Curious Equestrian

• When It's Time to Say Goodbye: Horse Euthanasia & Grief Support

  Losing a horse is one of life's most devastating experiences—yet it's often a loss society doesn't fully recognize. In this episode, we explore euthanasia options, what to expect, grieving, and where to find support when nobody around you understands.Sophie Cookson King from Blue Cross walks us through the difficult decisions horse owners face: When is it time? What are the methods? How do I prepare? And how do I cope with the grief afterwards?Topics covered:Lethal injection vs. gunshot euthanasiaWhat happens during the procedurePreparing in advance (the responsible thing to do)Disenfranchised grief: why horse loss feels so isolatingSupporting your remaining horsesTalking to children about lossThe rising cost of living crisis forcing tough rehoming decisionsGetting another horse after lossFree Blue Cross support servicesBlue Cross Pet Loss Support:If you or someone you know is struggling with horse loss, Blue Cross offers free, confidential support:📞 Helpline: 0800 096 6606 (8:30 AM - 8:30 PM, 365 days/year)💬 Web Chat: bluecross.org.uk/pls📧 Email: [email protected] episode is for anyone facing the loss of a horse, considering euthanasia, grieving a beloved companion, or supporting someone through this journey.Your loss is real. You're not alone.

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• Bonfire Season is Here - What Every Horse Owner Needs to Know

  In this episode, Ruth from Blue Cross breaks down everything you need to know about keeping your horse safe during firework season—from practical preparation to handling those tricky neighbor conversations.If fireworks stress you out, this episode is for you. Share your experiences in the comments—let's learn from each other.For more advice and resources, visit Blue Cross:https://www.bluecross.org.uk/advice/horse/horses-and-fireworks

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• Going Back to Basics to Become a Better Horse Person with Josie

  Horse trainer Josie joins us to explore why going back to basics isn't a step backward but a continuous spiral of deeper understanding. In this thoughtful conversation, we discuss how ego creates barriers to learning, why basics form the foundation even for Grand Prix movements, and how understanding the way horses learn transforms our approach to training.Josie shares her personal journey from authoritarian training to partnership, including honest reflections on having "obedient but dull horses" and learning to allow expression and joy. We explore the concept of horses as sentient beings rather than beasts of burden, the importance of reading body language, and why there truly are no shortcuts in good horsemanship.From her work with Willie the Cob to insights about learning theory and pressure and release, Josie emphasizes that returning to basics reveals new layers of understanding each time. We also touch on social media's impact on horsemanship, the historical context of training methods, and why balance - both physical and emotional - underlies everything.A conversation about humility, continuous learning, and making the world a better place for horses.Guest Bio — Josie Matthews is a professional horse trainer who breaks down horse training into simple, easy-to-understand steps, ensuring clarity and confidence for both riders and their horses.▶️ Watch More from Josie:    / @basichorsetraining  📘 Free Training Guide: https://www.basichorsetraining.com/f/...🌐 Website: BasicHorseTraining.com

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• Why Slowing Down Might Be the Fastest Way to Train Your Horse

  What happens when you throw out everything you've been taught about horse training and try the complete opposite?Diana Waters went from traditional BHS instructor training to building a 22,000-member community around one radical idea: slowing down instead of pushing forward.In this episode, Diana reveals her "slow walk work" method that's quietly transforming how horse owners approach training, rehabilitation, and building genuine partnerships with their horses.Connect with Diana:Website: thepowerofwalk.comYouTube  @responsiveequine5569  Facebook Group: Slow Walk Work (22,000+ members)

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• Is Your Horse Too Fat? A Vet's Guide To Weight Management

  Why is obesity one of the biggest killers of horses? In this eye-opening episode, veterinarian Katie reveals the shocking truth about equine obesity, with 40% of UK leisure horses classified as overweight. From practical solutions like grazing muzzles to track systems, discover how to spot weight issues and take action. Katie shares candid insights about client conversations, showing world influences, and why modern horse keeping poses unique challenges. Learn why this crisis could devastate our equine population if left unchecked, and get actionable tips for keeping your horse at a healthy weight. Essential listening for every horse owner who wants to ensure their equine partner's long-term health and happiness. 🐎 #HorseHealth #EquineObesity #VetAdvice #HorseManagementAbout Dr Katie KershawKatie is an RCVS Advanced Practitioner in Equine Internal Medicine at Ryder-Davies & Partners Veterinary Practice. She joined the practice in 2012 after qualifying from Bristol Vet School, and has since developed extensive expertise in equine health, preventive care, and obesity management. Alongside her equine work, Katie also has a keen interest in small holdings, especially sheep and goats.🔗 Learn more: Ryder-Davies Equine Services

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