2019 Alberta Bits Summer Edition

Camping

WITH HORSES

Combatting

HEAT STRESS

AEF Award

WINNERS

SUMMER 2019

MENTAL

PERFORMANCE

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

HARNESSING THE POWER OF THE

PERCHERON

A LBE RTA E QU ESTR IAN .C OM

JOIN OUR COMMUNITY W E S H A R E Y O U R PA S S I O N

Complete insurance protection for the equine community.

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Through our long-standing partnership with the Alberta Equestrian Federation, we’re proud to support the equine community in Alberta.

Our dedicated equine department provides risk management and insurance expertise to protect coaches, trainers and facility operators. Our exclusive programs have proven success supporting professionals in the equine industry through risk management education and comprehensive coverage at affordable premiums.

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SEPTE MBER 10 & 1 DEERF 1, 2019 OOT IN N & CA SINO

APPLY TODAY for FALL 2019 & WINTER 2020!

CASINO VOLUNTEERS ARE NEEDED

This vital fundraising activity allows AEF to raise funds which help operate and deliver strong and viable member programs and services to our community.

Here’s what you need to know... ✔ Volunteering at a Casino is easy and FUN! ✔ You do not need experience! ✔ All volunteers must be over the age of 18 and not have a criminal record. ✔ Food is provided to volunteers FREE of charge and there are five restaurants at this facility! ✔ Hotel and transportation is covered (an additional night of accommodation for volunteers travelling at least 100 kms). ✔ We require a minimum of 25 volunteers to run this Casino successfully. ✔ Volunteers do NOT NEED to be members; bring your friends & family to help out! ✔ Volunteers are accepted on a first come, first serve basis for available shifts. ✔ If you volunteer for both days, you must work the same position, e.g. you cannot work as a cashier one day and chip runner the next. ✔ The money you are raising is going to support a great cause, so ENJOY! Volunteer positions required - Banker, Cashier, Chip Runners, Count Room and On Call!

If you are interested in donating your time to this cause, please visit our website or email execdir@albertaequestrian.com. We will confirm your participation in the Casino no later than August 16, 2019.

ALBERTA BITS I SUMMER 2019

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SUMMER 2019; VOLUME 12, ISSUE 2

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

TREASURER

INDIVIDUAL

INDIVIDUAL

INDIVIDUAL

INDIVIDUAL

INDIVIDUAL

INDIVIDUAL

INDIVIDUAL

INDIVIDUAL

Lauren Parker 403.813.1055 lmparker@shaw.ca Sandy Bell 403.700.7880 windhorseretreat@gmail.com Tiara Chambers 780.897.7446 royaltequestrian.com Nicolas Brown 587.988.3590 bruchev@gmail.com Trish Mrakawa 403.938.6398 trish@willowgrovestables.com Mazlie Cole 587.888.2363 statikequine@gmail.com Jason Edworthy 403.651.5678 jedworthy@spring-bank.ca 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

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PRESI DENT ’S MESSAGE EX ECUT I VE DI RECTOR’S MESSAGE K I D’ S C O R N E R

I N T H E C OM M U N I T Y Spirit Winds Ranch is helping students connect with horses in a

meaningful and powerful way.

COMPETITIONS

10 BI T S & PI ECES The Gait to Success clinic preview, a trail feature and AEF Provincial

FINANCE, GENERAL INQUIRIES

Award winners.

Hilary MacDonald competitions@albertaequestrian.com 403.253.4411 ext 2 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

Aleesha Harris, Twisted Tree Photography, Parks Canada, Piper Whelan ADVERTISING SALES REPRESENTATIVES

Sally Bishop 403.815.1289 sallysuebishop@gmail.com ADVERTISING SALES DEADLINES 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

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CAMPING WITH HORSES A guide to an overnight adventure with your equine companions.

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HORSEK EEPI NG Equine vaccines don’t come with a “one size fits all” policy.

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22 BREED PROFILE The mighty Percheron and the unique legacy it brought to Canada.

HORSEK EEPI NG How to combat the risks of heat stress.

26

T R A I NER’S C ORNER High performance mental coach, Dirk Stroda offers riders some tips

for competition success.

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ASK A B OUT I NSUR A NCE Understanding the benefits members of the AEF can receive.

CLUB & BUSI NESS LI ST I NGS

Camping

WITH HORSES

Combatting

HEAT STRESS

AEF Award

WINNERS

SUMMER 2019

ALBERTA EQUESTRIAN FEDERATION

120, 251 Midpark Blvd SE Calgary, AB T2X 1S3 Toll Free: 1.877.463.6233 Phone: 403.253.4411 Fax: 403.252.5260

albertaequestrian.com

THE AEF GRATEFULLY ACKNOWLEDGES FINANCIAL SUPPORT FROM ALBERTA SPORT CONNECTION

MENTAL

PERFORMANCE

PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT #40050297 • PRINTED IN CANADA • ISSN 1918 - 7114 RETURN UNDELIVERABLE MAIL TO : ALBERTA EQUESTRIAN FEDERATION 120, 251 MIDPARK BLVD SE CALGARY, AB T2X 1S3

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ALBERTA BITS I SUMMER 2019

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

HARNESSING THE POWER OF THE

PERCHERON

A L BE RTA E QU E ST R IA N . C OM

JOIN OUR COMMUNITY W E S H A R E Y O U R PA S S I O N

ON THE COVER: Steven Quon’s exquisite eye for detail helps us convey the perfect message for comprehending mental performance. www.stevenquon.com

THE FALL ISSUE OF IS COMING UP!

Amanda Ubell Photography

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20,000 individ

FEATURING Equine Colour Genetics

BREED PROFILE Fjords

ATHLETE DEVELOPMENT J.C. Anderson Legacy Medal

BONUS DISTRIBUTION AT FALL CLINICS AND EVENTS Booking Deadline - September 6, 2019 For advertising inquiries, contact: marketing@albertaequestrian.com

WE HAVE MOVED!

Don’t worry, we didn’t move far!

In fact, we are right across the hall in a new suite.

Our updated address is: Suite 120-251 Midpark Blvd. SE, Calgary, Alberta, T2X 1S3 ALBERTA BITS I SUMMER 2019

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Message from President, Lauren Parker

It is a much-welcomed sight to see green grass popping up around me as I sit down and reflect on what has been a very eventful spring for the AEF. The Nominations Committee was busy at work and brought forth a fantastic slate of candidates to join the Board of Directors. We are pleased to welcome new board member, Mazlie Cole, and returning board member, Robert Simpson, to our team. We also want to take this time to thank our out-going directors Dena Squarebriggs, Tara Gamble and Alison Douglas; we are very grateful for all of the ideas and passion that they brought to the AEF and the equine community as a whole. Moving forward, the ongoing work the Board discussed in late March continues as we strive to meet the goals set as per the Strategic Plan.

On March 23rd, it was our ultimate pleasure to welcome over 70 guests to our Annual General Meeting and Stride With Us banquet which took place in Red Deer, AB. The evening was full of wonderful discussions, a delicious dinner and various opportunities for the Board of Directors to have invaluable conversations with members. We were also treated to an informative presentation by Purina on the importance of nutrition. It certainly sparked more than a few conversations at guest tables, and provided valuable takeaway knowledge for folks.

The highlight of the event was the presentation of the 2nd Annual Provincial Awards. With over 50 nominations received, choosing only seven was no easy task for the Awards Committee. Thank you to all who took the time to nominate

such incredible community members, and congratulations again to the winners on their accomplishments for 2018.

Keep dreaming big dreams and striving to make our equine community better.

As we look further into 2019, I would like to reach out to you, our community, as we plan for our crucial fundraising casino on September 10 and 11. This is the largest fundraising opportunity for the AEF and generates capital that assists us to continuously offer support and opportunities to the membership. We invite you to contribute to the success of this year’s casino by joining us as a volunteer. I can say from personal experience that it is a heck of a lot of fun too! If you are interested in joining us, or would like more information, please contact the AEF office at 403-253-4411 or email execdir@albertaequestrian.com.

I hope this early taste of summer treats you all well and that you continue to enjoy the wonderful activities you and your horse are taking part in. You can expect to run into one of our Board Members at events all across the province this summer; we welcome the chance to talk to folks about what makes our AEF community a special one, and about opportunities to grow our one-of-a-kind community.

Until next time, happy trails. AB

Message from Executive Director, Sonia Dantu

The warm spring weather and sunshine provides all equestrians a tantalizing glimpse of what is to come when summer hits. Whether you’re excited about clocking off work early to get out for a leisurely hack, hitting a schooling show, getting a lesson in during daylight hours or exploring a new trail and enjoying the breathtaking and majestic scenery Alberta has to offer, more daylight hours means more time to enjoy horse activities!

Wrapping up 2018, the Annual Report was presented to the membership electronically and at the Annual General Meeting in conjunction with Stride With Us on March 23, 2019. Thank you to those who took the time to attend. The AEF would not exist without our members, and we are truly grateful for your support. If you have not already, we encourage you to view the 2018 Annual Report on the AEF website and see where your membership dollars were hard at work.

Last year was one of improvement, inclusion and welfare initiatives. Fundraising, partnerships and support grew, showing an increase in trust that the community has for the AEF. We believe in giving back to make the equine industry stronger and fostering a unifying community bond, and we have done so through collaboration and leadership to institute the best provincial and national practices.

The AEF continues to be an advocate for recreational equestrians. Consultation and work with LivingstonePorcupine Hills Recreation Advisory Group, K-Country, Bragg Creek Trails Association and others ensures good access and 6

ALBERTA BITS I SUMMER 2019

thoughtful resolutions to various issues regarding multi-user trails in our province. The AEF liaised with the Minister’s Office and senior staff on the Bighorn Proposal to support fact-finding and messaging to AEF Members. We will continue to advocate on behalf of the equestrian community and keep our members informed on what we learn.

We continue to offer more and improved clinics, events and programs in many areas and many disciplines. Of note, the Rookie Riders Program upgrades an older Canadian PTSO program to safely introduce children ages 6-12 years to horses and riding in a fun and confidence-building manner. This program can be delivered to any school, at community centres, summer camps, etc. Watch for Rookie Riders popping up all over our province. As well, more funding continues to be directed towards professional development for athletes, clinics and events for member clubs to host coaches, riders and officials.

Steve Jobs once said, “Great things in business are never done by one person. They’re done by a team of people.” Great things are occurring at the AEF because of the support we receive from all of you in the community. Whether it is through your membership, financial support, volunteering or other means, please know your contribution is making a difference in our community. AB

S ’ D I K CORNER

MAKE A PRETTY PONY NECKLACE

Make a special necklace out of simple objects you might have lying around the house. This pretty pony necklace is perfect for a friend, or simply to show off your equestrian style! Here’s how: Have an adult help you with a glue gun, as they can become very hot! Glue a small loop of string on the back of your horse. Finding the right balance point to creating this loop (which attaches to the neck chain) can be tricky – you want to ensure the horse does not tip forward when the necklace is done.

1

EQUINE FUN FACTS

wer bones rabians have fe A ? ow kn u yo ve id D ds. They only ha ee br r he ot t os than m have 18). ost other horses 17 ribs (while m

Cut your string so it’s long enough to place around your neck. Zip it through the first small loop you created. Tie a knot at the top.

3 Glue your craft flower on the horse’s withers.

You’re done!

2

1

Items you will need: - Horse Figurine - A Craft Flower - Decorative String or Ribbon - Glue Gun 2

CROSSWORD 1. One of the horse’s natural gaits that is faster than the walk and trot but slower than the gallop.

2. What is the piece of tack attached to an English saddle, that is used to secure the saddle on a horse by being fastened around its belly?

3. At what point on the horse’s body is height measured?

4. Who trims a horse’s feet and takes care of its shoes?

5. What should every rider wear on their head when riding?

3 4

5

6

answers on page 13

6. What is the art of riding and training a horse in a manner that develops obedience, flexibility, and balance?

ALBERTA BITS I SUMMER 2019

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IN THE COMMUNITY

HOOVES & HEARTS Spirit Winds Ranch offers horse-powered connections to the people who need them the most.

B Y J E N N W E B ST E R • PH OT O S PR OV I DE D B Y L AU R E L G R I F F I N

Spirit Winds Ranch near Cochrane, AB is a non-riding facility that focuses on connecting people with horses from the ground. They provide individuals the opportunity to relate to equines without ever having to own one. The ranch specializes in Equine Assisted Learning (EAL), which is a hands-on, learning-based approach to explore individual and team growth. Students and horses are taken through a collaborative series of exercises to explore problem-solving. Students often include at-risk youth, or members of corporations looking to strengthen themselves as a team.

The exercises utilized at Spirit Winds are designed to encourage self-confidence and strengthen communication, and as owner Laurel Griffin states, “Our mantra is to create a place of healing that is built on the powerful, spiritual connection between horse and human.”

Originally a Pregnant Mare Urine (PMU) operation in the 1990s with over 250 head of horses, Griffin decided to change her course in 2014.

“There were a number of kids in the Cochrane, AB area in 8

ALBERTA BITS I SUMMER 2019

2014 who committed suicide. It changed the trajectory of my life and my life with horses. I knew what it meant to have a connection with a horse. And I wanted to do something to help my community,” she states.

Around the same time, Griffin also came upon an article that featured the top 10 horse courses to take for connecting horses and humans from the ground.

“At my age, I currently don’t have the same energy for equine competition I once used to. But I was riding before I could walk and then there was my involvement in Pony Club. I had ridden with Debbie Garside and Gail Ross,” Griffin recounts.

“With my background and knowledge, there were so many things I could offer to my community.”

In early 2014, Griffin took a course in Saskatchewan at Cartier Farms, which offered the original creation of an awardwinning, research-based EAL Building Block (™) Certification Program. Having scaled her herd back to three horses in the early 2000s, she went looking for horses that could handle the program.

IN THE COMMUNITY “I knew I needed good-hearted horses,” she relays.

“They needed to be the kind that weren’t going to spook when a kid dropped a coat or hat by accident. So I bought a bunch of older gems and then went to work with them with the Seven Games of Parelli Natural Horsemanship – and trainer, Bruce Koch’s help. He taught us what it really meant to have a connection with a horse. And after a few months of natural horsemanship, the horses were ready for the programming.”

Coincidentally, by November 2014, schools in the Cochrane, AB, area put a call out for EAL services.

“The timing was incredible, so I can’t help but think it was just meant to be,” Griffin says.

Many students have since benefitted from the Spirit Winds Ranch programs. Griffin tells the story of one of the first letters of gratitude she received from the parent of an 11-year-old girl who had been to the ranch.

“This young girl had anxiety so bad she didn’t want to go to school anymore. As a result of taking our courses, her mom told us the young lady’s anxiety dropped down, she was attending school more often and she was doing better in her studies overall!”

“The horses give the kids validation for the choices they make. And if it’s not working, the horse will tell the student with his body language. The horse gives them direct, honest feedback.” ~ Laurel Griffin

Then there is the heart-breaking story of one of the youngest boys to attend Spirit Winds Ranch.

“There was a young fellow who came here last fall,” tells Griffin. “He came in and had cowboy clothes on.

We handed him a horse and he grabbed the lead shank from my hand, like he was an old pro and off he went. His teacher came over to me 20 minutes later and said to me, ‘I can’t believe what I’m seeing.’”

The young boy’s father died by suicide in the previous year. In his father’s memory, the boy wore western clothing every day to school. As a result, he was picked on mercilessly by his peers.

“His teacher told me, ‘All he can do at school is cry.

The kids pick on him so badly because he wants to wear cowboy clothes to remember his dad.’ Within weeks of coming out here and working with our horses, there was a real change in the child,” Griffin states.

“The changes we saw in him at the ranch were confirmed at the school by the principal, teachers and support staff.”

To learn more about the work being done at Spirit Winds Ranch, check out their website at: spiritwindsranch.ca AB

Opposite Page: There are many different modules tackled at Spirit Winds Ranch, for EAL.

“Project Runway” is the final windup, where the kids dress their horses up for graduation.

Top: Laurel Griffin in the middle of a teaching session at Spirit Winds Ranch.

Bottom: Laurel Griffin and one of the lesson horses at Spirit Winds Ranch ALBERTA BITS I SUMMER 2019

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BITS & PIECES

Lacey Jacobson and Vanity Flair won Outstanding Athlete/Rider of the Year.

Congratulations to our 2018 Provincial Award Recipients!

It was our immense pleasure to recognize seven 2018 Provincial Award Winners at our Stride With Us banquet on March 23, 2019.

This year, over 50 nominations were submitted, giving the AEF Awards Committee the difficult task to choose just seven and determine which candidates were most deserving. All nominations are made by peers in the community.

Lisa Mackay

Outstanding Instructor / Coach of the Year

Keira Forsyth

Sportsmanship Excellence Award

Lacey Jacobsen

Outstanding Athlete / Rider of the Year

Kathleen Ziegler

Outstanding Volunteer of the Year

Chris Richter Outstanding Equine Support Personnel of the Year

Moose Hill Ranch

Outstanding Stable / Facility of the Year

Kellie Leyen Above and Beyond Excellence Award

The AEF is pleased to offer Annual Provincial Awards recognizing deserving members in the Alberta equine community.

Thank you to everyone who took the time to nominate deserving Alberta equine enthusiasts, and to Greenhawk Grande Prairie, the proud sponsor of the AEF Provincial Awards.

BURSARY AWARD RECIPIENT

Charlene Baker Western Rider Bursary JESSICA TYRRELL, Strathmore AB

Jessica Tyrrell has been an Albertan for 25 years, and a member of AEF for nearly 20. Although a passionate horse woman now, it was the ice, not the barn that she used to call home. As a child, Jessica was a figure skater, but a car accident at the age of 13 left her unable to skate.

Jessica believes that “all things happen for a reason.” In order to rebuild both her physical and mental strength, she was given a myriad of low impact sports to choose from. She chose riding. It was the beginning of a passion that would dictate the course of the rest of her life.

Although she participated in numerous equestrian disciplines, she found she had a love for the western programs. She has now achieved her Western Rider Level 4 and her NCCP Western 10

ALBERTA BITS I SUMMER 2019

Jessica Tyrrell is the winner of the Charlene Baker Western Rider Bursary.

BITS & PIECES Coach Certification, and is the owner and head coach/trainer at Tyrrell Riding Academy. Coaching both young and old alike, Jessica helps them meet their goals with their horses while promoting a healthy, enriching lifestyle.

“My greatest pleasure comes from coaching individuals to help meet their goals, be it to learn to overcome fears or compete in local competitions, and even national venues,” Jessica explains.

She finds that the Learn to Ride program provides a sound foundation when coaching, especially when it comes to safety.

Having gone through the levels herself, she knows first-hand the impact that it can have.

“The Western Learn to Ride Program has helped give me the confidence to go further and obtain my NCCP Western Coach Certification. I am not only coaching students through the four levels, but also [currently] mentoring a student to become a coach and my daughter to become an assistant coach,” Jessica explains.

PUMP UP YOUR LEVELS RECIPIENT WINNERS

she wants to be a coach that “knows her limits,” even if that means being a mere “stepping stone” as they work towards their dreams.

Currently, it is Quindy’s goal to expand Foxtail Woods Ltd. to include an indoor arena so she is able to create a place where she can continue to have her students develop their skills all year around.

Sandridge Stables is the 2019 Pump Up Your Levels Facility Recipient.

Facility

SANDRIDGE STABLES, Sherwood Park AB

Quindy Watts is the 2019 Instructor / Coach Pump Up Your Levels Recipient.

Instructor / Coach QUINDY WATTS, Wainwright AB

NCCP Certified Coach, Quindy started working in the equine industry 30 years ago, at the early age of 12, mucking stalls for a dressage coach in Ontario. Since then, she has embraced many opportunities to work, ride and train with some of the best professionals in the industry, in English, western and driving disciplines. She explains that her experience has given her “a real feel for what I feel true horsemanship is.”

“My goal with every horse is to have them come to the gate because they want to spend time with me, and they love their job,” Quindy explains.

Quindy and her husband now own and run Foxtail Woods Ltd. in Wainwright, AB, where she coaches hunter/jumpers.

“I love to help people develop their horses, giving them the understanding of how basic horsemanship can get them where they want to go,” she says.

Following the national Learn to Ride Program, Quindy always strives to put her students’ goals first, and explains that

Established in 1989 in Rocky Mountain House, but moving to Sherwood Park in 2006, Sandridge Stables offers programming to all levels with a focus on eventing, to include hunter/ jumper and dressage disciplines.

The facility features a 20-stall heated barn, an 80ft x 160ft indoor arena and a 100ft x 200ft outdoor arena, as well as a cross country course on site. The facility is owned and run by former Team Canada rider and current Certified High Performance Coach, Tricia Dahms. She thanks her experience on Team Canada for enabling her to understand how to help others achieve their own equestrian dreams.

As a coach, Tricia follows the Equestrian Canada Learn to Ride Program, explaining that it “not only provides motivation to help riders set goals to improve skills, but is a great way to validate achievements.”

“Riding goals can seem almost insurmountable to students at times but the beautiful thing about the rider levels is that it helps everyone to make positive progress and be recognized for their accomplishments!” she explains.

Sandridge also actively encourages all of their instructors to become certified. They host an instructors’ clinic every fall to help prepare potential instructors and coaches for success in their coaching evaluations. Tricia explains that because their instructors are all working on the certification process, they are better prepared to help develop students through the Learn to Ride Program.

“I would like to see all teachers of the equestrian arts use the coaching certification process to refine and recognize their skills which in turn enables growth of the student and improves the strength and quality of our competitive rider base as a whole,” says Tricia. AB ALBERTA BITS I SUMMER 2019

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BITS & PIECES

Belinda Trussell aboard Anton at Rio, Tattoo at WEG and her current partner, Carlucci. Photos by CealyTetley.com

GAIT TO SUCCESS CLINIC PREVIEW We are extremely excited to announce that our 2019 Gait To Success Dressage Clinic will take place on October 19 and 20, 2019 at Horse In Hand Ranch in Blackfalds, AB. As the government recognized provincial sport organization for equestrians, we pride ourselves in being the premier resource for education, information, and support for the entire Alberta equine community. One of the many benefits that we offer to our community is affordable opportunities to learn from world-class equestrians in various disciplines.

Gait To Success is one of those opportunities that has been incredibly well-received by the community. With an annual event consisting of both a

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ALBERTA BITS I SUMMER 2019

jump and dressage clinic, the goal is to help foster growth of our grassroots athletes and coaches. We have made the commitment each year to secure a high-level clinician in both of these disciplines, and we are incredibly excited to announce that our highly esteemed dressage clinician for this year will be Belinda Trussell!

One of the dressage world’s shining stars, Belinda has represented Canada at two Olympic Games, the World Cup, four World Equestrian Games, and the European Championships.

She was a member of the Silver Medal winning team at the 2015 Pan American Games.

An elite rider in every sense of the word, Belinda has a sixth sense for

competition riding that allows her not only to excel with her own horses, but to share her wisdom and competition strategies to guide her students to success after success in the show ring.

Equestrian Canada honoured Belinda as Canadian Dressage Athlete of the Year for 2016.

We are very fortunate to have Belinda join us this year. Stay tuned for registration details, and of course, the much-anticipated release of this year’s jump clinician!

Clinics and educational events are only a few of the many benefits we offer our membership. To learn more about the many opportunities available to the AEF community, visit albertaequestrian.com. AB

BITS & PIECES

Pat Hyndman Photos.

TRAIL FEATURE Cox Hill Ridge (Kananaskis, Alberta)

Discovering all the outdoor trail riding splendour our province has to offer.

Located east of Canmore, AB, starting at the Dawson Equestrian Campground in Dawson Provincial Recreation Area, this route is the perfect choice if you are seeking a good climb and picturesque 360-degree views of K Country. The trail leads east from the campground, shared with the Tom Snow Trail. After less than 1 km, Cox Hill Trail splits off to the right.

It climbs up steadily through forest with views to the north and east, then breaks out into alpine meadows with rock outcrops and stunning views that our beautiful province is famous for.

Difficulty: MODERATE Trail Type: OUT-AND-BACK Trail Length: 18 KM Elevation Gain: 872 m/2,834 ft

KIDS CORNER ANSWERS:

Location: The trail head is situated at the east side of the campground which is located 30 km east of Canmore on Highway 1, 7 km south on Highway 40, 11 km east on Highway 68 and 2 km south on Powderface Trail.

Other considerations: The route includes a pretty steep climb, so it is recommended that your mount is fit and in good condition. Shoes or boots are recommended for your horse, as well as a saddle with a breast collar.

When you’re coming back down, be sure to tighten your cinch! Be aware that this trail is shared with bikers and hikers – be courteous!

Campground Information: The Dawson Equestrian Campground is open year-round, and can accommodate both RVs and tents.

Hitching posts, loading ramps and washrooms are also available, as well as a water pump; however, it is

recommended that you bring your own drinking water!

For more information on this route, and other beautiful Alberta trails visit albertaparks.ca.

What are your favorite trails? Let us know! AB

CROSSWORD PUZZLE ANSWERS FROM PAGE 7:

1. CANTER 2. GIRTH 3. WITHERS 4. FARRIER 5. HELMET 6. DRESSAGE ALBERTA BITS I SUMMER 2019

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CAMPING ADVENTURES

earn your badges

CAMPING WITH HORSES Things to bring with you on an overnight trail ride, to keep you and your horses safe and comfortable.

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

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ALBERTA BITS I SUMMER 2019

RESEARCH YOUR

DESTINATION Tania Millen

Overnight camping with your horse might be one of the most cherished memories you can create for the summer. Whether you stay in a camper or a tent, there are several things to pack and consider before heading out.

Ensuring both you and your horse are prepared before heading down the road is also an important part of camping with horses. If you have plans to head out this season, here are a few tips we can offer to help you stay safe in your experience.

Finding a campsite that accepts horses is something you’ll want to research before you arrive. Many campsites don’t allow horses and neither do the trails that surround them. Be sure to fully research your destination before you get there. Find out what types of horse containment the site offers – will you have to highline your horse overnight and if so, can he handle that? Some campsites might also have parking and feed restrictions.

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You never know what the weather may be like on your camping adventure and food can spoil easily in hot weather. Bring a cooler if you aren’t utilizing a fridge in a camper and eat up more perishable foods first. Do the bulk of your food prep at home; plan some meals that can be cooked over a fire and plan for some foods that can easily be grabbed and consumed. Be sure to bring all the cooking equipment you might require!

PLAN YOUR MEALS

RE PREPA

If a trail ride goes sideways, you’ll appreciate having some emergency gear in your saddle bags. Create a safety kit in a tough-sided, waterproof bag, which includes:

YOUR HORSE ’S

FOR YOU:

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• Fix-it kit containing a multi-tool, cord, binder twine, duct tape and zip ties • First-aid kit • Communication device and charger • Compass and flagging tape (to re-find a trail) • GPS and map • Fire starter kit in a Ziplock bag (fire starter sticks, candle and lighter) • Head lamp • Blanket • Food bar • Toilet paper • Sunscreen • Optional extras include spare gloves, binoculars and bear spray *Carry a knife and a lighter on your person at all times.

WHATrider TO PACK

Prepare your horse for a variety of terrain they might encounter while out on the trails. This may include rocky and hilly trails, bridge crossings, water crossings, and areas that become slick when wet. Many accomplished trail riders prefer to shoe their horses in the front, but not in the hind. Barefoot horses that are wellconditioned to hard ground and rocky terrain should be fine, however you might want to bring a spare set of hoof boots for your horses in the event of a foot or hoof injury.

WHAT TO PACK

WHAT TO PACK horses

FOOD. Some campsites might have restrictions on what you can bring for hay or bedding from outside areas.

In that case, you might use cubes or certified weed-free hay.

WATER. Bring a fair amount of potable water with you, even if there’s water available at the campsite. You never know if the water is turned off or unavailable when you arrive.

BUG SPRAY. (for you and your horse) HALTER AND LEAD SHANK. ALBERTA BITS I SUMMER 2019

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HORSEKEEPING

VACCINE DELIBERATIONS Immunization practices don’t come with a “one size fits all policy.”

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

The basics of horse husbandry regarding the prevention of infectious diseases are simple: vaccinations. However, understanding what your horse requires, at what time of the year and what is relevant for where you live, is anything but straightforward. Setting up vaccination protocols tailored to your specific needs is done by determining the risks for your horse and designing a timeline for specific ages and groups of horses in your herd. Discussion with your veterinarian is key as the list of vaccines available for horses is lengthy – and they don’t come with a “one size fits all” policy.

Here are several considerations to take into account when you are devising your vaccination protocols this year.

There is No Standard Protocol

Factors to consider when choosing your vaccinations include:

Location – First and foremost.

What diseases are prevalent in your area? Some diseases occur

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more frequently in specific areas of the globe. For instance, equine protozoal myeloencephalitis (EPM) is found throughout North, Central and South America, but the risk is higher for horse herds in regions where opossum populations exist. Know what the dangers are for your location.

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Contact With Other Horses

– What you do with your horse(s) determines a lot about your specific vaccination requirements.

Due to the amount of traveling and contact a competition horse will have with other animals, show horses are at higher risk for infections. Broodmares and foals too, have different program and schedule requirements.

– As mentioned above, more frequent contact with other horses puts your horse at a higher risk. However, even if you don’t own a competition horse, if the stable you board at has

a higher rate of traffic, or if broodmares are constantly shipped in for breeding, your horse could easily be at the same risk as a show horse.

Remember, there are fewer geographic boundaries now due to the large number of horses being moved great distances. It is highly recommended that you contact your veterinarian and inform him or her of your horse or herd’s specific use, exposure and animal type (for instance, young stock, performance horses, etc.)

Your vet will be able to tailor a program specific to your animals’ needs. Higherrisk horses may require more frequent boosters and age, use and the prevalence of disease in your area should always be considered when establishing a protocol.

Preventing disease through appropriate vaccine schedules is safer, easier and more cost effective than dealing with a horse that is already ill. Vaccines are also less time consuming and help prevent mass outbreak of disease.

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HORSEKEEPING

Take Home Message

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some other way should be disposed of properly. Utilizing products after they have been mishandled – affecting the vaccine’s potency, safety or efficacy – can cause local reactions, infections or abscesses at the injection site.

Also ensure vaccines are administered properly and via the intended route, either through intramuscular, intranasal injection, etc. The injection site should be clean and care should be taken not to vaccinate ill or stressed horses, as their immune systems may be compromised during these times.

It should go without saying that each individual animal will require its own new, sterile needle for each vaccine, and by reducing the number of vaccines to one injection per site, you will reduce possible reactions or adverse effects.

Keep a watchful eye out for post-vaccination reactions such as lethargy, lowgrade fevers, mild swelling or tenderness at the injection site or a horse that breaks out in hives or displays any other symptoms of a mild allergic reaction.

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If you’re one of those proactive horse owners, it’s likely you have a fridge just for equine medications and vaccines.

Proper storage and care of your vaccines makes economic sense and is crucial to the overall health of your herd. Vaccines must be maintained at appropriate temperatures from the time they leave the manufacturer until the point of administration. If this means your vaccines need to be refrigerated, keep in the middle of the fridge and not at the back or in the door. This will help to ensure they stay at the ideal temperature and they don’t freeze, should your refrigerator have a few areas that are frostier than others.

You can also be certain your vaccines stay at the right temperature by utilizing a thermometer near the vaccines. Set the containers with the shortest expiration date towards the front, so they can be seen at a glance. Expired vaccines may do more harm to your horse than good, and they do little for maximizing your pocketbook. In the event of power failure, remove vaccines and medications immediately and relocate to another refrigerating source. And always keep vaccines and medicines in the fridge out of reach of young children.

Storage and handling of vaccines is often product-specific, so be sure to read the directions for use label thoroughly. Note the storage temperature required, exposure to light cautions and instructions regarding shaking of the product to ensure uniform vaccine suspension. Any products that have been left in warm cars or not stored at appropriate temperatures, or contaminated in

Client: Boehringer Ingelheim | Contact: Nathalie Fortier (1-819-823-0850) | Insertion: May/June 2019 | Publication: Western Horse Review

Vaccine Storage & Safety

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“O N LY Y O U CAN PROTECT THEM.” Every year in Canada, horses suffer needlessly or die from preventable diseases.

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Consult your veterinarian for more information on vaccine options, as well as tailoring your vaccination program to meet your horse’s needs. AB CMY

Did you know?

Equine Influenza can spread rapidly through groups of horses in close contact.

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Opposite page: Equine vaccines are administered by intramuscular injection (usually in the neck muscles) and some vaccines can be administered intranasally (into the nose).

Always ensure vaccines are administered properly and via the intended route. Below: Geographic locations play a role in your horse’s vaccination requirements. Be sure to speak with your vet to find out what the most important considerations are.

VETERA® is a registered trademark of Boehringer Ingelheim, used under license. © 2019 Boehringer Ingelheim (Canada) Ltd. All rights reserved.

ALBERTA BITS I SUMMER 2019

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HORSEKEEPING

HEAT STRESS How to alleviate risk when it’s hot out.

B Y A L E E S HA HA R R I S

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For horse owners, the best way to avoid heat stress is to monitor key behavioural signs during hot, humid days in order to recognize abnormalities early on.

Photo: Aleesha Harris ALBERTA BITS I SUMMER 2019

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HORSEKEEPING

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seconds; an increased temperature rising above 40 C (104 F); rapid breathing of 30 to 60 breaths per minute (compared to a normal rate of eight to 16 breaths per minute); an increased heart rate of 60 to 80 beats per minute (compared to a normal 28 to 40 beats per minute); and weakness or stumbling. In severe cases, convulsions, seizures and complete unresponsiveness have been reported.

“Heat stress can range from mild to severe, to life threatening and death.

Some complications can include muscle and organ damage,” Dr. Graham cautions.

To put it plainly, a body temperature that’s above 38.5 C (101.3 F) is considered abnormal and needs attention. While it’s fairly common for a horse’s temperature to edge above this during strenuous exercise, especially on a hot or humid day, most animals are typically able to recover fairly quickly, provided they are cooled out properly and given access to adequate shade and air circulation.

“The temperature should return to normal over a short period of time,” Dr. Graham says. “If the temperature is persistently high, this is an issue or there are other clinical signs of heat stress.”

As the summer show season nears, the risk of heat stress becomes especially important to consider as many equestrians will spend a lot more time on the road with their equine companions loaded in the trailer. To avoid heat stressinducing situations while on the road, Dr. Graham suggests stopping frequently to offer fresh water to the horse(s); avoid over-blanketing; keep trailer roof vents and window screens open for better air circulation; and restrict travel to the cooler times of day whenever possible.

“I think, in general, people just need to be aware of the risks and use common sense and this includes thinking when keeping horses tied to trailers or in the trailer,” Dr. Graham says.

Undoubtedly, the best way to beat heat stress is to avoid it in the first place, and in order to do this, it’s important to exercise extra caution when it’s hot.

To avoid heat stress during training or showing, it is beneficial to restrict strenuous workouts in extremely hot or humid temperatures – especially if the horse isn’t accustomed to such extremes or is not in good physical shape. According Client: Boehringer Ingelheim | Contact: Nathalie Fortier (1-819-823-0850) | Insertion: May/June 2019 | Publication: Western Horse Review

The sun’s out, the weather is warm and it feels like the perfect day to go for a ride, but is your horse ready to handle the heat?

During the summer months, when the temperatures rise up beyond 24 degrees Celsius (75.5 degrees Fahrenheit), horses become more susceptible to the heat.

Whether a fit performance horse or a sedentary paddock pet, all horses can be negatively impacted by hot, humid weather without proper precautions put in place. Regardless of the age, breed or physical condition of an animal, extreme variations in temperature can increase the risk of a condition called heat stress.

“Heat stress is essentially when the body cannot cool itself to normal body temperatures,” Dr. Emily Graham, a veterinarian at Westhills Equine Veterinary Services in Stony Plain, Alberta, explains.

Normal body temperature for horses generally ranges from 37.7 to 38.5 C (99.86 - 103.3 F), though some horses can also have a normal internal temperature that hovers in the high 36s to low 37s (96.8 - 98.6 F). In order to prevent overheating, a horse’s body is designed to regulate its own internal temperature under typical conditions.

“Horses naturally regulate their body temperature through moving heat through muscles and out into the skin.

Blood flow also removes heat when it circulates through the body and releases heat into different areas, organs and vessels,” Dr. Graham explains.

The heat moving throughout the horses’ body into the skin is released through sweat, which also works to cool the surface of the skin as the sweat evaporates. However, when a horse is experiencing heat stress, the animal becomes physically unable to regulate its temperature through its natural physiologic responses.

For horse owners, the best way to avoid heat stress is to monitor key behavioural signs during hot, humid days in order to recognize abnormalities early on.

When it comes to recognizing common signs and symptoms of heat stress, according to Dr. Graham, it is important to take note of changes in an animal’s mood; signs of depression; dehydration and skin tenting that lasts more than two

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MOSQUITOES BITE! Mosquitoes can carry potentially fatal diseases like Eastern Equine Encephalomyelitis (EEE), Western Equine Encephalomyelitis (WEE), and West Nile Virus (WNV). Once transmitted, these conditions can progress rapidly from a mild fever to paralysis or even death.

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WNV is on the rise in Canada.

Reported horse cases doubled in 2018, with cases reported across the country.*

*CFIA reported cases to Dec 15, 2018, compared to 2017.

VETERA® is a registered trademark of Boehringer Ingelheim, used under license. © 2019 Boehringer Ingelheim (Canada) Ltd. All rights reserved.

ALBERTA BITS I SUMMER 2019

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HORSEKEEPING

to Dr. Graham, the duration and intensity of an animal’s exercise should be carefully considered based on its overall fitness and conditioning. Issues such as obesity and a long hair coat can exacerbate the onset of heat stress. Don’t ride or train longer than is necessary, and whenever possible, keep your riding restricted to cooler times of day such as the early morning and later at night. It is also important to ensure the horse is given a full, proper cool down following exercise.

Making sure the horse has access to clean, fresh water at all times is also key. It will help it stay hydrated, while also enabling it to properly sweat and regulate its own body temperature during and after exercise without electrolyte levels becoming imbalanced. Adding electrolytes to a horse’s water prior to and during exposure to extreme temperatures and trailering also helps with balance and hydration.

“Make sure you also have a source without electrolytes as some horses are 20

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HORSEKEEPING

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the animal will prompt the overall body temperature to come back down to normal. While doing this, monitor the animal’s heart rate, temperature and overall behaviour. After inspecting the animal, a veterinarian may suggest intravenous electrolytes be administered in order to rebalance the animal’s overall electrolyte levels.

Having fun in the sun with your horses is entirely possible without fear of encountering heat stress. Owners simply need to be aware of the limitations caused by extreme environments and adjust their care and exercise accordingly. AB Client: Boehringer Ingelheim | Contact: Nathalie Fortier (1-819-823-0850) | Insertion: May/June 2019 | Publication: Western Horse Review

picky and will not drink the water with electrolytes in it at first,” Dr. Graham advises.

If you suspect your horse is suffering from heat stress, whether in the trailer or under saddle, call your vet immediately.

Don’t rush to give the horse water, Dr. Graham cautions, as it’s important to rehydrate the animal in small amounts at a time. Instead, remove all tack or blankets and put the horse in a shady, well-ventilated spot. Use cool water to hose down its legs and body; scrape off the excess water and repeat the process.

Continually running cool water over

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WHY RISK IT? DON’T WAIT, V A C C I N AT E .

Vaccination is the cornerstone of a comprehensive healthcare program for every horse—a single vaccine can offer much-needed protection.

Talk to your veterinarian to build a vaccination plan for your horse.

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Opposite page top: Having fun in the sun with your horses is possible without fear of encountering heat stress. Just be aware of the limitations caused by extreme environments and adjust care and exercise accordingly. Opposite page bottom: Heat stress is essentially when the body cannot cool itself to normal body temperatures. Twisted Tree Photography Above: Just like humans, horses cool off by sweating and therefore, in hot and humid weather, they must consume more water.

LEARN MORE ABOUT VACCINATION AT

bicanadaequine.ca

VETERA® is a registered trademark of Boehringer Ingelheim, used under license. © 2019 Boehringer Ingelheim (Canada) Ltd. All rights reserved.

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BREED PROFILE

THE PERCHERON Harnessing a historic power.

B Y PI PE R W H E L A N

There was a time when the proud, capable Percheron was found everywhere, from small farms to busy city streets. Ideal for agricultural work and freighting, the Percheron was one of the most popular draft horse breeds until an increasingly mechanized world threatened their future. Today, breeders and enthusiasts love the Percheron for all the traits that made it a vital part of society in the 19th and early 20th centuries.

On average, Percherons stand between 16 to 17 hands high, though some will reach 19 hands, and they usually weigh around 1,900 to 2,100 pounds. Most Percherons are black or gray, though other colours may occur, and while too much white is considered undesirable for the breed, many have white markings on their head and legs.

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BREED PROFILE

Percherons can still be found performing agricultural tasks as they would have a century ago, like this team mowing hay at the Bar U Ranch National Historic Site in 2018.

Photo: Parks Canada

With a large eye, strong jaw and straight face, the Percheron is a striking animal. The ideal Percheron is wellmuscled through the body, with a long neck and clean head. According to the Percheron Horse Association of America, the breed is known for “an aspect of unusual ruggedness and power.” As a draft horse, “ease and balance of gait is essential.”

The breed is also known for its calm demeanor, vitality and intelligence.

Both its adaptability and willingness to work illustrate why the Percheron played such a major role in the past. In addition to being adaptable to varying conditions, the breed is very versatile, from shining in the show ring to pulling heavy loads and tackling tasks such as plowing and hauling timber.

The breed originated in the French province of Le Perche, in the northwestern part of the country, near Normandy. Its history isn’t entirely known, though it is thought that Percherons likely derive from “the Flemish ‘great horse’ of the Middle Ages,” as stated in Encyclopedia Britannica. Many believe that Arabian horse bloodlines were used to develop the Percheron. The ancestors of today’s Percherons earned their keep as war horses, requiring agility and great courage to carry their riders into battle.

While there were few breeding records kept, making it difficult to truly understand how the breed originated, it is known that over time, the breeding of Percherons became increasingly focused on producing horses of greater size and strength. This allowed the breed to excel in agricultural work and as a coach horse. These horses were in great demand by the 17th century, with their admirable features earning the breed fame across France.

The development of the Percheron was furthered in the early 19th century when the French government opened a stud farm specifically to breed army horses at Le Perche. The stallion, Jean La Blanc, was foaled there in 1823, going on to greatly impact the breed. In fact, all modern Percheron bloodlines trace back to this stallion.

The first Percherons were imported into the United States in 1839. Though ALBERTA BITS I SUMMER 2019

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BREED PROFILE

Of the many Bar U Percherons to capture prestigious titles, Halifax, pictured with head horseman Fred Andrews in 1916, took one of the highest honours as the World Champion Percheron Stallion. Photo credit: Parks Canada

Edward Harris of New Jersey tried twice to bring a total of eight horses over, only two survived the trip from France. The mare, Joan, and the stallion, Diligence, laid the foundation for the Percheron breed in the U.S., as Diligence is said to have sired more than 400 foals.

It wasn’t until the next recorded importation of Percherons to the U.S. in 1851 that the breed began to take off in North America. That year, three stallions arrived, one of which, Louis Napoleon, played a major role in building the breed in the United States. In the second half of the 19th century, thousands of Percherons were brought across the Atlantic, becoming popular in both the agriculture and freighting industries.

The Norman-Percheron Association was established in 1876, along with the creation of the first American stud book.

This evolved into the Percheron Horse Society of America in 1905, and in 1934, the Percheron Horse Association of America was created, which operates to this day. At one time, this association was the biggest draft horse association in the world, registering upwards of 10,000 head each year. Today, around 2,500 horses are registered each year.

Percherons were imported to North America until the Second World War, 24

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and afterwards, the modernization of farm machinery radically changed the role of draft horses in general.

With agriculture and transportation becoming more mechanized, the future was uncertain for the Percheron throughout the 1950s and ‘60s.

Some farmers, however, wanted to ensure the breed lived on, and draft horses experienced something of a comeback in the late 1960s. While not used in agriculture to the extent of the past, there are still farms in Canada and the U.S. that rely on the Percheron in the fields. The breed is also used for pulling wagons and sleighs, and Percheron breeders are known to bring their best stock to fairs and exhibitions for halter and hitch competitions.

From Grand Ranches to the Show Ring

The history of the Percheron in Alberta can’t be told without recognizing the role of the Bar U Ranch herd. Established in 1882 and first known as the Northwest Cattle Company, the Bar U Ranch in Pekisko, Alberta, was one of the first large-scale beef operations in southern Alberta, and arguably the most famous. Its legacy continues, as the ranch is now the only National Historic Site run by

Parks Canada that celebrates Canada’s ranching heritage.

In its prime, the Bar U ran 30,000 head of cattle on its vast holdings in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains.

Foreman-turned-owner George Lane guided the ranch to “international repute as a centre of breeding excellence for cattle and purebred Percheron horses,” according to Parks Canada.

After the devastating winter of 1906-07 and the rush of homesteaders changed the northern range forever, Lane saw the need to diversify the Bar U’s operations. Raising draft horses, which were in demand due to the increase in homesteaders, made sense, and Lane started a herd of Percheron breeding stock that would become world famous.

Lane travelled to France to purchase the foundation of his purebred Percheron herd, and until the First World War, the Bar U had the largest herd, not only in Canada, but the entire world. The Bar U Percherons took top honours at the 1909 World’s Fair in Seattle and at numerous exhibitions across North America. Their influence was felt on Western Canadian farms and in cities across the continent, playing a major role in agriculture, construction and transportation.

BREED PROFILE

By diversifying the Bar U Ranch’s operations, well-known rancher George Lane established a prominent Percheron herd and supplied these horses to farmers and ranchers across Western Canada. Photo credit: Parks Canada

Today, the Percheron breed is represented on a national scale by the Canadian Percheron Association, which was established and incorporated in 1907. In 2018, the Association had 403 members, 60 of which were based in Alberta. Of the 386 purebred registrations in 2018, 16 percent came from Alberta.

As of the end of 2018, 30,646 stallions and 45,330 mares were registered with the Association.

Within the province, the breed is promoted by the Alberta Percheron Club. Established in the 1920s, the club recognizes the achievements of Percheron breeders in Alberta with its annual Premier Breeder and Exhibitor awards. These awards are based on points accumulated at four exhibitions: the Calgary Stampede Heavy Horse Show, which is the oldest draft horse show in North America and predates the Stampede itself, Lloydminster’s Colonial Days Fair, the Vermillion Fair and the Alberta Percheron Club Foal Show, held each September in Ponoka. The club also publishes an annual member directory and awards a youth scholarship.

Percheron breeders and exhibitors in Alberta are also active in regional draft horse organizations, one of which is the Peace Draft Horse Club. Based out of

A Percheron team mows wild hay on the Bar U Ranch around 1909. Photo credit: Parks Canada

Grande Prairie, this club set up shop in 1980 to “maintain the history and culture of the draft horse, and celebrate the draft horse’s contribution to the settlement of the west,” according to the club’s website.

Today, more than 70 families make up its membership, taking part in several events throughout the year. The club also takes bookings for draft horse appearances in parades and other special events.

AEF Club member, the Wild Rose Draft Horse Association (WRDHA) was established in 1994 in order to strengthen the presence of draft horse breeders and enthusiasts across Alberta. It hosts an annual futurity and is involved in various 4-H and youth clinics. Celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, the Association will hold its annual sale in early May. Percheron breeder and WRDHA member David Bailey of Madden, AB, has long been an enthusiastic supporter of the breed. Bailey gained his appreciation for draft horses from his father, who gave him his start with the Percheron breed.

“My father bought me a Percheron filly from Roger Bolduc when I was 13 years old,” said Bailey. “My dad preferred Belgians, so a few weeks later we went back and bought a Belgian colt and we

raised them together. He taught me a lot about raising and training horses as he had worked with horses most of his life.

“Then in 1984 I bought my first registered Percheron filly, Wold’s Fancy Clipperette, from Norman Wold, Spruceview, AB,” he continued. This started a journey that has lasted more than 35 years, as he has raised and exhibited registered Percherons since then.

Bailey has worked with trainers Brian and Colleen Coleman for two decades.

“They are truly professional trainers who have done a superb job in fitting and showing our horses to go on to win many championships,” he said. Bailey’s 2017 home-raised filly, Paramount Sass Jordan, captured the Supreme Champion Percheron title at the 2018 Calgary Stampede Heavy Horse Show, and Bailey explained that she best illustrates the type of horse they aim to breed and select.

“I find these horses to be intelligent, talented and exhibit a lot of spirit in their graceful action,” said Bailey. “Watching them run across the pasture or pulling a show wagon, they are impressive!

We have been fortunate to have raised or purchased some really high-quality horses that have been a lot of fun to develop and exhibit.” AB ALBERTA BITS I SUMMER 2019

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TRAINER’S CORNER

Dirk Stroda, of Kelowna, BC, is the High Performance Mental Coach for top athletes and corporate leaders of multi-million dollar companies. Stroda has also conveyed his expertise as the Team Mental Performance Coach to Equestrian Canada at the World Equestrian Games, PanAm Games and the Olympics. He works with Olympic Champions, World Champions and Canada’s top corporate performers and public figures. Here are a few tips that Stroda can offer you for improving your mental performance game.

MENTAL COMPETITION with Dirk Stroda B Y J E N N W E B ST E R

Modern science has allowed us to understand the invisible magnetic forces that affect virtually every circuit in biological systems. Studies have revealed that biologically relevant information is encoded in the time interval between hormonal pulses. This hormonal pulse correlates with heart rhythm.

Heart rate variability (HRV) is a measure of the naturally occurring beat-to-beat changes in heart rate that has proven to be invaluable in studying the physiology of emotions. Negative 26

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emotions such as anger, frustration or anxiety shows an erratic and disordered HRV graph, indicating less synchronization between the parasympathetic and sympathetic branches of the autonomic nervous system (ANS). Conversely, positive emotions such as appreciation, love or compassion are associated with highly ordered or coherent patterns in the heart rhythms, reflecting synchronization between the two branches of the ANS.

TRAINER’S CORNER Stroda states that further insight into the dynamics of non-physical interactions among humans and humans with animals must be conducted and explored.

“I believe that the electric and magnetic energy generated by the heart plays a highly important role in the rider’s mental high performance state, that which should be non-mental, and immediately affects the relationship between the rider and his/ her equine partner,” Stroda says.

“This ‘oneness’ helps to synchronize the HRV from human to animal. This state, known as being ‘in the zone,’ can be trained to a level of perfection and high level of resiliency.”

STEPS TO SUCCESS

Believe it or not, being successful in business and sport can be learned. Many riders have gravitated to Stroda for this reason. Stroda teaches the complex strategies of success in a seven-step process that helps riders self-direct their focus with a road map to create the goals for which they have always wished. Here are a few pieces of his best advice.

1. A Legacy Statement is the first requirement. All winners have a legacy statement. Most people write it at the end of their career. A biography for instance – it’s nice, but it comes at the end of one’s career. You should write a legacy statement at the beginning. It’s a road map towards success. If not, you’re lost.

2. You must have a clear Vision of what you want. Olympic riders must have a clear vision as it is vital in their preparation for championship events. You cannot be wishy-washy – that’s what most athletes and people struggle with. They have good intentions but end up nowhere.

of people on their team for support. What is not allowed at the support group level is drama. But you also need a mentor. A mentor can bring you to a new level.

6. The next thing you need is a Breakthrough Moment. When an airplane takes off it must give it it’s all, or it’s nothing. The airline company must have a clear vision. Their pilots must be healthy.

The crew must be able to handle stressful situations. They must have the resources necessary to reach their destination – because If they only have the fuel to reach Iceland, they’re in trouble. But they do. So they take off. Then they push 100%. The airplane only has one attempt to take off.

When they get through the clouds – they have their breakthrough moment.

7. The Goal. You go from NO WHERE, to NOW HERE! It feels good. It’s a present moment. It doesn’t matter what happened yesterday. It also takes away from experience today if you think about tomorrow.

8. The first five steps are an integrity filter.

If you follow the seven steps, you will find fulfillment.

9. The mind is contaminated by emotions, paranoias, fear, regrets, guilt, worry, anxiety, poverty, old age, all of it. Here’s the answer. Love and the connection with your heart. We have to understand that the heart is not just a pump.

Learn more about Dirk Stroda and his mental performance coaching methods at: www.dirkstroda.com AB

3. If you do not have Physical Health, how are you going to do this? Equestrian Canada is now assessing athletes and giving them individual training plans that are helping them. “If you don’t have the stamina, don’t run for presidency.”

4. Mental Health – what kind of attitude do I have? Desire?

5. Resources, Assets & Team – because you only have one shot. The higher you go, the more important it is to have a superb team. Athletes must have a circle

Opposite page: With balance, focus and a plan, you can write your own road map to equestrian success.

Above: Dirk Stroda’s clients are among the best in the

world; he helped international and pro athletes and national teams towards 13 Olympic Summer and Winter Games, many World Championships and PanAm Games and countless World Cups and National Championships.

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ASK ABOUT INSURANCE

IT’S WORTH IT

An AEF membership is a good investment as part of your risk management plan. You already know there is value in membership. The AEF works tirelessly to provide support and opportunities for you, the membership, as well as advocate on your behalf to create a strong and safe community for all.

Every voice is heard – loud and clear – and is highly valued.

Our role as insurance provider and risk management partner is to support the work of the AEF, and to be a resource for the membership on insurance and risk management topics; subject matter that is quite often misunderstood.

This article is intended to help you understand the very real benefit of just two of the optional insurance “products” available to members of the AEF.

Emergency Life Saving Surgery (ELSS) ELSS is an OPTIONAL extension of the above policy, covering expenses incurred if the insured horse is faced with a life threatening injury or sickness that requires surgery under a general anesthetic. The policy will also assist in aftercare expenses in some circumstances. This means that if the horse needs veterinarian attention NOW and is placed under a general anesthetic (for colic for example), then the optional ELSS insurance can provide up to $2,500 in financial relief.

These two policies are very inexpensive upfront, but are a valuable safety net for the unexpected.

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ALBERTA BITS I SUMMER 2019

Twisted Tree Photography

Members Named Perils (MNP) MNP is a life insurance policy on the horse. The policy covers (up to) $10,000 of value for loss (death) arising from a long list of causes or Perils. The Named Perils that are included are external causes of death and include: Fire, lightning or smoke; collision or overturn of a conveyance in which a horse is being transported; windstorms or hail; earthquakes or floods; accidental shooting (unless by you or your employee); electrocution by an artificially generated electrical current; an attack by a dog or wild animal; the collapse of a building, or the collapse of a bridge or culvert while the horse is being transported thereon drowning.

AND Destruction as ordered by public authority arising from a reportable disease under regulation issued by CFIA/ Provincial authority; limited to two times the compensation paid by CFIA/Provincial authority and not to exceed the actual cash value of the horse at the date of death or the policy limit (whichever is the lesser).

What we like about this broad coverage is that it covers ANY horse you own, and does not need to be named at the time of purchase. Also, the coverage is in force regardless of the age of the horse or where it is in North America at the time of loss.

We know that insurance is one of those things that no one likes to think about, but when you need it, you will be glad you have it. Visit the AEF website for more information or give us a call at 1-800-670-1877 and ask for the equine department.

Have you already renewed for 2019? These and other optional insurance products can be added to your membership at any time during the year. AB

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

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M E M B E R O R G A N I Z AT IO N S A S O F M AY 2 1 , 2 0 1 9 , 2 0 1 9 IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN FINDING OUT MORE ABOUT ONE OF THESE CLUBS, OR JOINING, MAKE SURE YOU CONTACT THEM 4:13 Therapeutic Riding Association..................................................... 413therapeuticriding.com Alberta Carriage Driving Association (ACDA).............................................. albertadriving-acda.ca Alberta Central Region Pony Club.............................................................. canadianponyclub.org Alberta Donkey and Mule Club..........................................................albertadonkeyandmule.com Alberta Dressage Association...................................................................... albertadressage.com Alberta Equestrian Vaulting Association..................... albertaequestrianvaultingassoc@gmail.com Alberta Friesian Horse Association.................................................................................... afha.ca Alberta Horse Trials Association..................................................................albertahorsetrials.com Alberta Morgan Horse Club............................................................ albertamorganhorseclub.com Alberta Mounted Shooters Association.............................................. albertamountedshooters.ca Alberta South Region Pony Club.......................................... canadianponyclub.org/AlbertaSouth Alberta Trail Riding Association.......................................................................................... atra.ca Alberta Walking Horse Association..................................................................................awha.ca American Saddlebred Horse Association of Alberta.....................www.saddlebredsofalberta.com Banff Light Horse Association......................................................................... ruthann7@telus.net Bear Valley Rescue Society................................................................................. bearvalleyab.org Beaverlodge Pony Club............................................................beaverlodgeponyclub@gmail.com Black Diamond Polo Club........................................................................ blackdiamondpolo.com Border Cowboy Mounted Shooters Association .....bordercowboysmountedshooters.com/index.php Bow Valley Riding Association......................................................................bvra.wordpress.com Calgary Arabian Horse Association.....................................................winterrose99@hotmail.com Calgary Regional Appaloosa Club (1997)............................................... calgaryappaloosaclub.ca Calgary Regional Trail Riders............................................................calgaryregionaltrailriders.com Calgary Western Riders................................................................................................. facebook Canadian Cowboy Mounted Shooters Association.........................canadianmountedshooters.ca Canadian Horse Breeders Association Rocky Mountain District........canadianhorsebreeders.com Canadian Registry of the Tennessee Walking Horse........................................................ crtwh.ca Canadian Sport Horse Association Alberta Chapter.................................................... c-s-h-a.org Canadian Warmblood Horse Breeders Association - Alberta Chapter.. canadianwarmbloods.com Central Alberta Adult Riding Club........................................................panddjensen@hotmail.com Central Century Team Ropers Association.....................................centurycentralteamroping.com Central Peace Horse Association.............................................................. ericg.astell@gmail.com Chinook Carriage Driving Club..........................................chinookcarriagedrivingclub@gmail.com Chinook Country/Alberta Dressage Association........................................... albertadressage.com Cleardale Riders...........................................................................sandyrichardson@abnorth.com Clearwater Horse Club.....................................................................cwhctreasurer@outlook.com Coulle Winds Saddle Club.......................................................................... kheapy@outlook.com Davisburg Pony Club............................ canadianponyclub.org/AlbertaSouth/branches/davisburg Delacour Agricultural Society and Community Club...............................................delacourhall.ca DeWinton Pony Club....................................................................inhandequinetherapy@me.com Diamond Willow vaulting Club.......................................................vaultingchick101@hotmail.com Didsbury Agricultural Society......................................................................didsburyagsociety.org Dunmore Equestrian Society..................................................................dunmoreequestrian.com Edmonton Area /Alberta Dressage Association...............................................................eaada.ca Endurance Riders of Alberta.......................................................... enduranceridersofalberta.com Evergreen Park (Grande Prairie Agricultural & Exhibition Society).......................evergreenpark.ca Extreme Cowboy Alberta Association ...................................................extremecowboyracing.ca Fairview Sport Horse Society..............................................fairviewsporthorsesociety.weebly.com Family Fun Rodeo Series...........................................................familyfunrodeoseries.weebly.com Friends of the Eastern Slopes........................................................................................ foesa.org Fun Country Riding Club of Strathmore.......................................................funcountryriders.com Happy Valley Ag and Recreation Club..........................................happyvalleyagrec@outlook.com Hastings Lake Pleasure Horse Association.................. hastingslakepleasurehorseassociation.org High Country Carriage Driving Club............................................................................... hccdc.ca High Country Pony Club.................... canadianponyclub.org/AlbertaSouth/branches/highcountry High Kick Vaulters................................................... highkickvaulters.wixsite.com/highkickvaulters Hoofbeats for Hope Equine Team Society................................ hoofbeatsequineteam@gmail.com Irricana Riding & Roping Club......................................................................teasieo@hotmail.com Journeys Therapeutic Riding Society.................................................................................. jtrs.ca Jump Alberta Society.........................................................................................jumpalberta.com Lacombe Light Horse Association................................................................................................

Little Bits Therapeutic Riding Association ....................................................................littlebits.ca Meadow Creek Vaulting Club...........................................................................................mcvc.ca Millarville Musical Ride................................................................................dwbuckland@aol.com Millarville Racing and Agricultural Society..................................................millarvilleracetrack.com Miniatures in Motion.......................................................collies72.wixsite.com/miniaturesinmotion Mount View Special Riding Association.......................................................mountviewriding.com Northern Trails Riding Club................................................................northerntrailsridingclub.com Opening Gaits Therapeutic Riding Society of Calgary.......................................... openinggaits.ca Over the Hills Trail Riders................................................................................fjhorses@syban.net Peace Area Riding For The Disabled Society.................................................................. pards.ca Peace Draft Horse Club............................................................... www.peacedrafthorseclub.com Peace Region Alberta Dressage Association.............................peaceregiondressage@gmail.com Performance Standardbreds Association......................................................p-standardbreds.org Polocrosse Calgary..................................................................................... lplant@telusplanet.net Ponoka Riding & Roping Association.................................................................. rmvold@aol.com Prentice Creek Equestrian Centre................................................................ ridepcec@gmail.com Ranahan Polocrosse Club..........................................................................ranahanpolocrosse.ca Rimbey Sleigh, Wagon & Saddle Club................................................rimbeyswsclub@gmail.com Rocky Mountain Gymkhana Club................................................... rockymountaingymkhana.com Rundle Riders Therapeutic Riding Association....................................................rundleriders.com Saddle Seat Canada.................................................................................saddleseatcanada.com Shortgrass Riding Club...............................................................................lwaynemu@eidnet.org South Century Team Roping Association........................................ southcenturyteamroping.com South Country Team Penning Association...................................................................... sctpa.ca South Peace Horse Show Association....................................................southpeacehorseclub.ca

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Southern Alberta Trail Riders Association.......................................................................satra.ca Springbank Equestrian Society.. springbankpark.com/index.php/springbank-equestrian-society Springbank Pony Club..................... canadianponyclub.org/AlbertaSouth/branches/springbank Spruce View Gymkhana Club........................................................dwedmondson4@gmail.com Stone Bridge Carriage Driving Club.......................................stonebridgecarriagedrivingclub.ca Strathcona All-Breed Horse Association.......................................................... sahaalberta.com Tennessee Walking Horse Association Of Western Canada................................... twhawc.com Trail Riding Alberta Conference................................................................................trailriding.ca Traildusters Horse Club of Smith................................................................................................

Tri-County Riding Club................................................................................ schenk88@telus.net Uplift Therapeutic Riding Association.................................................. sturgeonlynn@gmail.com Valley Riders Saddle Club..........................................................sandyrichardson@abnorth.com Valleyview & Districts Agricultural Society.................................................valleyviewagsociety.ca Western Canadian Wagon Train..............................................................gsissons@hotmail.com Western Dressage Association of Southern Alberta.................................................... wdasa.ca Wild Rose Draft Horse Association...........................................................................wrdha.com Wildrose Mounted Shooters........................................ wildrosemountedshooters@hotmail.com Will for Riding Foundation.................................................................willforridingfoundation.com

BUSINESS MEMBERS Alberta Association of Complementary Equine Therapy........................................................... aacet.ca Balanced Body Therapy.............................................................................balancedbodytherapy.ca Banff Trail Riders............................................................................................................horseback.com Bar T5 Trailers and Tack......................................................................................... bart5trailers.com Barnyard Biscuits...............................................................................................barnyardbiscuits.ca Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health........................................................................ BICanadaEquine.ca CapriCMW Insurance.....................................................................................................capricmw.ca Carpino Production & Design.........................................................................palmocarpino@gmail.com Cartier Farms ................................................................................................................cartierfarms.ca Colchester Farms ................................................................................................ colchesterfarms.com Coulee Equine............................................................................................................. couleeequine.ca Creekside Equestrian Centre....................................................................................................mcvc.ca Daventry Equine Appraisal Services ............................................................equineappraisers.com Equestrian Fashion Outfitters - Red Deer.............................................. equestrianfashionoutfitters.com Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) Canada Ltd........................................................... ealcanada.com Equine Connection Inc.......................................................................................... equineconnection.ca Equus Physio......................................................................................................... equusphysio.com Evolution Equi-Sport Therapy............................................................................ evolutiontherapy.ca Flatlander Equine . ............................................................................................... flatlanderequine.com Foothills Horse Transport.............................................................................foothillshorsetransport.com Glen Valley Farm......................................................................................................... glenvalleyfarm.ca Greenhawk Grande Prairie............................................................................................greenhawk.com High Country Equestrian Center...................................................................... hcequestriancenter.com Higher Trails Equine Ltd.............................................................................................. highertrails.ca Hi-Hog Farm & Ranch Equipment........................................................................................hi-hog.com Horse In Hand Ranch Ltd.................................................................horseinhandranch.com/index.html Just Passing Horse Transport & Bereavement Services........................................ justpassinghorses.ca Kaspian Equestrian Training Centre (Rock-N-Rail Ranch Inc.)..............................kaspianequestrian.com Katy Whitt Photography.............................................................................................. katywhitt.com Lawton & Co, LLP..................................................................................................... info@lawtonco.ca Mane Equestrian Athletics...................................................................................................... facebook Martin Deerline....................................................................................................martindeerline.com Moose Hill Ranch...................................................................................................moosehillranch.com Mountain View Photographic Services.................................... mountainviewphotographicservices.com New View Stables..................................................................................................newviewstables.com Olds College....................................................................................................................oldscollege.ca Parkland Equestrian Centre................................................................................ parklandequestrian.ca Persons Equine Dust Control.........................................................................................personscs.com Precision Saddle Fitting................................................................................ precisionsaddlefitting.com Raema Racher Horsemanship................................................................... raema_racher@hotmail.com Release Equine.................................................................................................... releaseequine.com RENEW Equine Therapy...............................................................renewequinetherapy@gmail.com Rocking Heart Ranch Ltd.........................................................................rockingheartranchltd.com Rocking Star Ranch Equine...............................................................................rockingstarranch.ca Rock’N Horse Ranch Arena & Stables....................................................................rocknhorseranch.ca Royal T Equestrian Inc...........................................................................royaltequestrian.webs.com Saltaire Equestrian Haus...............................................................................saltaireequestrian.com Silverado Horse Centre (LMJ Ltd.).................................................................silveradohorsecentre.com Spirit Winds Ranch................................................................................................................. facebook Spring Lake Equestrian Campground Association..................................... maryannwestad@gmail.com Strathcona Ventures .................................................................................. strathconaventures.com Synergy Solutions Inc.......................................................................................... synergyapparel.ca Takoda Equine Therapy.................................................................................gwmartin@telusplanet.net TD Equine Veterinary Group.........................................................................................tdequinevet.com The Horse Store.........................................................................................................horsestore.com The Mane Event Equine Education & Trade Show................................................. maneeventexpo.com The School of Equine Massage and Rehabilitation Therapies.........................................equinerehab.ca Tyrrell Riding Academy Inc.......................................................................tyrrellridingacademy.com Vitality Equine ...................................................................................................... vitalityequine.com W5M Equine Therapy...................................................................................w5mequinemassage.ca Western Horse Review................................................................................... westernhorsereview.com Westwood Warmbloods.............................................................................westwoodwarmbloods.com Whitemud Equine Learning Centre Association........................................................................ welca.ca Wildflower Riding Club.............................................................................................. wildflowerriding.ca Willow Grove Stables Inc............................................................................willowgrovestables.com

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