Better Horses - Summer 2024 Edition

HARNESSING THE HEALING POWER OF HORSES FOR VETERANS

WELCOME TO THE SUMMER EDITION

Welcome to the Better Horses Summer Edition;

Remember how much we complained about the cold? Me neither… now that winter is a distant memory and everything is now...damp and hot, let’s appreciate how we don’t have to blanket horses or break ice! (Looking on the bright side)

As a reminder, the Better Horses Newspaper comes out four times a year, Winter, Spring, Summer, and Fall. You can subscribe to Better Horses by going to betterhorses.com/media/#newspaper or by simply filling out the form on this page and mailing it in with your check.

For all the Better Horses readers and advertisers, below is a list of the new Newspaper schedule.

Scheduled print dates are:

Winter Edition: Prints Second Week of January

Ad Materials Due January 1st

Spring Edition: Prints Second Week of April

Ad Materials Due April 1st

Summer Edition: Prints Second Week of July

Ad Materials Due July 1st

Fall Edition: Prints Second Week of October

Ad Materials Due October 1st

We are thrilled to reveal Rural Radio Channel 147 has moved the Better Horses radio show to prime time now airing at 8pm eastern/7pm central for the summer. If well received we hope to announce a new time period for Better Horses radio. Thank you to all our listeners for supporting the program.

In this summer edition you will find valuable tips from professionals to keep our horses trained and healthy.

Remember the Missouri State Fair in Sedalia, Missouri, runs from August 8th to 18th. The Cowboy Mounted Shooting is August 8th and 9th with the Draft Horse Hitches running from August 15th to 18th.

The WDAA World Championship Show will be September 18th through 22nd in Guthrie, Oklahoma at the Lazy E Arena. And don’t forget about the Kleinschmidt’s Championship Rodeo September 21st and 22nd in Higginsville, MO.

If there is one thing equine owners realize is the number of events, disciplines, organizations and shows to attend. We here at Better Horses encourage all of you to try something completely different! Send us a 60 second audio tract to admin@betterhorses.com and describe what your horse did for the first time this year. Barrel Racing, Sorting, Reining, Mounted Shooting, Driving, Cutting, Dressage or Trail Riding. Give your name, horses breed name, age and how you did. We would love to share some of your stories with our listeners on the Better Horses radio show.

As always, we would like to thank you for watching, reading and listening to Better Horses.

ED ADAMS, CEO BETTER HORSES

FEATURED IN THE ISSUE

5. Harnessing the Healing Power of Horses for Veterans

6. Cowgirl Challenge Competition

9. A Lesson in Horse Sense

10. What’s the Best Way to Use Rewards in Horse Training?

14. Cowboy’s Codes of Conduct

18. Fergus

21. Quick Tips to Help Your Horse Beat the Summer Heat

22. Dressage Rider Borrows Horse for Seventh Olympics Competition

23. Champions Named at Santa Fe Trail Ranch Rodeo

24. Performance Horse Joint Health

27. What Can CBD do for Your Horse?

30. Eight-time World Champion Cowboy Ready for Comeback

31. The 411 on Equine 911

32. Upcoming Summer Rodeos

33. Tame Grass for Feed

35. It’s Never too Early to Start Planning to Sell Your Farm

TAKING

YOUR

HORSE EXPERIENCE TO A HIGHER LEVEL

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HARNESSING THE HEALING POWER OF HORSES FOR VETERANS

BY AMANDA HELD, FOUNDER AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HOOVES

H.O.O.V.E.S., an acronym for Healing of Our Veterans Equine Services, is a transformative nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting veterans through equine-assisted services. Founded on the principles of holistic healing and community, H.O.O.V.E.S. leverages the unique bond between humans and horses, paired one of a kind curriculum, to facilitate profound personal growth and recovery for veterans who have experienced trauma and mental health challenges.

At the heart of H.O.O.V.E.S. is a deep understanding of the therapeutic potential that horses offer. Horses are naturally intuitive and sensitive creatures, capable of reflecting the life inside of the humans in their space. This innate ability makes them exceptional partners in healing, providing veterans with a nonjudgmental and responsive presence. Through various equine-assisted activities, veterans can explore their emotions, build trust, and develop healthier coping mechanisms.

A COMPREHENSIVE APPROACH TO HEALING

H.O.O.V.E.S. offers a unique, immersive experience for veterans, centered around a five-day healing intensive program held at their serene farm. This program is designed to create a safe and supportive environment where veterans can engage in introspective work and connect with others who share

similar experiences. The healing intensive combines equine-assisted activities with nature-based techniques, fostering a holistic approach to mental health and well-being. And the best part is that it’s offered at no cost to our veterans.

COMMUNITY AND CONNECTION

H.O.O.V.E.S. is not just about individual healing; it is also about building a supportive community. The organization recognizes the importance of camaraderie and mutual support among veterans. The five-day intensive program encourages veterans to share their stories, build connections, and support one another through their healing journeys. This sense of community extends beyond the program, with H.O.O.V.E.S. fostering an ongoing network of support for veterans.

PARTNERSHIPS AND OUTREACH

H.O.O.V.E.S. has garnered significant recognition and support for its innovative approach to veteran care. Recently, the organization was accepted as a charity partner for Seen Through Horses, with all proceeds going towards saving a veteran. This partnership highlights the broader impact

of H.O.O.V.E.S. work and its commitment to expanding its reach and resources to help more veterans in need. Looking ahead, H.O.O.V.E.S. is committed to expanding its services and continuing to innovate in the field of equine-assisted services. By collaborating with other programs and hosting facilities nation-wide, H.O.O.V.E.S. aims to further the accessibility of equineassisted activities to reach more veterans. The organization also plans to increase its outreach efforts, ensuring that more veterans have access to the healing power of horses.

CONCLUSION

H.O.O.V.E.S. stands as a beacon of hope and healing for veterans, offering a unique and effective approach to mental health care. Through the transformative bond between humans and horses, veterans are given the tools and support they need to navigate their healing journeys. H.O.O.V.E.S. is not just about therapy; it is about building a community, fostering connection, and harnessing the power of horses to create lasting change in the lives of those who have served. You can learn more about their mission at hooves.us or socials @hoovesforvets.

Amanda Held, Founder

The H.O.O.V.E.S sanctuary is based in Swanton, Ohio, supporting veterans across the United States.

COWGIRL CHALLENGE COMPETITION

BY ANGELA JOBE

You could say I had no business signing up for the Perry Quarter Horse Extreme Cowgirl Challenge. The whole experience was a consequence of one last minute decision to answer a simple email, “We have an opening on a team. Are you interested?”

I enthusiastically answered YES! Yes I am! Sign me up! Having no idea which events I would be competing in and no idea who my teammates would be, I threw caution to the wind and sent in my entry fee. Pulling up the website to see what I had gotten myself into I was excited to see an extreme obstacle course. Oh yes I can do that one! Reining. Cutting. Steer Stopping. All events I had no experience with. Well this should be interesting!

The sun was shining and it was a cool brisk morning as I punched the address to Leoti, Kansas, into my GPS. Eight hours! It was

eight hours to Leoti, KS! A minor detail I had overlooked. My longest solo trip pulling the living quarter trailer was a mere four hours. Flying high on full steam anxiety I pulled out of the driveway and was on my way! Many small towns with charming down town squares, a local Co op for diesel and a quick slice of pizza later, Perry Quarter Horses loomed in the background. I had arrived!

Checking in was quick and painless. I grabbed my goody bag, got my mare squared away in her stall and parked the trailer. There were horses everywhere! The little girl in me was giddy seeing the meticulously groomed horses. Pens of well-bred yearlings, who although were in their awkward stages, were well put together and quite the lookers! Women were milling around, getting settled for the weekends activities. There were a few

booths to shop at and a delicious food truck to keep our bodies fueled up.

The obstacle course was open for practice so I saddled up. With the course being about a mile and a half through a field and out in a pasture, it was the perfect opportunity to let my mare stretch her legs after the long drive. We eased into a canter and flew across the ground dodging prairie dog holes and cactus. Arriving quickly at the course, I assessed the obstacles before me. A gate, lope poles, drag, bridge, trot poles, spin, back up, and side pass. All obstacles we had successfully completed before.

After a little practice I headed back to the ranch, and met my team. Two hailed from Texas and two from Colorado. Our team had changed considerably since I had signed up. Four out of the five of us had signed

BETTER HORSES

up last minute filling spots that others had abandoned for one reason or another. We all had different backgrounds as well as individual personalities, but the one thing we shared was none of us had competed in any of the events at this Cowgirl Challenge. Boy were we in for an adventure!

Over the next three days we competed in the obstacle competition, a reining pattern and cutting. There were a lot of laughs, a few cuss words mumbled under my breath but many smiles. We all shared the excitement and joy of a finished ride. The more experienced teams shared tips and suggestions on how to achieve the results we desired from our trusty steeds who were also competing in events for the first time.

The last event I competed on was steer stopping. Only one lady from each team had competed in this event. I use the term competed very loosely! I didn’t even know for sure what to expect. Our original steer

stopper was unable to compete at the last minute so I stepped into the spot knowing that it was unlikely I would catch, but thrilled at the chance to try something I had never done on my horse. The other steer stoppers showed me how to hold my rope and gave me some pointers. My turn came. My mare, Kansas, and I chased a nimble calf. We kept up but my loop came up empty! It was truly an exhilarating 60 seconds.

Once the weekend was behind me I felt a huge sense of accomplishment. While my preparations for the Cowgirl Challenge were less than stellar, I was delighted with my achievements. Personal fears were conquered of traveling alone. I will forever treasure the new friends and comradery with ladies that I will probably never see again.

Jobe and team after completing the steer stopping portion of the competition

Hereford cattle have been at the heart and soul of our family for four generations.

We have loved showcasing our Herefords at the Missouri State Fair every summer. Meeting up with friends, competing in showmanship, and enjoying ice cream from Gerken’s after the Hereford show are must-have fair traditions.

Sharing good times and making memories with all of our family and friends at the fair continues to be our summer’s best story!

—The Reed Family “

A LESSON IN HORSE SENSE

A veteran trail horse’s unusual behavior leads to an important discovery–and a lesson in equine instinct

BY JEAN MILLMAN

Not long ago, I had a lesson in “horse sense,” courtesy of my Quarter Horse gelding, Bull.

I had been wanting to try my younger gelding on a trail ride, so one day I invited a friend to join us aboard Bull, an experienced trail horse. We headed up a path that Bull and I had taken many times. But at the top of a short hill Bull spooked. My friend encouraged him to move forward, but still he balked.

Jean Millman was surprised when her normally steady mount, Bull, repeatedly balked at going up a familiar trail.

Not wanting to have an accident with either horse, we turned off the path into a field of corn stubble. Once away from the hill, Bull settled down and his normal demeanor returned: He was once again a steady but alert trail horse. But I had no clue to what had set him off. So, although my green horse had handled the ride satisfactorily, I knew I would need a session with the older horse.

The next weekend I headed out alone on Bull along the same route. Again, at the top of the hill, he spooked and spun. Bull and I had handled these situations before, so I kept him pointed forward and tapped him with my whip. He took a few tentative steps. I still could not detect the source of Bull’s anxiety, but I suspected he was reacting to the scent of a decaying carcass.

A SHOCKING DISCOVERY

Slowly, haltingly, we approached the section where the path crossed under high-tension wires attached to large utility towers. Then I heard it: a definite hum or buzz from above!

I looked up and saw one of the wires was frayed, possibly from a lightning strike or an errant shot from a hunter’s rifle. Luckily, the wire was high enough for us to safely pass below it. So, I encouraged Bull forward and we cautiously proceeded under the humming wire, completing the trail ride without further incident.

Upon returning home I wondered about the safety of that path, since the weakened wire could possibly break. I contacted my father, who was superintendent of construction for the local utility, and gave him the location of the path. He forwarded this information to a crew, but they could not locate the defective wire.

During a summer job I had marked utility poles with aluminum numbers, so I knew the poles and towers were numbered according to their position on a map grid. If I obtained the numbers of the two supporting towers, I could diagram the location of the problem.

So, the next weekend I took Bull out to the site again with pencil and notebook. We braved underbrush and rough terrain to access

CONNOLLY EQUINE

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JOE & KATELYN

Linwood, Kansas

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connollyequinesales@hotmail.com

the numbers of the towers at each end of the span containing the frayed section. I sketched a diagram to pinpoint the defect and gave it to my father, who again assigned it to a crew. A report soon followed: success! The foreman even joked about giving me a task code for the wire maintenance, but I figured Bull would need one as well, since it was he who had discovered the problem.

MISSION ACCOMPLISHED

Again, I rode Bull to the location to survey the repair. Now when we reached the hilltop there was no spooking. I could see a neat, foot-long splice where the frayed wire had been. Even better—no humming or buzzing!

Since that experience I have always doublechecked any area where my horse hesitated or shied unexpectedly. I had sensed the buzzing about 30 feet from its origin, but Bull had heard it 100 feet away with ears at least three times more sensitive than mine.

The lesson: Pay attention to your horse’s reactions—there could be something unusual in the vicinity that is nearly undetectable to you, and maybe even dangerous.

MARK

GRATNY

quarter horses

TRAINING SHOWING LESSONS COACHING BREEDING SALES

Prospects and All Around horses for sale at all times! 25616 183rd Street; Leavenworth, Kansas 66048

Phone: 913-683-3838 Email: mgratnyqh@gmail.com

WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO USE REWARDS IN HORSE TRAINING?

BY EQUUS–JANET L. JONES PH.D.

Edible rewards are such potent training tools that you’ll want to make sure to use them only to encourage desirable behaviors. Here’s how…

“May I give your horse a treat?” Friends ask this question out of kindness, and it’s hard to say “no.” But edible rewards are such high-test tools that they can hinder a horse’s training when offered indiscriminately. Success with treats depends on exactly what the horse is doing at a given moment, and on which behaviors you want to encourage or discourage.

The equine brain learns largely by association—linking an action to a consequence. Let’s suppose Monty is bobbing his head up and down over the stall door. Our new friend hands him a chunk of apple because she wants to be nice. Yum! A mental association has formed: Bobbing equals apples. Next thing you know, Monty’s smacking his head up and down harder, more often, and in other contexts, coaxing us to fork over some apple strudel.

Edible treats are like race cars—they work extremely well, but only if you know what you’re doing. One or two instances can be enough to create a new behavior. When it’s a behavior we want, associative clout is wonderful. But we’re less pleased when it’s a behavior we don’t want, like a horse bobbing his head into somebody’s face.

To accommodate a horse’s associative talents, provide the right rewards at the right time, and only for behavior you want to encourage. Usually, the right rewards are nonedible. Unfortunately, we’ll have to tell our treat-wielding friends “no” more often, but our horses and our safety—and theirs—will be better for it. If we understand how horses form associations, we can use behavioral rewards to teach them ground manners, under-saddle performance and the occasional mounted

masterpiece. Reward is the most effective form of associative learning because it creates a physical connection that is as real as the spark that moves a piston.

HOW HORSES FORM ASSOCIATIONS

Most mammals learn by association. Some are much better at it than others, and horses land near the top of the class, thanks to their neurology. Basically, a group or network of neurons represents an action. Think of a simple equine action, like bobbing a head. The brain controls the motion of lifting the head up slightly then allowing its weight to fall as the neck stretches downward. Each time the network fires, the head bobs.

Most people assume that a reward is something very special. But in fact, it’s anything desirable. For a horse, that may be a rest from work and pat on the neck.

When neurons fire an electrical impulse, their capacity to reactivate remains strong for a few seconds afterward. The associative engine is primed. During the initial activation, or the primed state that follows, any external event can be linked with the initial network. If an apple arrives while the head-bobbing network’s potential to fire is still high, the equine brain will form a connection between the two. Long-term potentiation, as this phenomenon is called, is the Ferrari of horse training—but to train well, you have to learn how to gun the engine without making it backfire.

Cognitive scientists refer to this learning process with an easy verbal reminder coined by Donald Hebb: “Neurons that fire together, wire together.” How? When two networks fire at or very near the same time, chemicals made in the brain are released to strengthen the bond. They shoot across tiny gaps between the two networks and are absorbed by the receiving

neurons. They’re like glue that strengthens a new link while it’s under construction.

DOPAMINE HITS

But wait, there’s more! When the second network represents something very pleasant— like a behavioral reward or an edible treat— dopamine wells up in a clump of brain cells called the nucleus accumbens. Dopamine is a “feel-good” substance for human and equine brains. Food when we’re hungry, drinks when we’re dry, laughter when we’re sad, safe completion of a risky maneuver—the happy feeling of these satisfactions comes from dopamine release. Such feelings are so powerful that humans can consciously destroy their health with insatiable appetites for food, alcohol, drugs or extreme sports that kill. So, let’s review: Neurons representing an action (head-bobbing) fire when a different set of neurons representing a reward (apple) also fire. The brain’s natural chemicals glue the new link together while it’s forming. Practice strengthens the bond. Add reward for a quick shot of dopamine, and you’ve got a level of satisfaction that’s off the charts. Horses remember those lessons and want to learn more.

REWARDS: A DELICATE BALANCE

Humans learn the same way. But human minds trowel many layers of modification over the top of simple associative learning. These layers include cultural standards, social mores, semantic knowledge, personal hopes and expectations, episodic and procedural memories, perceptual filters, ethics and values, cognitive controls, attention, peer pressure, the weather, and all the muscle of varying emotions. OK, maybe not so much the weather, but you get my point: Our minds are stirring a thick brew that often overrides the automatic force of a reward.

BETTER HORSES

Adults are motivated more by a sense of self-regulation than a desire for accolades. We want control of our fates, responsibility for our successes and failures. Even when personal control is limited, we are motivated by believing it exists. Horses don’t care if they are manipulated into a behavior by their desire for a spoonful of sugar. Humans do. Excessive praise backfires with us, especially when proffered for mediocre skills or easy tasks. Over-praised riders, for example, are often discouraged by minor failures and stop trying to improve. An analysis of 128 studies on human motivation shows that too many extrinsic rewards can damage people’s sense of responsibility for achieving their own satisfaction.

Abundant rewards backfire with horses as well. They have less power to shape an animal’s behavior if they are doled out frequently. Treats become run-of-themill, more like an aid to nutrition than an opportunity for learning. It’s the surprise of unexpected rewards that produces the greatest release of dopamine in the brain. Preserve your horse’s educational interest by commending when a new action needs reinforcement or a complex maneuver is finally achieved. (The definition of “complex” depends on your horse—something that is difficult for that horse to do, at that time, in that setting.) Up the ante as your horse learns: Two steps of backing are praise-worthy at first, but eventually it should take 20 steps— smoother, straighter, rounder—to earn the same prize.

THE MANY FORMS OF REWARD

Most people assume that a reward is something very special. But in fact, it’s anything desirable. Horses desire rest, known locations, quiet, equine buddies, familiar people, calm voices, gentle handling, soft hands, clear direction, strokes on the neck, wither scratches, soothing words, consistency, routine, downward transitions … the list goes on. The better the reward, the deeper the

associative learning. In other words, we can adjust the value of positive reinforcement by altering the type of reward.

Edible rewards become quickly associated with good or bad behavior.

To horses, edible rewards—treats—are crème brulee in Waterford crystal. They become associated with good or bad behavior very quickly. When a horse performs a rare and much-desired act that is complicated, goes against equine nature or has been deeply resisted, he deserves a treat. The rest of the time, train with non-edible rewards. The treat is too powerful to use often.

Treats have another downside: The horse always wants more. He’ll mug for a second tidbit, then gently touch your arm to remind

you of your obligation. There’s nothing so bad about a soft touch, but horses can escalate quickly at the prospect of a scrumptious nugget. Over the course of time, they can go from nudging to knocking you down, and from cute baby-nibbles on your sleeve to bone-crushing bites through your arm. Horses don’t know they can hurt you—they just want the candy machine to work.

NON-EDIBLE REWARDS

Make a list of all the non-edible rewards you can offer your horse. Rank the items based on your horse’s desires—every horse is different—and on your ability to deliver the reward at the right time. Most horses find wither scratching and neck stroking much more pleasant than patting. Stroking a horse’s neck reduces his heart rate. It can be done within a second or two of good behavior using the back of your fingers while holding both reins—a distinct advantage when you need to reward at a hand gallop and prefer to avoid a face plant.

Verbal praise is effective during mounted feats because you don’t have to change your body position to provide it. Pair it first with better rewards, so the horse learns that “good job” is a form of praise. After that, the words alone will do the trick. Just avoid the common error of associating verbal praise with slower motion—you don’t want your speed jumper to put on the brakes every time she hears an attagirl.

TIMING IS EVERYTHING

Rewards must be given within 10 seconds of the behavior you want to reinforce.

The biggest challenge with reward-based training is getting the timing right. Equine research demonstrates that the reward must ensue within 10 seconds of some tasks for an association to be formed. Intervening behaviors cannot occur during that period because mammals associate a reward with whatever happened immediately preceding it. Mistiming is especially detrimental when the

While training horses, it’s important to reward behaviors you are looking to reinforce.

reward is a delicious treat. The importance of timing changes with species as well: A dog can be reinforced effectively many seconds after a behavior. Not so with a horse. If you have to fumble around in your pocket for a treat, or were slow to notice a desired behavior, it’s too late. The spark has missed the piston.

Another problem with timing is the failure to discriminate among various actions that the horse is performing at the instant of long-term potentiation. If Monty is standing quietly, minding his manners, then a reward will reinforce that good behavior. But if he’s wiggling, pawing, bobbing, nudging, touching, nibbling, pushing—any manner of misconduct—the same reward will reinforce his bad behavior. Once is enough for quick learners, though most horses require two or three associations for the lesson to stick.

“POWER

MOMENTS”

The most robust instants of a training session (what I call “power moments”) occur just before cooling the horse out, just before you dismount, and just before you return the horse to her stall or pasture. Why? Because rest creates great comfort in the horse.

Use power moments wisely. When you get the perfect slow lope, end your session and cool the horse out. He’ll want to lope like that next time, in hopes of winning the cool-out lottery again. If your horse dislikes backing, have him back one or two steps just before you dismount. Your dismount is the berries. If your horse gets ahead of you on a lead, stop him at his stall door, wait, then put him away. Entering his stall is the Nobel Prize. Whatever simple action your horse avoids, get him to perform a bit of it during a power moment, and you will be teaching a potent lesson.

ACCIDENTAL REWARDS

An equally potent lesson occurs when we accidentally reward negative actions during power moments. If you quit a training session in disgust at your horse’s refusal to lope slower than 50 mph, you have just rewarded

him for his speed. Dismount while the horse is dancing around and you have rewarded him for unsafe behavior. If the horse hurries you into his stall, you have taught him that pushing is acceptable. Think about how the horse is behaving and whether you are inadvertently rewarding bad conduct.

Pairing the right reward for the task with split-second timing might seem like an impossible standard of perfection. Just try your best, and with practice you will improve. Eventually, associative training becomes second nature. The best trainers manage such unions all day long with little conscious attention.

GROUND MANNERS AND MOUNTED PERFORMANCE

With the well-timed use of rewards, horses learn many positive behaviors. Ground manners are taught by reward, so the horse learns to stand in cross-ties, to defecate or urinate in accepted locations, to allow ears and underbellies to be clipped, to receive injections and to lift all four feet. Using associative timing, we teach horses to walk safely on a lead, learning to stop, turn, slow down, speed up, wait or back just by noticing human body language. Ground manners prevent injuries to horses and handlers, and they allow veterinarians and farriers to provide care.

Mounted training is also improved with positive reinforcement. An unstarted horse has a lot to learn. He doesn’t know that the saddle is heavy, or that the bit feels cold, or that you won’t hurt him. Likewise, he doesn’t know how to walk a straight line or turn a corner in the arena when he reaches it. He doesn’t know how to keep his balance while carrying you around that corner. With reward-based training, we ease the unstarted horse’s process of learning, relieving his anxiety and earning his trust.

LASTING RESULTS

Associative learning by reward works long after basic training is complete. Hunters and jumpers don’t just automatically trot through

ground cavaletti. They’ve been taught through reward not to touch the poles. Later they will be taught by reward to hop crosspoles, and someday with talent they might learn to leap obstacles that stand five feet tall and seven feet wide. In training for any discipline, the horse must come to understand what we want. The best way to convey that is through reward. Horses learn to generalize associations, too. Suppose you have taught your horse to avoid touching ground poles in the arena. Without generalization, a horse sometimes associates place or time, rather than action, with a given behavior. He could come to believe, for example, that he is not to touch poles when they are painted yellow or located in the covered arena. He’ll need to learn that the lesson holds for all poles in all places. Generalization occurs by practicing new moves in other locations, or with different equipment, using mild rewards. It’s easy to induce.

All horses learn through reward that humans feed and water them. When food is slow to arrive, they put up a fuss. If irresponsible humans forget to fill a water trough, horses will stand near it, whinny, hop, kick, buck, push on the fence, and protest until they get our attention. Zoo-raised horses don’t even know they need to seek food and water when released into the wild. Captive horses have learned, through the associative reward of previous feedings and waterings, that we hold the keys to life.

Gold stars don’t always have to come from us. Many horses learn to escape their stalls to seek edible rewards. Note that this is still reward-motivated behavior: There is something desirable outside the stall that the horse wants—a basket of treats, a path to the pasture, or a cute mare down the aisle. It’s also dangerous behavior: If your horse escapes to the grain bin, the resulting binge puts him at risk of laminitis or worse.

EXTINCTION: AN UPHILL BATTLE

Anyone who has allowed a horse to bite at long grass while out on the trails knows that once taught, a given behavior can be very difficult to change. Extinction refers to the effort to eliminate a pattern of association. Rewarded misbehavior is especially difficult to extinguish, for two reasons. First, misbehavior is often based on instinctual movements developed over millennia of evolution. Pawing, for example, is a natural activity for a bored, hungry or thirsty horse who is confined. Teaching the horse not to follow this instinct will be a challenge.

Second, horses rarely forget a lesson that was once accompanied by an extremely desirable outcome. When horses paw in cross-ties, what often happens next? Yep, their owners become exasperated and put them away. Food, water, rest, comfort and buddies await—a five-factor reward!

The moral of the story? Be careful what you teach your horse by reward, because he might remember it forever.

Reward is the most effective type of associative learning in horses. The brain physiology of long-term potentiation means that we must rate the value of rewards carefully and offer them at the right moment. Handing a horse treats because he’s cute, or allowing a friend to offer him delicious goodies, usually leads to trouble. Instead, save special treats for special performance. In the meantime, train with non-edible rewards. Introduce your new friend to your horse and let her stroke his neck or shoulder. Both parties will appreciate that higher level of care.

COWBOY’S CODES OF CONDUCT

BY FRANK J. BUCHMAN

Some words on behavior from four silver screen icons from long ago may be more relevant, and needed, today than ever.

The West has long been associated with honor, bravery, and the pioneer spirit of heading into the unknown to make a better life.

Today, the West continues to celebrate that “cowboy spirit” of adventure and entrepreneurial pursuits. Yet, nine times out of ten, the word “cowboy” is being used as a negative or a derogatory term describing improper or distasteful behavior.

Some of the politest and most self-effacing individuals made their living on horseback or in the livestock business. They did the endless work, they took care, they were the people who invented our civilization, theirs was a tradition of civility.

Their principled behavior became codes of conduct that many of America’s cowboy heroes of the past promoted and illustrated for viewers back in the early days of Western television shows.

So, living like today in a more politicized and polarized society, it’s difficult to see how

everybody wouldn’t be better off by simply following and practicing a bit more openly some of these simple rules of polite and thoughtful deportment.

The world would be a much friendlier place if we all acted, say, a little bit more like Gene Autry, Roy Rogers, The Lone Ranger, and Hopalong Cassidy.

Following are “cowboy codes” that were popular in the late 1940s and 1950s. These creeds and rules are from some of America’s favorite silver screen cowboy heroes, and they seem surprisingly timely.

GENE AUTRY

Singing cowboy songs, Gene Autry rode his famous horse named Champion in at least 93 movies and 91 television shows.

A world-renowned professional rodeo contractor, often entertaining at those rodeos, Autry also made worldwide public appearances. He and Champion performed at the Tri-County Fair in Herington which Grandma attended.

Autry made more than 640 recordings with 300 songs he wrote, including “Here Comes Santa Claus.”

War hero, rancher, baseball team owner, cowboy museum developer, radio, television, real estate proprietor, and comic book personality with signature cowboy toys, Autry was the most financially successful silver screen cowboy.

He’s the only entertainer to have five stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame: radio, recording, motion pictures, television, and live performance/theater.

1. The cowboy must never shoot first, hit a smaller man, or take unfair advantage.

2. He must never go back on his word, or a trust confided in him.

3. He must always tell the truth.

4. He must be gentle with children, the elderly, and animals.

5. He must not advocate or possess racially or religiously intolerant ideas.

6. He must help people in distress.

7. He must be a good worker.

8. He must keep himself clean in thought, speech, action, and personal habits.

9. He must respect women, parents, and his nation’s laws.

10. The cowboy is a patriot.

GENE AUTRY’S COWBOY CODE OF HONOR

ROY ROGERS

Roy Rogers, nicknamed the King of the Cowboys, was an American singer, actor, and rodeo performer.

Riding his Palomino stallion Trigger, Roy appeared in more than 100 motion pictures, as well as his self-titled radio and television programs. In most of them, Roy entertained with his wife, Dale Evans, riding her buckskin horse Buttermilk.

There were Roy Rogers action figures, cowboy adventure novels, playsets, comic book series, and a variety of marketing successes. Roy Rogers was second only to Walt Disney in the number of items featuring his name.

The highlight of childhood memories was seeing Roy Rogers in person when he had his family show at the Mid-America Fair in Topeka.

Of course, Roy rode and did tricks with Trigger, shot plates thrown into the air, and sang cowboy songs with his wife and some of their children.

HOPALONG CASSIDY

Hopalong Cassidy was a fictional cowboy hero created in 1904 for a Western novel. Cassidy was shot in the leg which caused him

Glenn Randall, who trained most cowboy movie horses, was in attendance with six matching Palomino horses that performed at liberty.

Years later, Roy Rogers was seen in person again at the American Royal in Kansas City. He borrowed a Palomino horse to ride around the arena for his introduction before entertaining with his songs including “Happy Trails.”

ROY ROGERS RIDERS CLUB RULES

1. Be neat and clean.

2. Be courteous and polite.

3. Always obey your parents.

4. Protect the weak and help them.

5. Be brave but never take chances.

6. Study hard and learn all you can.

7. Be kind to animals and care for them.

8. Eat all your food and never waste any.

9. Love God and go to Sunday school regularly.

10. Always respect our flag and country.

to have a little “hop,” hence the nickname.

Portraying “Hoppy,” William Boyd outfitted in black rode his white horse Topper in 66 movies from the 1930s to the 1950s.

Boyd continued in children-oriented radio and television shows until 1952. He made personal appearances including in Kansas attended by former coworkers.

At the peak of the character’s popularity in the early 1950s, enormous amounts of merchandise were developed, as well as a comic strip, additional novels, and a shortlived amusement park “Hoppyland.”

HOPALONG CASSIDY’S CREED FOR AMERICAN BOYS AND GIRLS

1. The highest badge of honor a person can wear is honesty. Be mindful at all times.

2. Your parents are the best friends you have. Listen to them and obey their instructions.

3. If you want to be respected, you must respect others. Show good manners in every way.

4. Only through hard work and study can you succeed. Don’t be lazy.

5. Your good deeds always come to light. So don’t boast or be a showoff.

6. If you waste time or money today, you will regret it tomorrow. Practice thrift in all ways.

7. Many animals are good and loyal companions. Be friendly and kind to them.

8. A strong, healthy body is a precious gift. Be neat and clean.

9. Our country’s laws are made for your protection. Observe them carefully.

10. Children in many foreign lands are less fortunate than you. Be glad and proud you are an American.

THE LONE RANGER

The Lone Ranger is a fictional masked former Texas Ranger who fought outlaws in the Old West with his Native American friend Tonto.

First appearing in a radio series in 1933, the Lone Ranger show proved to be a hit. It spawned a series of books, an equally popular television show that ran from 1949 to 1956, comic books, and several films.

Clayton Moore portrayed the Lone Ranger who rode his white horse named Silver. Jay Silverheels, a Mohawk, was cast in the role of Tonto riding his spotted horse named Scout.

“Return now to those thrilling days of yesteryear. From out of the West with the speed of light and a hearty Hi-Yo, Silver.”

THE LONE RANGER CREED

1. I believe that to have a friend, a man must be one.

2. That all men are created equal and that everyone has within himself the power to make this a better world.

3. That God put the firewood there, but that every man must gather and light it himself.

4. In being prepared physically, mentally, and morally to fight when necessary for that which is right.

5. That a man should make the most of what equipment he has.

6. That “this government, of the people, by the people, and for the people” shall live always.

7. That men should live by the rule of what is best for the greatest number.

8. That sooner or later … somewhere … somehow … we must settle with the world and make payment for what we have taken.

9. That all things change, but the truth, and the truth alone, lives on forever.

10. I believe in my Creator, my country, my fellow man.

We can all stand to be a little more cowboy. And that is a good thing.

WELCOME FERGUS TO THE BETTER HORSES FAMILY

QUICK TIPS TO HELP YOUR HORSE BEAT THE SUMMER HEAT

BY BETTER HORSES STAFF

Heat and humidity place an added burden on horses during training, showing and transporting. Especially during the busy summer travel and show season, it’s important to make sure your horse is not becoming overheated, stays sufficiently hydrated and remains comfortable, even when temperatures soar.

“Horses are better equipped to work in cold weather than in the heat,” said Katie Young, Ph.D., equine nutritionist and manager equine technical services, Purina Animal Nutrition. “They build up a tremendous amount of body heat as a result of fiber digestion and muscle exertion, plus insulation from their haircoats and body fat, and hot, humid weather can make heat dissipation extremely difficult.”

Dr. Young and Dr. Karen Davison, equine nutritionist and sales support manager, share these tips for horse owners to help ensure a healthy summer season.

HEAD OFF HEAT STRESS

A horse’s main cooling mechanism is evaporation of sweat from the skin surface. Increased humidity reduces this evaporation, decreasing the horse’s ability to cool down. Under extreme heat, especially with high humidity, the body’s cooling mechanisms may not work well enough to dissipate the heat generated. This can lead to heat stress, which is hard on the body and can impair performance.

A simple calculation can help you determine your horse’s risk level for heat stress. Take the ambient temperature (degrees Fahrenheit), add the relative humidity (%) and subtract the wind speed (mph). So, if the ambient temperature is 98° F with a 55% relative humidity and wind speed of 5 mph: 98 + 55 –5 = 148. Here’s what the answers mean.

130 or less: The horse’s own cooling mechanisms will work effectively.

140 to 170: The horse has partial cooling capacity and may need some assistance cooling down.

Higher than 180: The horse is at high risk for heat stress or even heat stroke.

DON’T HESITATE TO HYDRATE

Sweat generated during work robs the body of large amounts of fluids and important nutrients that must be replenished. So it’s very important to provide adequate clean water to help horses stay hydrated. In some situations, such as travel, it can be hard to persuade your horse to drink enough water. Compressed hay blocks soaked in water can be very helpful in these situations. A 2-lb. Purina® Hydration Hay® Horse Hay Block will absorb 10 lbs. or approximately 5 quarts of water, providing

your horse both water and hay. Often, a horse will eat a hay block with water even when he turns up his nose at a bucket of water.

AMP UP ELECTROLYTES

Electrolytes are electrically charged mineral salts that play a major role in water balance, and are integral to nerve and muscle function. An electrolyte imbalance can lead to heart problems, digestive dysfunction, muscle cramps and nervousness. The primary electrolytes lost in a horse’s sweat are sodium, potassium and chloride.

Horses working at light to moderate levels will receive adequate electrolytes from a nutritionally balanced feed, good quality hay, and a salt block or a couple of ounces of loose salt each day. Even if these horses are sweating a bit, a good diet (including free choice or top-dressed salt) along with plenty of clean water is usually adequate to replenish the electrolytes lost in sweat. However, if your horse works very hard in hot, humid climates and sweats a great deal, he will most likely need additional electrolyte supplementation.

EVALUATE THE ENVIRONMENT

Pay attention to environmental conditions and try to avoid working your horse when the risk of heat stress is high. Be sure to provide adequate water for hydration and electrolytes to replenish sweat loss. Try to work in the shade, switch on some fans and use cold water to wash down your hot horse.

Summer is great time to enjoy and bond with your horse! Just remember to help him beat the heat through these late summer months by giving him the care and attention he deserves.

Horse health is important to take into consideration while working them in the summer months.

DRESSAGE RIDER BORROWS HORSE FOR SEVENTH OLYMPICS COMPETITION

BY FRANK BUCHMAN

British dressage great Carl Hester is set to ride in his seventh, and possibly last, Olympics with a seventh different horse and a film of his life story waiting to be made once the Paris Games are out of the way.

Winner of team gold (2012), silver (2016), and bronze (2020) in an Olympic run that started in Barcelona in 1992, the 57-year-old will partner Fame, a 14-year-old stallion lent by 2016 silver medalist Fiona Bigwood.

If all goes well, Hester could go out at the top.

“He’s certainly one of the best horses that I’ve had in my career,” Hester said.

“He has a lot of quality, a lot of personality. He is a horse I can describe as loving his job.

“I know that sounds a bit cliche but literally every day that I have ridden that horse he comes out with a work ethic of 100 percent every single time, and he’s just an absolute pleasure to ride.

“If it is my last Olympics Games, I couldn’t be happier to finish it on a horse like that. I don’t think, well, I say this every time, probably wouldn’t find another one like that. He is very special.”

Whether or not the oldest member of the British team in Paris calls time on his Olympic career, after equaling show jumping compatriot Nick Skelton’s British record seven Games, remains to be seen.

He will be in his 60s by the time Los Angeles 2028 comes around but still younger than Australian eventer Andrew Hoy was when he took silver in 2021 at the age of 62 and way off Canadian show jumper Ian Millar’s 10 Games ending in 2012.

“I would like this to be my last Olympic Games if it goes well but of course you can’t say that,” said Hester, who won his gold with Uthopia, silver with Nip Tuck, and bronze with En Vogue.

In 1992, he competed with Giorgione, in 2000 on Argentille Gullit, and in 2004 on Exquis Escapado.

“I try to say nothing because I just think what happens if something goes wrong between now and then? I wouldn’t want my career to end like that.”

“I know that Fame will go back to Fiona after the Games anyway so although he might have another Olympics in him it won’t be with me.

“So again, it’s that question of ‘will I find another one like that?’ I’ll just wait and get Paris out of the way and see how I feel.”

Whatever happens in France, Hester’s story is written.

A script has been finished for a biopic charting his journey from a humble start on Sark, a tiny Channel Island with donkeys but no cars, to a gold medal and mixing with the social elite as one of the world’s top dressage riders and trainers.

Producer Andrew Curtis said that Hester’s story was akin to ‘Billy Elliot’, the 2000 movie about a working-class boy growing up in a gritty mining community with a yearning for ballet.

Hester joked he would be happy, at this stage in his life, to be portrayed by George Clooney.

Waving to the crowd, Carl Hester and partner Fame finish their run during the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo, Japan.

CHAMPIONS NAMED AT SANTA FE TRAIL RANCH RODEO

BY FRANK BUCHMAN

Cowboys from throughout the Midwest came to Council Grove for the Santa Fe Trail Ranch Rodeo sponsored by the Morris County Youth Rodeo Association.

In the Working Ranch Cowboys Association (WRCA) competitions with 15 teams Friday and Saturday evenings, the Rocking P Cattle/ S&P Cattle team from Latham was declared champion for the combined scores from both performances.

Hat Creek Cattle Company, Mount Vernon, won the WRCA Youth Ranch Rodeo with the top total points out of eight teams.

Both top teams are now qualified to compete in their respective divisions at the 29th annual World Championship Ranch Rodeo in Amarillo, Texas, November 14-17.

Members of the Rocking P/S&P team are Chris Potter, Colton Potter, Carlee Potter, Justin Peterson, Jake Peterson, and Dillon Sherrick.

The Hat Creek Cattle youth team is composed of Blaine Roberts, Kasen Brewer, Luke Campbell, Jared Campbell, and Branch Horn.

There was a tie for second place in the twoperformance open rodeo between Lonesome Pine Ranch, Cedar Point, and Buford Ranches Rock Creek Division, Adair, Oklahoma. The teams split the winning payback.

Riding for Lonesome Pine Ranch were Bud Higgs, Troy Higgs, MaKenzie Higgs, Frank Higgs, Bob Krueger, and Brett Cloud.

Buford Ranches team members include Ty Davenport, Slade Davenport, Lucas Langenderfer, Ty Scott, Ethan Hill, and Gabe Wiedel.

Fourth place team was Beachner Brothers Livestock/Mill Creek Ranch, Erie and Fort Scott, with members including Calvin Kendall, Cody Kendall, Caden Kendall, Coy Hyer, Logan Delinte, and Gary Herrin.

Riding for the open Hat Creek Cattle Company team, Blaine Roberts was named recipient of the Top Hand Award.

Sooner Cattle, Pawhuska, Oklahoma, was second in the youth ranch rodeo with team including Ian Dyck, Dax Godsey, Brodie Godsey, Tagen Carney, and Tripp Carney. Since the first place junior team Hat Creek Cattle had already qualified for the national finals rodeo, Sooner Cattle became eligible to compete.

Third place junior team was California Creek Ranch, Delaware, Oklahoma, with team members Owen Dean, Brody Grisgby, Nathan Dean, Casden May, and Briar Horn.

The 3:16 Ranch team composed of Corbin Bailey, Dylan Chrisman, Wyatt Walker, Jaden Bartosch, and Clancey Jones placed fourth in the junior ranch rodeo.

Riding for the open Hat Creek Cattle Company team, Mount Vernon, Blaine Roberts was named recipient of the Top Hand Award at the Santa Fe Trail Ranch Rodeo at Council Grove. Photo Amy Allen

Hat Creek Cattle Company, Mount Vernon, won the Santa Fe Trail Working Ranch Cowboys Association Youth Ranch Rodeo at Council Grove. Photo Amy Allen

Representing the Rocking P Cattle/S&P Cattle championship team from Latham at the Working Ranch Cowboys Association Santa Fe Trail Ranch Rodeo in Council Grove were Justin Peterson, Jake Peterson, Chris Potter, Colton Potter with the new Morris County Youth Rodeo Association Queen Rylee Williams. Photo Amy Allen

PERFORMANCE HORSE JOINT HEALTH

Review of Regenerative Therapies

BY HAILEIGH K. AVELLAR, DVM, MS, DACVS-LA

Spring has come and gone, and we are now in the thick of summer and show season. Many horse owners may be noticing their horse becoming resistant to work, changes in stride, or sudden instances of lameness. These scenarios can be frustrating to encounter during the busiest time of the year. As a veterinarian it is my job to evaluate and get my patients safely back on the show circuit.

There are many factors to consider when evaluating any horse for a lameness or performance-limiting issue. The majority of horses will develop some level of osteoarthritis (OA) or soft tissue injury in their lifetime. It is well documented that many factors can contribute to the development of OA such as conformation and/or genetics. Management of joint health may consist of professional farriery, nutrition, exercise, and a variety of medications.

When deciding on treatment of joint disease it is essential to have proper diagnosis of location and type of injury. Without knowledge of the exact source for the origin of pain, the chosen treatment may not be advantageous to the patient, could have a negative economic impact on the horse owner, and potentially prolong their return to work. A thorough lameness examination should be performed, and a variety of diagnostics may be needed including, nerve or joint blocks, radiographs, ultrasound, and/or MRI. Following diagnosis several treatment options may be presented to the owner.

Historically, joint disease in horses has been treated with routine joint injections with a multitude of steroids and joint protective therapies. Soft tissue injuries are typically managed with long-term rest and rehabilitation. While steroids have an impressive anti-inflammatory effect, which in turn modulates the pain response, their long-term use can have negative effects on

articular cartilage. As a veterinary surgeon I have learned an individualized plan for each patient is necessary, one size does not fit all. Steroids should still be considered in many treatment plans knowing a single injection may be sufficient for one horse while another may benefit from more frequent injections due to the progressive nature of OA. Long- term rest may still be necessary for some injuries, but adjunct therapies should be considered to aid in healing.

As veterinary medicine evolves so have our joint health medications. Over the last decade significant advances have been made in the field of regenerative therapy or orthobiologics. The goal of these therapies is to not only treat pain but to potentially replace or regenerate cells and tissue to treat disease. While research continues to expand our knowledge on these products many veterinarians are implementing some or all into practice with the goal of prolonging the career of our equine athletes. In my experience most of these orthobiologics are most effective in acute injuries and mild/ moderate osteoarthritis cases, they may not be the most effective treatment for severe and/ or end stage disease. Below is a review of some of the most common regenerative therapies available for the equine patient. Note, this is not an all-inclusive list, several other products are available. Many veterinary clinics will offer some, but not all of the products listed below. Please consult with your veterinarian prior to use because every equine patient should have an individualized treatment plan.

PLATELET RICH PLASMA (PRP)

PRP is a blood-derived product that has been used for the longest period of time in both human and veterinary medicine. In human medicine, PRP has been extensively used in oral and maxillofacial surgery. There is also tremendous use in augmenting healing of bone,

tendons, and wounds. The name truly describes what the product is — blood is processed and serum containing high concentrations of platelets is separated and used for treatment. Platelets contain a variety of growth factors and other proteins which are normally released in the early phases of wound healing. The idea behind using PRP is to deliver a higher concentration of these growth factors directly to the injury to stimulate tissue healing. Historically PRP has mostly been used in soft tissue injuries (tendons and ligaments) but more recent uses in osteoarthritis have shown its ability to modulate pain response and have anti-inflammatory effects. The amount of healing stimulation is multi-factorial and can depend on the level of proteins as well as individual variability. The process of making PRP is quick — a small volume of blood is pulled from the patient and total processing time is about 20-30 minutes making it a great option for same day treatment. There are several commercially available PRP kits on the market for veterinary use.

INTERLEUKIN-1 RECEPTOR

ANTAGONIST PROTEIN (IRAP) OR AUTOLOGOUS CONDITIONED SERUM (ACS)

Interleukin- 1 (IL-1) is a pro-inflammatory protein or cytokine. It is one cause of breakdown of articular cartilage in osteoarthritis. When osteoarthritis begins, receptors in the joint for IL-1 increase leading to cellular activation and further destruction of the joint. Researchers wanted to find a product to block these receptors and slow the inflammatory side effects of IL-1. ACS or IRAP is produced using the patient’s own blood to produce proteins that act as an antagonist (ra). The method of IRAP production uses medical grade chromium sulfate beads to produce IL-1ra as well as several other anti-

inflammatory proteins that are important with the modulation of osteoarthritis. Processing of IRAP requires at least 24 hours making it more difficult to be used as an outpatient basis. Several doses are usually made with a single kit which can be stored under frozen and sterile conditions for future use. To the authors knowledge there are two commercially available IRAP kits for veterinary use.

AUTOLOGOUS PROTEIN SOLUTION (APS)

APS is another blood derived regenerative product that is commercially available in both human (nSTRIDE) and veterinary (Pro-Stride) medicine. This product has been marketed mostly for its use in osteoarthritis due to its ability to produce high levels of IL-1ra and platelet derived growth factors. Some think of this product as a mixture of PRP and IRAP. The production requires approximately 2030 minutes and two steps making it another option for same day treatment. Studies evaluating the full composition of this product are needed to know its true effects. The author has not personally used this product, but through personal communication with colleagues there is positive feedback on its use in horses with osteoarthritis.

ALPHA-2 MACROGLOBULIN (A2M)

A2M is once again another blood derived product used in both human and more recently veterinary medicine. This protein is normally produced in the liver and has known anti-inflammatory and protective effects of

articular cartilage. A2M is thought to slow the progression of arthritis by inactivating or neutralizing certain mediators that cause breakdown of joints and may have a restorative effect on joints. In human medicine it is recommended this product be used early in the course of joint disease to have the best result, although research in the equine species in ongoing, the same can probably be said for horses as well. Processing of A2M with a commercially available kit can be done the same day in approximately 30 minutes.

MESENCHYMAL STROMAL/STEM CELLS (MSC)

The use of MSCs in human and veterinary medicine is a controversial topic and highly regulated by the FDA. In veterinary medicine MSCs are derived from a variety of sources including most commonly bone marrow, adipose or fat tissue, and blood. The science and research behind MSCs is extensive and beyond the scope of this article. For a brief overview, MSCs are cultured in a lab setting over several weeks. Based on the culture settings and the environment in which they are used these cells have the ability to become almost any other kind of cell in the body as they mature. By placing MSCs in the area of injury it is thought that the environment will send cellular signals to the MSCs which will trigger them to mature into the appropriate cell type for healing. The scientific potential of MSCs in human and veterinary medicine is exciting and changing daily. In the authors experience MSCs have shown significant

benefit in healing of soft tissue injuries such as tears in the superficial and deep digital flexor tendons (SDFT, DDFT) and meniscus of the stifle. It is important to note that overall healing time is not decreased with the use of MSCs, but quality of healing tends to be better which has been shown in several research studies as well. Due to the nature of how MSCs are processed there are currently no FDA approved commercially available or “off the shelf” products in the United States. Bone marrow or adipose tissue would need to be collected by a veterinarian and sent to a specialized laboratory for processing and culture.

In summary, it is an exciting time of year for performance and horse use. Keeping horses healthy and sound is the goal of horse owners and equine veterinarians. It is a prolific time for veterinary research on the topic of sport horse medicine. There are numerous products on the market aimed at helping to keep horses sound. When performance related injury occurs, it is important to work with your veterinarian to establish an accurate diagnosis. Based on the source and type of injury, it is possible that a regenerative therapy might be indicated to help your horse heal from their disorder. This highlevel summary of current equine therapeutics for the equine athlete intended to help increase the awareness and understanding of some of the products that are currently on the market for management of performance horses. For questions or more information, we encourage you to visit with your local veterinarian or contact the Veterinary Health Center at 785-532-5700.

Haileigh Avellar, Ph.D. pulls blood for PRP regenerative therapy.

Dylan Lutter, Ph.D. conducts a lameness exam on an equine patient.

WHAT CAN CBD DO FOR YOUR HORSE?

BY BETTER HORSES STAFF

Cannabidiol products for horses are increasingly popular, but are their purported benefits for real? Here’s what you need to know when determining whether CBD might be right for your horse.

Cannabidiol, otherwise known as “CBD,” is the latest alternative health trend to go mainstream. CBD products are gaining popularity as alternative or complementary treatments for a variety of conditions in people and animals, including epilepsy, anxiety and osteoarthritis.

Yet many questions about CBD use in horses remain. How does it affect a horse’s physiology? What’s the best mode of administration? Can you trust claims that CBD can soothe your horse’s stress and even relieve his pain?

Researchers are still working to understand CBD and investigate its potential benefits and risks. But that doesn’t mean you have to wait to explore whether it can keep your horse calm or comfortable.

To help you determine whether a CBDbased product might be right for your horse, we’ve enlisted the help of holistic veterinarian Joyce Harman, DVM, a leading authority on equine acupuncture and alternative medicine.

THE CANNABIS CONNECTION

CBD is derived from cannabis plants, a genus cultivated around the world for thousands of years. Archeological evidence suggests that cannabis plants, which originated in Asia, were used by humans as early as 2800 BCE.

There are two main species of cannabis, and many strains within those related species. Hemp-type cannabis includes varieties traditionally cultivated for their fiber (rope, twine, etc.); seeds (for food); and oils. Other types of cannabis, classified as marijuana

strains, have been used for centuries for ritual, medicinal and recreational purposes.

The active ingredients in all these plants are chemicals called phytocannabinoids. The marijuana strains of cannabis plants are cultivated to produce high levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a psychoactive (mind-altering) phytocannabinoid. By comparison, the Hemp strains, which contain cannabidiol (CBD), are not considered psychoactive. Studies in people and animals suggest that cannabidiol can relieve anxiety, reduce inflammation and provide pain relief. It is also prescribed to treat some types of epilepsy.

CBD VS. THC

“The difference between hemp and a marijuana plant is the amount of THC,” explains Harman. “The plants we want for our animals are hemp plants. They have been selected and cultivated for high CBD and little to no THC.”

Why are CBD products just now flooding the U.S. consumer markets? It all started when the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 removed industrial hemp from the definition of marijuana in the Controlled Substances Act (CSA). Once hemp was legally separated from its psychoactive cousin, new uses of the plant became economically feasible. Nonetheless, regulations governing CBD are constantly changing, with different states taking different approaches to the sale of CBD products. That means that you’ll want to keep up to date on your state and local laws.

CALMING EFFECTS

One of the primary claims made about CBD centers on its calming effects. Instead of the psychoactive “high” conferred by the THC in marijuana, CBD is believed to soothe stress or anxiety.

“There is human research in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and stress showing that those problems improve with CBD,” Harman says. “Many horse owners and veterinarians have seen positive responses from animals that have been through stressful periods. It helps with mental equilibrium.”

CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which regulates many physiological functions, including appetite, mood, pain sensation and immune response. By binding to certain receptors in the endocannabinoid system, CBD can help modulate these functions. “CBD doesn’t make horses ‘stoned’ like THC would,” explains Harman. “The brain is still functioning normally. The horse is calm but if there is cause to be alert, the horse is still capable of being alert.”

Although these calming effects have yet to be proven in clinical studies, Harman sees horses as good candidates for trial therapy with CBD. After all, modern management practices can place horses under constant stress. Equine athletes are sometimes confined in small spaces, separated from their social groups and asked to do things that don’t come naturally to them. “Many horses are on edge all the time. When we get on them, they spook at everything,” Harman says. “CBD can help them to stay calm, to ‘forgive and forget.’”

INFLAMMATION AND PAIN

CBD also shows promise for treating chronic pain in horses. As Harman wrote in a 2020 article in Innovative Veterinary Care Journal, “Cannabinoids have action in both acute and chronic pain by modulating pain signals in the central and peripheral nervous systems and acting similarly to an antiinflammatory.” Cannabinoids can also act as antioxidants and support immune function, she says.

Therapy incorporating CBD may be beneficial for treating a variety of equine conditions, says Harman. These include laminitis; insulin resistance; musculoskeletal pain (such as arthritis); chronic skin disease; chronic ulcers; uveitis; and even Lyme disease. CBD is currently most often used to treat musculoskeletal pain—primarily arthritis and other lameness issues. Though rarely the only treatment a horse receives, CBD may offer pain relief without the potential side effects of longterm use of conventional anti-inflammatory drugs like phenylbutazone (bute).

Keep in mind that CBD’s effectiveness against chronic pain has yet to be scientifically proven. It also appears to vary greatly among individual horses. Still, many people, including Harman, advocate trying CBD, particularly in cases where traditional treatments have failed to alleviate persistent pain.

PELLET, POWDER OR OIL?

CBD products for horses come in three forms: pellets, powders and oils. “If you are selecting a powder rather than pellets, the powder should be 100 percent hemp, with nothing else added,” advises Harman, noting that like the pellets, powders are easily incorporated into a horse’s feed. Pellets often have added mold inhibitors or alfalfa to help make the pellet.

Then there are the oils. “[CBD] is extracted from the plant, then mixed with an oil base,” Harman says. “Any kind of safe, healthy oil is fine to dilute it in—usually hemp seed oil or MCT oil (from coconuts)—to get an amount you can measure in a dropper for feeding.”

Some people claim that rubbing the CBDinfused oil into a horse’s gums is the fastest way to get cannabidiol into his system. However, Harman says it is often more practical to add CBD to feed. What’s more, recent studies suggest it is better absorbed when administered with food. The oil can also be put straight into the mouth with a dropper.

“Some product [labels] say they are watersoluble. They get into the system better,”

Harman says, which might be useful just before a trail ride, for example. “It does go into the system faster, but this may not be critical with long-term use,” she notes.

Still, it’s wise to be cautious about giving your horse too much CBD. Research has shown that higher doses of CBD can change liver enzyme levels in people and animals, though these may not be a problem, according to some recent studies. There are no specific studies in horses but it is wise to be aware of this. Preliminary data coming from ongoing studies is showing that very high levels can be tolerated well in many species.

MINIMUM AND MAXIMUM AMOUNTS

Therefore, you’ll want to establish the smallest effective amount of CBD for your horse and stick with that. “I recommend starting at about 25 milligrams for about a week or 10 days. If you are not seeing improvement in the condition you are trying to help, then double the amount (50 milligrams) for awhile,” Harman says. “If that’s still not working, you can go higher until you find the level that works in that particular horse.” Some products recommend starting with higher amounts. It is best to follow manufacturer’s instructions as the quality or concentration can vary considerably.

CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which regulates many physiological functions, including appetite, mood, pain sensation and immune response.

HOW MUCH TO FEED

The amount of CBD needed to achieve the desired effect in horses varies. Each individual responds differently to the compound. Nonetheless, with CBD—as with any supplement or medication—it’s important follow the manufacturer’s directions.

Fortunately, says Harman, CBD has a relatively solid safety record in many species. It also seems to be well tolerated by horses in preliminary studies: “One thing we know about CBD is that the parts of the brain it works on will not be adversely affected by overdose.”

In contrast, says Harman, a large loading (initial) dose might be worthwhile when administering CBD to combat inflammation and discomfort related to arthritis. “You might start at 50 milligrams for a week and increase it if necessary—on up to 200, if need be, and stay there for a few weeks or a month,” she says. “If the horse becomes sound and is no longer in pain, you could back down until you find a comfortable level.”

If maximum doses of different CBD products don’t produce the desired results in your horse, it’s time to look for other alternatives. Regardless of the hype, Harman stresses that CBD isn’t a cure-all, and it won’t help every horse.

POTENTIAL DOWNSIDES

The potential benefits of CBD are clear. But there are also possible downsides.

BETTER HORSES

One concern comes from the fact that rules and regulations governing CBD products are often unclear and are still evolving. Although the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a CBD prescription medication for treatment of certain types of seizures, the agency has declined to issue rules for other CBD products.

“It is not apparent how CBD products could meet safety standards for dietary supplements or food additives,” said FDA Principal Deputy Commissioner Dr. Janet Woodcock in a statement explaining the decision. The same statement goes on: “The use of CBD raises various safety concerns, especially with longterm use. Studies have shown the potential for harm to the liver, interactions with certain medications and possible harm to the male reproductive system. CBD exposure is also concerning when it comes to certain vulnerable populations such as children and those who are pregnant.” The FDA is calling on Congress to establish a regulatory structure to ensure the safety and efficacy of CBD products.

REGULATORY GAPS

Until those regulatory gaps are bridged, Harman advises sticking with CBD products offered by well-established companies that are transparent about their ingredients and production standards. When you see inexpensive CBD products, she says, consider that “there is often a reason they are so inexpensive.”

Keep in mind that most horse-sport organizations prohibit anything that might alter or enhance performance, including CBD. That means horses may be tested for CBD along with other banned substances.

To stay in compliance with competition rules, Harman suggests administering CBD between events. “We don’t know yet what a safe withholding time would be for all horses,” she says. “So that no one gets into trouble using CBD in horses, we recommend withdrawing the horse from CBD for seven days prior to competition.”

Horses that compete less often, as well as those in rehab or on a break from competition, may benefit from CBD administered during “down” periods. Then, “if your horse is functioning in a calmer way, you may have improved the condition of his endocannabinoid system,” Harman says.

SHOPPING TIPS

As with any supplement, it’s best to purchase CBD supplements only from wellregarded companies. “Reputable companies use organically grown hemp for their CBD products, but certification of organic status has only recently been granted to the hemp industry,” Harman points out. “Some products are grown responsibly, using organic methods, but are not certified as organic yet because the process is expensive and can take several years for a farm to obtain.”

CERTIFICATE OF ANALYSIS

A reputable company selling CBD products will also publish a COA (certificate of analysis) for each product on its website, verifying that it has paid to have these products tested. The COA lists everything in the product: the cannabinoids, any terpenes (other beneficial plant compounds), any solvent contamination, heavy metals, other chemical residues and microbiology—as well as any molds or bacteria.

It’s smart to consider how a product was processed, as well. “CBD can be safely extracted using carbon dioxide (CO2) or high-quality, organic ethanol,” Harman explains. “The cheap way is to use some nasty chemicals like benzene. Your local gas station or convenience store might sell CBD, but you may be getting other chemicals along with it.” The COA will tell you whether there are residues left over from processing and whether the plants were grown in soils free of heavy metals or other contaminants. “It will also tell you the strength (actual amount) of CBD in the product,” Harman says.

THC CONTENT

In addition, you’ll want to verify that the product contains little to no THC, which can occasionally be present in trace amounts. The legal amount of THC to be in a CBD product is 0.3% and that amount will have no psychoactive effect. While Harman says that THC might be helpful in horses with cancer, dogs are highly sensitive to it, and “we don’t know enough about THC to recommend its use in otherwise healthy horses.”

The chemical makeup as seen below is incredibly close to THC, the psychoactive chemical produced from marijuana.

EIGHT-TIME WORLD CHAMPION COWBOY READY FOR COMEBACK

BY FRANK BUCHMAN

Eight-time world champion Stetson

Wright entered last year’s Wrangler National Finals Rodeo with a six-figure lead in the all-around world standings but set his sights on capturing a triple crown.

Wright burst onto the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) rodeo scene in 2019 becoming the first rookie to win an allaround world championship.

Since then, he’s won five straight allaround titles (2019-23), two bull-riding championships (2020 and 2022) and a saddle bronc title (2021).

From Beaver, Utah, the 24-year-old cowboy’s run of dominance garnered him the nickname “Superman.”

But in the second round of last year’s Finals, Wright bowed out of the competition with a hamstring injury. Three days later, he underwent surgery, and for the last six months, he’s been rehabbing to get back in rodeo shape.

“I got the nickname Superman, and everybody knows that you’re not invincible. But after five years of running away with everything, I’m not going to lie, I started to believe I might have a little bit of Superman in me,” Wright said.

“That was a tough pill to swallow. I’m just like everybody else, and I can get hurt.”

After his surgery, doctors ordered Wright to stay in bed for six weeks before moving him to crutches for 12 weeks.

Then he started to rehab and train to begin gearing up for his return to rodeo.

“Now I’m at the point of breaking scar tissue, getting my full range of motion back and getting back in the saddle,” Wright said. “I’ve been on a bull and a horse. Everything is looking up at this point, and we’re set to return soon.

“On paper, everything is looking good, and hopefully, well not hopefully, we will be back in Las Vegas next December.”

Wright said missing his shot at a triplecrown stung but that there was too much to be grateful for to dwell on disappointment.

“Yeah, I had my days where I was like, ‘Why would this happen to me?’,” he recalled. “But it was all pretty short-lived. As soon as I went into surgery and came out, all I could think about was a triple crown in 2024.”

Until this past season, Wright remained relatively healthy in his rodeo career.

His run of success and perceived invincibility translated into confidence in the arena but let him down this past December.

“It’s good to have the mindset that you can’t because it does make you pretty tough to beat when you have the upper hand,” he said. “That was a tough pill to swallow when I realized

that the triple crown wasn’t in the cards that year. I just watched everything slip away round by round after that.”

Between bull riding and saddle bronc riding, Wright got used to hopping on multiple stock per day, but the hamstring injury hampered him in Las Vegas.

“You guys have seen it, I can get on four, five or six in a day and be fine,” Wright said. “When I got off that bull I was fatigued. I had lost all of my rodeo muscles.”

The months of sitting around and rehab are now in Wright’s rear-view mirror. He said as of right now he’s eyeing July to climb back on at PRCA rodeos.

“There are many things you can change, but the great part of life is that you never know what tomorrow brings,” Wright said. “I’m just having fun, and we’re about back to me being able to do what I love, and I’m pretty excited about it.”

Stetson Wright hangs tight during the saddle bronc competition at the National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas, Nevada.

THE 411 ON EQUINE 911

BY KELSEY DAVIS, DVM

When you own a horse, it is not if, but when, an emergency will occur. So how do you do your best to minimize the risk? And what can you do to be prepared for an emergency when it does arise?

My biggest recommendation is to have an established veterinarian. Having an established veterinarian who provides preventative wellness care also means having an established relationship with the person you need to show up for an emergency. Routine wellness care on a horse helps problems be caught early. In a wellness visit, your vet may notice a problem tooth, may recommend bloodwork or additional testing, or may help you lay out the best nutritional care for your horse. In addition, they can provide routine dental care to prevent further problems from developing that can lead to choke or colic episodes. Fecal egg counts can be performed to establish a deworming plan for your individual horse. Your horse’s nutritional

needs change throughout life and when there is a change in exercise or performance. Your vet can help layout a nutrition plan catered to your horse’s needs. In addition, if your vet comes to your farm, he or she may catch additional environmental hazards. There may be toxic plants that need removed, housing or fencing recommendations that can be made, or hay recommendations that can be made.

Even with the best care provided, an emergency can still occur. It is important to be prepared ahead of time to help an emergency be handled in an efficient manner. Having a first aid kit on hand (reviewed by your vet) can be very helpful. You may include a thermometer, flashlight, bandaging materials, and medications provided by your veterinarian. Make sure to have access to a trailer (your own, a friend lined up, commercial hauler, etc). If you have your own trailer, make sure that it is not blocked in or inaccessible. Even if your vet is

able to come to your farm, there may be a point in which your horse needs further care than can be provided on farm. In those instances, your vet may need you to haul into a clinic or university setting. If you are in a boarding facility, keep pertinent information on the stall front. Information may include your horse’s current feed regimen, any medications he/she is on, and veterinarian contact information.

Emergencies can also take a toll financially. Have a plan ahead of time as decisions may need to be made in a hurry. Some people choose to have a set amount they are willing to pay. Others may have insurance on their horse or an emergency savings account for their pets. Whatever you choose to do, just make sure you have a plan in place.

You vet may have additional recommendations for your horse. Stay connected with your vet and have a plan in place should an emergency arise.

TAME GRASS FOR FEED

BY FRANK BUCHMAN

“The brome is smoking which means it’s time for harvest.”

There’s a foggy haze moving across an increasing number of brome grass fields throughout Kansas.

That’s nature’s alert that the tame grass has headed, is ripe, and should be harvested, the sooner the better.

Time will tell, but it looks like this year’s brome crop will have an abundant yield.

Contrasting native Flint Hills pastures, brome grass requires considerably more management with weather always being a major factor in production.

According to college agronomist definition, “Brome grass is a common forage grass grown in North America. It may be used for hay, pasture, silage, or stockpiling. It is compatible with alfalfa or other adapted legumes.

“Brome grass is very palatable, high in protein, and relatively low in crude-fiber

content. It has a massive root system and is a sod former which can be used effectively for critical area planting and waterways.”

Not always the best student in crop science, knowledge about brome grass has generally come by learning from doing.

Nitrogen fertilizer is essential for brome grass production. Experience proves there is always poor yield without fertilizer. Soil testing increases fertilizer effectiveness when recommendations are followed.

Date of fertilizer application affects production with some producers preferring fall treatment. However, more farmers fertilize brome in the spring delaying expenses as long as possible.

There’s really no way to know what’s best, but spring applications must be in time for maximum effectiveness.

Opinions are varied on what type of fertilizer is used whether liquid or granular.

Sometimes one works better and other times the other is best.

Even the finest land operators cannot control the weather, but it is a very big factor in brome production. Seems like a cooler wetter early spring increases yields yet that doesn’t always prove true.

Abundant moisture is essential when brome is maturing developing leaves and shooting for a head with plentiful seeds.

While brome makes excellent pasture, it is often baled for hay and sometimes made into silage. Certain farmers harvest seed for their own plantings and for sale to others.

This ranch always needs hay, so the crop is baled into small square bales and large round bales.

Reminded of Psalms 104:14: “He makes grass grow for livestock, and for people to cultivate, bringing forth food from the earth.”

IT’S NEVER TOO EARLY TO START PLANNING TO SELL YOUR FARM

BY MAGGIE STONECIPHER

It may be a year or 10 years from now but planning what and how you will move should always be in the back of your mind. I have had the honor to help dozens with the daunting task of making that move when the time comes. It is never easy, and unbelievably stressful. Here are some tips that can make it a little less daunting. Having a plan for when you decide to leave your farm is as important as having solid estate planning, a will, a medical directive, a retirement plan, etc.

Living on acreage takes work, and as we get older that work starts to get a bit harder. We do our best. We see what needs to be done but over time it starts to slip a bit. Maybe we have family and friends that can help or maybe we are able to hire help to keep up with the work. Or maybe we don’t have any help. Family moves away, friends are aging with us, or finances get tighter. And maybe we just don’t see that things are slipping. Years of living on our beloved farm that we don’t want to leave can lead to blinders and denial. We put off the inevitable decisions - if we move, where do we go and what do we do with the farm and all our possessions?

Regardless of whether you are 20, 30, 60 or 80, it is important to have a plan for when the time comes to make that move. I have seen the positive impacts this planning has in making this transition, and I have seen the very heartbreaking impacts when there has been no planning. I have managed both ends of the spectrum and everything in between. It is a gift to yourself and loved ones to have a plan. So let’s get started!

How can you be proactive and do some planning? It begins with on a regular basis taking stock of what you own. You might do your closet each January; your garage each May; your barn each September; your kitchen each November. Break it up into smaller, manageable chunks so that it is not

overwhelming. Make a schedule to go through items and separate into four categories:

Items to Keep – If you use it then keep it. Very simple. A friend gave me a tip years ago for my closet. In January hang all your hangers in one direction. When you wear something, hang it back up in the other direction. Then the next January you can quickly see what you have and haven’t worn in the past year. Items you haven’t worn in the past year might be good to move to another category.

Items to Sell – If you haven’t used it in the past year, it might make sense to sell it. Rather than having it sit around and potentially losing value, generate some money! Hold an annual garage/farm sale and make it an event!

Items to Donate – Some items are better to donate. Maybe you have a dozen ties and you don’t wear them. But they don’t have great value and more effort to sell than they are worth. Donate them where they might be used and take the potential tax deduction.

Items to Trash – We all hate to throw away anything of value. But if it has sat around for 3, 5, 10 years and you have not used it, there probably is not much value. If you hold an annual garage/farm sale, have a FREE pile to re-home some items before you put them in the trash. Everyone loves free!

You can also do some planning for items that you want to go to family and friends. My mom assigned each of my siblings and I a color and gave us sticky dots for us to put on the back of things we wanted passed on to us. Made it very easy for her to know what we wanted, what items more than one of us wanted and what items we did not want. Then she planned accordingly. Overall, the system was very effective and helped as she downsized through the years.

So take a look around and ask yourself what you are going to do with items when you move. Take steps now to minimize the stress of moving by having a plan!