Horses Articles

Whenever the term "Western horse" is used, most people picture a rough-and-tumble rodeo - an event full of color but so full of danger, too, that no youngster would be permitted to enter the regular events. What few people realize is that many small, country horse shows have classes open to Western horses.

Lots of people want horses, but they often times stop before they get started looking for one because they think horses are incredibly expensive.

Have you ever been to a horse show and seen the sleek, shiny horses of every size and color performing at the peak of their splendor? If not, you don't know what you're missing. Come along now on a trip to the country and the wonderful world of the show.

Owning a horse can be an expensive proposition. Your life long dream of riding whenever you want on your own personal horse has been a reality. Now, unless you were raised around horses, you are probably in for the surprise of your life. Not just where to purchase horse supplies is important, but what you need to keep your animal safe and healthy is also very important.

You are now thinking-what are your crazy? Why would anyone purchase insurance on the average horse? You know that the special thoroughbreds, Arabian, and other special breeds are covered but why should you spend the money for your own horse?

There is no one breed of horses that are called miniature-this is just a term that is used to describe a horse that meets certain height requirements. Most breeds are measured in hands-where one hand equals four inches. However, minis are measured in inches or centimeters. They are measured from the ground to the base of the hairs on their mane.

You always wanted a horse when you were growing up and now that you are a successful adult, you have decided to take the plunge and purchase a horse. Keeping a horse is not possible today in most cities so you arrange to have it boarded and cared for at a local stable. So, where do start to learn about what it takes to have a healthy horse?

The Arabian horse has been called the most beautiful of all and he is unmistakable in character and appearance. It is the purest and oldest of all breeds and this variety has been carefully bred for thousands of years and there is evidence that dates them back over 4,500 years.

The American Paint Horse is a breed of horse that combines both the characteristics of a western stock horse with a pinto spotting pattern of white and dark coat colors. The paint horse is a descendant from the Spanish horses that were exported to the Americas in the 16th century and it became part of the herds of wild horses that roamed the Western deserts and plains.

Depending on breed, management and environment, the domestic horse today has a life expectancy of 25 to 30 years. It is uncommon, but a few horses live into their 40s, and, occasionally, beyond.