PAN baroque horses

Looking at having a logo. What do you think?

One can learn a lot as an auditor aswell. A weekend well spent

Doing a little “squat” work today trying to build up power and flexibility in the hind quarters to maybe get a capriole some day. Anyway some school halt and levade photos from the practice. Nono is starting to get some better angles in his hind leg joints.

Why are so many horses struggling with behavioral problems?

And why, instead of asking why these behaviors are happening, is so much of mainstream horse culture still focused on suppressing them — forcing compliance rather than seeking to understand the root cause?

Whether it’s pain, confusion, anxiety, or fear, these behaviors are symptoms, not the problem itself.

The evidence and research are readily available.

We know more now than ever about how horses think, feel, and learn.

We understand the impact of poor saddle fit, gastric ulcers, kissing spines, inconsistent handling, rushed training, and environments that don’t meet their basic needs.

So why is there still such resistance to evolving our practices and perceptions?

Why do outdated methods rooted in dominance and suppression persist, despite the wealth of knowledge pointing us toward more humane, evidence-based approaches?

We must question whether we can truly be proud of outcomes — whether ribbons, medals, or financial gain — if they come at the cost of a horse’s welfare.

Physical, mental, and emotional well-being must be non-negotiable.

Being a responsible, skilled owner, rider, trainer, or professional means holding ourselves accountable for the welfare of the horses entrusted to us.

At Equitopia, we are committed to changing the conversation.

Our membership program is paving the way with evidence-based protocols that support whole horse, whole rider welfare and performance.

We’re raising the standards for awareness, education, and advocacy for the horses who give us so much — yet so often suffer in silence due to ignorance or outdated thinking.

👉 Learn more at www.equitopiacenter.com and join us in becoming part of the solution.

The importance of good hoof care. If you want your horse to dance you have to make sure he’s got the feet to dance on. Pay that little extra for a good, educated farrier or barefoot trimmer. It is worth it!

Purebred Lipizzaner, medium level schoolmaster

Considering giving lessons and clinics Phoenix AZ and surrounding areas. Schoolmasters available for lessons at Dunns Arena. PM if interested