Here's an article I'm not even sure how to respond to. Slaughter of horses in U.S. could resume, in Missouri - STLtoday.com

"Earlier this year, state Rep. Jim Viebrock, R-Republic, introduced a bill designed to circumvent federal rules that prevent horse slaughter for human consumption and would enable horse processing facilities to open in Missouri. Viebrock says the legislation would jump-start the ailing equine industry, which pro-slaughter advocates say has been hurt by the recent closure of the country's three horse slaughterhouses."

And the justification?

"Since the closure, American kill buyers have instead sent horses to Mexico and Canada, where European-owned processing facilities fulfill steady demand from European and Japanese markets, and where horse meat retails for $10 a pound or more. Viebrock hopes his bill will restart the industry on American soil, specifically in Missouri, where horse slaughtering has not taken place in decades."

What industry does Viebrock hope to kick start? The horse industry or the horsemeat industry? They're not the same thing. What do you think of this issue? Leave your comments below.

Here's a question a reader sent me. Which leg do you use when turning? I learned that you turned your horse around your inside leg. But others train their horses to turn as they apply pressure to the outside leg. And there's arguments for and against each method.

Which leg do you use when you turn your horse. Or do you do something different altogether? Why do you use that particular method? What works and what doesn't? What would you suggest to someone just learning to ride, or wanting to train their horse? Leave your comments below.

Most of us have pretty common horse problems. Our horses bite or buck, won't be caught or things like that. But every once and while someone encounters a problem that it a mystery. Forum member Micksu is having such a problem with an elderly retired polo pony. The mare seems to be insecure in any place but on the top of a hill, and almost refuses to leave the spot to eat or drink.  She is losing condition and seems very unhappy. A vet has been consulted with no positive result. Of course, Micksu and her family are very upset to see this horse in such distress. Forum members are offering all the knowledge they have. I've suggested vision problems, and even speculated on mental problems. People develop mental illnesses, why not horses? Perhaps a very severe dental problem, or other infection might be a factor too. Do you have any ideas? Check out Micksu's post describing everything the mare is doing--Strange behaviour, please help - About Horses Forum. You can read the forum any time, but to reply you'll need to sign up. Don't worry, it only takes a moment and it's free.

This was going to be a poll, but polls only have the option of ten selections and there are twelve astrological sun signs so it wouldn't fit. I have to admit I'm pretty skeptical about the validity of astrology for people and horses. Horoscopes are fun to read, but is there a shred of truth in it? Many horse magazines have equine astrological forecasts. I don't know Trillium's birthdate, but comparing her personality to descriptions of sun signs, I'm going to guess she's a dependable, responsible Virgo like me. (Of course most horses are born between January and June. ) Thor was born April 6, and Sampler April 13, which makes them both fiery Aries. Do you know what sun sign your horse is? Is your horse's personality in line with its sign? Leave your comments below.