American Horse Council Podcast

July's episode features Bret Maceyak of PATH International chatting with the AHC team about miniature horses as service animals under the American Disabilities Act. Fascinating conversation about these little dynamos and all the ways they can be the perfect partners. Also, the  AHC team touches base on three timely topics - release of new horse stamps from USPS (they are going fast!), two nat...

Learn all the fascinating facts about Mules and Donkeys! Out of 6.6M equids in the US there are over 300,000 mules and donkeys – they serve many in many roles from trail riding, showing and pulling carts. Hear from our “expert” Dr. Amy McLean of UCDavis who has spent a lifetime studying mules and donkeys. HORSES IN THE MORNING Episode 3446 –Show Notes and Links: Your Hosts: Julie Broadway (Preside...

May is Adopt a Horse Month, and according to the Equine Welfare Data Collective, there can be anywhere up to 40,000 horses waiting for adoption in the United States each year. From off-track Thoroughbreds to retired broodmares or even donkeys or ponies looking for a new pasture, it seems like you can find an adoptable horse, pony, or donkey to fit whatever your needs somewhere in the United States...

Spring has sprung and we’re ready to hit the trails! Are you? Heidi Melocco joins Julie and Megan to talk about Horse Trails of America as we talk about how horse enthusiasts are joining together to help grow a network of trail riding information with a searchable map and active Facebook community. Heidi shares some trail riding tips for what to pack for the trails and how to find the best trails...

Julie and Megan step into the transformative world of equine-assisted learning. In this episode, we delve into what equine-assisted learning is all about, and how it can profoundly impact personal growth and development. Join us as we uncover the unique bond between humans and horses and discover the incredible benefits this innovative approach offers for mental health, emotional well-being, and p...

The United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) Board President Tom O’Mara joins Julie and Megan to discuss a variety of topics including the 2024 USEF Annual Meeting, social licensing and the future for equestrian sport in the United States. As Board President of the USEF, O’Mara shares the strategic plan for the association and how important it is for horse owners and enthusiasts to follow the fe...

There are 34 million horse enthusiasts in the United States, yet only 1.3% own a horse and 16% participate in the industry, but don’t own horses. How do we bridge the disconnect so the horse industry can grow? This is the answer that the American Horse Council’s Marketing Alliance is hoping to find with their new initiative, “Here For Horses.” You’ve heard us sign off that we’r...

Think about it: If you grew up with horses, how do you think they influenced your life today? Julie and Megan talk with PhD candidate Caitlin Lunzmann, who is currently studying at the University of Florida and looking at that very question. Her thesis focuses on studying the impacts of horse experiences on youth development in terms of leadership, emotional intelligence, and social skills. She’s...

Is it possible to be simultaneously passionate about winning a competition and the welfare of the horse? This is the question Adam Snow and Dr. Shelley Onderdonk ask in their latest book published by Trafalgar Square, and the question Julie and Megan are asking listeners. We share stories of Adam’s polo career and how he learned, along with wife and veterinarian Dr. Shelley, how to get the most ou...

According to a 2019 American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) Equine Economic Survey Report, most equine veterinarians knew they wanted to be a vet before the age of 10. So many choose this career path because of a calling they felt, and a passion and love for the horse. Still, many areas of the United States and beyond currently face a shortage of equine practitioners to provide veterin...

In recent months, several surveys have been circulated regarding the U.S. horse industry. The American Horse Council’s Equine Economic Impact Survey is one that has been active since April and will be wrapping up September 29. This survey, done once every five years, has been used by hundreds of local and federal groups, horse associations and horse owners to support their industry in times of nee...

Horse owners are some of the biggest supporters of the environment. They understand the importance of green space, access to fresh water and mild temperatures to ride. Julie and Megan speak with two Colorado State University students who presented their research on how one show facility in Helsinki, Finland, is utilizing its own occupants’ waste for power—that’s right: Manure for Electricity. Then...

In this episode, Julie and Megan speak with three women who are working to help horse owners and horse enthusiasts help horses in need. Brittney Vallot highlights the amazing work that Days End Farm Horse Rescue and the Maryland Equine Transportation Service has done for the Maryland area since it was established in 1989. Dr. Stacie Boswell has a strong interest in the behavior and welfare of the...

The second episode of the American Horse Council edition of Horses in the Morning shines a spotlight on the youth of the horse industry. Julie and Megan speak with the president of the U.S. Pony Clubs, Jennifer Sweet, and the Executive Director of Amplify Horse Racing, Annise Montplaisir. We learn more about how the organizations work with children and young adults to introduce the horse and encou...

The first episode of the American Horse Council edition of Horses in the Morning goes Western when Julie and Megan speak with Russell True from White Stallion Ranch. The history and enticement of dude ranches is discussed and how the family-centric vacation can help preserve the American West and benefit the equine industry. The first AHC Legislative Update shares information on the latest happeni...