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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 involvements, as Alberta’s premier resource for education, information, and support.
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, and 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.
PRESIDENT Sandy Bell 403.700.7880 windhorseretreat@gmail.com
PRESIDENT-ELECT Jason Edworthy 403.651.5678 jedworthy@spring-bank.ca
SECRETARY Sharon Crawford 403-837-6205 sharonlcrawford@shaw.ca
TREASURER Nicolas Brown 587.988.3590 bruchev@gmail.com
INDIVIDUAL Margot Anderson 403.861.8603 margotranderson@gmail.com
INDIVIDUAL Mary Bell 519.830.7292 mary@manningtonequine.ca
INDIVIDUAL Patrick Buffalo 780-312-0114 pbuffalo@daywalker.ca
INDIVIDUAL Jasmine Deib 780-318-1012 jasminedeib@hotmail.com
INDIVIDUAL Jennifer Dimopoulos 403-703-0544 jumperjunkie@gmail.com
INDIVIDUAL Brenda Spanier 403.932.2936 brendaspanier@gmail.com
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Sonia Dantu execdir@albertaequestrian.com 403.253.4411 ext 5
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Sonia Dantu • Monique Noble • Kenda Lubeck CONTRIBUTORS
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Tania Millen Monique Noble Shannon Skeels
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ADVERTISING SALES DEADLINES
Winter 2022: November 1, 2022
A MEDIA
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Hailey Nelson, Educational Scholarship recipient.
The Coach Developer program explained and introducing newest coach mentors.
The results are in! New research conducted by the AEF shows considerable contribution of the horse industry to the provincial economy.
An infographic on the basics of equine grooming.
Tania Millen gives us some inspiration for the off-season.
for healthy hooves.
ever-evolving Oldenburg.
tips
King explains
offers
much more than
Thank you, THANK YOU. You helped make it happen! Thanks to your input and support – you, our members, our partners, our community – we did it!
The AEF is proud and delighted to release the results of our research study, The Economic Impacts of Alberta’s Equine Community.
For many years, the AEF Board of Directors and the AEF Staff held a vision of doing a study about the importance of the equine community to Alberta. We wanted to learn more about our community in general, not just about AEF members, so we could deepen our understanding of it. We had some ideas about its value, but we didn’t have anything concrete to base those thoughts upon.
We felt that the Alberta equine community had a big impact on the economy, and now we know the number. It’s impressive. From the report:
“Our findings for the equine industry indicate that the total economic impact in terms of gross domestic product (GDP)
amounted to $1.356 billion in 2021.”
We make an important contribution to Alberta, just like we thought. We spend a great deal, and we also create jobs. Also from the report:
“Our analysis reveals that in Alberta approximately 6,780 jobs [measured in full time equivalents (FTE)] are contributed by the various equine industry activities beyond the typical expenditures for keeping horses. After accounting for all horse keeping expenditures, the total number in Alberta of FTE jobs contributed by the equine industry is approximately 20,380.”
The Alberta equine community matters – a lot. We’re not a “hobby” or an aside to other agricultural activities. We’re a fundamental and significant contributor to what makes our province dynamic and successful.
We recognize the limitations of our research study. The entire complexities of the lives of equines and equestrians cannot be captured. Yet it’s a solid study for its purposes. So, the AEF Board of
Directors will use these findings and others in the report to plan for the future.
You can use this report too. It has loads of value, and it’ll be shared widely with everyone who is interested.
Once again, THANK YOU. Together we turned the AEF’s vision for a better understanding of the Alberta equine community into a reality with numbers attached to it.
In closing, I wish you a happy and safe autumn. Alberta’s fall has some of the best riding and driving weather in the year. Happy trails! AB
As we come to the end of another long hot summer, many are returning from hardearned vacations while others are scaling down their competition and trail riding season to head back to work. This seasonal transition is a busy time. Thankfully, many were fortunate to return to some normal activity during the summer and fall. It is my hope that everyone found some peace and tranquility doing what they loved over the summer months.
I was fortunately able to stop by a youth summer camp this year and spend time with those participating. It is easy to see where the passion starts and how confidence levels change when interacting with equines. Being outside, spending time with one of the world’s most beautiful animals encourages healthy living, and supports important cognitive and physical development for youth. There are magical things that happen between young people and horses and you can see the social skills and creative abilities increase as the minutes and hours go by.
It is our hope that our members get a chance to experience different activities
with multiple breeds and disciplines. We offer numerous programs, services, and activities for beginners through to experts, for the young and the young-at-heart participating in the equine community. General funding is available twice yearly for individual and club members; the criteria is broad, but intended to help support developmental pursuits. Scholarships and bursaries are made available annually for entry and post-secondary levels. There are many incentives for members to “earn back,” such as our Membership Referral Program. For every new member you refer, you can earn $5 toward your membership. Check out our website for all the benefits that come with your membership.
Many of us are aware of the impacts that the past years’ floods, fires, and COVID-19 had on our herd. AEF was instrumental in stepping up to help where we could and with what was available. This summer we set up a $50,000 Equine Emergency Disaster Fund. The purpose of this fund is to ensure we can help in the future with Alberta equines in life-threatening situations. We will continue to build
on this fund and thank those who have already gifted a donation and those who may be considering one. All donations can be made easily through the website.
We hope you enjoy reading this jam-packed issue of Alberta Bits, and particularly the details of the recently completed economic impact study. We have many exciting projects and benefits to share with you in the coming months. With sincere appreciation to members for their ongoing support, to the Board for keeping aligned with our vision, and to the office team for working passionately on a daily basis – thank you!
Be inspired with this wonderful season of change! AB
As a young girl, Hailey Nelson knew she wanted to pursue a career in the equine industry. Although faced with many challenges along the way, Hailey persevered and has turned her dreams into a reality.
Hailey has been involved with various organizations over the years: Alberta High School Rodeo, Canadian Girls Rodeo Association, 4H, and the Calgary Stampede Showriders. Through her experiences she has gained knowledge and met people who have had a huge impact on her life. This has fuelled her passion for a career in training / coaching.
Being an AEF member has given Hailey peace of mind and some financial support with the Educational Scholarship. Hailey attends Lakeland College and is enrolled in the Animal Science Technology: Equine Science Program. After completing her education, Hailey will continue to train horses and would like to become a riding coach so she can share her knowledge and inspire younger generations of equestrians, just as her coach has done for her.
We wish Hailey the best of luck in her future endeavors!
Educational and Industry Scholarships are available each year to current members who are enrolled in / pursuing equine-related postsecondary education.
We all had at least one person outside our family who was responsible for teaching us key skills relevant to living in a society, that one person who made a difference in setting us up for success. More often than not, that person was a sports instructor or coach. These folks seem to have the ability to detangle knots and teach us how to work in teams while showing empathy towards others. Instructors and coaches, usually from outside our family circle, teach us how to care for humans and animals because it is the right thing to do. Coaches have a different perspective on life, a different background from what we are used to. This is specifically the reason why their mentorship has such an impact on our lives. They teach us the unknown, the unfamiliar. Have you ever wondered who taught your instructor/coach? In the Equestrian Canada (EC) National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP), coaches who mentor other coaches are called Coach Developers. Coach Developers are individuals who strongly believe in lifelong learning. They are constantly seeking information to expand their knowledge and learn how to perform their role in the best way possible, and then share it with those who are beginning their path to improve others’ lives.
“An NCCP Coach Developer is an experienced coach trained to develop, support, and challenge coaches in training” (coach.ca, 2022), and they can play any of these roles:
• NCCP Learning Facilitator – train coaches to coach at all levels.
• NCCP Coach Evaluator – evaluate coaches and guide them to certification.
• NCCP Master Coach Developer –train, mentor, and evaluate Coach Developers.”
The Alberta Equestrian Federation (AEF) believes that education is fundamental to the success of our community. Paulo Freire, Brazilian educator, philosopher, and leading advocate of critical teaching methods, argues that one can only act and transform the society in which they live if they understand the reality in which they are immersed. From then onwards, reflection and criticism of this reality will feed and enable the enlightened thinker to transform their social context (Freire, 2011). Our team believes that the EC NCCP is consistent with our values, and provides networks and tools for riders, candidates, instructors, and coaches to safely act and transform their community with the changes we all aspire to see in our industry.
The AEF is proud to present short bios of our exceptional team of Coach Developers, our enablers across this diverse and extraordinary province.
carriage drivers get a safe, fun start in the world of driving and continue to improve. The best way to accomplish this is to develop qualified, knowledgeable driving instructors/coaches who can guide students through the learning process. The coaching program is important as it teaches a consistent, basic format and guidelines that all accredited coaches follow and expand on with their own personal skills.
Grande Prairie, AB
I am a Coach Evaluator for the driving discipline. I have been teaching driving skills for over 20 years, both competitively and for recreation. My goal is to ensure
I am a Coach Evaluator, and I am in training for the Learning Facilitator role. I decided to become a Coach Developer because I wanted to give back to the equine community and help everyone feel that their goals and dreams are achievable. I also wanted to be a leader and keep challenging [the concept] that we are never done learning, and no matter what stage, we can succeed together. I enjoy inspiring new coaches to develop and go out and inspire more young athletes to be safe and pursue a career in our industry. This program is so important to our industry and sport, no matter which direction your path takes you. It’s important to have good animal husbandry and safety knowledge
for yourself, athletes, and equines, and basic roots knowledge you can keep expanding on each day to advance your skills, and bring up professionalism in the industry.
Airdrie, AB
I am an EC NCCP English Competition Coach and Coach Developer. In addition to my Coaching Certification, Rider Level Assessor, Education Degree, and Biological Sciences degree, I felt it very important to add Learning Facilitator and Coach Evaluator to my roles. Currently, I am pursuing the required training to become a Master Coach Developer. As an educator, acquiring my coaching certification was a priority from the beginning of my career. My first love has always been education in one form or another, therefore, becoming a Coach Developer was a passion I embraced fully while teaching the Equine Science program at Olds College. I enjoy the opportunity to help instructors and coaches become the best version they can be and thereby significantly impact the development of young equestrians. I am located in Airdrie, but I travel to assist equestrians and coaches throughout Alberta and the surrounding provinces. I believe riders and coaches should strive to always be learning and growing. As lifelong learners, through education, we can ensure a consistent standard of excellence which benefits the sport and the horses we compete on.
I hold four Equestrian Canada (EC) National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP) certifications: Western Competition Coach Specialist in General Performance, Reining, and Speed Events, and English Competition Coach. I became a Coach Evaluator to help new people entering into the program have a positive experience. Helping folks succeed in the coaching program became my main focus, so I went on to become a Coach Developer. What I enjoy most about my role as a Coach Developer is making the EC programs welcoming and safe. I strive to make our sport accessible and affordable for everyone.
use and application of the Learn to Ride Program, Instructor and Coach Certification Program, and now as a Coach Developer, a mentoring program. I believe in and value the coaching program because it aligns with my philosophy of “fostering horsemanship into the future.” The program promotes empowering riders, excellent care for our horses, providing a creative and thoughtful learning environment, ethical conduct of horsemen to ride, compete and grow, and the community connection and joy to the horse. I hold Western High Performance 1 and English Competition Coach certifications.
I love and support the Equestrian Canada programming and have grown personally and professionally in the
I am a Coach Evaluator and have started the pathway to become a Learning Facilitator. I love mentorship. I’ve had some amazing coaches from the grassroots level to the Alberta Horse Trials High Performance team. I know the positive experiences I’ve had with my coaches and want upcoming coaches to also pass that on to their students. Learning new things is what I most enjoy in my role as a Coach Developer! Every candidate has different experiences and ideas to bring forward. I also enjoy supporting those who want to reach their coaching goals. I believe in the coaching program because my first experience riding was with a certified coach, and her knowledge and enthusiasm of continued learning has set me up – not only in my riding
– but also in my career. I believe it sets a standard starting point, so that those coming into the sport have a positive experience.
Evaluator, and I am currently taking courses to become a Learning Facilitator as I am passionate about teaching. The Equestrian Canada coaching program has a great platform. I feel it’s important that all coaches are certified through the program.
I have been riding for more than 40 years and coaching for more than 20. I have been a Competition Coach Specialist for five years. I am a Coach
For more information on how to become an EC NCCP Coach Developer or Certified Instructor/Coach, please contact coaching@albertaequestrian.com or at 403.253.4411 ext. 3.
Coaching Association of Canada. (August 23, 2022). Become an NCCP Coach Developer. https://coach.ca/ become-nccp-coach-developer
FREIRE, P. (2011). Educação e Mudança [Education and Change]. São Paulo: Paz e Terra.
AEF for an activity book and crayons!
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New research by the Alberta Equestrian Federation shows significant contribution of the horse industry to the Alberta economy.
BY KENDA LUBECKIt’s no surprise Albertans are passionate about their horses, donkeys, and mules. Our province’s heritage is rich with culture and traditions deeply rooted in life with these magnificent creatures.What might be surprising, however, is the impact equines have on the provincial economy in Alberta. With increased urbanization and less need for horses as a way to make a living, equine ownership could very well be classified as a luxury.
The Alberta Equestrian Federation (AEF) has sought for many years to better understand the Albertan equine community and its contribution to the province. In 2021 AEF hired an independent contractor, Serecon Inc., to conduct a study to determine the current status of Alberta’s equine community and estimate the economic benefits that it contributes to the provincial economy.
“We wanted an objective view of the impact that equestrian activity and
equine ownership has in our province,” says Jason Edworthy, President-Elect for AEF. “This would not only help us justify programming investments in equestrian sport, welfare, education, and recreation activities, but also set a benchmark to compare Alberta to other jurisdictions. It would also help us monitor growth, future trends and activity going forward.”
The diverse nature of the equine sector made it challenging to capture data.
AEF worked with key stakeholders in the equine community, using their knowledge and experiences to design a comprehensive survey. The survey was administered through multiple social media groups and electronic distribution tools in the fall of 2021, and garnered over 1,500 responses from a wide array of industry and community participants.
Findings indicate the diverse mix of equine activities had a total economic impact of over $1.3 billion in Alberta in terms of gross domestic product (GDP). That’s a significant financial contribution to the province. The equine industry and its communities are serious business in Alberta.
“We had an idea that the equine industry was a contributing factor to the total dollars, jobs, and household income generated in Alberta,” says Edworthy, “but this number was pleasantly higher than what we were expecting.”
When it comes to the matter of
Over 54 per cent of the horses surveyed in Alberta are used for recreation, nearly 40 per cent are used for sport, and roughly six per cent are used for work.
employment, again, the equine industry has a notable impact. The study shows in 2021 over 13,600 full time equivalent (FTE) jobs directly related to horse keeping (vet, farrier, stable management, etc.) were contributed. After accounting for jobs related to additional equine activities (riding lessons, summer camps, horse training, etc.), the total number of jobs contributed by the equine industry came in at over 20,300 FTEs, resulting in a contribution of $855 million in labour income.
So what is it about the equine industry and its communities that demands so much work? The study found Alberta is home to over 142,000 horses, donkeys, and mules. Expenditures on these animals account for vet, farrier, horse care products and services, feed, bedding, and outside maintenance labour – and that’s just for the basics.
Over 54 per cent of the horses, donkeys, and mules in Alberta are used for recreation such as trail riding,
summer camps, and backyard animals. Those used for sport such as driving, dressage, vaulting, reining, and show jumping account for nearly 40 per cent of the animals, and roughly six per cent are put to work with jobs like outfitting, ranch work, and guiding.
For overall expenditures like board, feed, and health care, owners of equines used for sport shell out the most, paying approximately $12,700 per year to meet their animals’ needs. Owners of equines used for recreation pay nearly half that, at approximately $7,500, and owners of horses used for work see yearly expenditures around $3,700. By far the majority of these costs go to construction, repair, and maintenance of building and equipment for horses. Then feed, bedding, vet, and farrier expenses come into play. The costs associated with horse care products, travel, and tack were markedly higher for horses used for sport than recreation and work.
“Horses used for work incur lower expenditures because of the operating circumstances,” explains Edworthy. “Equines kept on farms or used on ranchlands or backcountry guiding
Overall expenditures for horses used for sport are nearly double that of horses used for recreation, and over
typically sustain lower values for all expense categories due to the location and nature of farming and outfitting uses.”
Information from the study is available online to help others understand the importance of the impact the equine industry and its communities has on our province.
“With this kind of information we
can continue to create opportunities for growth in our industry,” says Edworthy. “It’s no accident that Alberta is home to two of the world’s leading equestrianbased events – Spruce Meadows and the Calgary Stampede. We have a strong equestrian community; our heritage and culture was built on the backs of horses.”
For more information and to access the study, visit www.albertaequestrian.com.
Grooming is an important aspect of horse ownership and care. Time spent grooming and brushing your equine increases your bond with the animal but not only that, it offers many practical benefits for keeping him healthy.
Since soundness should always be top of mind, grooming is important because it requires you to put your hands all over your horse’s body and inspect the health of his coat, legs, mane bed, hooves, etc. It gives you the opportunity to feel for lumps or bumps and a chance to see if your horse has any skin fungi, wounds or lacerations, harmful parasites, diseases, or injuries of
the hoof. These are the kinds of ailments you cannot see from a distance in the pasture, but have a profound effect on their well-being.
Additionally, well cared for, shiny horses have an edge when it comes to competition or a potential sale, as it improves their appearance and public image and demonstrates the level of care you provide for them. As much as horses give us when it comes to the time we spend on their backs, the least we can do is give them a good grooming before and after a workout.
All grooming sessions should begin with picking out all four hooves. Using a hoof pick, pick/scrape/brush out the “V” of the horse’s hoof, better known as the “frog.” Remove any dirt, mud, or rocks that are lodged there and clean the sole of the horse’s foot as best you can. Check for any abnormalities such as thrush, cracks in the hoof, potential sole bruises, or punctures and any scabbylike abrasions on the back of the heel, pastern, or leg. If you find anything unusual, you may want to consult with your farrier or veterinarian. Continue to pick each of the hooves until they are all cleaned out.
The time of year often dictates which grooming tools you might wish to use first. For instance, in the spring (as horses are shedding their winter coats), a shedding blade may be the best to start. Gently – but effectively – move with the direction of hair growth in the horse’s coat and dislodge any hair that is ready to come out. Don’t push too hard, as some of the shedding blades available for grooming horses can actually lacerate the skin if used too forcefully. As the shedding blade fills with hair, you’ll need to remove it to continue.
They give us their all. The least we can do is give them a good grooming at the start and at the end of a workout. Here are the basics.
A curry comb or grooming mitt loosens the dirt in your horse’s coat. Move in a circular motion starting at the neck, moving across his shoulder, girth area, back, legs, and hind end. This part of grooming can be quite enjoyable for horses, when done properly. When currying, keep an eye out for any skin abrasions or wounds.
Once dirt is brought to the surface of the horse’s coat, it’s time to brush it away. Body brushes are long-bristled, stiff brushes that literally “flick” the dirt off the horse’s back, with the right kind of wrist action. Again, move with the direction of the horse’s hair growth and across his body.
A softer bristled brush (also known as a “finishing brush”) is ideal for the horse’s face, behind the ears, and across the pasterns. Gently brushing the back of the horse’s heel bulbs each day is a great way to prevent scratches or “greasy heel.” A soft brush also brings a bit of a shine to the horse’s overall coat.
Every discipline has distinct grooming requirements and preferences. Short manes, long manes, or roached manes for instance, all serve a purpose to their respective sports. Either way, regular, close inspection of a horse’s mane bed helps to protect the animal from lice or dandruff.
If the horse has a long, flowing mane, a detangler spray may be necessary and makes brushing out long strands easier. When brushing the tail, always ensure you stand to one side to protect yourself from getting kicked, in the event the horse is a nervous type.
Cleaning of the ears, eyes, muzzle, and dock is always an important health consideration and grooming offers the perfect opportunity to look these parts over. Should anything concern you or seem abnormal in these areas, it’s time to call your vet. Show grooming versus everyday grooming also requires different priorities. The way you groom, clip, or shine the ears, eyes, and muzzle may vary with the discipline.
Remember also that if dirty gear (girths, cinches, or saddle pads) is shared from one horse to another, it can spread harmful skin diseases or fungi. Wash your gear frequently, let it hang in the sun to dry, and clean cinches or girths after every use.
The non-competitive and non-trail riding season (aka winter), is a great time to revisit why you ride, what you want to achieve, and assess your horse’s training and condition. Since there’s less pressure to achieve goals in a short time, horses and riders often have a lot of fun at this time of year. With that in mind, here are eight ways to enjoy the off-season with your horse, regardless of your riding level or sport.
Many horse sports move inside for the colder months, so this can be a great time to try something new. Most equestrian sports require skills that cross over from one to the other. A new sport will likely use some of the skills you already have, plus develop new ones that may improve your riding.
Find out which coaches are in your area and sign up for a lesson in whatever sport they teach. Maybe you’ll end up
trying mounted shooting, working equitation, roping, drill team, jumping, or dressage.
You can also contact horse groups in your area to find out what they have planned; the AEF has a list on their website. Your local group would probably love to welcome a new member and you may have the opportunity to attend an upcoming clinic.
The off-season is also a great time to take a break from riding and give your horse a rest. But before taking time off, decide how long your break will be, set goals for next season, and plan how you’ll both get fit again. It’s easy for a onemonth break to morph into a whole winter off, so planning how you’ll get back on schedule will help keep your riding goals on track.
Poor weather and road conditions, plus shorter days can limit how much riding you do in the off-season – so it’s an ideal time to ride a bit less. If you don’t want to take a complete break, just ride a few days per week. That may mean riding outside or on an intermittent schedule, but it’ll still help you and your horse retain some fitness. Plus, most equine competitions and trail riding opportunities occur regardless of the weather, so practice riding safely in rain, wind, and snow. It can be fun!
Horses are renowned for becoming injured and sometimes there isn’t time during the summer riding season to truly address issues that crop up. If that’s the case, consider getting a full veterinary workup for your horse when the riding season winds down. Body workers and rehabilitation specialists may help too.
Alternatively, if you’ve struggled with hoof concerns, work with your farrier to address those problems. If you’ve had injuries yourself, now’s the perfect time to speak with health care professionals, do rehabilitation exercises, and work on your own symmetry.
Horses and riders are athletes, regardless of their sport. Long days of trail riding are taxing and require fit horses and riders, just as reining, jumping, and other horse sports do. Fortunately, the off-season is a perfect time to add strength and fitness to both horse and rider routines.
Consider getting help from a sport-specific coach or trainer to develop an off-season fitness plan for your horse. Every equestrian sport has unique demands so find someone who is familiar with your discipline. Remember that conditioning in strength and endurance each require different exercises.
Riders can follow a fitness plan also. Adding fitness in the off-season means you’ll come back a stronger rider next year. There are many professionals who can help you build your best riding body and it’s worth using their knowledge. They can ensure you’re doing useful exercises that will produce maximum results for your efforts.
The off-season is a good time to have a professional train your horse. They can help you progress faster, assist with challenges that you’re not sure how to fix, or give you a break from riding. Choosing the right trainer for you and your horse are key. If your horse will be boarded at the trainer’s facility be sure to visit their place in person ahead of time, get references, speak to their clients, and watch them train. Every trainer has different methods and skills, so try to match what you and your horse need with the best trainer you can afford.
Good riding always comes back to having good basic skills.
Taking a chunk of time in the off-season to solidify your basics will pay dividends in the long run. Riders can work on their precision, timing, and clarity while training their horses to respond faster to lighter aids.
If you’re stuck on what to do, find a coach, take online classes, attend a webinar, watch videos, or read books and articles. With little pressure to accomplish specific goals, you can afford to ‘go slow to go fast’.
The end of this year’s riding season is a good time to reflect on how the year went, what you accomplished (or didn’t), and your potential goals for next year. Your reflections may help identify areas for improvement. Alternatively, you may decide to ramp up your efforts and pursue some larger challenges. Whatever you decide, creating a calendar and blueprint to achieve next year’s goals is a great motivator for the off-season. If you post your calendar where you’ll see it every day, it’ll help you visualize what you’re trying to achieve and maintain enthusiasm for every ride.
The off-season may not be filled with endless horsey events, but it can be just as rewarding. Slowing down, taking a break, increasing fitness and skills, and working toward future goals are all valuable activities that will help riders –and their horses – be more successful next season. Take the time to determine how you would like to spend the next few months with your horse. With a bit of planning, autumn, winter, and spring riding can be just as enjoyable as the summer riding season. AB
Horse owners know that maintaining healthy hooves is im portant to keep our equine partners sound, happy, and able to perform. A horse’s diet plays an important role in main taining good hoof quality, strength, and durability through out the horse’s life.
Horses require certain nutrients for hoof growth and main tenance, and it’s important that nutrients are provided in specific ratios. The key to healthy hooves is a well-balanced diet; this means the horse is receiving all necessary nutrients and the diet has no imbalances, deficiencies, or excesses. Al though many nutrients are required in the equine diet, some key nutrients for hoof health are discussed below.
Protein is a nutrient that affects hoof health specifically because the hoof horn is composed of a protein called kera
tin. Keratin, like all protein, is made of amino acids and provides strength, hardness, and flexibility of the hoof. It is important that essential amino acids are provided in the cor rect amounts to build and maintain body tissues – includ ing hooves. Methionine is of particular importance when it comes to hoof health. If methionine is deficient in the diet, the horse will have poor hoof integrity as well as growth is sues, poor stress tolerance, and skin problems.
Vitamin B7 – better known as biotin – is one of the most important vitamins for hoof health. Biotin contains sulfur, which contributes to the strength of bonds between collagen strands in the hoof wall. Studies have shown biotin supple mentation to be beneficial in restoring strength and elasticity to the hoof wall in horses with brittle hooves. The average
horse’s diet should include 15 to 20 mg of biotin per day, but some horses benefit from additional supplementation.
A key mineral in maintaining hoof strength and integrity is zinc. Horses also need calcium to bind cells together in the hoof horn. The correct calcium-to-phosphorus ratio is critical because excess phosphorus can interfere with calci um absorption and cause many issues in the body, includ ing weakened hooves. Copper, manganese, and selenium also play a role in hoof quality and strength. An imbalance in one mineral can affect the absorption and utilization of other minerals, therefore, it is crucial that all minerals in the diet are balanced.
Research supports the efficacy of hoof supplements con taining both biotin and methionine. If a horse has serious hoof problems, it is unlikely that its diet is meeting its nutri tional requirements. It is important to make sure your horse’s diet is well balanced, and then add a hoof supplement that contains biotin, methionine, and zinc to horses who have weak or cracked hooves. Purina’s BMZ is a great option for those horses who need additional supplementation.
A horse needs a diet balanced in energy (calories) and nutrients. Adding a hoof supplement to an imbalanced diet will not improve hoof health as the horse will use the nutri ents for vital organ and bodily processes. It is essential that a horse’s diet is balanced before adding in a hoof supplement. Using a ration balancer like Purina’s Optimal or Equilizer as part of your horse’s daily ration can correct imbalances.
It’s important to remember that hooves are very slow grow ing. If you make a change to your horse’s diet, be patient; it can take 12 months or more to see visual results in the hoof.
If you need help to balance your horse’s diet, please reach out to your local Purina Equine Nutrition Consultant or con tact us via Purina Connect. We are always happy to answer questions about your horse’s nutrition! www.equipurina.ca
Almost all breeds have a standard conformation they are known for – physical ideals that breeders are encouraged to strive for and maintain. Arabs are known for stunning beauty and stamina, Thoroughbreds are known for their agility and speed. Oldenburgs, however, are not judged by fitting into a conformational standard, but rather a standard of quality and the ability to further improve the breed. This flexibility allows for several different physical traits, meaning one Oldenburg can vary greatly from another in appearance and ability. With this in mind, the German Oldenburg registry has moved away from a static conformational ideal, with their only real breed standard focusing on quality. They continue to strive for excellence by incorporating the best of sport horse breeds into Oldenburg bloodlines.
Bred to be the best sport horse possible, Oldenburgs typically stand between 16 and 17.2 hands high and feature broad foreheads and muzzles, keen eyes, and shapely ears. Bold and intelligent temperaments make them perfect for sport. Expressive, wellformed heads are set on long and wellmuscled necks, leading to prominent withers and deep chests. A rectangular frame standing over generous ground with a long, slightly inclined croup ensures the Oldenburg excels in their
designated sport. Their hind ends are sloped, typically powerful, and are frequently lower than the wither, giving them an “uphill” build. Their long legs are strong with excellent bone, and their well-defined, elastic tendons are set upon large balanced hooves capable of easily carrying their impressive size.
Depending on the type of Oldenburg breeding and the sport that line is bred for, the quality of gaits can vary greatly.
chestnut, and brown, but are also one of the few warmblood breeds that may include pinto colouring. The Oldenburg’s presence is one of almost haughty intelligence that emanates stability, power, and prowess in whatever discipline they are enjoying. Oldenburgs are willing and enthusiastic mounts that seem to revel in their athleticism. Versatile horses, they possess the work ethic of a draft horse combined with the looks and finesse of the finest riding horses around the world, and that is exactly how the present-day Oldenburg came to be.
However, the entire breed is forwardmoving and animated with great extension. Oldenburgs have incredibly fluid and energetically rhythmic movement that is almost joyful in appearance.
An Oldenburg’s coat is smooth with luxurious manes and tails that are not overly thick or unmanageable. They come in all colours, the most common being black, gray, bay,
The lush, agriculturally based land of lower Saxony in Germany (still known as Oldenburg today) was home to heavy horses used primarily for field work and hauling heavy loads in the 17th century. There were lighter horses in the area; however, none had the flash and style that German nobility and gentry preferred in their mounts and carriage horses. Many nobles, most notably Graf Johann XVI von Oldenburg (1573 – 1603), imported Spanish stallions and allowed residents to breed them to their heavy farm stock. This created a lighter, higherstepping horse with a thickness of body. Resulting progeny had the strength to work and these horses became the foundation of “Baroque” horses and
Oldenburgs are willing and enthusiastic mounts that revel in their athleticism.
the base of the Oldenburg breed.
Avid horseman, Count Anton Gunther (the Count of Oldenburg 1603-1667), further improved the Oldenburg’s reputation for quality. He returned from an expedition with horses from Spain, Italy, Turkey, and Poland and continued refining local breeding stock. The horses that his region’s stock produced were so admired he would give them as gifts to nobles, to prevent them from invading his territories.
Regal, tall, and strong, Oldenburg horses became known across Europe for their excellence and versatility, widely used as carriage, farm, and riding horses throughout the 1700 to 1900s. As there were no official studbooks in the 1700s, and studs were bred to local stock, the breed grew quickly and was heavily exported. To ensure that quality remained standard, rigorous stallion inspections, known as Körungs began in 1755 and became
a state requirement in 1820. Being the luxury carriage horses of choice for centuries made Oldenburgs quite prolific, however, it also made them a target during wartime as artillery horses. The breed suffered major losses during World War I and five years after the war, the Oldenburg studbook and the Ostfriesen Studbook (Ostfriesens are the same breed as Oldenburgs but bred in a different region in Germany) merged to strengthen the bloodlines and form the Oldenburg Horse Breeders’
Society (GOV) as it is today. Sadly, that effort was hampered as even with the use of automotives and aircraft, the German army was still heavily reliant on horsepower. While breeding efforts were at an all-time high, the Oldenburg again suffered heavy losses as military remounts.
Following WWII, the need for carriage and work horses lessened, as vehicles and tractors became more common. Oldenburg breeders – struggling to find purebreds and
Originally developed as a good strong carriage horse, the breed contains Spanish, Neopolitan, and Barb blood, along with Thoroughbred and Hannoverian.
wanting to direct their breeding to more in-demand, sport-type horses – began including select Thoroughbred and Arabian stallions, among other breeds, in the studbook. As leisure and sport riding became popular, these breeders were determined to make Oldenburg sport horses that were as renowned for quality as their carriage horse forebears were. Other breeders were equally determined to honour the traditional heavier breeding and this is where the differences between Alt-Oldenburg and Oldenburg occur. Alt-Oldenburg literally translates to Old-Oldenburg and, while they are still in the same studbook, they have retained their heavier carriage-horse physicality while the modern Oldenburg has become, as hoped, a recreational horse of athletic prowess. Modern Oldenburgs, with the influence of breeds such as Trakehners, Westfalians, and others, have become fierce competitors in the sport horse
world, frequently dominating the world stage in dressage, jumping, and eventing.
Throughout all this change, some things remain the same, and Oldenburgs are still required to pass performance tests before they are entered into the studbook.
The Oldenburg Studbook is as fluid, inclusive, and complicated as the history of the Oldenburg breed itself.
The official studbook is comprised of four studbooks and four accompanying mare books. Which book a horse qualifies for depends upon its lineage, the depth of that lineage, and the horse’s individual physical quality.
Breed tests are held annually throughout the world by GOV and in 2022, breeders were allowed to resume onsite Canadian inspections for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic. In August, I had the pleasure of attending an Oldenburg inspection hosted by
Lorrie Jamieson at Klondike Victory Farms (KVF), just outside of Sylvan Lake, Alberta. The inspection included mare and foal pairs, as well as stallions.
Each mare and foal pair were brought into the arena one set at a time with two handlers, one per horse. Pairs varied greatly in size and appearance and were a perfect example of Oldenburg variety. Mares and foals were inspected standing beside each other and performing a series of gaits, with the mare being led and the foal free to express itself.
During an inspection, the mare (if not already rated and entered in the studbooks) is scored on a scale from one to 10, with one being the lowest. Ratings and corresponding linear descriptions are then used to suggest complementary studs for future consideration, preferably with a greater depth of lineage and a higher score than the mare herself holds.
Foals are rated in the same manner but only in three categories: 1) conformation and correctness; 2) swing (rhythm), elasticity, and athletic ability of movement; and 3) type and overall impression. Foals with a score of at least eight points in all three criteria and depth of parentage are awarded a premium rating; foals with high scores but less proven bloodlines will be given the title of foal of distinction.
The two young prospective stallions tested in August were athletic and bold. While GOV official Anna-Marie Damm encouraged one young stallion to wait for another year of maturity to retest, she was happy to invite the next impressive stallion to the under-saddle tests in the future. All horses at the KVF inspection will hopefully go on to become competitive jumper and/or dressage prospects, proving to have the athletic versatility and bold, keen temperament typical of this non-typical breed of sport horse. AB
ABOVE: Mare and foal are compared to each other to determine whether the pairing of the mare and stallion produced a foal of greater quality than the mare, thus improving the breed standard. BOTTOM LEFT: Of the five foals presented at the Klondike Victory Farms inspection in August 2022, there was one premium foal, Circe out of Cedira by Casiro by Balounito pictured left, and two foals of distinction. BOTTOM RIGHT: Horses approved as breeding stock through Oldenburg inspections are entered into the studbook and can re ceive a brand on their hip, a distinct “O” bearing a crown, although the Oldenburg registry has moved toward micro-chipping rather than traditional branding. The GOV has always made room for new traditions that come with changing times, a trait that has served the breed well over five centuries.
The cost of living is high in every category and, let’s be honest, add hobbies – or horses – to the budget and it’s easy to see the end of the money before the end of the month. Kathleen Iles of Calgary is the owner and operator of The Tack Collector, a thrift and consignment centre for horse equipment and riding clothing. Here are some of her best tips for stretching your equestrian dollars.
BY JENN WEBSTERThe Tack Collector in Calgary, Alta, has been in operation since 2006 and this unique business offers a perfect solution for equestrians looking to make their riding costs more affordable. Considering themselves specialists in tack consignment, the store features an inventory comprised
strictly of second-hand equipment. With over 2,500 square feet of space, there are many bargains to be found here on everything from blankets, to bits, to riding clothing.
“It’s easy to justify the amount of money we spend on our horses,” says Kathleen Iles, owner and proprietor
of The Tack Collector. “Yet, the number of people who buy new –at very high prices – still blows me away, as there are many alternatives these days.”
In this Q & A, Iles gives us some of her best tips for stretching our equestrian dollars.
A. Helmets should always be purchased new, with tags attached, and should be checked for soundness. Even in new condition there are occurrences (fortunately very infrequently) where the helmet may have been dropped or damaged from a variety of situations between manufacture to customer. A visual inspection should be performed to check for any deep scratches, small dings, and rubs on the outside (and inside, if it has a removable lining). You should also do a “light squeeze/pressure test” with both hands on the helmet – just enough to feel some movement from the brow and back, and on both sides to help determine if it’s still sound, or just looks good. If there is a weakness from a crack you cannot see, you may feel a slight difference on one side or the other.
Also the lining should have the new “from-the-box-smell,” to avoid it being a second-hand helmet that has been well cleaned up. Used helmets are not recommended to purchase or use, particularly older ones that do not follow current safety standards. That being said, if a used helmet is the only option for a current situation, it is better to wear that used helmet over riding with no helmet at all. An extra diligent review of the overall helmet condition is recommended before use, with regular soundness checks and the intention of replacing it with a new helmet as soon as possible.
Q. When does a purchase become more about “fashion,” as opposed to “function?”
A. Fashion is a part of riding, whether you are in fashion or make your own fashion. Based on the importance of wearing safety equipment, fashion and functionality are completely intertwined and there are many opposing opinions. Manufacturers have done a good job of maintaining enjoyable fashions within the lower price ranges, without lowering safety standards, so you can safely ride without breaking the bank. Wearing a helmet that follows current safety
standards, that fits well and is enjoyable to wear for long periods, should be key. The helmet warranty program some higher-priced helmets have is a nice program to take advantage of, in the event a helmet is damaged. In this case, it can potentially justify the higher purchase price.
Q. What do you think about the old saying, “Good products will be worth their weight in the long run?”
A. I definitely agree with that saying. When it comes to riding tack and equipment, it’s the polar opposite of safety standards (as compared to those for helmets). There appears to be zero safety standards with riding tack and equipment. I find this amazing, considering most riders take it for granted that all pieces of equipment are created the same and automatically keep us safe.
I spend a lot of time detailing the very minor, negative conditions of tack and equipment for safety reasons, to make people aware of weak areas. Not every new piece of tack is equal and the quality of the materials and the craftsmanship is reflected in the prices for most. The cheaper items tend to use stiffer/sharper nylon, stiff/rigid leather hides, and all tend to either break sooner or wear very poorly. Understandably, you may not want to spend a bunch of money on a horse you only have for the summer, or
a pony being brought along to sell, etc. However, many times a good quality piece of used tack will be the same price as the new, poorer quality item and when you’re done with it, it will be easier to resell. Quality usually wears better and keeps its value if it’s taken care of – even marginally. It is easy to get into expensive tack and equipment, based on brand and the materials they use. Their biggest difference is the preparation (oiling/softening) they do on an already nice piece of leather. A lot of mid-range tack can achieve the same condition these more expensive brands come with at purchase, by doing regular maintenance yourself (including oiling). Unfortunately, we find a lot of the very low-end leather cannot be maintained and oiled into a softer/stronger product, as the initial hides used were so poorly prepared to start with.
Although they are neither clothing nor equipment, blankets are also a very good example of this concept. There is a big difference between materials (fabric strength, fill, and hardware strength) in the lower priced blankets. Higher quality blankets tend to hold a higher resale value much longer, as long as they aren’t overly abused. They will take more of a beating than the others, but obviously they are not completely immune to barbed wire, or being in with a bunch of playful/ destructive two-year-olds. You might not want to spend a bunch of money on blankets in situations like that.
Q, English riding boots seem like something you can’t really get around, especially if you want a safe product… but they are costly. Would you agree? Any tips for beating their high cost?
A. I completely agree that both crafts manship and leather quality affect pric es and comfort. When kids are growing and their interest in the sport is just beginning, it is tempting to get them lower priced boots. Unfortunately, a lot of these boots do not fit most kids well in the foot, inner heel, and ankle. As we spend more time walking than riding, foot pain can make them not want to ride for too long. Finding a bet ter quality boot (which can cost about the same or more than the newer, stiff boot) tends to make the entire experi ence more enjoyable. Quality brands also tend to keep their resale value with some regular cleaning and polishing, whereas the lower quality boots see a steep, declined resale value based on the extreme cracking and rubbing they can receive. In the end, the lower priced boots tend to suffer a significant drop in resale value by comparison.
Q. What do you think about buying riding clothing off Kijiji? Or Craigslist?
A. And Facebook Marketplace. All good sources. Buyer beware though.
Q. Do you think judges notice the difference between high priced clothing and bargain buys?
A. When it comes to splitting between ribbon choices – especially when many rounds are the same – judges look at rider presentation. Bargain buys, as far as used/pre-loved clothing goes, have a huge variety of prices based on brand, age, condition, current colors, etc. A lot of higher priced brands will, again, be about the same as the new store price. Unfortunately, a lot of bargain priced jackets do not have the same quality materials, cut, or sewing. This means a lot of the bargain jackets, shirts, and breeches tend to have one shape – which does not flatter most riders. It is tempting to purchase show jackets (especially for growing kids) on the bigger side, however, the down side is that the material can hang quite
heavily, with a looser fit. This results in a sloppy look, versus the fitted, tidy presentation the judges are looking for.
Q. Now let’s talk about western show outfits… With all the rhinestones and bling, many are custom made pieces. Do you carry these items?
A. We do carry these in the shop, but generally just shirts and full outfits for kids. These tend to be the harder ensembles to sell, compared to English outfits. There are so many more fashion criteria that the western judges look for with current colors, styles, and bling in western disciplines. Chaps will hold their value well, and the clothing tends to keep a decent resale value based on brand. The biggest price issue is the age of the items, as that can devalue them fairly quickly. The American eBay website has some of the best selection and there are several convenient shipping center companies now that can facilitate using US shipping addresses, for sellers who will not sell to Canada.
Q. What do you think of the bargain-priced riding products that come from some specific equestrian stores?
A. There aren’t really a lot of positive things to say about generic brands. Kid’s clothes tend to be outgrown before they become an issue, however, the bigger sizes for older kids/adults do have fabrics and fits that don’t last and we see a lot of seat-seam holes.
Q. In the end – if you’re on a budget – how would you advise people to spend their hard-earned money these days, on top of the high price of groceries (and the cost of living)? Especially when lessons, training, farrier and veterinary care, and show fees and board, etc. are all important too…
A. Look for quality, used items over purchasing new, cheaper items. The used may cost more initially than the new, but in the end it will maintain its value if cared for, and therefore, retain a decent resale value. It will also last longer based on the initial, good quality.
Q. Any other tips for really stretching your dollars when it comes to buying riding clothes?
A. Check out the clearance racks, online and in-store. Check out consignment shops. Look for the mid to high-end brands in good, clean condition. Like grocery shopping, be aware of current regular prices in store and online. When online shopping (especially in the UK and the US), be sure to calculate shipping and evaluate return policies and potential duty and taxes (which are sometimes applied) before committing to the sale. There are a lot of online shops in the
Europe and the US where the items are initially quite a bit cheaper to purchase – and may not even be something you can purchase in Canada. The shipping costs, once converted, can be high. Duty and taxes may be decent as retailers usually have a company/bulk rate with the big shippers, but if the item doesn’t fit, you need to be confident you can sell it locally. Usually it’s very expensive, or not worth your while to ship it back. Combine orders with others in your barn family to split those extra costs.
To help realize better resale prices and appeal to most judges, purchase the mid to high quality materials and craftsmanship. Keep the clothing patterns simple and basic. Keep items clean and in good repair.
Keep active in your barn community. As kids outgrow clothes, purchase them from other parents, or purchase items from other riders. Consign items no longer needed and use the funds towards updating and upgrading. AB
As the risk management partner for the AEF and its members, our team at CapriCMW gets asked many questions about the insurance we deliver to the diverse equine community in Alberta.
Of the many products and services we provide, the included personal liability coverage remains the most discussed. In the minds of many, this represents one of the most important components of our offering.
With fall already here, we have turned a good part of our attention to our 2023 service to the members. The following represents frequently asked questions about the personal liability insurance, and I hope you find this information, along with information we have on the AEF website, useful. If this article leads you to ask more questions… let us know – we have answers!
Does this liability policy cover me, as the member, for the horses I own?
ANSWER: As a member in good standing of the AEF, YOU THE MEMBER are covered for liability that could be imposed upon you if a horse you own, lease, or borrow causes bodily injury or property damage to a third party and you are held legally responsible for the damages caused.
Does it matter how many horses I own or what I do with them?
ANSWER: The policy covers any number of horses owned, leased, or borrowed that are being used for personal purposes and provides protection regardless of where the horses are – world-wide.
What is the difference between “commercial” use and “personal” use?
ANSWER: If there is compensation or trade in-kind being provided for the use of the horse, it may be deemed commercial use. For example, using the horse to give someone else riding instruction or pony rides for a fee, or short term rental of the horse to someone else, are only a few examples of commercial activities. We encourage you to ask us if you are unsure if the use of your horse will be covered.
ANSWER: The liability policy provides $5,000,000 coverage per member.
Does the policy cover me when I compete at a horse show and why does the show manager care if I have insurance?
ANSWER: The insurance provided to you as a member of AEF protects you when you attend at a horse show, clinic, etc. (any number of events, anywhere in the world). The show manager / sanctioning authority / host requires that all participants have personal liability insurance in place as a means to defer and share risk. Because the AEF membership insurance program is broad in scope and well known, most hosts now mandate that membership be in place.
I don’t show my horse; why is this liability insurance so important?
ANSWER: The reality is that the majority of horse owners do not show or compete – they simply enjoy recreational pursuits with their horse at the farm, on a hack, trail ride off-site, etc. This policy is in force 24 hours a day, seven days a week –anywhere in the world. Our decades of claim experience tell us that serious incidents can occur anywhere, anytime.
In summary, everyone who rides, drives, or enjoys horses as a part of their lifestyle should be a member and take advantage of the insurance provided through membership in AEF –throughout the year. This is so much more than “horse show coverage.”
At CapriCMW we are constantly working on improvements to the membership program. If you have questions, suggestions, or comments please contact us.
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ML Equine Services ml-equine.ca
Moose Mountain Horseback Adventures packtrips.ca
Paradise Acres Ranch paradiseacresranch.net
Purina Canada equipurina.ca
Rafter Six® Ranch raftersix.com
Ride Fit Equestrian ridefit.net
Riding Out of Your Mind Equestrian Sport Psychology ridingoutofyourmind.com
Rivers Edge Camping Association riversedgecamp.org
Rocking Heart Ranch Ltd. rockingheartranchltd.com
Rocking Star Ranch Equine rockingstarranch.ca
Royal T Equestrian Inc. royaltequestrian.webs.com
Southpaw Creations southpawcreations.ca
Summer Sonnett Stables facebook.com/summersonnetstables
Sunglade Ranch Ltd o/a BioEquine.com bioequine.com
Take Off Equestrian takeoffequestrian.com
Takoda Equine Therapy takodaequinetherapy.com
TD Equine Veterinary Group tdequinevet.com
Telsec Farm Company telsecfarms.ca
The School of Equine Massage and Rehabilitation Therapies equinerehab.ca
The Tack Collector Ltd. thetackcollector.ca
Tyrrell Riding Academy Inc. tyrrellridingacademy.com
Vulcan View Ranch and Riding Arenas facebook.com/vulcanviewranch
Western Horse Review westernhorsereview.com
Whispering Equine Bodyworks Inc. whisperingequinebodyworks.com
Whitemud Equine Learning Centre Association welca.ca
Wyld Horses, Inc. (o/a Clip Clop) clip-clop.ca
