At Trot in Time, our horses are more than working partners — they are part of our family. Their wellbeing always comes first. We know that some of you have raised questions about the health of one of our horses, Willie, and about how our team cares for the herd. We want to take a moment to share some updates and reassure everyone in our community that our horses are in good hands.
Veterinary Check-In
On August 20th, our veterinarians came to thoroughly inspect our six Belgians. They visited both the farm, where they inspected four of our six horses, as well as our stations in the town of Lunenburg where they inspected our other two horses at work. They further drove the tour route with one of our team members to see exactly what was being asked of the horses during a work day. Each horse was evaluated for body condition, diet, workload, hoof health, and overall comfort. The full report has been shared with the Town of Lunenburg.
The veterinarians confirmed that each of our working horses are fit for their job and that all of their needs are being met under Nova Scotia’s Animal Protection Act. They noted the following: “They (the horses) were very personable and quiet to handle. They seemed quite trusting of humans. All of these factors indicate they are likely well treated by caretakers.”
Special attention was given to Willie, who has lost some weight this summer. The vets explained that it is common for stallions to lose condition when distracted by mares. He is on an enhanced diet with extra calories and, to support him further, his workload is being carefully monitored. Willie remains healthy and bright, and is expected to gain condition with time. They noted that all horses appeared sound and comfortable at a walk.
The vets also met two of our drivers, and noted that both appeared quite experienced.
Provincial Agricultural Inspector’s Visit
Earlier this summer, the Nova Scotia Department of Agriculture sent an inspector to observe the horses at both the farm and downtown. Here is what they found:
- The horses are in excellent health and of good weight, with proper veterinary and farrier care.
- The workloads are light and well within what is appropriate for horses of this size, always at the walk with breaks in between tours.
- The carriages are well maintained, correctly fitted, and easily within the pulling capacity of our Belgians.
- Horses enjoy ample pasture time, good feed, water, and excellent living conditions that allow for natural behaviours.
The inspector’s overall conclusion was clear: “I am confident that the horses are not overworked, are cared for and maintained in ways that mitigate distress, and if they were to show signs of distress, they would be immediately and adequately tended to.”
Our Commitment
We are grateful that both outside professionals and community members care about our horses. These visits from veterinarians and inspectors reassure us that our ongoing hard work in feeding, training, scheduling, and caring for our team is recognized.
We were especially honoured that the veterinarians chose to note in their report: “Overall, the owners of Trot in Time do seem genuinely committed to caring for the horses well and improving animal welfare. They were very transparent today and answered my questions eagerly. Since working with this business, they have been prompt to call about any concerns with the horses and we have maintained a good relationship.”
At Trot in Time, our horses are at the heart of everything we do. You’ll often see them happily munching hay between tours, ears pricked forward, or relaxing in our pastures with their friends. We are proud of our horses, proud of our drivers, and proud of the way this community continues to look out for them with such kindness.
