Canada’s Only National Horse Magazine DISPLAY UNTIL MAY 31, 2020
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PHOTOS
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SPECIAL FEATURES 34 Canada’s Coaches to be Licensed and Certified
What does it mean, and how will it change the landscape of Canada’s horse industry?
44 Cutting
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From show jumping team veteran to owner of a state-of-the-art horse training, breeding, and show facility.
New Zealand’s breathtaking landscape and farmhouse feasts combine in an extraordinary horseback adventure. www.HORSE Journals.com
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An unforgettable two-week pack trip through one of the largest and most diverse wilderness areas of North America.
64 The Land of the Long White Cloud Ride
72 Tani Zeidler
The sport that combines precision and athleticism with innate cow sense.
54 Immersed in the Muskwa-Kechika
34 Clix Photography | 44 Janice Reiter Photography | 54 Tania Millen | 72 Jump Media
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ON THE COVER: Some horses will test you. Some will teach you. And some will bring out the best in you. PHOTO: CLIX PHOTOGRAPHY
b IN THIS ISSUE
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64 DEPARTMENTS
HORSE HEALTH 10 Is Your Horse Getting Enough Sleep?
A new study has found that sleep-deprived horses are at risk of serious injury.
12 Diseases with Horse-to-Human Transmission
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A refresher on some of the diseases that can potentially be passed to us directly from the equines in our lives.
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20 Biosecurity Best Practices
How to reduce the risk of an infectious disease being introduced to your property and horses.
2 To Subscribe 8-9 Editorial, Letters 76 Horse Council BC News 78-79
Country Homes & Acreages
78, 81
Book Reviews
80 Manitoba Horse Council News 82 Canadian Therapeutic
Riding Association News
83 Index to Advertisers
PHOTOS
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10 SShutterstock/Grigorita Ko | 12 Shutterstock/Rolf Dannenberg | 20 iStock/BiancaGrueneberg | 64 Clix Photography
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PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK/ROLF DANNENBERG
Diseases with Horse-to-Human Transmission Source: UC Davis Center for Equine Health
Can you get a disease from your horse? Yes, but the good news is that direct horse-to-human disease transmission is rare. Here’s a quick refresher on some bacterial, fungal, parasitic, and viral diseases that can potentially be transmitted to us directly from the equines in our lives. This list does not include diseases like West Nile virus that can be passed indirectly from horses to humans, for example through an insect bite.
Conditions Commonly Transmitted
All those who spend time around horses should take precautions against the 12
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following conditions that are commonly transmitted from horses to humans:
on the back, muzzle, and limbs that characteristically form dry, “nobbly” crusts.
DERMATOPHILOSIS
Transmission: The bacteria can be transmitted from horses to humans through direct contact with infected animals.
Dermatophilosis is caused by the bacteria Dermatophilus congolensis, which enter the body through an open wound such as a skin abrasion, laceration, or insect bite site. Horses: Dermatophilosis is common in horses and is often known as “rain rot,” “rain scald,” “mud rash,” or “mud fever.” It is most often associated with prolonged exposure to moisture in the form of rain or sweat under blankets or tack. The disease can result in painful lesions and swelling
Humans: In humans, lesions typically occur on the hands and arms. Treatment and prevention: Topical and systemic antibiotics are used to treat dermatophilosis. For horses, it is also important to address management changes to keep animals dry. Although not life threatening, dermatophilosis can lead to secondary infections if left untreated.
PHOTO: WIKIMEDIA/JAMES HEILMAN MD
contaminated surfaces and accidentally transferring the bacteria from their hands to their mouths.
intestines (gastroenteritis) in animals and humans. In fact, it is globally the most common bacterial cause of gastroenteritis.
Humans: Many people show no symptoms of salmonella infection. Others may develop fever, abdominal discomfort, and diarrhea. Clinical disease can be mild or severe and severe cases can be fatal if not treated.
Horses: Infections in horses cause inflammation of the small intestine (enteritis) which leads to diarrhea.
Treatment and prevention: In humans, most cases resolve even without treatment. In horses, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be used to alleviate pain, and gastrointestinal protectants such as bio-sponge or activated charcoal may bind the bacterial toxin. Severe cases may require treatment with IV fluids and electrolytes. Since the organism is prevalent in the environment, prevention of salmonellosis is difficult. Identification of infected horses and strict biosecurity protocols are the best approach to preventing the spread of the disease.
Ringworm on a human leg, with mildly raised border and central clearing.
RINGWORM
Ringworm, or dermatophytosis, is an infection of the skin or hair caused primarily by the fungi Trichophyton equinum and Trichophyton mentagrophytes. Horses: These fungi live in the soil and horses can be exposed when they dig, roll, or lie down in dirt. The fungi can be transmitted between horses by contact with infected individuals and contaminated objects such as grooming equipment and tack. The clinical signs of ringworm in horses usually consist of patches of crusty, dry skin with hair loss, and circular lesions that are itchy.
Less Common Conditions
Conditions that are less commonly passed from horses to humans, but still warrant appropriate biosecurity precautions are:
CAMPYLOBACTERIOSIS
Bacterial species in the genus Campylobacter can cause irritation and inflammation of the stomach and
Transmission: The fungus can be transmitted from horses to humans by direct contact with an infected animal’s skin or hair or touching contaminated objects.
Transmission: The bacteria are typically transmitted through fecal contamination of the environment, and subsequent ingestion through food or water. People can become infected through horserelated activities, including cleaning stalls and grooming. However, you are more likely to be exposed to Campylobacter in uncooked or undercooked chicken or unpasteurized milk. Humans: Symptoms in humans include abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, fever, and vomiting. Treatment and prevention: Antibiotics may be used to treat infected individuals. Campylobacter infection is rarely life threatening.
CRYPTOSPORIDIOSIS
Parasites in the genus Cryptosporidium are an important source of gastrointestinal disease in humans and animals globally. These highly contagious parasites infect the intestine and cause diarrhea and weight loss. Horses: Cryptosporidiosis is most commonly seen in foals, especially those that are immunocompromised or stressed. Horses become infected by
Humans: Similar to horses, humans often develop a scaly, reddened, circular rash.
Campylobacter is the most common bacterial cause of gastroenteritis. People become infected through horse-related activities, including grooming and cleaning stalls.
Treatment and prevention: Infections often clear up without treatment, but medicated shampoos are effective in some cases.
SALMONELLOSIS
Horses: In horses, the bacteria are transmitted through contaminated feed or water. Transmission can also occur by direct contact with infected individuals or surfaces that have been contaminated with manure from an infected horse. Some horses are carriers that do not show any signs of disease but can actively transmit the organism. Carriers can become sick when under stress from surgery, transportation, changes, in feed, etc. Severe cases can be fatal if not treated. Transmission: People that work around horses can get salmonella by touching
PHOTO: CLIX PHOTOGRAPHY
Salmonellosis is caused by the bacteria Salmonella enterica and causes diarrhea in horses and humans.
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Biosecurity ON THE
FARM PROTECTING HORSES & HUMANS By Margaret Evans
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PHOTO: ISTOCK/BIANCAGRUENEBERG
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ith the current COVID-19 pandemic and Canadians’ alarm over how quickly a virus can spread across countries and continents, there is an understandable reaction to protect against infection from any and all viruses and pathogens. By extension, it is also essential that there is a level of biosecurity on your farm or acreage to protect horses against agents of disease. According to a document published by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) entitled National Farm and Facility Level Biosecurity Standard for the Equine Sector, infectious diseases in horses continue to rank as one of the major challenges for horse owners and managers. Diseases lead to illnesses that are sometimes fatal and can incur financial costs, welfare concerns, and possible risks to human health. Some infectious diseases are zoonotic, meaning they are caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites that can spread from animals to humans, putting people at risk.
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COACHES in Canada
PHOTO: CLIX PHOTOGRAPHY
to be Licensed & Certified
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By Margaret Evans At the Equestrian Canada Convention November 2, 2019, the Coach Licensing Program, which was unanimously approved by the Board, was unveiled. The plan is for all coaches to be licensed and certified by 2025. According to Equestrian Canada (EC), in 2019 over 1,500 coaches maintained their active certification status by paying the Coach Levy. National Coach Certification Program (NCCP) records show that since inception of the certification programs, there have been 3,205 coaches certified in English disciplines and 2,201 certified in Western disciplines. In addition, 20 coaches have completed driving certifications, and 265 coaches completed programs without a specific discipline designation. But the numbers do not necessarily give an accurate count of all active coaches. EC estimates that there could be some 5,000 coaches who will be seeking certification. That analysis comes from event registrations where individuals have identified as coaches against the certification database. “It is important to note that not all coaches have kept their certifications current and may not necessarily be active today,” EC says in a statement. “Outside of the Coach Levy, EC does not currently have an effective way of confirming the number of active coaches, as current national and provincial registration systems (outside of Quebec) do not require coaches to specifically register with their equestrian federations. The Coach License will enable accurate identification of coaches, allowing for increased communication, promotion, and support of coaches.” But the need for coaches to be certified and licensed has grown over recent years.
Certification and licensing will elevate the public standing of coaches and trainers, and the equine sector in general. Among the benefits will be the acknowledgement of our workers as professionals, and recognition of our industry’s contribution to Canada’s economy and society.
Perceptions and understandings have changed. “Society is changing; mindsets and expectations have shifted considerably over the past decade,” says EC President Meg Krueger. “Current and future horse enthusiasts come to equestrian with the expectation that the sport will provide a unique, respectful, safe, and inclusive experience. If we fail to meet this expectation, we will fail to attract and retain equestrians. It is our duty as equestrian stewards to share our passion so that future generations can continue to benefit from the unique experience our sport offers. In order to do so, we must stand united in offering safe, respectful, and inclusive equestrian environments. This means implementing standards for coaching.” Several factors accelerated the licensing process including:
• The implementation of mandatory coach certification that was strongly requested by the provincial and territorial sport organizations (PTSOs) and fully supported by EC for inclusion in the 2018-2020 EC/ PTSO Memorandum of Agreement. However, requiring all coaches to proceed to certification immediately is not feasible within the 2020 timeline, and the Coach License is the first step in a phased-in approach to mandatory coach certification; • The introduction of a series of Safe Sport requirements by Sport Canada and actions emerging from the Red Deer Declaration — For the Prevention of Harassment, Abuse and Discrimination in Sport, signed in February 2019 (www.scics.ca); • In Ontario, in accordance with Rowan’s Law, sport organizations are legally required to ensure access to concussion resources, establish removal-fromsport and return-to-sport protocols, and set out rules of behaviour to support concussion prevention. Rowan’s Law is in memory of Rowan Stringer, a high school rugby player in Ottawa, Ontario, who passed away in 2013 at age 17 from Second Impact Syndrome due to multiple concussions suffered within a short period of time. Following
PHOTO: CLIX PHOTOGRAPHY
PHOTO: CLIX PHOTOGRAPHY
What does it mean and how will it change the landscape of Canada’s horse industry?
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CUTTING A Sport of Precision & Strategy By Margaret Evans
Dustin Gonnet riding One Moore Reycy, owned by Robert Krentz, in the four-year-old open at the Heritage Classic, Chilliwack, BC.
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Life for a 19th century cowboy
was a steady routine of guarding cattle, moving them to grazing ranges, and driving them to market, often on long and difficult trails. But in those open range days, cattle belonging to one outfit would mingle and graze with cattle from other outfits. Twice a year in spring and fall, ranchers joined in a round-up of hundreds of cattle to sort out the different brands and reclaim their herds. Each outfit had a sizable remuda, or herd of horses, and each cowboy had his own string of horses that he would use for one purpose or another. One horse might be ideal for night patrol, another would be used to ride herd and keep the stragglers and wandering cattle contained, while another might be used for roping. But among a cowboy’s string of horses was one that seemed to have cows figured out better than most. It was his cutting horse — the mount he used to separate a single cow from the herd and keep it apart.
NCHA TESY OF THE
Bill Collins is one of Canada’s legendary horsemen. He has helped develop the sport of cutting in Canada and worldwide, has been a top rodeo competitor, and has mentored and taught thousands of Canadian youth.
knew that he had enough money to provide for his horse in his final days. Today, the Sam Graves Memorial Cutting is held annually at the Wild Horse Prairie Days Ranch Rodeo in Haskell. The first record of a cutting horse exhibition was held in 1919 at the Southwestern Exposition and Fat Stock Show in Fort Worth, Texas, then added to the annual rodeo as a competitive event the following year. Over the next two decades, cutting became so popular that a group of horse owners decided to form an association to set rules and procedures. In 1946, the National Cutting Horse Association was formed
PHOTO: JANICE REITER PHOTOGRAPHY
According to the National Cutting Horse Association website, the Cowboy Reunion received wide publicity from both the Dallas News and the Kansas City Star. This was a unique event and the cutting competition offered $150 prize money, a huge purse in those days. Thousands of people rode to the venue from miles away. Among them was Sam Graves who brought his 22-year-old cutting horse Old Hub out of retirement, filled him with oat mash and hay, then led him on a two-day journey to Haskell, quietly confident of Old Hub’s cutting skills. In total, 11 competitors entered but Graves and Old Hub won the purse. The horse went back into retirement and Sam Graves
PHOTO COUR
With pricked ears, a focused eye, strength, and nimble feet, the horse would have a unique sensitivity to anticipate every move the cow made. It would be able to quietly enter the herd to separate a particular animal without causing anxiety among the others. It would have “cow sense,” seeming to anticipate the cow’s every move, and possess the persistence to get the job done. For the cowboy, a skilled cutting horse made the job easier, safer, and more efficient. They knew too well that one spooked cow could start a lifethreatening stampede. A dependable cutting horse was valuable on so many levels. The horse was not only fun to ride but inspired riders to compare one horse against another in a display of showmanship and, almost by default, launched the sport of cutting. The very first advertised cutting horse competition was held in July 1898 at the Cowboy Reunion in Haskell, Texas, a small town some 80 kilometres north of Abilene. Haskell was originally called Willow Pond Springs when it was founded in 1885, but renamed after Texas Revolutionary War hero Charles Ready Haskell.
In 1964, Bill Collins and other top Canadian cutters, along with six cutting horses, spent three months in England demonstrating their skills to appreciative British crowds. Collins is demonstrating bridleless cutting.
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HOLIDAYS ON HORSEBACK
IMMERSED IN THE
Muskwa-Kechika
A place that changes you. By Tania Millen
I WATCHED INTENTLY as Wayne Sawchuk guided his horse up the far bank of
the Gataga River. I was riding Comet — a solid draft cross — along a sandbar awash with swirling grey water, while waiting for his direction. When Wayne swung his arm perpendicular to the roiling river, I turned Comet into the powerful current and grabbed the saddle horn as his feet were swept out from under him. He swayed from side to side like a ship in heavy seas while frigid water surged around my waist and I carefully balanced in the saddle. It was the summer of 2019, the first hour of a two-week guided pack trip through the vast, untrammelled Muskwa-Kechika Management Area (MKMA) of British Columbia’s Northern Rocky Mountains, and we were swimming our horses across a snorty river.
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PHOTO: TANIA MILLEN
< Of six clients, the
PHOTO: WAYNE SAWCHUK
The MKMA, named for the Muskwa and Kechika Rivers that flow through the heart of this massive wilderness, has long fascinated me. It covers 6.4 million hectares — twice the size of Vancouver Island and a similar size to Nova Scotia — and includes 50 unroaded watersheds. It also protects more species in greater abundance than anywhere else in North America, providing opportunities to see wildlife as they’ve existed for millennia. It’s also a mere 1,200 kilometres from my doorstep, and is best traveled by horse. Wayne Sawchuk is intimately familiar with the MKMA, having been involved with its protection for 30 years. In the
author (shown) was the only one who rode regularly, and two clients were on their first pack trip ever.
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HOLIDAYS ON HORSEBACK
The Land of the
LONG WHITE CLOUD Ride with _ Wild
Women Expeditions
Story and photos by Shawn Hamilton, CLiXPhoto.com
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O
ff grid, offline, and in sync with your breathtaking surroundings is the only way I can describe The Land of the Long White Cloud Ride with Wild Women Expeditions. On this ten-day ride hosted by Adventure Horse Trekking New Zealand in the South Island, one quickly learns to trust their mount as it carefully manoeuvres the trails clinging to the mountainside with the lake below. Civilization and the realities of everyday life are left behind and soon forgotten as you bond with fellow riders lunching alongside a babbling brook, or belting out familiar songs around the crackling fireplace in a herdsmanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hut. The remoteness of a four-day trek around the pristine turquoise coloured Lake Hawea, staying in huts typically used for sheep herders and fly fisherman, is paused only briefly for a day of tasting
local wines near the small town of Wanaka. You are then back in the saddle in the Ahuriri conservation area, climbing mountains for stunning views and galloping through the purple lupines and long grass of the valleys. Landscapes that can only be described as Banff on steroids, combined with traditional dishes slow-cooked with care and patience, makes this women-only riding vacation an unforgettable one. Although the South Island of New Zealand is a popular tourist hub, you cross flowing streams, climb high peaks, and ride along foxglove-bordered paths barely seeing a soul. Your four-footed transportation takes you to places that the average tourist never sees or even knows about. Passing the odd hiker or mountain biker while in the saddle, you remind yourself that they, too, are having the same exceptional experience.
The stunning view of Lake Hawea from Hunter Valley Station.
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