Atlantic Horse & Pony

. . . COURSES ABOUT HORSES. . . THE ART OF REINING. . . WINTER HOOF CARE. . .

VOLUME 22 NO. 4

february/March february/march 2009

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In this magazine Volume 22 #4, February 2009 Tax Registration No. 127869261 ISSN 1182-5472

Atlantic Horse & Pony magazine is published six times a year. Material is protected by North American Copyright and may not be reproduced in any form without permission. Material for publication is welcome and must come with a self-addressed, postage-paid return envelope to assure return.

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Subscriptions $20 per year (includes tax), $30 (U.S. funds) outside Canada, until Mar. 31/09.

Publisher: Dirk van Loon Editor/General Manager: Anne Gray Associate Editor: Kimberly Booth Field Editor: Ceci Flanagan-Snow Advertising Manager: Trevor Kelley Advertising: Janie Smith-Clattenburg

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Tanya MacLeod Production: Angie Fredericks, Stephen Nickerson Circulation/Subscriptions: Nicole Orme Accounts: Chassity Allison Webmaster: Angie Fredericks Online Editor: Brooke Gray Correspondents: P.E.I., Andy Robb; N.S., Judith Scrimger; Nfld, Ruth Story; N.B., Vanessa Packman; Horses In Harness, Pam MacKenzie Phone: 902-354-5411, 1-877-354-3764 Website: www.AtlanticFarmer.com Classifieds by mail to Box 1509, Liverpool, N.S. B0T 1K0, or visit www.AtlanticFarmer.com AtlanticHorseandPony.com We do not sell or rent our mailing lists.

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We know that for some of you, it's early to ask you to renew, but to keep our costs, and your prices, down, we are asking you to renew now. That way we can avoid the cost, and waste, of renewal letters – and nagging.

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Taking your love of horses to school......................................................... 8 The Nova Scotia Agricultural College in Truro, N.S., offers equestrians the chance to learn business management skills geared to the equine industry.

Judith Scrimger spoke with Carolyn Crewe, coordinator and academic advisor for the Equine Studies program.

Online learning for equestrians............................................................... 10 Ceci Flanagan-Snow introduces readers to Equine Guelph (a division of the University of Guelph in Ontario), which allows horse owners to become educated in equine science without leaving their homes. This has become very popular with those who want to learn new skills but are juggling jobs and family and need to do the work on their own time schedule.

From the ground up................................................................................. 14 Farrier David Hayne offers readers advice on caring for their horses’ hooves during the cold winter months.

Big passion for small horses.................................................................... 16 Nina Linton profiles Island miniature horse enthusiast Jeannie MacLean.

MacLean was introduced to minis nearly 30 years ago and has been passionate about them ever since. She is now a well-known breeder and competitor, but still considers them pets and claims she will have them for as long as she can look after them.

Sliding into popularity............................................................................. 23 “It’s kind of like the figure skating of the equine world.” That’s how Kevin Wile put it when he spoke with Jodi DeLong about reining, also known as “the Western form of dressage.” Whatever you call it, this discipline is growing steadily both nationally and in the Maritime provinces.

Understanding umbilical hernias in foals............................................... 30 In this issue’s A Vet’s View column, Dr. Marcos Lores explains how umbilical hernias develop, the various types that can occur, and how to treat them before they become a problem. For those of you with babies on the way, this is a must read.

DEPARTMENTS: Sweepings.......................................................................................................Page 4 What’s Happening (Events)..................................................................................... 6 Horses In Harness Report...........................................................Pam MacKenzie 35 Nova Scotia Report................................................................................................ 41 New Brunswick Report............................................................Vanessa Packman 43 Prince Edward Island Report............................................................. Andy Robb 47 Newfoundland & Labrador Report..................................................... Ruth Story 51 Classifieds.............................................................................................................. 56 Directory of Advertisers......................................................................................... 58

on the cover: This mini filly, owned by Heather and David Rann of North River, N.S., takes shelter from the winter wind under a tree.

(Pam MacKenzie photo) SUBSCRIPTION FORM ON PAGE 35.

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Sweepings

New look, new offers Wow, here we are. Launched into 2009 with fetlocks flying. Horse & Pony has a new look. Brighter paper, lots of color. Around the office we have been calling it HP’s year of color. But that’s only the beginning.

You will notice that the Draft Report has gone. But not the contents or the reporter. Pam MacKenzie has taken on Horses In Harness. She will now focus – both her pen and her lens – on all sizes of horses and ponies once they are in the traces.

There is lots of focus this issue on little horses. The minis are everywhere.

Every province, every discipline. Well, almost every discipline. Is there an equivalent to barrels, reining, or dressage classes for minis? If there is, we’d like to see it; and if there is, we’ll see it this spring. There is so much going on. Every weekend is full already. Get your calendar and start marking.

And keeping you up to date is one

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of our resolves for this year. One of the ways we can do that is with our new E-subscription. With your paid up subscription, you can now add an E-sub to Horse & Pony. We will be adding content to the E-version weekly, so last minute changes or additions to events can be on your calendar more quickly. That and more. We will be adding more photos, more of just about everything. Get your subscription now.

Phone us toll-free, or go to our new website, AtlanticHorseandPony.com.

See our subscription form on page 35 for details.

You will see us at more events this year. But not at all of them. It’s just impossible to be everywhere in Atlantic Canada where there is something horsey going on. We need you to be our eyes and ears at every show, every horse trial, every conference, every event, every discipline. Not much to ask. We know you’re there. Grab your

camera, snap those pictures. Send them off to us so we can get not just the word but also the pictures out to the rest of the riders and drivers and wish-they-weres. Email Angie at dvlproduction@eastlink.ca for details on how and what format to send.

Another reason to get hold of us soon, you can use the toll-free number or go to the website, is the great prize we will award to some lucky subscriber next month. Green Diamond Equipment, the John Deere dealers in the Maritimes, are working with us to put a pressure washer in someone’s barn or tack room in early March. The winner will be drawn on March 7 at the Atlantic Farm Mechanization Show in Moncton, N.B. Subscribe now to get your name in there.

Hope we’ll see you at one of the shows. Stop by and say hi when you see our booth, or any of our advertisers’.

Tell them Horse & Pony sent you.

ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY february 2009

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WHAT’S HAPPENING Feb. 13-15, 2009: Canadian Sport Horse Association online stallion service auction. For details, phone 613-686-6161.

Feb. 14: Nova Scotia Agricultural College Rick Russell Woodsmen Competition, MacMillan Show Centre, Truro, N.S. A collegiate competition featuring athletes from across North America and including events such as chopping, sawing, pole climb, water boil, axe throw and more. 8 am to 5 pm. Just $2 at the door. For more information, contact 902-843-2923.

Feb. 23 & 25: The National Farmers Union in New Brunswick will host a presentation by Darrin Qualman, NFU senior researcher and author of “The Farm Crisis and the Cattle Sector,” free admission, everyone welcome, Feb. 23, 8 pm, Charlottetown Dutch Inn (Howard Johnson), P.E.I. (storm date is Feb. 24); Feb. 25, 7 pm, Moncton Regional Agricultural office.

For details, phone Barb Somerville, 506-2465583 or visit www.nfu.ca.

Feb. 26-28: 2009 ACORN Organic Conference and Trade Show, Truro, N.S., at the Holiday Inn. For details, phone 1-866-32-ACORN or visit www.acornorganic.org.

March 1: NSEF AGM, Sport Nova Scotia building, 5516 Spring Garden Road, Halifax.

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Contact NSEF office, 902-425-5450 or email nsef@sportnovascotia.ca.

rium, Fredericton, N.B. Phone 519-421-1189 or visit www.canamequine.ca.

March 5-7: Atlantic Farm Mechanization Show, Moncton Coliseum Complex, Moncton, N.B. Phone 506-856-9898 or email info@farmmechshow.com.

May 29-31: Can-Am All Breeds Equine Emporium, Windsor, N.S. Phone 519-421-1189 or visit www.canamequine.ca.

April 3-5: Canadian Morgan Horse Association 2009 Morgan Convention, Halifax, N.S. **CANCELLED** April 25-26: Restless Pines Gold C Horse show, Restless Pines Farm, Hammonds Plains, N.S. Contact Heidi MacInnes, 902-835-6522 or email info@restlesspines.com.

May 2-3: Equine Review 2009, Princess Louise Park Show Centre, Sussex, N.B. For information, contact Shonda Wilson, 506-384-5935 or Susan Chestnut, 506-832-3475.

May 6-8: Sport Fair, Amherst, N.S. Contact Sheila at the NSEF office, 902-425-5450, ext. 337 or email nsefmembership@sportnovascotia.ca.

May 14-17: Windsor Spring Gold C Horse show, Windsor Exhibition grounds, Windsor, N.S. Contact Julia Cecchetto, 902-757-2450 or email cecchej@halifax.ca.

May 22-24: Can-Am All Breeds Equine Empo-

June 20: Nova Scotia/Colchester Pony Club Bronze Hunter show, CNHP show grounds, Salmon River, N.S. Contact Norm Paupin, 902662-4174 or email n.paupin@ns.sympatico.ca.

June 21: Restless Pines Tournament – Gold C, Restless Pines Riding Club, Restless Pines Farm, Hammonds Plains, N.S. Contact Heidi MacInnes, 902-835-6522 or email info@restlesspines.com.

June 25-28: Windsor Summer Gold C Horse show, Windsor Exhibition grounds, Windsor, N.S. Contact Julia Cecchetto, 902-757-2450 or email cecchej@halifax.ca.

July 4-5: CNHP Bronze Dressage shows 1 and 2, Salmon River, N.S. Contact Joanne Duston, 902-895-3006 or email duston@eastlink.ca.

July 4-9: Equine massage course, Mount Uniacke, N.S. For details, call Sidonia at 1-888378-4632 or visit www.equinerehab.ca.

July 10-11: Equine chiropractic course, Mount

ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY february 2009

Uniacke, N.S. For details, call Sidonia at 1-888378-4632 or visit www.equinerehab.ca.

July 11-12: Nova Scotia Driving Society Horse Show, Central Nova Equine Park, Salmon River, N.S. Contact Hazel Brenton, 902-895-8908 or email hbrenton@ns.sympatico.ca.

July 11-12: Restless Pines Classic Gold C show, Restless Pines Farm, Hammonds Plains, N.S. Contact Heidi MacInnes, 902-835-7433.

July 19: Central Nova Horse Trials – Silver, Central Nova Equine Park, Truro, N.S. Contact Pam MacIntosh, 902-893-2042 or email pipemaker1@ns.sympatico.ca.

July 25: Gone Riding Stables Horse show, 476 Hwy 236, Scotch Village, N.S. Contact Mary Jopling, 902-757-3575.

“What’s Happening” is a free service to current advertisers and registered nonprofit groups. The commercial rate for items in this column is $5, max. 20 words.

Send notices to What’s Happening, care of HP, Box 1509, Liverpool, NS B0T 1K0.

Or, go to Events at www.AtlanticFarmer. com. For each event, include name of event, date, location, a contact person and a phone number.

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Second-year students in the Equine Studies Program, Robert Schicht of Goshen, N.S., Ashley Smith of Kentville, N.S., and Shauna Jacobs of Sydney, Cape Breton, N.S., with Program Coordinator and Instructor, Dara Pelkey-Field, take a closer look at equine head structure and teeth using a skull from one of the labs at the Nova Scotia Agricultural College.

(Judith Scrimger photos)

Taking your love of horses to school

by Judith Scrimger A crowd of about 70 high school students makes its way into a lecture room at the Nova Scotia Agricultural College (NSAC) in Truro. They are here to learn more about the Technology Diploma in Enterprise Management and

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about 20 of them are interested specifically in the Equine Studies program.

They have come from New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Cape Breton, and mainland Nova Scotia with one thing in common: a background and interest in horses – from harness racing to hunt-

ers – and they see the program at the NSAC as a way to learn the business management skills they will need to start their own equine business or find a career in the equine industry.

The diploma was established three years ago to serve the interests of stu-

ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY february 2009

dents who wanted to work in a variety of agricultural fields (e.g. dairy farming, greenhouse and nursery, equine studies) and needed education in both their specialty and basic business knowledge.

“Take a business program and study something you love.” That’s the theme of Equine Studies says Coordinator and Academic Advisor Carollyn Crewe.

“In designing the program we did telephone and personal interviews with people making their living running equestrian facilities or businesses. They came from different stages of their business life, from one who had only been open a year to people who had been in business more than 20 years,” says Crewe. “We asked them what skills they felt were necessary for someone owning/running an equestrian business.

All of them came up with pretty close to the same list.”

That list included financial planning, record keeping, accounting, human resource management, customer service, marketing, event planning, industry knowledge, and computer skills to name a just a few.

“We don’t teach horse basics. The student must have a horse background before they enter the program,” says Crewe. Each student must submit an equine competency resume that is certified by an employer, coach, trainer, club leader, or stable owner.

Sashenka Wright, 18, of Brookside, N.S., is one of the dozen students registered in the first year of the two-

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Show ring and breed photographer Crystal Fullerton (right) explains how to choose a good digital camera for equine photography to Sashenka Wright, a student in the Equines Studies program at the NSAC. Fullerton gave a presentation in the first-year Equine Industries course.

year diploma program. A hunter rider at Sherwood Stables, she says: “I see myself going the entrepreneurial route.

My goal is to become an equine massage therapist and have my own business.

These business courses have made it all seem possible. I can see myself using everything from accounting to what I’ve learned in the equine industries course.”

Ashley Smith, a second year student from Kentville, N.S., says the Equine

Industries course opened her eyes to the range of equine-related businesses. “It’s not just show barns and competitions,” says Smith.

EXPOSURE Dara Pelkey-Field, an instructor at the NSAC, who coordinates the non-credit Equine Industries course, makes sure the students are exposed to the breadth of the industry through guest speakers. On the day the high

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school students are invited to campus, the guest speaker is Crystal Fullerton, a show ring and breed photographer.

Fullerton directs her talk at the would-

be entrepreneurs.

“If you are advertising or promoting your business, you have to choose a photograph that represents your business

well.” Fullerton has plenty of examples of what she calls “page turners.”

“A poorly-composed photo may mean that your potential buyer or client

Online learning for equestrians

Another option in our technology-driven, multi-tasking society

by Ceci Flanagan-Snow Many people have an insatiable thirst for knowledge, but not all are able to attend school full- or even part-time. Work, distance from a school, financial resources, and/or family commitments may make it seem impossible to take advantage of further educational opportunities.

But there are alternatives.

Gayle Ecker, senior manager of Equine Guelph (a division of the University of Guelph in Ontario) had a vision. She said the concept stemmed from, “My frustration with the lack of educational opportunities for horse owners who wanted to be ‘educated horse owners’! Plus, online learning opens up opportunities for so many owners, who would otherwise not be able to get away. With the startup funding from CanAdapt, and the partnership with the Office of Open Learning at the UofG, I was able to develop a flexible, cost-effective learning venue for many horse owners who would otherwise not have this opportunity.

“At the end of the day, I wanted to help horse owners become educated with evidence-based information from the latest research available, and learn to use this in an applied fashion for the health and well-being of their horses. Too many horses have suffered because the owners just did not have the necessary information to help them, so this program gives opportunities for horse owners to learn about (injury and disease) prevention and (the health and) well-being of the horse.”

The Equine Science Certificate program is now in its sixth year, has won awards for innovative education, and is still growing. Students from around the world study texts and videos at home, conduct research, prepare and submit assignments, PAGE 10

and attend lectures and information exchanges online, simulating the classroom experience.

ACCESSIBILITY “Aside from Guelph’s reputation as an educational institution, the main reason I chose this program was because it was Internet-based, which enabled me to ‘attend’ without having to quit my job and move,” said Julene Warwick from Victoria, B.C. “The flexiblity that an online program offers is just fantastic.

The surprise bonus was the diversity of

Distance education is often the only viable option in people’s already packed schedules. my classmates. Egypt, Australia, Dubai, the U.S., and across Canada – the challenges of horsekeeping from all these different places really enriched the experience. It is highly unlikely I would have had the same experience from a traditional classroom setting.”

Carol Lewis, also from Victoria, said, “I learned far more and was more challenged by the online learning environment (than traditional classrooms). I agree with Julene that the diversity of the classmates, and the regional differences that affect how we deal with our animals, greatly contributed to that rich learning environment.”

“I did my online portion at 5:30 am before work – and the readings, assignments, etc., later in the day between work, chores, and life,” said Ontario’s Margaret Both. “The most interesting part of the course is that all of us have stayed friends and help each other out.

I don’t know of many ‘classmates’ that can say that.”

The program consists of four core courses that must be taken: Management of the Equine Environment; Health and Disease Prevention ; Equine Nutrition; and Functional Anatomy.

Students also select two more from a list of optional courses: Growth and Development; Exercise Physiology; Equine Behavior; and Equine Genetics.

All courses are delivered at a university/college level and participants devote an average of 10-15 hours per course per week. Each course lasts approximately 12 weeks.

According to Marjory Gaouette, manager of program development for the Office of Open Learning at Guelph, the program attracts many students from Atlantic Canada, particularly from Nova Scotia. In 2007 they had 18 students from the four Atlantic provinces, which accounted for four percent of the students registered. In 2008 the program grew by 260 students, while representation from Atlantic Canada remained about the same.

Distance education is becoming increasingly popular in our mobile, technology driven, multi-tasking society. Often it is the only viable option in people’s already packed schedules.

Many universities and colleges offer both credit and non-credit courses which appeal to people with a yen for lifelong learning.

For details on the courses, instructors, costs, and registration, follow the link from www.AtlanticFarmer. com to the Equine Science Certificate website.

(Ceci Flanagan-Snow received her Certificate in Equine Science, With Distinction, in 2004, taking her learning program with her as she moved aross the country and back again.)

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turns the page (and doesn’t even look at the rest of your advertisement),� says Fullerton. She gives the students plenty of tips on how to choose or take photos that do a horse’s conformation justice.

Equine photography is just one of the many topics that have been covered in the course. From tack shop owners to

Academic and Program Advisor for the Equine Studies program at the NSAC, Carollyn Crewe, presented a program orientation at a recent open house for a large number of prospective students from throughout the Maritimes who are interested in developing equine-related businesses.

equine specialists with feed companies, the guest speakers ensure the students get a first-hand look at the challenges of running or managing an equine-related business in the Maritimes.

The course load combines universitylevel business courses such as microeconomics, marketing, and human resources management with a number of specialty courses, e.g. equine health and nutrition, soil management, cropping systems, environmental management, and equine growth, genetics, and reproduction. A number of pass/fail non-credit courses such as public speaking and workplace readiness certificates, such as First Aid, Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS), and Occupational Health and Safety are also required.

While there is no co-op component or internship, students like Colleen Harrigan of Kentville and Natasha Cohoon of Halifax both found the coursework helpful in their summer job searches.

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Both worked in Ontario last summer, Harrigan at an event barn and Cohoon at a jumper stable. Ashley Smith worked with Agrifoods Canada. “To get the job I needed the WHMIS certification so that course was certainly helpful,” Smith says. Her ultimate goal is to establish a rehabilitation centre for Standardbred horses whose racing careers are finished.

BENEFITS Robert Schicht, a second-year student, came to Nova Scotia from Germany and has already established his own business, Korona Riding Ltd., in Goshen, N.S. “It probably would have helped if I had taken the accounting course before I set up my record system,” says Schicht. He jokes it would have saved him many expensive consulting fees with an accountant. He completed his riding instructor and horse training diplomas in Germany and now wants to master the business side of the equation. “My dream is to offer people a gentle and safe way of handling and riding horses. My goal is to establish trekking on horseback (the European equivalent to trail riding) as an alternative to shows.”

The students all enjoy the small campus atmosphere. “You know everyone on campus,” says Harrigan. “The small class size means that you do lots of projects together so you really get to know your fellow students. The faculty know you on a personal level so that’s a real plus.” About 20 students are currently enrolled over the two years.

Yearly tuition is approximately $4,000 and in the past, full-time students from Nova Scotia have received a bursary of about $700 from the provincial government. And if a student decides they would like to go beyond the diploma to take a university degree, up to 10 units of course work can be counted as university credits. That’s quite a saving since tuitions at other universities across Nova Scotia average just under $6,000 per year.

“While some from the Atlantic Canada have moved away to Ontario or Alberta to take equine programs,” says Crewe, “NSAC now offers students a chance to stay closer to home while putting their horsemanship skills to work in developing businesses or careers.”

(Judith Scrimger lives in Newport, Nova Scotia.) february 2009 ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY

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From the ground up

Caring for your horses’ hooves in winter

by David Hayne With our harsh Maritime winters we must pay close attention to our horses’ hooves. During the winter, hooves grow at a slower rate than in the warmer months; some will agree it is because of the lack of sunshine, while others claim it is because some of the circulation is diverted from growth to keeping the hooves warm.

Whatever the many reasons contributing to decreased growth, we must consider how the cold weather, snow, and ice are affecting our horses’ feet.

Hooves reflect their environment. If the ground is wet, the hooves become soft and we may see the hoof wall breaking up. If the environment is too dry, the hooves become hard, and cracks may develop or chips may even break away from the horn material of the hoof. At both extremes, close attention must be paid to hoof care to lessen the chance of lameness occurring.

If your horse was shod for show season and is currently not being ridden often, you may consider pulling the shoes. If your horse lives in a snowy area, pulling shoes will prevent snow from building up under the hoof capsule, creating what is called “snowballing.”

Even if your horse is going barefoot for the winter, an overgrown hoof can create a buildup of snow. This snow-

A “snowball” with the imprint of the horse’s hoof still visible. Snowballing occurs when shoes are left on a horse in winter and snow builds up under the hoof’s capsule. This can cause injury to the horse’s ligaments, tendons, and joints. (Pam MacKenzie photos)

balling effect not only creates danger for the horse from falling, but also puts undue stress on ligaments, tendons, and joints. Snowballing can cause lameness if proper preventative steps are not taken.

To prevent any buildup, your horse still requires the assistance of your farrier

This photo shows what happens when hooves are exposed to dry conditions. The front hooves become extremely hard and can crack, often causing lameness and pain.

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every six to eight weeks in these wintry months, to trim and/or shoe the horse.

STABLING If your horse is being stabled, whether in a box or straight stall, care must be taken in the type of bedding chosen.

Straw, shavings, and sawdust are the most common forms of bedding. If your horse’s stall is not properly cleaned, a bacteria commonly called “Thrush” may build up in the sulcus and/or cleft of the frog. Thrush has a foul smelling odor and is grayish in color; and if suspected, your farrier and/or vet should be contacted.

If it is left untreated, lameness will not be far off.

Horses stabled in standing stalls need extra help as well. The front hooves generally become extremely hard, due mainly to drier conditions (the hind hooves get some moisture from standing in the urine and manure). If the elastic structures are jeopardized through the environment, lameness and pain can often result.

Also, some indoor riding facilities are dealing with frozen arena footing, and may add salt or other products to try and control this problem. Adding a hoof care product before you ride will help ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY february 2009

protect the elastic structures, stimulating the flow of blood throughout the hoof capsule, and protecting the hoof from additives in the footing which can be drying. If blood flow to the hoof is restricted for any reason, your horse is at risk of becoming lame. Talk to your farrier or trimmer to identify these problems so you can prepare your horse’s hooves for their environment.

WINTER ACTIVITIES If a horse is shod for the winter, either for pulling loads or riding, it’s important to understand that there is a proper way to shoe for winter traction and safety.

Your farrier will choose the right style of shoe, traction device with snowball pads, or other product available to prevent snowballing. Shoeing for winter traction takes an experienced farrier; adding a shoe/pad to the hoof with traction devices takes knowledge and skill.

Improper placement can cause major injuries to the horse, so owners should seek out a farrier who can perform this type of shoeing. Just as a barefooted horse can slip and suffer major injuries, so too can a horse get injured if the shoe and traction device is not placed properly on the hoof.

There are three key points that owners must consider when making the right hoof care decisions during winter months: the environment, the horse’s conformation, and types of activity.

Discuss trimming and shoeing with a qualified farrier. If you decide to pull shoes for the winter, be sure the hooves are strong enough to deal with the hard, frozen ground. It is also important to continue a balanced diet and provide adequate fresh water, perhaps using heated containers ­– horses will drink more water if it’s warm, and this can help prevent colic.

Examine and pick out hooves daily.

Look for signs of Thrush, bruising, or changes in the hoof capsule that might indicate internal problems. It is important to maintain daily exercise, which is good for the body, mind, and hooves.

Regardless of where your horse is living, whether it’s in a standing or box stall, or has 24/7 turnout, your horse’s hooves will love your attention.

(David Hayne lives in Guysborough County, N.S. He is a member of both the N.S. Farrier Association and the American Farriers’ Association.) february 2009 ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY

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Big passion for small horses Islander Jeannie MacLean loves her minis

by Nina Linton It is the morning after the first snowfall and the wind has kneaded out a sun-baked crust over Jeannie MacLean’s pasture. That same wind whips across the open fields, and over the backs of a batch of her multi-colored miniature horses.

Running outside in all four seasons means each one of these horses has a thick coat in the winter, making them look more like fuzzy little bears.

The dull December sky above breaks for a moment. An opaque orb lingers as the sun tries to announce itself on this dreary day.

Giving no heed to this nippy weather, a mare makes a calculated collapse to the snowy ground kicking her hooves skyward. Exuberantly rocking side to side, the mini churns up the flakes beneath her, sending up a cloud of miniscule ice crystals.

From her home, MacLean walks her usual route to the pasture. It begins with a brisk walk up her driveway, through her kennel, along a jutting path inside the barn and out to the side field, where she gazes out upon her mixture of minis.

“It took a long way to get here,” states MacLean figuratively, her voice brimming with pride.

It has been almost 30 years since the lifelong horse lover spotted her first miniature horse while working in Alberta. The wildlife park where she was employed was home to the free-running miniatures that first caught her eye, and after lassoing a yearling and training him in the barn, MacLean realized these incredibly intelligent horses were for her.

“That is when I fell in love with the breed,” she says of her first encounter. “I thought someday I am going to have some miniatures.”

Soon after the Manitoba native married and moved to

Jeannie MacLean and Husker’s One Elite Empire Maker. Showing her minis has been both a hobby and a passion.

(Photo courtesy of Jeannie MacLean) PAGE 16

Prince Edward Island with her husband Dwight MacLean, who was returning to take on the family dairy farm in Southwest Lot 16. Living on the land gave MacLean the opportunity to expand the farm she now called home to incorporate minis into their rollcall of Holsteins.

In 1990, MacLean started her miniature stable with the purchase of two animals from Jeannette Sears, the first breeder on the Island. MacLean’s premiere pair was a black stallion and a red-and-white pinto mare, Ellis Mini B. Now 19 years old, that mare still resides at MacLean’s Oceanbreeze Stable and, after a recent downsizing, she is now one of 39 minis in the herd.

“When I bought our first two miniatures, I knew I would be a breeder of this wonderful breed,” says MacLean. “We have quite a little herd here now with 10 stallions. We have appaloosas, pintos, palominos, and solid colors.”

Since MacLean opened her stable almost 20 years ago she estimates she has had more than 100 miniatures. In an average year she welcomes between four and eight new foals into the herd, with hopes of having 14 births this year.

MacLean says one of the hardest parts of her job is deciding which animals to keep and which ones to sell.

COMPETITIVE Many of the horses that move on to new barns live within the Maritimes, helping MacLean become one of the most prominent breeders in the region. Some of her Oceanbreeze stock have relocated as far away as Ontario and New York state.

“It took us quite a few years to build up our herd to what we have today. We have some really top line, top bloodlines in our horses now so that makes them more competitive in the show ring.”

Showing her minis has been a well-established hobby and

Jeannie MacLean at a Cape Breton competition in 2006, driving a two-horse mini hitch. Left is Oceanbreeze Starlight and on the right is a miniature owned by Pat Sheehy of Nova Scotia named Patton’s Precious Dove. (Photo courtesy of Jeannie MacLean) ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY february 2009

passion, as both an enthusiast and as a breeder with a love for these little creatures that now runs in the family.

MacLean became smitten with horses thanks to her father and now she has passed that on to her children, with all three of her sons being raised handling these tiny equines.

Her youngest son Stuart, 16, is the only one who still actively competes alongside his mother. Stuart began showing minis while still wearing a diaper, competing in the miniature walk and trot classes at one year old. “It has been fun over the years with the kids and the minis,” says MacLean.

Tucked inside the side door of their Queen Anne style home is a snug kitchen, coffee pot bubbling on the stove.

The understated wallpaper is a perfect backdrop for the flashy, brightly-colored show ribbons that hang on them; photographs documenting various slices of life at Oceanbreeze Stable line the walls and appliances.

Perched atop her refrigerator is a photo of her threeyear-old stallion, Country Lanes IMA Top Notch Broker.

Tacked to the corner of the frame is the red-and-white striped Grand Champion Stallion ribbon he brought home from the Calgary Stampede in 2006.

Jeannie MacLean in her house with a few of the brightly-colored ribbons she brought home from Nationals. (Nina Linton photo)

On the far wall, nestled between two red and blue fabric honors, hangs one of her favorite photos. With muted colors, the aged photo is of a rather innocent-looking 18-month-old Stuart, leading Ellis Mini B while her colt Oceanbreeze Hotshot tries to nurse.

The most recent photo sits on the kitchen table, with the beaming smile of an older Stuart under an outstretched bunting-draped crest. This photo was taken this past September when Oceanbreeze Stables had its most prestigious wins yet.

Stuart MacLean showing in the costume class at Old Home Week in Charlottetown, P.E.I., some years ago.

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MAKING HISTORY The mother and son duo made history with their mini Oceanbreeze Kazzam when they were the first Maritime competitors and the first Maritime-bred mini to qualify and show at the American Miniature Horse Registry (AMHR) National Championship Show in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Kazzam claimed eight national titles at the renowned show and shocked even some long-time competitors there.

“This year was quite an exciting time for us. It was our PAGE 17

decided to see how far he could go, first taking him out West to qualifying shows in both Manitoba and Alberta hoping for a coveted place at the AMHR National Show.

Competing in two qualifying shows, one in Brandon, Manitoba, and the other in Olds, Alberta, Kazzam really left a mark. In Brandon, he finished top three and won the Judge’s Choice award; then in Alberta he captured seven grand-championships and two reserve champion titles.

“He also won the award for the horse travelling the longest distance.

We figured that he travelled 3,500 Jeannie’s first mare, Ellis Mini B., still lives on the farm. The red and white Pinto is now miles one way and that was just to 19 years old and is one of 39 minis in the herd. (Nina Linton photo) Alberta and he still had to go to Oklahoma!”

Out of all her miniatures, MacLean decided Kazzam first time showing a performance horse there (Nationals) would be her best horse to compete abroad because of his and it was our own homebred. We were ecstatic about versatile show ability. This well-put-together horse with that,” says MacLean. “There were around 2,400 miniature a surprising stride and uniquely-speckled coat had been horses at the show, most of our classes had more than 50 winning on the Maritime show circuit for years. horses so it was pretty good just to get in the ribbons.”

“There isn’t a class that Kazzam hasn’t won! He is truly Kazzam is a beautiful 10-year-old gelding that has an all-round champion,” states MacLean. “This little horse been a top prize-winner since his birth. In 2008, MacLean

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has the stride and the heart of a Thoroughbred. It seems that no one has ever told him that he’s a mini!”

MacLean and her history-making horse owe a lot of thanks to the rest of the family. She says without them she wouldn’t have been able to reach the levels of success that both she and Stuart have achieved. This includes everything from coming to shows for moral support and lending a helping hand grooming, to staying home and feeding the rest of her horses while she is away.

“The miniature horse plays a large part in my life. They are my hobby, my business, and most of all my pets,” says MacLean. “When you hitch up a single or a team of miniatures, you can feel the power in these little horses.

When I come out of the ring in the top three placings it’s a great feeling. I love showing miniatures! They will be with me as long as I can look after horses.”

As MacLean looks forward she plans to again make it to Nationals this summer, taking more of her brood. And as she looks back, she sees that little can go a long way.

“I got my first pony when I was six years old and I haven’t been without a horse since. Over the years I have always had horses, ponies, and now minis,” reveals MacLean.

“Miniatures have been a journey of love for me.”

(Nina Linton lives in East Royalty, Prince Edward Island.)

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Stuart MacLean driving Oceanbreeze Kazzam in 2005. At 16, Stuart is Jeannie’s youngest son and the only one who still actively competes alongside his mother.

(Photo courtesy of Jeannie MacLean)

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Sliding into popularity Reining in the Maritimes

by Jodi DeLong Nick Valentine checks the girth of Dunnit in Chrome, the three-year-old stallion he’s schooling, then slips his boot into a stirrup and settles easily into the saddle. He picks up the reins attached to the mild snaffle bit in the colt’s mouth, and the chestnut moves into a steady walk, ears flicking back to acknowledge his rider’s commands. Over the course of the next half hour, Valentine will put the horse through a variety of exercises, including spins, sliding stops, quick turns, and large circles, schooling him in the art of reining. The horse will travel on a loose rein, moving out eagerly but also obeying his rider’s wishes while his owner, Quarter Horse breeder and trainer, Pat Kidston, and a visitor observe from ringside.

Reining is sometimes described to newcomers, stable visitors, or others who don’t know the sport as “the Western form of dressage.” The discipline had its origin on cattle ranches in western Canada and the U.S., where cowhands would use their horses to round up, move, and otherwise manage herds of cattle on open pasture ranges. A good cow horse would be smart, quick, easy to handle and agile, well-trained and willing to respond to commands instantly but also on a light rein. Although such skills are still in demand on ranches throughout the continent, in some cases vehicles have taken the place of horses in cattle herding situations; but the discipline has found a huge popularity in Western riding competitions, with its own worldwide-recognized organizations and competitions throughout North America, Europe, and beyond.

“It’s kind of like the figure skating of the equine world. That’s how I describe reining to someone who’s never seen it before,” says Kevin Wile – and he should know. The Falmouth, Nova Scotia, rider and trainer was smitten by the sport back in the early 1970s when he went with a friend to the Quarterama show in Toronto. “I got a look at some reiners, and was hooked,” he says. With scads of championships from Canada, the U.S., and Europe, Wile says he makes the figure skating comparison to non-riders or beginners to explain the moves, the need for precision at speed, february 2009 ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY

(Above) A reining horse must respond to commands while working on a loose rein and with a relatively gentle bit. Here the colt is doing a sliding stop from a lope, and both he and his rider are relaxed. (Below) The normal sequence is spinstart, then spin 2, 3, 4, and 5. This photo shows spin 4.

(Jodi DeLong photos)

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and the beauty of the patterns.

Wile is also a former director of the National Reining Horse Association (NRHA), the umbrella organization for reining, which is based in Oklahoma City, OK. There is a Canadian affiliate, as well as provincial and local clubs, but all tend to follow the guidelines, reining patterns, and rules laid down by the

NRHA; to check out its website, follow the NRHA link at www.AtlanticFarmer. com.

CHALLENGING Kidston, of Kentville, N.S., has been involved with the sport of reining for a decade now. A longtime fixture on the Quarter Horse circuit, the breeder and

This photo shows an easy lope. Note the nice, loose rein the horse is working on at a brisk but relaxed lope.

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trainer wanted a new challenge, and reining fit the bill perfectly. “This is a much more technically demanding sport than showing on the circuit,” she says.

“The moves are challenging, you have to work really well with your horse, and of course, it’s fun!” When she first started in reining, there weren’t a huge number of people involved and she says “we were all kind of in the dark” about the sport; you couldn’t learn a whole lot unless you went elsewhere to train or take clinics.

Kidston credits Maritimers like Wile, Ralph Gillis, Jim Durling, and others with really advancing the sport and helping to raise its profile in Atlantic Canada.

As the number of enthusiasts grew, they were able to bring in good clinicians from other parts of Canada and the U.S.; now there are some fine local clinicians, including Mona Lewis of Redwood Stables in Cape Breton, and Don Adams from outside Moncton in New Brunswick. The local reiners also enjoy occasional clinics with internationally-recognized reining professionals such as Dell Hendricks.

Lisa Tulk owns Equine Excellence in Mount Uniacke, N.S., after having worked with and learned from facility founder and longtime reining enthusiast Jim Durling. She purchased the facility in 2003 with a partner, and in 2006 became the sole owner. She says the appeal of reining is that you combine a lot of excitement with precision and control. And the shows are a lot of fun, challenging but fair. “There’s nothing subjective in

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A lexicon of reining moves As with dressage, a reining horse in competition is required to follow a pattern and demonstrate its abilities to do certain maneuvers.

According to the Reining Canada website, these maneuvers include the following: Flying lead changes, which to be done correctly must be done at the lope with no change of speed or gait and executed precisely where indicated by the reining pattern for the class.

Spins, which are among the most popular and exciting moves the horse and rider do in a reining pattern. A correctly-executed spin will have the horse do a series of 360-degree turns, with his inside back foot remaining in one spot while the rest of him pivots around that spot smoothly and without interruption or resistance.

Circles, which are done at the lope and must be performed at the exact spot in the reining pattern, at correct circle size, and with a correct and consistent speed of lope (fast or slow, depending on pattern).

Backup, which is when the horse must move in a straight line backwards a minimum distance of 10 feet, with a consistent gait (walk)

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and no resistance or hesitation from the horse.

Rollback, which is another popular and exciting move where the horse comes to a stop from a lope or gallop, rolls its shoulders back, and executes a half circle (180-degree) turn, to lope off in the opposite direction. The entire maneuver must be done smoothly in one fluid movement of stop/ rollback/lope out.

Sliding stop, which is the most popular and dramatic move of the reining horse. As the name suggests, the horse is cued to stop from a lope, and begins sliding on his back feet (which are tucked under his belly) while still moving forward with front legs. The effect is to have the horse slide to a halt over a distance of between 10-30 ft, in a straight-line movement, and usually accented by a cloud of dust and flying dirt.

Often between movements in a reining pattern, the horse is required to stand still for a few seconds. While this pause or hesitation is not judged as a movement as such, the horse will be penalized if it does not wait quietly and with good manners before moving on to the next part of the pattern.

the judging,” she observes. “It’s just you and your horse, and how well you can control and work your horse. The scoring is extremely systematic and doesn’t allow for a lot of aesthetic opinion.”

What makes a good reining horse?

A horse can be of any breed, although Quarter Horses, Paints, ard Arabs are the most commonly seen. Everyone I spoke to agreed that regardless of breed, the main thing is that the horse has to be athletic, willing, and have a good mind.

“It’s crucial your horse shows no resistance when running the patterns, that he responds on cue when he’s supposed to change leads, halt, back up, or do any of the other moves,” says Tulk. Wile agrees.

“I look at the horse’s breeding, as that contributes to the horse having a good mind,” he says. With reining the focus isn’t so much on a conformationally “perfect” horse as one that is athletic and willing. “One of the best reiners I had was not a pretty horse, goose-rumped and a little funny in his stance on his front legs,” Wile says. “But he was a great reining horse, no matter what he looked like. It’s in the attitude!”

COST VS. PAYOUT What does it cost to get into the sport?

As with other equestrian activities, cost is affected by the level at which you wish to or are able to compete. If you’re going green or non-professional, purchasing a trained horse will not cost nearly as much as it would if you’re going for the higher level of competition. Any

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Western saddle can be used so long as it fits the horse, although many of the local competitors opt for having one of Nova Scotian saddle maker James Brown’s custom-built saddles. Horses are required to carry a curb bit in classes (and the rider to control the horse with one hand) except for green classes, where a snaffle can be used and riders may ride two-handed. The only special gear that riders might want to invest in are sliding plates, special shoes to help facilitate those signature sliding stops.

To give readers some indication of how much the sport has grown, the NRHA says that from 1997 to 2007, its membership jumped 40 percent to more than 15,000. Shows and prize money have increased accordingly; in 1997 prize money of $1.3 million was paid out in various competitions, and in 2006 that figure was more than 10 million U.S. dollars. There’s a Hall of Fame at the NRHA headquarters, which includes high achievers both human and equine, including a sire whose offspring had earned more than $1,000,000 collectively. While not common, there are also a few riders who have earned more than a million dollars in show money, including Hendricks, of Tioga, Texas, where Nova Scotian reiner Nick Valentine has just gone to work.

The Atlantic reining scene is growing slowly but steadily, with a presence in all the Maritime provinces. There are a number of shows throughout the region, usually starting with a fun show put on

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A National Reining Horse Associationapproved reining pattern.

(Taken from the Reining Canada website)

by the Scotia Sliders in the Annapolis Valley in May, to get everyone going again, and then the circuit runs through the summer and wraps up with the Maritime Fall Fair. Wile says the shows are a terrific way to raise the sport’s profile too, although the biggest drawing show, at the Fall Fair, is a bit of a conundrum.

“People see the reining classes, get interested in trying it for themselves, and then we’re into winter, and the circuit is done. By the time spring comes, sometimes would-be reiners are on to other

things, or have lost interest in getting started. It would be wonderful if there was a high-traffic show like the Fall Fair in the spring where we could get similar exposure for our sport. Because the best way to learn about it and get excited is to come and watch a show.” Wile makes the observation that he has never seen any local television or newspaper coverage of reining events, and hopes that will soon change, although he acknowledges media coverage has its own challenges.

One of the challenges faced by reiners wanting to have competitions in the Maritimes is finding a venue with the proper footing for reining classes. A favorite venue is the Princess Louise Show Centre facility in Sussex, N.B., which hosts several events each year.

Internationally, the sport has been part of the World Equestrian Games since 2002, and there are hopes to have the discipline added to the Olympics in the near future. This would make the sport the first Western riding discipline in the Olympics, and would truly increase its profile and popularity.

The enthusiasts I spoke with each mentioned that one of the best things about reining is the community. “Everyone cheers for one another even though we’re competing against each other,” Tulk told me. “It’s all about seeing you and your horse do well and have fun!”

(Jodi DeLong lives in Scots Bay, N.S.)

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A Vet’s View

Understanding umbilical hernias in foals

by Marcos Lores, DVM The term hernia refers to a protrusion of an organ or tissue through an opening in the body. Umbilical hernias occur when a piece of intestine protrudes down into a body wall defect (opening) at the umbilical area. This type of hernia is the most common type in horses, and is the second most common equine congenital defect.

The umbilicus is the lifeline of the developing animal, connecting it to the outside world and its dam. The umbilical cord contains two arteries, a vein, and the urachus, which is a tube-like structure that connects to the foal’s bladder and empties it into the amniotic sac. The arteries and vein bring blood to and from the placenta.

The vein connects to the foal’s blood system via the liver, and the two arteries go up and around the bladder and connect to the foal’s blood system.

Umbilical hernias occur during fetal development when the tissues of the abdomen fail to close; they are usually noticed at birth. The area of the abdominal wall surrounding the umbilicus is one of the last areas of PAGE 30

the body wall to close during development. If there is any defect in the complete closure in this area, it will result in an umbilical hernia.

The anatomy of umbilical hernias involves the skin, a single layer of fascia (strong layer of tissue that provides support), and the peritoneum (thin membrane that forms the lining of the abdominal cavity). The content of the sack may be intestine (small intestine, large intestine, or cecum), subperitoneal fat, or omentum (a double fold of peritoneum that hangs down from the stomach and extends from the stomach to the posterior abdominal wall). So, a foal can be born with an umbilical hernia, or the hernia can develop during the first week of life.

In most foals, if you palpate their umbilical area carefully, you can feel a small (less than a tip of your little finger) defect in the body wall that will disappear as the umbilicus heals.

If there is a larger defect (hernia), it can be variable in size (generally between two and 12 cm). What you might see, depending on the size of

the hernia, is a variable size sack on the underbelly (see photo on page 31).

This is the skin, some subcutaneous tissue, and intestines. The general method of measuring a hernia is the finger-counting method. For example, if three fingers can be inserted into the hernia it is a “three-finger hernia.”

HEREDITARY The risk of developing umbilical hernias in foals has been reported to range from 0.5 to two percent. It is generally accepted that equine umbilical hernias are hereditary defects, with Thoroughbreds, Standardbreds, and Quarter Horses being most commonly affected. Results of one study indicated there is a sex-linked genetic factor, which may explain why females are twice as likely to be affected. In addition, the development of umbilical hernias has also been attributed to trauma to the umbilical cord during birth, excessive straining, and umbilical infection.

It is important to determine that swelling around the umbilicus is not more than just a small hernia. The ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY february 2009

hernia should be non-painful, soft, and fluctuant, and you should be able to push the contents of the sack (usually intestines) back up into the abdomen. Although they are usually benign and only represent a cosmetic defect, they are a potential site for bowel incarceration (obstruction). In fact, between eight and 10 percent of umbilical hernias referred to equine hospitals sustain complications that are life threatening and mandate emergency surgery.

When incarceration does occur, strangulation of a portion of the intestine should be anticipated. With incarceration, any increase in size, firmness, edema, or pain on palpation is an indication that surgery should be performed as soon as possible. Because the umbilicus can often become infected, it is very important to rule this out. If there is any heat, pain, or firm swelling around the umbilical stalk or the foal is even slightly sick, a veterinarian should be called in to check the foal for the presence of infection. If umbilical infection occurs, it should be treated promptly because in addition to causing severe systemic illness, it can lead to the development of an umbilical hernia.

Ultrasonographic examination of the hernia, the abdomen, and the ventral abdominal wall (underbelly) is indicated to determine the nature of the hernia contents in complicated (firm, warm, or unable to push it up) hernias. In addition, ultrasonography can be helpful to differentiate umbilical hernias from abscessation and local infection of the umbilical cord and associated structures. Most complicated hernias are sudden in onset, causing acute colic signs (abdominal pain), but incarceration can persist for a variable period of time before any abdominal pain develops.

TREATMENT An umbilical hernia can be treated in three different ways: conservatively, non-surgically, or surgically, depending on the presentation. Conservative treatment is based on the hope of spontaneous remission; those with a hernial ring diameter of less than five cm (three or four fingers) frequently resolve without treatment as the foal matures, by three to six months. Treatment recommendations february 2009 ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY

often include daily digital reduction of these hernias; this simply means pushing the contents of the hernia sack into the abdomen with your fingers on a daily basis. This allows for daily

determination that the hernia can be reduced (pushed into the abdomen) and might decrease the risk of the intestines “sticking� within the sack.

Also, you can monitor for changes

A case of umbilical hernia. Here you can see the sack on the underbelly, which contains the skin, some subcutaneous tissue, and intestines.

(Dr. Marcos Lores photos)

After closure of the hernia ring (see photo of surgical repair in progress on page 30), the skin is closed. In this case skin staples were used for skin closure.

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in size or incarceration of hernia contents. The risk of intestinal obstruction (and development of colic) if the intestine becomes stuck is the major concern.

The non-surgical method of treating hernias includes a belt that encircles the abdomen, as well as the application

Umbilical hernias occur during fetal development when the tissues of the abdomen fail to close. of elastrator rings or hernia clamps (clamping of the skin and edges of the defect over the hernia in an effort to scar the tissue together and close the defect without surgical intervention).

These techniques are reported to be successful, but only uncomplicated hernias with a hernial ring diameter less than eight cm should be treated in this manner.

It should be noted however, that this therapeutic approach poses a serious risk of complication if the intestine becomes entrapped in the hernia clamp, leading to intestinal obstruction, peritonitis, or development of an enterocutaneous fistula. Clamping an umbilical remnant, abscess, or omentum may also result in serious complications. Inadvertent dislodging of clamps has led to eventration (rupture of the abdominal wall with intestines protruding).

Because of the risks associated with non-surgical treatment modalities, these techniques are not commonly practiced. Another method similar to clamping includes the injection of mild blistering agents just under the skin to promote the development of scar tissue and facilitate closing.

With the blistering technique, great care must be taken not to inject the blister into the intestine or abdominal cavity, which would probably cause the intestine to become stuck in the hernia.

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are unlikely to resolve and the risk of strangulating obstruction is substantial. Elective surgical correction of umbilical hernias (umbilical herniorrhaphy) under general anesthesia is often performed for cosmetic reasons.

In addition, this procedure is indicated for hernias larger than two cm that do not resolve spontaneously by three to six months of age, to avoid emergency surgery. Emergency hernia repair is needed for hernias that are irreducible, suddenly increase in size, or are associated with depression or signs of colic.

There are two surgical approaches: the open and the closed techniques.

The closed technique repairs the hernia without opening the abdominal cavity and has the advantage of simplicity.

This technique has the disadvantage of not being able to see what is in the hernia sack before suturing it closed and great care must be taken not to place a suture into the intestine. The open technique is the most precise.

With the open technique, the hernia sack is opened, evaluated, resected, and the body wall repaired (see photo on page 30). Aftercare usually only involves keeping the foal confined for 10 days to prevent accidental injury and to allow careful observation of the surgical area.

The prognosis for survival following surgical correction of umbilical hernias in foals is good – even in foals with strangulated umbilical hernias.

In summary, although umbilical hernia complications are rare in horses, complications can occur and they are not predictable. Foals with hernias should be checked daily with palpation and hernia reduction. If the umbilical hernia becomes irreducible, suddenly increases in size, or is associated with depression or signs of colic, it is important to have your veterinarian check the foal’s hernia for possible strangulation. If the hernia is large, or has not resolved within six months, surgical repair is recommended.

(Dr. Lores received his DVM from the University of Cordoba, Spain, in 1999. He completed an internship at Chino Valley Equine Hospital in California, U.S., and is currently a large animal surgery resident at the Atlantic Veterinary Hospital, P.E.I.) PAGE 34

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Horses In Harness Report with Pamela MacKenzie

Large, small,

and everything in between W elcome to 2009 and winter and

Atlantic Horse & Pony’s first Horses In Harness Report. With this change, what was the Draft Report will now be opened up to more horses and ponies of all sizes and breeds that participate in harness work, shows, or activities. We welcome news from all harness disciplines from mini to draft and all sizes between. We encourage driving clubs and breed associations with driving classes to add us to your newsletter mailing list so we can get your information out.

express their shock and grieve their loss of an avid horseman, while his mare was shown recovering from her injuries. Hebb was a member of the Lawrencetown Exhibition Committee and the Draft Pony Association.

Sincere and deepest sympathies are extended to his wife Hilda, son Brent

Horses here are all snuggled down

for a long, restful winter, should it decide to stay. December was a mixed up mess of warm and wet days with a dash of snow and wind. It’s a difficult time to keep horses comfortable in warm weather and their fluffy winter coats.

Draft and driving news is not plentiful this time of year, but we did see some nice sleigh ride weather and beautiful moonlit evenings in January.

In late November we had the devas-

tating and sudden passing of Bertram Aiden Hebb, 65, of Port Royal, N.S. He was killed as the result of a motor vehicle accident while driving his draft pony mare near his home.

Neighbors appeared on the news to

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Jolene Taylor, currently a tourism student in Dartmouth, N.S., and Ron MacKenzie of Brookfield, N.S., take advantage of the new snow by hitching up the Clydes for a sleigh ride.

(Pam MacKenzie photos)

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(Jennifer) of Digby, grandchildren, and other family members, neighbors, and friends. He will be deeply missed.

The Atlantic Horse Fair is planned

for May 9 and 10 in Truro, Nova Scotia. Contact Grant or Diane at the Truro Raceway (902-893-8075) if you would like to participate.

Get

well wishes are extended to both Eleanor and Sterling Whidden of Greenfield, N.S. Both are recovering from serious health challenges and our thoughts and prayers are with the retired dairy and draft horse couple.

The Nova Scotia Driving Society

(NSDS) news from 2008 is in. The Society held a two-day show on July 12-

Dan Isner of Isner Stable and Trail Rides in Harrietsfield, N.S., and a retired Standardbred take an antique racing sleigh for a drive.

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13. Society members also competed in driving classes at the various regional fairs and exhibitions. Unfortunately the Maritime Fall Fair pleasure driving classes were cancelled due to small number of entries. This was a disappointment and will be an area for focus for NSDS this year. In October NSDS members attended the Bass River Fire Brigade’s Annual Ride & Drive and also the Annapolis Valley Driving Club’s Fun Day at Sky Valley Farm, near Middleton. Both events were fun-filled days with wonderful company and delicious food.

The NSDS took its first moves into the development of combined driving in Nova Scotia in 2008. Gary Harris and Brian Irving competed in combined driving in Bromont, Québec, with great success. Irving competed in pony, training division and came second. Harris competed in horse, training division and came third. They have done a great job of inspiring others to be interested in the discipline.

As well, Bruce Collins showed his pony in New York and at the Royal Winter Fair. Nancy Webster-Pineo was the brave NSDS member who built a course and offered the first Combined Driving Fun show in Nova Scotia, which was well attended by both clubs. Many thanks to WebsterPineo and her team who provided such a wonderful event. The NSDS show is scheduled for July 11-12.

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More 2009 dates and details will follow in upcoming issues.

O n a happy note the winner of the beautiful porcelain Clydesdale horse drawn for by the Nova Scotia Clydesdale Club was Scott McGillivray of Bible Hill, N.S.

Fred, a retired senior black Percheron gelding owned by Ron MacKenzie of Brookfield, N.S., makes a silly face to celebrate the new year.

The Can-Am Equine Emporium will be held in Fredericton, N.B., on May 22-24 and on May 29-31 in Windsor, N.S. For more information, call 519421-1189 or follow the Can-Am link at www.AtlanticFarmer.com.

S ome good news came in for a lo-

cal entrepreneur and draft person.

Melanie Fiske has been invited by Marion Young, publisher of The Clydesdale Speculator, to write an article about her family’s product, Fiske’s Hoof and Hide Balm. They are also investigating making soft soap. Good luck Mel!

I wish you a great 2009 and some

wonderland-like sleigh ride weather.

Ride and drive safely.

Share your news, pictures, club activities, newsletters and tidbits about draft horses, draft horse, people, and horses in harness. Write to Pam MacKenzie, 1100 #2 Highway, RR 2, Brookfield, NS B0N 1C0, or phone 902-673-3409.

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ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY february 2009

Traveling abroad; presenting awards

I’m writing this in December in the aftermath of two late November snowstorms. Two days of shoveling out the barn and I was convinced I wanted a condo in the city and that Bob and Clancy would be off to a boarding facility. A week later the sun was shining, the snow had melted, and I was hacking Clancy up the Woodville Road.

Such is winter in Nova Scotia.

Four Valley women had the right idea to keep the juices flowing

in the November doldrums by attending the 11th Annual Equine Affaire in West Springfield, Massachusetts. At midnight on Nov. 11, Liz Longland of Margaretsville, Teresa Bowlby of Tremont, Pam Bent and Joey Sampson-Lewis of Middleton set off on their adventure, with Bent behind the wheel for 16 hours. Equine Affaire draws tens of thousands of horse people to enjoy worldclass educational programs, training clinics, seminars, demos, etc.

Sampson-Lewis notes that the highlight of their trip was not only watching and learning from Clinton Anderson, Tim Cox, and Matt Mills, but meeting and talking with all three. She adds that anyone who possibly could go, should, and to mark their calendars for Nov. 12-15, 2009.

LilySampsonwrotetosaythatJessicaBowlby(Tremont),Kristina

Keddy (Greenwood), and Jacquelyn Martell (Annapolis Royal) all successfully completed their Equine Canada Western Rider 4 exams.

Congratulations on this achievement. Bowlby added another credit to her riding resume: she won the 2008 Sans of Time Memorial award. Sans of Time was a Bashkir Curly gelding, owned by the Sampsons, who is in the American Bashkir Curly Hall of Fame.

The award in his memory is given annually by the Sampson family to a deserving youth rider.

Nova Scotia Report with Judith Scrimger

and Derek Milne in Youth. Kyle Johnson took the Merit award.

Well done.

The Nova Scotia Haflinger

Club held an outstanding Fall Roundup at the Annapolis Valley Exhibition grounds in mid-October. The weather was superb, and attendance for horses and handlers was the highest ever. A number of events took place over the course of the weekend: showmanship, log hauling, and obstacle courses for driving, in-hand, and under saddle. The weekend was topped off by a scrumptious potluck dinner featuring deep-fried turkey and all the trimmings imaginable.

Everybody – human and equine – had a wonderful time.

Jessie Dowe, 19, of Amherst had a pretty exciting year with her

Appaloosa mare, Living Proof. Dowe qualified for the World Appaloosa Show in Fort Worth, Texas, in senior western pleasure.

While the expense of traveling to Texas to compete was prohibitive, Dowe gets to wear a World Champion Qualifier belt buckle.

She also won the High Point Youth award for the Appaloosa Club of Nova Scotia and for New Brunswick, which gave her the high point award for Atlantic Canada. Dowe has good role models in her parents: her father Ron Groundwater’s filly, Living in Colour, qualified for the World Show as did her mother, Susie Groundwater’s Tulip’s Tia Maria.

TheCapeBretonWesternRidersAssociation(CBWRA)awarded

at the 2008 Team Cattle Penning banquet. This year’s recipients are Sue Lowe in the Open Division, Wesley Sproule in the Amateur,

two special trophies at its year-end banquet in the fall. The group lost two fellow riders this past year and Kim Beaton donated two memorial trophies to honor them. The Jim MacKeigan trophy went to Sarah Ernst for Senior Champion Showmanship. MacKeigan was a successful competitor at CBWRA shows and also at the Maritime Quarter Horse Association and the International Quarter

A bird’s eye view of team penner Clinton Lewis of Moshers Corner, N.S., and his mare Winnie waiting their turn to ride at a cow horse clinic.

(Lily Sampson photo)

Imogen Brodmann of Blockhouse, N.S., sent in this funny photo of her five-year-old Arabian mare, B.A. Aliandra. It was taken just after a heavy snowfall and Imogen says “I don’t know what she was trying to find. I never saw a horse do that before. Soon after she took off again and enjoyed the snow.”

The Annual Dianne Babin Esprit de Corps award was presented

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Jessie Dowe, 19, of Amherst, N.S., qualified her Appaloosa mare, Living Colour, for the Appaloosa World Champion Show in Fort Worth, Texas, for the senior western pleasure division. See item on page 41.

(Judith Scrimger photo)

Horse Congress. The second trophy went to Jennifer MacNeil for open western pleasure in memory of the late Lorna Morrison who was an Equine Canada Western coach and competitor.

The Nova Scotia Equestrian Federation

(NSEF) is pleased to announce the new English Learn to Ride Levels 1-10 program with accompanying manuals is now available.

NSEF Executive Director Heather Myrer says the new program is better suited to the needs of both coach and rider and there is a natural progression within it that gives riders the confidence they need to excel at every level. The manuals can be purchased from the NSEF office in Halifax. In other NSEF news, anyone who missed the AGM in January can access the annual reports of all the committees online by following the NSEF link at www.AtlanticFarmer.com.

A reined cow horse clinic was held at the

Greenwood Horse & Recreation Centre in Greenwood, N.S., on Nov. 8-9. The clinician was Jessie Cofell from Ontario. Everyone at the clinic enjoyed his instruction and all hope to have him back in the spring.

The Nova Scotia Agricultural College

Equestrian Club was able to host its first competition in the Atlantic University Equestrian League thanks to the help of Reaching Strides Equestrian Centre in Antigonish. Teams from NSAC, Dalhousie, Acadia, and Saint Mary’s competed in every PAGE 42

Kate Andrews of Liverpool, N.S., and Lita Lark during a Valley Reiners’ western pleasure competition at the Lawrencetown Exhibition grounds on Sept. 28.

(Photo courtesy of Loretta Andrews)

level from walk-trot to open-over-fences using the school horses.

“We were very grateful to Nadine Bollig for allowing us to use her facility and horses,” reports Dara Pelkey-Smith, who coaches the NSAC team. “They had a lovely spot for spectators in the indoor arena and Nadine’s students warmed up the horses for us and were really helpful in having the show run smoothly.”

The university league is really taking off.

Another competition was held in the fall term at Rolling Hills Stables in Wolfville, the home of the Acadia team. That venue was packed with spectators. You don’t have to own a horse to participate. The league is set up so that riders draw for their mounts on the day of the competition using horses provided by the hosting stable/club.

Keep those emails and phone calls

coming. The deadline for the next issue is February 24. Perhaps you are lucky enough to be showing on the Florida circuit or staying in Nova Scotia and hooking old Dobbin to the sleigh. No matter how you are spending winter with your horses, share your experiences with fellow readers of Horse & Pony.

Share your news from Nova Scotia: your club activities and tidbits about N.S. people and horses. Send information to Judith Scrimger, RR 3, Newport, NS B0N 2A0, phone 902-757-3789, or email judith.scrimger@gmail.com.

ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY february 2009

New Brunswick Report with Vanessa Packman

New Brunswick’s shining stars What a mixed bag of events the tail end of 2008 has proven to

be! The bucking of the international economic scene, the political upheaval in Ottawa, and the crazy weather have many of us wondering what tricky move the world is going to throw at us next.

The uncertainty has shown itself in smaller events, rising horse

care costs, and a general tail-to-the-wind hunkering down amid the community as we wait to see what else is coming. Yet, there have been several shining points that remind us it’s not all dark days.

It was marvelous to watch our own Deanna Phelan providing commentary at the Royal Winter Fair Horse Show in November.

Her depth of show jumping knowledge and professional delivery made it a pleasure to watch the televised classes over the two weekends. Here’s hoping for a repeat appearance!

There is a greater sense of

structure among the barrel racing community after its constitution was formalized at the Dec. 6 AGM of the N.B./P.E.I. Barrel Horse Association. Sixteen people met in Sussex for prizes and business after the original Moncton end-of-year gathering was snowed out. As the organization continues to build in the sport, the officers’ freshly-defined roles offer more security to members and the directors who serve them, President Danny Richard said.

As we work towards warmer weather, the NB Morgan Horse Club is offering riders and drivers a spring tune up of their skills.

On the other side of the world, another New Brunswicker was

showing the way in another sport. Bob Gielen of Quispamsis was the first Canadian and 34th rider across the finish line at the FEI World Endurance Championship 2008 in Malaysia.

It’s not every day a Maritime equestrian rides with kings, dodges lightning in a midnight ride, or has sand melt the shoes off his mount. These are just some of the adventures Gielen and his mount, Galaxy, had during their early November race against 135 international riders. The tropical heat meant the race unfolded during the cooler night hours, with torrential rains and lightning making difficult conditions even more treacherous. An excited Galaxy carried Gielen ahead of his Canadian teammates, and he later became excited to learn the riders and tired mounts he encountered during the fifth loop were those of the host king himself! Throw in monkeys watching from the bushes and sand that wore down horseshoes to wafers, and Gielen is not about to forget the largest, toughest ride in his career for a long time. Well done!

From the tropics to a New Brunswick winter – more than 1,000 spectators attended the second annual January Thaw horse convention in the Fredericton Capital Exhibits Centre on Jan. 24.

The move to the larger venue is a sign of the rising popularity of the mid-winter gathering of horse fans. This is a positive sign, as events such as the Canadian Morgan Horse Convention in Halifax have been cancelled for April due to financial concerns. Proceeds from the event (more than $2,700) went to support the Children’s Wish Foundation.

A combined 19,000 miles have passed under the hooves and saddles of these ACTRA riders who are saluted at the year-end awards with new jackets in Truro, N.S., last November. Left to right are Bev Elliott (4,000 miles), Jean Bridges (7,000 miles), Lucy Rudge (4,000 miles), Donna Lee Cole (1,000 miles), Russlyn Patriquin-Dyke (2,000 miles) and Irmgard Lipp (1,000 miles). Lipp’s mare, Ronya, made it a round 20,000 miles for the group with her 1,000 miles cooler. (Photos courtesy of Vanessa Packman)

A Hampton horse enthusiast has shared his love for the animals

in the first of what promises to be a series of children’s tales. James Daley released his “Tales from the Ranch” in time for Christmas.

His childhood with horses in Saint John, and his training to become a blacksmith, provided him with the knowledge to write the story based in Western Canada in the1940s. He was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 1991, and has lived in the Dr. V.A. Snow Centre for the last four years. As his illness made writing increasingly difficult, working with renowned Canadian artist Kathy Hooper helped get his ideas down on paper. Hooper helped organize the material and create the cover and inside illustrations to help Daley realize his dream of writing a book. The result is available for sale at local bookstores. february 2009 ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY

Snowball, a Paint/draft horse cross, is surrounded by many well wishers at her 35th birthday party last fall. Linda Davis of Saint John, N.B., has owned the mare since she was a foal. Snowball received a new pink halter, birthday cake, and lots of hugs from her party guests.

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Jesse, a six-year-old Friesian gelding owned by Natalie Cormier of Burton, N.B., makes sure Kelly O’Leary is okay after she slid off his back into the snow. Natalie took this photo at the O’Leary Riding Stable in Beaver Dam, near Fredericton, N.B.

Instructor Robin Groves will be back in Sussex May 8-10. She’s an icon on the North American driving scene and is known for her to-the-point coaching style. Organizers urge those wishing to learn from this popular coach to register early. Call Dawn Brown, 506-433-5725 for details.

Elsewhere in the Morgan community, the friends of Dr. Marlene Gallon rallied around her as she battled breast cancer. Friends at Whispering Winds near Moncton spearheaded a fundraiser in

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Dr. Marlene Gallon, right, presents Sylvia Saunders, Atlantic rep of the Equine Foundation of Canada, with a $3,000 donation.

The money comes from an October fundraiser organized by Whispering Winds near Moncton as a tribute to her work with the horse community (see item this page). The donation will help launch a chiropractic facility at Gallon’s alma mater, the Atlantic Veterinary College at UPEI. (Errol Mitchell photo)

tribute to her work with the horse community and in support of her recent health challenges. Gallon then donated the resulting $3,000 to the Equine Foundation of Canada (EFC) to help launch a chiropractic facility at her alma mater, the Atlantic Veterinary College at UPEI. The EFC helps fund research into equine health problems, with grants to each of Canada’s four veterinary colleges on a rotating basis.

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A grateful Vivian DeMerchant of Ru-

sagonis has her two new saddles back in her tack room once again. She credits and thanks the Maritime horse community for helping her get them back one week after they were stolen from her barn last September. With many eyes keeping a look out, the saddles were found and those responsible due to appear in court in January. Her insurance adjuster said it was only the second time in his 18 years on the job he remembers stolen goods being recovered.

It’s these kinds of events that give us

hope. May the season of love bring you the warmth and caring to sustain you through these bumpy months and into the new season. Here’s to safe trails, flowing water pipes, and snug barns in the closing weeks of winter. Bye for now.

Share your news from New Brunswick: your horse events, news, and nuggets. Phone Vanessa Packman at 506-433-2601, email packmanv@ nbnet.nb.ca, or write 1244 Post Road, Sussex Corner, NB E4E 2V5.

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ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY february 2009

Remembering last year; planning this year By the time this goes to press the holidays will be behind us and we’ll be settling in for a long, cold Maritime winter, and maybe trying to shed a few of the pounds gained thanks to Christmas goodies. At times like this it’s good to look at pictures of last summer and try to recall the green grass, dusty red earth, and warm breezes that make the Island so special. We have a few photos in this issue that might help.

And the snow, ice, wind, and slush will end eventually. Honest.

Island Horse Council (IHC) held its an-

nual awards banquet in late November at the Cody Banks arena in Sherwood. The affair was well attended and member clubs passed out awards to people from each discipline. As well, the ADL/Sports PEI provincial awards were announced. The provincial winners were Santina Beaton (junior female), Stuart MacLean (junior male), Harma Germs (senior female), and John McAssey (coach). The IHC Appreciation award went to Gerald Dixon for his many years of volunteer service to the Island horse community and, most recently, his work with developing the Crapaud Agriplex facility.

A new development on the IHC website is a discount offered to members on purchases of agricultural and other equipment by companies partnering with Equine Canada (EC). A membership in

february 2009 ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY

Prince Edward Island Report with Andy Robb

IHC also includes an EC membership.

Check it out by following the IHC link at www.AtlanticFarmer.com.

Island dressage people have their plans

in place already for the 2009 show season – are they organized or what? There will be four Gold level shows, all at Crapaud.

The spring shows will be held June 5 and 7 with Elaine Banfield judging. The summer shows will go on July 18 and 19 with Joan McCartney officiating. For people new to dressage or wanting to get a taste of dressage competition, there will be a “discovery” show on Aug. 22 with Alison Gallagher judging.

This show will be at Crapaud as well.

Sounds like a busy season as usual.

a large show with tough competition.

Wiseman, a Dutch Warmblood from New Perth Farms, was the winner; this facility is quickly gaining a reputation as a source of top-quality Sport horses.

And speaking of

dressage shows, Dr. Martha Mellish, daughter of Ken and Teresa of New Perth Farms, won two first placings at a 2008 show in Pennsylvania for five-yearold dressage-type horses. This was

Mary Gallant, executive director of M&M Lucky Hooves, had her mini horses out to different care facilities across the Island during the holidays. Left to right are Fidget, Wendy Shaw, Sarah Chant, Prince, Mary, Megan Chant, Bartoia, Libby Shaw, and Levi Rayner. See item page 49.

(Photo courtesy of Mary Gallant)

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The Island has a new horse organization.

TROT (Trail Riders on Tour) of P.E.I., was active during the summer of 2008 and sits as a member of the IHC. The group held 13 rides last year, from Forrest Hills near Upton to Tignish. They are dedicated to safely exploring the magnificent back roads and trails of the Island, and usually finish their day with a social gathering.

Their last ride at Brookvale had 28 riders, a great turnout, but they go with however many show up. By the way, TROT made Charlie Goodwin a life member at the 2008 Awards Banquet.

Angelia MacKay is heading things up.

She says there might be an overnight camp or a moonlight ride to add variety in 2009.

The group is open to anyone who likes a

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leisurely ride in good company through wonderful scenery. How could anyone not like that prospect? You can reach MacKay at angelia85@hotmail.com or 902-886-3107.

Gerald Dixon sent along the news that

work on the second livestock housing building got underway before Christmas at the Crapaud Fairgrounds. A good facility is about to get even bigger and better.

So when will the Provincial Exhibition move to Crapaud?

Dressage PEI gave out its year-end

awards in November. The Adult Rider Championship went to Harma Germs and Whiscalina (71 percent average score) and

the Junior Champ was Tia Victoria Tawill on Pure Elegance (69 percent average score). Germs also won the five-year-old National Championship in second level dressage at the Blaineville show in the summer of 2008. Whiscalina is a New Perth Dutch Warmblood.

Jamie Ellis of the P.E.I. Cattle Pen-

ning Club says the Club had another active year in 2008. It held its AGM and annual awards banquet on Nov. 29. Members expressed their thanks to both John Rayner and Donnie Arsenault for volunteering to serve as directors.

Arsenault has also served as president for the past four years.

The Club added a Sportsmanship

ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY february 2009

division this year, which allowed newer penners to compete alongside more experienced riders and develop some of the essential skills. Also, as a fundraiser the Club sold tickets on a baby barn built

by Rayner. The lucky winner was Dylan Thompson.

Year end awards were as follows: Fastest Run of the Season: (Two Bit Ranch) Stewart Mutch, Fred Barrett, Jane Barrett (three cows in 37.26 seconds).

Six Division - Champion: (Bayview Farms) Shane Bernard, Jillian Cameron, Barry MacMillan; Reserve: (Westhill Stables) Danny Richard, Chuck MacDonald, Shane Bernard.

Open Division – Champion: (Bayview Farms) Danny Richard, John Rayner,

february 2009 ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY

Donald Philips; Reserve: (Pollock Farms) Stewart Mutch, Fred Barrett, Jane Barrett Sportsmanship Division - Champion: (Sunnybrook Farm Pet Supply) Danny Richard; Reserve: (Sunnybrook Farm Pet Supply) Lori Richard.

Winter doesn’t slow things down at

Jana Hemphill’s Storybook Stables. She hosted two Christmas camps for kids featuring riding, horse care, friendly competition, and lots of fun. Contact her at storybookstables1@hotmail.com for their winter schedule.

Pony Club people across Canada will celebrate in 2009 as the organization

marks its 75th anniversary. Plans are underway to use the year to build on the 30-year experience of the Club on the Island. District Commissioner Kim Saville (savillekim@hotmail.com) can give you details.

Mary Gallant of M&M Stables in

Bloomfield has a new business/labor of love that sounds really interesting. She calls the business Lucky Hooves. She traveled to Edmonton last summer to study and get herself qualified as a Certified Equine Guided Assisted Activities Practitioner.

Essentially, the business involves providing indoor miniature horse encounters for therapeutic and emotional purposes.

She will work with elderly, terminally

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ill, or disabled individuals who could benefit from contact with the horses. The miniatures are ideal for the job, she says, as amongst other things they are easier to get on and off elevators! She hopes to be up and running by this summer.

She’s partnering with the West Prince Horseman’s Association and will use the O’Leary racetrack as a headquarters. She’s already been visiting care facilities around the Island with her horses and 4-H Clubs singing Christmas carols. Kids, seniors, and horses all had a great time. You can reach her at m_mstables@route2.pe.ca.

That’s all I have for now. Winter well,

and don’t forget to send along your news for the next issue.

Share your news from Prince Edward Island: your club activities and tidbits about P.E.I. horses, owners and riders.

Write to Andy Robb at Box 5223, RR 5, Charlottetown, PE C1A 7J8,or contact him by phone at 902-894-5750, fax 902-628-4323, or by email to arobb@ pei.sympatico.ca.

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ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY february 2009

Newfoundland & Labrador Report with Ruth Story

Horses rescued from race track As I write this winter has not quite arrived

in Newfoundland (mid-December), and although many of the snowmobilers and ski hills are praying for snow, at Cache Rapids Stable we are hoping for another few weeks of mild weather. Our horses are still on pasture, and the longer the snow stays away, the less hay we will have to purchase. There appears to be a shortage of hay this year, and the prices have increased considerably.

was about 2am before the evacuation was completed. The water slowly subsided and the horses were returned to the barns on Monday evening once the cleanup was done.

The Newfoundland Equestrian Asso-

ciation (NEA) held its AGM, election of officers, and year-end banquet on Nov. 15 at Bally Hally Golf Club. The event was a

huge success and a great time was had by all. Congratulations to the newly-elected

Approximately 60 horses had to be

rescued from the stables at the St. John’s Racing and Entertainment Centre in Goulds on Nov. 29. Heavy rainfall caused serious flooding at the race track, which engulfed three barns. The problem was caused when two rivers that flow by the track and a nearby pond swelled over their banks. The water rose quickly and horse owners and volunteers waded through chest-high water to evacuate the animals and move them to higher ground, one by one. Some were led through the water from a bucket of a tractor and a mini was rescued in the bucket.

Many people went beyond the call of duty and refused to leave horses behind when one owner couldn’t be located. The horses were loaded aboard trailers and taken in by other farms in the area. Paul McDonald made room for 18 horses at his family’s farm in Kilbride and Jim Redmond at Southern Cross Stable took in quite a few as well. It

february 2009 ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY

Dinner time in the snow at Cache Rapids Stable’s farm near Deer Lake, Newfoundland and Labrador.

(Ruth Story photos)

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2009 Executive Board, consisting of: President, Katrina Butler; Past President, Chris Gallant; Vice President, Sheila Anstey; Secretary, Katie Murray; Treasurer, Cathy Favre; Directors at Large, Kathie Lane and Sharon Earle; and Junior Rep, Kelsey Goobie.

A number of special recognition awards were presented at the NEA banquet. They are as follows: Horsemanship award, Suzanne Lomholt Mortensen; Sportsmanship award, Danielle Bartlett; Most Improved Rider, Maria Bath; Volunteer of the Year award, Katie Murray and Marc Phanuff; Horse of the Year award, Pert’s Flight (Tex); and Industry Builder award, Ruth Story. High Point and Championship awards were also presented. Congratulations to all. Complete results can be viewed by following the NEA Year-End Awards link at www.AtlanticFarmer.com.

Special recognition goes to Chris Gallant, who stepped down from the President’s position of NEA this year after more than a decade of involvement with the group. She was always involved with the NEA in some way or other, from organizing countless coaching clinics and updates to setting up the speaker system at shows. She has been a devoted leader of the NEA and has spent countless hours mandating positive change for equestrian sport in Newfoundland. Thanks Chris, from all of us.

The Newfoundland Pony Society (NPS) held its AGM on Nov. 23 in St. John’s.

Kevin Stacey riding Yogi (Clydesdale x Nfld. Pony) and Jennifer Rumbolt riding Pepper (Tennessee Walker x Percheron) out for a winter ride near Deer Lake last December. Jennifer was home visiting from sunny California.

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Congratulations to the newly-elected Executive: Harry Hutchings, president; Kim England, vice president; Dawn LeMessurier, treasurer; Michelle Reid, registrar; and Wendy House, secretary.

The Society also announced the completion of the Electronic Registry Project, which includes digitizing the files on each registered Newfoundland Pony. The Society is actively looking for new members and those who would like to support preserving and promoting the Newfoundland Pony – an endangered pony with less than 400 registered animals in existence. The Society has members across Canada and the US. An individual membership is $20 and a family membership is $30 annually. Donations are always welcomed. More information can be found at www.AtlanticFarmer.com, follow the NPS link.

Clovelly Stables in St. John’s continues

to be busy this winter offering numerous clinics and events. A clinic was held on Nov. 15-16 with Nancy Kennedy, a Level 2 Western coach who specializes in reining.

This was followed by a Mary Lew Murray English Clinic on Dec. 6-7. Murray is a certified Equine Canada Level 1 instructor and is qualified to test within the Equine Canada Rider Level Program. Mel Grey delivered a massage clinic and reining lessons on Dec. 13 and 14, and then again on Jan. 17 and 18. Clovelly Riding also held its second annual Christmas show on Dec. 20 called “How the Grinch Stole Christmas (On Horseback).” This event was open to the general public with admission being a non-perishable food item for the food bank. The show concluded with a musical ride. Clovelly’s Christmas camp was held Dec. 28-31. A NADA Lynn Deturk

Angela Tulk, owner of Equine Meadows in the Goulds teaches lessons on a cold December morning.

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ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY february 2009

Dressage clinic was held in January and a Mary Lew Murray English clinic is planned for April.

Jessica Rhinelander of St. John’s and

her horse, Allende, traveled to Frankfurt, Germany, to compete in the prestigious fourth annual FEI Young Rider Dressage World Cup Final Dec. 17-21. Rhinelander and Allende placed 12th in Young Rider Team, 11th in Young Rider Individual, and 6th in Young Rider Consolation Freestyle.

Well done!

Rhinelander was identified by the FEI as the Canadian representative for the World Cup based on her 2008 results at FEI competitions. She competed against the top young riders from around the world, including Australia, Denmark, France, Great Britain, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Poland, Spain, Switzerland, and the U.S.

Congratulations to Colin Fitzpatrick of

ABC Stables in Seal Cove who competed in the NRHA futurity in Oklahoma on Nov. 26 to Dec. 6. He competed against some of the best reiners in the country and had a very respectable placing. His parents, Barbara Healey and Alan Fitzpatrick, attended the futurity, along with Katrina Butler of Sliding K Ranch.

Butler, of Sliding K Ranch in Seal Cove, also recently completed her new barn. She currently has nine horses stabled at her facility and offers both training and boarding, as well as farrier service. She held a reining clinic with Fitzpatrick in January.

Adventure

Farms in Grand FallsWindsor participated in the town’s annual Christmas parade with its horse, Sandy, pulling a cart. They were one of two horse floats in the parade. The stable also held its annual Christmas party with a horsedrawn toboggan, bonfire, games, and a wiener roast. A great time was had by all.

On Dec. 7, the Adventure Riding Club also provided pony rides for 130 children at the Tech Mining Christmas party as a fundraiser for the club.

Share your news from Newfoundland and Labrador: Your club activities and tidbits about Newfoundland people and horses.We would also love to receive photographs of you and your horse. Write to Ruth Story at Box 3848, Deer Lake, NL A8A 3M2, email horse@nf.sympatico.ca, or phone 709-635-5224. february 2009 ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY

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Atlantic Horse & Pony

Classified Advertisements HORSES FOR SALE: Norwegian Fjord fillies; half sisters, rising 3 yrs., hitched and driven on the sleigh and forecart, approx. 14.1 hh, wonderful temperaments, vaccinated, will sell separately or as a team. Email fjords@wightman. ca or phone 519-665-2303.

FOR SALE: Seven-year-old Quarter Horse mare, black bay with star, strip, and snip, one white hind foot, 15.1 hh, Maritime bred, goes Western and English, has been shown, used on trails, wormed, needled, trailers well.

Phone 902-523-1559 and leave name and number.

AVAILABLE: Herb Best Quarter Horses: Horses for Sale, Breeding, Training, Clinics, Lessons; Tack Shop. Visit website @ www.krymsunfarms.ca. (02:6i)

FOR SALE: Team of 4-year-old Belgian geldings, shown at fall fair, good movers, both broke single and double, been in all hitches, $5,000. Phone 506-367-2534.

WANTED: Your classified ad here. Free to subscribers to Horse & Pony.

Call 1-877-354-3764 or go to www.AtlanticFarmer.com to subscribe.

FOR SALE: 14-year-old registered Rocky Mountain mare, 14.1 hh, chocolate with flaxen mane and tail, trained English, natural smooth gait, up to date with needles, dewormed, good with vet and farrier, good barn manners, gets along well with other horses, lots of

energy, only reason for selling is she’s not being used, owner has no time for her, asking price $5,000. Phone 902-538-7174.

FOR SALE: Two American miniature horse mares: one AMHR registered mare, “A” division, fully harness and saddle broke, road safe, sorrel, white mane and tail, asking $1,500; also a red/white Pinto mare, can be AMHR registered, not harness broke, a lot of ground work done, asking $1,200; both very quiet, used to children, both with my AMHR registered Appaloosa stallion all summer of 2008 so may be pregnant, serious inquiries only.

Phone 709-588-2012.

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE: Heavy-duty built twohorse/stock trailer, stainless steel sides, plank floor, ramp load, dual axle with brakes, removeable centre divider, large roomy trailer, $3,000; also a 27” draft horse collar in good condition. Phone 902-396-4391.

FOR SALE: Sierra Western Cordura saddle, 16”, full Quarter Horse bars, black with silver conchos, comes with saddle blanket, black latigo, cinch, excellent condition, asking $400. Please call 506-433-8636 or email hettyian@ nb.sympatico.ca.

FOR SALE: Horse sled, new condition, always stored inside, $500. Phone 506-548-5829 evenings.

FOR SALE: Brand new 17” black Western saddle, never used, Suitable for draft or large horse, Asking $300.

Call 902-226-3271.

FOR SALE: Rubber stall mats, 4’ x 6’ x 3/4”, $45 each. Call Mike, 902-4409516. (12:3i) FOR SALE: English draft saddle, 18” seat, black, dressage type, comfortable, all leather, comes with stirrups and leathers, asking $500, can be seen in Sussex, N.B., would trade for a 17” dressage saddle. Email hettyian@nb.sympatico. ca or phone 506-433-8636.

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ODDS ’N SODS WANTED: New stable opening, indoor ring and outdoor ring, nice quiet country area in Cape Breton, N.S. We are looking for a lady to teach lessons and horse training. Rider has to be small enough to ride ponies. Furnished living quarters provided. Please email cbponypride@live.ca.

WANTED: Parts for a tractor; 20-ton wood splitter; piston; hoses; valve; etc. Phone 902-787-3008.

FOR SALE: Nubians, Alpines, Boers, and Boer-Nubian cross doelings, also one unrelated male dehorned NubianBoer cross, only 5 months old; would make a great starter herd for someone.

Phone 902-641-2313.

FOR SALE: Parting out a 250 Belarus farm tractor, also parting out a Model 1902 Kubota 4-cylinder engine, used in many skid steers. Phone: 902863-2943.

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Directory of Advertisers FOR SALE: Blueberry rake(s), 35 tooth, good condition, 12” w x 9” d x 4” h, $40 each. Phone 902-634-4591.

FOR S A L E : 1 9 8 9 I n t e r n a t i o n a l 5-speed truck, 150,000 mi, good

condition, runs well, air suspension, new 8.5’ x 22’ deck, low profile, trailer hitch, straps and steel posts, customized for hauling blueberries, $8,500.

Email hjsullivan@hjsconsultants.com or phone 902-735-3080.

ABOUT CLASSIFIED ADS Subscribers are invited to run four, non-commercial classified ads free per year.

NOTE: “Free ads” may be edited. Horse names and pedigrees cannot be included.

Please be concise when describing horses or other articles for sale.

It’s Easy by Internet Now you can submit classified ads via our website at www.AtlanticFarmer.com. Click on “Post Classifieds” Subscriber free ads must be identified. Include your full name, postal code, telephone number, subscription expiry date. No third party ads accepted.

Real estate, stallions at stud, and sale of horses and equipment by breeders, dealers, and equine businesses are considered commercial. The rate for commercial ads is 75 cents per word, $20 minimum plus 13 percent HST. Include payment with ad. Classified ads also accepted by mail: Horse & Pony, Box 1509, Liverpool, NS B0T 1K0.

4 U Trailer Sales..................................................21 Aaron Martin Harness Ltd....................................56 Amber Sky Stables..............................................48 Animat.................................................................13 Annapolis Valley Peat Moss................................38 Appt Transportation & Auction Centre.................15 Atlantic Horse Fair...............................................24 Big Bale Buddy....................................................49 Canadian Sport Horse Association......................11 Can-Am All Breeds Equine Emporium................27 Cariboo Outback Saddles & Supplies...................8 Clarence Farm Services Limited.........................58 Colchester Community Workshops.....................46 Co-op Atlantic......................................................34 Cottage Graphics and Design.............................49 D&D Stables........................................................49 Deerhorn Equine Ranch......................................25 Di Martino Farm.................................... Inside back EMB MFG Inc........................................................6 Equine Excellence Ltd.........................................38 Equine Rehabilitation Centre...............................51 Equine Review.....................................................50 Equi-Trac...........................................................9 Equus Centre.......................................................11 Evergreen Riding Centre.....................................46 Fiske’s Hoof & Hide Balm....................................22 Foulger’s Custom Leather & Saddlery.................48 Four Feet On the Ground Giftware......................28 Galla Lane Ranch..................................................5 George Lyons Realtor.........................................49 Green Diamond Equipment...................Inside front Greenhawk Harness & Equestrian Supplies.......33 Henry Equestrian Insurance Brokers...................18 Hobby Horse Farm..............................................48 Ashland Farm......................................................53 Intercity Insurance Services................................55 Jorrock Stables....................................................49 Kaiser Stud............................................................7 King Ridge Stables..............................................45 Kubota Canada....................................................20 Leshaven Hackney Pony Farm...........................11 Maple Lane Equestrian Trailers...........................15 Maritime Featherlite Trailer Sales Ltd..................54 MGR Canada.......................................................55 Michael Burke......................................................19 NCF Farms..........................................................29 New Holland Agriculture......................................32 Nice Nags Tack...................................................57 N M Ferri Fencing................................................15 Norsteel Buildings Limited...................................52 North Stream Farm Tack Shop............................52 Nova Scotia Agricultural College...........................4 Nova Tree............................................................55 Nusite Building Solutions.......................Back cover Paints R Us Stable..............................................25 Pictou Mutual Insurance Company......................26 Professional Farrier Services..............................54 Richvale Saddlery................................................48 Road Apples Pet & Equestrian Essentials...........48 Robins Glen Sport Horses...................................37 Sackville Harness Ltd..........................................52 Sandridge Saddlery.............................................40 Shur-Gain............................................................13 Spent Penny Ranch.............................................25 Sundowner Trailers.............................................49 System Fencing stalls & Equipment....................12 Tarp-Rite Inc........................................................36 The Wool Table Sheepskin.................................48 Totally Hemp.........................................................7 Two Fair Mares....................................................57 University of Guelph............................................44 Valley FlaxFlour...................................................47 Wallace McNutt Sales.........................................39 Wayne’s Saddlery Boot & Harness.....................44 Western Rawhide & Harness MFG.....................54 Windswept Farm II...............................................37 Windy Cove Stables..............................................5 Windy River Stables..............................................5 Woody Pet...........................................................46

To Advertise Call 902-354-2500 PAGE 58

ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY february 2009

february 2009 ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY

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ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY february 2009