Alberta Bits Spring edition 2019

Equestrian

Rookie Riders

WEDDINGS

INTRODUCED

Trailering

SAFETY

SPRING 2019

The Essence of Heartland

P U B L I C AT I O N S MA I L AG R E EME N T # 4 0 0 5 0 2 9 7

Exclusive interviews with Amber Marshall & Graham Wardle

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FEATURING Trail Riding

BREED PROFILE Percherons

SPECIAL FEATURE Mental Show Preparation

Booking Deadline - April 26, 2019 For advertising inquiries, contact: marketing@albertaequestrian.com

r Book iynogu now! adver t is ALBERTA BITS I SPRING 2019

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SPRING 2019; VOLUME 11, ISSUE 1

Alberta Bits is the Alberta Equestrian Federation’s official member magazine. It serves the equestrian community of horses and riders of all ages, interests and involvement as Alberta’s premier resource for education, information and support.

THE ALBERTA EQUESTRIAN FEDERATION HAS BEEN INCORPORATED SINCE 1978

Alberta Bits magazine is mailed four times a year (Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter) to all current AEF members and is made available at the office and special events attended by the AEF. Alberta Bits is distributed throughout Alberta with news and events on behalf of recreational, sport, breeds & industry and educational sectors of the Alberta horse industry. Alberta Bits is distributed to approximately 18,000 members; 9,000 households and businesses, an exclusive list of tack and equine establishments and at events and trade shows annually.

AEF BOARD OF DIRECTORS

PRESIDENT PRESIDENT ELECT

SECRETARY INTERIM TREASURER

INDIVIDUAL

INDIVIDUAL

INDIVIDUAL

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Lauren Parker 403.813.1055 lmparker@shaw.ca Sandy Bell 403.700.7880 windhorseretreat@gmail.com Dena Squarebriggs 403.760.0512 dmsquare04@hotmail.com Nicolas Brown 587.988.3590 bruchev@gmail.com Trish Mrakawa 403.938.6398 trish@willowgrovestables.com Nicolas Brown 587.988.3590 bruchev@gmail.com Alison Douglas 403.762.8570 thealicat@shaw.ca Tara Gamble 780.945.7516 tara@tghorsemanship.com Jason Edworthy 403.651.5678 jedworthy@spring-bank.ca Tiara Chambers 780.897.7446 royaltequestrian@gmail.com Janine Leroux 403.968.3311 j_zuk@hotmail.com Melonie Myszczyszyn 403.932.1108 meloniemysz@cciwireless.ca Brenda Spanier 403.932.2936 brendaspanier@gmail.com Becky Taylor 403.507.9935 beckyt.rvt.mapc@gmail.com Robert Simpson 780.628.2356 rms210@mail.usask.ca

AEF STAFF

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Sonia Dantu execdir@albertaequestrian.com 403.253.4411 ext 5

MEMBERSHIP

Norma Cnudde membership@albertaequestrian.com 403.253.4411 ext 1 MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS

Robyn Weatherly marketing@albertaequestrian.com 403-253-4411 ext 6

COACHING

Erin Rabeau coaching@albertaequestrian.com 403.253.4411 ext 3 COMPETITIONS

Hilary MacDonald competitions@albertaequestrian.com 403.253.4411 ext 2 FINANCE, GENERAL INQUIRIES

Rita Bernard info@albertaequestrian.com 403.253.4411 ext 7

OFFICE HOURS: 8:30AM TO 4:30PM, MONDAY TO FRIDAY, EXCEPT HOLIDAYS ALBERTA BITS IS PUBLISHED BY WESTERN PERFORMANCE PUBLISHING IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE AEF

FOR EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES CONTACT: ALBERTABITS@ALBERTAEQUESTRIAN.COM MANAGING EDITOR Jennifer Webster ART DIRECTOR Kendra Roberts PUBLICATION COMMITTEE

Sonia Dantu • Louisa Murch White • Robyn Weatherly CONTRIBUTORS

Andrew Bako. Courtesy of CBC., Callaghan Creative Co. Evolve Photography, Freemark Photography, Darrell Glover, Mountain View Gazette, Taylor Hillier Photography Twisted Tree Photography, Whitney Cowan Photography ADVERTISING SALES REPRESENTATIVES

Sally Bishop 403.815.1289 sallysuebishop@gmail.com ADVERTISING SALES DEADLINES SUMMER 2019: April 26, 2019 FALL 2019: September 6, 2019

FOR A MEDIA KIT AND/OR RATE CARD PLEASE CONTACT ALBERTABITS@ALBERTAEQUESTRIAN.COM or marketing@albertaequestrian.com. All material is copyright 2019. Ideas and opinions expressed in articles do not necessarily reflect the ideas or opinions of the AEF. Alberta Bits reserves the right to accept, and/or edit material submitted for publication. The AEF makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information contained therein, but assumes no liability in cases of error or changing conditions. Any business relations or other activities undertaken as a result of the information contained in Alberta Bits, or arising therefrom, is the responsibility of the parties involved and not of the AEF. We welcome signed letters to the editor, but reserve the right to publish, edit for grammar, taste and length. For reprint information, please contact execdir@albertaequestrian.com

6 PRESIDENT ’S M ESSAGE 6 EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE 7 I N T H E C OM M U N I T Y Our new column which highlights the feel-good stories of members

in our equestrian community.

Bighorn Country Proposal.

KID’S C ORNER

8 10 BIT S & PIECES Rookie Riders introduced to Alberta and an update on the

12 TRAILER SAFETY Arrive safely at your destination with tips to avoid hauling stress.

14 HORSEKEEPING Four guidelines to help you (and your mare) through a successful

foaling process.

equine-themed imagery into your big day.

16 BREED PROFILE Known for its characteristically wild and curly coat, there are many

reasons to love the Curly Horse.

20 DEEPLY PRESENT A look back on 12 seasons and an exclusive interview with Heartland’s Amber Marshall and Graham Wardle.

26 EQUESTRIAN WEDDINGS Are you planning an upcoming wedding? Here are some ideas for adding 28 ASK AB OUT INSUR ANCE New changes on the insurance horizon for 2019.

30 CLUB & BUSINESS L ISTINGS Equestrian

Rookie Riders

WEDDINGS

INTRODUCED

Trailering

SAFETY

SPRING 2019

ALBERTA EQUESTRIAN FEDERATION

100, 251 Midpark Blvd SE Calgary, AB T2X 1S3 Toll Free: 1.877.463.6233 Phone: 403.253.4411 Fax: 403.252.5260

The Essence of Heartland

albertaequestrian.com

Exclusive interviews with Amber Marshall & Graham Wardle

PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT #40050297 • PRINTED IN CANADA • ISSN 1918 - 7114 RETURN UNDELIVERABLE MAIL TO : ALBERTA EQUESTRIAN FEDERATION 100, 251 MIDPARK BLVD SE CALGARY, AB T2X 1S3

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P U B L I C AT I O N S MA I L AG R E EME N T # 4 0 0 5 0 2 9 7

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ON THE COVER: Stars of the hit show Heartland, Amber Marshall and Graham Wardle return for a 12th season. Photo Andrew Bako.

Courtesy of CBC.

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October 25th - 27th

2019

ALBERTA BITS I SPRING 2019

5

Message from President, Lauren Parker As we ease gently into spring, I know I am not the only one grateful that Alberta was spared the harsh winter months of December and January. I didn’t miss doing chores in -30 degrees Celsius temperatures! The end of 2018 was busy, and as we move into 2019, we look forward to the joy and prosperity it will bring. Starting the year off on a positive note, we have just returned from a Provincial Sport Organization (PTSO) Summit in Toronto with Equestrian Canada that focused on strengthening the bonds between all PTSOs across the country and the national sport body; we look forward to growing these bonds in 2019.

As we move into a new membership year, I’d like to remind everyone about membership renewals and our referral program. This is a great way to get others around you involved and enjoying all the benefits of membership, and being rewarded for doing so. The referral program enables you to “earn” your memberships fees for the year, with the ability to receive a free membership in 2020.

We are looking to strategically strengthen our Board to best align ourselves for the success of our 2020 Strategic Plan.

Our nominations committee has worked diligently to outline what the AEF is looking for when evaluating prospective board members. All nominations received are reviewed by

the committee and individuals wishing to stand for election are voted on by the membership.

On March 23, the Board of Directors and office staff invite you to join us at Stride With Us, in conjunction with our AGM, being hosted in Red Deer, AB. It will be an evening filled with informative discussions, educational opportunities, a celebration of our members and recognition of this year’s Provincial Award Winners. It promises to be a wonderful event as we celebrate the success of our evergrowing community. We look forward to seeing you there.

It has now been a full year since I have been President, and I thank each and every one of you for your ongoing support.

You’ve made me a better horsewoman with the conversations we’ve had, a better representative of your values and interests by the events you’ve supported, and a better President by continuing to support equine activities within this province in earnest. I look forward to a prosperous 2019 for our organization and hope to continue the conversations and actions we’ve begun together.

Until next time, happy trails. AB

Message from Executive Director, Sonia Dantu This time of year is one of reflection and a time to review past goals, evaluate results and put new plans into place for a New Year. It sounds cliché, but it is crucial to have targets set to ensure accountability.

AEF focuses on four main areas, a number that may seem small to some, but allows us to prioritize our efforts to best serve our community and what is important to our members. The following are some of the numerous goals proudly reached by AEF in each of these four areas in 2018: Sport Community – $150,000 went to athletes under the age of 25, providing them opportunity to compete in the brand new, AEF lead, J.C. Anderson Legacy 1.20m medal and onto the Royal West National Championship. $20,000 went to individuals, clubs and shows that sanction within the AEF Wild Rose Competition program to help offset costs of a competition. $10,000 supported athlete development to encourage not only a healthy lifestyle, but to provide them with the skills, abilities and reinforcement to keep working toward their dreams of reaching the podium.

Recreation - $22,000 was expended on trail development and maintenance, liaising on various projects to help provide and improve access for equine riders/drivers across the province. $10,000 went into supporting no and low-cost youth and active living programming, to ensure the younger generation has the opportunity to participate in fun, challenging and rewarding programs.

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ALBERTA BITS I SPRING 2019

Industry - $23,000 was invested to continue Emergency Preparedness, training and collaborative industry meetings in continuing our quest to support the livestock industry and provide leadership.

Education - $50,000 went to promote clinics and events for all levels and areas of participation, providing opportunity for individuals to gain experience and knowledge they would normally not have the chance to experience. $22,000 was disbursed directly to the membership for athlete progression, scholarships and bursaries.

Close to 10% of revenue in 2018 came from generous donations and grants for many of the above projects – thank you for the meaningful contributions.

AEF is a community, an organization that is about equines and the people who share this passion. We invite you to renew your membership today if you have not already done so, and help further our communities’ growth. Did you know that by simply referring new members, you will receive a $5 credit toward your next year’s membership fees? Do not delay and renew today.

With thanks to the membership for your ongoing support, the Board for volunteering their time and our dedicated staff. We look forward to serving our community through 2019 and beyond. AB

IN THE COMMUNITY

Leading Role

Relief for California equines comes from an Albertan.

B Y J E N N W E B ST E R

On November 27, 2018, Darrell Glover, a native of Olds, AB, arrived in Oroville, CA, with 14,000 lbs. of horse feed from Canada.

A retired rancher, Glover was inspired to take action to help horse owners in the Chico region affected by wildfires. Along with many generous donations, he drove his stock trailer more than 1,900 kms to Camelot Equestrian Park, where many displaced or evacuated horses had ended up as Camp Fire raged on. When Camp Fire had finally reached containment, the +153,000 acre blaze was declared by authorities as the state of California’s deadliest fire in history.

“I imagined what it would be like to just open the gate and let all my horses free to run for their lives. Not knowing if I would ever see them again. I felt a very heavy heart for every one of those horse owners, losing everything they own,” recalled Glover.

“With the hillsides all burnt, the horses had nothing to eat.

Feeding those horses became an instant emergency. I just knew they needed help.”

Camelot Equestrian Park had seen numerous disasters over the last 19 years and has become the “go to” place for people of the area and their horses in the event of an emergency. Local authorities have also designated Camelot as the emergency hub for supplies.

People affected by wild fires could go and pick up the necessities they needed to keep their animals alive. Glover knew Camelot was his destination.

“People from the area were sending me pictures of the fires as things were happening,” said Glover. “In one of them you can see just how close the fire came to Camelot Equestrian Park, before the firefighters arrived. Camelot has always opened up their doors as an emergency depot for locals affected by fires and floods.”

As he arrived in late November, so did the National Guard, to help unload the supplies in his trailer.

“Initially, a couple of hundred horses were displaced as owners set them free to run,” Glover explained.

“As owners began to look for and reclaim their horses, the numbers were reduced that required shelter, but feed and tack were still a major item needed by those who lost everything. Even before I left, people were showing up at Camelot to acquire items.”

The supplies in Glover’s trailer had been donated by people from across Canada, from the US and even as far away as Germany. He garnered it all through requests made on Facebook. Knowing the situation was in need of more than a short-term solution, Glover also raised enough cash donations to purchase more feed and supplies down near Camelot’s location. AB Top: Many horse owners had to set their horses free to give them a chance at survival when Camp Fire threatened their homes and properties. Courtesy of Darrell Glover

Middle: Darrell Glover is a retired rancher from Olds, Alberta. In November 2018, he drove down 14,000 lbs. of horse feed to horses in California impacted by wildfires.

Photo: Mountain View Gazette Bottom: One of the fire pictures sent to Glover as Camp Fire raged on.

Photo: Courtesy of Darrell Glover

ALBERTA BITS I SPRING 2019

7

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5. Horses are transported in a _________?

6. What is a baby boy horse called?

7. A farrier trims a horse’s _________?

8. If an equine is under 14.2 hands high, it is called a _______?

4 5

6

7

8

answers on page 11

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ALBERTA BITS I SPRING 2019

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CORRECTION: In the Winter 2018 issue of Alberta Bits, there were three errors published in the Live Outside the Box, Grand Prize Winners article. Page 9

featured six children being awarded for highest horse time hours when in fact, three of those children should have been mentioned as having the highest outdoor activity hours instead. We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused. The three winners with their correct titles are listed below.

JAXON CALDWELL

AGE 9 – 3RD PLACE FOR HIGHEST

HAILEY LEWICKI

AGE 12 – 1ST PLACE FOR HIGHEST

OUTDOOR ACTIVITY HOURS Hailey has been riding horses since she was four years old. She was inspired to start when her dad took her to Cavalia eight years ago. She takes lessons with her amazing instructor, Sherry Menard, and also participates in Gymkhana events at the Josephburg Gymkhana Club. Hailey tries to ride as much as she can and enjoys spending time with her Quarter Horse Whiskey. She also likes hiking, exploring, riding, reading, collecting Breyer model horses, swimming and spending time with her best friends, Sasha and Elona.

MIKHAIL LEWICKI

AGE 8 – 2ND PLACE FOR HIGHEST

OUTDOOR ACTIVITY HOURS Mikhail is eight years old and lives in St. Albert, Alberta. He is in grade three and has many friends that he enjoys spending time with at school including Jasper, Dexter, Kenzo, Ameer and Koby.

Mikhail loves playing with his Beyblades and Lego and also enjoys playing video games, board games and chess. He enjoys collecting unique rocks for his special rock collection as well as hiking outdoors, playing and spending time with his favorite animal pals, “Pepsi� the mini horse, “Baby� the dog and “Java� the cat.

OUTDOOR ACTIVITY HOURS Jaxon is nine years old. He lives in a small town in southern Alberta and is an active member of the local Saddle Club. This year, Jaxon and his spunky Paint pony, Tom, entered in several Family Fun Rodeo events including poles, barrels, goat untying, flags, and for the first time this year, steer daubing. They did great and experienced so many firsts! When they weren’t taking part in events, we would often find Jaxon in the field just laying on Tom bareback in the pasture. Now, he is working towards team roping and has recently commandeered his dad’s heeling horse, Cash. They are looking forward to getting to know one another throughout the winter season and continuing to learn and grow together.

ALBERTA BITS I SPRING 2019

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BITS & PIECES

Rookie Riders Introduced

THIS EXCITING NEW PROGRAM OFFERS A SAFE AND FUN INTRODUCTION TO HORSES FOR NEW PARTICIPANTS. AEF strives to continuously offer opportunities and programs for athletes of all ages, abilities, and disciplines to learn and grow in pursuit of their goals. As we announced in the winter issue of Alberta Bits, Rookie Riders is the newest program to be introduced to the roster. Developed by Certified Coaches from the National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP), Rookie Riders teaches FUNdamental skills, as per the National Sport for Life Long Term Athlete Development Framework (LTAD). Geared towards children ages 6-12, the program is fun and engaging, with the goal to provide a strong foundation and prepare young equestrians to move into the first level of the National Western or English Learn to Ride programs.

In preparation for the muchanticipated program launch in Alberta, the first training event was held at SugarTide Equestrian in Okotoks, AB on December 8 and 9, 2018. Ten NCCP Certified Coaches attended the two-day, hands-on training facilitated by Ruth Allum and Danielle Yaghdjian from 10

ALBERTA BITS I SPRING 2019

Ontario. They worked through each of the program’s 12 sessions, and were given the opportunity to facilitate mock lessons which assisted in solidifying the integral elements that make this program so beneficial.

Victoria Forbes, AEF member and an NCCP Certified Coach, attended the training event and was very impressed by the program and what it offers to new participants.

“Not only is it about the kids having a good time and learning how to ride the horse, it’s learning how to ride the horse well, and understanding your body and the movements that are necessary,” she explains.

The program’s 12 lessons include basic gymnastics on a mat, movements on a barrel, and can include mounted exercises. The structure is fluid and can be easily modified based on the capability of each facility. Forbes explained that having the ability to practice positions and movements on a barrel will significantly improve not only the physical awareness of new riders, but also confidence.

“When you are getting onto a horse for the first time, there is a lot of trepidation about the largeness of the animal and the fact that they are freethinking beings. Having that barrel and having the ability to practice the positions without the intimidation of the large animal at first, especially for

small kids, is phenomenal. I can’t wait to implement it. It’s going to be amazing.”

She also points out that the element of fun that the program incorporates is beneficial.

“Training like this that makes time off the horse more valuable and fun, I think, is going to make such a difference. I think that’s the most exciting thing for me.”

Each coach who took the time to participate in the training now has the ability to deliver the program at their own, or another facility. If you are a certified coach, and are interested in offering Rookie Riders, stay tuned for upcoming training events or contact coaching@albertaequestrian.com for more details. AB

What Does the Bighorn Country Proposal Mean for Equestrians?

AN UPDATE FROM JASON EDWORTHY, CHAIR OF THE RECREATION COMMITTEE. In early fall 2018, we asked members what our priorities should be in supporting recreational horse riding. What we heard is that involvement in land use planning issues, such as the current Bighorn Country Proposal, is overwhelmingly important to equestrians.

BITS & PIECES

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A. Only if we, as a user group, request that. Currently, government is working with the volunteers who now manage that facility. Their view is that the existing system there works very well.

For more information regarding this proposal, visit: talkaep.alberta.ca/bighorn-country.

04 001

proposed Yaha Tinda Provincial Park be upgraded similar to sites like Little Elbow Equestrian?

001 04

Q. Will Eagle Creek Campground in the

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A. Yes, they will. Random camping will need to be more than 1 km away from designated campsites.

A. In some cases, quite likely, especially in front country campgrounds and facilities in the proposed David Thompson and North Saskatchewan River Provincial Parks. However, in the more rustic locations with very basic facilities, user fees are not likely to be needed.

On behalf of you, we are engaged in this and other land use consultations that affect equestrians. Please continue sharing your thoughts, concerns, and questions to help us best represent your voice in future consultations.

04 07 04

Q. Will equestrians be able to ride off designated trails and continue to random camp in the proposed Bighorn Wildland Provincial Park?

Q. Will these proposed changes result in user fees and new costs for us to visit this area?

04 04 07

Since being announced, we have also received many questions and concerns from the membership and have done our best to find answers. This is what we have obtained thus far:

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When the Bighorn Country Proposal was announced, along with public information and consultation plans, we not only alerted members, but set out to fully understand what it would mean for equestrians.

The following is information we have collected so far: The current round of public consultations is building on work from May 2014 under the North Saskatchewan River Regional Plan (NSRRP), as well as earlier work, which expressed concern about Bighorn Country and set the groundwork for the current proposal.

This round of public information and consultation sessions is only the first regarding Bighorn Country. It focuses solely on proposed legal designations and boundaries, such as for provincial recreation areas and new provincial parks. Details of almost any future change to use, rules, fees or similar items will be discussed in future consultations with various user groups, including AEF. As additional consultations take place, we will continue to represent and advocate for the best interests of equestrians.

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TRAILER SAFETY Arrive safely at your destination and avoid trailer stress in horses with these seven tips.

B Y J E N N W E B ST E R

Whether you’re headed down the highway for a spring schooling, or a highly anticipated competition, preventing stress in the trailer should be a primary consideration. While it’s important to ensure that your horse has been trained to load and unload safely well in advance, proper forward planning for any trip is crucial to ensure the entire transportation process goes smoothly.

12

ALBERTA BITS I SPRING 2019

1

Learn to assess your horse for health and fitness before trailering. Check and record your horse’s vital signs, such as temperature, respiration and pulse, as well as how much it drinks ahead of time. This provides important information as to what is normal for your horse and what is not.

2 Make sure the trailer you use is well ventilated and avoid traffic delays where possible, as constant movement of the vehicle will keep the air circulating within the trailer.

3

The type of trailer used, whether it’s a straight load, slant load or stock trailer, is primarily based on owner preference. While some horses will load more easily into a stock trailer because of its openness, make sure it offers sufficient head room for the height of your horse.

TRAILER CHECKLIST:

3

Ensure you have these items in your trailer in the event of an emergency: • Extra halter and lead rope • Manure fork and shovel • Ice scraper • Road Atlas • Horse documents including health certificates, insurance documents and Coggins tests • Cell phone charger • Crowbar • A bag of sand or kitty litter • Flashlight • Knife • Buckets • Jumper cables • Spare fuses and bulbs • Magnetic flashing light • Travel tool kit • Emergency flares or triangular reflectors • Equine first aid kit

4

Horses are subject to the same laws and regulations as other animals during transport.

Horse owners should be familiar with the regulations and policies administered by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency. The regulations cover areas such as allowable time without feed, water and rest, and using equipment that won’t cause injury.

5 Knowing about inclement weather before you hit the highway can help you avoid potential accidents.

6

Avoid unloading your horses at rest stops if possible. Some places near highways may treat the grass with chemicals, which you don’t want your horse to eat. Plus, in the event a horse becomes loose, the animal could break away into highway traffic.

7

Make a plan to rest and water your horses, especially on long hauls. This will help your animals endure the stress of trailering and arrive at the destination happy and healthy.

ALBERTA BITS I SPRING 2019

13

HORSEKEEPING

GUIDELINES FOR A SUCCESSFUL DELIVERY The foaling process should be easy and uncomplicated.

Here are four guidelines for a safe and successful delivery.

B Y LOU I S A M U R C H W H I T E

Approximately 11 months ago, you made a big decision for you and your beloved mare. You picked a stallion that you thought would cross best with her and you anxiously awaited the confirmation of pregnancy. Now you find yourself up three or four times in the middle of the night, checking 14

ALBERTA BITS I SPRING 2019

on her to see if your foal has decided to make an appearance. Don’t panic; if you are a first time breeder, labor and delivery may seem momentous, but more often than not, the process is uncomplicated. Here are four tips to ensure peace of mind when foaling time comes around.

1

Have a Veterinarian on Standby

As a responsible breeder, you have likely been in contact with your veterinarian throughout the breeding process.

Your mare has received the proper vaccinations, nutrition and care leading up

HORSEKEEPING STAGE THREE is when the afterbirth (placenta) is expelled. Most placentas are passed within one to three hours after the foal is delivered. If the placenta has not passed within three hours, call your veterinarian. A retained placenta can cause serious problems, including infection and laminitis.

to delivery, and you know she is in great health. However, it never hurts to have your veterinarian’s telephone number closeby in case of an emergency. Like anything in life, it is better to be safe than sorry. If you are a first time breeder, schedule a time to discuss labor and delivery with your veterinarian to ask any questions or air any concerns you may have. If you are still nervous about the process, perhaps have an experienced friend on standby as well to assist you in the delivery. Additionally, there are custom foaling operations that you may consider sending your mare to for the foaling process. Should you decide upon this option, be sure to check references. This will help you to be sure that your mare is receiving the best care, giving you piece of mind.

2a

Ensure your Mare has a Safe Place to Foal

Each horse and each breeder is an individual. Horses have been foaling out on their own for many years, so if you decide to let your mare foal out in pasture, that is perfectly acceptable. A grassy area is likely to be cleaner than a stall and provides a safe and open space for your mare to foal.

Many owners choose to foal their mares in stalls for the convenience of monitoring and additional safety precautions, if anything goes wrong. If you are going to take this route, provide a stall that is a minimum of 14’ x 14’ so your mare can move around and foal comfortably. For bedding, straw is preferable over shavings as it is more sanitary. Shavings will cling to a wet newborn baby, which could cause infection of the umbilicus. Finally, ensure that the floor can be quickly cleaned and disinfected. Remove manure and any soiled bedding promptly after delivery.

3

Understanding the Foaling Process

According to the American Association of Equine Practitioners, labour is divided into three stages: STAGE ONE begins with the onset of contractions and generally lasts one to two hours. During this time your mare

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may stand up, lie down and roll several times to find a proper position for the foal to be delivered. During stage one, contractions move the foal through the cervix and into position in the birth canal. The fetal membranes may become visible at the mare’s vulva. When the sac breaks, signalled by a rush of fluid, stage one has ended.

STAGE TWO is when the foal arrives.

This phase moves quickly. If it takes more than 30 minutes for the mare to deliver, there is most likely a problem. If there is no significant progress within 10 to 15 minutes after the membranes rupture, call your veterinarian immediately. Normal presentation of the foal resembles a diving position, with front feet first, one slightly ahead of the other, hooves down, followed closely by the nose, head, neck, shoulders and hindquarters.

If you notice hoof soles up, the foal may be backwards or upside down and you should call your veterinarian immediately. Allow the foal time to break the fetal membranes. Normal membranes that cover the foal are white or yellow and translucent; however, watch for red/maroon membranes covering the foal as it emerges from the vagina. This can signify the most deadly of foaling emergencies: a premature rupture of the chorioallantois, known as “Red Bag Delivery.” If this occurs, it means the foal is detached from its blood and oxygen supply and that the placenta must be torn open immediately.

Postpartum Care

Following the birth, monitor that the foal is breathing normally and seems bright and alert to its new surroundings.

The foal should make attempts to rise within 30 minutes following delivery.

Your mare should be non-aggressive, curious and accepting of her newborn.

The foal should stand up and nurse within two hours of birth and should pass its meconium, the first sticky, dark stool, within 12 hours after birth.

It is essential that the foal receive an adequate supply of the mare’s first milk, known as colostrum, which is extremely rich in antibodies and provides the foal with immunity to help prevent disease until its own immune system is fully functioning. A foal must receive colostrum within the first 8-12 hours of life in order to absorb the antibodies. If your foal is too weak to nurse, it may be necessary to milk the mare and give the colostrum to the foal via a stomach tube.

Although labor and delivery can provide owners with sleepless nights and anxiety, the image of your newborn foal finding its legs and running around will make that all disappear. Here’s to spring, and happy, safe and successful foaling! AB

Opposite Page: Foaling occurs approximately 338 to 345 days from the last breeding date. It’s a big investment. Help your mare through it with these tips for a smooth foaling.

Top: Ensuring your mare has a clean and safe place to foal is one of the best things you can do to guarantee a successful delivery. Above: Provide a stall that is a minimum of 14’ x 14’ so your mare can move around and foal comfortably.

Photos: Jenn Webster

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BREED PROFILE

THE CURLY HORSE It isn’t hard to guess how the Curly Horse received its name. The breed is known for its characteristically wild and curly hair coat. Yet, there are many more intriguing and interesting facts about the breed than its coat.

B Y LOU I S A M U R C H W H I T E

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BREED PROFILE Perhaps one of the most fascinating aspects about the Curly Horse is that we are still unsure of the breed’s history and origin. The first documentation of the Curly Horse is thought to appear in Asian artwork as early as 161 AD. Naturalist, Charles Darwin documented Curly Horses in South America in the early 19th century. A photo of a curly coated Bashkir horse from Russia was printed in the 1938 March issue of the Nature magazine entitled, The Evolution of the Horse. There is evidence showing that Curlies have been in North America since the early 1800s. Pictographs show that in the winter of 1801-1802, the Sioux had stolen Curly Horses from the Crow tribe. This incident placed the tribes at the Standing Rock/Cheyenne River Reservation, where further artwork shows Curlies carrying warriors in the historic Battle of Little Bighorn. Commonly referred to as Custer’s Last Stand, this battle took place

southwest corner of Europe. Iberian horses are thought to be among the oldest types of domesticated horses. Modern Iberian breeds tend to be of a baroque horse type that resemble their most famous member, the Andalusian horse.

A final theory is that the ancestor of the Curly Horse might have crossed the land bridge during the last Ice Age. However, there is no fossil evidence to support the existence of horses in the Americas from the last Ice Age until the reintroduction of horses to this hemisphere by the Spanish.

Curly Horses were first historically attached to the Sioux and Crow tribes in Montana and South and North Dakota, but in the early 20th century they reappear in Eureka, Nevada.

At this time Mustangs were a common sight on the range, but curly-coated horses were unusual. A rancher, John Damele and his sons, managed to catch a wild Curly Horse.

along the Little Bighorn River in the Crow Indian Reservation in southeastern Montana Territory. However, the mystery continues; how did Curlies get to North America in the first place?

The reigning theory for many years was that Curly Horses originated from the Russian breed of Bashkir horses, who also have a curly coat. It was thought the horses were originally shipped with the Russian colonists who tried to settle America’s Northwest territory during the 1700s. This theory suggests that when colonists abandoned their expansion plans West, they set the remaining horses free. However a twoyear study, published in 1990 by scientists at the Moscow Zoo in conjunction with the Russian Ministry of Agriculture, found it unlikely that the North American Curly Horse descended from the Bashkir breed, in spite of its curly coat and being referred to as the “American Bashkir Curly”.

Another theory is that the origin of the breed is Iberian, related to the Iberian horse which is a title given to a number of horse breeds native to the Iberian Peninsula in the

They noted that after a unusually harsh winter, the only horses that could be found were Curlies come spring time. The Damele family realized how hearty these Curly Horses were and decided to include more in their own herd. This decision started as arguably, the first breeding program of Curly Horses in America. The Dameles captured their first stallion, a chestnut that they called Copper D and then added other stallions to their herd, which included a Morgan stallion, Ruby Red King AMHR 26101 and an Arabian stallion, Nevada Red AHR 18125. The mix of these three stallions created one of the first Curly Horse bloodlines that we know of in North America today.

It was the Dameles who also unwittingly began the theory that the Curly Horse was related to the Russian Bashkir horse. The original image of the Bashkir horse that appears in The Evolution of the Horse was later drawn by John Hix and featured in a cartoon called, “Strange as it Seems.” The clipping had been saved in a scrapbook by the family, and this information was one of the factors that

“Curly Horses are commonly used in competitive and endurance trail riding, and are excellent mounts in the mountains, for ranch work or as all-around pleasure horses.”

Two Curly Horses show off the dominant curly coat the breed has become known for.

Photo: ABC Registry

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BREED PROFILE helped in determining the name of the unique breed, often called the American Bashkir Curly Horse.

In 1971, The American Bashkir Curly Horse Registry (ABC Registry) was founded. At this time, wild Curly Horses were being slaughtered and the founders set out to save the Curly Horse from extinction.

They reached out to owners throughout the country and began to establish breed traits that are still recognized today.

Today the Curly Horse can be referred to as Bashkir Curlies, American Bashkir Curlies and the North American Curly Horses. They come in all sizes, colours and body types, but they all carry a gene for the unique curly coat of hair. The Curly Horse gene appears in all common horse colours, including Appaloosa and Pinto.

They somewhat resemble the Morgan horse, are medium in size, and have soft, calm looking eyes with an unusual slant to them. This slant gives them a larger range of vision to the rear. The Curly Horse has a proud carriage and most move at a running walk. They have unusually tough black hooves and stout round cannon bones, straight legs that also move straight, flat knees, strong hocks and a short back, round rump, powerful shoulders and a round barrel. All these physiological traits of the Curly Horse make them strong endurance horses.

The unique curly gene they possess can be expressed minimally, which would show curly hair inside ears, at fetlocks, mane and tail, or maximally, which would show hair curled all over the body, dreadlocked mane, curly eyelashes and guard hairs.

Extreme expression would consist of very tight, extreme curls, but when the horse sheds out for the summer, it can shed almost entirely bald. Often Curly Horses also have a double mane which splits down the middle leaving curly ringlets hanging on both sides of the neck. The trait can also be carried without exhibiting in the horse itself, meaning there are some Curlies that exhibit no curl and are known as “smooth coat� Curlies.

Curly Horses are also claimed to be a hypoallergenic horse breed. Most people who suffer from horse dander-related allergies can handle Curly Horses without suffering any allergic reaction. Research indicated a protein is missing from the hair of Curlies, which may be what causes 18

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BREED PROFILE allergic reactions to normal horses. This has yet to be fully proven, and members of the Curly Horse community are working towards funding more research on the topic to prove the hypoallergenic theory to be true.

There are currently four registries and organizations involved in the Curly Horse breed. The American Bashkir Curly Registry was the first; they have a closed stud book and only issue registration to horses with two registered parents. The International Curly Horse Organization began in 2000, and horses are not referred to as “Bashkir Curlies.�

This registry bases horses on visible curly traits, rather than bloodlines. Curly

Sporthorse International began in 2003 to promote sport horse-type Curly Horses, and was created to support owners and breeders in improvement of breeding stock, promotion and marketing. In Canada, one of the main organizations is the Canadian Curly Horse Association, which was formed in 1993.

Curly Horses are commonly used in competitive and endurance trail riding, and are excellent mounts in the mountains, for ranch work or as all-around pleasure horses. They are a diverse breed that also has champions in western riding, reining, roping, jumping, English equitation, western pleasure, dressage and driving. AB

Opposite page top: Curly Horses are noted to have long, curly, double sided manes. Photo: Sonja Oakes Opposite page bottom: Missouri’s Thunder, a Curly Horse that works as a reining horse. Photo: Riverside Curly Horse Ranch Above: Curly Horses are known for their athleticism and endurance, and are commonly used as sport horses. Photo: ABC Registry ALBERTA BITS I SPRING 2019

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DEEPLY PRESENT In a world full of so much uncertainty, it’s nice to be able to come home to Heartland.

B Y J E N N W E B ST E R

Now the longest-running Canadian television drama in history, the CBC original series, Heartland will surpass its 200th episode in its current 12th season, which airs through April of 2019. And it’s easy to understand why.

In an age when parents are nervous to switch on the tube for fear of what their children might see, the day-to-day challenges of the Bartlett-Fleming clan and the pursuit of forgotten dreams on the Heartland ranch are like a breath of fresh air. In our society of disconnection, the show recognizes the importance of “family first” and gives its audience something to relate over. Add all that to the idyllic scenery of the show that is as omnipresent as one of the human characters and air it to viewers on a Sunday eve – after we’ve likely spent the rest of the week submerged in an 20

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online environment – Heartland is an escape. Viewers are transported to Alberta Mountain vistas, scenes of charming wooden barns and fields of grassy foothills where wild horses gallop on the horizon.

Heartland delivers us to the authentic soul of the horse and the furthest reaches of the human heart. Altogether, it’s a beautifully concocted recipe for longevity.

Recently, we spoke with two of the main characters, Amber Marshall who stars as Amy Fleming and Graham Wardle, who stars as Tyler “Ty” Borden. Fans of Heartland have watched the characters grow up together and in season 12, the show opens with Amy and Ty trying to balance life with their toddler and perpetually busy schedules. Here’s what the actors had to say about the success of their Canadian family television drama:

Q. What has been one of your favourite storylines across the many seasons?

AMBER I think I always go back to the liberty work with horses.

We saw it more prominently in season five and following – with Spartan doing liberty work. I believe it was the most authentic thing you could do with a horse on set. There are so many people around and there’s so much going on and yet, you have to be connected with the horse. No trainer can help you in that moment. To make the scene real, you truly have to have the connection with the animal. That’s why it also brought me the most joy.

When you see the character of Amy display joy in those scenes it was so real, because I myself, was experiencing pure joy. Liberty is my favourite horse activity and story line because I’m so drawn into it.

We used Niki Flundra’s horses for the liberty horses and the stunts of rearing or bareback riding. She has her black horse “Ziata” and I really love him. He’s such a great addition to the Spartan character.

One of my favourite scenes involved the character of Tim facing his mortality in season 11. The scene when he woke up early in the desert of Mongolia and stared into the morning sun was so powerful to me. Tim saw a falcon and it was a very poignant moment for him. Being sick and not knowing if he should tell his family.

I really loved watching Tim’s story line there. I watched a rough cut of that episode in the editing suite and it just got to me – right in the heart. For me, that’s the most sacred thing.

When you come back home to what matters. That’s what I like about Heartland – it’s about what matters. Priorities. That story line really stands out and is valuable to me

GRAHAM

Amy (Amber Marshall) and Ty (Graham Wardle) in the circular pen at the Heartland ranch. Photo:

Andrew Bako. Courtesy of CBC.

Q. You have both “grown up” with Heartland in a sense;

if you could tell your season one-self anything now, looking back on 11 seasons, what would it be?

AMBER The

show has been my life for the last decade, plus. It’s shaped my life for sure. I don’t think I would tell myself anything and the reason is because each year, we never knew if we would be renewed. We made each year our best. We cherished every moment. And that’s still the case. I don’t think I’d want to tell myself anything. How it happened was exactly how it was supposed to happen. It made everything fresh.

GRAHAM I would ask myself a question, “If you already had what you eagerly seek, how would you act differently?” I know that everything happens for a reason, so I wouldn’t want to spoil the adventure for myself, however I would want to create more awareness around what forces were motivating me and for what purpose. When I was younger, I had a very determined attitude and I know now, how important it is to stay grounded.

Q. Heartland has proved to be a major hit across Canada, but was also embraced largely by Americans when it was released on Netflix. What do you think makes it so universally popular?

AMBER The

stories are universal. A lot of the topics we cover can relate to anyone in the world. We try to recognize how important family is because in the generation of now, many people are losing touch with that family connection. There’s such a disconnect in society. Heartland brings us back to a place where it’s family first. It helps people recognize what’s important, right now.

I have so many parents come up and say to me, “We didn’t have anything in common with our children. Ever since Heartland was made available to us, we can connect with them! We spend time together watching the episodes. We can talk about what’s happened on the show.” That’s so important. Especially in today’s society when people are becoming so disconnected.

I don’t know for sure. But I know what resonates with me – the show at its core, is about healing and coming home.

The relief of the horses and all animals in general, always being present, is a great tool and guide for people who are often stuck in memories of the past or stuck in unfortunate circumstances.

Perhaps they have made mistakes, or are experiencing tough

GRAHAM

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At the Heartland dining room table Georgie (Alisha Newton, left) shares a light moment with Ty (Graham Wardle) and Amy (Amber Marshall).

Photo: Andrew Bako. Courtesy of CBC.

times, or are worried about the future. Animals are for the moment. And that’s where healing begins. It’s about here and now and focusing on what you do have! Animals and specifically horses, are very gentle, huge and powerful – but they are always present. That to me, is a winning combination for that process of healing and coming home.

Q. 200 episodes is a major milestone. What do you

think appeals to Heartland viewers, season after season?

What specific attributes have blessed Heartland with its longevity?

AMBER Heartland

is almost like a breath of fresh air for a lot of people. The vistas that we see are like a character in themselves.

People love the horses and the stories but when they watch Heartland, it transports them. It’s one of the only television shows in the world where a lot of scenes are Alberta-based, and as such this show can awe people with its scenery. I live in

Alberta and I have horses, but even when I watch the show, I can’t help catching myself when I see a herd of horses running across beautiful scenery. It’s not a cop or hospital show that is mostly featuring an indoor, or at-night setting. We get to see our beautiful country in the most beautiful light. I still cry sometimes! People always ask me why. I don’t necessarily get emotional about the stories themselves, but a herd of wild horses always brings a tear to my eye. It’s very powerful to watch.

There are many forces at work with the success of television productions. I feel grateful for the other cast members and crew who have been dedicated and focused on creating the best show we can make. If there were a magic success formula that makes a show run this long – I don’t have it. And I don’t think it exists. So it’s better to focus on what I can contribute and how I can grow during the process.

GRAHAM

FURTHER QUESTIONS WITH AMBER

Q.

A while ago, there was a casting for a local Alberta girl to appear in an upcoming show. Are you able to reveal any details about that character or the girl who was chosen?

I can tell you that was a very fun experience for me! I was able to participate in the audition process and coach girls who have never acted. It was a new experience for them and I was really impressed. It inspired me to see these young girls come out and step out of their comfort zones to try something new. I think we found a wonderful actress (who didn’t have prior acting experience). It was unique for us to embrace that and say, “This is going to be awesome! You’re going to have so much fun!”

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Q. Your character “Amy” has participated in so many different disciplines throughout the years. What was your personal favourite discipline to try out in the show?

My favourite thing about this show is that I get to try so many disciplines! I’ve been able to learn lots of things that I never would have imagined otherwise. Being able to play with horses on set is unreal. As a horse person, I started in English riding and moved to western. Amy is the character on Heartland who is the “miracle girl.” She has a magical power that allows her to be good at nearly any kind of discipline she tries. That awakens the young horse girl inside of me, on a personal level.

This year, we featured team penning. For the 200th episode

(episode seven of season 12), Amy and Tim go head to head and pick their teams against each other. On my days off, I have a Peptoboonsmal horse of my husband’s that I had been penning with on the weekends. So being able to work and play on the same day was amazing! I fully embraced it. I almost felt like a team captain for our team on set, because I had already been penning on the weekends. It was fun for me to combine work and play.

Q. How have you developed your riding and horsemanship skills for the show?

It’s really up to each of us to learn a discipline if that’s what we want to do. There’s no time on set to be coached, because it’s a heavy schedule. Back in season five when I knew I was doing the liberty work, I went to Niki Flundra on the weekends. She taught me with her horses so I knew all of their cues. When she brought them on set I could keep that realism and recreate that magic, like we practiced. That’s one thing that sets this show apart – all of us want to make it as real as it can be. We want to be able to do these things ourselves. Alisha Newton really dove into it too! She’s been taking jumping lessons for years now, to help make her character of Georgie real.

So many people say, “I’d love to do that but I can’t.” When it comes to horsemanship and the varying disciplines, everyone can do it, but it’s how much time and effort you put into it. And to be honest, if things don’t come easily enough, sometimes I’m reluctant to do them. But my husband has pushed me to get over that. It gives me the opportunity to go try different things.

Q. You have taken raptor classes to learn to work with falcons and hawks. Are there are any similarities in working with birds vs. horses?

I think all animals have similarities because they are so much more real. There are more present than any human I know. And in the beginning, all animals may see humans as threats.

The raptors I worked with were being rehabbed to be released, not tame, friendly pets. There were hawks, falcons and eagles that were suffering trauma. That means, you always have to be on guard because they could hurt you. But not only that, you want to be their safe zone and make them comfortable around you so they don’t hurt themselves further.

You can relate those principles to other animals too, especially horses. You never want to put them in a situation where they feel threatened, or their instinct is to flee. On the show, when you have that many people standing around a horse with big lights, a fog machine, cameras and the different things required to make a setting, that can be intimidating to the animal. We have all really learned to beware of the situation and know that when we’re acting – but the horse believes that everything we’re doing is real. They don’t know it’s make believe. We’ve learned how to break down scenes into little pieces, so it’s easier for the animals that work with us.

For instance, in one scene when I was riding Spartan, I was supposed to be yelling as part of the script. As I was yelling and acting, my horse’s body started tensing up. Then in the next scene, he started bucking with me! Here was my normally docile animal co-worker, but it was like he asking me, “Why are you yelling?”

I was able to get him under control, but I realized we needed to switch tactics because for the purposes of acting, I was telling my horse that something was wrong. There are things that we need to accomplish for the show, but we cannot worry our animal co-stars as we do so.

Amber Marshall and Graham Wardle star as Amy and Ty on Heartland. Photo: Andrew Bako.

Courtesy of CBC.

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FURTHER QUESTIONS WITH GRAHAM

Q. You have interests in photography and producing

movies. Any projects in the works you can tell us about?

Creative projects go through different phases for me. At the beginning, I keep them as private as possible. As they are delicate and it is my job to nurture them. Once they reach the stage of production and preparation to be released, I begin to speak about them. Right now I have several projects in the beginning phases. So nothing to share yet. However, I do feel very blessed and passionate about them.

Q. While the Mongolian scenes in Heartland were

largely filmed in Drumheller, AB, what made you actually want to travel to Mongolia to shoot some additional footage on your own?

I think the question just kind of popped into my head one day and I thought, “What if you actually did this?” I got excited about the possibility. It was a huge unknown. It was one of those things I didn’t have to do, but I really thought it would be cool if I did. Drumheller really feels like Mongolia, but when you have an actual shot of Mongolia and you cut to Drumheller – viewers feel it more. The excitement comes from stepping off into the unknown. It’s scary and uncertain but at the same time is full of possibility and potential. I love riding that wave in life and venturing out into the unknown.

Q.

Are you an adventurer by nature?

In my heart I am. I believe we all are. Yet there are times where I retreat in fear from life and adventure. I become lost in a sense and lose track of my heart. I feel this is true for all people. We are all adventurers in this experience we call “life.”

But some of us just lose track of our adventurous spirit and need some time to reconnect with it.

Q. What has been your approach for understanding veterinary medicine, to assist with your character of “Ty” in his current role?

I have spoken with a few veterinarians and studied their behaviour and attitudes towards life. I feel it is important to appreciate and understand why people do what they do, in the career. I wanted to know why they wanted to help animals.

And I wanted to ensure I carried that same spirit in line with my role. I also receive countless tips and guidance from people in the profession, so I can accurately portray the skills of a veterinarian as best I can.

Q. Do you have a favourite character horse in the set of Heartland?

My favourite is Sugarfoot, played by Little Chief. We haven’t seen him in a while, but he has such a big spirit! I just love it. I personally would love to see more of him in the show.

Q. What is one message you’d like to give your fans?

The thing that has moved me the most are the fans who have written me. Something resonated in them within the story 24

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line of Heartland. They found some kind of healing or relation to Ty watching his journey, with his stepfather and father. I’ve had many fans write to me and share their own story of healing with their own fathers. They did the work for their healing and were inspired or helped along by the show and the character I play.

I keep those letters on my wall because in some indirect way, I have been a small part of someone else’s healing. So I would say to those people, keep going and believe in yourself. Love yourself and stand up for yourself.

Q. What potential do characters and filmmakers have to create change in the world?

I believe all change is created first from within. You cannot directly change anyone else. So as a filmmaker or actor playing a character, my job is to speak my deepest truth with courage and passion through the story. To continue growing and expanding myself as I refine my skills and share my joy of life. This, I believe, is true for anyone. The world is effectively changed when we are all coming from this inner place of joy and integrity.

Q. Is there anything I did not ask you, that you wish I had in this interview?

I would like to say how much I have enjoyed working with the little twins who play Lindy on the show, (Ruby and Emmanuella Spencer)! They have been so much fun to work with. The added challenge of working with a two-year-old on set, as an actor, is really fun. It’s no longer wanting your work just right - you have to get past that. You have to be present so you can play off of them.

Or if they’re doing something that doesn’t resonate with the scene, you have to find a way to make the scene come alive.

Sometimes, we have to do whatever we have to do to make it work. And other times, that principle can be overkill too. I remember in one scene, the director came over to me and said, “Your interaction with her is too much.” It’s a whole new arc with a two-year-old. You play games, but they don’t understand this is not real. You can’t ignore them, so you have to find creative ways to keep them occupied.

The whole crew was on the ball too! We had to smoothly cut into the scenes at times. I found it challenging but when it worked, it was so rewarding. Sometimes the script would tell you to do something but Ruby or Emmanuella would have a mind of their own. For instance in this season, there’s a scene with the treehouse at the end. Lindy comes over and peeks over the door as we were posed there. She did that all on her own. But we couldn’t have told her, “Go over there and smile and look over the door!” When she did it naturally, it was beautiful. Some stuff you can’t plan.

Q. Any personal goals for 2019?

Give, grow and gratitude is my mantra for 2019.

HEARTLAND Season 12 airs Sundays at 7 p.m. (7:30 NT) on CBC and CBC Gem through early April. The current and past seasons are available on-demand on the free CBC Gem streaming service.

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EQUESTRIAN WEDDINGS

LITTLE TOUCHES

Touches that are modern and earthy lend well to an equestrianthemed wedding.

Whitney Cowan Photography

These days, the options for including equine-themed imagery on your special day are endless.

B Y J E N N W E B ST E R

For horse people, an equestrian-themed wedding may be an obvious choice. For others, barn weddings or the symbolism of the horse in ceremonies, have become increasingly popular.

From a carriage ride, to an equine-themed topper on a cake, to a reception in a rustically luxurious barn, equestrian style can range over a wide spectrum of possibilities in weddings. It’s all the special little details that bring the equestrian spirit to life on your special day – with or without horses being present. If you’re considering a horse-themed wedding, we’ve put together a collection of ideas and considerations to help you include the imagery on your big day.

USING HORSES ON THE DAY Taylor Hillier Photography

There is nothing more beautiful than incorporating horses into a wedding ceremony.

However, the best advice a couple might want to consider would be to ensure someone else is there on the day of to care for your animals.

From bathing, to saddling, to holding them when you (as the bride and groom) are busy – it can be all be stressful if this detail is not determined in advance. Also, if a bride plans on riding to the ceremony, ensure all mounts used are desensitized to the dress! This kind of preparation should happen well before the wedding, to keep everything low-stress and running smoothly without any unscheduled dismounts.

Evolve Photography

©Teh Han Lin/Barcroft images

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ALBERTA BITS I SPRING 2019

TIP Many couples choose to include a special equine companion or two, in their weddings. Having a photographer who is comfortable working with horses may be a bonus on the big day.

Callaghan Creative Co.

Whitney Cowan Photography

Incorporating old awards, trophies, buckles or ribbons in TIP the reception in some fashion, is another way to mix the couples’ equestrian flare with the wedding celebration.

Whitney Cowan Photography

Happily ever after. This newly wedded couple, Janelle and Max Phillips, took some time for a beautiful bridal session with their equine partners after the ceremony.

Taylor Hillier Photography

THE RINGS

Table seating arrangements displayed

THE RINGS

Photos of rings included with details of your lifestyle, or on the equestrian boot of your choice, help you as a couple tell your story of the life you will soon share.

in a beautifully rustic, barn wood SEATING ORDER

frame. There are so many ways to include equestrian imagery TIP at a wedding.

ALBERTA BITS I SPRING 2019

27

ASK ABOUT INSURANCE

THE STRENGTH OF “PARTNERSHIP”

IT’S FREE!

Less screen time and more horse time equals great prizes, it’s that easy!

Leave the TV and computer behind and get outside to spend more time with your horse!

AEF members ages 7-15 are invited to keep track of how they are spending their time from April 1st until September 30th to win great prizes!

Sign up as part of your membership application.

For more information, visit www.albertaequestrian.com.

Win great prizes!

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ALBERTA BITS I SPRING 2019

For several years, my colleagues and I have had the great privilege of providing risk management education and insurance services to the Alberta horse industry in association with the AEF, and we want to say THANK YOU for that.

The partnership we have with all of you is one we never take for granted, and as 2019 gets rolling, it seems like a good time to do a quick analysis of where we are now and where we are heading.

As you know, the insurance provided automatically to all members of AEF is a broad and generous offering. The most coveted policy? The $5,000,000 personal liability insurance related to the ownership, leasing, borrowing, and general use of horses. It doesn’t matter how many non-commercial-use horses you own or use, nor does it matter where you keep them, or how many times you take them “off property” – as an AEF member, you are covered, worldwide, 24/7.

For those whom operate commercial facilities, mandatory AEF memberships for boarders, riding students and customers have become the norm – as it should be. Going to a horse show? You need to be a member. Allowing someone to ride your horse?

They need to be a member too. Accidents happen, so it’s crucial to protect yourself and the equines that we all hold so dear.

Sometimes, simply being in close proximity with a large animal, like a horse, can lead to injury. If that does happen, there is another policy automatically provided with the AEF membership to help. $30,000 of Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) coverage is included to cover a long list of serious and catastrophic injuries that can happen to any of us, at any time.

To further give you a piece of mind, we offer a number of optional insurance policies that have all been designed exclusively for the horse industry. Horse mortality insurance, insurance to cover vet expenses, insurance to cover the farm or commercial equine businesses – if it has to do with horses, we have a strategy to help protect you from loss.

We know that our partnership is a well-known benefit for AEF Members, but the organization does so much more than make insurance accessible. As you read through this magazine, those benefits become very obvious.

In 2019, we have committed more resources for education to the Alberta horse industry than ever before, and we hope that you will take advantage of every opportunity to learn something new.

In our ongoing work with coaches, facilities, vets, educational institutions and others, we know the opportunities are endless.

Cheers to partnerships that work!

Michael (Mike) King, CAIB, R.I.B.

Mike King is a partner at CapriCMW Insurance and the program lead for the PTSO programs across Canada. For more information, please call the Agri department at CapriCMW Insurance, 1-800-670-1877 or agri@capricmw.ca

JOIN OUR COMMUNITY W E

S H A R E

Y O U R

P A S S I O N

M E M B E R OR G A N I Z AT ION S A S OF F E B RUA RY 1 1 , 2 0 1 9 IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN FINDING OUT MORE ABOUT ONE OF THESE CLUBS, OR JOINING, MAKE SURE YOU CONTACT THEM Advocates for Special Kids......................................................................... conniehjalmar@gmail.com Alberta Carriage Driving Association (ACDA)............................................ www.albertadriving-acda.ca Alberta Central Region Pony Club ............................................................panddjensen@hotmail.com Alberta Dressage Association.................................................................... www.albertadressage.com Alberta Equestrian Vaulting Association......................................................................vaultcanada.org Alberta Friesian Horse Association........................................................................................... afha.ca Alberta Horse Trials Association................................................................www.albertahorsetrials.com Alberta Morgan Horse Club ......................................................... www.albertamorganhorseclub.com Alberta Mounted Shooters........................................................................ albertamountedshooters.ca Alberta South Region Pony Club............................................................. www.canadianponyclub.org Alberta Trail Riding Association........................................................................................ www.atra.ca Alberta Walking Horse Association................................................................................www.awha.ca Alix Agricultural Society..............................................................................alixagsociety@outlook.com American Saddlebred Horse Association of Alberta........................... www.saddlebredsofalberta.com Banff Light Horse Association................................................................................ruthann7@telus.net Bear Valley Rescue Society............................................................................... www.bearvalleyab.org Beaverlodge Pony Club.................................................................. beaverlodgeponyclub@gmail.com Bezanson Agricultural Society.............................................................................discoverbezanson.ca Black Diamond Polo Club............................................................................... blackdiamondpolo.com Border Cowboys Mounted Shooters Association..................... bordercowboysmountedshooters.com Bow Valley Riding Association.............................................................................bvra.wordpress.com Calgary Arabian Horse Association................................................... www.calgaryarabian.weebly.com Calgary Area Alberta Dressage Association............................................................. www.ca-ada.com Calgary Regional Appaloosa Club (1997).................................www.calgaryappaloosa.wildapricot.org Calgary Regional Trail Riders..........................................................www.calgaryregionaltrailriders.com Calgary Western Riders....................................................................calgarywesternriders@gmail.com Canadian Cowboy Mounted Shooters Association.......................www.canadianmountedshooters.ca Canadian Horse Breeders Association Rocky Mountain District......www.canadianhorsebreeders.com Canadian Morgan Horse Association................................................................ www.morganhorse.ca Canadian Registry of the Tennessee Walking Horse...................................................... www.crtwh.ca Canadian Sport Horse Association - AB Chapter...................................................... www.c-s-h-a.org Cassils Trail Blazers.................................................................................................. cweestra@live.ca Central Alberta Adult Riding Club .............................................................panddjensen@hotmail.com Central Century Team Ropers Association...................................www.centurycentralteamroping.com Central Peace Horse Association.................................................................................... cpha@live.ca Chinook Chapter (ACDA)......................................................................... www.albertadriving-acda.ca Chinook Country/Alberta Dressage Association........................................ douglorraine87@gmail.com Cleardale Riders Club ........................................................................ sandyrichardson@abnorth.com Clearwater Horse Club................................ www.facebook.com/cwhcpublic/?rf=155981401093436 Cooking Lake Saddle Club.................................................................www.cookinglakesaddleclub.ca Cottonwood Corrals Association (Jasper)............................cottonwoodcorralassociation@gmail.com Coulee Winds Saddle Club................................................................................ kheapy@outlook.com Davisburg Pony Club ................................................................................... donnellydigs@gmail.com Delacour Agricultural Society & Community Club.................................................www.delacourhall.ca Delacour Pony Club . .............................................................................cherianderson99@gmail.com DeWinton Pony Club.................................................................................. melouderkirk@yahoo.com Didsbury Agricultural Society....................................................................www.didsburyagsociety.org Dunmore Equestrian Society................................................................www.dunmoreequestrian.com Edmonton Area /Alberta Dressage Association.............................................................www.eaada.ca Endurance Riders of Alberta........................................................ www.enduranceridersofalberta.com Extreme Cowboy Alberta Association..................................................www.extremecowboyracing.ca Fairview Sport Horse Society............................................www.fairviewsporthorsesociety.weebly.com Family Fun Rodeo Series............www.facebook.com/Family-Fun-Rodeo-Series-1047456848661422 Foothills Therapeutic Riding Association........................................www.foothillstherapeuticriding.com Four: Thirteen Therapeutic Riding Association.................................... www.413therapeuticriding.com Friends of the Eastern Slopes Association................................................................... www.foesa.org Fun Country Riding Club of Strathmore.....................................................www.funcountryriders.com H.E.D.J.E. Society.............................................................................................lundkrista@gmail.com Hastings Lake Pleasure Horse Association................ www.hastingslakepleasurehorseassociation.org High Country Carriage Driving Club............................................. www.highcountrycarriagedriving.org High Country Pony Club.......................................................................... www.canadianponyclub.org High Kick Vaulters.................................................................................... highkickvaulters@gmail.com Highridge Thundering Hooves Gymkhana Club ..........................................hthgymkhana@gmail.com Hoofbeats For Hope Equine Team Society........... www.facebook.com/Hoofbeats-for-Hope-Equine-Team-320728417234 Irricana Riding & Roping Club..........................................www.facebook.com/irricanaridingropingclub Journeys Therapeutic Riding Society ............................................................................... www.jtrs.ca Jump Alberta Society.......................................................................................www.jumpalberta.com Lacombe Light Horse Association........................................lacombelighthorseassociation.webs.com Legerete Canada Alberta Chapter................................................................. www.legeretecanada.ca Lethbridge Therapeutic Riding Association....................................................................... www.ltra.ca Little Bits Therapeutic Riding Association....................................................................www.littlebits.ca Meadow Creek Vaulting Club.........................................................................................www.mcvc.ca Millarville Musical Ride.................................................................................millarville musicalride.com Miniatures in Motion Horse Club............................................................... www.miniaturesinmotion.ca Mount View Special Riding Association.....................................................www.mountviewriding.com Northern Trails Riding Club .............................................................www.northerntrailsridingclub.com Opening Gaits Therapeutic Riding Society of Calgary ....................................... www.openinggaits.ca Over the Hill Trail Riders ........................................................................................fjhorses@syban.net Peace Area Riding For The Disabled Society................................................................ www.pards.ca Peace Draft Horse Club...................................................................... www.peacedrafthorseclub.com Peace Region Alberta Dressage Association............www.albertadressage.com/peaceregion/peace-region-about.html Performance Standardbreds Association....................................................www.p-standardbreds.org Polocrosse Calgary................................................................................. www.polocrossecalgary.com Ponoka Riding & Roping Association.............www.facebook.com/groups/341339667487/?ref=direct Prentice Creek Equestrian Center....................................................................... ridepcec@gmail.com Quarter Horse Association of Alberta.......................................................................... www.qhaa.com Ranahan Polocrosse Club...................................................sites.google.com/site/ranahanpolocrosse Ridgeview Riding Club........................................................................ ridgeviewridingclub@gmail.com Rimbey Sleigh, Wagon & Saddle Club.......................................................rimbeyswsclub@gmail.com Rocky Mountain Gymkhana Club................................................. www.rockymountaingymkhana.com Rundle Riders Therapeutic Riding Association..................................................www.rundleriders.com Saddle Seat Canada...............................................................................www.saddleseatcanada.com Shortgrass Riding Club...........................................................................www.shortgrassridingclub.ca Society of Tilt and Lance Cavalry....................................................................................www.joust.ca South Country Team Penning Association.................................................................... www.sctpa.ca

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South Peace Horse Show Association............................................www.southpeacehorseclub.com Southern Alberta Trail Riders Association.....................................................................www.satra.ca Southern Century Team Roping Association ..............................www.southcenturyteamroping.com Springbank Equestrian Society........ springbankpark.com/index.php/springbank-equestrian-society Springbank Pony Club..............................................................................................c3inc@shaw.ca Spruce View Gymkhana Club...............................................................dwedmondson4@gmail.com Standard Rodeo Society.......................................................................zakariasenrobyn@gmail.com Steele’s Scouts Commemorative Troop Association........................................www.steelescouts.ca Stone Bridge Carriage Driving Club..............................................stonebridgecarriagedrivingclub.ca Strathcona All-Breed Horse Association........................................................ www.sahaalberta.com Tennessee Walking Horse Association Of Western Canada................................. www.twhawc.com The Calgary Hunt Club...............................................................................www.calgaryhuntclub.ca The Calgary Polo Club.............................................................................www.calgarypoloclub.com The Greater Bragg Creek Trails Association.............................................. www.braggcreektrails.org Trail Riding Alberta Conference............................................................................. www.trailriding.ca Traildusters Horse Club of Smith . ............................................................................. 780-829-3628 Tri-Country Riding Club......................................................................................schenk88@telus.net True Grit Cowboy Mounted Shooters Association...................... www.truegritmountedshooters.com Uplift Therapeutic Riding Association.............................. www.facebook.com/uplifttherapeuticriding Valleyview & Districts Agricultural Society...............................................www.valleyviewagsociety.ca Vegreville Agricultural Society.....................................................................................www.vegag.ca Welsh Show Association.......................................................... piperp13.wixsite.com/wildroseshow Western Canadian Wagon Train.................................................................... gsissons@hotmail.com Western Dressage Association of Southern Alberta.................................................. www.wdasa.ca Wild Rose Draft Horse Association.........................................................................www.wrdha.com Wildrose Mounted Shooters.................................................... www.wildrosemountedshooters.com Will For Riding Foundation..............................................................www.willforridingfoundation.com Xtreme Wild Rose Club............................................................................ xtremewildrose.webs.com

BUSINESS MEMBERS Alberta Association of Complementary Equine Therapy...................................www.aacet.ca Bar T5 Trailers and Tack.................................................................www.bart5trailers.com Barnyard Biscuits...................................................................... www.barnyardbiscuits.ca Banff Trail Riders............................................................................................horseback.com Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health........................................................ BICanadaEquine.ca CapriCMW Insurance........................................................................................ capricmw.ca Carpino Production & Design.........................................................palmocarpino@gmail.com Cartier Farms ....................................................................................... www.cartierfarms.ca Colchester Farms ........................................................................www.colchesterfarms.com Coulee Equine..............................................................................................couleeequine.ca Creekside Equestrian Centre........................................................................... www.mcvc.ca Daventry Equine Appraisal Services ...................................www.equineappraisers.com Equestrian Fashion Outfitters - Red Deer.............................. equestrianfashionoutfitters.com Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) Canada Ltd.................................. www.ealcanada.com Equine Connection Inc.................................................................. www.equineconnection.ca Equus Physio................................................................................ www.equusphysio.com Evolution Equi-Sport Therapy................................................... www.evolutiontherapy.ca Flatlander Equine . ................................................................................flatlanderequine.com Glen Valley Farm.................................................................................www.glenvalleyfarm.ca High Country Equestrian Center.......................................................hcequestriancenter.com Higher Trails Equine Ltd..................................................................... www.highertrails.ca Hi-Hog Farm & Ranch Equipment............................................................... www.hi-hog.com Horse In Hand Ranch Ltd................................................. horseinhandranch.com/index.html Just Passing Horse Transport & Bereavement Services................www.justpassinghorses.ca Kaspian Equestrian Training Centre (Rock-N-Rail Ranch Inc.)..... www.kaspianequestrian.com Katy Whitt Photography...........................................................................www.katywhitt.com Lawton & Co, LLP................................................................................... jwlawton@telus.net Mane Equestrian Athletics.............................................maneequestrianathletics@gmail.com Martin Deerline...........................................................................www.martindeerline.com Moose Hill Ranch.......................................................................... www.moosehillranch.com New View Stables..................................................................................newviewstables.com Olds College.......................................................................................www.oldscollege.ca Persons Equine Dust Control................................................................ www.personscs.com Precision Saddle Fitting........................................................www.precisionsaddlefitting.com Raema Racher Horsemanship....................................................raema_racher@hotmail.com Release Equine........................................................................... www.releaseequine.com Rocking Star Ranch Equine......................................................www.rockingstarranch.ca Rock’N Horse Ranch Arena & Stables.....................................www.rocknhorseranch.ca Saltaire Equestrian Haus............................................................... saltaireequestrian.com Silverado Horse Centre (LMJ Ltd.).................................www.silveradohorsecentre.com Spirit Winds Ranch........................................................ www.facebook.com/spiritwindsrnch Strathcona Ventures ...................................................................strathconaventures.com TD Equine Veterinary Group......................................................................... tdequinevet.com The Horse Store Calgary..................................................................www.horsestore.com The Mane Event Equine Education & Trade Show................................. maneeventexpo.com The School of Equine Massage and Rehabilitation Therapies................ www.equinerehab.ca Vitality Equine ..............................................................................www.vitalityequine.com W5M Equine Therapy..........................................................www.w5mequinemassage.ca Western Horse Review...........................................................www.westernhorsereview.com Westwood Warmbloods.................................................... www.westwoodwarmbloods.com Whitemud Equine Learning Centre Association................................................www.welca.ca Willow Grove Stables Inc............................................................ willowgrovestables.com

ALBERTA BITS I SPRING 2019 BE SURE TO SUPPORT OUR BUSINESS MEMBERS! THOSE LISTED IN BLUE PROVIDE DISCOUNTS TO AEF MEMBERS. VISIT OUR LIST OF EQUINE FACILITIES ON OUR WEBSITE!

WE INVITE YOU TO

STRIDE WITH US.

A CELEBRATION

OF OUR COMMUNITY. BANQUET | AGM MARCH 23, 2019 RED DEER, ALBERTA FEATURING Second Annual Provincial Awards Recognizing Outstanding Community Members Gourmet Dinner Keynote: Purina - Equine Nutrition Networking and Celebrating

Banquet & AGM Registration Deadline: March 7, 2019 For more information: call Toll Free 877.463.6233 or email: marketing@albertaequestrian.com

Radisson Hotel 6500 67 Steet Red Deer, Alberta Reservation Deadline: March 7, 2019 Special Event Rate $119 Call 1.800.661.4961 ALBERTA BITS I SPRING 2019

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RED DEER

A L B E R TA WESTERNER PARK

APRIL

26 - 28

2019 BIGGER BETTER! 50,000+ SQUARE FEET OF ADDITIONAL TRADE SHOW!

PLUS TWO BRAND NEW ARENAS

CLINICS DEMONSTRATIONS

PRESENTATIONS

SHOPPING

&

MORE! Advance Tickets Advance Tickets are on sale for the 13th Annual event. Order your tickets online and SAVE $$$! Tickets are available at the door also.

(844) 578-7518

Trainers Challenge The crowd pleasing Trainers Challenge returns with 3 top trainers and 3 unbroke horses.

Kade Mills - Alberta Rod Olsen - Alberta Competitor #3

Clinician Line-Up Jonathon Millar - Jumping Jaimey Irwin - Dressage Laurel Walker Denton - Ranch Riding Kendra Dickson - Barrel Racing Jill Barron - Working Equitation Dana Hokana - Performance Horses Merle Newton - CowDog Rodear Alex Fraser - Driving Nicole Carswell Tolle - Gaited Horses More Clinicians Being Added Weekly!

www.maneeventexpo.com