Baroque Horse ~ Issue 24

ES T 20 11

ISSUE 24

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INTERVIEWS WITH CHERE BURGER, ALTER REAL STUD, PACO MARTI $9.95NZD

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Melbourne Showgrounds 17 - 20 NOVEMBER 2016

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CONTENTS

w h a t ’ s

i n s i d e

ISSUE 24

08

Chere Burger Interview

18

Paco Marti Interview

26

Bridleless with Matilde Brandt

32

Arena GPS Training Exercises

By Thomas Ritter

40

Alter Real Stud

48

Discovering the Lusitano Through Photography

56

Bloodless Bullfight Part II

By Kathryn Barrett

62

Skin and Coat Nutrition

64

Internal Parasites of Horses

68

Five Keys to Competent Decision Making

By Carla Bauchmueller

72

Saddle Fitting

by Jochen Schleese, CMS, CSFT, CSE

76

A herbalist View on Equine Diet

By Cath McDowell

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5 Handy Hints

By Dr John Kohnke BVSc

ON THE COVER: Photo by Katya Druz of Lusitano Stallion 'Xajarro' during the photographic workshop with Lusitano World.

Full article pg48

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E D I T O R S

I

2016

just wanted to say a big Thank You for all those who went to the effort to either call, email, Facebook post or message us, to let us know how much you enjoyed Katheryn's Bloodless Bullfighting article. Naturally, we were concerned that people would be up in arms without reading it as the informative article that it was. In this issue, we have part two which looks at the life of a bull, how they are selected and how this tradition has helped shape the horse to what it is today. We do hope you enjoy these next two articles.

can only strengthen whatever you do do with your horse. Recently I shared on Facebook a fantastic and incredibly inspirational video of the talented GP and WEG rider Manual Veiga, riding in a field with other horses while riding his stallion bareback and bridleless doing flying changed and canter pirouettes. I would hope that this can show that bridleless is something all (no matter what sport you may do) can have some fun with, but of course, its ever so important that it's done slowly and safely.

For those of you who are regulars of the magazine will know that I'm big believer that developing a relationship with your horse as is more important than just hopping on their back. To me, there is a combination of both on the ground and ridden. In the past we've looked at liberty and in hand work and in this issue, we're treated to have an article by Matilde Brandt on riding bridleless. In my opinion, being able to ride your horse like this is the ultimate test of your relationship and connection with your horse. Some might feel that they are serious dressage or western sports people, and that bridleless isn't for you. I believe this sort of riding

One saying that many of us have heard on many occasions is 'a good horse has no colour' and yes that is true. However, sometimes its just so hard not to love a good colour on a horse. In this issue, we talk to the most renown PRE stud for breeding colour, Paco Marti. He breeds horses of all colours, however, specialises in the dilutes. He has many amazing colours and variations, and it's hard not to be impressed by it all. Paco has worked very hard over the years to grow his stud to what it is today and to not only working on colour but also doing so in a way that's not losing the quality and morphology of the breed.

N O T E

Another renowned stud that's hard not to love is the Alter Real Royal Stud Farm in Portugal. We had a great chat in regards to breeding and their history, auctions, what they've got planned for the future. If you're a keen Lusitano fan, this is one you'd definitely enjoy!

I also wanted to take this opportunity to let you all know that in our next issue we'll be having our first DRESSAGE special feature issue! This is something we've been thinking about for a while, and we can't wait to be put this together for you. It'll be a full issue on dressage, training and people involved.

We hope you enjoy this issues and as always welcome your thoughts, comments, and feedback.

erman k S e l l e i n a D Editor-in-Chief

www.baroquehorsemagazine.com

ALTER REAL STALLION - "RABELO AR".

PHOTO BY RITA FERNANDES

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Chere Burger BAROQUE HORSE talks to

BY

Danielle Skerman

ARTICLE: Danielle Skerman PHOTOS: Supplied

The rise of the Baroque horses in the dressage world is becoming ever more evident. Recently in 2014, a world first happened with Chere Burger riding Adelprag Anders 451 (a Friesian) at the World Equestrian Games (WEG) in France, Normandy.

With the previous domination of the Warmblood for competitive dressage, we had never before had a Friesian at such prestige and highlevel competition. This was a dream come true for Chere and the fantastic Adelprag team; they are now role models and inspiration for hundreds of thousands of Friesian lovers and riders around the world.

C

here like many grew up with a love of horses and riding.

It wasn't until she was an adult that she had her first experience riding a Friesian.

A Friesian that stole her heart and the rest is history. We had the pleasure to chat to Chere about her life with horses and what the future hopes she has for them.

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I love the discipline of it. I love how the invisible communication between horse and rider makes everything look so perfect and as if they are one.

No matter how many mistakes you make, or how slow your progress might be, you are still way ahead of everyone who isn’t trying!

 BH: Why Friesians? How did all that come about?

CB: In 2005 I joined Adelprag Friesian Stud as Stud Manager and Rider. This was my first ever contact with Friesians. I discovered that they are very willing and forgiving horses, and once you’ve earned their trust they will do anything within their capability to satisfy.

Their magnificent presence, their friendly temperament, and character make them a very special breed to work with. Plus they are also very intelligent. But the most honest answer to this question is that I became very successful with the Friesians, and there is a strong bond I have with them.

Chere and Adelprag Anders 451 competing at WEG 2014 Normandy France.

Photo Catia Castro 

Chere and Adelprag Anders 451 competing at WEG 2014 Normandy France.

Photo Catia Castro 

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 BH: Do you have any riders or trainers that are your inspiration? People who have influenced you in your riding?

CB: People who inspired me the most were Anky Van Grunsven on Salinero and then Edward Gal on Totilas. Horses that inspired me the most, Totilas for sure! Then Imke Schellekens Bartels became part of my international career.

She taught me a lot of things and together with her mother, Tineke Bartels, they showed me how to prepare for Top Sport before my WEG journey during 2014.

 BH: Hi Chere, thank you for taking the time to talk to us. Can you please tell us how you got into horses, why dressage and how did it all begin?

CB: I did not show any interest in horses until the age of seven. It just happened by accident on the day my parents visited some friends, and their daughter was riding, and I was fascinated by these noble creatures. So, my riding career started in 1990 with a focus on show jumping.

My interest in dressage began in 2001 at the South African Equestrian Academy where I completed my South African National Equestrian Federation Level 1 Instructor’s qualification.

My dressage career commenced in 2005 when I joined Adelprag Friesian Stud as Stud Manager and Rider. I started showing some REAL interest in dressage when I saw a South African rider competing at a show one year at Grand Prix level.

They stole my heart and only then I wanted to do dressage. It was like poetry in motion!  BH: What is it about dressage that inspires and motivates you?

CB: I love the harmony between horse and rider.

 BH: What would be your most memorable moments in your career?

CB: I have three memorable moments that stand out for me. They are; 1.) In the South African Championships 2013 when I rode my personal best on Adelprag Arjen in the Grand Prix Freestyle with a percentage of 69.75% with five international judges!

2.) I wanted to prove that a Friesian could compete successfully in dressage in South Africa.

Winning the South African Championships four years in a row with Adelprag Arjen, and the 5th year on Adelprag Fernhill Derry (Warmblood).

This has never been achieved by anyone!

3.) The pinnacle of my equestrian career was certainly competing at the World Equestrian Games 2014 on Adelprag Anders 451.  BH: Has there ever been any particular horse that has made a significant impact on who you are as a rider today?

CB: I get a lump in my throat with this question… I need to take a moment to be able to answer this without all the tears and sadness in

me. There was only this one horse up to date that has won everything for me from the bottom of his heart, and the most special horse in my life was Adelprag Arjen, a Friesian stallion.

Chere and Adelprag Arjen 

 BH: What’s your fondest moment with horses?

What is it about them that makes you want to do what you do?

CB: Looking at them, I see my hopes and dreams. Touching them, I feel joy and serenity.

Riding them, I connect with my soul. Being with them, I am who I am meant to be!! Being with them every day makes me most happy! And when they are happy, I’m even happier!  BH: Congrats on your achievement at WEG. How did it feel to ride out there with such an audience, knowing you were the first to ride a Friesian at this level? Do you have any standout memories of this that you can share with us?

CB: It was an UNFORGETTABLE ride with Adelprag Anders 451 at the World Equestrian Games 2014 in France. Wow!! What an amazing feeling that was! Something you can’t explain

CHERE BURGER

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Chere and Adelprag Anders 451 

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in words but I can remember very clearly the thought of how very privileged and proud I was to be a South African equestrian athlete! It is not possible for me to describe the enormity of the impact at the moment of entering the arena had on me, the atmosphere was electric. There was a mixture of feelings going through me from being very emotional and overwhelmingly happy!!  BH: I could just imagine it would have been a very overwhelming experience to ride at WEG. How was it in the selection and leading up to the competition?

CB: It was tough out there. My first qualifying score for WEG was in the Czech Republic, Brno.

It was such a super feeling to know I was one step closer to my dream. The second qualifier was in the Netherlands, Nieuw Sint Joosland and then we were then selected for the South African Team shortlist. When they announced the team to go to WEG, it was very unreal for me. It took a while to really realize that my dream (to ride a Friesian at WEG) was actually going to happen!

Furthermore, it was the first time that a South

African Team was competing at WEG. I was living the dream from beginning to end!  BH: Wow, that really sounds like a double achievement for you! You are definitely a huge inspiration for competitive dressage for Friesian owners all around the world. What advice would you give to those who dream the big dream on international representation?

CB: First of all… Believe In Yourself!! No matter how many mistakes you make, or how slow your progress might be, you are still way ahead of everyone who isn't trying! Never let your ambition to win destroy your pleasure to ride!

It takes hard work and an enormous amount of time and guts to get out there with a Friesian and do Top Sport. It is also important to make sure horse and rider are compatible, and that a special bond should be established.  BH: The Friesian has become very popular with many riders for the dressage sport. How do you find them to ride and do you feel they will get more competitive with changes to breeding?

CHERE BURGER

CB: The Friesians are colder to ride. You have to ride with a lot more leg power to do Top Sport. They are willing, forgiving and positive horses to work with, and they want to work for you. The breeders have already changed a lot in the breeding programs to make the Friesians lighter and sportier. I believe the breeding must always be achieved without losing the breed characteristics.  BH: At what point did Anders 451 catch your eye and what feeling did he gave you that made you know he would be special?

CB: Riding him was a special event for me because I have never had the privilege of riding a Studbook Stallion of such quality before. I straight away noticed his soft, kind eye and the air of wisdom and kindness that surrounded him. I liked him instantly.

Another unique aspect of our visit was that I, during a previous occasion, had the honour of riding the father of Anders 451, Adel 357, who also competed successfully in Grand Prix. So then, riding Anders was truly a case of "like father, like son!"

I love the harmony between horse and rider.

I love the discipline of it. I love how the invisible communication between horse and rider makes everything look so perfect and as if it is one...

 BH: With any dressage or sports horse it's imperative to keep them sound and fit. Can you share with us a typical week and how you like to school the horses?

CB: I keep my everyday training the same as my competition training. The only

difference is that my daily training is that I break it up into different sections/ exercises over a six day period versus my competition training I have to prepare everything in one session before competing. Once a week I do like to ride through the Grand Prix test to make sure everything fits in well together as if I have a competition. I keep the same exercise lines in everyday training as it is in the test. Nothing changes – collection stays collection, straightness stays straightness. About two weeks before a competition I slow down my training and only a few days before I start peaking again. I have always been a rider that believes in the principles of classical riding and will always train all my horses that way. I believe that trust and confidence are formed by a repetition of positive performance for both parties, and this takes time.

Adelprag Stud farm from the air

Relief at the end of their test at WEG 2014 with Chere and Adelprag Anders 451.

Photo Catia Castro 

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Looking at them, I see my hopes and dreams.

Touching them, I feel joy and serenity. Riding them, I connect with my soul.

Being with them, I am who I am meant to be! Being with them every day makes me most Happy!

Chere riding Wybren Van Ass (Maiko 373) 

 BH: What are the goals for the future? Is Rio on the cards?

CB: Rio was on the cards, but unfortunately Rio qualification as a South African Team did not happen for us.  BH: You have recently imported two new Friesian stallions Laes and Wybren, and also a mare Aurelia.

Can you tell us a bit about them? What are your goals / plans for them?

CB: Aurelia Van Ass (Sired: Dries 421) and Wybren Van Ass (Sired: Maiko 373) are half brother and sister. They came from the same mother line.

Laes Fan’t Alddjip (Jisse 433 / Sjaard 320) we bought as a five-year-old for a future prospect.

My goal for Wybren is to compete with him competitively in South Africa at Grand Prix level.

And for Aurelia my goal would be to have her as the first Friesian mare to compete in South Africa at Grand Prix level. The progress of both would determine their international career for the future.  BH: What horses do you have in your stables at the moment?

CB: At the moment we have 67 horses on the farm which includes weanlings, broodmares, Friesian crossbreds, Warmbloods, Friesian sports horses, client’s horses and training horses.  BH: What’s an average day like for you?

CB: Wake up at 6:30 a.m every morning. Get dressed and have coffee before going to the stables.

The day then starts at 7:30 at the stables, between 7:30 and 8:30 it’s feeding time, checking horses, doing stable / stud management and having

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breakfast. At 8:30 it is time to start to riding and I would work 11 horses a day. Normally, I finish around 3:00 - 3:30 pm then I have late lunch. After lunch back at the stables doing the same as in the mornings. At 5:00 pm I do a final check on all the horses before going home. Then I prepare dinner, shower do some office work and then off to bed around 9:30om.  BH: You have a passion for the Friesian horses.

What is it you like most about them? What do you feel are their strengths in the dressage arena?

CB: I would say due to their amazing temperament, willingness to work, talent, adjustability, and kind-heartedness, it’s hard enough not to fall in love with them. Once a trusting bond is formed, you are partners for life.

Their strengths in the dressage arena, first of all, would be their presence. They are very proud horses with a lot of self-confidence. Riding wise they are extremely good in sitting or pushing like in the piaffe/passage and canter pirouettes. Even their extended trots are well balanced and uphill.

Some are really good in the tempi changes too. a

Thank You Chere

for taking the time to talk to us, we have thoroughly enjoyed it and greatly look forward to your bright future with your wonderful Friesians! 

MarkusV

STANDING AT STUD

arkus V is a 16.2hh, jet black, Friesian stallion. Since being imported to Australia in 2014 from Holland he has been campaigning with a young rider. He has shown he has an amazing personality and temperament, as well as fantastic ride ability, being easy to control both on the ground and in the saddle. His Fairy tale appearance with his masses of Mane, tail and feather make him appealing and suitable for both photo shoots and other events. As well as the looks, Markus has proven very talented in the dressage arena having won Medium competitions scoring in the mid 60’s.

Markus is now school Advanced with a young rider and we plan on starting him in the Advanced level this year. Markus currently has a beautiful purebred colt on the ground in australia, he has several more foals due at the end of the year.

Markus is also available for Photo shoots or other events. Contact us for information.

Markus V is standing in Heatherbrae, NSW Available via Live Cover and AI (chilled semen)

STUD

STUD FEE $1600.00 (NO GST) FEE INC $300.00 NON-REFUNDABLE HANDLING FEE. Please contact Bryce Russell on 0419903038 or email bryce_r_1998@hotmail.com

Breeders of the

Friesian, Andalusian, Iberian and Warlander

Located in Victoria Australia

EMAIL: LISALEITCH@GMAIL.COM TELEPHONE: 0400518704

www.facebook.com/Noble-Shadow-Friesian-and-Andalusian-Horse-StudWarlanders-194594647225421/

Photographs by: Art Photography By Kira Photography

M

(IMP)

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Jolle Z

came into our lives by pure chance; we recently traveled to the Uk and The Netherlands to fulfill that lifelong dream of riding a Friesian in Friesland.

We visited Stal Hermes in Sint Jacobiparochie, and it was breathtaking with amazing stallions as far as the eye could see. We looked through a lot of the stables each and horse was different; we rode a few, and I was on cloud nine. Then Jolle Z came out, and there was something different with this horse once I sat on him I felt like we had been together for years! His

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INSIDER

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IN G AM AZ

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JOLLE IO AT RM O F IN

expressive movement, loving nature and breathtaking looks helped to seal the deal. We wanted a horse to be a member of the family, not just a pretty horse in the paddock and we found him, well I say that Jolle Z found us!

We rode him outside the stable block and saw him glisten in the sun then trotting with such expression and purpose - it was a heart stopping moment. After working him, we took him to the wash bay and even with no halter or bridle on he stood there with me head buried under my arm for cuddles at this moment I knew he had to come home to Australia.

The tricky part came next, we had found the perfect horse now how did

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ON

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we get him home couldn’t send him via post, so I called IRT horse transport, they were fantastic with one simple phone call it was all organised. They guided us through each step which made the whole experience a lot less stressful. Jolle Z was one of the last flights into Eastern Creek before they closed the doors and moved their quarantine facility. Jolle Z happened to land at the worst time last year when the big heat wave went through Sydney with close to 40-degree temperatures, but they were on top of that making sure he was settled and cool.

Jolle Z is by Beart 411 who has

won the World Championship twice, quite an incredible horse; his dam is

by Ait 410 which is great bloodlines to bring to Australia! Jolle Z was not our first Friesian we also own Lucius, who is by Geert W, Lucius played the infamous Diablo in some of the Saddle Club TV series and was trained by Grahame Ware Jnr. He does photo shoots, film shoots and loves his dressage. Elmer Van Gelder is another purebred at out stables his is by Maurus 441. He has now started an incredible new dressage career with Summer Cutmore and they are a fantastic combination. There are also two part bred Friesians in our stables including our beautiful broodmare Dark and Stormy Mirage by Remier and the cute and very cuddly Triple C Ragnara gypsy cob cross Friesian by Samson from Denmore Park, and he will be retained for stud.

Life in Australia is very different for Jolle Z, and he has settled into the family really well; he loves his cuddles and everyone watching him - he does like to show off!

Jolle Z has been excelling doing some liberty work and of course loves his dressage work, and he thrives on the idea of a challenge. His future at Triple C Friesians is that he always

be in our family now. Professionally speaking he will be out there to support the breed as much as we can, doing expos, shows, and displays throughout QLD. In the dressage world, the sky is the limit we will aim to go as high as we can, and we can't forget photoshoots as we love to give the public the chance to ride these majestic animals and feel glamorous for a day. Jolle Z does have a nickname at Triple c Friesians; my 5-year-old son has trouble saying Jolle Z so he calls him Lolly. We thought we could use this and have a play on words, and thought of Lolly being ‘The Candyman�, and we would like to welcome Jolle Z known as The Candyman! Does your mare have a sweet tooth?! So the new advertising campaign was born !

Jolle Z will be having his next collection at Marburg Vets in August 2016, and there will be fresh, chilled and frozen semen available. Please do not hesitate to call us to come and meet such a stunning horse for your next breeding prospects. Please phone us on +61 408 730 887 or ccchorses@ hotmail.com or watch this amazing man on our Facebook page facebook. com/TripleCFriesians.

DOES YOUR MARE HAVE A

Sweet Tooth?

Tooth?

Sweet Triple C Friesians Presents

A ZI N G M A

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Z

$1000 Service Fee + AI Fees | Contact Kate: 0408730887 | Facebook.com/TripleCFriensians

Photos by katarzyna okrzesik

PACOMARTí

BY Baroque Horse Magazine

interview

When it comes to colour and in particular the dilutes in the Pura Raza Española (PRE) there is one stud that has established themselves as the clear leaders in this. With over 200 horses on over 400 hectares (a combination of four properties) is clear to see why Yeguada Paco Martí stands out from the rest. The stud farm is located in Spain in the Castellon region; a geographic area declared as one of best microclimates in Spain to breed horses.

Yeguada Paco Martí has been and still is the first in the world to specialize in the breeding of dilute purebred Spanish horses. These horses not only stand out from a crowd with their amazing colours and beauty but also for their correct morphology.

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BHM: Can you share with us the history of the Paco Marti stud?

PM: My passion for horses began at the very early age of two as my father used to take me to ride horses with him. He was fond of riding horses mainly in the fields but wasn´t interested in breeding. At the age of six, my parents took me to a rejoneo corrida (these are kind of special corridas where horses exhibit in their skills in the art of rejoneo). And I fell in love with a horse from Rafael Peralta whose name was SOL (the horse later appeared in the movie Bolero starring Bo Derek). From this moment on I knew this was my kind of horse and years later at the age of 16 my father (aware of my great passion for PRE) bought a PRE stud for me, with Cartujano origins, and

this is when I began the quest for the buckskin coat. With Zacharias, who died at a young age, and Carmelo II, both buckskins of my stud, I began to look all over Spain in the quest of some other buckskin horses (always admitted at ANCCE studbook), and later I purchase Pegaso IV (with Cartujanos and Yeguada military origins). Then came the constant incorporation of mares, always from similar or same origins to always open new lines and always looking for the best in PRE, which is for me beauty and nobility.

BHM: Do you ride yourself?

PM: Yes, I do. Revoltoso XXIX, who is my favourite.

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PRE Stallion Revoltoso XXIX ď ° BHM: What are your breeding lines?

Where are they from (e.g. Carthusian?

PM: Yes, most of them are from very old Carthusian lines.

BHM: What characteristics define the horses of this breeding lines you use?

PM: The horses we breed are horses with a lot of expression, class, long necks, round and powerful croups, with the right and necessary bone as they are not horses for loading works, small and thin ears but mostly a lot of nobility.

BHM: Past and present, which stallions and mares have been the most influential?

PM: Past: Horses of most influence had been our stallions PEGASO IV, CARMELO II and REVOLTOSO XXIX, who are still active now.

Present: DIVO PM, BRONCO PM and some other new stallions that have been recently added to our breeding program such as KLON , QUITASUEĂ‘O , SOL PMII e ISMAELI. When it comes to mares, BATURRA is a great asset and some others also like DESPIERTA who is Dam of a Spanish champion right now.

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BHM: What is the most important characteristics/morphology when looking for a mare?

PM: Beauty, class, racial movements (not the ones of the central European horses) and nobility.

BHM: When looking at a group of young horses what is involved in making a selection for future breeding stock (apart from colour) PM: Beauty, docile nature, correct morphology, movements and good poise.

BHM: What is the program with the young horses? At what age do they commence their education or join the breeding stock?

PM: When foals are weaned they go through a period of basic training and routines and are evaluated every six months for a follow-up of their evolution in motion and development. Then we decide what to do with each one of them, but they all grow up in fields in semi-liberty and always in contact with the nature to maintain their physical and mental balance.

When they reach a year of age males are separated from females.

Paco Marti

Isabel mare in the field 

BHM: How do you now find the reception is to the Spanish horses in international dressage competition?

PM: Very positive, the impact it is having is fantastic.

BHM: How do you see the Spanish horse breeding today? Do you feel it has changed to create a more commercial horse for dressage sport?

PM: I think this is positive, a bit obsessive maybe with the classical dressage, but everything that can improve the breed is good and welcome, as long as we don´t sacrifice the unique and innate beauty of the breed and show full respect for their elevations in their movements.

BHM: What is involved in a typical day at the Paco Marti stud?

PM: First thing in the morning manager reviews all horses one by one, while other staff take care of the food and clean the stables. The stallions are taken for a walk, then they wash them, mount them, etc.

The horses we breed are horses with a lot of expression, class, long necks, round and powerful croups, with the right and necessary bone PRE stallions Ismaeli & Bronco PM 

Mares and foals in a field 

The afternoon is saved for reproduction matters, inseminations or covering of the mares, always assisted by a veterinarian, as well as births.

BHM: For our readers reading this, do you have any advice for them on understanding the breed?

PM: For me it is easy, this is the most

21

A variety of different coloured PRE mares  PRE stallion Quitasueño VII  PRE stallion Sol PM  beautiful, noble and elegant animal that is suitable for any rider.

BHM: When would be the best time of year to visit?

PM: Spring is the best time as in summer you have higher temperatures. We aren't always able to receive visitors on a general basis as I'm not always at stud, and we can´t attend all requests. But when it is possible we try to arrange some visits.

PRE stallion Divo PM q

BHM: What sort of variety of colours available at the stud farm and which is the hardest and rarest of these colours to breed?

PM: All kind of colour are bred. All colours should be available but availability at a certain moment depends on demand and randomization too. Not always same availability each year. Isabelo and Perlino are the hardest.

We would like to say a big thank Paco for taking the time to talk to us. a

Majestic SPANISH HORSES

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PICARO PM & RAYADILLO SG NTH QLD, TEL: 07 4093 1042 E: MA JESTICHORSES@BIGPOND.COM

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CAMPEON HERMOSO

CAMPEON HERMOSO is a true nonfading black Baroque type Pre Spanish and AAHA registered 12yo 15.3HH Andalusian stallion and his name means’ Beautiful Champion’ in Spanish.

Loved by everyone that sees him and rides and handles him.

Campeon Hermoso or affectionately called ‘Osi’ will produce your dream Andalusian or Partbred Andalusian for competition or pleasure riding.

He has super elevated movement with excellent extensions and the kindest and most gentle temperament typical of the Andalusian horses.

Rosewood Park has many foals

by Osi crossed with various breeds, due this season, that will be offered for sale.

Stud and sales enquiries to Stud Manager on +61431577253 or email rosewoodhorses@gmail.com

Established in 1972 and the only Association in Australia to hold the stud books for the Purebred Spanish Andalusian, the Australian Andalusian, the Partbred Andalusian, the Hispano-Arabe and the Purebred Iberian (this registry is shared with the Lusitano Horse Association of Australia)

FOR INFORMATION ON THE BREED

Contact Andalusian Horse Association of Australasia (inc) PO Box 266, Torquay, Victoria, Australia 3228.

Telephone: 61 5263 3402 Email: ahaa@iprimus.com.au www.ahaa.org.au

PHOTO: Linn Bjerkseth

Bridleless BY

YES, ITS POSSIBLE Many riders dream of being able to ride their horses without tack. I mean, cantering in a field without a bridle, enjoying the feeling of total freedom, having the closest connection possible together with such a majestic creature. Yes, please! But where do I start?

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P

Matilde Brandt

HOW TO GET STARTED

ersonally, I have dreamed about that since I first started riding horses, but I was convinced that only professionals would be able to achieve this. Now, five years after I first introduced my twelve years old Friesian (Batman) to bridleless riding, I know very well that with time and dedication, many riders can learn how to train their horses to be ridden bridleless with a neck rope.

As a dressage rider myself, I have learned so much from riding bridleless. It has made a huge difference to everything! How you see the horse, how you should ask

instead of demand and how a horse who is allowed to express himself in freedom becomes more outgoing and proud in his movements. It has been an amazing experience, and now I am combining classical dressage with riding tackless.

However, it all is a long process.

You cannot just mount your horse, throw away the bridle and go for a hack and cross fingers that it will work. Most horses today are trained to listen to signals through reins, and you must teach them the signals given by your neck rope as well. It will be a part of the horses education. u

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PHOTO: Maria Weidemann

All riders should aim for light aids, small signals and a horse ridden from the seat. Trying to use the reins as little as possible now and then can help you along the way and give you a real kick-start. I have ridden Batman with a Cordeo (a neck rope that can be made from, for example, rope, leather or even bailing twine) for five years, and I still ALWAYS keep in mind that he might be so scared of something and that he will try to escape the danger. I know how to read him extremely well; I know how to read his breath, changes in his movement and expression, and we have never had one single accident so far – but I still take the necessary precautions. Even when we are just riding inside the arena, I’m always very careful. No matter how close your relationship with your horse is, we must keep in mind that horses have instincts, and even horses ridden bridleless for many years can spook.

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So no, your “bond” is not necessarily strong enough to handle a dangerous situation in a large field even if this is the umpteenth time you

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Riding with a neck rope can be a great experience for both horse and rider, but remember, SAFETY FIRST! Wear a helmet, and use a bridle for support in the beginning.

thebridle

are trying riding without reins on a horse that has been ridden with reins all his life. But you can start this journey in a safe way.

thing is your body, and this is an excellent opportunity to educate your seat.

You are not riding with your neck rope; you are riding with your body and mind. You should never depend on your reins or on your neck rope either. You are not slowing down or steering with the neck rope itself; you are riding the horse with your seat and body. The Cordeo can be a great tool to bring the attention back to you, or to give more precise signals combined with our primary aid (the seat), but you don’t just sit there and ride with your hands.

SAFETY FIRST, DON’T PUT YOURSELF IN DANGER

HOW TO GET STARTED

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the beginning, teaching the horse to walk in a circle can be done like this: Use your regular bridle. Walk around for a few minutes with loose reins, and try to distract the horse as little as possible. Then, look in the direction you are heading. If the horse turns, it's welleducated and starting bridleless will be easy.

If he is not responding, give the aid with your seat. If that does not work, use your seat even more precisely. If that does not work, add a little bit of leg (don’t kick your horse, use all your aids very softly!) Still no response?

Pick up your reins carefully and ride into the circle, and then reward a lot and take a break.

It won’t take too long before your horse gets more responsive, because your aids are more sensitive, and suddenly your horse is seatridden. Adding a lot of praise when the horse understands your signals will make the process even easier. Try to use the neck rope as little as possible in the beginning; the most important

It

It is sad to see riders putting themselves in danger because they want to try riding their horse without a bridle and are skipping the most important steps of the process and trying to do it all too fast. Safety is extremely important around horses, and in many situations, a bridle can provide safety because a bridle makes it easier to control the horse.

If your horse has been ridden with rein contact all his life, he probably doesn’t know any other way. Then it’s not safe to just take the reins off without any preparation at all and ride out bareback and without a helmet and

then gallop around in a field. You are putting yourself, your horse and others in danger. Start with a bridle and reins plus the neck rope (or only your body and seat), and let the reins rest on the horse’s neck. Then you do have them there for safety. Start the training in a safe area, such as a riding arena or paddock with fences around it. When your horse starts to understand your aids and signals and you are getting more connected, you can try without the reins, but only in a riding arena or paddock.

Always remember to use a bitless bridle, a rope halter or a normal bridle with reins when you ride outside the arena. You don’t need to use them, but in the case of an emergency situation, you will have reins. It’s not so fun anymore if your horse bolts and throws you off and runs over a road and gets injured because you had

Riding bridleless is fun - for both horse and rider! 

Combining classical dressage and bridleless riding, Batman is educated to respond for light aids through the seat. He can do all the exercises he knows without depending on the reins. The keyword is self-carriage! 

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no chance to stop him. And always wear a helmet! When I started to ride on hacks 100% bridleless, it was only on carless roads close to the stable area. I always have a halter in my hand and let my friends with their calm horses join me. Batman knows how to stop immediately, and if I needed to, I can easily dismount and put on the halter. It can take years to get to this level. I also know horses

If you feel the need to punish somebody, punish yourself, not the horse!

Make it a positive experience for both horse and rider – this is supposed to be fun!

You don’t have any other goals than having a good time together. It’s not intended to look cool; it’s meant to feel good. And believe me, it’s the most amazing feeling ever.

I was super-happy the first time I tried riding Batman without a bridle, and he did a halt! I would usually take that for granted, but this time, I praised him for a minute straight, and then we walked out of the arena, and he got a few extra carrots with his supper.

Please be aware of the consequences of the violent use of the neck rope, and remember that riding without a bridle does not make you better than others.

I highly recommend using a bridle or halter in the beginning for safety. The reins can rest on the horse's neck. 

I would never ride on hacks bridleless - use common sense.

THE SHOULD HORSE LISTEN TO YOU BECAUSE HE WANTS TO, NOT BECAUSE HE HAS TO

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prefer to use lots of praise when teaching a horse to be ridden bridleless. I reward every single attempt from the horses' side.

Take nothing for granted – never! This is about teaching the horse to listen to every single small signal you give, and often your signals will be much softer than usual. Many horses are, unfortunately, ridden with the “more leg, more whip, more rein”, but that won’t work when you are trying to ride on the horses home ground. The softer the signals, the better the result, will be. Riding based on feeling, friendship and your opinion is not worth more than the horses.

You have to listen to him. You are equal. It is always best for your horse to listen to you because he wants to and not because he has to. If your horse doesn't listen to you, you are probably doing something wrong. Then it’s your job to find out what you did wrong.

Sometimes I, unfortunately, see riders pull/hold their neck rope way to high and then use it as a pain device to stop the horse, making him rear, etc. If you do so, you are so far from soft riding and equal communication. This is an extremely vulnerable part of the horse’s throat! You can do damage to the arteries, and other vessels and pipes. Never place your neck rope higher to gain control. The neck rope is supposed to rest on the chest and only be used for seconds at the time, and with a very light hand. Every tool used wrong can easily be converted into a painful device.

Bit, bitless or neck rope, in the wrong hands they can both cause damage. Remember that bridleless riding is not equal to good horsemanship. Riding without a bit or bridle itself does not make you a better rider. In the end, it depends on how you ride and treat your horse, not what kind of tack you use or not. It’s important to respect others, as they respect you.

AN AMAZING JOURNEY TOWARDS HAPPINESS AND FREEDOM THAT CAN BENEFIT ALL HORSES AND RIDERS.

E

verybody can learn how to ride bridleless, and most horses can be ridden bridleless. But all horses are individuals with different backgrounds and personality, so it can take years to get to a level where you can canter around in a field making your horse go from canter to halt in a matter of seconds, just by breathing out. But everybody can

PHOTO: Linn Bjerkseth

do it; this is not magic. But it takes training, time and dedication, just like everything else. It can't be achieved overnight, but believe me, it’s an incredible journey! Either you are into jumping, dressage, reining, cross country or simply enjoy hacks in the forest, ditching the reins now and then to feel how well your horse responds to your other aids is positive for you both. Maybe you can jump a few fences without using the reins, try a halt and back up or collecting the canter?

In the end, challenging yourself to try something different can make you a better rider, your horse more responsive and your relationship stronger. a

GOOD LUCK! I ALWAYS keep in mind that he might be so scared of something that he will try to escape the danger..

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ARENA G P S

TRAINING EXERCISES

by Dr. Thomas Ritter

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rena GPS compilation offers exercises with graphics and brief instructions that you can take with you into the arena in order to get training ideas.

The exercises work as diagnostic tools as well as therapeutic tools. On the one hand, they show us where the horse’s training deficits are, i.e. where a muscle is stiff or weak, or where the body awareness and coordination are lacking.

On the other hand, the exercises improve precisely these deficits.

From the green horse’s first day at the longe line all the way to the Olympic horse, there are only six basic demands the horse needs to be able to fulfill: go forward, stop, bend, turn, sidestep, and reinback.

Therefore, the exercises of the Arena GPS consist of combinations of these basic demands. Some exercises contain only two or three elementary demands. Others contain more. The number of basic building blocks is very limited, but the number of possible combinations is almost infinite.

In gymnastic training – and consequently in the Arena GPS – bending in motion plays a central role, because it produces and improves straightness, suppleness, the swinging back, as well as impulsion and collection.

in order to check and see if the horse can now execute it better. If an exercise turns out to be too difficult, you can ride an easier version or replace it with an easier exercise that addresses the same issue.

If you want to work a specific hind leg, you bring it underneath the body through a lateral movement, then you load it, for instance through a narrow turn and/or by stopping into this hind leg.

After the horse has successfully executed an exercise, you can change direction, gait, location, topic, take a break, or even finish the workout as a reward. You should not, however, leave the location until the horse has shown some cooperation. Otherwise, the horse can draw the wrong conclusion and become disobedient.

Every exercise serves as a preparation for the following ones, similar to the rungs on a ladder.

It makes sense, therefore, to prepare for difficult transitions or movements.

The skillful selection of exercises brings the horse into the best balance for the envisioned movement.

Every exercise has a certain effect on the horse’s gait and posture.

If you observe a mistake during an exercise or a movement, you can interrupt it in order to ride a new exercise

This effect has an “expiration date”. You must not, therefore, allow too much time to pass between the individual elements of an exercise sequence.

Otherwise the beneficial effect of the previous part of the exercise will be gone and you have to start over. You also have to start over if a mistake happens during a sequence of exercises, because we

that teaches the horse the mobility, coordination, or understanding he needs to overcome the problems in the original exercise. No exercise or movement is so important that you can‘t interrupt it for an explanatory or corrective exercise.

After an exercise you always have to evaluate in which direction it was more difficult and in which direction it led to the greater improvement.

General Tips For The Application Of Exercises And Movements

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Afterwards, you ride the original exercise again,

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want to take advantage of the cumulative effect of the individual parts of the exercise.

PREPARATION FOR FLYING CHANGES AND CANTER PIROUETTES

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Preparation For Flying Changes and Canter Pirouettes. This is a variation of an exercise described above. Begin with a 10 m volte in the first corner of the long side. Then leg yield diagonally to the first quarter line. There, you ride a few strides of renvers. From the renvers on the quarter line, leg yield diagonally to the center line, where you continue in renvers. If the arena is long enough, you could leg yield a third time, to the 2nd quarter line.

M This exercise can be found in Arena GPS 1.2

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This is a very effective straightening and balancing exercise that can be ridden in all 3 gaits. As a preparation for the flying change, you ride the volte and the leg yield in the trot. You ask for the canter depart on the new lead either on the first quarter line or on the center line. If you begin the exercise on the right rein, you ask for the left lead canter, and vice versa.

In the next stage of the exercise you begin in the true lead canter, move forward-sideways to the quarter line, similar to a half pass, where the request for the renvers position triggers the flying change.

On more advanced horses you can use the same exercise as a preparation for canter pirouettes. For this purpose, you ask for a flying change from true lead to counter canter after the first corner of the long side. In the counter canter you ride a plié toward the first quarter line.

You follow the quarter line in renvers for a few strides. Then ride another plié toward the center line.

The alternation between plié and renvers can be continued to the end of the arena.

Immediately after the last plié you add a half pirouette or full pirouette.

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RIDE A 4 LOOP SERPENTINE, WITH A VOLTE IN EACH LOOP This exercise can be found in Arena GPS 1.1

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Ride a 4 loop serpentine, with a volte in each loop. The connecting lines between the voltes are ridden in a shoulder-in with the bend of the new volte.

For instance, start on the left rein with a volte in the first corner of the long side. As soon as the horseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s body is parallel with the short side, change the bend and ride a shoulder-in right parallel with the short side. On the opposite long side, ride 1 1â &#x201E;2 voltes to the right. After the volte right, continue in shoulder-in left towards the opposite long side, etc.

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M This exercise is very suitable for the walk and trot. Sidestepping supples the lateral hip and abdominal muscles, turning onto the volte supples the shoulder and pectoral muscles, and the change of bend mobilizes the spine.

I THINK IF I HAD TO GUESS, I’D GUESS MOST OF THE PEOPLE READING THIS HAVE A GREAT AFFINITY FOR HORSES. AM I RIGHT?

So when I say to you that simply being in the presence of our horses we understand the calming effect they have on us, how they return us to sanity, relieve our stress you know what I mean. Not those days where you are rushing around thinking about a competition, or organising the farrier, those tasks that get between us and them, but rather those moments when we listen to them grazing, or get lost in grooming, or simply gazing at them over the fence. Science agrees. Being with horses lowers cortisol levels which is associated with decreased stress. Being with horses, touching horses, increases Oxytocin, again associated with reducing stress.

The effect horses have on us simply by being is the “secret sauce” they add to our organisational development work. There is a whole lot more they do as part of that of course.

They give honest feedback with no hidden agenda, they stand in as metaphors for what is going on at work or elsewhere in people’s lives and relationships. They give us the opportunity to try out different ways of communicating

and behaving. They become part of a team and show how are team dynamics are working, how we are taking up or abdicating our power as a leader and how we can be adaptive and agile leaders in the moment.

The magic they offer though is in how they open us up so quickly, by destressing and relaxing us so we can take all the rest of that wonderful stuff in.

If you need a bit of creative Horsanity in your business or organisation our four legged masterful team is ready and waiting.

Contact us for more information Lynn.jenkin@horsanity.com.au | www.horsesanity.com.au

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Photo by Samantha Taylor

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Photos by Lusitano World’s Photographers: Katya Druz and Rita Fernandes

ALTER REAL STUD interview

The Alter Real is a strain of the Lusitano which is bred only at the Alter Real State Stud in Portugal. The stud was founded in 1748 by the Portuguese royal family to provide horses for the national riding academy and royal use. The Portuguese School of Equestrian Art (Escola Portuguesa de Arte Equestre) uses these horses exclusively in their performances. Here at Baroque Horse with the partnership of Lusitano World, had the pleasure to talk to António Saraiva – Companhia das Lezirias President – and Francisco Beja – responsible for the equine production at Alter Real Stud.

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BY Lusitano World AND Baroque Horse Magazine

BH. Alter Real (AR) stud was founded in 1748 by the royal family. Can you please tell us about the foundation horses that were used and their lineage?

AR: Alter Stud was founded with horses from the Crato Stud and from Portel Stud, which were rustic horses, bred for work. Even then the objective in selection was to create a more refined, athletic type of horse.

BH. Has the AR horse changed much over the years? If so, how?

AR: Yes, it has. The stud was heavily influenced by the history of Portugal and by external influences - especially during the French invasions. It was amplified by the military management of the stud after the end of the monarchy in 1910. The Revolution had a huge impact on the AR stud. In 1945 when the Agricultural Ministry tried to revive the breed, and it was thought that no Alter Real stallions had survived. However, this wasn't the case. Dr. Ruy d'Andrade is credited with having played a crucial part in the resurrection of the breed. Dr. Ruy D’Andrade initiated a recovery program with some existing horses from the original bloodlines – mares from the old nucleus of Zapata bloodlines and stallions that he had had the foresight to obtain while still possible and others he managed to identify in Alter or acquire from other breeders.

BH. What characteristics define the horses of the AR line? How would you define the horses of the AR lineage?

AR: The AR horses are very sensitive and intelligent horses. They require sensibility from the rider, especially from the one who trains them. They are generally easy horses to teach, responsive to the rider’s aids and to the environmental stimuli. They are reputed for their excellent gaits and natural balance.

BH. Horses of AR lineage are highly sought after and there is no doubt that the quality is exceptional. How important is it to have such homogeneity in the horses you breed?

AR: Homogeneity is very important, but it hasn’t always been easy to achieve as we have some degree of heterogeneity in the herd of mares. The conjugation of some bloodlines and the crossing between them is fundamental, but unfortunately, there is no recipe. In the last few years, we have given some significant steps towards fixating some important characteristics, always taking into consideration the goal to approximate the Alter Real to the breed standard.

BH. When you’re selecting and matching up mares with stallions, what is it that you look for?

AR: It’s a complex process that requires the intervention of the Portuguese School of Equestrian Art (EPAE). Their input on the characteristics of certain lines is fundamental to the final decisions. There are bloodlines with better canter; others with better trot, some with higher natural balance or with natural ability for collection, high school exercises and airs above the ground.

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Alter Real Stud Farm AR mares in their field  AR mare wearing a chocalho and foal at foot k

Stallion 'Coronel AR' 

BH. With people getting taller and the growing desire for horses over 163cm (16hh), has this influenced the breeding at the stud?

AR: It hasn’t and it isn’t one of our concerns, but the occurrence of taller animals is a natural and implicit concept to horse breeding. Current management practices have improved, and the developments in horse nutrition allow us to explore the horses’ genetic potential more effectively than in the past.

BH. Past and present, which stallions and mares have been the most influential?

AR: The stallion with the biggest influence in the Stud in recent years has been Hircino AR. More recently, it has no doubt been Rubi AR. BH. Which stallions are you using at the moment?

AR: At the moment, we have in our reproductive plan the dressage stallions Beirão and Coronel and, from the EPAE, Dihário, Rabelo, Jacaré II, Cajabel, Que-Jovem, Que-jagó, Vejetal, Helxir, amongst others.

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BH. In other countries around the world, riding mares is very common. In AR, mares are tested when young. Has the stud ever considered having mares in the dressage competition team?

AR: We have often considered this possibility, although we haven’t acted on the thought. Our priority is the males, also as a form of investment

in them as future stallions, which we cannot do in the same fashion with the females.

BH. AR horses are predominantly bay - is this intentional or just the way the breeding went?

AR: That bay coat colour has been defended since Dr. Ruy D’Andrade began the recovery program in 1945. Occasionally we have black and chestnut animals born, but the bay is preferred, and the great majority of AR broodmares in our herd have that coat colour.

BH. Can you tell us a bit about AR Stud daily routine? What are the main activities around the stud?

AR: In most aspects of its management, it is a stud like many others. One of the major differences is in the mare’s routine: they stay in the pastures during the night and every morning they return to their stables at “Páteo das Éguas” where they stay until mid-afternoon.

During this stay, they are monitored; their reproductive status is verified so we can do the insemination at the right moment. Unlike studs in the centre and north of Europe, Alter keeps the mares indoors during the day because of the high summer temperatures.

BH. Can you tell us about a life of an AR horse. What is the program with the young horses? At what age do they initiate their education or join the breeding stock?

AlterRealStud

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Stallion 'Douro AR' 

Stallion 'Haljaziro AR' w

AR mare and foal.

Mare being evaluated by a vet at the Stud. 

Health care is of the utomost important with regular shoeing m

AR: Weaning in Alter happens when the foals are between six and eight months. During this time, we begin the process of socialization: foals learn basic aspects of stable routine and how to be lunged, and we also trim the hooves to help correct limb alignment. On the day of the Stud’s birthday, 9th of December, the foals are branded on their right thigh, and we separate the males from the females. In the following days, they are set free in the pastures until they turn three years of age. Between three and four years, they initiate their training and there is one first selection of the best animals by the Stud and by EPAE. A maximum of 10% of the females are selected to refresh the herd of mares. One or two males integrate the Stud’s Competition Team and the EPAE chooses the stallions they require to reinforce their performance horses.

BH. All young horses take part in a selection program – that determines the goal and destination of the horse. How are the horses selected for the PSEA, Alter competition team and the breeding program?

AR: The physical characteristics and some particularities – typicality, temperament, morphology and gaits are fundamental. In some cases, the bloodlines and aptitude for certain functions are also taken into account.

The AR horses are very sensitive and intelligent horses.

They require sensibility from the rider, especially from the one who trains them. They are generally easy horses to teach, responsive to the rider’s aids and to the environmental stimuli.

They are reputed for their excellent gaits and natural balance.

Stallion 'Hialino AR' 

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BH. And what criteria determines what are the horses presented in auction?

AR: At the annual auction, we present the 4-year-old horses that were not selected by the EPAE and that will not be used by the Stud to renew its competition team (no more than 2 horses per year). In the case of mares, those that will not be selected to refresh our broodmare

Lusitano

HORSE ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALASIA

THE LUSITANO HORSE ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALASIA WAS FOUNDED TO PROMOTE ALL ASPECTS OF THE LUSITANO BREED IN AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND Help is available in a number of areas * ADVICE FOR PROSPECTIVE OWNERS ON FINDING A SUITABLE LUSITANO * INFORMATION ON PAPERS AND REGISTRATION AND MEMBERSHIP * LISTS OF BREEDERS INTERNATIONALLY IN PORTUGAL, BRAZIL, U.S.A, AND GREAT BRITAIN * IMPORT RESTRICTIONS AND INTERNATIONAL TRANSPORT

LUSITANO HORSE ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALIASIA E-MAIL: info@lusitano.com.au PH: +61 2 4887 1042 PO Box 1857, Bowral NSW 2576 Australia

lusitano.com.au facebook.com/lusitanohorseassociation

AR mare in the field wearing a chocalho.  Duarte Nogueira riding 'Beirāo AR' during a demonstration at the Alter Real annual auction 

Rita Ralão with 'Coronel AR'  herd, will be auctioned. In some auctions, the selection criteria are extended to former EPAE and competition team horses.

BH. What is your balance from this year’s auction? What where the main factors, in your opinion, responsible for the success of the auction?

AR: It was a great day! Stud full of visitors, more than thirty registrations of bidders, fantastic weather and interesting sales. We have seen in the last editions a growing interest in the auction by foreign buyers, tourists and local visitors. More than a simple auction we understand it as a festive day were the Stud wants to show the work that is carried out during the year and tries to present an attractive day with some exhibitions and a social program.

On top of that, this year we have initiated a strong communication activity on Facebook that increased the awareness for the auction.

BH. We’ve heard about the new partnership with Christine Jacoberger – can you tell us a bit more about the project?

AR: Coronel AR (Rubi AR x Negaça AR) has been considered for many years as a stallion of high potential for dressage. His achievements confirmed this idea. The plans for further development of Coronel AR aimed for the participation in international dressage competitions. This can only be achieved with a tuned and motivated partnership. And this came through with a project involving Christine Jacoberger, the owner of Coronel’s AR father, who also recognized potential in this son of Rubi

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AR. The horse will continue to be owned by the stud but its sportive career will be managed by Christine, and we are very proud of this project!

The rider selected by Christine was Rita Ralão, who will be coached by her father, the olimpic portuguese rider Miguel Ralão.

BH. What are the current horses from Alter Competition Team? And your plans for the next three years?

AR: Our current Competition Team includes Hercules, Guhapo, Fevereiro, Douro, and Beirão. The first three are young horses with great potential and will progress in their training towards the higher levels of dressage.

The Douro will compete in national and international competition at St. George level.

Beirão will be at GP; we are hopeful in his evolution so we can witness his potential in international competitions.

BH. Any young promise at the Stud we should keep an eye at?

AR: Several… We will be on alert to their progress. Stay tuned! a

We would like to thank António Saraiva and Francisco Beja from the Alter Real Stud for taking the time to talk to us; we look forward to a bright and wonderful future of the stud.

Please visit their Facebook Page fb/AlterReal the website - alterreal.pt or email: geral@alterreal.pt

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ARTICLE BY: LUSITANO WORLD

Lusitano DISCOVERING THE

THROUGH PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTOS BY:

Katya Druz

T

he Lusitano horse is, without a doubt, one of the worlds most fascinating and exciting breeds of horses to photograph. They combine beauty with a unique spirit that makes them shine in photos with exuberant movements, deep connections with their riders while also having a playful and powerful attitude in liberty. When it comes to the Lusitano, there is unquestionably no better place to visit this magnificent breed than its country of origin â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Portugal. Here we can learn more about these horses, bloodlines and the equestrian traditions that are part of this country with such strong culture and ancestral equestrian connections, where equestrianism is a way of life and deeply embedded in their way of being.

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photographers from eight countries joined this photo workshop for five days of adventure, fun and discovering the Lusitano through photography. The goal of this workshop was not only to grow and develop one's own equine photographic skills, but also to experience exquisite locations of this ancient country and learn more about the breed. This combination of opportunities is always the motto for Lusitano Worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Photo Workshops. This one was hosted and organized by renowned equine photographer Katya Druz, in April this year.

PHOTO: 'XEIQUE'

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Stallion 'Xisto' at liberty 

The participants of this workshop 

Lusitano stallions 'Duque' and 'Doce' 

Our journey started and ended in two iconic places of the Portuguese Equestrian World. The opening was at the famous Portuguese School of Equestrian Art with their incredible Alter Real stallions, and the closing day took us to the place where these horses are bred - The Alter Real Stud, where participants of workshop enjoyed the annual auction.

Between these two historical visits, the participants were treated to incredible photographic opportunities where amazing horses and outstanding riders took part in this adventure.

Liberty, of course, is always a must at any photographic workshop. At the Lusitanos Academy we were able to enjoy a rainbow of colors and enthusiastic energy with some acrobatic movements of these magnificent horses against the dark red walls. A dream session for any keen photographer.

Pedro Torres and 'Czar' (left) right with 'Oxidado' m

Joao Faustino with Isabel stallion 'Ferrolho' 

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Having the opportunity to get to

know a Stud Farm and understand their daily routine and breeding lines was also one of the goals of this workshop.

Salgadas Stud was the Lusitano World’s associated breeder where participants had the chance to combine riding experiences and photography. A diversity of scenarios were presented by portraits of gorgeous stallions; liberty in the fields; and an inspiring moment of capturing herds of mares running between cork trees, guided by a rider

Christina Peitz, Germany: "What a great photo workshop! I absolutely loved and enjoyed it. We had many excellent shooting opportunities in different places, with different people and different horses. Thank you so much for this wonderful week, Lusitano World and Katya Druz!"

Lesya Chikaryuk, Ukraine: "Do not get tired to watch photos and to reminisce about our wonderful adventure!

Thanks a lot to the organizers and all the participants for 5 wonderful days!"

Pat Smith, UK: "Thank you all for making the workshop so fascinating and also such fun! Learnt so much and can't quite believe how we were able to get close to so many beautiful horses and talented riders." t

Bruno Pica Conceição and 'Trinco'

Lusitano Stallion 'Xajarro' 

dressed in a traditional Portuguese outfit.

Sintra was perhaps the most magical of days. In fairy woods of this mountain - a mystical place chosen by royalty from all over the world as the perfect place to build their palaces and castles - we were fortunate to have the most amazing horses and riders performing for our cameras. The renowned world champions of working equitation Pedro Torres with Oxidado and Bruno Pica Conceição with Trinco made our day posing for our cameras. It was a pure joy to see the connection between these riders and their horses. How fast their reactions were, showing us that Lusitano horses kept their hearts of warriors, always ready for action, being the extension of the body of the rider itself. The energy, power and sensation of lightness in each

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Joao Castelao and 'Honesto'

movement impressed all of us – unforgettable moments will remain forever registered in our photos.

The experience would not be complete without visiting Portugal’s typical coastline next day. A dawn photo session on the beach is a dream of any photographer, and we were very lucky to have powerful and beautiful Lusitanos playing and fearlessly cantering in ocean waves both freely and with their riders.

The workshop was finished at the Alter Real Stud during the annual auction day, with five full and magical days with thousands of photos to sort through.

After the success of the first initiatives and a waiting list growing, the Lusitano World team cannot wait for the next photography projects to happen.

Have a look at the some of the Photo Workshops and Photo Tours we are offering and send us an email for more information: contactus@lusitanoworld.com a

Want to join one of these adventures? Save the Date!

Upcoming photo tours / workshops with Lusitano world and Katya Druz •

15th-17th July 2016 [PhotoTour] Portuguese Equestrian Vacations

•

21th-24th July 2016 [PhotoWorkshop] Discovery of the Lusitano

•

25th-30th April 2017 [PhotoWorkshop] Portuguese Equestrian Culture

For more information about these programs send us an email: contactus@lusitanoworld.com

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LIPIZZANER ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALASIA

2016 2016 Accreditation Accreditation

I

n mid-March of this year the Lipizzaner Association of Australasia (LAA) held a successful accreditation for their Lipizzaners. As a result, many mares and stallions were passed for breeding across the continent by internationally renowned judge Dr. Yvonne Peeters.

Based out of the Netherlands, Dr. Peeters is respected throughout the Lipizzaner community for her discerning and impartial eye of the breed. She and her husband spent 10 days traveling throughout the continent assessing the best of Australia’s Lipizzaners, and remarked that the LAA’s horses have ‘classical types and good movements,’ noting particularly that one of the mares was ‘exceptional’ and ‘could successfully compete with the best Lipizzan horses in Europe.’ The event began on Australia’s western coast in Perth before later finishing in the beautiful hill country of far north NSW along the Queensland border.

As a result of Dr. Peeters’ visit, four stallions were added to the list of those already approved for standing to stud.

First in Western Australia was 274 Favory Pallavicina II, owned by Anna Melton, that was judged as Elite, then the older Slovenian bred stallion 214-224 Conversano Allegra V in southern Australia, who was also judged as Elite and ultimately received the highest marks for stallions in the accreditation. He was followed a few days later in Sydney with Spanish Riding School of Vienna-imported 318 Maestoso Gratia, judged as Elite, owned

by Mrs. Verissimo and trained by daughters Claire Readings and Alana Stallard. 235 Favory Szuzi III, hailing from southern Queensland, ended the accreditation by passed his assessment as a remarkably outstanding type.

Very sadly, since the accreditation, Conversano Allegra has passed away due to complications with colic. Solace for his loss has been found in the several young offspring he has left behind, though he continues to be mourned by owners Annette and Richard Mitchell and the larger LAA community.

7 mares also passed their accreditation under Dr. Peeters, and are now being considered for future breeding by their respective owners. Of all those accredited, 2016’s highest scoring Lipizzaner was the

By Katherine Schuessler

that of Europe and the United States, the quality of the breed has been and continues to remain high in the country. Since 1995 the LAA has existed to uphold the highest standards of the Lipizzaner breed, and is proud to be formally recognized by the LIF as Australia’s national stud book holder.

Given their core value to maintain and uphold the high standards of the Lipizzaner breed, the LAA’s main focus is to foster a deep interest in both its members and the larger horse community to breed quality Lipizzaners. With this aim, coupled with the goal to educate and create new interest in Australia’s equestrian world regarding these magnificent horses, the LAA envisages to present an ever-stronger Lipizzaner presence in the Southern Hemisphere.

Find out more about the LAA on their website: http://www.lipizzaneraustralia.org

Photo: '286 Paloma' Photographer: Kayla Mills

mare 297 Sonata by 226 Favory Naussica from 209 Sydney. Interestingly Sonata’s full sister, 248 Sienna, was the highest scoring Lipizzaner of 2012, the LAA’s last accreditation, and Sonata’s sire 226 Favory Naussica continues to remain Australasia’s highest ever accredited Lipizzaner.

Though Australia has only had Lipizzaners in the country for a few decades and the numbers remain small in comparison to

318 Maestoso Gratia with Claire Readings

297 Sonata. Owner Kim Sillis, Canberra.

Breeder J Brown, Achelo Stud.

274 FAVORY PALLAVICINA II (TIMMY)

The Lipizzaner Association of Australasia is a membership organisation that represents the Lipizzaner horse breed in Australasia and it is the only member in Australasia of The Lipizzan International Federation (LIF).

The Lipizzaner Association of Australasia Stud Book is managed in accordance with the guidelines set down by the Austrian Federal Stud at Piber and the Spanish Riding School of Vienna.

Sire

226 Favory Naussica

Dam

227 Pluto XXIX-23

Height:

15.2 hh

DOB:

12.12.2008

Breeder:

Georgina Beard, The Fulmer Rise Stud

Owner:

Anna Melton (WA) amelton80@gmail.com

‘ACCREDITED IN 2016 RECEIVED ELITE BREEDING STATUS’

226 FAVORY NAUSSICA (MAESTRO) Sire

Enee Favory Agena

Dam

Naussica 52

Height

155cm (15.1hh)

DOB:

08.05.2000

Breeder:

Georgina Beard, The Fulmer Rise Stud the.fulmer.rise.stud@me.com www.facebook.com/LAA.1995

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PART TWO

CALIFORNIA ARTICLE AND PHOTOS BY KATHRYN BARRETT

bloodless

BULLFIGHT This is part II in a series of articles taking a look at the tradition of bloodless bullfighting in California.

Bullfighting is a hot-blooded topic with a lot of stigma attached to it. To be clearâ&#x20AC;Ś these articles are only about the bloodless bullfighting tradition that is practiced in California. I encourage you to read through all of the articles before settling on a judgment.

T

his is the second article in a threepart series taking a look at bloodless bullfighting. In the last article, we discussed the history of bloodless bullfighting as it evolved in California. In this article, we will learn about the two principal players in bloodless bullfighting: the horse and the bull.

Although any horse can be a bullfighting horse, the most widely used breed is the Lusitano, the primary breed of Portugal.

HISTORY OF THE LUSITANO

ABOUT KATHRYN BARRETT

I am a horse trainer, photographer, and journalist. I believe in and practice fair and ethical treatment of horses using knowledge of physiology and psychology to find what approach works best for each horse and each situation. I spent 18 months as a working student for Manolo Mendez.

I have also attended clinics with Buck Brannamon and several other gifted equine professionals that have helped shape my approach to horses. I bring that perspective when I discuss this very sensitive topic. I have been researching this issue for months and intend to take a full, rounded look at bloodless bullfighting.

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The Lusitano horse is a breed apart. The Lusitano has been, until recently, almost entirely shaped by war and bullfighting. The Lusitano has descended from wild horses that occupied the Iberian Peninsula as far back as 25,000 BC. Successive invasions by the Phoenicians and the Celts brought in new blood from outside the region. By around 400 BC, the Iberian horses were known to be fast, agile, and formidable warhorses. One legend claims that the mares were daughters of the wind and that the skilled partnership between the Iberian riders and their horses are the inspiration for the myth of the centaur, believed to come from the area around the River Tejo (in Portugal).

In 711 AD, Muslims invaded the Iberian Peninsula. They crossed their fiery Barb horses with the local Iberian stock, and the crossbreeding produced a warhorse superior to the original Iberian horses.

The breeding of the Spanish Andalusian and the Portuguese Lusitano was virtually the same until the 1960s. In 1966, the Portuguese horse was officially given the name Lusitano. Even though the breeds are very similar, throughout

Alberto Conde on Xavante, lusitano before a bullfight. stallion owned by Coudelaria Agualva. bullfighting’s history in Spain it has been outlawed several times but continued almost uninterrupted in Portugal. These long breaks in the purpose of breeding led to a distinct difference emerging between the Andalusian and the Lusitano, with the Andalusian, in general, becoming more stylized for carriage and presentation, while the Lusitano continued to be primarily used for farm work and bullfighting.

There are several foundation lines in the Lusitano. The three main lines are Andrade, Veiga, and the Coudelaria Nacional (The National Stud). The two bloodlines discussed the most frequently when referring to bullfighting horses are Veiga and Andrade.

Veiga horses are a unique line within Lusitanos.

Manuel Veiga himself describes the horses as “Nervous, full of gallantry, so obedient they seem to outguess the rider’s intentions… and [possess] a striking agility, challenging all threats and dangers with indomitable courage.”

VEIGA Photo of 'Varaõ' by Katya Druz

ALTER REAL Photo of Rubi AR by Cátia Castro

ANDRADE Photo of 'Irreal' MP to Australia

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BLOODLESSBULLFIGHT

(Source: Interagro Lusitanos website).

The Andrade line of Lusitanos is a different sub-type. The breeder, Ruy d’Andrade, described them as “short, strong horses, valiant with the bulls, changing from calm to rapid on turns; with good walk, sensible to the spurs, submissive with good mouth, endless strength This is a 3 years old Lusitano named ICARUS dos PARDINHOS on is first lessons with the saddle on, the same as a bullfighting horse would be. Photo Antonio Mendonça

in everything.” (Source: Interagro Lusitanos website) Andrade horses tend to be taller, and not quite as high energy as Veiga horses.

It’s said that a combination of these two bloodlines produces the best bullfighting horses.

Specific bloodlines aside, you cannot disconnect the horse from who is riding it. The greatest horse in the world can be terrible with the wrong rider. Often good breeders search to find riders who will bring out the best in their horses.

This was the case with Veiga and Andrade. They were both able to show their horses best abilities by using riders that best suited them.

Any horse is capable of being a good bullfighting horse. The two main qualities that are required are the ability to collect easily and the mental discipline to bring their energy up, sometimes explosively, and bring it right

back to calm when needed, while maintaining emotional control. These qualities are part of the breed standard for Lusitanos, making them ideal. The breed has been selectively bred based on the demands of bullfighting.

A young Lusitano’s aptitude for bullfighting is largely based on his ability to keep his mind when confronted by the bull. Selecting a good bullfighting horse is probably very similar to selecting a good racehorse: you can have the right breeding and the right conformation, but ultimately it comes down to something in their heart and in their spirit. One Lusitano breeder put it very succinctly, of course, in Portuguese.

“There is a word, I don’t know if it’s the same in English. It’s finura. In Portuguese, it means ‘a fine sense.’ A good bullfighting horse has finura.” We would translate this word as, “You know it when you see it.” There is something special and valiant about a good bullfighting horse. He should be noble, full of energy, spring loaded, but not manic. Powerful, yet contained.

To be around a well-trained bullfighting horse is like being in the company of a samurai.

Ultimate power and strength held together with discipline and a focused mind.

Bullfighting horses are started the same way any horse is started. Once he is going confidently under saddle, he will be trained to use a tourinha. A tourinha can either be a set of horns mounted on a little one wheeled cart powered by a bandarilheiro or it can be a standing object with horns on it. The horse is taught how to come into the tourinha, bend around it, and circle it just as he would do with the bull. The tourinha not only introduces the horse to the movements he will be doing when confronted by the bull, but it’s also used in practice for bullfighting, so the horses need to be proficient with it. There are sometimes

A young bullfighting lusitano progressing to testing/training with a female calf.

A young bullfighting lusitano starting his training with a tourinha.

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Bulls coming in from the fields.

horses that do not like using a tourinha, but who are still great bullfighting horses. There is no formula for the perfect bullfighting horse.

Once the horse can use the tourinha, he will then be tested using calves, all female. As explained later, the male Spanish fighting bulls are never tested with horses or bullfighters.

As the horse becomes more comfortable with calves, he will then be put with larger cows.

Occasionally, a breeder or trainer will have access to a gentle bull. This can be a nice way to introduce a horse to an animal the size of the ones they will encounter in the bullring without the risk of being hurt.

As discussed in the first article, bullfighting is a hotly debated topic. In California, the bullfighting has taken on a bloodless form whereby no animal or human involved sheds blood. Whatever your opinion may be on bullfighting, bloodless or otherwise, there is one inescapable fact: the Lusitano horse is the noble and gallant breed it is today because of bullfighting. All of the characteristics beloved in this breed- his nobility, his agility, his superior intellect and mental discipline, his power- all of those characteristics were heavily selected for the purpose of using him in bullfighting.

To truly appreciate this breed, one must accept where he came from.

History of the Spanish Fighting Bull The true origin of the Spanish fighting bull is unknown, but genetic studies have shown that the bloodlines have unusually old genes that can be found in cattle from Africa. It’s likely that when the Moors invaded Spain, they brought their cattle breeds with them. Through intermingling, and specialized selection, the modern version of the Spanish Fighting cow evolved. Though aggressive behaviour was

likely always present, bloodlines intended for bullfighting were specially selected for their aggression, energy, courage, and stamina.

Bulls that are raised for bullfighting go through a unique, yet low-contact upbringing.

First, you have to select good bulls and good cows with the aim of producing bulls that act correctly in the bullring.

It’s easy to determine what bull would be a good sire for future generations: does he perform well in the bullring? A bull is considered “good” if he charges the bullfighters, charges straight, and maintains his energy and acts courageously throughout the event.

Acting courageously in the bullring is probably the single most important attribute of a good bullfighting bull. Bulls that are considered “bad bulls” will not charge. They will stay relatively

This bull would be considered good as is charging straight.

still, requiring the bullfighter to come to them in an attempt to incite a charge. This can be very dangerous because the bullfighter has to get very close to the bull, making it easier for the bull to injure the bullfighter.

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Many assert that bulls are taunted and tormented when put into a bullring. It is true that the bullfighters use the bull’s natural affinity to charge at movement, either of the horse or of a cape, to get him to charge, but how is that practice any different than using a calf’s desire to flee in calf roping or a bucking bull’s A bull charing straight towards the rider and horse.

desire to buck when a tight bucking strap is placed around his loins? In the bloodless version of bullfighting, the bull is not pierced with anything. And a bullfighting bull is only used one time because he learns too much during that single event and becomes even more dangerous.

The ultimate test for a bull is putting him in a bullfight. It’s really only when he’s faced with a bullfighter that a breeder will see if his breeding program was successful. Prior to his one and only time in the bullring, a bull will never have encountered a bullfighter before in his life.

Figuring out which cows would produce good bulls is a little more problematic. The cows are never put into the bullring, but they are just as ornery as their male counterparts. Cows are tested differently. When they are between one and two years old, female Spanish fighting cows are typically put into a training bullring with a cavaleiro and a matador. Her strength, bravery, aggression, and charging ability are put to the test. If she meets the criteria and behaves as desired, she will go out to pasture with other cows and a breeding bull with the hope that she will produce bulls that have her courage and bravery.

Once a male Spanish fighting bull reaches

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one year old, he is separated from his mother, and put in with other bulls his age. The young bulls are branded and sorted. Calves with symmetrical horns and no conformation faults are sent to live in pastures as far away from human contact as possible. In some cases this is in large pasture properties, while in other cases this is a large secluded paddock. Breeders want their bulls to have as little contact with humans as possible for one reason: the more a bull interacts with, or even observes, people the more he learns about them and that makes him incredibly dangerous once he finally makes it into the bullring.

Spanish fighting bulls are not structurally very different from other breeds of cattle. They do mature more slowly than your average beef cow, and they also have a more athletic, muscled look, having been selected for their aggression rather than their marbling. Spanish fighting bulls also have a prominent “morillo,” which is the group of muscles over the shoulder and neck, giving the bull a distinctive profile and added neck strength.

In California, the bulls have to be bred slightly differently than in other parts of the world where bullfighting is practiced.

Alberto Conde taking time to show his affection for his horse as he braids his mane before a bloodless bullfight.

BLOODLESSBULLFIGHT

In bloodless bullfighting, the bull is never pierced with a bandarilha so the bull has to continue to want to meet the bullfighter based on his desire to charge alone.

Just as with the Lusitanos, there is also a Portuguese word to describe the essence of a good bullfighting bull: “Bravura.”

We would translate it as bravery. But it is more than just simple bravery. It’s bravery with nobility mixed together. As discussed in the previous article, bullfighting has ancient roots. The tradition of facing off against a bull goes back to the Epic of Gilgamesh and bull leaping in Crete. This long history makes bloodless bullfighting more than just testing oneself against the power of a bull. It involves carefully choreographed manoeuvres that are designed to bring out the best aspects of the bull and the horse.

These two gladiadores continue to face off against each other in bloodless bullrings around California. Both the horse and the bull have been selectively bred to meet each other on a stage as sparring partners. It used to be to the death, but with the creation of bloodless bullfighting, the ancient tradition of man testing his and his horse’s skills against the power of Nature can continue with no bloodshed.

Like archetypal characters from a Shakespearean play, each plays his role, performs his dance steps before the curtain falls, narrowly avoiding the tragedy these dramas are so well known for. a

... Carefully choreographed maneuvers that are designed to bring out the best aspects of the bull and the horse.

Stud bull, not being used as you can see he has the tips of his horns not trimmed.

OF THE SKIN AND COAT THROUGH

BY KENTUCKY EQUINE RESEARCH

E

very horse owner wants their horse to look their best, especially when in the public eye. Improving the health and quality of the skin and coat is by far the most effective way to attract attention when showing, selling or competing.

The skin is the largest organ in the body and its important roles are sometimes forgotten. The role of the skin varies from helping to maintain a stable internal temperature and environment to one of the most important roles as a barrier to the outside world, preventing bacterial and fungal skin infections.

An imbalanced intake of amino acids, vitamins and trace minerals can disrupt the barrier function of the skin and therefore compromise the immune protection it provides.

It is easy to forget that the skin, like other organs, requires essential nutrients to support normal function. A wide variety of nutritional factors may play a role in equine dermatology. Skin is constantly rejuvenating itself and in order to do this, uses a large amount of nutrients provided in the diet.

The health of the skin and coat is an extension of the health of the horse and can reveal a lot about the horseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s diet. The main contributing factor to a high quality coat predominately comes from the inside and can be greatly altered with correct nutrition. The use of rugs and elbow grease will be of little help if correct nutrition is lacking. Understanding how

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different nutrients contribute to skin and coat health, and how these work together to enhance the coat as part of a balanced diet, is more important than singling out individual nutrients and expecting them to work wonders.

A skin and/or coat problem originating from a dietary deficiency can present as a dry, scurfy, moth eaten coat with poor skin elasticity, impaired hair shedding, patchy molting, long coat and poor regrowth.

Nowadays horses in most parts of the world are fed high quality diets, thus skin and coat problems caused by nutrient deficiencies are rare. However, many horses are fed manufactured feeds below the recommended intakes on the bag. While this reduced level of feed may meet energy requirements for that individual horse, it is likely to fall short of the optimal nutrient requirements for a healthy, shiny coat. A traditional diet of oats and chaff is also likely to be deficient in some essential amino acids, fats, vitamins and minerals important for coat health. In these situations nutrient requirements can be successfully met through the addition of a balanced vitamin and mineral supplement and high quality protein source, topping up amino acids and essential nutrients to an optimal level.

There are several key nutrients required for a glossy coat, mane and tail, including amino acids (specifically lysine and methionine), fatty acids, trace minerals (zinc and iodine), and the B vitamin

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PHOTO

KATY D

RIVER

BEFORE

biotin. Feeding a combination of biotin, zinc and methionine supports the growth of high quality hair and aids in the growing out of winter coats, while lecithin (a source of fatty acids) plays a role in promoting healthy skin and a shiny coat.

Organic forms of trace minerals are recommended because they are absorbed most easily. Zinpro Performance Minerals, including organic zinc and iodine, are research proven to enhance coat quality, while a study conducted by scientists at Wroclaw University in Poland found that horses supplemented with organic zinc and copper had improved mane hair strength and elasticity. Zinpro Performance Minerals are used by Kentucky Equine Research due to their superior quality, and bioavailability.

The easiest approach to ensuring your horse is provided with these key nutrients for skin and coat health is by adding a scientifically formulated coat supplement, such as KER Bio-Bloom to the ration. KER Bio-Bloom is a perfectly balanced blend of biotin, organic zinc, iodine, lysine, methionine, lecithin and soybean meal. KER Bio-Bloom has as an added bonus in that it is also formulated to improve hoof condition.

Centauro (genetically tested as brown not black)is fed KER Low GI pellets, KER Gold Pellets, KER Biobloom, KER Hemabuild and KER EO-3 Photos taken 2 months apart.

...healthy skin, a glossy coat, shiny mane and thick tail is achievable through balanced nutrition...

ratio that fails to provide the full benefits of the long-chain omega-3 fatty acids, DHA and EPA. A superior choice of oil for skin and coat quality, with the added benefit of being a concentrated source of DHA and EPA, is fish oil. DHA and EPA supplementation can assist with skin problems including hypersensitivity and allergies. KERx EO∙3 is a direct and pure source of DHA and EPA, which has been deodorised and flavored, making it highly palatable to horses.

Horses that have faded coats may have a mineral deficiency. A darker or deeper coat colour may be achieved by feeding KER Hemabuild, a vitamin B and trace mineral supplement containing organic copper, zinc, iodine, manganese and iron, which are thought to aid in coat colour enhancement. It should be noted that KER Hemabuild is not recommended to be fed to palominos or buckskin horses as it may cause smutting in the coat.

In summary, healthy skin, a glossy coat, shiny mane and thick tail is achievable through balanced nutrition. Feeding a scientifically formulated coat conditioner, such as KER Bio-Bloom, which blends essential amino acids, organic trace minerals, vitamins and fatty acids, as well as supplementing the diet with essential long chain omega-3s from KERx EO∙3 will provide the vital nutrients for skin and coat health.

Adding oil to a horse’s ration is a common method used to achieve a glossy coat. While added fatty acids will be effective to some degree, the choice of oil fed can have a huge effect on the general health of the horse. Oils traditionally given to horses include corn or other vegetable oils, but we now know these have an unbalanced omega-3 to omega-6

Remember you should always discuss dietary changes with an equine nutritionist and/or your veterinarian if your horse has specific nutritional concerns. For more information or help with formulating your horse’s ration, contact Kentucky Equine Research’s FREE Nutrition Consultation Service on 1800 772 198 or email advice@ker.com. a

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INTERNAL

By David de Fredrick MVSc - HORSEBOOK.COM.AU

EVERY HORSE OWNER KNOWS THAT HORSES HAVE INTERNAL PARASITES.

S

ome think they are not important and do little to control them, some have a drenching program that keeps them more or less under control, and some realise how important they can be and have a strategy to keep harm to a minimum. A few parasites are restricted by climate or geography, but most species are present in horse areas throughout Australia. It is unusual to find a horse that has no parasites.

Nauchal Ligament

· Neck Threadworms

HARM All parasites live off the horse and do harm, even if it is only reducing performance. They may cause colic (many species), suck blood and damage tissues (large strongyles), steal nutrients and interfere with digestion (small strongyles, bots, tapeworms), cause irritation (pinworms) and block the bowel (ascarids, bots). Some kill horses (large strongyles, ascarids)

Stomach

· Bots ·Large Mouth Stomach Worms ·Tapeworms

Eye

· Habronema spp Larvae

Caecum Colon · Pin Worm · Large Strongyles ·Tapeworms · Small Strongyles

Rectum

· Bots ·Pinworms

Suspensory Ligament

· Neck Threadworms

Lungs · Roundworms

Smaa Intestine · Roundworms ·Intestinal Threadworms ·Tapeworms

· Lungworms

Skin

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· Habronema spp Larvae · Intestinal Threadworms

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Liver

· Roundworms · Large Strongyles

Blld Veeels · Bloodworm Larvae · Intestinal Threadworms

THE MOST SERIOUS INTERNAL PARASITES

EPIDEMIOLOGY

SMALL STRONGYLES

BOTS

Most species of worms are present all the year but may have seasonal peaks depending mainly on rainfall. High density of horses favours all types of parasites, particularly the Strongyles that are passed onto the ground, hatch, climb up green grass and are eaten by a horse grazing that piece of pasture. In dry periods, horses pick up very few of these types of worm from the ground.

These are also called Cyathostomes.

Their life cycle is similar to the large strongyles. The larvae irritate the lining of the bowel and interfere with ingestion and absorption. They have a dormant stage in the bowel wall, so when the adult worms in the lumen (cavity) of the bowel are killed by drenching, a new wave of larvae moves in and soon matures into egg-laying adults. They are the most common worm eggs found in faecal preparations. Some horses have thousands of them.

Bots are insects and are seasonal.

The female fly lays eggs on hairs, mainly of the legs but also around the mouth and forequarters. The eggs hatch when the horse licks them, then penetrate the tissues of the mouth and pass down and attach to the lining of the stomach and duodenum. There they cause pain and can block the passage of ingesta (food). Some horses have hundreds of them.

LARGE STRONGYLES These are the worst parasite of horses. The horse eats the larvae on the grass, They migrate in the body and sometimes damage arteries which can kill the horse. They attach to the lining of the bowel to suck blood and are therefore called redworms or bloodworms. Large strongyles attached to the wall of the colon of a mare â&#x20AC;&#x201C; she had many hundreds of them

Two large strongyle eggs and four small strongyle eggs in a fresh faecal preparation, photographed through a microscope. [19] ASCARIDS

The female worms produce a huge number of eggs that then pass out onto the ground. After a few days in a favourable environment, the eggs hatch and the microscopic larvae climb up green grass and the cycle is complete.

Also called roundworms, these are most harmful in foals. The foal picks up the eggs off the ground and they mature in the gut, localising in the small intestine. They donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t suck blood or damage the wall, but can block the small intestine and kill the foal.

Large strongyles

Ascarids

Bots attached to the walls of the stomach (left) and duodenum (right).

These are different species but their effect is similar.

PINWORMS The adult worms live in the terminal bowel and females emerge from the anus to lay eggs on the surrounding skin. The irritation causes the horse to rub sideways on rails and other firm objects to which the sticky eggs attach. They then fall into feed tubs or are licked or chewed off by horses and the cycle begins again.

Bots

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up and swallowed, passing out in the faeces where they are eaten by a horse and the cycle continues

4.

When horses are drenched, they should be kept in individual yards for a few days and the owners should scratch through the droppings with a stick to see what is passed – large strongyles, ascarids, bots and pinworms are easily seen.

Individual horses will be found to have different burdens.

5.

Ideally, after the horses are released from the yard, they are put onto ‘clean’ pasture that has had no horses for several months, or has produced hay or a cereal crop.

6.

Hay, chaff and all processed feeds can be considered worm-free.

7.

Horses on remote or large properties are often considered to be fairly free of worms, but when they congregate on small green patches around watering points, they can become heavily infested.

8.

When admitting a new horse, it should be drenched with the most effective drug mixture available, and kept in the yard for a few days before being released.

9.

Local private vets can do worm egg counts and identification, and can advise what worms are present in the district. a

Tapeworms have large and small species.

The geographic distribution is restricted and a special drug is needed for their removal.

Stomach hairworm and liver fluke are mainly parasites of ruminants but are occasionally found in horses.

Treatment strategy Lungworm

1.

THREADWORM This worm is spread to foals through the mare’s milk or off the pasture. When they migrate in the foal’s tissues they can cause scours or spread the bacterium that causes rattles.

2.

Less common worms Habronema is a tissue worm, spread by flies to eyes, wounds and the digestive system where they form nodules.

Onchocerca is a tissue worm that is spread by flies to ligaments Lungworms live in the lungs, mainly of donkeys and foals. The larvae are coughed

3.

Most commercially available drugs registered for horses are reasonably effective against most species of internal parasites. Bot eggs can be shaved off the hairs to prevent infestation.

The few percentage of worms that are not killed by drenching are resistant and become the parents of the next generation of worms, and these will also be drug-resistant.

When vets nose-drench horses, they usually use a mixture of drugs that overlap in their spectrum and therefore kill almost all the worms.

It is relatively easy to clean out most of the worms in the horse, but preventing re-infection is much more difficult.

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ON HORSE CARE, HEALTH AND MANAGEMENT.

IT COVERS ALMOST ALL THE DISEASES, CONDITIONS AND SITUATIONS A HORSE OWNER IS LIKELY TO ENCOUNTER. 28 chapters, 304 A4 pages, 750 colour photos.

OUTBACK SCIENTIFIC PRESS PO box 2, Narrabri NSW 2390

Phone (02) 6792 6040 email defred@outbacksci.com.au web www.horsebook.com.au

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EQUITOPIA H O R S E S A N D H U M AN S I N H A R M O N Y

A

BY CARLA BAUCHMUELLER

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day doesn’t go by that we horse owners don’t make decisions about and for our horses from the miniscule to the major. The responsibility is huge and sometimes we get it right, and sometimes we don’t.

Remember the day your horse wouldn’t go forward. You kept riding and became more and more frustrated. Someone at the barn called him lazy. But something was telling you that wasn’t the case.

Then you found out that his saddle was pinching and it was pain that caused him to not want to move forward.

About then you became enshrined by overwhelming guilt for what you had asked of your horse.

If only they could talk. You want the best for your horse, but how do you know what is best? An unknown author wrote, “a good rider can hear his horse speak to him. A great rider can hear his horse whisper.”

How did this great rider get there?

I have found five keys that can help you get it right more often than not, and that may give you the tools to make competent decisions as the advocate of your horse.

EQUI HORSES

ABOUT EQUITOPIA As a nonprofit center, Equitopia serves horses, riders, owners and breeders with online and in person access to its team of educators who follow a whole horse/whole rider approach to education, training and health care. “Through education that considers all aspects of horse and rider wellness, we believe more horses will have successful lives in keeping with their nature. And the more knowledge owners and riders have, the better chance we have to decrease the number of horses needing rescue,” explains Caroline Hegarty, founder of the Equitopia Center. Through sound, research-based education, proven resources and compassion, “Equitopia is dedicated to providing the horse community with the knowledge, support and systematic guidance for horses to be the best they can be and live the lives they deserve,” Caroline explains. Based in Fairfield, California, at the 40-acre Fairwind Farm, Equitopia sponsors a series of clinics and symposiums covering horse and rider

wellness, equine behavior, nutrition, training, saddle fit and shoeing.

Equally important, the center continues to produce educational videos on a broad range of wellness and training topics.

The Equitopia team includes: Centered Riding Instructor Carla Bauchmueller Equine Nutritionist Dr. Clair Thunes, Phd. Eastern/Western Health Care Expert Dr. Joanna Robson, DVM Master Saddler Joachen Schleese Dressage, Jumping and Western Trainer Karen Loshbaugh Equine Foot Care Specialist Michael DeLeonardo Equine Behavior Consultant Lauren Fraser Director of Rider Wellness Victoria Tugwell For more information on Equitopia programs and the team, visit the Equitopia website at

www.equitopiacenter.com

ITOPIA KNOW WHAT YOU WANT

Be clear about your goals with your horse. What would you like to achieve? What’s important for you in your relationship and your work with your horse? How would you like your horse to be treated, by yourself and others?

It pains me to share the following, but it is a good example of what not to do. A couple of years ago, I gave my horse to a fellow trainer while I was on vacation. When I returned, he showed me how he had tried flying changes with my horse who clearly didn’t understand what was being asked of him. He cross fired and took off in a panic. The trainer violently pulled him to a halt and a fast rein back with the horse’s head up in the air, his back hollowed, his eyes wide in panic and pain. I watched totally upset, but I watched in silence.

A N D H U M AN S I N H A R M O N Y When your reach a clear vision of your goals, you will be able to communicate them to others and find a team of experts that’s in line with your philosophy.

Now I see that I needed to

communicate to the trainer that I wanted to give my horse enough time and space to understand the flying changes. Without that information, the trainer felt under pressure to prove that he could do it in a short time. And most importantly, I knew that what I saw was really bad, but I did not step up and protect my horse.

You can avoid situations like this when you know what your goals are and communicate them clearly to the person you want to work with, be it a trainer, a vet, a farrier, a body worker or a nutritionist.

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EQUITOPIA H O R S E S A N D H U M AN S I N H A R M O N Y

EDUCATE YOURSELF This is critical. Learn about horse anatomy, shoeing, saddle fitting, etc. If you want to make competent decisions for your horse, you need knowledge that your decisions can rest on. You can’t know it all, but you can train your judgement.

Your team of professionals will appreciate if they can discuss issues with you and feel that you understand. You’ll be able to participate as your horse’s partner and advocate when you can communicate where you would like things to go.

Stay open to what they are saying though. Make sure you listen to your experts and give them space and time to show you what their system is like.

Information abounds in the horse world, some of it contradictory. Only when you take on that hard earned knowledge will you have the tools to decide where you stand.

At a clinic recently, a client showed me the two $2,500 very nice, high quality saddles she purchased from a man who called himself a saddle fitter. The problem was the saddles did not fit her horse at all. It did not take an expert to see it. Some basic knowledge would have saved her from these disastrous purchases.

“Brutality begins where knowledge ends. Ignorance and compulsion appear simultaneously.” ~ Charles de Kunffy

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When you know what you want and have some basic knowledge, you want to look for the right people to work with. Maybe you already have experts you are very happy with. If not, talk to people you trust and that share your points of view to get referrals and recommendations. Ask the team members you already have for referrals. For example, your vet might know a great farrier or your trainer may be able to recommend a body worker she works with.

Before hiring someone, have a good talk with the professionals. Ask questions. Observe their work.

What kind of qualifications and experience do they bring? How about their ability to communicate and their compassion for the horse? Some professionals are highly qualified, but their way of treating your horse might not be what you want. Some might be the perfect fit for your friend’s sport horse but maybe not for your gaited horse. Your friend may be totally into barefoot trimming and it works fantastic for her horse, but your horse is extremely sensitive and you like to go trail riding. Your friend’s trimmer might not be the right match for you.

Once you have decided to work with someone, make sure to give them some time and space. Don’t jump too much between professionals and make sure they know about each other. Professionals cannot work to their full potential if they have to constantly negotiate and defend what they are doing or if they feel under pressure.

FIND THE TEAM

COMMUNICATE WITH AND BETWEEN YOUR TEAM MEMBERS

Great and successful horsemanship comes from centuries of accumulated knowledge and it comes from the experts next door. None of us can’t do this alone, and we aren’t alone. It takes a village, one that includes a vet, a farrier, a trainer, a saddle fitter, a body worker(s) (for yourself and your horse) and an equestrian nutritionist.

Once you have your team, help them communicate, give each of them a list with the names and contact

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Most of the time, only a team approach can really solve a problem. The members of your team should talk to each other and agree on the best course of action, especially when there is a problem.

Your horse deserves a well-fitted saddle or body work or whatever is needed to keep him healthy and happy

information for the members, and let them know that you appreciate them communicating. You might also be able to schedule overlaps, where your vet can meet your farrier or your trainer meet the body worker. Even paying for the professionals extra time spent will be worthwhile.

If your horse suffers, for example, from back pain despite having a proper fitting saddle, you would want your vet to check it out first. With his or her findings at hand, your trainer may in the center of this communication and communication is key.

You may need to talk to your farrier, or your horse may be sore and need bodywork or chiropractic. If these people don’t know what the others are doing, you might end up wasting your money and time and not getting your horse healed.

I have seen people spend a lot of money and effort on a horse with back pain and as soon as they changed the farrier, the horse was free from his back pain. This could have been avoided had the vet, trainer or body worker pointed this problem out to the client and referred them to someone who could solve the problem.

shank bit in the horse’s mouth was put in backwards upside down. One of the expensive trainers might have kept him from torturing his horse.

I couldn’t sum up better than this quote from Lucy Rees “Riding is a partnership. The horse lends you his strength, speed and grace, which are greater than yours. For your part, you give him guidance, intelligence and understanding which are greater than his.

Together you can achieve a richness that neither can alone.

Carla Bauchmueller is a consultant for the non-profit Equitopia Center and a Centered Riding Instructor and Trainer A of the German National Federation. “I appreciate the ability to work in a team approach as we do in Equitopia. By attending each other’s lectures and joining arms to work on a client together, we all learn so much and the clients and their horses benefit. “ a

BE PREPARED TO SPEND MONEY Classically, the cost to purchase a horse is much less than the amount you will invest in the care, maintenance and enjoyment of your horse. In truth, I have considerable respect for someone who buys a saddle that costs more than the horse that will wear it. Whether the horse is a $500 rescue or a $100,000 dressage miracle, he deserves a well-fitted saddle or body work or whatever is needed to keep him healthy and happy.

That costs includes proper training. I recently read an article in which the author essentially described how clever that he wasn’t paying for one of these expensive trainers who just want your money and don’t tell you anything new. With the article came a photo of his horse. The monstrous

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T

DI

N

V

ERGE

THEORIES•ON

g n i Fitt

By Jochen Schleese, CMS, CSE, CSFT ©2016 Saddlefit 4 Life ® All Rights Reserved

THERE ARE MANY OPINIONS AND THEORIES ON SADDLE FITTING. OCCASIONALLY WE HAVE EVEN HEARD RIDERS SAY “I HAVE BEEN USING MY SADDLE FOR X NUMBER OF YEARS. IT FITS ME PERFECTLY AND FITS EVERY HORSE I USE.” I HAVE TO REALLY BITE MY TONGUE ON THAT ONE BUT USUALLY JUST MANAGE TO SMILE AND SAY. “LUCKY YOU”. SOME PEOPLE ARE UNFORTUNATELY JUST NOT OPEN TO BEING EDUCATED ON THE FACTS THAT HAVE BEEN SUBSTANTIATED IN RECENT YEARS THROUGH MRIS, THERMOGRAPHY, AND FIBREOPTIC CAMERAS, AND DO NOT REALIZE THE POSSIBLE DAMAGE THEY ARE DOING TO THEMSELVES AND THEIR HORSES. I AM GOING TO DEAL WITH TWO MAIN THEORIES ON HOW TO FIT SADDLES PROPERLY, BUT THERE ARE PROBABLY SEVERAL OTHER VARIATIONS ON THIS THEME.

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This top view of the horse’s back shows the saddle support area as well as the red ‘triangle of doom’ that should always be kept clear of pressure behind the wither area.

BELOW: The LWT (Leather Wither Tracer) tool allows us to measure the shape of the withers and shoulder muscles and replicate this shape on paper to keep a history of a horse’s development or lack there of.

THEORY ONE Many saddle manufacturers and their trained saddle fitters maintain that a saddle should have a narrow channel, therefore sitting on the spinal processes and ligaments. The tree is long and flat (resting on the shoulder and lumbar area) and sits with minimal weight bearing surface on the musculature. In this scenario, the saddle barely moves because it is sitting on the spine (other than perhaps to twist during motion as it is ‘kicked back’ by the bigger shoulder – but this will be addressed in a future blog). This saddle rarely does need to be adjusted because bone structure and ligaments do not adapt and change their conformation through training like muscles do – and the muscles really won’t change much because the horse simply is not able to use his muscles properly with a saddle that fits like this.

Often people will say “my saddle always fits” or “my saddle fits any horse”. They are semi-right, because one advantage to this is that they do not have to have a saddle fit or modified. The horse doesn’t really change.

muscle. The horse will then develop a dip in front of its SI and the glutes will seize up. Between the SI joint and the tail, the gluteus will become atrophied (see image below). The front end of the horse will then push down the base of his neck and will ‘break’ over C3 in order to get on the bit. At this point it will become difficult for the rider to get the horse supple through the poll and have his highest point at the poll and not at C3.

THEORY TWO In complete opposition, the other theory (the one we like!) is for the saddle to stay off the spine, lumbar vertebrae, and shoulders – while maximizing the surface area the saddle sits on. The saddle support area is on the weight bearing longissimus dorsi (long back muscle). The advantage to having the saddle on the saddle support area muscle is

The disadvantage with this is the spine and ligaments will not tolerate prolonged compression and the horse’s back movement is restricted. To protect the shoulder, lumbar and spine, the horse will get tighter and tighter in its back (especially in the lumbar area), which leads to cramping in the gluteus maximus

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Jochen demonstrates some of the key reflex points that can be impacted by poorly fitting saddles especially CN11 (cranial nerve 11).

to stay away from the reflex points that create negative behaviour or negative conformation and health issues. Staying off the spine, lumbar area and shoulder keeps the back muscles loose and supple. Your horse can then articulate through the SI joint, and use his haunches better by stretching his gluteus maximus and hamstring.

In theory one, where the saddle sits on the ligaments, involuntary contractions (ex. cramping) impede correct co-ordination of muscle contractions and thus full range of motion is not possible. In contrast, theory two allows for both stretching and contraction of the muscle (full range of motion). The most efficient way to train is to maximize both flexion (contraction) and extension (stretching), and in order to achieve this, full range of motion is required. By reducing the pressure on the shoulder your horse will be able to lift the base of his neck and become supple through the poll. With theory number

RIGHT: This photo shows the result of negative effects of a Theory #1 fitting saddle. Dip in front of the SI (sacro-iliac) joint and atrophy between the SI joint and the tail.

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FAR RIGHT: This wither gauge made by Sprenger is used to determine not only the correct width but also the correct angle that the gullet plate needs to mimic in the adjusted saddle.

two, by allowing the horse to fully engage his muscles and lifting his rib cage, he will become more uphill and the balance of the saddle will need to be readdressed many times throughout his career due to his positive changes in his conformation.

In theory number one, because the saddle is mainly sitting on the spine, with limited contact on the back muscle, the horse will continue going but his body will take a toll. He will continue developing incorrect muscles and deformities will become more visible. Eventually, the atrophy in the back muscles and compression of the spine will lead to permanent damage. With theory number two, the increased range of motion will cause temporary soreness due to greater lactic acid build up (just like we have after using muscles during a new workout) which is nature’s way of recovering muscle fibre, but the result in greater muscle formation and increased circulation.

During acute soreness, keeping pressure off the muscle would appear to be logical, however, somewhere the saddle needs to be supported.

If the horse has been in ill-fitting saddles in the past that have caused some back pain (as in theory one), don’t be discouraged if your horse shows signs of muscle soreness after switching to a saddle fitted according to theory two, as this is good muscle soreness (as mentioned above). You can temporarily help your horse by having the back of the saddle a bit looser (by loosening the V webbing back clip for instance).

Yes, this will make the saddle move more in the back (up and down, not onto the spine!), and onlookers may misinterpret this as bouncing or an ill-fitting saddle. However, you will know if you choose to go with the theory number two, that this is part of the process to help your horse. It will help him heal, get stronger, and develop correctly. a

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A Herbalist VIEW ON

Equine Diet B Y C AT H E R I N E C O X - M C D O W E L L

O

ne of the most misunderstood situations that I come across in the management and treatment of horses is Diet. What concerns me more and more is the misunderstanding now that diet is a “Science” (as all feed companies will tell us!) and that common sense no longer applies. There is a lot of science out there these days- usually to justify a new product. The solution, however, is not always to supplement with inorganic macro and micro minerals.

Complexities arise from overfeeding, over mineralising of so-called “safe” inorganic vitamin supplements (which can put a strain on the kidneys and liver), and a general mixing and matching of a variety of complete feeds as competing brands argue their case.

Feeds should be from a whole source, with vitamins and minerals supplied by a broad range of whole grasses (supplied in either dried hay form or fresh grasses), whole grains and trace minerals supplied by herbs, rock salt and kelp.

There are many whole feed concentrates on the market, and I do recommend some of these in the general scheme of things, however, unless you are supplementing a major deficiency, then its best to maintain health with herbs as the main source of essential vitamins and minerals long term, and a very simple feed program.

This is especially true for the insulin resistance horse, which I am very familiar with. I have very specific herbal and management programs for these kinds of horses Like modern day diets which all come out of a packet, we have lost touch with

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our natural cravings. I often have people say to me that their horse won’t eat herbs (or have lost their appetite in general).

Usually, this is from the now universally accepted understanding that nearly every horse in work and stabled has to some extent an inflammatory bowel condition.

It does not take long for me to help the owner to change their mind, as the horse heals of the inflammation, so does his appetite and his craving for a healthier option is obvious when he turns up his nose at the more processed feeds.

Polysaccharide Storage Myopathy Polysaccharide Storage Myopathy is a disease that occurs when excess glycogen (storage form of glucose) or glucose-6phosphate (form of glucose taken into cells) is present in muscles.

Often referred to as PSSM, this disease is called equine polysaccharide storage myopathy, or EPSM, when it occurs in draft horses.

A clinical diagnosis of PSSM is made when a horse that suffers from exertional rhabdomyolysis (ER or Tying up symptoms) is found to have amylaseresistant polysaccharide in the muscle.

Amylase is the enzyme that breaks starches down to sugars. However, the build-up of amylase-resistant polysaccharide may take quite some time to build up before it can be detected for clinical purposes.

It’s erroneous to think that a condition like this does not occur without some environmental factor. And to me, the cause is feed practices that have evolved to be convenient for the human and not so helpful for the horses in question.

Add to this feeds that are genetically modified and not whole, over supplementation with minerals that may or may not be needed is the core issue here.

Add to this digestion issues from stress, and poor absorption from foods that no longer are identifiable by the horses system, and you have a situation that, like Diabetes in Humans, has appeared as some disease.

The genesis most ill health in both people and animals is the fundamental breakdown of availability of natural feeds and relaxed wholesome living, with plenty of exercise to boot…

What Science can tell us: There are two types of PSSM. Both types have an abnormal type of glycogen staining in muscle biopsies, and the types can be distinguished by genetic testing.

At present, there is not a specific genetic test for type 2 PSSM and Scientists do not have conclusive evidence of an inherited gene.

Interestingly, the feeds known to be problematic for these types of horses are commonly high in Genetically Modified grains/plants. This raises many questions for me in relation to these kinds of conditions.

Carbohydrates that are high in starch, such as sweet feed, corn, wheat, oats, barley, and molasses, appear to exacerbate type 1 and type 2 PSSM. That is why they should be avoided and extra calories can be provided in the form of fat. An important part of the management of PSSM horses is daily exercise. This enhances glucose utilization and improves energy metabolism in skeletal muscle. If only the diet is changed,

family. My grandfather had the “people’s home library” which was a compendium of all kinds of home cures.

CATHERINE MCDOWELL

Herbalist

I was first introduced to the concept of Herbal Lore when I was very young. I think one of the earliest influences I can remember was from my grandparents, who were very traditional Bathurst farmers of the well known Cox

studies show that approximately 50% of horses improve. If both diet and exercise are altered, then 90% of horses have had no or few episodes of tying-up.

Herbs, Epigenetics, and Immunity You may have heard about Epigeneticsthe idea that our genes are not fixed, and that certain genes can be switched on to health, whilst other disease allowing genes can be switched off.

A study done recently in Thailand shows how herbs alter genes and enzymes – see this link and excerpt from http://www.greenmedinfo.com/blog/ herbal-medicine-alters-genes-cell-mitosisand-epigenome for more details of the studies done and the source documents.

As with any condition that involves imbalances within the metabolism itself, I want to start with a herbal support that can address this at the core level. Herbal medicine is not about diagnosis of the disease and then treating the symptoms.

What I want to do is look at the cause.

Some of the Herbs I like to use as part of a whole food diet Oats and Millet - Millet and Oats both contain especially high levels of organic silica compounds as well as carbohydrate and many other minerals. Oats can be too hot for some situations; I would suggest that a daily cup of Millet as a feed supplement is sufficient to ensure all the silica required to produce tough bones and to aid in recovery from injury.

Linseed - is specific for strength and elasticity of ligaments and attachment points. A cupful (ground or boiled)

Herbal Medicine is, at its core, studying nature and the humanities. It’s about observing our diet, our environment and how we respond. Keeping a balance is difficult in the modern era as we are no longer interacting with our environment in the same way as we may have done even as little as a 100 years ago.

As a Dorothy Hall graduate working along side the well known Robert McDowell for many years and furthering my education with Dennis Stewart,

daily in a young horse's diet and regular application of raw linseed oil to the legs of young horses is the very best thing you can do for a growing horse to avoid a working life plagued by ligament injuries.

Both Millet and Linseed appear in my most popular Tendon and Bone formulation, which dramatically increases the speed of healing of injuries and prevents them from becoming chronic by completely resolving the injury.

I have developed my own unique application of herbal remedies.

Working primarily with animals (Horses and Dogs) has been the most rewarding. Having seen herbs work so well in so many cases has proven to me time and again the under-utilised power of herbal medicine. It is heartening to see now Vets, and some Medical Doctors seeing the traditional application of herbs as useful. My comprehensive service includes free animal consultations 24/7 via my web site, and face to face consultation in Bathurst. www.mcdowellsherbal.com

With free access to a natural rock salt block, kelp or seaweed meal, and the Rosehips tea there is no need to supplement with electrolytes which only deplete the horses system and can strain the kidney.

CONCLUSIONS: Preventative Maintenance is the first and best place to start in ensuring good health.

Chamomile - Chamolie has many properties and helps various conditions ranging from skin and nervous system problems to acting as an antispasmodic and a digestive aid. A good source of magnesium and potassium.

The exact same herbs discussed above can form the basis of a program for bringing on performance horses so that they have much healthier, stronger and more elastic ligaments and bones.

Chamomile is often used to treat colic, scours, and other gastrointestinal disorders. The preparation, in this case, is prepared with 1/3 cup of Slippery Elm Bark powder mixed into a sufficient quantity of cold tea to make a paste. One dose of this paste daily will completely heal the lining of the gastro intestinal tract when given as an uninterrupted 12week course.

For more information and personalised support, please contact me directly.

Rosehips -Rosehips Granules are one of the very best sources of natural Iron and Vitamin C. They also contain biotin for optimum hoof health. Rosehips play a major role in kidney rehabilitation and adrenal function and can be used to prevent Azoturia or "tying up". Routine usage will support kidneys weakened by stress and/or the regular use of electrolytes or diuretics.

Rosehips are an excellent mild Blood Cleanser, support circulatory health, adrenal health and connective tissue health.

Rosehips

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HANDY

HINTS P O P U L A R A D V I C E F R O M

H A N D Y F R O M

D R

J O H N

H I N T S

A N D

K O H N K E ’ S K O H N K E

P R A C T I C A L

O W N B V S C

R D A

CHECK OUT SOME GREAT TIPS FROM ONE OF AUSTRALIA’S MOST POPULAR AND KNOWLEDGEABLE VETERINARIANS! YOU CAN ALSO FIND MORE GREAT ADVICE ON HIS FACEBOOK PAGE WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/JOHNKOHNKEPRODUCTS

1.

Handy Hint: Feeding the pregnant mare

A mare requires a well-balanced diet with the correct amount of nutrients throughout her pregnancy to ensure the foal grows nice and strong and healthy. During the first 8 months of pregnancy the mare does not require any more feed than a dry mare. It is during the last 3 months that her needs increase. Energy needs will increase by 10% and protein by 22% as well as increase in mineral requirements during the 9th month.

During the 10th month there is a steady incline in nutritional requirements as the foal continues to grow. It is during the last month of pregnancy when requirements increase significantly as the foal is still growing as well as building up its own store ready for birth. The mare is also now starting to produce colostrum which is very nutrient rich. During this last month the mare’s energy and protein needs increase by a further 10% and mineral requirements also increase. It is equally important not to over feed your mares as it can lead to increased risk of foaling problems. Ideal condition score for a mare is around 2.5 and up to 3.5 during the last month.

2.

Hay types and substitutes

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As winter draws closer and extended dry conditions throughout Australia specific hay types can be harder to find. Lucerne hay seems to be the most popular choice for most horse owners but it can become quite expensive as supply becomes shorter. There are many other hay types that can be used for roughage in the horse’s diet. Cereal hays such as oaten, wheaten or barley are quite good. Pasture hay is also good particularly if it has a legume in the mix. Grass hays that contain native species are suitable, as well as Rhodes grass. Straw can even be used to make up the roughage in the diet. Some hay types may not be as high in energy, protein and other nutrients but a concentrate can always be added to the diet to balance this. Consider whatever is grown locally as it will probably be the cheapest choice. Things like sugar beet pulp, Speedi beet or Maxisoy type fibres can be used to substitute some of the fibre needs, they do digest quite easily though so it is still important to add some type of hay to keep the large intestine happy and healthy as it ferments the hay. As hay supplies decrease it is ok to use lower quality grades as long as they do not contain any mould or weather damage that may encourage mould growth.

3.

Greasy heel and how to avoid it

Greasy heel is a type of dermatitis that effects the back of the pasterns and the heels. Horses with white socks are at a higher risk of developing the condition. Greasy heel can start to develop with exposure of the white areas to UV light. This causes mild sunburn or a form of ‘solar dermatitis’. This area can then be scratched by abrasive dead and dry pastures. The moist conditions during winter allow the soil borne bacteria to enter the skin and thrive.

There are ways to avoid the condition developing such as applying sunscreen or a zinc cream to the white pasterns will help to avoid sunburn. Try to avoid muddy areas, pasture that contains abrasive stubble, or damp stables. Washing the pasterns of horses that are prone to the condition daily after exercise or when conditions are wet and muddy with a 10% Iodine solution and then drying thoroughly will help to reduce the colonisation of the microbes in this area.

small enough pieces so that when the food enters the stomach it can be broken down by the gastric secretions and enzymes. A horse’s teeth will develop sharp edges which will dig into the gums when they chew causing pain.

This is a particular problem with horses that are fed diets high in chaff and concentrate feeds as they do not require as much chewing as high quantities of hay and pasture. A horse that drops their feed when eating is an indication of a dental problem. Chewing is also important for the production of saliva which helps to lubricate the digestive system as well as buffer the stomach acid. Therefore, it is very important that you have your horse’s teeth checked on a regular basis by a qualified person that can ensure the sharp edges are filed off. Normally a check-up once a year is recommended.

5.

Keeping your horse warm through winter

4.

The importance of dental health for your horse

A horse’s teeth are the first part of the digestive system and a very important part. The teeth need to be able to chew and grind the food into

Horses, and in particular, older horses will use more energy through winter to keep themselves warm. You will need to monitor their weight through winter and increase their feed if necessary. Always provide shelter for your horse so they can protect themselves from cold winds and rain. If you do not have a stable available any type of shelter with a roof can help or even some large trees that they can stand under will help protect them from the elements. A lined or quilted rug will help to keep them warm. Double rugging works well too. Feed an extra biscuit of coarse hay at night, the fermentive process used to digest this will produce heat and help them to keep warm. a

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Q.

HEALTH

WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN COPRA MEAL AND RICE BRAN

BY DR TIM KEMPTON

A.

Copra meal and Rice bran are both high-oil products that are suitable for feeding to horses.

Both are used as sources of concentrated energy and are fed for conditioning and weight gain, or to supply extra energy in the diets of hard-working horses. Their similarities and differences are described below: Copra meal or coconut meal, is a product of coconut oil production and consists of the white fleshy part of the coconut. The oil in Copra meal (coconut oil) is a highly stable tropical oil, meaning that it is not prone to rancidity and can be stored for long periods.

Popularised as a ‘cool’ horse feed over 20 years ago, Copra meal contains 8-10% oil and 22% Crude Protein. It is extremely low in starch (1.3% starch) and sugar (NSC<12%) meaning it is a ‘cool & safe feed’. It contains about 15MJ Digestible Energy/kg DM (or 1.63 Mcal/lb DM) and high levels of trace-minerals that are commonly deficient in other feeds including rice bran.

Copra meal contains mainly saturated fatty acids of short and medium chain length. Short and medium chain fatty acids are quickly metabolised and available for use as ready energy for high intensity work. Lauric acid (the main fatty acid in coconut oil) is also associated with having antiviral, antibacterial and immuneboosting properties. Copra meal comes in either a meal or pelleted form and is typically a relatively inexpensive feed.

Rice Bran is the outer layer of the brown rice grain and is produced by milling brown rice into white rice. It is typically stabilised (achieved by heating it under pressure) as it is prone to rancidity in its raw state.

Now a popular horse feed, rice bran contains

about 15-20% oil and useful levels of good quality amino acids. It contains about 20% starch, 28% NSC and around 14.9MJ Digestible Energy/kg DM (or 1.62 MCal/lb DM).

Rice bran contains monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) and is rich in long chain fatty acids including Omega 6. It typically comes in pellet form and can be expensive. It is suggested that high levels of PUFA may cause cellular inflammation and can impact the immune response.

At a practical level... Both feeds can be and are fed for similar purposes. Both are often used to maintain condition, encourage weight gain and improve coat condition.

While both Rice bran and Copra meal do an excellent job of conditioning horses, Copra meal may have a better mineral profile and contains much less sugar and starch (12% NSC) than Rice bran (28% in Rice Bran) meaning it is less likely to make horses ‘hot’ or cause starch overload into the hindgut. Copra meal is also totally chemical free and is certified GMO free.

The oils contained in Copra meal are also very different to those in Rice Bran. Where Copra Meal is rich in saturated, short and medium chain fatty acids (which are stable and can be rapidly metabolised), Rice Bran contains higher levels of polyunsaturated and monosaturated, long chain fatty acids (which are less stable and more slowly metabolised).

Rice Bran and Copra meal can be fed together if desired. Both can also be fed with other hard feeds (i.e. grains). However, they should also always be fed in conjunction with ample fibre/ roughage feeds (i.e. at least 1% of bodyweight/ day of hay, chaff, or pasture), abundant clean water and a good-quality vitamin and mineral supplement.

Q.

MY 4YO GELDING SEVERED THE EXTENSOR TENDON OVER CANNON BONE OF NEAR SIDE HIND LEG, ACCOMPANIED WITH DE-GLOVING WOUND EXPOSING CANNON BONE.

HE HAS HAD SURGICAL CLEAN AND REPAIR AND NOW HAS A CAST. HE HAS BEEN IN HOSPITAL SINCE TUESDAY AND I AM BRINGING HIM HOME FRIDAY. HE WILL BE IN CAST FOR ANOTHER 2 WEEKS AND STABLED FOR UP TO 8 WEEKS. WHAT WOULD YOU RECOMMEND TO ASSIST WITH TENDON AND WOUND REPAIR, FIGHTING INFECTION AND MAINTAINING GUT HEALTH WHILE ON HIGH DOSE ANTIBIOTICS AND ANTI-INFLAMMATORIES? THANKS KAREN

ANSWERED BY CATH MCDOWELL MCDOWELL'S HERBALS WWW.MCDOWELLSHERBAL.COM

HEALTH T

o help clear infection, a course of blood cleansers and Colloidal Silver is advised.

Blood cleansing herbs that can be used are Garlic, Elecampane, Echinacea, Nettle, Maritime Pine, Yarrow, Kelp, Violet Leaves, Horseradish, Horsetail, Red Clover and Rosehips along with the Bach Flowers Crab Apple and Rescue Remedy.

To aid repair of the tendon and connective tissue

A combination of Comfrey along with Kelp Granules, Ground Linseed, Ground Millet, Yarrow Herb and the Bach Flower Rescue Remedy promotes the re-growth of attachment points and the re-tensioning of stretched or damaged ligaments. This mix also help to normalise the osteblast production.

Comfrey is a stimulant to fibroblast and osteoblast activity due to its allantoin content. It is also the highest vegetable source of Vitamin B 12.

The treatment is formulated as a mush in a base of ground roots and seeds high in silica, calcium, minerals and trace elements. A cupful is mixed with feed and given twice daily.

Anti-Inflammatory herbs

This treatment has evolved from a consideration of the dangers of administering phenylbutazone (Bute), routinely, to horses sensitive to its side effects.

White Willow Bark and Devil's Claw as antiinflammatory agents; Guaiacum as a lubricant, and Burdock as a blood cleanser for Rheumatoid processes as well as Pine Bark, Rosehips, Comfrey and Yarrow in a Vinegar Base supporting healing. The Bach Flowers Honeysuckle, Vine, Walnut and Rescue Remedy are also included.

All these herbs not only reduce inflammation and pain but assist in the healing process which will help reverse the underlying condition completely. These formulations may be used safely for both emergencies and in the long term for comfort. They do not swab and they do assist other equine herbal healing programs.

On Bone and Ligament health Oats and Millet - Millet and Oats both contain especially high levels of organic silica compounds as well as carbohydrate and many other minerals. As Oats can be too hot for some situations, I would suggest that a daily cup of Millet as a feed supplement is sufficient to ensure all the silica required to produce tough bones and to aid in recovery from injury. Silica is the key to balancing the calcium scaring that occurs in conditions like ringbone.

Linseed - is specific for strength and elasticity of ligaments and attachment points. A cupful (boiled and drained as too much raw linseed can be toxic) daily in a young horse's diet and regular application of raw linseed oil to the legs of young horses is the very best thing you can do for a growing horse to avoid a working life plagued by ligament injuries.

Both Millet and Linseed appear in my most popular formulation, which dramatically increases the speed of healing of all these sorts of injuries and prevents them from becoming chronic by completely resolving the injury.

Yarrow - is a herb which in extract form closes off blood vessels and acts as an astringent to help close up open wounds. Yarrow also stimulates bone marrow health and the production of red blood cells within the bone marrow again supporting the resolution at the most profound levels of damage or weakness following strain or injury.

White Willow Bark - is a herb containing natural salicylates and it is where the first aspirin was produced from. Of course, after humankind learned to produce the active ingredients chemically and were able to patent them, we were no longer interested in the herb, (which incidentally, as a whole herb produces no irritation to the stomach whatsoever). White Willow is a useful ingredient in a bone and ligament treatment program as it reduces inflammation naturally and will reduce stiffness and soreness to allow a more even exercise program during recovery without masking pain artificially, as do drugs.

Comfrey - in spite of occasional bad press, is the most important herb in speeding up healing of structural injuries. Mashed up Comfrey leaves mixed with Linseed Oil makes a poultice which will astound you with the speed at which ligament or bone injuries will completely resolve themselves when used in conjunction with the an appropriate selection of other herbs above.

Ulcers and Gut Health Chamomile flowers Nervous system support- P, K, mg in balance- aids digestion and can assist with preventing stress colic.

Rosehips Kidney /liver support, iron, vit c Cobalt. – Blood tonic.

Slippery Elm Powder 1/3 cup mixed with the chamomile tea and poured over the feed works as a pre-biotic.

I hope that you have found this information useful. If you have any further questions please don’t hesitate to ask. All these herbal extracts, programs and ointments can be purchased by contacting us directly on 02 6331 3937.

I hope that this is helpful, Cath McDowell. a

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