It's not very often that I get to write a blog post about donkeys. Considering Simply Equestrian mostly deals with information relating to horses, such as advice about transportation, stabling, and proper equestrian clothing, these animals don't usually fall under our remit.
However, I recently came across a story in the Daily Telegraph which I just had to share – mostly because this particular donkey foiled a robbery.
According to the newspaper, this crime took place in a town called Juan de Acosta, located in the north Caribbean. The thieves plotted to rob a general store but they were lacking something to transport the goods – so they stole a 10-year-old donkey called Xavi.
After breaking into the store, the criminals had managed to take several items such as rum, oil, and rice. However, at some point during the theft it appears Xavi became distressed and started braying – attracting the attention of local police officers.
It seems the criminals had two choices; they could either stay with Xavi and the stolen goods or run before the police arrived.
They chose the latter.
After being taken to a police station, Xavi was eventually reunited with his owner. In addition, all the stolen goods were returned to the shopkeeper.
So, it seems this story has a happy ending for all those concerned. Well, except perhaps for the criminals. It looks like they really made asses out of themselves!

Photo © Jonathan.vail via Flickr under Creative Commons Licence

Labels: Daily Telegraph, donkey, equestrian clothing, horses, Juan de Acosta, north Caribbean, Simply Equestrian, stabling

No-one ever wants to be involved in a riding accident. Potentially, these incidents can result in life-changing injuries which may prevent individuals from completing their usual day-to-day tasks. Fortunately, these situations are relatively uncommon – possibly because quality riding hats might stop owners from being seriously harmed.

One horse rider who recently had a lucky escape was glamour model Katie Price. Reportedly, while participating in show jumping, Katie suffered a fall. Logging onto Twitter, the model stated she was feeling sore and had suffered two broken nails during the incident.

If these are the extent of her injuries, then Katie is very fortunate. Although there are no reports as to what sort of equestrian clothing she was wearing at the time, this apparel may have prevented her from suffering more serious harm.

As horse riding is one of Katie's biggest passions, I doubt this fall will keep her out of the saddle for long. Especially as she might only require treatment from a qualified manicurist.

Photo © Adrian Parnham via Flickr under Creative Commons Licence

Labels: equestrian clothing, horse riding, Katie Price, qualified manicurist, riding accident, riding hats, riding injuries, saddle, show jumping, Twitter