Maryland Horse Expo

We went to the Maryland Horse Expo this weekend at the Fairgrounds in Timonium. It was the first time I got to go to the horse expo as a horse owner--last year we went so I could longingly gaze at all the stuff. Even though I could have legitimately bought something, I still left empty handed. Probably for the best!

Sweet sign, right?

There were several events taking place in the various arenas, including a horse variety show (where a black horse and a white horse tromped around to epic music) and a clinic on how to train unbroke horses.

Mounted, for the first time!

It was all very educational. The real reason for going to the expo, though, is to check out all the things for sale. Even if you aren't planning on buying anything it's fun to look at the sheer volume and variety of all the things.

Pony toys!

So many boots.

Dog treats. (Don't tell Locksley we didn't get any!)

Aside from the consumerism, there are rescue groups and other horse related groups. HorseNet Horse Rescue was there, and we dropped by to say hi. We also visited the Draft Horse rescue.

Twins?

At one of the rescue groups they had sections of over-grown hooves, a matted horse's tail, a horse skull, and the cross section of a hoof with navicular disease. It's amazing to see the condition some horses arrive to rescues in, and their resilience when they recover into healthy, happy ponies.

There was loads to learn at the expo. I was happy to come across an organization passionate about horses pulling carriages--with a nod to their historic relevance. They had this one-horse, vintage looking carriage set up in their booth.

Classy hat, not included.

I also did some homework on things like saddle pads, saddles, and bitless bridles. There didn't seem to be a lot of deals to be had on the things I was interested in so it looks like the internet will be my friend of purchasing. All the same, it was a fun afternoon and all the stimulating and people watching was pretty good.

The beginnings of a life-long pony addiction.