I read many vet books, magizines, and just about any other horse related items. Then I write down useful tips and diagrams that might help me in the future so I can be an Equine vet!
I read Horse Illustrated, Equus, and Horse and Rider magazines. I have a lot of Clinton Anderson dvds and books too!
RFDTV lots of great trainers John Lyons to Pat Parrelli and Clinton Anderson. Also great magazines Horse Illustrated and Horse and Rider plus I also annoy my farrier and many older generation riders that can give advice. I also read any book fiction and non fiction because they all have bits of information that is of great use
Honestly, I just learn other horse mentors! If you can accompany a trainer to a horse show or fox hunt, or hang around when the vet, farrier, or equine dentist comes, you can learn so much. I also take lessons, which helps me improve in my riding, and also my knowledge of horses, as my instructor is a walking encyclopedia. I hardly ever drive away from the barn not knowing something new and interesting.
When you love horses so much and want to know more about them and want to be able to know what to do and what things are, the two best thing you should do are to one:hang out at barns when the farrier or vet come and ask plenty of questions about things you don't understand.two:Read.Reading I'd say is one of the best ways because you can learn so much when someone can't just come up to you and tell you about it.
I take lessons, go to shows, and most importantly I set realistic goals for me and the horse I ride to achieve. It can be something as simple as getting her to pick up her feet easier. As long as we have a goal to reach for we can always improve.
I further my equine education 2 ways. First, I listen to my horse. He is more human than horse-like in his communication skills, and we're very comfortable with each other. He has no hesitation showing me a problem before I can physically see that there is a problem. Secondly, I figure the more I know, the safer my boys will be. I don't take anybody's word for it when it comes to my horses' health. I need to cross reference, research, and research.
I read as much information as possible and attend clinics in my area, although I dont take lessons I take the info from what is available and apply it at home.
I take a multi-faceted approach to my continuing equestrian education. First, I continue to take lessons whenever possible. My favorite lessons are those spent on the lunge line under the watchful eye of my Dressage coach. I'll also check in regularly with my old mentor, a long time breeder/trainer I spent three years apprenticing under. He's always full of great suggestions and insights to help me improve my riding or help me overcome a training hurdle. I also attend classes, seminars, and lectures sponsored by my local horseman's association and hosted by a local tack store. These events are commonly taught by some the best veterinarians, farriers, nutritionists, and trainers in my area. And of course I spend a lot of time on Horsechannel.com reading, watching online videos, and chatting in the forums!