The February issue of Western Horse UK and Horsemanship Journal is out now!

In this issue we focus on breeding, how should you care for your broodmare, what should you think about first and what are the do's and don't if you want to breed a particular colour foal.

Hello and welcome to the first issue of 2021

As I write, it's been another damp week with threats of snow (I know for many of you it has), but thankfully the days are getting longer, and spring is around the corner. With that in mind our special feature is breeding. Are you considering breeding? Is colour a consideration for you? Have you thought through all the areas you should consider before breeding?

Breeding is a decision not to be taken lightly, but it's a very alluring thought to have a foal that you have bred, a foal which will be precisely what you want. Vet Nikki covers caring for your pregnant mare, and Stephanie talks us through the complex topic of breeding for colour.

In the spirit of getting ready for the year ahead, February saw the start of our 'Fit Horse Fit Rider' series with Zoe Hindle (Veterinary Physiotherapist) and Seonaidh Jamieson (Fitness & Mindset Coach). If you haven't already, join the pop-up Facebook group to watch live every Tuesday at 6pm, you can ask questions, get involved in the conversation and watch the replays (replays only available for a limited time).

As our lives continue to be hectic, I hope you can take a pause from your day and find a nice quiet and comfortable spot to read this issue. 

Stay safe and happy trails

Happy New Year! Welcome to the February issue of Horsemanship Journal.

With January behind us, and Groundhog Day fading, we are on the final furlong to springtime. This issue is bumper packed with articles to keep you motivated through the last of the mud and cold into warmer days.  

We have a fabulous new four-part series with Hanna Walton as she takes us through ‘Riley’s Rehab’ and we can see his mental, emotional, and physical journey as it unfolds. Watch out for a future ‘Chat with Kate’ to accompany this feature.

Jason Webb brings us the final piece in his series, this time focusing on ‘Direction before Collection,’ and Ross Cooper looks at bitless bridles. 

Helen O’Hanlon helps us prepare for a new horsey partner, and Freddy Steele takes us through his backing process with his young horses.

Don’t forget the HJ book club roundup, inspiration to expand your equestrian learning alongside our great features of course!

Stay safe and happy trails!

Kate