/ chuck / 13 March 2009 / Leave a comment

Before the invention of the automobile, a good horse was just about the only way to get around. Today, horses are more of a luxury, but they are no less loved by humans than they were a hundred years ago. While they are not the primary means of modern transportation, they still fill many roles, from pets to herding animals to racing athletes.

General Resources

Those interested in learning the basics about horses will appreciate these resources. They cover all of the basics, from information about finding your first horse to basic horse care and information for experienced equestrians.

Grand National betting: The Grand Nationals and betting on the beautiful horses while they race against each other in competition.

Horses at About.com - A frequently updated resource for horse owners and lovers

Ultimate Horse Site - Offers information about horses as well as games, stories, and graphics related to horses

Equiworld - Dedicated to equestrian sports and horses

Kids' Stuff

Kids seem to be drawn to horses in a special way. Perhaps it is the fact that they can be ridden, or perhaps it is the numerous horse related toys on the market. Regardless of the reason, kids who love horses will appreciate these kid-friend equestrian sites.

Horses 4 Kids - Has plenty of games and information about horses geared towards the younger age groups

Equestriann.com -Fun horse videos that are safe for kids

Ultimate Horse Fun - Offers information and games for kids about horses, and also allows kids to write their own informative articles and stories about the animals they love.

Veterinary Resources

Horse owners know how important a good horse veterinarian is to their animal's health and well being. When you need an answer to a health-related problem and your vet is not available, consider these resources:

General Veterinary Information -Offers a variety of equine health resources

HorseCentric - Offers information about horse health and choosing a vet

Horse Shoeing Resources

Horses that are frequently ridden on paved streets need to be shoed. Horseshoes protect the horse's hooves from cracking and breaking. For more information, see below:

Hoofcare.com - Offers information about horseshoeing

Shoes and Shoeing Articles from Horse and Hound - An extensive resource concerning shoeing and the benefits of shoeing your horse

Stable Management

Managing a stable full of horses, whether they are your own or those that belong to others, is a monumental task. Knowing how to store feed, ensure all horses get enough exercise, and manage the differing temperaments in the stable is essential, as these resources show:

Stable Management - An online magazine dedicated to those who care for multiple horses

Equisite Stable Management Information -Stable management information, including legal forms for leases

Horse Publications

Because the world of equestrian care and sport is so broad, there are multiple publications dedicated to these beautiful animals and their owners and riders, including:

Horse Illustrated - An on-line and off-line magazine dedicated to everything related to horses

Horse and Livestock Trader - Focuses on horses available for sale

Clubs and Associations

Whether you love western riding, rodeos, or dressage, there is an association or club out there dedicated to the type of riding you enjoy, including these:

National Barrel Horse Association - Dedicated to barrel riders and their horses

Club Equestrian - An online community for everyone who loves horses, whether or not they own them

United States Dressage Federation - Dedicated to professional dressage riders, trainers, and instructors

Breeds and Breed Associations

With over 260 breeds of horses officially on the record, it is no wonder that there are multiple breed associations out there. To find an association dedicated to your favorite breed, or to gather information on the various breeds, visit these sites:

Horse Breed Associations Online - An extensive list of breed-dedicated horse associations

Horse Show Central - A great resource for finding information about specific breeds and breed associations

Horse Racing

Horses are natural runners, and horse racing is a popular sport. To find more about this aspect of the horse world, visit these pages:

The Horse Racing Channel - An online magazine dedicated to the world of horse racing

National Thoroughbred Racing Association - The premier association for Thoroughbred racing

Horses for Sale

The Internet opens the world to those who are searching for a horse to buy. By not limiting yourself to your geographic area when you are searching, you can find the ideal animal. Try these searchable classifieds as you search:

EquineNow - An extensive online classifieds for horses and horse equipment

Horse Finders - Allows buyers to search an extensive database for the exact horse they want to buy

Stables- Boarding, Training and Instruction

If you are looking for a place to board your horse or have him trained, the Internet can help you locate someone in your area. Consider the resources:

Horse Boarding.com - Allows you to search for a boarding facility near your home

U.S. Horse Trainer.com - Search for a horse trainer in your specialty in your geographic area