Horses have always been part of Canada’s history, helping people traverse vast landscapes, work the land, and support law enforcement across the country. In 1873, the Canadian government established the North-West Mounted Police to bring law and order to the Western territories, curb illegal whiskey trading, and support Canadian sovereignty during westward expansion.

Running a family farm or ranch can be both demanding and rewarding. For these three Canadian families, the challenges of farm life are balanced by the many benefits of working together as a family.

A Grand Prix Person - To describe the qualities of dressage in romantic terms is to speak of patience made visible, strength softened by grace, and discipline guided by empathy. In this artful discipline, every step is a promise kept, every transition a whispered conversation, and every moment a reflection of harmony and partnership born from time, devotion, and love — qualities that become unmistakably evident when speaking with Sheila Skene, who so beautifully embodies them all.

People often say, “a horse needs a job,” as though life as an equine couldn’t be complete without trotting into the office occasionally. Historically, horses really did take on essential work, from carrying soldiers into battle to driving the gentry around town (as anyone who’s watched The Gilded Age knows.) Even in our own times, when horses are less necessary for most human activities, they’re still sometimes pressed into service. Of course, it helps if a horse is well-suited to their assigned occupation. So, before recruiting a horse for any of the following positions, consider some of the necessary qualifications.