Whats Inside : RCTC`s Equine Science Program Alfalfa the True
Transcription
Whats Inside : RCTC`s Equine Science Program Alfalfa the True
Stop by to visit our satff and “Author”Anna Blake, Pick up one of her New Books See us at booth Number #2304 Stop by to visit us at our booth Number #C154 SScan our Code to Read Horse N’ Around Online ☛ Whats Inside : RCTC’s Equine Science Program ● Alfalfa the True Story ● ● Lynn Palm, Western saddle and dresage saddle ● Missy Wryn “Help” Horse’s & Autism ● Charles Wilhelm’s Super Horse ● Level Tow Ride Systems - installation guide ● Minnesota Horse Expo - Getting Ready ● USRider - Trailering with or without a blanket March 2016 All Breeds & Disciplines Magazine www.equinemonthly.com Cover Photo: Don Moore, Super Horse Champion - Pomona 2015 Pg 4: Rochester Community Pg16: Wrongful Death Technical College Equine Science Program Rate My Ride Empowers Farriers By: Jeff Cota Pg18: Ultimate Super Pg 6: Saddles, Western and Dressage Palm Partnership, By Lynn Palm. Horse Challenge Charles Wilhelms Pg 21: Minnesota Horse Expo Save the Dates Pg 7: Traveling with or with out a Blanket US Rider Pg 22&23: My Horse is Trying to Kill Me By: Missy Wryn Pg 8&9: Level Tow Systems Installation Guide By: Ride Tech Pg10&12: Alfalfa, the Truth By: Dr. Juliet M. Getty Pg14&15 Horses & Autism “Oscar and Charlie” By: Charlie Avent Pg24: A Great Year for 1.8 Million Equines The Brooke Pg27: Calendar of Events Like to add a club event or outing please give a call or drop us an e--mail at [email protected]. Equine Monthly LLC. PO Box 217 Osseo, WI 54758 715-695-3976 www.equinemonthly.com For Advertising & Information, E-mail [email protected] 2 March 2016 Horsen Around Magazine ADVERTISER INDEX Arena Trailer Sales . . . . . . . . . . .Pg25 Aspen Gold . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Pg7 Bureau of Land Management . . . .Pg5 Blue Seal KNG Dynasty Feeds . . .Pg28 Down Under Horsemanship . . . . .Pg17 Harwood Trenching . . . . . . . . . . .Pg17 K-Fence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Pg16 Lynn Palm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Pg23 Level Tow by Ride Tech . . . . . . . .Pg21 Marth Wood Shavings . . . . . . . . .Pg13 Midwest Cremation . . . . . . . . . . .Pg26 Minnesota Trail Riding Assoc . . .Pg12 Minnesota Horse Expo . . . . . . . . .Pg20 Northland Buildings . . . . . . . . . .Pg16 Perfect Pastures . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Pg26 Service Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . .Pg26 - Bjerga Feed Store - Reichert Saddlery & Farm Supply Sundby’s Trailer Sales . . . . . . . . .Pg19 Schatzlein Saddlery . . . . . . . . . . .Pg27 Twin cities Horse Sales . . . . . . . . .Pg11 Triple Crown . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Pg3 Horsen Around carries advertising as a service to its subscribers and its readers. The staff does not in any way, whether expressed or implied, commit to guaranteeing or warranting any of the merchandise or livestock advertised. Advertiser profiles are paid advertisements and Horsen Around and its staff do not take responsibility for any content therein. Any questions or concerns should be directed to the advertiser. Accuracy of material and information included in articles is the responsibility of the submitter. Articles submitted may be edited due to space availability. Horsen Around assumes no responsibility for damages or loss of material submitted for publication, although due care will be taken to ensure the safety and return of materials if all pictures are clearly marked on the back as to owner and a SASE is enclosed. Horsen Around is responsible for errors appearing in ads only to the extent of correcting the same in the next issue in space equal to the items involved. Space reservation deadline for advertising and manuscripts is the 10th of the month prior to cover date. Horsen Around has the right to edit any submitted stories or articles due to space limitations. Unsolicited material is welcome although Horsen Around will not accept responsibility for the return of such materials. No part of this issue may be reproduced by any mechanical, photographic or electronic process without written permission from the publisher. Horsen Around is distributed monthly, pick up a free copy at local tack shops, western wear stores, equestrian centers, farriers, veterinarian clinics. You an also subscribe to Horsen’ Around by contacting us at www.equinemonthly.com or (715)-695-3976 www.equinemonthly.com ® ® . Rate My Ride column is going to be starting in A new Horse ‘N Around magazine! In this col- umn, two instructors from an equine science college program are going to critique pictures of riders and horses. They will point out how the rider or horse look while in motion and comment on rider’s position, biomechanics of the horse, turn out, and give some training tips! This first article will introduce you to the instructors (Julie and Jonathon), the program that they teach, and explain how to submit your pictures for analysis! About the Rochester Community & Technical College (RCTC) Equine Science Program: Rochester Community and Technical College in SE Minnesota has had an equine science program for over 10 years and the program continues to grow and improve each year. The program has 1 and 2 year degree options in equine science. Students can major in either Riding & Training or Horse Husbandry, depending on their career goals. There are also options to customize a degree for students with specific needs. For example, students wanting to pursue a degree in veterinary technology at RCTC can also get a 12 credit equine science certificate to help them obtain a vet tech career involving horses. Our classes have a tremendous amount of hands-on learning, riding opportunities, field trips, and small class sizes. Riding classes include dressage, hunt seat equitation, western horsemanship, and colt starting. Other courses include equine anatomy, horse 4 March 2016 With Julie Christie and Jonathon Holland nutrition, stable management skills, teaching techniques, and equine business practices. The equestrian facility that the equine science program utilizes is brand new, very large, heated, and boasts a viewing area nicer than most houses! Our alumni are working in the horse industry in a variety of capacities. Many are horse trainers or riding instructors but there are also former students working as barn managers, for nutrition companies, running horse camps, veterinary technicians, and equine assisted therapy programs. onships, as well as earned berths at the zone and national championships. He is now an equine science professor at RCTC and teaches western horsemanship, colt starting, and several more classes. Jonathon also raises, trains, and shows APHC horses for western pleasure futurities. RCTC is an accredited program so most courses will transfer to a four year institution. About Julie: Julie Christie is an equine science professor and also runs her own teaching/training business in the Rochester area. Julie is an FEI dressage rider and has previously competed in the hunters, jumpers, eventing, combined training, and equitation. Julie has a Masters degree in Equine Welfare, a certificate in Adult learning, and has over 10 years of experience teaching equine science at the college level. Originally from Halifax, Nova Scotia, she has worked with horses in many provinces, states, and countries. About Jonathon: Jonathon grew up riding and showing horses. After a successful youth career, he pursued his education with an Associate degree in Equine Science and a BS in Animal Industries Management at UMC. Jonathon has taught equine science at UMC and RCTC and has coached IHSA teams to regional champiHorsen Around Magazine Picture instructions: Julie and Jonathon invite you to submit pictures of yourself riding for feedback on your position, horse, turn out, and to get some training tips. Ideally the picture is taken from the side while in movement and shows the whole horse and rider in profile. You can be doing any style of riding although speed events are not recommended. Please do not submit blurry pictures. It might be helpful if you indicate the style of riding you are doing, how long you have been doing it, and a short introduction of you and your horse. You can choose to remain anonymous or to have your name published. Just let us know your preference. We look forward to seeing the submissions! Our thoughts at Horse N’ Around for teaming up with the Rochester Community Technical College Equine Science Instructors Julie and Jonathan, would be both insightful and a fun way to help Equine Enthusiasts with professional training advice helping anyone who wishes to participate as well as our readers. This is an opportunity not only our readers to gain helpful insight for both horse and rider, but gives these two wonderful instructors a chance to share their years of professional insight while introducing their program to potential students. Please submit your photos and questions to : [email protected] ( If needed please ask for confidentiality) www.equinemonthly.com April 1-2 U Ewing, IL May 7 U Ewing, IL MAY 20-21 U Cassopolis, MI is a subject that reminds me of our WestT his ern Dressage motto "Why Not?!" A saying I have said since I learned of the vast interests in Western Dressage at the 2010 FEI World Equestrian Games. For the first 30 years of riding I rode consistently in the Dressage saddle. I still find myself training the exact same way if I am in a western saddle or the dressage saddle. Dressage principles are the basis of my show ring success. By using these principles with the training of the horses I find I ride the same when riding in a Hunt Seat or Western Saddle. PALM PARTNERSHIP TRAINING™ Building a Partnership with your Horse “You Can Do The Same in a Western Saddle as a Dressage Saddle!” by Lynn Palm I would guarantee you if you put a western saddle (correctly fitted of course) on a Gran Prix horse and started to do Piaffe, Tempi changes, Passage, Half Pass, etc., you would find that a horse can do just as well in a western saddle! It does not matter to a horse what saddle, unless it does not fit the horse or rider correctly. Actually, I find the Dressage and Western saddles are the most similar. You ride in a sitting position at the walk, trot, and canter in a dressage saddle and one that rides correctly sitting in the western saddle at the walk, jog, lope in a western saddle mirrors the same basic principle of dressage. You can post to the trot in the Western or English saddle too. Comparing Dressage and Western Riders: Get a book with Dressage riders and then with Western Riders. My latest book, A Riders Guide To Real Collection, will be perfect to use. Make sure your books are of good quality training and correct horsemanship. Now, compare photos of riders. You are going to find the English riders and the Western riders are in similar positions. You should be able to define a vertical straight line from their ear, shoulder, middle of the hip, back of the heel to the ground. This vertical alignment that we must maintain while riding the horse in his three gaits is so similar. For example, the western rider can ride with two hands just like the English rider. This is a similar balanced position. Remember, the horse does not care about the saddle as long as it fits properly. Communication through the natural aids: Whether you are riding in a Dressage or Western saddle, the universal aids to communicate with seat, legs, and hands are all the same. It should not matter what saddle you are in, as long as you are consistently using your aids correctly. If you had a big bulky and thick leathered western saddle, you may not be able to use your aids as "close contact" as a dressage saddle. My Western Dressage saddle is just as much close contact to my horse as my dressage saddle. I just love it! If you are interested to see my two custom made Western Dressage saddle that I use, click here! Also, take a peak at our English Dressage saddle; handmade in France that has a tree we developed specifically for the Stock Horse breeds or other horses with broad shoulders and broad backs. It is something special and surely gives you a correct balance when you ride in it. If you would like to see this, just click here. If you would like to try one of our saddles, please contact my husband, Cyril at [email protected]. He would be more than happy to answer any saddle or saddle fitting questions you may have. He is an expert in this field. The training of the horse and the levels you follow to improve the horse's knowledge and performance, as well as your own skills, does not matter what saddle you ride in! The saddle is just a tool to keep you in balance with your horse, feel the horse underneath of you, and to give your horse comfort as he carries your weight. A horse should have no problems unless the saddle does not fit. I find that most riders love the western saddle because it has a bigger seat, a horn for confidence, and more saddle that is around you. A western saddle does not challenge your balance as much as an English dressage saddle does. All English saddles require more balance from the rider and a skill level so they don't rely on the horn if they should need it for balance. However, we require all our western riders to ride English! I believe that riding English (Dressage or Hunt Seat) will improve your Western riding. Over the years this has proven very true. I would like to end this training article with a challenge for you. If you have a friend or student who rides only western, try to get them in an English saddle. They will find it will help their western riding by enhancing balance and confidence. If you know an English rider, try to get them to ride in the western saddle. They will have a blast, as it is so much more comfortable if the saddle is of top quality. Most riders retire riding in a western saddle! Don't ever forget that! 6 March 2016 Horsen Around Magazine www.equinemonthly.com Traveling with a Horse With winter making its grand entrance in many states and across Canada, having confidence your four-legged companion is comfortable during travel is essential. While horses are very comfortable in cold conditions, and most travel well in the winter, it is still a big question as to whether you should be throwing on a blanket or leaving it at the barn. There are a few factors that should be taken into consideration before you hit the road. Hydration is one of the most important factors to consider when traveling with your horse. While a lot of us take extra caution of dehydration in the summer, winter is just as important and your best defense against colic. If a horse has on a few too many blankets, dehydration can set in quickly and cause problems. If you have a show horse and keep him under lights to prevent a winter coat, then blanketing at all times while outside is best. If you have a horse that is a regular in the pasture and resembles a wooly mammoth during winter, a blanket may be a poor choice as he can sweat and quickly become dehydrated. With that being said, there are many climates that no matter what your horse’s coat looks like, a blanket is a must due to cold winds. This is especially true if you have an open stock trailer. www.equinemonthly.com Good trailer ventilation is a very important factor; any time of year. Since horses are prone to respiratory illness, toxic air can quickly fill your trailer if you have it completely sealed. Gases from urine and manure, hay dust and shavings, can all play a key role in threatening your horse’s health. Also keep in mind that body heat builds quicker while traveling and can create discomfort if there is no airflow. If you are going on a long-distance trip, pack accordingly. Pack different types of blankets and sheets so you can change them depending on the weather. If your horse lives in a hot weather climate like Arizona, keep in mind that he is not used to colder weather and may require a heavier blanket earlier in the trip than say a horse from Minnesota, Wisconsin, or Iowa. Some people go by the 35-40° rule. If it gets to or below those numbers, get those blankets on. Again, this is all depending on your horse’s coat. Horsen Around Magazine Blanket or No Blanket? If he is body clipped or has a light coat, he should wear his regular blanket in the trailer, with full ventilation. If horses are in an enclosed trailer, a light sheet may be all that is needed, plus it can also act as a form of protection. Be cautious of sweating as it can cause dehydration. None of us have time for that when we have places to go and horses to meet! USRider is the only company to provide emergency roadside assistance for horse owners. Through the Equestrian Motor Plan, USRider provides nationwide roadside assistance and towing services with other travel-related benefits to its Members. The plan includes standard features such as flat-tire repair, battery assistance, lockout services, and roadside repairs for tow vehicles and trailers with horses, plus towing up to 100 miles and emergency stabling, veterinary and farrier referrals. For more information about USRider visit www.usrider.org or call (800) 844-1409. March 2016 7 Air Ride Technologies Installing the LevelTOW kit on a 2015 Chevrolet 3500 HD Dually. We all want to get the most out of the equipment we buy. If money were no object, we would buy the biggest truck and trailer offered on the market. But, that just simply isn’t the case for most of us. Many of us use our towing vehicles on daily bases for things other than towing. So, somewhere in the middle of a massive tow rig and an economical grocery getter is where our vehicles end up. In this scenario, our suspension is also a compromise. If all trucks were designed to haul the max GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating) the suspension would be very stiff. That would be OK if the truck was always loaded. But unloaded it would be very uncomfortable to ride in. If they were designed to have a very plush ride, when you loaded the trailer and cargo up, the truck would sag and be very scary to drive. Then you add into the equation that hauling horses is very different than hauling a boat or RV. Horses move around and can shift weight on your towing vehicle. So, how do we get a good ride unloaded and maintain ride quality with our horse trailers and shifting loads. While automatic, it may also be controlled by the manual up/down switch also supplied in the kit. It is very critical to get the insert completely “clocked” into the cup. This requires a screwdriver or pry bar to get it twisted all the way. The three pictures below show Jounce bumper, the incorrect and correct ways of installing the insert. Although removing the wheels to install LevelTOW kit 81214004 isn’t necessary, we have, to make viewing the installation easier. The first step is to remove the jounce bumpers and insert the jounce bumper cup insert into the cup. This picture shows the cup incorrectly “clocked” into the jounce cup. Ridetech has developed an advanced towing solution that automatically levels your vehicle for varying loads. Unlike other load leveling kits, the LevelTOW system is designed to not only level the truck under load but also improve ride quality. Oh, and did we mention, it does this all automatically once activated? This shows the correct location of the insert in the cup. Once the cup inserts are correctly installed the upper bracket can be installed. The system is a complete package that includes variable rate air springs, quiet OE grade air compressor, automatic leveling sensor and industry leading Monotube shocks. 8 March 2016 Horsen Around Magazine www.equinemonthly.com Assemble the airspring to the lower bracket and bolt it to the axle with the bail clamp (ubolt), carriage bolts and secure it to the upper bracket with the large combo stud. Make sure the alignment pin is in the appropriate hole in the upper bracket. The last step is to install the supplied shocks. We installed the front shocks also to optimize the ride quality of our Chevy 3500. Run the wires to the height sensor location, power and activation wires, and controls inside the cab per the instructions. Next we move to the automatic air management system. Mount the compressor frame bracket to the frame using the supplied self-tapping screws. Install the sensor with the supplied self-tapping screws. We can now cut the rod for the height sensor to connect the sensor arm to the axle or leaf stack. There are a few brackets in the kit. We used the axle bracket and modified it to attach to the leaf stack. Now that the LevelTOW kit is installed on our 2015 Chevrolet 3500HD. We are ready for towing our precious cargo, safely and comfortably! Mount the compressor system to the frame bracket. Run the air line to the air springs. www.equinemonthly.com We installed our controls in a panel in the dash. You can also use the supplied bracket to mount them under the dash. Horsen Around Magazine Ridetech’s LevelTOW kits are available for all late model tow vehicles and available at most truck and trailer accessory stores or directly at www.ridetech.com. These kits do not require a certified mechanic to install and can be completed with simple hand tools. March 2016 9 Alfalfa and the Insulin Resistant Horse — The True Story By Dr. Juliet M. Getty Alfalfa can be an excellent addition to most horses’ diets, even for those who are insulin resistant (IR). I often recommend feeding it because it boosts the overall protein quality of a grass-hay diet and, in general, enhances the horse’s muscle tone, immune system, and overall health. But some people just don’t want to feed alfalfa; they believe it causes laminitis. And after years of working with horses, it appears that it may, in fact, lead to laminitis in some horses. I found this to be very puzzling since alfalfa is low in sugar and starch, even lower than most grass hays. Its high protein content, however, makes it more caloric, which can be a problem for IR horses who need to lose weight. But I always included some, albeit a small amount. Nevertheless, there appears to be something about alfalfa that troubles some IR horses. After giving this considerable thought, I believe I can shed some light on why this may be the case. There are two plausible reasons, both leading to excess blood glucose and the concomitant secretion of insulin: For a protein to be of high quality, it must contain all of the essential amino acids in proper proportion. Plant protein sources are potentially limiting in the essential amino acid, lysine. When lysine is low, protein synthesis comes to a halt. The National Research Council (NRC) has established lysine requirements for all horses. As of yet, requirements for the other nine essential amino acids have not been quantified, though recent research has shown that threonine may be the second limiting amino acid. To ensure your horse has an ample amino acid pool in his bloodstream from which to synthesis proteins within his body, it is best to feed a variety of protein sources to improve the quality while not overdoing the quantity. The organic acid has several pathways it can take: (1) It can be burned for energy (especially if the diet is not high enough in calories to meet energy needs); (2) It can be converted to body fat(if the diet is too high in calories); or (3) It can be converted to glucose. It’s this third path that potentially causes problems for the IR horse. Once glucose is produced, the pancreas secretes insulin to allow glucose to enter the Feedstuff: Approximate volume measure equivalent to 100 g Protein(grams) cells and store body fat. Elevated insulin can create inAlfalfa pellets (18% CP) 1 cup (240 ml) 21.0 flammation with the feet and the IR horse is particularly Almonds (ground) 1 cup(240 ml) 21.2 vulnerable because his inBeet Pulp 1 cup (240 ml) 10.0 sulin level is already eleBrewer’s Yeast 1/3 cup + 1T (100 ml) 53.0 vated. Chia seeds ½ cup (120 ml) 15.6 Table 1: Protein Content of Protein-Rich Feedstuffs[i] per 100 grams Flaxseeds (ground) 1. Excess protein in the diet Hempseeds 2. Preservative often sprayed Rice bran Soybean meal[ii] on alfalfa hay Split peas Sunflower seeds[iii] Whey protein isolate Excess protein - quality vs quantity All proteins consist of long, branched chains of amino acids. Upon digestion, amino acids are free to enter the blood stream and travel to individual tissues, where they are recombined in a very specific order to produce the protein needed by that particular tissue (e.g., blood, lungs, heart, liver, skin, bones, joints, etc.). There are 22 amino acids, of which ten are considered essential -- they cannot be produced within the horse’s body or they cannot be produced in adequate quantity to meet the horse’s need. 10 Here is how it happens: Inside the liver, an amino acid is broken apart into two pieces – an amino group and an organic acid. The amino group quickly becomes ammonia and is converted to urea, which is then excreted from the body in the urine. March 2016 1 cup less 1T (225 ml) 10 Tablespoons (150 ml) 1 cup (240 ml) 1 cup + 3 T (285 ml) ½ cup (120 ml) ½ cup (120 ml) 13.3 Tablespoons (200 ml) Commercially fortified feeds often include a variety of ingredients to create quality protein. If you’d like to do it yourself, (table 1) offers suggestions on alternative whole foods that can be incorporated into a grass-based diet. Protein quantity becomes a problem when the horse is overwhelmed with amino acids. If large amounts of protein are consumed beyond the horse’s need to replace and repair body proteins, the excess amino acids cannot be stored for later use. Instead, they are destroyed. The metabolites of amino acid degradation can potentially lead to excess glucose in the blood. Horsen Around Magazine 18.3 37.0 15.5 34.8 24.6 22.8 70.0 Alfalfa hay can contribute to excess protein It is easy to overwhelm the horse with too much protein when feeding alfalfa hay because on average, alfalfa has more than twice the amount of protein as grasses. Individual grass and alfalfa hays will vary significantly; therefore it is always best to have your hay analyzed. It is important to realize that excess protein from any source can lead to excess insulin secretion. Alfalfa hay is generally fed in much larger quantity than adding a whole food such as alfalfa pellets, split peas, or hempseeds (see table 1), making it appear as though it is the alfalfa that is the culprit. Let’s look at a hypothetical example: (Continued on Pg 12) www.equinemonthly.com 3/$112:72$77(1'&216,*1$1'%8<$77+( 635,1*&$7$/2* $8&7,216 3DLQW4XDUWHU+RUVH6DOH 0DUFK a10:00 a.m. $SSDORRVD3DLQW4XDUWHU +RUVH6DOH 0D\ a10:00 a.m. 1DWLRQDOO\$GYHUWLVHG 7RS6DOHV3HUVRQQHO 3DLG'D\RI6DOH For consignment blanks and catalogs, write: 7:,1&,7,(6+256(6$/(6 2[IRUG0LOO5RDG &DQQRQ)DOOV01 -LP6LPRQDQG5\RQ6LPRQ2ZQHU0DQDJHUV 2IILFH )$; Website: www.simonhorsecompany.com 6DOH/RFDWHG7ZR0LOHV1RUWKRI&DQQRQ)DOOV0LQQHVRWDRQ+LJKZD\ Alfalfa and the Insulin Resistant Horse Pepper is an adult Quarter Horse. He is overweight – 1200 lbs (550 kg). He’s been diagnosed with insulin resistance and has already suffered once from laminitis. He is lightly active. According to the NRC, his minimum protein requirement is 770 grams per day. Since the overweight, IR horse has much inflammation in his system (both body fat and insulin are highly inflammatory), tissues throughout the body can be damaged. Protein is needed to help repair and maintain tissues. Consequently, it is reasonable to add to the NRC requirement. Ten percent is a sensible amount to add, bringing the protein requirement up to 847 grams per day. Pepper’s cool-season grass hay has been analyzed to be low in sugar (ESC) and starch and is therefore, appropriate to feed free choice. The crude protein content is 8%. After being allowed to self-regulate through free-choice feeding, his grass hay consumption averages 22 lbs per day. To boost his protein quality, Pepper’s owner adds 5 lbs of alfalfa hay per day, which has been analyzed to contain 20% crude protein. Minnesota Trail Riders Association ( Continued From Pg10 ) Protein intake is calculated as follows: Grass hay: 22lbs X 454 g/lb X .08 = 799 grams Alfalfa hay: 5 lbs X 454 g/lb X .20 = 454 grams Total: 799 + 454 = 1253 grams. 1253 grams significantly exceeds his protein requirement. Pepper’s owner decides to remove the alfalfa hay. To offer a variety of protein sources, she replaces the hay with 2 cups alfalfa pellets and 1 cup of split peas: Now the protein intake looks like this: Grass hay: 799 grams Alfalfa pellets: 2 X 21 grams = 42 grams Split Peas: 2 X 24.6 grams = 49.2 grams Total: 890.2 grams Interpretation: The protein content of the first diet is too high because of added alfalfa, which could contribute to elevated insulin secretion. However, alfalfa, in and of itself, is not necessarily the issue. The issue is too much protein. By removing the alfalfa hay and replacing it with a small amount of alfalfa pellets and split peas, the protein quality is improved while keeping the overall content close to the requirement. Here’s another real issue with alfalfa – Propionic acid MTRA is composed of horse enthusiasts dedicated to the development and maintenance of horse trails and campgrounds. $30 Membership includes Newsletter Subscription Mail to: MTRA P.O. Box 984 Burnsville MN 55337-0984 and visit us at www.mntrailriders.com Help Support Minnesota Trails 12 March 2016 Alfalfa is often sprayed with buffered propionate (also known as propionic acid) to retard spoilage if baled during wet or humid conditions. This preservative not only reduces mold, but it also decreases drying time in the field, thereby diminishing the potential for leaf loss from harvesting and providing more baling flexibility. Baling can begin in the humid early morning hours and can continue later into the evening, allowing greater acreage to be harvested. Not considered to be harmful, propionate is one of three volatile fatty acids (VFA) naturally produced by the hindgut bacteria during hay fermentation. The other two VFAs are acetate and butyrate. These VFAs are a significant energy source for your horse. Acetate is utilized by many tissues including the heart, muscles, and the brain. Butyrate provides energy for the cells that line the hindgut epithelium. Horsen Around Magazine Propionate is a major precursor toward glucose production through a process known as gluconeogenesis. And that’s a problem for the IR horse. Once propionate is absorbed and metabolized, it is converted to glucose! So when you feed alfalfa that has been treated with propionic acid, you are essentially increasing your horse’s blood glucose level, just as you would if you had fed a hay with a large amount of sugar and starch. Increased glucose leads to increased insulin. And the rest is… well, you get the picture. Talk to your alfalfa hay producer. If the hay has been sprayed with propionate, and excess glucose is a concern for your horse, do not feed this hay. In areas of the country where humidity is not an issue, alfalfa is not likely sprayed with propionate. But it is always worth checking. Bottom line Too much protein can be problematic for the IR horse and it is easy to exceed the horse’s protein requirement when adding alfalfa hay. Alfalfa itself is not the issue, but rather, its contribution to the protein content of the entire diet. Since protein quality is important, consider adding smaller amounts of alfalfa hay or add different protein sources to better stay within limits. Avoid alfalfa that has been treated with propionic acid. ■ Juliet M. Getty, Ph.D. is an independent equine nutritionist with a wide U.S. and international following. Her research-based approach optimizes equine health by aligning physiology and instincts with correct feeding and nutrition practices. www.equinemonthly.com Itching Post As I watched the beautiful horses in the pasture one morning, my eyes were drawn to a giant draft horse named Dakota. He may have looked like he was smiling, but those of us who understand horse behavior know that curling of the lips can be a sign of colic. I grabbed my binoculars for a better look. He really was smiling, rubbing his big hindquarters on my gate! I could see the gate start to buckle with his great weight, and the gate now has a permanent bend with Dakota’s name on it. Later that day as I was doing my chores around the farm, I couldn’t help but notice other places that horses had rubbed or scratched while they attempted to reach their itchy spots-- the corner of a building, a tree branch, a fence post, a gate or two or three! I wondered if there was anything available in the marketplace that I could buy to cover these places so the horses wouldn’t damage my property or themselves. I’m sure every horse owner has received a vet bill due to horses who have injured themselves from overzealous itching and required sutures, medication, or treatment for a scratched cornea. When I couldn't find anything at the store to solve this problem, I bought several rubber curry brushes and attached them to the side of a building. I was amazed at how often my horses found this area and scratched themselves all over their body. Some horses would take their faces and gleefully rub all over the brushes, and others would move their necks up and down over the brushes. The funniest ones would back into the brushes and rub their hind ends while making funny faces. They were clearly happy with their newfound, homemade “itching posts.” My brother Mike is a talented carpenter so I asked him to build me something similar made out of wood. This became the first design for Itchin’ Post Animal Grooming/Scratching Pads, but I still give all the credit to big old Dakota for the idea. I started Sundown Horse Farm and Shelter to feed, re-home, and train as many horses as possible and have found new homes or new jobs for hundreds of horses. To further contribute to the welfare of these beloved creatures, each sale of Itchin’ Post pads helps a horse in need. If you have ever watched a horse lay down and roll (especially right after you groom them!), you understand how itchy they can feel. When horses shed or grow new hair, the follicles itch and make them uncomfortable. Think about how a good back scratching feels and you can relate to our hoofed friends! Scratching is soothing, and rubbing relieves boredom, so by installing this combination toy/injurypreventing tool, you can easily provide a more enjoyable experience for your horse while adding color to the pasture and protecting your property. With each purchase, you also help horses in need. Visit www.SundownHorseShelter.org At Marth, we provide heavier bags, consistent size and virgin wood sources from qualified mills. da Versace Bey Standing At: Dierich Arabians Baldwin, WI www.versacebey.com Make sure you know what you’re paying for. DEALER INQUIRIES WELCOME! Call today for more information! While value is a priority, price doesn’t always get you there. [email protected] • 800-869-2377 www.marthwood.com www.equinemonthly.com Horsen Around Magazine Be sure you’re informed and can answer the following: 1. Type of wood in the bag 2. True expanded volume 3. Weight of the bag 4. Size of the bag March 2016 13 'Oscar' The horse who saved my life We received a request to share this amazing story of how a horse helped change a life, and we hope you enjoy it as much as we did. Thank you, Charlie for sharing your story with us. It's always wonderful to hear how our horse friends can change lives for the better. To read all about Charlie's journey with Autism and horses, be sure to order a copy of his book "Following the Hoofprints" available at Amazon.com" Although I live a normal life in the United Kingdom, I have a special gift called Autism. This is my true story of how a horse named Oscar gave me life, helped me to become an apprentice Horse Whisperer then helped me to turn my Autism into a gift. Before I discovered horses, I was rapidly losing the will to live or get out of bed let alone learn anything at all, I was hysterical, upset and depressed by the bullying and the hate I had to endure in my life particularly that aimed at me for having the (so called) disability of Autism. It felt as if my ‘Autistic Spectrum Disorder’ as my carers called it, was blinding those around me to my interests and strengths and this felt awful as I began to feel like a mutant. I first met Oscar when I was in my second year at Ruskin Mill College. I was struggling to make sense of my life, to find meaning or purpose in myself. I was so upset that I Felt my existence was pointless and wanted to die because I hated myself for having Autism. One day I was in Patricia my art tutor’s house, crying and hysterically upset in a full-scale autistic meltdown, when she took me out to meet Oscar. From the moment I met Oscar, a bay thoroughbred who, I had been told, had a very difficult start in life and had nearly died, I felt my own 14 March 2016 self pity become lost in a sea of love. He seemed to be saying ‘I love you, Charlie’ and asking me for friendship and help in spreading the message that violence towards any animal or human being is never the answer. In return he said he would help me to learn about his language and that he would never let me fall back into myself. He said, “I’m always here in spirit if not in body”. I feel very tearful just writing about this. Oscar said to me, “If you want to repay me, you can become a Horse Whisperer”, and although I don’t believe I can ever fully repay him I have since totally set my heart on becoming a Horse Whisperer! Patricia could not believe what she was seeing and decided to ask for me to have a few sessions of horse therapy with her and Oscar over the next few weeks. However in true Ruskin Mill style, ‘They’ did not give me horse therapy, ‘They’ gave me a Horse Whisperer! Carol arranged for me to meet a lady called Dawn Oakley-Smith, who keeps a small herd of horses at her Natural Horsemanship stable yard called ‘Heartshore Horses’. Hector (the friendly big black Labrador) who Dawn keeps as her friend and companion. Dawn took us to Heartshore Horses’ main field where her herd of horses were waiting to be fed with their morning hay. As soon as I saw them I knew that Heartshore was an amazing place where I would learn a very great deal about horses. I feel rather silly now, but I asked Dawn if she had heard of my hero Monty Roberts. She replied, “Of course, I am a Horse Whisperer!” I was totally amazed to hear this. It was the most incredible feeling, to realize exactly what was happening here! This was my destiny; to help Dawn as a Horse Whisperer apprentice. To help to save horses from certain death and to help horses and people understand one another! As soon as I arrived at Dawn’s house with Carol, I was loudly welcomed by Horsen Around Magazine www.equinemonthly.com Over the next year as I became more confident, competent, and able, it became apparent that more than anything I wanted to have a horse of my own. As this seemed to me to be impossible I waited as long as I could before I finally asked Dawn how expensive they really were to keep. She replied, ‘”We can keep them here very cheaply at Heartshore because we keep all of the horses as naturally as possible”... It was about this time that I met Monty Roberts the iconic Horse Whisperer, on telling him my plan Monty told me to make my own luck wished me good learning and told me to go for it! Over the next year as I became more confident, competent, and able, it became apparent that more than anything I wanted to have a horse of my own. As this seemed to me to be impossible I waited as long as I could before I finally asked Dawn how expensive they really were to keep. She replied, ‘”We can keep them here very cheaply at Heartshore because we keep all of the horses as naturally as possible”... After many weeks of discussions, meetings and anxious waiting for both me and my Ruskin Mill house parents, the news that I was to have a horse of my very own made me cry! And I had already decided on the name, ‘Spirit’! I first met ‘Spirit’ on a lovely warm sunny day in May. It all happened after a phone call from a horse breeder who had seen my advertisement, knew that I was looking for a young horse, and had just the one! We arranged to visit the stables and I was introduced to a young and very handsome colt. Although I instantly liked his spirited nature, Dawn and I said no to buying him. She was the voice of Reason and I was the voice of excitement. So we went on to the next paddock where I met a young Irish sport horse cross thoroughbred whose father was the famous coloured sport horse stallion ‘Masterpiece’. I immediately fell in love! Her name was ‘Summer’s Rain’. The breeder was happy to agree on a fair price and I was happy to buy her having changed her name to 'Spirit Of Summers Rain' and ‘Spirit of Summer’s Rain’ arrived at Heartshore Horses on June 20th 2010. Isaacson, author of the book ‘The Horse Boy’. She now runs therapy camps for autistic children and their families at Heartshore Horses in Gloucestershire although we prefer a natural horsemanship approach to all of our equine therapy but especially with those who have autism because we found that the natural horsemanship seems to produce better therapy horses who are more relaxed and happy and are less focused on their own survival and more focused on their job. I work as a volunteer assistant on these camps and do my best to look after those who need special help. I enjoy telling the visiting families about my life changing experience with Oscar and introducing ‘Spirit’ to all those who wish to meet to her. Spirit and I are now out to try to inspire others to try Natural Horsemanship through giving talks on how horses saved me and displaying our wonderful friendship via natural horsemanship demos. We also want to inspire others with disabilities or difficulties to just carry on regardless and focus on their Strengths and Interests. We had a phone call not long before Monty Roberts was due to do a demo near Gloucester at Hartbury College for his Jubilee tour to say that he had heard all about my story and wanted me to come and be part of his demonstration to speak about my Autism and do a Join Up in front of everyone with Kelly Marks 18hh hunting horse Harry! As you can imagine I was honoured but nervous as I walked into the round pen to speak but this feeling soon subsided and then when I was with Harry doing Join Up, nothing existed anymore except him and me so that I felt the same lovely calm relaxed feeling I get when I am with my own horse Spirit. Recently I heard that Oscar ‘Cleverly Bay’ had been put to sleep after breaking his leg Eventing and this was devastating news but I hope to make him proud of me and help many other people not to have to go through what I went through. I have now written a book called Following The Hoofprints, which has now been published and is available worldwide exclusively through Amazon. Spirit and I have a wonderful relationship, she is an extremely easy and kind horse despite still being young. We play and learn as partners and I have been training her almost totally unaided. I never use pain or force when training her, we use the ‘Natural Horsemanship’ methods of ‘Monty Roberts’. Dawn for a time became part of the ‘Horse Boy Foundation’ and has worked alongside Rupert www.equinemonthly.com Horsen Around Magazine March 2016 15 Wrongful Death Ruling Empowers Farriers court documents. “As a result of that fall, he suffered serious head trauma. He later died from the injuries he sustained.” As our schedules arise for that needed trim every four to six weeks for our horses, we thought it would be good to re-introduce an article written by Jeff Cota from the American Farriers Journal regarding responsibility and control over your horse while trimming their hoo0ves. A Wrongful Death Ruling Empowers Farriers, On a fall Southern California day in 2009, Pat Barrett set out to do what he had done thousands of times over more than 45 years — trim horses’ hooves. Armed with a halter, Barrett and his assistant entered an exceptionally rocky corral to secure a horse. It was something that Barrett had done since he started working on James Leech’s horses. This day, though, would have a tragic outcome. “In attempting to secure one of the horses for hoof trimming, Patrick was hit by the horse’s chest or possibly the horse’s face, which caused him to fall and hit his head on one of the rocks that covered the corral,” according to There was a great deal of interest in the industry when it was learned that a California Court of Appeals dismissed a wrongful death lawsuit that was brought by Barrett’s widow Nancy, and for good reason. Mrs. Barrett asks some very important questions, not only on behalf of herself and her late husband, but for each and every one of you who gets under a horse. • Whose responsibility is it to secure and restrain horses? • Whose responsibility is it to determine whether the conditions are safe to work on a horse? • Whose responsibility is it to determine whether the horse is too volatile in disposition and temperament? In its 15-page decision, the court details its position through case law that the responsibility rests entirely with you. It’s not a popular ruling. After all, a man lost his life. A wife lost her husband. Six children lost their father. Grandchildren lost their grandfather. It’s incredibly difficult to separate the emotional elements from this horrible accident. Yet, it’s important to consider the very specific language when reading the main points contained within the ruling. Perhaps the issue that sparked the most discussion within the farrier industry involved the court’s opinion on securing horses. From a small horse barn to a professional riding facility, you can count on Northland’s experts to design and build a safe and functional building for your horses! By Jeff Cota While Mrs. Barrett argued that the horse owner was liable for failing to secure or restrain horses for the farrier, the court disagreed. “Securing the horses was an essential part of the job for which the farrier Patrick was hired,” according to the court documents. “The owner had no duty to secure the horses once he gave up care and control to the specialist.” The key to the opinion is contained within the second sentence: “… once he gave up care and control to the specialist.” The court is being very specific. It’s not saying that it’s the farrier’s job to fetch horses. It’s not saying the farrier should accept unsafe working conditions. Yet, what it is saying is that once the farrier accepts care and control of the horse, the owner is off the hook. You are now responsible. Although some farriers are criticizing the ruling as a blow against the industry, it actually empowers you. The court is telling you it’s OK to say no. You have the right to walk away rather than put yourself in unnecessary danger. There are going to be clients who don’t understand your decision. Some will be angry. Others will fire you. The courts are very clear, the client will not be compelled to pay for your hospital bills, cover your lost wages, pay your funeral costs or take care of your family if you lose your life. It’s OK to say no. Jeff Cota has been a writer, photographer and editor with newspapers and magazines for nearly 25 years. A native of Maine, he is the Associate Editor of American Farriers Journal. SAFE HORSE FENCE K FENCE, INC Electrobraid • White Lightning • Poly Plus • Cantaur Rail Horse-Tuff High Tensile • Free Estimates • DIY Help • Expert Installation www.kfence.com 62411 386th Ave, Zumbro Falls, MN 55991 507-753-2943 FAX 507-753-2706 16 March 2016 Horsen Around Magazine www.equinemonthly.com If You Would Like To Advertise Your business or Have An Interesting Article You Would Like us To Share in Horsen’ Around Magazine REAL HORSES • REAL PROBLEMS • REAL HELP Please contact our office (715)-695- 3976 or send us an E-mail at [email protected] LOVELAND, CO • RANCH-WAY FEEDS ARENA • MAY 21-22 KALISPELL, MT • MAJESTIC VALLEY ARENA • SEP 10-11 2016 OVER $6,000 IN PRIZES GIVEN AWAY AT EACH TOUR STOP INCLUDING SADDLES, RITCHIE WATERERS, TACK, TRAINING KITS,NWC MEMBERSHIPS, AND MUCH MORE!! 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JOIN WWW.NOWORRIESCLUB.COM TO GET COMPLIMENTARY TICKETS BROUGHT TO YOU BY PRESENTS WALKABOUTEVENTS.COM • 888.287.7432 www.equinemonthly.com Horsen Around Magazine March 2016 Scan here for Free Tickets 17 Charles Wilhelm’s Ultimate Super Horse Challenge TM Come watch an amazing group of horses and riders compete for the title of “Charles Wilhelm’s Ultimate Super Horse, During the Western States Horse Expo, in Pomona, California February 4 - 6, 2016, – In Hand Performance & Ranch Riding, took place with Trail Equitation & Dancing with Cows. with the Super Horse Finale on Saturday, February 6, 2016. golf carts, babies crying, horses all around them, bursts of applause, loud speakers, and all kinds of environments and noises that can’t be duplicated at home. The overall winner of the multi-day Ultimate Super Horse Challenge will received a custom Charles Wilhelm signature saddle (or $1000 cash) and a championship buckle. The second place finisher received $500 cash and the top five contestants received a ribbon and great prizes from the event sponsors. A Super Horse can appear in a parade one day, work cows the next, compete in trail equitation, western dressage or working equitation the following day — and more. The Super Horse can do all that with lightness, cadence, carriage, fluidity and responsiveness. The Super Horse Challenge is designed to challenge the horse and rider to excel in their abilities and to demonstrate communication, It’s great exposure and training for the horse. The judges for the Challenge in Pomona will include great horsemen and women such as Richard Winters, Brandi Lyons, Robin Bond, Mary Kitzmiller and Steve Bauhr. Altogether, the prize packages total over $5,000. If you have a Super Horse, join us at the next Super Horse Challenge at the Northwest Horse Fair & Expo – March 18-20, 2016 horsemanship and equitation. This event rewards people for the time and hard work they have invested in their horses. The competition is not a race; rather the challenge is designed to showcase the rider’s relationship and the horse’s relaxed lightness, responsiveness, balance or collection throughout the course. One of the great bonuses of having the Ultimate Super Horse Challenge at an Expo is that these horses will be exposed to huge crowds, 18 March 2016 Horsen Around Magazine www.equinemonthly.com !"#$%" $""%"# $""%"##""%"#&"" %# +),## '""(! ) -. %"(/#%0$"(&#"#",( "#* $ "#2##4 # # ##-, $#)#5"#!* "#2##627 #6 ,&#" #" )"* 12 3#(" /8"#1"###1" 898 :#&;8 :&<#1"898 :#&78::& #"/&""8 -#(7#<=66>6 ?6@<=4">?A@#+!>?6@ $ &""-&=7=6"(#"(%"#"/&"" $#)#5"#-&#%&""-&=6$!"#=69#"/&""B "%0#%!"-8***B&!/B(944?9479#0"("##"B Minnesota Horse Expo gets ready The Minnesota State Fairgrounds opens to the 34th annual Minnesota Horse Expo for everyone who enjoys horses on Friday, April 22 through Sunday, April 24. Dale Myler, a leader in bit design and bitting application, Some 750 vendor booth spaces packed with gear, horse association info, trailers, riding, showing and work apparel, equine supplies and more for horse and owner will fill six Fair buildings and flow outside to space along Judson Avenue. The MN 4-H Horse Project volunteers will help consign and sell thousands of items of tack, equipment and clothing at the Expo Consignment Sale in the Dairy Building. This year’s presenters include Guy McLean, Australian horseman and entertainer, Julie Goodnight, educator and host of Horse Master on RFD-TV, Anita Howe, gaited horse trainer and author of Freedom to Gait, for April 22-24 Dates PRCA rodeo performances have long been a favorite at the Minnesota Horse Expo with sell out crowds. The three rodeo performances feature Barnes Rodeo stock, seven rodeo events plus Rider Kiesner, who entertains with the Cowboy skills of trick roping, gun spinning and whip cracking. Tickets for the 7pm Friday and Saturday and 3pm Sunday afternoon rodeos are in addition to Expo daily admission and can be purchased starting March 1 on the Minnesota Horse Expo website. Yvonne Barteau, dressage trainer, competitor, author of Ride the Right Horse and The Dressage Horse Manifesto, The Minnesota Horse Council owns the Minnesota Horse Expo and uses profits from the event to further their committee work for the state’s horse industry. Daily Minnesota Horse Expo Admission tickets are $11 for ages 13-61; $7 for ages 6-12 and 62 plus. Children 5 and under are Free. Parking is free at Minnesota Horse Expo in State Fair lots. Tickets for the Cavallo Equestrian Arts big top performances and PRCA Rodeos are in addition to daily Expo admission. For updated Horse Expo information and a link to the Minnesota Horse Council site, visit www.mnhorseexpo.org or call 877-4628758. and Robert Eversole, owner and operator of the largest horse trail and horse camp guide in North America. Horses from upwards of fifty breeds are expected to be on display in the Horse Barn and featured daily in the noon time narrated Parade of Breeds in the Coliseum. Friday and Saturday afternoons provide longer demonstrations of each breed; with a review of Stallions at Expo in the AgStar Arena each day. Cavallo Equestrian Arts returns with an exciting brand new production and new seating in the grand circus tent located near the Dairy Building at Expo. The 90 minute show is filled with feats of balance and beauty featuring horses from many breeds and performers who have a long family history of equine showmanship and acrobatic daring. Tickets are in addition to Expo tickets and can be purchased online ahead of time or at Expo. Performance times are Friday and Saturday at 1pm and 5pm and Sunday at 1pm. www.equinemonthly.com Horsen Around Magazine March 2016 21 ! p To Kill Me My Horsee Isl Trying H BY Missy Wryn “I am afraid my wife won’t come home one day from the barn. I just want her to get rid of that dangerous horse”, Wendy’s husband said to me as he pulled me aside. “I’ll do everything I can to help” I replied trying to reassure him. Wendy first contacted me explaining that her horse had become violent for no apparent reason. She explained that she’s been checked out by veterinarians and trainers, but no one can figure out what’s wrong. Wendy went on to explain that every time she visited Paige, her six year old Paint mare, Paige would charge, rear-up with striking hooves and gnashing teeth chasing Wendy out of the paddock and arena. Wendy was broken hearted over this unexplained change in her mare – she had rescued Paige at the tender age of 6 months old from an auction and they had been best friends and riding companions for the last 5+ years, enjoying trail rides and various styles of riding. But suddenly, without explanation Paige had become dangerous whenever Wendy tried to work with her. What happened? I have a lengthy intake form for every new horse that comes into my barn which consists of questions ranging from medications, feed and supplements, to recent vaccines and injuries old and new. As Wendy and I sat at my dining room table going through the intake form nothing out of the ordinary was coming up. There were no injuries, no recent vaccines or medical issues and no changes in feed or supplements. Paige’s overall physical health was good, so I asked her “were there any changes in Paige’s lifestyle before her behavior changed”? “Yes” Wendy said, “I moved her to a new barn which she was struggling fitting into the herd and then a herd mate died three weeks later”. I asked “did Paige seem to be sad or depressed”? “Yes she was” Wendy went on “and then I left for three months to take care of my 22 March 2016 mom in Hawaii who was dying of cancer. When I came back Paige had changed and I don’t understand why”. I put my pen down, leaned back in my chair and gently said “I’m so sorry you lost your mother, but you need to apologize to Paige. You abandoned her in her time of grief where she didn’t fit in except with one horse that was now gone. I need you to go out to the barn, put your left hand on her forehead and your right hand on her neck and tell her you are sorry that you abandoned her. Explain to her what happened and that you had no choice at the time, but that you now understand her anger and that you are going to make it right with her. In dealing with a charging horse I knew I best practice first short circuiting Paige’s brain by twirling a lead-rope in one hand and shaking a flag in the other. Horse’s see independently out of each eye feeding their brain information separately which has helped them survive in the wild for thousands of years. my eyes cast down, countenance soft as she buried her head in my chest with relief as if to say “finally I have a herd leader” If Paige charges me violently it is my intention to short circuit her brain by overloading her with two conflicting images, then gaining control of her feet all within seconds! I stood in my living room practicing twirling and shaking until I had it down – it was like patting your head and rubbing your tummy at the same time, but my life depended on me getting it right! The next morning I set out to do a Wholistic Joining with Paige, lead-rope in one hand and a training stick with a flag in the other – not my usual tools for a Wholistic Joining…… Use your words since the vibration from your words will tell Paige everything she needs to know. Once you do this I can undo the habitual behavior she has wrapped herself in”. Wendy and I walked out to the barn where I stopped at the door and left Wendy to her task. Wendy did just as I told her without question, we hugged goodbye as I said “I’ll call you soon”. Horsen Around Magazine www.equinemonthly.com I opened the stall door and Paige came out meandering about the arena checking out the various buckets and gates familiarizing herself with her new surroundings. I kept a watchful eye as she pranced about and shied at times from the scary wheelbarrow and horse eating tractor gate. I took a deep breath releasing it slowly as it was now time to start moving her feet launching into a Wholistic Joining. The very moment I approached her to move her feet she came charging at me rearing and striking with an open mouth, teeth bared. I stood my ground waving the flag and twirling the lead-rope hoping this worked – to my relief she stopped in her tracks and in a split second I growled loudly and ran towards her shaking the flag and twirling the rope. She turned and ran off as I chased her a few steps moving her feet, then turned and walked off keeping her in my peripheral vision. She turned and looked at me, then came charging again only to be stunned with two images she couldn’t process, the twirling lead-rope and shaking flag. Paige stopped abruptly at which I growled gruffly running towards her chasing her off again, then I turned and walked off. Paige stopped running, turned around and looked at me puzzled, then dropped her head in submission, licking her lips (a sign of thought) – in that moment I knew she understood I was her herd leader. I approached her gently, my eyes cast down, countenance soft as she buried her head in my chest with relief as if to say “finally I have a herd leader”. I stroked her neck and praised her – explained what had happened to her and how sorry Wendy was all the while comforting her in her grief. Paige blew a big sigh and signaled that she was done terrorizing and was ready to be a part of the herd again following me at liberty around the arena. Wendy and Paige were reunited without incident and came back to my barn two years later to participate in a clinic together. It was a deeply touching sight as Wendy and Paige rode with no reins through a labyrinth and bridge crossing now bonded as ONE. Specializing in problem and dangerous horses Missy Wryn is an internationally recognized Gentle Horse Trainer and member of the Association of Professional Humane Educators. For more information on Missy's Training the Whole Horse® methods & techniques and the creation of her widely popular All-In-One Bitless Bridle visit Missy Wryn’s website at MissyWryn.com or call toll free (888) 406-7689. Stable Relation A Story By Anna Blake I took a leap of faith and crash-landed on a dilapidated would-be horse farm on the flat, windy, treeless prairie of Colorado. It was a place where white horses turn pink at sunrise and the biggest social event of any week was greeting the trash man on Tuesday. It’s the story of my bittersweet transition from a mid-life orphan to a modern pioneer woman, building an entirely different kind of family farm--Jeanette Walls meets James Herriot. My Name is Anna Marie Blake and I write a successful blog, http://annablakeblog.com/, about training horses and life on the prairie, as well as articles for equine magazines. Stable Relation is my first book; a 78,000 word memoir and if you would like to ask for a copy they are available upon request at [email protected]. Thank you for your consideration, I look forward to hearing from you. Anna Blake at Ann a visit th #2304 oo our B at the ir e Fa Hors t s e I Midw ison, W h Mad 5th- 18t 1 k! April New Boo r e See h www.equinemonthly.com Horsen Around Magazine March 2016 23 A Great Year for 1.8 Million Equines In 2015 the Brooke reached a record 1.8 Million Equines, Benefitting 10 million People in the Developing World. For more than eight decades, the Brooke, the world's largest international equine welfare charity, has been the driving force in lessening the suffering of working equine animals all over the world. And it’s no easy task. There are more 100 million equines in the developing world, working to support more than 600 million of the poorest people on earth. very animals who provide a livelihood for them. Consequently literally millions of equines are laboring through chronic pain, malnourishment, dehydration, and crippling lameness – all of which are preventable when owners receive training from the Brooke. The Brooke’s programs alleviate the suffering of animals through free veterinary intervention and by training owners in better animal husbandry skills. Both animals and the people who depend on them benefit immediately and for generations to come. Brooke USA, the American division of the Brooke, enhances and expands this vital work through fundraising to support the Brooke’s overseas programs. In developing countries, motorized vehicles are not an option for the majority of the population, so it is not unusual for an entire extended family to depend on the work of a single horse or donkey for all their needs. But even beyond the needs of individual families, there are entire communities - even entire nations – that rely on the work of these crucial and patient animals to provide economic stability. The Brooke provides scientifically proven, practical, sustainable solutions to enormous equine welfare challenges in the developing world. They work in communities where many people together with their animals earn less than a dollar a day. In 2015 alone, thanks to Brooke staff and generous donors worldwide, the Brooke reached a record 1.8 million equines, benefitting 10 million people in across 11 countries in Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and Central America. With continued support from donors in the U.S., the Brooke will achieve its goal of reaching an additional 2 million equines benefitting 12 million people in 2016. Unfortunately, ignorance and desperation created by extreme poverty often lead equine owners to overwork, mistreat, and neglect the 24 March 2016 Horsen Around Magazine www.equinemonthly.com Reichert MIDWEST CREMATION SERVICE OF MN, INC. Saddlery & Farm Supply A FULL SERVICE WESTERN STORE LARGE INVENTORY • BEST PRICES When it’s time to say goodbye to your companion animal, MCS is here for your peace of mind. Servicing all of Minnesota. Pickup is included in our service. • Western • & Work Clothing • Boots Hats • Saddles & Tack [email protected] First Ave. PO Box 94, Leonard, MN. 56652 218-968-2248 • 800-957-2248 FEED STORES mcsofmn.com To Advertise Send us an E-mail at [email protected] For More Information Call 763-753-5510 Attention: Sales www.equinemonthly.com 26 March 2016 Horsen Around Magazine www.equinemonthly.com 2016 CALENDAR OF EVENTS Inclusion of your event in our calendar is free! Include the date and name of the event, where it will be held including city and state, a contact person, phone, email or website for more information. Email us (subject line: EVENT) [email protected] or call office 715-695-3976 by the 5th of the month preceding the issue date. March 4-6 5 5 5 11-12 12 12-13 18-19 18-19 18-20 18-20 19 19-20 April 1-2 1-3 1-3 7-10 9-10 15-17 22-24 23 29-30 29-1 Illinois Horse Fair-Springfield, IL-www.horsemenscouncil.org Tentative Wild Horse and Burro Adoption- Wild Horse and Burro Corrals- Ewing, IL - blm.gov Chippewa Valley Trailriders -Spring meeting 6 pm -Rod & Gun Club-Eau Claire, WI contact 715-829-1464 UW Stateline Equine Education Program-Kenosha Cnty Center-Bristol, WI-Liv Sandberg 608-263-4303 Tentative Wild Horse and Burro Adoption- Rock Springs Wild Horse Corrals-Rock Springs, WY-blm.gov HAHS -Tack and Craft Sale Hooved Animal Humane SocietyWoodstock, IL- 815-337-5563 email [email protected] WSCA Pleasure and Game Show Buckle Series- R&J Event Center-Verndale, MN 218-445-5849 AAPF Hoof care Essentials Clinic-Ken Davis & Sons-Rich wood, OH-contact Gina or Brian Davis 800-421-3109 Tentative Wild Horse and Burro Adoption- Hoosier Horse Park Baker Arena - Edinburgh, IN- blm.gov Barrel and Pole Bending Race-R&J Event CenterVerndale, MN 218-445-5849 Road to the Horse-Kentucky Horse Park - Lexington, KY www.RoadtotheHorse.com 877-772-5425. Equine Wellness Seminar and Tack Sale-Smiles IncDarien, WI 262-882-3470 Join Pat Roberts for the Wild at Heart Weekend International Learning Center CA res: 805-688-4382 May 6-7 6-8 7 13-14 14-15 20-21 20-22 20-22 21-22 22 Tentative Wild Horse and Burro Adoption-Jacksonville Equestrian Center-Extreme Mustang Makeover Trained and Untrained Animals Available-Jacksonville, FL-blm.gov Race for the Roses- R&J Event CenterVerndale, MN 218-445-5849 Tentative Wild Horse and Burro Adoption-Wild Horse and Burro Corrals-Ewing, IL-blm.gov Tentative Wild Horse and Burro Adoption-Wyoming Honor Farm - Trained Animals Available -Riverton, WY-blm.gov Outbuck Riders Summer Series Two Buckles UBRA sanctioned- Sheldon, WI Michele Kinney 715-559-1472 www.outbuckriders.com Tentative Wild Horse and Burro Adoption-Red Horse RanchCassopolis, MI-blm.gov MTRA Ride w/the DNR & Roundup Ride-Bob Dunn Horse Camp, Sand Dunes State Forest- Sherburne Cnty, MN 763-878-2325 www.mntra.org Dick B. 612-865-2178 Northern Minnesota Arabian Association- R&J Event CenterVerndale, MN 218-445-5849 Sherri Wright Clinic- Outbuck Riders Arena- Sheldon, WI Michele Kinney 715-559-1472 www.outbuckriders.com UBRA Barrel and Speed Show. Sherri Wright will be at the show following her clinic to assist in follow through from her clinic. Sheldon, WI Michele Kinney 715-559-1472 www.out buckriders.com Tentative Wild Horse and Burro Adoption Wild Horse and Burro Corrals - Ewing, IL - blm.gov Iowa Horse Fair-Des Moines, IA www.iowahorsecouncil.org R&J AQHA Shows -R&J Event Center-Verndale, MN 218-445-5849 Equine Affaire-Ohio Expo Center-Columbus, OH-www.equineaffaire.com R&J Arena WSCA Pleasure and Game Show Buckle SeriesR&J Event Center-Verndale, MN 218-445-5849 Midwest Horse Fair "The Sky's The Limit" Alliant Energy Center- Madison, WIwww.midwesthorsefair.com Minnesota Horse ExpoMN State Fairgrounds-St. Paul, MNFamily Business since 1907 www.mnhorseexpo.org HAHS Volunteer Orientation- Hooved Boots, Jeans, Hats, Apparel, Belts, lts, Western Boots & FlySelected Sheets on Clearance Animal Humane Society- Woodstock, Gifts, Horse Supplies ® ® Wrangler Jeans ON SALE! Levi’s Now Open IL- 815-337-5563 email [email protected] Winter SUNDAYS Tentative Wild Horse and Burro Blankets 12–5pm Adoption- Champion's CenterNovember 29 ON SALE Springfield, OH-blm.org thru Christmas MNHSRA Regional Rodeo- R&J Event Center-Verndale, MN 218-445-5849 Always Remember to confirm before you haul 413 West Lake St., Mpls., MN 612-825-2459 Park FREE in our lot located by the alley side of the store Shop our WIDE SELECTION of BOOTS Mon.–Fri. 9:30am–6pm • Thurs. till 8pm • Sat. till 5pm www.equinemonthly.com Horsen Around Magazine www.SSaddle.com March 2016 27 Y ourr Hor se. se O urr Pr omise. Ou s WORLLD CLASS FEEDS When it comess to giving your horsse e a performance edge, you can always trust Dynasty to deliverr. That’s our prromise o omise . • 5EKGPVKƂECNN[$CNCPEGF0WVTKVKQP • Inspired by Y Years ears of Research • Supports Ovverall Focus and Stren ngth • 'UUGPVKCN0WVTKGPVUHQT*GCNVJ9GNNPGUU.QPIGXKV[ • /WNVKRNG(QTOU(QTOWNCUHQTCNN.KHG5VCIGU #EVKXKV[.GXGNU 1.866.6 647.1212 | blueseal.com