HRL Publisher Barbara Godwin on a once-in-a-lifetime ride in Versailles, France
There’s no doubt spring and summer have been troubling for us all. COVID-19, riots, death, lost income, job instability, isolation: we are enduring a time in history like no other.
Still, positives have emerged! The world itself transformed while most activities shut down – panda bears mated in zoos for the first time in a decade, waters cleared in the Venice canals, smog disappeared. Plus, being “corralled” at home meant more time with your horse – social distancing is easy on horseback!
Also, today (August 18) is the centennial women’s right to vote, ratified in 1920! Read more about these amazing women in our special feature Celebrating The Women On Horseback Who Made It Possible For Women To Vote.
Unfortunately, financial difficulties have also impacted the horse world. Rescues like DreamCatcher and Horses Without Humans that depend on activities and donations are suffering – animal welfare is never cheap – and the controversies that plagued us before, like shipping horses to our borders for slaughter, still remain. If you can donate money or goods, that’s great; if not, a share on social media is free and gives these organizations important visibility!
With all the chaos surrounding us right now, Horse & Rider Living remains dedicated to the rights and dignity of all living creatures, human and horse alike – and we hope to be a respite from the noise, like a virtual trail ride in your favorite peaceful place.
How has the pandemic treated you? If you have a horse-related story to share, we’d love to hear from you!
Until our next update, we wish you clear skies and steady footing as fall grows nearer. Stay safe!
Image by JamesDeMers from Pixabay
