How often should you scoop out the kitty litter in your cat’s box? Well, that depends on your cat and you. However, there are some important things to know about the litter box and how often you change the cat litter.
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10 Tips To Find Your True Self
Living for yourself isn’t selfish, in fact it’s the complete opposite. Learning to trust and find your true self is how you can live your life to the fullest. It’ll bring in the right people and opportunities. Here are 10 tips for finding your true self.
Most Common Skin Stressors That Are Damaging Your Skin
It’s impossible to avoid everything that can be a skin stressor. Blemishes, lines and wrinkles are normal. There is no reason to be anti-aging, but that doesn’t mean we can’t age gracefully. The most common skin stressors might surprise you, but by being aware of them, might help you maintain that youthful glow a little while longer.
Everything You Need To Know Before Getting A Pet
Seeing pet owners on social media or out and about with their dogs make it seem like an easy life. However, having a pet requires a lot of commitment and work. There is a lot to consider and know before getting a pet.
Border Patrol Suspends Horse Patrols In Del Rio Texas
Photographs of Haitian refugees and migrants being pursued by border patrol agents on horseback spark huge outrage! Many are demanding an investigation and questioning why the agents were on horseback at all. Here is everything to know about the border patrols use of horses.
Tips for Whitening Teeth Naturally
Are your teeth aching after whitening strips or a bleaching treatment? Say goodbye to sore teeth with these tips for whitening teeth naturally!
Unlikely Heroes, Goats Prevent Wildfires
As wildfires worsen across the west, these animals are working to stop them in their tracks. Goats prevent wildfires in numerous ways, one of which is adorable!
Spotted Lanternfly – The Insect That Must Be Stopped
These little insects have made headlines, but for all the wrong reasons! Spotted lanternfly sightings have sparked fear all over the country due to their devastating affects on agriculture. Here is everything we know about these menacing bugs that must be stopped.
Organization Tips For Students & Adults
Say goodbye to clutter and the stress of not being able to find things with these organization tips. Watch as your life becomes so much easier with these simple tricks and tips.
Why Is My Dog Itchy But Doesn’t Have Fleas?
Is your dog itchy but doesn’t have fleas? Well, there could be several different reasons why your furry friend is itching like crazy. Here is everything you need to know as well as some treatment options for your itchy pup.
6 Animals Affected By Climate Change
The devastating hurricanes, extreme heatwaves and destructive wildfires are definitely affecting us humans, but what about all the other critters on Earth? How are the animals affected by climate change? Here are just some of the many animals that are feeling the affects of climate change and how you can help.
Energy Boosting Afternoon Hacks
Our most efficient and active hours of the day are the first 4-6 after waking up. Carry that energy with you into your afternoon with these energy boosting afternoon hacks.
High protein Vegan foods
Protein is something we can all use! It is the building blocks for a healthy body. But how can you get protein if your vegan or vegetation? Here is our list of high protein vegan foods!
Rescuing Animals From The Taliban – How To Help
Paul “Pen” Farthing” is rescuing animals from the Taliban invasion in Kabul, Afghanistan. Here is everything you need to know on Operation Ark and how you can help.
Flooding in Tennessee – A Clear Sign Of Climate Change
The flooding in Tennessee is just one of many clear signs of climate change rapidly increasing. It’s telling us that whether you are coastal or inland, there will be negative impacts. If you’re doubting climate change, this is a wake up call.
Are You Mindlessly Eating?
There are so many reasons why and when we eat food, but what’s the difference between mean mindful and mindlessly eating?
Climate Change – It’s Now or Never
Climate change is here and it’s increasing at alarming rates. The IPCC report says it’s now or never. We must take immediate action to decrease global heating and prevent disaster. Here is everything you need to know.
Does Weather Affect Our Bodies?
Some of us may get headaches or joint pain before a rainy day, but why is that? Why does weather affect our bodies? Here is the answer to the question and how you can prepare yourself for potential aches and pains.
A Healthy Morning Routine – How To Start Your Day Right
Starting your day off right with a healthy morning routine is necessary for maintaining a good mood. But how can you create the perfect morning routine? Here are some tips and tricks to get you waking up on the right side of the bed.
Is My Dog Happy? – 20 Signs
Are you asking yourself “is my dog happy?”. Just like humans, animals have emotions. Here are 20 signs that will tell you whether or not your dog is happy and how you can improve their mood!
Foods That Boost Energy & Foods To Avoid
Skip the new diet, the cleanse and the fasting! Simply add foods that boost energy into your regular routine and avoid foods that drain you. Here is a list of all the foods that will increase the energy in your life!
Different Types Of Acne & How To Treat Them
Blemishes, zits, breakouts, whatever you call them, there are many different words to describe acne. Knowing the different types of acne is a challenge, but we’ve made it straight forward.
20 Reusable Items That’ll Save You Money & Reduce Waste
These reusable items will help you reduce, reuse and recycle with ease! In an effort to become more conscious about how we consume, this list will provide you with all sorts of goodies. Not only will they make your life easier, but greener as well!
Keep Pets Cool In A Heatwave With These 12 Tips
Keep pets cool in a heatwave this summer with these helpful tips. Animals get hot and bothered too, so don’t forget to take care of your furry friends!
The Equestrian Capital, Wellington Florida and Everything You Need To Know
Who would have thought, the equestrian capital of the world, would be little Wellington Florida? The whose who in the equestrian industry comes down for the season to partake in Grand Prix shows or events at the Polo club. Here is everything you need to know about Wellington Florida.
Russian Equestrian Hospitalized After Riding Accident
Inessa Merkulova is in a medically induced coma following an accident that took place in Germany.
Inessa Merkulva has had a successful 20 year career as a Grand Prix dressage rider representing her country, Russia. She has competed in 5 World Equestrian Games, 5 Dressage World Cups and 3 European Dressage Championships. She was chosen as fan favorite at Rio after sharing her pre-competition prep which consists of reading her horse, Mister X, Fifty shades Of Grey. Mister X and Merkulva were awarded best pair at the Equestrian Federation of Russia Awards in 2018.
Most recently, she qualified to compete at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. This was the first time since 1992 Barcelona Olympics that Russia had a qualifying team. Additionally, they were the only Russian team for all 3 of the equestrian disciplines to qualify at the 2020 Olympics.
In January of 2020, the 55 year old fell off her horse at her facility in Germany. She spent 4 weeks in an induced-coma. Although she did not have any head trauma, she severely injured her chest. She had several fractures and a bilateral pneumothorax. She was not permitted to move and therefore doctors put her into an artificial coma.
By March, she was sent to a rehabilitation center in Hamburg. Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, she was able to return to Germany and further her recovery. As of April, Innessa has not been able to return to the saddle, but is walking and going on short runs to help her regain her strength.
Fast forward to the Tokyo 2020 Olympics where Inessa was able to compete for the Russian Dressage team. She went on to place 31st individually and placed 12th in the team competition. A truly remarkable recovery from Inessa.
The Importance Of Core Protection
Just like Inessa Merkulova, many have faced serious injuries to their neck, spine, chest, ribs, tailbone and even inner organs. Many of these unfortunate accidents have resulted in death and permanent disability.
It shines light on the importance of protecting your core. In disciplines like eventing and cross-country, rigid protectors are often mandatory. However, they don’t offer optimal protection of vital areas. Recent technological advancements have brought personal airbag systems for equestrians. Many riders, even in dressage, are opting for these air vests.
Not only do they protect you from neck to tailbone, they lesson the impact and prevent whiplash. Many of them are meant to be worn in addition to a rigid protector and of course, a helmet. Although these air vests are an investment with prices ranging from several hundred to a thousand, they are crucial for protection. Whether you are a recreational rider, training or in competition, maintaining safety is of the upmost importance.
Tiggy Hancock – Rising Equestrian Star’s Tragic Death
The death of an exceptionally talented young person, hit the equestrian community like a ton of bricks. The inspiring and ambitious Tiggy Hancock met a tragic end while doing what she loved most – riding her ponies.
Tiggy Hancock was just 15 years old when she passed away. She only began eventing in the fall of 2018 and she was described as a “rising star in showjumping events.” Tiggy was from Bagenalstown, Co Carlow in Ireland, where she was able to grow up riding horses. From a very young age, Tiggy was part of the equestrian community. She was part of the Kilkenny Hunt Pony Club and became a successful hunter pony competitor.
Horse Sport Ireland said “Tiggy was a highly talented young athlete and a respected member of our pony high performance eventing programme. She only began eventing in 2018 and made an immediate mark on the sport.”
Through her career, she was chosen to represent Ireland at the under-16 European Team Championships held in Poland. At the event, Tiggy and her team received a bronze medal.
Recently, Tiggy gained even more respect from her community and senior equestrians. At the Coppenagh Spring Sparrow, she was able to place just outside the podium. Thus beating out seasoned athletes who have competed at global levels.
“Everyone in the society is shocked and saddened by the untimely death of one of our beloved members, Tiggy Hancock. The IPS wishes to extend our deepest sympathies to her family and many friends.” A statement posted on Facebook from The Irish Pony Society.
Tributes and condolences poured in for the young equestrian and her family. Many members of the community are devastated at such a tragic death of a young person with exceptional abilities.
How Did Tiggy Hancock Die?
Tiggy died On Wednesday, June 16th 2021, after a devastating accident at Greenogue, Dublin during a squad training event. It has been said that at a jump, Tiggy fell from a horse jump and was severely injured.
She was taken to Our Lady’s Hospital in Crumlin but unfortunately passed away. As support for her friends, family and team mates pour in, a police investigation is underway.
The family made a request for privacy and has not disclosed the exact cause of death.
A friend took to Facebook to express their condolences “Her passion for her ponies and horses could not be unmatched, but more so the truly inspiration little lady that is Tiggy touched so many lives giving only joy with that huge smile that always beamed from her. We all miss you Tiggy Hancock, you have taken a piece of all of our hearts. We hope you are in you ultimate pony heaven.”
How Dangerous Is Eventing?
Eventing is an equestrian event that involves 3 disciplines: dressage, show jumping and cross-country. A mastery of all these disciplines is required not only by the rider, but horse as well.
Eventing is considered on of the more risky disciplines within the equestrian sport. It can be very dangerous because it requires extensive training in 3 different categories.
Dressage being the least risky and cross-country being the most risky. In a cross-country event, riders must travel through fields at high speeds on horse back, jumping over natural and stages obstacles. Some jumps do not come apart which can cause of serious injuries. If a horse hits, stumbles or spooks during show-jumping or cross-country the rider could be ejected from the horse which can cause serious injury. Additionally, riders can be crushed, kicked or trampled after falling from a spooked horse.
In cross country it is often mandatory to wear body protectors. These are foam vests that help absorb any impact from a fall. However, they only protect a small portion of the body and don’t protect against potential crush. An option many eventers opt for are air vests. These vests go over the body protector and some even are compatible with show jackets to be worn in all events. In the event of a fall, the air vest deploys an airbag that inflates before ground impact.
Combining an air vest and body protector is an equestrians best defense against potential injury.
Equestrian Air Vests: Should You Wear One?
The topic of equestrian air vests has entered many the conversation for riders all over the world. Many of us know a person who has delt with serious injury, whether it’s from a sport or an accident. Helmets are normalized amongst riders but should air vests be as well?
In disciplines like cross-country, riders are required to wear a ASTM/SEI-certified body protector and a helmet. Although the removal of permanent obstacles like water and bank jumps has reduced the risk of injury, there is always a chance.
A popular argument is that although newer protective equipment may be helpful, it could also give riders a false sense of security. This could then lead them to participate in activities that may be beyond their skill level. Snowboarders with helmets may decide to go faster or do larger jumps. Despite lower risk of head injury, the risk of other related injuries could increase.
Should you wear an equestrian air vest?
Although they aren’t required, the added safety measure can boost the confidence of any rider. However, will this make riders more daring and try things way outside the scope of their abilities?
Know Your Limitations And Understand Any Risk
Everyone is different. This means that everyone has a different health and risk outline. An injury occurring to a 60 year old will be very different than that of a 20 year old. A tough horse may be easier to ride by someone with 20+ years experience than a rider with only 3 years experience. Additionally, all disciplines carry their own set of risk as well. Cross-country and dressage are two completely different sports and pose much different risks. How much safety equipment, aside from a helmet, should a rider depend on? This depends on the riders abilities, experience and risk preference.
Although research is ongoing, equestrian air vests have shown that they provide significant protection from injuries. However, a protective air vest is no substitution for understanding the rider or the horse’s limitations. Additionally, using a vest or protective jacket shouldn’t give a rider a false sense of confidence that pushes them too far past their abilities. Protective gear does not make a better athlete.
What Role Will Equestrian Air Vests Play In The Future?
Should airbag vests be mandatory for competitions just as riding helmets are? Equestrian air vests are an investment, good quality and reliable ones are not cheap. The prices range from $300 to $1000 for trusted brands. These protective garments are an extra layer of clothing and some may be bulky or difficult to wear. These vests protect against injuries, but there is always a risk. Currently, riders who wear air vests can determine when and in which circumstance the vest is needed.
Studies have shown that safety equipment and advancements in technology or design continue to reduce the risk of serious injury. The United States Hunter Jumper Association (USHJA) has promised to $100,000 to sponsor new helmet studies. Additional studies on the efficacy of air vests should be conducted to help inform riders about their choices in safety gear. The more data available means better and more informed decisions can be made.
As more manufacturers reduce cost and create better designs, we will begin to see more riders using this equipment. Additionally, as the benefits of these protective airbag vests become more known, we can expect more and more riders voluntarily wearing them.
There has been heaps of progress within the last 10 years alone in regards to protective equipment – especially with airbag technology. This shows that steps are being taken to protect riders and athletes. It is undeniable that air vests add an extra layer of protection, but it is crucial to remember that safety does not eliminate risk. Improvements can be made to increase safety measures but it really comes down to the riders abilities and limitations.
Can Wild Horses Prevent Wildfires in the West?
Many of us are seeking solutions to climate change and the wildfires that grow in devastation each year. Since we have seen goats help out, some are wondering can wild horses prevent wildfires?
3-Day Equitana Event Coming Soon!
The worlds largest equestrian trade show and exhibition is coming to Kentucky, this October! Here is everything you can expect to experience at the Equitana event.
This October, only a week away, the worlds largest equestrian trade show and exhibition is coming to the United States. At the show, you’ll be able to get your hands on the latest products from equipment, apparel, care supplies, gifts and a lot more. Additionally, there is plenty of opportunities to meet the industries leading professionals and daily entertainment.
Equitana is the biggest horse fair in the world. They first began in 1972 as “one man show” and over the years has transformed into a world trade fair. The newest edition of Equitana is taking place this October in Kentucky following the success of Equitana Australia and Equitana New Zealand.
Here is everything you need to know about the 3-day Equitana event.
Where, When, How Much?
The 3-day Equitana event will be held at the Kentucky Horse Park from October 1st to 3rd, 2021. There a wide variety of tickets to choose from:
- All 3 days, one adult ticket is $70 and for one child ticket it is $25
- For single day tickets, one adult ticket is $27, while one child ticket is $10
- All 3 days for military or first responders, one adult ticket is $35
- For single day tickets for military or first responder, one adult is $13.50
Get your ticket HERE!
What Will The 3-Day Equitana Event Consist Of?
The 3-day Equitana event is full of exhibits, classes, and entertainment. This is what Equitana Kentucky will consist of:
171 Exhibits
This event will be housing 171 exhibits that consist of boutique shops, services, equipment and much more. Many of the exhibits will be from companies all over the world that participate in other Equitana events. You will discover sustainable companies, accessories, stable management, breed associations and more!
Master Classes & Clinics
Along with the exhibits there will be classes and clinics. From show jumping clinics, dressage, eventing and more. There is tons of education and informational classes to attend at the event. Even if you are new to the equestrian world, there will be plenty to see and learn.
Demos & Education
In addition to clinics and classes, there are many other educational events taking place at the Kentucky Equitana. You will be able to find demonstrations and educational exhibits for horsemanship, equine behavior, health, emergency handling, veterinary care, new up and coming disciplines and even panels where you can ask questions to industry professionals.
Are You Going To The USA Equitana Event?
There is a lot to see and experience at this years Kentucky Equitana 3-day event! Are you going to grab a ticket for you and your family?
Does Childhood Trauma Affect Adulthood?
Many of us experienced forms of trauma in our younger years but how does childhood trauma affect adulthood? Here is how it affects us later in life and ways you can treat it.
How To Write Journal Entries For Mental Health
Journaling has so many benefits for mental and emotional health. However, It can be intimidating putting your thoughts onto paper. Here is all you need to know for how to write journal entries for mental health.
How To Make Vegan Sausages At Home
Plant-based food can get pricey, but we are here to teach you how to make vegan sausages at home. Not only is this recipe easy, it’s tasty as well!
18 Effects Alcohol Has On The Body & Brain
A few drinks here and there is fun and all, but do you know the effects alcohol has on the body and brain? Even drinking in moderation can lead to serious health problems.
What To Do If Your Cat Is Panting
It isn’t everyday we see that our cat is panting, which can cause us to worry. Although it isn’t a common occurrence, it might be an indication of something. Here is everything you need to need to know and what to do if your cat is panting.