The Lesson: Planning Ahead for Horse Care and Emergencies
I’ll be honest—preplanning has never been my strong suit.
I’ve stayed busy… very busy. But not all “busy” is productive. Sometimes it’s just a way to avoid slowing down long enough to focus on what really matters.
This season of life has been full of change, and I’m learning to take things one day at a time. I still believe in having goals and a bigger vision—but I’m finding that daily intention matters just as much.
And nowhere is that more obvious than when you have animals depending on you—especially in a place like Colorado.
Between wildfire risk, sudden weather shifts, and the realities of rural living, planning ahead for horse care and emergencies isn’t just helpful… it’s essential.
As I prepare for this trip, I’m stuffing hay nets, prepacking grain, and organizing chores so my husband Mark can manage while I’m away.
And it hits me…
This would all be easier if I had taken the time to plan ahead.
Simple Ways to Be Better Prepared in Colorado
This experience has reminded me how important it is to have a basic plan in place. Things like:
- Pre-measured feed and labeled grain bins
- Written feeding and care instructions
- Emergency contact numbers easily accessible
- A backup plan for chores if you’re unexpectedly away
- Evacuation considerations (trailer readiness, routes, contacts)
- Keeping your horse’s routine as consistent as possible
It doesn’t have to be complicated. Just intentional.
If you’re not sure where to start, there are some excellent resources available. One I recently came across is EquestriSafe, which offers practical tools and guidance specifically designed to help horse owners prepare for emergencies.
In a state like Colorado, where conditions can change quickly, having even a simple plan in place can make all the difference—and give you peace of mind knowing your horses will be cared for no matter what.
Where Horses Help Us the Most
One of the things I’ve always loved about horses is how they bring us back to center.
Chores, routines, quiet time in the barn—they break up the stress and give us space to think. No pressure. Just presence.
Even with the dry conditions and heat we’re already starting to see, there’s something special about those early mornings and late evenings in Colorado—the cooler air, the quiet, the connection.
In many ways, our horses remind us of what matters most.
And they depend on us to be ready.
Don’t Forget to Live Along the Way
Summer is coming.
There will be horse shows, trail rides, camping trips, and long rides under wide Colorado skies. Even with the heat, there are still those perfect windows—early mornings and late evenings—that remind us why we do this.
Those moments matter.
Our horses are meant to be enjoyed—not just cared for from a distance.
Life moves fast. Faster than we expect.
So ride your horse. Spend the time. Take in the view. Do the things that fill your soul.
And maybe… take a little time to plan ahead, too.
A Resource to Help You Stay Prepared
If you’re looking for trusted professionals, services, or events in Colorado and beyond, take a moment to explore the Horse Source Directory.
It’s a growing network designed to help horse owners connect with the people and resources they need—especially when planning ahead matters most.
I’m off to finish packing.
Wishing you a meaningful week—and safe rides ahead.
“It takes courage to grow up and become who you really are.”
— E.E. Cummings
Owner / Publisher | Canfield Certified Trainer
Karen Pickering is a lifelong horsewoman and the founder of The Northwest Horse Source, which began in 1995 as a small equine newsletter and grew into a respected industry publication. With more than 30 years of experience serving the horse community, Karen now focuses on helping equine businesses and organizations build visibility, credibility, and lasting relationships through online marketing, digital promotion, and educational platforms.
As a Canfield Certified Trainer, she blends proven success principles with real-world industry experience, supporting both businesses and individuals navigating change in today’s digital landscape. Karen remains deeply connected to the horse industry and is passionate about serving the community she has helped build for over three decades.
Today, Karen remains involved with every aspect of the magazine and treasures the community of thousands who share a common passion. Now excited to start a version of her original magazine in Colorado!