Clark and Andy. They weighed approximately 1000 lbs (500 kg) and were located in Texas, USA. Reported concerns included weight and topline issues following a long move from California to Texas. Their owner’s prima...

Autoimmune disease in horses occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues instead of protecting against infection. Rather than targeting bacteria, viruses, or parasites, the immune response becomes misdirected, leading to inflammation and tissue damage. Although autoimmune...

Rat poisoning in horses occurs when horses accidentally ingest rodenticides, which are pesticides used to kill rats and other rodents. Exposure can happen through contaminated feed, water, pasture, or bedding, especially in barns, tack rooms, and feed storage areas where rat poison is used. Differen...

Nightshade poisoning occurs when horses ingest plants from the genus Solanum, a group that includes several species that produce toxic compounds. Plants such as black nightshade (Solanum nigrum), bittersweet nightshade (Solanum dulcamara), and horse nettle (Solanum carolinense) contain naturally occ...

Rhinopneumonitis in horses, commonly called "rhino," is a contagious respiratory disease caused by equine herpesviruses (EHV-1 and EHV-4). These viruses are widespread in horse populations worldwide, and most horses are exposed at some point in their lives. While many cases are mild and resemble a c...

Oxygen is essential for sustaining life and fueling performance, especially in athletic horses. The ability to take in oxygen from the environment, deliver it through the bloodstream, and use it within the muscles is critical for energy production, movement, and performance. During exercise—partic...

Horse racing demands speed, precision, and safety—for both horses and riders. Inadequate racetrack surfaces are considered a risk factor for musculoskeletal and catastrophic injuries in horses at high speeds, making track design a crucial factor in preventing harm. To meet these needs, many tracks...

Equine nasal strips are non-invasive devices used to support respiratory function in horses during intense physical activity. Made from stiff, spring-loaded plastic with an adhesive backing, these strips are applied externally across the upper part of the horse's nose. Their main function is to keep...

Horses that are well-conditioned or physically fit are better able to perform their work. A fit horse has a reduced risk of injury and soreness and their increased strength allows them to work more effectively. Achieving peak performance in horses requires strategic conditioning that enhances endura...

Peacock stirrups are a long-standing safety option in horse riding, commonly used in lesson programs and for beginner riders. They’re designed to release the rider’s foot during a fall and help reduce the risk of the rider being dragged. However, many barns, trainers, and competition organizatio...

Refusals and runouts in show jumping horses are one of the most frustrating training challenges riders face. Whether a horse suddenly stops in front of a fence or drifts sideways to avoid it, these behaviors can impact performance, confidence, and safety for both horse and rider. Understanding why t...

The Belmont Stakes stands as one of the most historic and demanding races in Thoroughbred racing. Established in 1867, it’s the oldest and final race in the American Triple Crown series. Known as the “Test of the Champion,” the Belmont Stakes requires three-year-old Thoroughbreds to compete ov...

Setting up show jumps at home allows riders to practice jumping skills, build confidence, and improve communication with their horse outside of formal lessons or competitions. However, jump training carries inherent risks, making safety a critical consideration when building and arranging fences. A ...

Ergots are small, hardened skin growths found on the lower legs of horses. They are easily overlooked due to their position beneath the fetlock where they are usually concealed by surrounding hair. Though commonly mistaken as minor or insignificant, ergots are living tissue that continues to grow th...

The coffin bone, also known as the distal phalanx or P3, sits at the very tip of the horse's limb, completely encased by the hard hoof wall. Its unique shape provides the foundation for weight-bearing and shock absorption with every stride. Although hidden from view, this bone plays a pivotal role i...

Hoof capsule avulsion, or hoof degloving, is a traumatic injury that can severely impact a horse’s ability to move and function normally. The hoof plays a vital role in supporting the horse's weight, absorbing shock, and maintaining balance, which is fundamental to overall health and performance....

Emerging equine research is the cornerstone of expanding our understanding of equine health, nutrition, management, and performance. This growing body of research provides valuable insights for veterinarians, equine professionals, and researchers seeking to apply evidence-based approaches in both cl...

The equine digestive system is a remarkably complex and sensitive network of organs, adapted to process a steady supply of forage around the clock. When its delicate balance is disrupted, the horse's ability to process and absorb nutrients is affected. For this reason, gut issues are one of the most...

The equine gastrointestinal system is one of the most complex parts of a horse’s body. Designed for nearly constant grazing, a horse’s digestive tract depends on a steady flow of forage, water, and beneficial microbes to function properly. When this balance is disrupted, even slightly, gastroint...

Gut sounds in horses are more than just background noise — they provide valuable clues about digestive function. These gastrointestinal sounds, known as borborygmi, reflect the activity of the digestive tract and can help caretakers detect early signs of gastrointestinal dysfunction. Consistent gu...

Colitis in horses is a serious inflammatory condition affecting the colon, leading to symptoms such as diarrhea, dehydration, and abdominal discomfort. Colitis is a general term that describes inflammation in the colon. In horses, there are a number of conditions associated with different forms of c...

Adopting a wild horse requires forethought, long-term commitment, and respect for horses' nautral instincts. For experienced equestrians looking for a unique partnership, adopting a wild horse offers the chance to participate in the preservation of an iconic species and engage in a deeply rewarding ...

As riders, we are constantly working to improve our skills for both ourselves and our horses. We know that our actions in the saddle can be the difference between a 12-fault round and a flawless double clear. We want to ride with a light seat, steady hand and clear cues that tell our horses exactly ...

Understanding how horses perceive their surroundings allows owners and riders to apply effective training methods, calm and consistent handling, and sound management strategies. This guide covers the main causes of spooking, techniques to build confidence, and practical steps for managing spooky hor...

Welfare in equestrian sports, particularly in show jumping, is fundamental to ensuring the long-term health, happiness, and well-being of the horses involved. Show jumping is a sport that demands speed, precision, and agility, all which place significant physical and mental expectations on the horse...

Coprophagia in horses, or manure eating, is a behavior most commonly seen in foals but can also occur in adult horses under certain conditions. While it is considered a normal and beneficial behavior in young horses as their digestive system develops, persistent manure consumption in adults is less ...

Horses may bite for many different reasons, and even a playful nip can result in bruises, broken skin, or unsafe handling situations. For owners, riders, and barn staff, addressing biting behavior is essential for maintaining safety and building clear communication. By recognizing what motivates equ...

Wild or feral horses spend most of their day grazing on a variety of grasses, shrubs, and other natural forage, carefully selecting plants to meet their nutritional needs. In contrast, domestic horses are often provided with concentrated feeds, hay, and supplements that may not fully replicate the d...

Cold-backed behavior in horses is a common yet often misunderstood issue that can significantly affect a horse’s comfort, performance, and overall well-being. Whether the horse reacts to being saddled, shows stiffness during warm-up, or seems resistant under saddle, identifying and addressing the ...

Choosing the right horse trainer is one of the most important decisions a horse owner can make. A skilled trainer not only teaches new skills but also shapes behavior, builds confidence, and helps keep both horse and rider safe. With so many training philosophies and methods available, finding the r...

The Dressage Pyramid of Training is a widely used framework that clearly and concisely outlines fundamental training concepts for developing a dressage horse. This training scale is typically depicted as a pyramid to illustrate that each step toward higher levels relies on a solid foundation of core...

Routine care like veterinary exams, farrier work, dentistry, and grooming are essential parts of keeping a horse healthy, but they can quickly become stressful or even dangerous if a horse won't stand calmly. Fidgeting, pulling away, pawing, or outright resistance not only make these procedures hard...

Halter training is one of the most important skills a horse learns, yet it is often rushed or oversimplified. A horse that understands the halter is safer to handle, easier to care for, and far less likely to panic during routine situations like veterinary visits, farrier work, or trailering. At its...

The Florida Cracker Horse is a rare and historically significant horse breed known for its deep roots in American heritage. Developed from Spanish horses brought to Florida in the 16th century, this breed played a vital role in the cattle industry and helped shape the identity of the Southeastern Un...

The Palomino horse is one of the most recognizable and widely admired coat colors in the equine world. With a striking golden body and light mane and tail, this equine color has long symbolized beauty, nobility, and prestige. However, unlike breeds such as the Friesian or Appaloosa, Palomino does no...

The Azteca horse is a striking blend of grace, power, and versatility. Known as the National Horse of Mexico or national horse of Mexico, it combines the proud Iberian heritage of the Andalusian with the rugged utility of the Quarter Horse and, in some cases, the historic resilience of the Mexican C...

The American Cream Draft Horse is a distinct draft breed known for their striking champagne coat, gentle temperament, and deep roots in American agricultural history. As one of only a few draft horse breeds developed in the United States, the American Cream Draft holds a unique place among heavy hor...

Centuries of selective breeding shaped the modern horse breeds we know and love. Today, the unique history and characteristics of each breed are maintained by organizations that establish rules defining which horses are eligible for official registration with the breed's studbook. Some registries ma...

Lactation is a vital process for broodmares, ensuring the survival and growth of foals by providing essential nutrients and immune protection. However, some mares experience abnormal or inappropriate lactation, producing milk outside the expected timeline—either too early, too late, or even when n...

Gestation in horses is a journey that requires care, knowledge, and preparation to ensure both the mare and foal remain healthy throughout the pregnancy. The average gestation period for a horse lasts around 340 days, though some mares may carry their foals for as few as 320 days or as long as 370. ...

Horse coat colors are highly diverse and carry historical, cultural, and even functional significance within many horse breeds. The colors and patterns that mark these breeds result from a complex interaction of several genes that geneticists have studied for centuries. Understanding the genetic ba...