Alberta Bits Winter 2023

WINTER 2023

The Wonderful, Whimsical

Shetland Pony

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WINTER 2023; VOLUME 16, ISSUE 4

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.

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, 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.

AEF BOARD OF DIRECTORS Contact: board@albertaequestrian.com PRESIDENT Sandy Bell PRESIDENT-ELECT Jason Edworthy SECRETARY Jennifer Dimopoulos TREASURER Nicolas Brown INDIVIDUAL Mary Bell INDIVIDUAL Patrick Buffalo INDIVIDUAL Claire Goddard INDIVIDUAL Brooke Hartwick INDIVIDUAL Edna Kaiser INDIVIDUAL Cailin Kopetski INDIVIDUAL Brenda Spanier INDIVIDUAL Kate Wood

AEF STAFF

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Sonia Dantu execdir@albertaequestrian.com 403-253-4411 ext 5

MEMBERSHIP

Jessa Arnold membership@albertaequestrian.com 403-253-4411 ext 6 OFFICE COORDINATOR

Norma Cnudde info@albertaequestrian.com 403-253-4411 ext 1

PROJECT AND EVENT COORDINATOR

Gavin Pearson competitions@albertaequestrian.com 403-253-4411 ext 4

SPORT AND RECREATION MANAGER

6 PRESI DENT ’S MESSAGE 6 EX ECUT I VE DI RECTOR’S MESSAGE 8 BI T S & PI ECES The 2023 Live Outside the Box winners!!

Karina Fernandes coaching@albertaequestrian.com 403-253-4411 ext 3

T S & PI ECES 1 0 BI Introducing the newest honorary AEF lifetime member and meet our next

Kenda Lubeck marketing@albertaequestrian.com 403-253-4411 ext 2

IN MEMORY Remembering the legendary Stanley (Stan) A. Cowley.

COMMUNICATIONS AND ENGAGEMENT MANAGER

FINANCE

Johanna Nimchuk finance@albertaequestrian.com 403-253-4411 ext 7

OFFICE HOURS: 8:30AM TO 4:30PM, MONDAY TO FRIDAY, EXCEPT HOLIDAYS Closed December 25, 2023 - January 5, 2024 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 • Monique Noble • Kenda Lubeck CONTRIBUTORS

Cindy Cook Elizabeth Eddington Kevin Flynn Tania Millen Monique Noble VisitScotland Bonnie Timmons ADVERTISING SALES REPRESENTATIVES

2,000-hour Ride and Drive member.

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TRAILS As Canadians we have two options in the winter months: stay home and deal with

the cold, or head south.

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HORSE KEEPING Horse nutrition for the winter months.

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BREED PROFILE Shetland ponies are renowned for their longevity, strength and character.

24

SADDLE FITTING An honest question-and-answer session with professional saddle fitter,

Donna-Maria Bassett of Precision Saddle Fitting.

28

ASK ABOUT INSURANCE Now is the perfect time to remind members of the Alberta horse community

about the important partnership AEF has with Acera Insurance.

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CLUB & BUSINESS LISTINGS

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HOLD YOUR HORSES

Laurie Price • ldprice63@gmail.com • 403-823-0980 ADVERTISING SALES DEADLINES Spring 2024: January 25,2024

WINTER 2023

FOR A MEDIA KIT AND/OR RATE CARD PLEASE CONTACT ALBERTABITS@ALBERTAEQUESTRIAN.COM All material is copyright 2023. 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.

ALBERTA EQUESTRIAN FEDERATION

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The Wonderful, Whimsical

Shetland Pony ON THE COVER: A Shetland pony in the winter.

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Friday, Dec. 29, 2023 AEF Board of Directors call for nominations close Sunday, Dec. 31, 2023 Annual Award nominations close Thursday, March 7, 2024 AEF’s Virtual AGM 6:30 p.m.

Saturday, March 23, 2024 Stride With Us Celebration of Annual Award winners Sheraton Cavalier Calgary Hotel 2620 32 Ave NE, Calgary 4-11 p.m.

ALBERTA BITS I WIINTER 2023

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Message from President, Sandy Bell Winter is always my time for recovery, reflection, and getting ready for another year. In that spirit, I’m reflecting on my role as president of the Alberta Equestrian Federation for the past three years. My term wraps up at the next annual general meeting on March 7, 2024, so I’m feeling a little wistful and a lot grateful.

What a challenging three years for all of us! Along with the daily hassles and ordinary happenings of life, we were also impacted by a global pandemic with its uncertainties, financial hardships, wildfires and drought. Yet, we kept on going with the special tenacity of those who adapt quickly and turn challenges into opportunities.

It’s an honour to be part of an organization with people like you. Like what happens in relationships with horses, I’ve become – I’m becoming – a better person because of you travelling along with me on this particular life-changing journey.

As president, it was important to me that I strived to offer the kind of leadership that this fine organization deserves, and I think I succeeded to some measure.

It wasn’t a solo success by any means.

I’ve been surrounded by outstanding people who helped create the conditions for the servant leadership in which I believe. It’s been a collective success, from building a stronger AEF through governance enhancements, to developing an emergency fund for di-

Life-changing journey, Botswana 2012.

sasters and much in between.

Our AEF board of directors are a remarkable group who bring a vast array of skillsets, expertise, and experience to the leadership table. We are extremely fortunate to have you heading up the AEF. A special acknowledgement to our president-elect, treasurer and secretary for your guidance to me, as I thought through some issues prior to bringing them to the board.

The AEF staff are the best anywhere in Canada. I know they demonstrate leadership in their respective positions, and they offer that to other equine or-

ganizations across the country. I would be remiss if I didn’t tell you about how much your executive director means to me. I simply could not have done it without her.

It has been an active and fulfilling three years for me as your president. As always, a huge, heartfelt THANK YOU to our members, partners, volunteers and staff for your support over the past three years.

As my carriage-driving friend tells me when we part ways: look ahead, take it easy, don’t have a run-away, and see you later! AB

Message from Executive Director, Sonia Dantu In the midst of winter’s embrace, I extend my warmest greetings to each valued member of our community.

Looking back on the past year, we can take pride in the strides we’ve made, the challenges we’ve overcome, and the bonds we’ve forged within our community. Together, we have weathered storms, celebrated victories, and demonstrated the resilience that defines the spirit of our organization.

As we stand at the threshold of a new year, let us carry forward the lessons 6 ALBERTA BITS I WINTER 2023

learned, and the camaraderie built.

Our mission has been the driving force behind our successes; it will continue to guide us as we navigate the path ahead.

That is “to assist in creating a positive environment for the enjoyment of equines. Through our leadership and proactive approach, we promote, facilitate, and coordinate equestrianrelated activities for Alberta.”

Now is the time to mark your calendars for Saturday, March 23, 2024, as we invite you to join us in Calgary for

our annual Stride With Us celebration.

This is an occasion to honour the achievements of our outstanding equestrian community and revel in the spirit that defines us. Details about the event will follow, and we sincerely hope you will make plans to be part of this special event. Your presence is a testament to the strength and unity of our organization, and your support is instrumental in fostering the positive impact for which we strive.

In addition to recognizing our

Annual Provincial Award winners, we are thrilled to announce that our Stride With Us celebration will feature a very special guest speaker – Tyler Smith. An inspiring survivor of the Humboldt Broncos crash, Tyler has become a beacon of hope and a passionate advocate for mental health.

His story is one of resilience, courage, and the power of community. We are honoured to welcome Tyler to share his journey with us, offering insights that transcend adversity and underscore the importance of mental health in our lives.

Let us approach the coming months with a sense of anticipation and unity.

Whether you have been a member for years or are just beginning your journey with us, your presence is integral to the tapestry of our organization. Together, we have the capacity to create positive change, support one another, and make a lasting impact in our community.

I extend my deepest appreciation

for your continued commitment to our organization. Your passion and dedication fuel our collective journey, and I am excited about the possibilities that the future holds for us.

I also want to take a moment to express my deepest appreciation for the hard work and dedication of our volunteers, staff, and supporters. Your commitment is the foundation upon which the success of our organization rests. Together, we form a powerful force for positive change, and I am honoured to work alongside such a remarkable group of individuals.

As you share the days with your equine companions, may the sound of hoofbeats on frost-kissed trails and the nuzzle of our four-legged friends bring an added layer of delight and peace to the season. Here’s to embracing the magic of winter together, with our cherished equine friends by our side!

Enjoy reading the articles in our Winter Issue of Alberta Bits magazine,

where we’ll delve deeper into our association highlights and showcase the incredible stories within our community.

May this season be a time of reflection, renewal, and connection with those who matter most. AB

What’s coming up in the Spring

Rider Biomechanics Coach Why it’s Okay Not to Compete

BREED PROFILE The Mustang

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BITS & PIECES

GRAND PRIZE WINNERS Everything is more fun when it’s real! This past summer our Live Outside the Box (LOTB) participants dusted off their boots, got outside, and had some fun with their horses. They won some cool prizes for doing things that were fun and helped them maintain their health!

We are excited to announce the combined hours from this fun program. LOTB Buckaroos logged a total of 8,705 horse time hours, 10,779 outdoor activity hours, and consumed a whopping 18,951 healthy food servings.

Special congratulations goes out to our monthly draw winners. Each monthly draw winner received a deluxe halter and lead rope with custom halter charms.

April – Bromley Causton May – Kaelyn Kimola

June – Lincoln Fraser July – Arianna Angelstad van Elmpt

August – Jennifer Finnie September – Svea Josephson

Special thanks to our official program partner, Acera Insurance for ensuring the AEF continues to provide programs and opportunities like this to our members. All of our participants worked very hard this year, and we are extremely proud of them.

Our grand prize winners are:

PAIGE DOMBROSKY FIRST PLACE: HIGHEST HORSE TIME HOURS

Paige loves riding both horses at home and at the barn. Her favorites at home are Tracker, JR, and Vee, and at the barn her favorites are Indi and Orion. Orion is a new horse she started riding this year. Paige loves endurance riding and likes to pretend to be a crosscountry rider at home. When Paige isn’t riding horses, she participates in soccer and cross-country running at school.

Paige loves the LOTB program to keep track of the many hours she spends with horses through the summer and playing other outdoor sports.

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KYLIE DOMBROSKY SECOND PLACE: HIGHEST HORSE TIME HOURS

Kylie loves endurance riding and has a lot of favorite horses – Vee, Tobin, her pony Scotch, Dancer, and Indi. Kylie loves endurance as it is fun to ride the different trails, and enjoys time with the older girls and the horses. For fun, Kylie and her sister like to pretend to be jockeys or cross-country riders at home.

Kylie enjoys playing soccer and started cross-country running this year. Kylie likes the LOTB program as she tries to beat her sister in riding hours, but since Paige rides a lot, she knows that is challenging to do. However, Kylie and her pony, Scotch, are driving… Paige cannot drive her horses.

BROMLEY CAUSTON THIRD PLACE: HIGHEST HORSE TIME HOURS

Bromley has been riding for four years.

About a year ago, Bromley leased her first horse, Mango, who is a palomino pony and, in her opinion, the best colour of horse! Although only five when she first leased her, Mango has developed into an amazing and confident horse to ride!

Bromley enjoys riding English but about two years ago, was introduced to eventing and loves it! Bromley has also been a member of a track and field club since she was eight, and loves running just as much as horse riding. Running allows her to test her limits and makes her a more fit and healthier individual. Bromley loves the LOTB program as it has kept her active and focused on healthy living. It has been fun to track her daily exercise, time with horses and healthy food servings.

BITS & PIECES

BROOKLYN NEAL FIRST PLACE: HIGHEST OUTDOOR ACTIVITY HOURS Brooklyn was really excited to participate in the LOTB program this summer; it was a really fun way to see how much time she was spending outside and with her pony, Carlos, who is a 23-year-old Welsh.

Brooklyn and Carlos had a busy summer going to Pony Club, trail riding, and participating in the novice hunter series.

Brooklyn also did a lot of camping which she really enjoys. Brooklyn loves spending time with Carlos and can’t wait for next year as they plan to have an overnight camping trip with the horses!

CARSON FRASER SECOND PLACE: HIGHEST OUTDOOR ACTIVITY HOURS Carson likes to spend time riding Lena.

He is working on improving his western riding skills and takes riding lessons regularly. Carson curls during the winter with the Junior Curling Club. He also enjoys fishing and spending time outdoors playing with his dog. Carson enjoyed participating in the LOTB program because it gives him motivation to spend time outside being active.

LINCOLN FRASER THIRD PLACE: HIGHEST OUTDOOR ACTIVITY HOURS Lincoln enjoys riding his palomino horse, Jase. He has been participating in numerous gymkhanas this summer and has also been learning to rope. During the winter, Lincoln enjoys curling with the Junior Curling Club. He plays piano as well. Lincoln enjoys participating in the LOTB program because it motivates him to spend time outdoors and to spend more time working with his horse.

SAYA DORAN FIRST PLACE: HIGHEST NUMBER OF HEALTHY SERVINGS Saya started riding in late 2021. She has completed her western Rider Level 1. She really enjoys Western and English riding with her amazing coach, Helen. She loves jumping, trail riding, and cattle penning.

Saya loves Awenasa, as Awenasa is her favorite colour of horse – Appaloosa. In her free time, Saya also enjoys figure skating, rock climbing, learning Japanese and playing unique musical instruments (ukelele and steel drums, alongside piano).

She really enjoys the LOTB program as she finds it interesting to look back and see her progress with eating healthy foods, playing outside and horse back riding. LOTB is exciting because it encourages her to do more of the things she loves!

JENNIFER FINNIE SECOND PLACE: HIGHEST NUMBER OF HEALTHY SERVINGS Jennifer started riding when she was seven. Her favourite and most loved horse is Dunczar Thriller, also known as BlackJack. Together they participate in horse shows, 4-H, and gymkhana.

Through the local gymkhana club, Jennifer and BlackJack have learned groundwork and riding skills. This year, 4-H has taught her the basics in hunters and jumping. Jennifer loves spending time with her horses and the other farm animals. She also enjoys reading, writing, and playing badminton. The LOTB program has helped Jennifer keep track of her riding hours and motivated her to get outside and eat lots of fruits and veggies.

MYA TOOLEY THIRD PLACE: HIGHEST NUMBER OF HEALTHY SERVINGS Mya rode her first horse when she was three, started English riding lessons around her sixth birthday, and has been riding ever since! She loves horses, and this past year has been enjoying riding, jumping, and showing Zaire (affectionately known as Zaire Mare), and hacking Sammy. In addition to her time in the saddle, Mya also enjoys volunteering at the barn one day a week helping beginner riders tack up their horses, doing chores, and turning out horses. Mya enjoys the LOTB program as it motivates her to spend as much time as possible with the horses, be active outside, and eat healthy. It’s also fun tracking hours and it provides a challenge.

Live Outside the Box (LOTB) is a fun and FREE program offered to youth members between the ages seven to 15 and runs between the months of April and September every year. LOTB encourages youth to spend less time in front of electronic devices and more time outside being active and eating healthy. Less screen time and more horse time equals great rewards! Youth simply log their total activity and horse times hours and healthy servings each month for their chance to win great prizes. Sign up for LOTB when purchasing/renewing AEF memberships. AB ALBERTA BITS I WIINTER 2023

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BITS & PIECES

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RIDE AND DRIVE 2,000-HOUR MILESTONE ACHIEVEMENT CONGRATULATIONS CARMELA CROCKER! Carmela reached her 2,000-hour milestone on October 15, 2023. As a long-time member of the Ride and Drive program, Carmela rides for pleasure, with the mountains being her favorite place to ride. She enjoys the program as it gives her a goal to work toward; it acts like a log that she can look back at to remember rides and time spent with her horses. A memory that stands out the most for Carmela was swimming with her horse in Eagle Lake!

Congratulations again, Carmela, on this amazing accomplishment!

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follow us on Visit www.westernhorsereview.com and click on the subscriptions.

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NEWEST HONORARY LIFETIME MEMBER THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS ARE PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE SADIE LENZ IS THE NEWEST HONORARY LIFETIME MEMBER FOR 2024.

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Contact us for an activity book and crayons!

Phone: 403-253-4411 • Toll Free: 1-877-463-6233 Email: info@albertaequestrian.com

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ALBERTA BITS I WIINTER 2023

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IN MEMORY

Stan Cowley in the Calgary Stampede parade.

Stanley (Stan) A. Cowley 1936 – 2023 B Y J E N W E B ST E R

Born and raised in Calgary, Alberta, Stan was the second of five boys (David, Stan, Warren, Norman and Ray) to Annie and Norman Cowley. Left to carry on his legacy are his wife, Gloria and children, Cathy (Woody), David (Alanna), Thomas, Kateri (Leroy), Daisy (James) as well as his beloved grandchildren, adopted family, and many loyal friends.

The charismatic character of Stan Cowley was legendary. He had the ability to build and create endless possibilities with people and places.

With such a diverse background of life works, such as Golden Gloves boxer, avid sailor, draftsman with B.A./Gulf Oil, art instructor at Alberta College of Art (SAIT), designer and realtor with his brother, Dave, of Cowley and Keith Real Estate, actor and director, artist and illustrator of children’s books, magazines, etc., president or director of many community organizations, Alberta marriage commissioner, auxiliary RCMP, founding director of Buffalo Nations, and more... He received medals and recognition in most of his endeavors.

Daughter Kateri remembers Stan fondly as as romantic and someone who would always make time.

“He always had a story to share with you, a drawing to help inspire you and make you smile, or a kind word to encourage.

And the most amazing part is he always had time. He made time somehow. He 12 ALBERTA BITS I WINTER 2023

could make an hour disappear when you only had a few minutes. It was his Daddy superpower – the very busy man, who could make time…”

Stan’s memorial card.

She adds that this trait was truly remarkable when you look at Stan’s extensive resume.

From a very young age, Stan grew a passion for the cowboy lifestyle with the Calgary Stampede and his friends from the Indian Village.

“When Dad was a young boy, (I’m talking 1930s) back then, the First Nations needed permission to leave the reservations,” tells Kateri.

“But the Calgary Stampede granted such a permission for 10 days to celebrate the beautiful culture. As the wagons were traveling into town, Dad’s parents invited them to stay over in their back yard and would muster ALL the soup they could find, to share on the journey. Dad would jump in the wagon and spend the 10-day celebration in the Indian Village and return with the wagons on the way back.”

Stan rode in the parades with his friends and it built lifelong respect, friendships, and many valuable life lessons for him.

“One day Dad asked his Mom ‘How come you would let me go away for 10 days when I was so young, just five years old, with people you met once a year?!’” Kateri recounts.

“His Scottish mom replied ‘Stanley, when you have five boys, you’ll let the rowdy ones go too!’”

At 13 years old, Stan was taken up to a mountain top and left for three days without any food or shelter. He was told to stay, as this was his vision quest.

Although the visions were his own, Stan would share some good advice afterwards, “If you ever have to eat grasshoppers, be sure to pull the legs off first because they’ll grab you on the way down!”

IN MEMORY

Fittingly, a horse-drawn hearse carried Stan Cowley’s body in his funeral procession, while friends and family members rode in on horseback.

“His love grew. This remarkable man got better~Kateri and better.”

The Cowley family. Stan is pictured wearing a Rafter Six sweater.

After the three days he was retrieved and brought into a ceremony, where 40-year-old Chief Walking Buffalo made Stan his blood brother. It was then he was named Amigossipoki (meaning Deer Fawn, because being of Scottish and English decent, Stan had freckles all over his back). Chief Walking Buffalo gave Stan a life mission, to teach people in the words of the Walking Buffalo quote: “Consider all the different kinds and colours of trees there are in the forest… there are poplars, birch, spruce, pine, and willow. Some are crooked, some are straight. But they don’t fight with each other. They get along together just fine – they live in harmony, just as humans should.”

Throughout his life, Stan also became an Honorary Chief of the five tribes of Treaty 7. Kateri believes there is only one other man who can claim such an honour – King Charles.

Stan’s dream was always to create a Native Cultural Park in the Bow Valley, and when he first arrived at Rafter Six Ranch (Exshaw, Alta.), the realtor in

him knew he had found the best location there. He built Rafter Six Ranch Resort to share his vision and beloved family with the world.

Each one of the medals and accolades Stan achieved during his life holds a story. The most recent addition occurred nine months ago, on behalf of the Province of Alberta, recognizing Stan as an outstanding individual for his community contributions through the Queen’s Jubilee Award Medal.

Probably the most noticeable, however, were all the Calgary Stampede parade ribbons he acquired – a collection of over 80 years – which were proudly displayed in the Passing of the Legends Museum. The same moniker was also stated on the Cowley barn, overlooking the horses.

Additionally, the barn housed a beautiful display of carriages, including a vis a vis, a surrey with a fringe on top, a gig, an 1800s doctor’s cart, and a 1800s concord stagecoach. The latter was held up at gun point in Sharp Hills, Alta., and was given to Stan in 1978.

Also inside were many incredible native artifacts, including a talking stick from Chief Dan George (Little Big Man), a cooking pot and a shot maker from Sitting Bull (who took down Colonial Custer) and many gifts from his friends and his blood brother, Chief Walking Buffalo.

Stan was always a hard worker and

an entrepreneur. He began selling newspapers as a kid, then pigeons and cats – and when the family house flooded, he made the basement into a safari where he sold admission to the neighbourhood children to see the salamanders. He saved all his money and bought his first car and gave it to his father. As he grew more successful, developing high end areas of Calgary with his brother David in Cowley and Keith Real Estate, he purchased some ranches in Alberta. Then he sold one to the family, tending it for a dollar.

He loved helping people. He knew he had to share Rafter Six Ranch with the world. Many guests and tourists came to ride the trails with the Cowley family over the years.

“Dad gave me some of the best, simplest (and sometimes the most challenging) advice ever – Just. Be. Nice,” says Kateri.

“One of the most profound lessons he taught me was especially difficult when we lost the ranch in a sideways deal. He told me ‘Kateri, in every situation you have two choices. You can get bitter, or better. As your father, I hope you choose wisely.’”

Despite the last few years of battling health issues and challenges, Kateri relays that her father’s generosity and kindness grew.

“His love grew. This remarkable man got better and better.” AB ALBERTA BITS I WIINTER 2023

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TRAILS

HORSING AROUND IN THE WINTER

Rather than lamenting the loss of long summer days, try to embrace riding this winter. There are ways to have fun with your horse while waiting for spring to arrive!

As Canadians we have two options in the colder months: stay home and deal with it, or head south.

B Y TA N IA M I L L E N

TRAILS

Winter is a great time to train for new skills, or hone those you already have.

Highly competitive riders, coaches and trainers often head south with their horses and stables rather than struggle with the rain, snow, ice and slop of a Canadian winter. But not everyone has that option – most riders have to hunker down and stay home. That said, winter riding can still be fun and productive. So rather than lamenting the loss of long summer days, try to embrace riding this winter. Here are some suggestions.

1. GET THE RIGHT CLOTHES & GEAR

If you’re going to ride outside or in an unheated indoor arena, warm mitts, boots and headgear are imperative.

If you’re riding in larger boots, check that your stirrups are wide enough to accommodate them. Next, layer insulated pants and wool, fleece, or down tops over thermal underwear. Outer clothing needs to be wind and waterproof, depending on the weather.

Your horse needs to be comfortable, too. Frozen metal bits are miserable for horses, so consider riding in a halter, bitless bridle, or bosal. Quarter sheets are great for keeping their back muscles warm while riding. If you plan to do faster work, clip your horse and blanket appropriately to

reduce cool out time and the risk of colds. Blankets help maintain a horse’s topline and can reduce hay intake by up to 20 per cent, so consider whether blanketing all winter is helpful. If so, purchase blankets well before you need them.

2. WORK ON YOUR PARTNERSHIP

Winter is a great time to train new skills or hone those that you and your horse already have. Liberty is a fun way to build a stronger partnership. Regular lessons can fix problems, solidify positive patterns and develop new skills. Four days per week of exercise – riding, longeing, ponying, or groundwork – will ensure your horse maintains reasonable fitness through the winter. By committing to a schedule, you can let the program do the work without wondering what to do every day. By the time spring arrives, you’ll be pleasantly surprised at your progress.

3. BOARD AT AN ACTIVE FACILITY

It can be lonely, boring, and uninspiring to ride by yourself all the time. So even if it’s cheaper and more convenient to keep your horse at home, consider boarding at an active facility for a few months during the winter.

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TRAILS

A month or two of riding in warmer weather gives riders something to look forward to and significantly shortens what can feel like an endless cycle of snow and rainstorms.

Your riding will progress faster and there will undoubtedly be opportunities to practice or experience new activities.

Boarding may also allow you to take a holiday, hire a trainer to ride your horse, or work with an in-house instructor or coach. Plus, new friends can help strengthen your commitment to progress.

4. LEARN NEW SKILLS

If you’ve always wanted to learn to rope, jump, barrel race, ride bridleless, do tricks, play polocrosse, fling arrows with mounted archery, or something else with your horse, winter is a great time to start. Learning to learn helps riders appreciate what they’re often asking their horses to do and how difficult it can be to contort your body into different shapes. Taking lessons can also connect riders with new people and groups within the horse industry, opening their minds to different ideas and values. By learning new skills during winter, you can put them to use next year, whether that’s in competition or everyday riding.

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5. TAKE A BREAK

Winter riding isn’t for everyone. Rather than try to fit in a ride every now and then, sometimes it’s better to take a break, let the horse be a horse and come back inspired in the spring. Remember that even non-working horses need adequate hay and water, plus regular foot care. Also be cognizant that horses lose the majority of their fitness after three months of rest. So after a winter layoff, a welldesigned, gradual fitness program will be required to bring your horse back to everyday riding fitness in the spring.

6. HIRE A TRAINER

Alternatively, if finding time to ride in winter isn’t possible but you’d like to keep your horse going – or have him progress – consider hiring a trainer. Although monthly training fees can be steep, the costs of lost opportunities in the spring due to an unfit or under-schooled horse can be high, too. One way to resolve this is to ride until December, give your horse time off until the new year, then hire a

trainer for a few months. If you start riding again in March, you will have had a break of at least three months while your horse has continued their training. That small training investment will put you much farther ahead than giving your horse time off all winter.

7. LEASE OR SHARE YOUR HORSE.

Another possibility for winter is to lease or share the bills and fun of riding your horse with someone else. That reduces the number of days that you need to ride your horse, while ensuring it maintains fitness and training. Leasing also helps pay the bills, perhaps allowing you to afford the board at a facility with a heated indoor arena. Lease agreements can include a requirement to take a lesson every week with a designated instructor which ensures your horse is ridden correctly and potentially advances its training, too.

Independently owned and operated.

8. TRAVEL SOUTH

Finally, for those with flexible schedules and available vacation time, heading south to warmer climates may be an option. A month or two of riding in warmer weather gives riders something to look forward to and significantly shortens what can feel like an endless cycle of snow and rainstorms. Your horse might also appreciate basking in warm sunshine.

So even if winter isn’t your favorite season, there are ways to have fun with your horse while waiting for spring to arrive.

Winter can be a very productive time developing new skills and progressing your riding so that the next year’s riding season is your best year yet. Stay warm and enjoy the weather! AB

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17

HORSE KEEPING

The colder the horse’s environment, the more calories a horse burns to maintain its body heat.

HORSE NUTRITION IN WINTER There are several nutritional considerations to keep in mind when caring for horses during the winter.

B Y C I N DY C O OK , S E N I OR E QU I N E N U T R I T I ON C ON SU LTA N T

Winter is upon us once again, complete with bad weather and freezing temperatures. In general, horses are better able to tolerate the extreme cold easier than the extreme heat. When the temperature drops, they may need our help, especially if they spend the season outside. From a nutritional standpoint there are certain things you should do to help your horse through the winter months.

than hay, we still recommend providing additional hay during the winter months because foods high in fiber are digested in a horse’s cecum using microbial fermentation, a complex process that produces a large amount of heat and helps the horse fight the cold. Fermentation of grains, on the other hand, unlike that of fiber, does not produce much heat. Increasing the amount of good quality hay to an adult horse’s regular diet is helpful.

BODY HEAT

CONCENTRATES OF FAT AND FIBER

First, it is important to note that the energy requirements (calories) of a horse increase when the outside temperature drops. The colder its environment, the more calories it burns to maintain its body heat. In fact, some research suggests that when the temperature reaches -10 degrees Celsius, horses start burning extra calories in order to maintain proper thermoregulation1.

GOOD QUALITY FIBER

Although grains and complete feeds are higher in calories

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In some cases, adding hay to a horse’s diet is not enough and we must also consider adding or increasing concentrates. Thin horses, sick horses, old horses, mares that are lactating or in late gestation, and growing foals are all special cases that will likely benefit from an increase in concentrates. In the winter, they require a complete feed high in fiber and with added fat, especially if their hay is lower in quality.

To ensure that your horse’s diet contains an adequate amount of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, use a ration balancer such as Optimal or Equilizer.

HORSE KEEPING

It’s important to understand equine body condition, especially as our horses move into the coldest season of the year.

WATER: THE MOST IMPORTANT NUTRIENT

As winter approaches, horses may begin to drink less as the water gets cold and freezes. At this time, horses often transition from food with a high moisture content (pasturing) to a dryer diet (dry hay) which could be the root of impaction colic. Horses living outside must have access to quality water at all times as they consume approximately 37 litres per day.

If a horse consumes very cold water, its body temperature can drop, and it will have to spend a lot of energy to warm up. Even stabled horses may drink less with cold water. To prevent water from freezing in the winter, use heated buckets or troughs. Adding hot water to moisten feed, especially if it contains fiber, is another great way to get more water into your horse. Finally, monitor your horse’s water intake and check its hydration levels regularly. Including 50 grams daily (average 450 kg horse), of loose white salt (NaCl) ensures appropriate water intake.

An obvious choice to balance your horse’s ration.

MONITORING BODY CONDITION

It is important to focus on the manual component of assessing body condition from October to April or May as horses’ winter coats could be misleading, giving every animal a rather portly appearance. Every 15 to 30 days during the winter, run your hand along your horse’s body to determine the amount of fat deposits under the skin at the ribs, withers, topline and tail head, behind the shoulders, and along the neckline. For adult horses spending the winter outside, a score of six on a scale of one to nine (one for an emaciated horse, nine for an obese horse) indicates that it has the fat reserves it needs to weather the winter more easily. AB (1)Thermoregulation: The regulation of body temperature.

©2023 Cargill, Incorporated. All Rights Reserved. Purina® and the Checkerboard Design are licensed trademarks of Société des Produits Nestlé S.A. © Pam MacKensie photo

ALBERTA BITS I WIINTER 2023

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BREED PROFILE

SHETLAND PONIES The social and steadfast horses of the Scottish Isles.

B Y MON I QU E N OB L E

The mystery of the Shetland pony has persisted for thousands of years. Present on the Shetland Islands in the northern most region of the United Kingdom since the Bronze Age, how the ponies got there has long been a part of the story of the islands themselves. Were they brought there from the land of Faerie by the mischievous trows? Were they abandoned by Vikings? Whatever their whimsical background may be, Shetland ponies have become somewhat of a living legend.

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Shetlands are renowned for their longevity, strength, and character. They are, however, especially known for their independence as they continue to roam the islands to date. As composed as the ponies themselves, their keepers are not concerned about fencing the ponies in.

After all, they are on an island that rarely reaches more than five kilometres wide.

So, although the ponies may look wild, they are all owned and cared for.

The Shetland Islands are a beautiful but harsh landscape, with constant salty

ocean winds blowing over the roughhewn rocks and cliffs, with sparse vegetation and brutal winters. Winters in Shetland are not necessarily cold, but they are long, dark, and sodden – often getting only six hours of daylight, and those frequently accompanied with a dense fog.

Located between Scotland and Norway, the Shetland Islands were frequently invaded, and occasionally the scene of an unfortunate shipwreck. These events would bring new horses to the islands that would increase the genetic diversity

A true pony of the coasts, when food or tourist treats grow scarce on their eponymous island, Shetlands will be found eating and doing quite well on seaweed.

Photo courtesy of VisitScotland.

of the dense ponies living there. However, the size and refinement of the new blood would never last long on the stark landscape. The resulting progeny quickly resembled the island ponies with which the stranded equines bred.

It is no surprise that this harsh environment, and over 12,000 years of environmental evolution, created an animal as independent, smart, and hardy as the Shetland pony. With sturdy dispositions and charming personalities, Shetland ponies were found to be hardy work-

horses and, sadly, found their way into the coal pits of the industrial revolution.

Coal mines were unforgiving environments that required immense manpower up until the mid-1800s. Women and children were often found working underground until in 1842 when a law was passed that forbade all females and male children under 10 from working in the mines. The passing of this law saw a surge in the need for pit ponies. Small, hardworking, unflappable Shetland ponies were a perfect fit for the dark and cramped mine shafts. While pit ponies were generally well cared for, the harsh environment would take its toll, with many ponies succumbing to injuries, infection, and “black lung.”

The worldwide demand for coal led to a parallel demand for pit ponies, and while many types of ponies would find themselves in the mines, Shetlands lasted the longest and could pull the most. This led to the exportation of Shetland ponies to places where there were coal mines. An unknown number of ponies made their way across the sea by boat to many destinations, including North America. While working in the mines, ponies would have their dense hair coats, manes, and tails clipped as short as possible, as the mines

Shetlands are renowned for their longevity, strength, and character were humid and hot with the sweat of both man and beast. The close haircuts would allow for easier cooling and cleaning of the ponies, many of which would spend months underground in “stables” built within the mining shafts. During the age of pit ponies (the last pit pony in the U.K. was retired in 1999) there were many breeding operations to meet the demand, and not all the ponies were destined for the mines. Many of them made their way into the homes and hands of delighted children.

The popularity of the Shetland led to many being interbred with other horses; consequently, the United States and Canada now have their own versions of Shetland ponies. Although they deALBERTA BITS I WIINTER 2023

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BREED PROFILE

Working eight to 10-hour days, pit ponies would be subjected to various slings to be hoisted and lowered in mine shafts and asked to haul close to 30 tonnes of coal per day. Pit pony in New Aberdeen, N.S., in August 1946.

Photo courtesy of National Film Board of Canada/Library & Archives Canada.

scended from the U.K., Shetlands adapted to their environments much like their ancestors originally adapted to the Shetland Islands.

To be registered, traditional Shetland ponies may not exceed 42 inches at the wither. Dense bone and strong muscling combined with a short, compact body make for one of the strongest equine breeds, pound for pound, in the world.

Shetlands have thick, stocky legs with comparatively short cannon bones and large hooves. Their bodies, though small, are broad and deep for their size and covered in a thick double coat capable of withstanding the harsh, briny winds of their homeland. Mounted on strong, short necks, their heads are small with expressive and wide set eyes. Their ears are also diminutive but alert and active.

Crowned with thick, feral manes and tails that move in the slightest of winds, everything about a Shetland pony is animated.

With a spring in their step and swift minds, Shetlands are friendly, curious, 22 ALBERTA BITS I WINTER 2023

and highly intelligent, which may be one of the reasons they have a bit of a reputation for merriment and devilry. Quick to get into anything (especially in search of food), a keen eye must be kept on a Shetland as they do not require a lot of food

An incredibly hardy and resilient breed, Shetlands can live up to 30 years of age. and can be prone to fatten and founder on rich feed and grass.

This hardiness is one of the reasons why Elizabeth Eddington of Heste Shet-

lands in Busby, Alta., keeps her ponies in dirt pens for most of the year – although she says when they do get to play in her yard, they are quick to also try and get into her house.

Eddington started breeding Shetland ponies about six years ago, after buying her first at a driving competition. While Eddington started her breeding program with Canadian Shetlands, she was thrilled to add a couple of young Shetland ponies directly from the U.K. in 2019 and incorporate their blood to her breeding program. Eddington explains the differences in North American Shetlands as compared to British ponies.

“It’s hard because there are two breeds, and they are almost two different (North American) breeds, now carrying the same name (Shetland ponies) – Canadian and American. That’s because they (American Shetlands) have that Hackney, Welsh, action-bred influence,” she says. “They tend to be much lighter and very showy down there. They’ve got the

BREED PROFILE highest action as to how they move, and their ponies are much taller. The British Shetland is 42 inches, the Canadian is up to 44 inches, and I believe the Americans are now 46 inches.”

Eddington believes that while more American ponies are being used for inhand showing, Canadian ponies, which maintain the shorter and bulkier characteristics of the traditional Shetland, are more versatile and can still be used for driving and riding. The most striking difference between Eddington’s Canadian Shetlands and the Shetlands from the U.K. is that the British Shetlands have wider heads, heavier bones, and incredible coats.

When they were yearlings, Eddington brought her British Shetlands to meet her friend and fellow pony lover and breeder, John Peterson, who was part of the inspiration behind her dream of importing the ponies. Eddington, from the U.K. herself, relates how Peterson never thought he would meet a Shetland pony directly from the island itself. She describes the moment as a very exciting, sweet, and enlightening experience.

Says Eddington, “I took the ponies over to visit him in the spring when they were yearlings. And you know, never, never in his wildest dreams did he imagine that he would meet a British Shetland. He put his hands on them, and he buried his fingers into their coats. Just buried them and worked his way in and he said, ‘That’s what’s missing … It’s the coat. It’s the coat!’”

Eddington echoes her friend’s sentiments about the ancestral coat, “It’s so deep and so thick.”

Even without the addition of other breeds such as Welsh and Hackney ponies being bred with Shetland stock, the ponies have adapted to their change in environment. Canadian winters are cold but tend to see more daylight and are much dryer than winters on the Shetland Islands. There is also much more food and shelter available, allowing the ponies to have lighter coats and more length of bone, which would make Canadian Shetlands taller than their ancestors but still just as strong and versatile.

Over time, Shetland ponies have gained a somewhat questionable reputa-

Shetland ponies display all coat colours and patterns except spotted coats. This striking filly Clibberswick Come Dee We Wiz (Dundee) was imported to Canada in 2019.

Photo courtesy of Elizabeth Eddington.

Shetlands can live up to 30 years of age. Due to their longevity and intelligence, some have become very successful guide ponies and now help people with impaired vision. Here Scatness Jasmine of Heste Shetlands is visiting with an elderly companion during a visit to a care home.

Photo courtesy of Elizabeth Eddington.

tion, but Eddington insists that true Shetlands are quite friendly. However, like any pony – or horse – they need to be trained and handled properly to be good citizens.

Without proper guidance, they will get into trouble, and they will take you down with them! The Shetland’s propensity for remembering things can make a mishandled pony a troubled and concerning soul. Well-handled ponies will take you

to better places. Excellent in hand, under saddle, or in harness, well-trained Shetlands are talented and willing, and can be seen in the ribbons at cowboy challenges or driving competitions. They can also be found in youth riding competitions, which is where Eddington believes the future of the breed lies. A future perhaps less mysterious than their past, but just as certain and entertaining. AB ALBERTA BITS I WIINTER 2023

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THE IMPORTANCE of SADDLE FITTING Saddles should fit both the horse and the rider. When it comes to this topic, you can’t just “make do.” Professional Donna-Maria Bassett specializes in numerous disciplines and hard-to-fit horses.

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

Saddle fitters work with conformational issues and balancing of the saddle and they need to have knowledge of fitting the rider.” ~ Donna-Maria Bassett

Donna-Maria Bassett owns and operates Precision Saddle Fitting, based in southern Alberta. She services barns all across Canada, as well as the United States, in-person or virtually. Bassett specializes in fitting difficult and hardto-fit horses. She is also one of only five saddle fitters in Canada who is a Society of Master Saddlers (SMS) Qualified Saddle Fitter. The SMS Certificate 24 ALBERTA BITS I WINTER 2023

in Saddle Fitting is the worldwide qualification for saddle fitting with verification and monitoring by an independent educational body. Unlike many other saddle fitters trained by one company on their particular brand of saddle, Bassett is qualified to work on any brand of English saddle.

We had the opportunity to ask her several questions about saddle fitting.

Here is what she had to say.

Q – Can you please tell me more about your training?

Bassett – I did an introductory saddle fitting course in the United States with the SMS in 2010. I also stayed for the saddle flocking course. I then had to mentor for three years with an SMS

Qualified Saddle Fitter.

During this time, I travelled to work with my saddle companies. I learned about their models, types of leather, and how they work on and reflock their saddles. I wanted as much experience as I could get flocking and servicing saddles before working on client saddles.

In the summer of 2013, I travelled home to the U.K. to take the SMS Qualified Saddle Fitting Course. This was a four-day course and if you passed the written exam, you continued onto the next day to complete the practical part of the exam. I passed with top marks!

Q – I understand that your training makes you unique, in that you are qualified to work on any brand of English saddle. Why do you believe other saddle fitting training institutions don’t allow this?

Bassett – This is a difficult one, in the respect that I have different views.

I personally believe in being educated and qualified in your chosen career.

However, some saddle companies believe that training people to fit only their saddles is justified. So technically, they are representatives of the saddle company. This not only limits their knowledge of other saddles, but also on fitting to horses.

I struggle when people tell me their saddle was custom ordered, but no templates of the horse were taken. You really need a thorough knowledge of all saddles, including different trees and panels. You need to understand the anatomy of the saddle. Also, you must also have a thorough knowledge of horse breeds and conformation to help you fit saddles to many types of horses.

Saddle fitters work with conformational issues and balancing of the saddle and they need to have knowledge of fitting the rider. Every person’s build is different, similar to horses. You must be able to fit them together. I see so many saddles that simply do not fit the riders, which affects the horse and results in saddles that just do not fit.

Bassett brings a number of saddles out to clients with her, so they can be tried on the horse.

Q – Do you fit saddles for all breeds of horses?

Bassett – Yes I do. You really need to understand all types of horses and the different breeds, as not all saddles work for all breeds. You need saddle options.

For example, trees and panels need to work with the horse’s conformation to enable proper biomechanics of the horse.

Q – Are there certain disciplines you fit for?

Bassett – The disciplines I fit for include dressage, jumpers, hunters, working equitation, eventing, trail riding, endurance, saddle seat, side seat, and Pony Club. I also fit western saddles.

Q – Do you have specific steps that you go through to properly fit a horse? If so, can you please detail them?

Bassett – Yes there is a specific order to fitting a saddle. The first step is to establish what the client and horse need. I ask questions to find out what type of saddle the client is looking for, the height and body type of the rider and horse, the horse’s breed and the client’s budget. This helps me to know what saddles or other products to take with me for my first visit.

The next step is to book an appointment.

At the appointment, I assess the horse for any soreness, etc., whilst asking relevant questions about the horse.

Does the horse have any struggles, ALBERTA BITS I WIINTER 2023

25

Bassett prefers to take templates and photos to study the horse’s structure – to discover the perfect saddle fit.

weird behaviour, or lameness, and do they receive body work? And when was the farrier last out?

Templates are taken on the horse’s structure. Some saddle companies want to know the structure of the whole back. I also take photos of the horse.

We then try saddles on the horse. I love to educate my clients as I feel it benefits us both, and I firmly believe it helps for future fittings. I explain what I see and why it works or doesn’t work.

We then try on the saddles we have selected.

I also work slightly differently from many other fitters, as I believe in shimming for asymmetries to allow the horse and rider to work more effectively.

Shims help to fill a gap between the horse’s back and the saddle to support the muscle and temporarily adjust for a better fit. They are only temporary though, as the idea is to enable the horse to develop more muscle and level out.

26 ALBERTA BITS I WINTER 2023

I then have the client ride in the saddles. During this part, I assess both horse and rider. For the horse, I look at how it reacts as it’s led into the arena. I see what it is like at the mounting block and how the horse walks away in the first few strides. This gives me an idea of how the previous saddle worked.

You can read a lot from the horse at this point. I look at how they move. I see if there is an active swing through the body and watch the hind end to see if they are pushing through to the front.

If the hind end can work effectively, this in turn will help the horse lift through its back and results in even contact. I see how the shoulders are moving and if there is tension in the mouth. This is so important to assess correctly.

I assess the rider during this time as well. I see how they are sitting and how their legs are hanging. If the rider is a jumper, I make sure their stirrups are set to jump length as this can affect the flap length and projection. I also

ensure they can transition into twopoint position and carry out their job effectively.

Depending on the level, dressage riders must be able to carry out the movements effectively and sit quietly into the saddle.

For all disciplines, I confirm that the seat or blocks are not restrictive. I also check that the horses can do their job effectively as well.

Saddles must fit and work for both the horse and the rider. It cannot work for just one alone. Biomechanics play a very important role as you are connecting two dynamic, moving beings together with a saddle. If one cannot work correctly, it will create issues such as gait changes or soreness, etc.

Once we have done this part we run through the pros and cons of each particular saddle. If the client is ordering a saddle, we go through the customization part. If the client is buying a saddle from stock, I make sure the half pads, etc. are correct.

Next, we finalize the invoice.

Afterwards, I always like to do a 30hour ride assessment (in a new saddle) as during this time, the horse can change, and I also check saddle pads and flocking.

Q – Are your services mostly utilized to help riders find saddles for new horses they just purchased? Or assess badlybehaved horses (which a rider suspects is caused by a poor saddle fit?) Or other..?

Bassett – As an independent, I work on all brands and types of saddles. I have ridden many different types of disciplines and have knowledge in each – of what both horse and rider need. I sell new, ex-demo, and preloved saddles. I have a loyal clientele who I service one or more times a year. This includes other provinces and the U.S. Sometimes people contact me when they are experiencing behavioural or lameness issues, and in some cases I can help them with their existing saddles. I am extremely honest and will always advocate for the horse

and rider. Sometimes it can be a tree or flocking issue. Unfortunately, with foam I have to deal with half pads and shims.

When working with a new client or someone new to owning a horse, I run through everything for them.

I let them know what they need and what will work best for the horse and rider. And I always try to stick within the budget, but I also offer payment plans. My goal is to provide a solution that benefits both the horse and rider.

If we’re dealing with a young horse, I may try to go with a saddle that can be adjusted, depending on budget.

However, just because it is adjustable, doesn’t mean it will work for the horse as it ages.

Q – I read on your website that you also offer reflocking and tree adjustments. If you don’t mind me asking, how do you do this onsite?

Bassett – Reflocking and adjustments can be done onsite with the horse and rider. If it is a complete reflock, however, I bring the saddle to my workshop and do it on my bench – this is because it takes a few hours.

For adjustments, some saddles, such as the Thorowgood, Kent and Masters, Fairfax, and Hastilow can be done onsite, as they have interchangeable gullets. Some wooden-treed saddles can be adjusted with the tree on a press that I have.

I have to bring Erreplus and Tech 1 saddles back to my workshop, as they are heated, adjusted, heated again, and then left to cool. Adjusting wooden or plastic/heated trees is not easy, and the person carrying out the task should be properly taught how to do so.

On all saddle fits I assess the balance, tree, and flocking. Reflocks are to rebalance the saddle.

Q – If there was one thing you’d love to tell the general public about the importance of saddle fitting, what would it be?

Bassett – Saddles should fit both horse and rider. You can’t just “make do.” If you are uncomfortable in the saddle, that will affect how your horse is performing. Riders should have their saddles checked regularly.

Understand the knowledge and the experience of the person carrying out the saddle fitting. Some are only trained in one saddle brand. If you own, or are training a young horse, you must ensure the saddle fits; you don’t want to wait until the horse is older.

This can cause all sorts of issues such as soreness, unwanted behaviour, and difficulty under saddle.

For more information about Donna-Maria Bassett and Precision Saddle Fitting, check out www.precisionsaddlefitting.com. AB

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27

ASK ABOUT INSURANCE

A new year is just around the corner, so this is a perfect time to remind members of the Alberta horse community about the important partnership the Alberta Equestrian Federation (AEF) has with Acera Insurance.

Our service in Alberta and relationship with AEF goes back many years and, over time, the insurance program associated with membership has evolved as the needs of members have changed.

Today we offer a variety of risk management services and insurance products that are all designed around lifestyles that include horses.

Here’s a quick refresher.

Insurance that is included in the membership fees paid to AEF. a) $5,000,000 Personal Liability insurance that covers the member for any number of owned, borrowed, or leased horses used for personal purposes. b) $40,000 Accident Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) that covers the member for serious permanent injury (or death) arising from an interaction with horses. Please note there is no coverage for fracture or dental injuries.

The coverages above are in force anywhere the member is – worldwide.

As a member of AEF, you also have access to some terrific optional insurance products that enhance the value of membership: a) $75,000 Optional Accident Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) to broaden the AD&D policy provided automatically with membership (in addition to higher limits, this policy provides limited benefits for fracture and dental injuries). b) $10,000 Members Tack covers tack and equipment from loss or damage anywhere in North America. This does not 28 ALBERTA BITS I WINTER 2023

cover clothing or protective equipment worn by riders, wear and tear, abuse, mysterious disappearance, or horse drawn vehicles. c) $10,000 Members Named Perils covers the death of an owned horse arising from fire, lightning, transport, and more. d) $2,500 Equine Emergency Life Saving Surgery provides coverage for your own horse(s) in the event your horse requires emergency life saving surgery which is necessitated by accident or sickness, including colic surgery and fracture surgery. e) Weekly Accident Indemnity is an exclusive insurance policy that provides income replacement in the event you are unable to work due to an accident. Coverage is in force 24 hours a day, seven days a week and includes (but is not limited to) injuries arising from an equine-related incident. The policy will provide up to $500 per week in income replacement for up to 26 weeks.

(Some restrictions apply.)

Note: Optional insurance is available to Canadian residents only.

There are more details available on the AEF website. You are encouraged to take full advantage of the exclusive benefits associated with this important membership.

Like you and your horse, the partnership we have with the equine community in Alberta is very special.

Give us a call with any questions at all. We will be happy to help. 1-800-670-1877 – ask for the Agri Dept.

Michael (Mike) A. King, Partner National Practice Leader – Equine

MEMBER ORGANIZ ATIONS AS OF O CTOBER 16, 2023 T O F I N D O U T M O R E A B O U T O N E O F T H E S E C L U B S , O R T O J O I N O N E , P L E A S E C O N TA C T T H E M D I R E C T LY 4:13 Therapeutic Riding Association.................................................413therapeuticriding.com Advocates for Special Kids.............................................................. conniehjalmar@gmail.com Alberta Carriage Driving Association (ACDA)........................................ albeartadriving-acda.ca Alberta Donkey and Mule Club.........................................................albertadonkeyandmule.ca Alberta Dressage Association..................................................................albertadressage.com Alberta Equestrian Vaulting Association...........................................................vaultcanada.org Alberta Friesian Horse Association (AFHA).................................................................... afha.ca Alberta Gypsy Vanner Horse Club..................................................albertagypsyhorseshow.org Alberta Horse Trials Association............................................................. albertahorsetrials.com Alberta Morgan Horse Club........................................................... albertamorganhorseclub.ca Alberta Mounted Shooters Association..........................................albertamountedshooters.ca Alberta South Region Pony Club......................................canadianponyclub.org/AlbertaSouth Alberta Team Sorting Association................................................................albertasorting.com Alberta Trail Riding Association......................................................................................atra.ca Alberta Walking Horse Association............................................................................. awha.ca Alix Agricultural Society......................................................................alixagsociety.weebly.com American Saddlebred Horse Association of Alberta......................... saddlebredsofalberta.com Averill Saunders Vaulting..................................................................averill4canada@gmail.com Banff Light Horse Association . ................................................................................................

Bear Valley Rescue Society............................................................................. bearvalleyab.org Beaverlodge & District Agricultural Society................................................find us on Facebook Beaverlodge Pony Club....................................................... beaverlodgeponyclub@gmail.com Black Diamond Polo Club.................................................................... blackdiamondpolo.com Border Cowboy Mounted Shooters Association......................... bordermountedshooters.com Bow Valley Riding Association.................................................. sites.google.com/bvra.ca/bvra Bragg Creek Trails Association..................................................................braggcreektrails.org Busby Gymkhana Club................................................... facebook.com/BusbyGymkhanaClub Calgary and Area Alberta Dressage Association.....................................................ca-ada.com Calgary Hunt Club...................................................................................... calgaryhuntclub.ca Calgary Regional Appaloosa Club (1997)................ facebook.com/groups/231852540316722 Calgary Regional Trail Riders........................................................calgaryregionaltrailriders.com Canadian Bridlehorse Association..................................................... canadianbridlehorse.com Canadian Eventing Development Foundation........................ canadianeventingfoundation.com Canadian Registry of the Tennessee Walking Horse.................................................... crtwh.ca Canadian Sport Horse Association - Alberta Chapter............................................. c-s-h-a.org Central Alberta Adult Riding Club....................... facebook.com/CentralAlbertaAdultRidingClub Central Century Team Ropers Association................................ centurycentralteamroping.com CHARMD (Canadian Horse Association Rocky Mountain District)..canadianhorsebreeders.com Chinook Carriage Driving Club..............albertadriving-acda.ca/chapters/chapter_chinook.html Chinook Country/Alberta Dressage Association........................................................................ .................................................................. albertadressage.com/chinook/chinook-about.html Cleardale Riders Club.....................................................................sandyrich2323@gmail.com Clearwater Horse Club................................................................ cwhctreasurer@outlook.com Cochrane Horse Trials....................................................................... cochranehorsetrials.com Cochrane Roping Club......................................................................cochraneropingclub.com Cooking Lake Saddle Club........................................................... cookinglakesaddleclub.com Cottonwood Corral Association................................cottonwoodcorralassociation@gmail.com Coulee Winds Saddle Club..................................................................... kheapy@outlook.com Davisburg Pony Club............................................................... davisburgponyclub@gmail.com Dewinton Pony Club.........................facebook.com/DeWinton-Pony-Club-132952540590847 Diamond Willow Vaulting Club.............................. facebook.com/groups/1404344659580056 Dunmore Equestrian Society..............................................................dunmoreequestrian.com Eastgate Saddle Club............................................................................eastgatesaddleclub.ca Edmonton Area Alberta Dressage Association........................................................... eaada.ca Endurance Riders of Alberta...................................................... enduranceridersofalberta.com Extreme Cowboy Alberta Association................................................extremecowboyracing.ca Fort Calgary Wheel & Runner Association...................................fortcalgaryoutriders@gmail.co Friends of the Eastern Slopes................................................................................. foesa.orgm Fun Country Riding Club of Strathmore...................................................funcountryriders.com Grande Prairie Gymkhana Club........................................................ gpgymkhana@gmail.com Great Divide Trail Association..................................................................... greatdividetrail.com Greater Edmonton Polocrosse Cub...................................... greateredmontonpolocrosse.com Happy Valley Ag and Recreation Club............................facebook.com/HappyValleyAgandRec Hastings Lake Pleasure Horse Association.............. hastingslakepleasurehorseassociation.org Hay Lakes Riders Club........................................... facebook.com/groups/369030996443877 High Country Carriage Driving.................................................................................... hccdc.ca High Country Pony Club...............canadianponyclub.org/AlbertaSouth/branches/highcountry/ Irricana & District Agricultural Society...................................................... irricanaagsociety.com Journeys Therapeutic Riding Society.............................................................................. jtrs.ca Jump Alberta Society.................................................................................... jumpalberta.com Kansas Ridge Riders Club......................................................... kansasridgeriders@gmail.com Little Bits Therapeutic Riding Association................................................................. littlebits.ca Meadow Creek Vaulting Club...................................................................................... mcvc.ca Millarville Musical Ride......................................................facebook.com/MillarvilleMusicalRide Miniatures in Motion...................................................collies72.wixsite.com/miniaturesinmotion Mount View Special Riding Association.................................................. mountviewriding.com Northern Trails Riding Club........................................................... northerntrailsridingclub.com Okotoks Polocrosse Club....................................... facebook.com/groups/389241199900459 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) ................................................. pards.ca Peace Region Alberta Dressage Association (PRADA).............................albertadressage.com Peace Draft Horse Club.................................................... facebook.com/peacedrafthorseclub Peace Region Pony Club.....................................................peaceregionponyclub.weebly.com Performance Standardbreds Association..................................................p-standardbreds.org Ponoka Riding & Roping Association.............................................gofasthorses13@gmail.com Polocrosse Calgary Society...................................................... polocrossecalgary.weebly.com

Ranahan Polocrosse Club.....................................................ranahanpolocrosse@gmail.com Ridgeview Riding Club.......................................................... ridgeviewridingclub@gmail.com Rimbey Sleigh, Wagon & Saddle Club.................................facebook.com/RimbeySWSClub Robinson Outreach at Rivercross Ranch...................................................................roarr.org Rocky Mountain Gymkhana Club..................................facebook.com/groups/98954016608 Rundle Riders Therapeutic Riding Association.............................................rundleriders.com St Paul Agricultural Society.................................................................... stpaulagsociety.com Saddle Seat Canada..........................................................................saddleseatcanada.com Shortgrass Riding Club........................................................................lwaynemu@eidnet.org Society of Tilt and Lance Cavalry...............................................................................joust.ca South Country Team Penning Association................................................................sctpa.ca South Peace Horse Club..............................................................southpeacehorseclub.com Southern Alberta Trail Riders Association...................................................................satra.ca Southern Century Team Roping Association............................ southcenturyteamroping.com Spring Fling Society.................................................................................. springflingshow.ca Stone Bridge Carriage Driving Club................ facebook.com/stonebridgecarriagedrivingclub Strathcona All-Breed Horse Association...................................................... sahaalberta.com Tennessee Walking Horse Association of Western Canada................................ twhawc.com Trail Riding Alberta Conference (TRAC)............................................................... trailriding.ca Traildusters Horse Club of Smith..................................................traildustersclub@gmail.com True Grit Cowboy Mounted Shooters Association............ facebook.com/tgmountedshooters Valley Riders Saddle Club............................................................ sandyrich2323@gmail.com Valleyview & Districts Agricultural Society.............................................valleyviewagsociety.ca Vermilion Agricultural Society.........................................................................avermilionag.ca Western Canadian Wagon Train..........................................................gsissons@hotmail.com Whitecourt Horse Club........................................................whitecourthorseclub@gmail.com Wild Rose Draft Horse Association.......................................................................wrdha.com Wildrose Ranch Roping Association.....................facebook.com/groups/768551003291321 Working Equitation Canada - Alberta Region.................................................... workingeq.ca Xtreme Wild Rose Club................................................................. xtremewildrose.webs.com Youth Development - Alberta Dressage Association............................................................... ....................................albertadressage.com/youth-development/youth-development-about

BUSINESS MEMBERS 3D Paints and Quarter Horses............................................................ northernhorse.com/3d Acera Insurance Services Ltd....................................................................agri@capricmw.ca Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health..........................................................bicanadaequine.ca CAECO Ranch............................................................................................caecoranch.com Canadian Institute of Equine and Canine Body Works Ltd...................... ciecbweducation.ca Clipped N’ Ready Equine Services.....................facebook.com/clippednreadyequineservices Copper Pony Poles + Equestrian Sporting Equipment....................................copperpony.ca Creekside Equestrian Centre....................................................................................mcvc.ca Crosshair Springs Equine Services................................................. kristacritch@hotmail.com Diesel Overhead Doors Inc............................................................dieseloverheaddoors.com Digger’s Place............................................................................................ digbits@msn.com DMC Stables............................................................................................... dmcstables.com Eckwood Equestrian.................................................................................eckwoodequine.ca Equestrian Fashion Outfitters................................................ equestrianfashionoutfitters.com Equine Connection - The Academy of Equine Assisted Learning...........equineconnection.ca Equine Haven Recovery Care and Equestrian Centre Ltd...............................equinehaven.ca Foothills Horse Transport.............................................................foothillshorsetransport.com Grassroots Equine Essentials.... facebook/Grassroots-Equine-Essentials-109575231658747 Gypsy Horses of Horn Hill............................................. facebook.com/gypsyhorsesofhornhill Hi-Hog Farm & Ranch Equipment........................................................................ hi-hog.com Horse Expo Canada.........................................................................................horseexpo.ca Horse In Hand Ranch Ltd.................................................................. horseinhandranch.com Kim Penner Equine Art........................................................................ kimpenner.com/about Miles Maldaner Photography.............................................................................. milesfoto.ca Paradise Acres Ranch.......................................................................paradiseacresranch.net Purina Canada.................................................................................................. equipurina.ca Rein It In................................................................................................................. reinitin.ca Rewind Equine..........................................................................................rewindequine.com Ride Fit Equestrian..................................................................................................ridefit.net 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 Saltaire Equestrian Haus..................................................................... saltaireequestrian.com Summer Sonnett Stables............................................. facebook.com/summersonnetstables Sunglade Ranch Ltd o/a BioEquine.com........................................................ bioequine.com Takoda Equine Therapy.................................................................takodaequinetherapy.com TD Equine Veterinary Group......................................................................... tdequinevet.com The Horse Store ...........................................................................................horsestore.com The School of Equine Massage and Rehabilitation Therapies......................... equinerehab.ca The Tack Collector Ltd.............................................................................. thetackcollector.ca Ti-DOX Enviro Tek LTD............................................................................................ ti-dox.ca Tyrrell Riding Academy Inc...............................................................tyrrellridingacademy.com Western Horse Review....................................................................westernhorsereview.com Whispering Equine Bodyworks Inc..................................... whisperingequinebodyworks.com Whitemud Equine Learning Centre Association........................................................ welca.ca Wise Equestrian..............................................................................wiseequestrianrentals.net Y’Knott Ranch Inc........................................................... facebook.com/YKnottNorthAlberta

ALBERTA BITS WIINTER 2023 BE SURE TO SUPPORT OUR BUSINESS MEMBERS! THOSE LISTED IN BLUE PROVIDE DISCOUNTS TO AEF MEMBERS. VISIT OUR LIST OF EQUINE FACILITIES ON IOUR WEBSITE!

29

HOLD YOUR HORSES Nuggets of truth for people who love horses… no matter what.

B Y B ON N I E T I M MON S

LESSON 2

GETTING ON...

HOLD YOUR HORSES available on Amazon

amazon.ca/Hold-Your-Horses-Nuggets-People/dp/0761115366

With very special keynote speaker Tyler Smith, Humboldt Broncos bus crash survivor and winner of the Amazing Race Canada.

Nominations for Annual Awards close Dec. 31, 2023

Tyler is a survivor of the 2018 Humboldt Broncos bus crash, which claimed the lives of 16 others. After physically recovering, he returned to the Broncos for ten games but realized that he needed to prioritize his mental health and take a step back. Tyler is now passionate about sharing his story and being a mental health advocate. He believes in the power of connection and wants to build a lasting community focused on vulnerability and conversation.

Saturday, March 23, 2024 4–11 p.m.

Scan here to make an Annual Awards nomination

Sheraton Cavalier Calgary Hotel ALBERTA I WIINTER 2023 31 2620BITS 32 Ave NE, Calgary

Horseman’s Hot Seat Trainers Showdown Fashion Show Shopping Clinics Art Show And More!

HorseExpo.ca

April 26 - 28, 2024 32 ALBERTA BITS I WINTER 2023

Westerner Park, Red Deer, AB