Ghosting: The practice of ending a personal relationship with someone by suddenly and without explanation withdrawing from all communication.

I am a big fan of ghosting out of a party, otherwise known as the Irish goodbye. But what about ghosting in the horse community? 

I have been involved in the horse world on various levels for the last 20 years as a professional. A jack-of-all-trades, I braid, clip, coach, ride, and pretty much do whatever it takes to fund my addiction to riding. I have always strived to do my best and to ensure that anyone who pays me for a service is happy, but I am far from perfect. I understand the nature of the business, people come and go, and I also understand that sometimes things are just no longer a fit for various reasons. What I don’t understand is people just disappearing with no explanation.

Photo: Canstock/Amalga

The horse industry is a unique one, one that can often be full of drama, egos, and complicated emotions. But I hope that overall, we can welcome open and honest communication as we would in any other professional industry. And it works both ways – professionals need to be treating clients like actual clients. Far too often it seems people forget that clients are paying for a luxury service and that should involve a certain level of customer service and attention. But on the other hand, professionals deserve respect, and at the very least a little open communication and consideration.

We are all (hopefully) in the horse industry for the same reason: we love horses. And if we work together, we can make it a better place for those horses and for ourselves as well, whether we’re a paying client, a weekend warrior, or a professional at any level of the game. It might involve some uncomfortable or even awkward conversations, but having those talks is far better than not, and leaving it up to speculation for both parties, or even worse, burning your bridges. 

Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.

Main photo: Soul Touch Photography