Horse Around New Mexico Magazine, April/May 2016

NEW MEXICO HORSES

RIDES

TRAINING

PEOPLE

PLACES

New Mexico April/May 2016

THEY’RE IN IT FOR

THE LONG HAUL HOW TO KEEP YOUR HORSE SAFE AND HEALTHY ON LONG TRIPS

HORSE VACATION IDEAS New Mexico’s Guest Ranches,

&

FIND THE PERFECT HORSE SITTER PACK RIGHT FOR YOUR DREAM VACATION BE A HORSE LISTENER LEARN THE FUNCTION & FORM OF WESTERN BITS

Wilderness Outfitters, Horse Motels www.horsearoundnm.com | April/May 2016 | HORSE AROUND

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FREE! EXPANDED ISSUE / PACKED WITH VACATION & TRAVEL INFO / KEEP ALL YEAR

Classical Spanish Horsemanship with David Guerro Garcia 3-day clinic with the professional Spanish dressage rider and lifelong horseman and trainer from Mor贸n de la Frontera, Spain.

April 29, 30, and May 1

Learn the elements of doma classica (classic dressage), alta escuela, and doma vaquera dressage. Riders will improve their seat, balance, and harmony with their horse to bring their horse into a more natural, beautiful collection. Also taught will be elements of doma vaquera, the traditional working stock horse discipline from Spain.

Open to all levels and all disciplines Location: Morningstar Farm Arroyo Seco, NM Fees: Rider $425 Auditor: $50 all 3 days or $25 per day

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For information, call: 575-737-9798 Sponsored by Taos Tack & Pet Supply HORSE AROUND | April/May 2016 | www.horsearoundnm.com

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FEATURES

11 Finding the Perfect Horse Sitter Put your horse in good hands this vacation

14 Ride Enchanted

Horse vacation ideas, from glam camping to roughing it

20 Safe & Healthy for the Long Haul Expert advice for long distance horse trailering

24 Before You Hit the Road Don’t forget to pack these items

25 The True Horse Whisperer

Horse people reveal life lessons gifted to them from horses

28 Bits, Demystified

Become a better horseman by understanding bits

Horse Around New Mexico is printed six times per year: Feb./Mar., Apr./May, June/July, Aug./Sept., Oct./Nov., & Dec./Jan. Submissions of articles from all around NM are welcome! See our website or email for submission standards/ deadlines: www.horsearoundnm.com, HorseNewMexico@gmail.com

PLUS

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7 NM Horse News

19 Horse Vacation/Travel Directory 32 Events 34 Trainer Directory 36 Clubs & Associations 38 Horse Services Directory

Horse Around New MexicoŠ2015. All rights reserved. Horse Around New Mexico and Horsearoundnm.com are copyrighted, trademarked, and the sole property of Cecilia Kayano. Individual content copyright belongs to the author. All the opinions expressed herein are the sole opinions of the writer and do not necessarily reflect bias or belief on the part of the editor, publisher, distributors, printer, advertisers, or other contributors.

In February, I went to Arizona on a horse vacation to escape the snow of my home in Pecos. I camped at Catalina State Park next to the foot of the Catalina Mountains north of Tucson. It seemed easy to get my two horses and gear packed up, and head down the road. I knew the routine.

But horse camping has not always been push button. I started horse camping in Washington State, sleeping in a tent alongside my horses which were highlined. To put up my highline took about an hour, and involved complex ratchet strapping, an aluminum ladder, and colorful exclamations.

One of my first horse camping experiences in New Mexico was at Caballo Lake State Park during an ACTHA (trail competition) event. I was tired of sleeping on the ground in my tent, so I decided to sleep in my 2-horse aluminum slant load. I thought I was being ingenious until I discovered another woman sleeping in her bumper pull. She gave me a tour and showed me her cot, a wall mirror, a throw rug, and a kitty litter box converted into a porta potty. These New Mexicans are resourceful!

I awoke the next morning to near-freezing temps, with no way of heating the tin can trailer. So several months later, I upgraded to a modest insulated gooseneck -- two water tanks, a sink, and a sofa bed. I bought a portable heater, and, like the woman at Caballo Lake, a porta potty – a Home Deport orange bucket with a toilet lid. Handy!

On my recent trip to Catalina, I felt like a seasoned horse camper. I knew how long to haul each day, where to stop overnight, and where to get good food.

Instead of driving 8-10 hours to Catalina, I stopped after six hours at Faywood Hot Springs, 23 miles north of Deming. I set up a highline for my two horses in less than ten minutes (no ratchets or ladder needed) then soaked in the crystal clear water overlooking the high desert.

When I arrived at Catalina, all the corrals were taken, but no worries!

Again, I quickly set up a highline, along with an “alert bell,” and slept soundly in the gooseneck.

Catalina State Park was wonderful -- lots of sandy single track and washes for training, and mountain trails with creek crossings. Friends whom I had met at Jack’s Creek Campground in the Pecos Wilderness were there.

We rode daily and toasted to good friends as we watched the Catalina Mountains turn pink with the sunset every evening.

After three weeks of horse camping, I headed back to New Mexico. When I spotted the Welcome to New Mexico sign, complete with red and green chiles, I broke into a huge grin. Instead of overnighting again at the hot springs, I drove further to Caballo Lake State Park. Since my previous stays there, they had built four huge pipe corrals with cover and water.

Before I left the park, I spoke to a ranger about creating a horse trail from the corrals to BLM land on the other side of the Rio Grande, and he said it might be possible. On the way home, I stopped at The Santa Fe Diner and Truck Stop (a remote, rustic, place, I-25 exit 115) and had a green chile cheeseburger (hand pressed patty, Hatch green chile, fresh cut fries.)

Learning to horse camp is an endless journey, and I still have a lot to learn. It started a decade ago sleeping in that tent, then in my bumper pull. Here I am, years later, camping in an insulated trailer, armed with a masters degree in highlining. I continue to venture out -- this winter to Catalina. Next winter, I might try Big Bend, Texas.

But experience has shown me, when I’m driving back and see the Welcome to New Mexico sign with the red and green chiles, I always smile big because I am home.

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Kayan a i l i c e C

Editor/Publisher CECILIA KAYANO Associate Editor PEGGY CONGER Media/Events Manager SUSIE SPICER Contributing Writers EVALYN BEMIS & Photographers STACIE BOSWELL THOMAS GARCIA SUE MURPHY ANNETTE WOOD Staff Writers & VIKKI CHAVEZ Photographers KAREN LEHMANN Graphic Design/Layout MARIE ANTHONY Advertising & Sales Events Listing

HORSENEWMEXICO@GMAIL.COM EVENTSHORSEAROUND@GMAIL.COM

Subscriptions $24/YR MAIL CHECK TO:

HANM * PO BOX 367* PECOS * NM 87552 OR PURCHASE ONLINE AT:

www.horsearoundnm.com Next Issue: TRAIL RIDING Well-written, informative, inspirational articles are welcome. Submissions will be considered and are subject to editing. The next issue, the trail riding issue, will appear at New Mexico outlets on June 1, 2016. If you have a high-resolution photo of trail riding, please email it for consideration for the trail riding issue cover: HorseNewMexico@gmail.com. The deadline for submissions is April 20, 2016. The deadline for ads is May 5, 2016. For information contact Cecilia Kayano, HANM Editor, 360-239-9337, Need more trail riding details, horsey events, and equine inspiration? Check out our expanded Facebook page. Make sure to like us!

ON THE COVER:

Jean LaCour, Melissa Deaver-Rivera, and Peggy Conger ride by hoodoo formations near Starry Night Guest Ranch, Llaves, New Mexico.

Photo by Cecilia Kayano.

Connecting Horses and Humans through the Arts of Liberty Training, Horsemanship and Dressage Offering Full Training – Liberty Classes – Clinics Horse & Rider Clinics: April 16-17, May 21-22 Liberty Class Series 1: Saturdays, April 30-May 14

Liberty and Dressage - What’s the Connection?

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26 Sundog Drive, Santa Fe, NM

2nd Annual New Mexico

Trainer Showcase & Horse Expo May 21 & 22, 2016 9 AM - 5 PM

4 Winds Equestrian Center 9031 Hwy. 337 Estancia, NM (29 miles south of Tijeras) Between mile markers 1 & 2

Learn from New Mexico’s Top Horse Trainers FOR JUST THE PRICE OF ADMISSION!

Must-see sessions for everyone from beginner riders to serious competitors. If you love horses, own and ride horses, or plan to one of these days, don’t miss the Trainer Showcase & Horse Expo at 4 Winds.

Great NM trainers showcase their specialties in our indoor arena. Find out: • • What You Need to Know Before You Take Another • Clinic • Don’t Neglect the Basics! How • foundation work makes for better riders and horses • Techniques to Soften Your • Horse for the Show Ring • Ride Relaxed: You, yoga and • your horse • “Lightness” Decoded for the • Everyday Rider • Introducing Confirmation • Balancing

Taking Aim at Cowboy Shooting Showing Strong: Keeping a veteran horse in shape How Loving Thunder Therapeutic Riding Empowers Lives One Ride at a Time Meet the Horse That Discovered the West Getting the Most out of a Guest Ranch Vacation Boosting Your Travel & Trailering Savvy Bring Your Questions! Trainer Q&As Saturday and Sunday

These events included with your ticket: • Albuquerque’s Amazing Mounted Police Unit!

More on how APD trains these fantastic horses -- Sat. during lunch hour • Seeing Spots: Why Appaloosas are a Breed Apart -- Sat. during lunch hour • Parade of Spanish Horses: A costume parade with Spanish Barbs, Pasos, and other Spanish horses -- Sun. during lunch hour • Trick Roping and Ranch Roping with Rudy Lara Jr. -- Sun. during lunch hour

PLUS: Vendors and food by Ranch House Grill and much more, all day, both days.

Admission: $5/day

(12 & Under Free)

For more information or to attend as an exhibitor call 505-384-1831. Hurry, exhibit space is limited!

Event Sponsors: • Sandia Trailers will have the latest and greatest in horse trailers on display, all day, both days!

• Roni Merbler Enchanted Homes Realty • Medicine Massage with Jennifer Black • Robin Prudencio, Farm Services Financial Services • Horse Around New Mexico Magazine Medicine Massa ge

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Robin Prudencio, Agent

HORSE NEWS AROUND NEW MEXICO

State Park Now Offers Corrals Caballo Lake State Park, south of Truth or Consequences, has installed four large pipe corrals with cover, a tack room, water and two picnic tables in the primitive camping area north of the RV spaces.

The horse facility was moved from a ranch owned by the state and assembled at Caballo. The next step is to determine a designated manure dumping station and method of removal.

There is ride out on sandy lanes to the lake, and to the north. The cost for one rig is $8 per day. Call the park for more information: 575-743-3942.

Duo From Las Cruces Wins Trail Riding Comp

Congratulations to Dawn Haggen and her horse Conquistador for winning the division 3 competition of Top Trail Horse Challenge, sponsored by Hawthorne Products, in January. The pair from Las Cruces traveled 80 miles in one month. “It was the first time we’d entered anything, and I’ll be darned if we didn’t win!” said Dawn. Now the team is competing for the quarterly award, and is currently in first place.

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I am an avid horsewoman. Jennifer’s massage technique makes it easier for me to ride. My horse appreciates the changes in my body as much as I do!

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Medicine Massage, Jennifer Black LMT #7103 Albuquerque, NM

Call Jennifer Black to schedule a massage.

Jennifer owns two horses, rides regularly, and specializes in massage for equestrians.

Horse Handling Clinics Provided to Volunteers at The Horse Shelter

Earlier this year, The Horse Shelter in Cerrillos held three clinics for volunteers to teach them to better handle horses at the shelter, especially horses chosen for July’s Gimme Shelter Trainer Rally for Rescues Competition. Clinics were put on by Clint Mortenson, Jarratt Applewhite, and Michael Acuna, who all donated their time and expertise.

Michael’s clinic focused on haltering a horse in a paddock.

Many of The Horse Shelter horses are not used to being caught and haltered. Mike pointed out that it is important to check your emotions, breathe, and relax before entering a paddock. He also gave the tip to not wear sun glasses and to not look the horse in the eye when approaching. Most of all, Michael advised the volunteers to have a plan, to know what to do when the horse evades.

“Some horses are very feral and have trust issues. They have a high flight response,” explained Michele Wolford, who comanages the shelter with her husband, Mike.

Clint showed volunteers ground work: how to get horses to yield, then disengage their hind quarters; back up until they gave their heads with vertical flexion, and; go in one direction, change direction, then stop.

The volunteers were being instructed so the horses would be better ready for training. “This program makes the horses more adoptable. The more horses we adopt out, the more we can take in,” said Michele.

The volunteers had various amounts of horse experience.

Some had none. Michelle explained that the program builds confidence not only in the horses, but in the humans as well.

To find out more, visit www.thehorseshelter.org.

Pictured: Volunteer Zoe Lipscomb with Stella.

Submit news items for consideration to: HorseNewMexico@gmail.com www.horsearoundnm.com | April/May 2016 | HORSE AROUND

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Live The Equestrian Lifestyle With A Horse Property in New Mexico’s Premiere Riding Area

Alto, New Mexico - Custom Santa Fe style home on 5 horse-friendly acres. This 3 bedroom two and one-half bath has soaring ceilings with vigas, 2 kiva fireplaces, stainless appliances and so much more.

Also included is a casita with 2 bedrooms 1 bath and kitchen. MLS #112384 Asking Price $525,000

Annette Wood Associate Broker

Alto, New Mexico - Custom, quality built 3 bedroom 2 bath home on 3 acres. Horses allowed. Also comes with extra 960 sq ft metal shop with concrete floors. MLS #115356 Asking Price $399,500

• Specializing in horse property or that cabin in the woods.

• Serving Lincoln and Otero Counties, Ruidoso, Alto, Capitain, Ruidoso Downs, Bent, and Cloudcroft.

• Let me show you around! We have 100’s of trails and horse properties available.

• See all homes for sale at www.AnnetteSellsInRuidoso.com

“

Want to list your home?

Call me for your free comparative market analysis.

Ruidoso Downs, New Mexico - One of the original horse training properties in Ruidoso Downs. Manufactured add-on with a four stall barn. Close the Ruidoso Downs Race Track and less than 1/2 mile to National Forest and an abundance of riding trails. MLS #116883 Asking Price $179,000

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Call or text: 575-808-9000 Email: Annettewood@gmail.com Visit me on Facebook www.AnnetteSellsInRuidoso.com

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Alto, New Mexico - Fabulous horse property close to Ruidoso, New Mexico. Remodeled 3 bedroom 2 bath home on 3 +/- acres. Barn HORSE AROUND | April/May 2016 | www.horsearoundnm.com and safe fencing and pens for horses. Close to riding trails. MLS #115559 Asking Price $399,000 575-257-8516

Stall Barn | Riding Arena | Equine Facility | Pasture Shelter | Hay Storage

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7621 Canyon Dr. • Amarillo, TX J. Craig Shanks 806-922-4449

For over a century Morton Buildings has provided exceptional quality and service to our customers. From stall barns and riding arenas to storage buildings and shelters, Morton Buildings are constructed to keep both you and your horses safe and comfortable.

To learn more and to get started on your project, contact Morton Buildings today.

mortonbuildings.com

©2016 Morton Buildings, Inc. A listing of GC licenses available at mortonbuildings.com/licenses. NM License #016516 Reference Code 043

SayWhoa!

Promotes the "FLOW" of digestion and elimination of retained stool.

Pre-Race Performance Finish Strong Breath Easier

Horses may become impacted by simple acts of:  Severe Weather Changes  Abrupt Change of Feed  Long Horseback Rides.  Or Stall Bound

HALT - Over active flow through digestive tract produces “Non-Formed Stools.”

Use to Promote Normal Digestive Flow.

Promotes normal “FORMED" STOOLS Did your horse “Eat Up"? Use EAT UP to promote horses to finish feed with aggressive appetite.

Promote healthy appetite and support normal digestion.

Haul ‘n Go - Hot Trailers and Dry Hay is not a winning combination when it comes to a horses digestive tract. This will keep horses drinking and maintain their digestive “Flow". Use BEFORE Hauling, Long Horseback Rides or AFTER Severe Weather Changes, Changes in Feed or Stall-Bound.

SayWhoa! promotes the "FLOW" of digestion and elimination of retained stool.

All Natural - Does not contain probiotics.

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5 year shelf life / any temperature  

In Your Time of Need It’s What You Do First!

Use As Your First Defense Not Your Last Hope!

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www.horsearoundnm.com | April/May 2016 | HORSE AROUND

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Albuquerque Pet Memorial Service

When a beloved companion dies, treat them with the dignity and respect they deserve.

Phone: 505-550-4793 Pager: 505-790-5596

132 Mountain Park Place NW Suite A, Albuquerque, NM

APMS is owned by David and Kelly Gifford.

David has over 35 years of experience in the cremation industry. He is certified as a federally recognized instructor in the process of cremation. Kelly Gifford is a registered nurse, manages the APMS office and, along with David, is an avid animal lover. She is pictured below with her Icelandic horse, Rohan. Albuquerque Pet Memorial Service is the largest cremation service provider in the state of New Mexico, in operation since 1999.

Albuquerque Pet Memorial Service provides a sensitive alternative for animal owners. We promise to treat your animal companion with the dignity and respect they deserve. We offer: •

Convenient and coordinated response when your horse or pet dies.

•

Respectful pick up at veterinarian offices, boarding facilities, or your residence.

•

Dignified horse/pet cremation services.

•

A large selection of urns.

•

Private cremation services, with cremated remains returned for burial or scattering.

In your time of need, let Albuquerque Pet Memorial Service help.

www.AlbuquerquePetMemorial.com

10 HORSE AROUND | April/May 2016 | www.horsearoundnm.com

Getting an experienced, reliable horse sitter will help you worry less during your vacation.

F

Tips to Finding the Perfect Horse Sitter

For those who need a horse sitter, it is important that you trust the person you hire. If you ask around or read Internet discussion boards, you can easily find horror stories. How does one find a trustworthy and knowledgeable person?

Choose somebody with experience Ask about the person’s level of experience.

How many years have they had horses?

Have they cared for their own? Do they have work experience with a veterinarian, a stable, or a trainer? You want a person who can think about a situation and make a good decision; somebody with common sense and horse sense.

Can the person you are interviewing halter and lead the horse? Do they understand the importance of a feeding schedule and access to water? Watch the person interact with your horses. Do they seem comfortable and confident?

If you have other pets, it may be prudent to hire one person who will care for the horses and another who will care for your other pets. For example, if you have six pet

By Stacie G. Boswell, DVM, DACVS

birds as well as a horse, finding the right person with experience with both horses and birds may be tricky.

required? Some horse sitters will require full payment upfront, and all should be paid at least partially up front.

Make sure they can provide the level of care you expect If the person is working three part-time jobs and can only feed at 4AM and midnight, they might not be able to make sure that Sweetie gets all her supplements or even notice that Charger is lame on the left front. Are they going to be able to at least look at your horses in the daylight?

Will their schedule be able to closely approximate the times you normally feed and care for your horses? Will the person be able to commit extra time if an emergency does occur? Do they need to stay overnight at your house or just visit briefly? Make your expectations clear, so you know the person can meet them. You want the person to do things your way: A red flag would be somebody who suggests changes in your routine.

Set them up for success Instructions should be brief, clearly written, and available. It is a good idea to send one in an email so that an electronic copy is available. Placing a printed copy in your feed room in the barn and another printed copy in other areas that need care is a good idea. For example, place another on your kitchen counter near where your dog is fed.

Are you willing and able to pay somebody appropriately for the time commitment

Simplify your routine! You want your horses to get the best care possible.

Prioritize what is most important. Premeasure and label supplements. You may consider pre-measuring and labeling grain portions as well. Clean and top off all of your water troughs. Make sure gates are working/latching properly.

Label everything – you don’t want somebody to mistake the chicken layer pellets for the horse pellets! Identify your

www.horsearoundnm.com | April/May 2016 | HORSE AROUND

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horses – three chestnut geldings may be very different to you, but strikingly similar to others. Make sure halters and lead ropes for each horse are accessible and ready.

Ensure that hay, feed, and supplies are well stocked. If your pet sitter runs out of shavings on Thursday, you are much more likely to find unsatisfactory stalls when you return on Sunday!

Show them everything at your barn and house that they will need to know. Have your prospective person go through every step with you with the printed instructions in hand and while you clarify verbally. It is also a good idea for your horse sitter to do a “practice run” while you are still in town, so that any unforeseen questions or concerns can be identified and addressed.

Check references and ask about certification This is important. Check references – check all of them. Ask the references if the pet sitter has ever had to deal with an emergency for them. How was it handled? Did they follow instructions? Are there any extenuating circumstances about the person that might influence their ability to do a good job?

Being licensed, insured, or a certified professional certainly isn’t necessary to do a good job. It does, however, show that they have a high level of commitment, which can translate to excellent care.

A pet sitting company will likely have online reviews that you can peruse as well.

Prepare for emergencies Instructions for your veterinarian should be clearly written in detail and signed. It is a good idea to call your veterinarian’s office and let them know exactly what dates you expect to be away, give them the pet sitter’s name and contact information, and arrange for treatment authorization and payment. Consider involving a close friend or relative as a back-up person for tough decisions. Leave a copy of your itinerary and your contact information while you will be away.

Discuss with your caretaker your choices for each of your animals for intensive care, surgery, or euthanasia. Make your budget clear.

Talk to them about previous medical history, and have a binder or file ready with the information about each animal in case it is needed.

Write out contact information for your farrier, your veterinarian, your insurance company, and any other relevant people, so your pet sitter has easy access. If you are not traveling with your truck and trailer, have it hooked up and ready to roll. If the pet sitter is not comfortable with driving it, or if it will be with you, find a trustworthy person to be available to transport your horses in your absence.

Enjoy your worry-free vacation!

Careful upfront screening and preparation will increase your chances of having a worry-free vacation! The bottom line is that doing your homework upfront will help make sure your beloved horses are well cared for while you are away.

Stacie G Boswell, DVM, DACVS is an equine veterinarian at Western Trails Veterinary Hospital in Edgewood, New Mexico.

12 HORSE AROUND | April/May 2016 | www.horsearoundnm.com

Custom, Intimate Portraits of Your Pet Drawn or Painted by

L. Thayer Hutchinson 908-235-1037 thayerboo2@gmail.com Visit my Facebook www.facebook.com/thayerhutchinson

EASY 1-40 ON/OFF BETWEEN EDGEWOOD & ALBUQUERQUE

Ride Enchanted BY PEGGY CONGER, ANNETTE WOOD, SUE MURPHY

New Mexico has no shortage of magical, breath-taking, and historical riding destinations

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Imagine riding out from the exact place where a posse took out after Billy the Kid in 1880, or trailing past fortified battlements where desperate settlers once fended off Apache raiding parties. Or venturing into a tiny box canyon where no human has set foot for years... if ever. Or finding yourself on a mountain ridge, with a 100-mile view and no sound in the air but the breath of the horses and the scream of a hawk.

New Mexico has no shortage of awesome riding destinations, spectacular scenery, and wonderful horse vacation options.

Every corner of the state, from the green high country around Taos to the dry vastness of the Chihuahuan Desert in the south, offers adventure for riders of every skill level and inclination.

If we were to write about them all, we’d have to publish an encyclopedia! Instead, in this travel issue of Horse Around New Mexico and our trail riding issue next time, we will attempt to give readers a good

Ever want to camp in the middle of nowhere with only your horse, good friends, a warm place to sleep, and great meals? Try a guided pack trip, or a drop-camp trip in the Gila Wilderness.

(Photo courtesy U-Trail’s Adventures.)

sampling of what’s out there to enjoy as a horseback traveler and trail rider here in New Mexico. If we missed a favorite of yours, please clue us in on the Horse Around New Mexico Facebook page.

THE GILA WILDERNESS U-Trail’s Horseback Adventures This riding and guest ranch operation is gateway to two wilderness areas: the Gila in New Mexico and the Blue Wilderness area, which lies largely in Arizona. Owner/ operator Jim Mater has been riding and guiding here for more than 25 years and offers every kind of riding experience you can dream up: pack trips into the Gila and the Blue, family pack trips, drop camps, wilderness retreats, women-only riding vacations, elk trophy hunts, guest ranch vacations...or come up with your own custom horseback vacation.

U-Trail’s also offers packing clinics, mule packing clinics and horsemanship clinics that cover such topics as leaveno-trace, navigation, and situational emergency skills. Mater aims to create

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confident, skilled back country riders and the man knows what he’s teaching.

He’s taught riding for 35 years, trained US Army mule and donkey teams, is a licensed outfitter and has been a National Geographic guide, to list just a few of his credentials.

Mater says some of the most gorgeous riding he offers is in the Blue, with its hoodoos, red rock canyons and cliff dwellings. But he says visitors are wowed by the beautiful terrain in both the Gila and the Blue: “Every day is a different adventure. The bulk of our customers are people who want to get out into nature and have a sense of adventure.”

U-Trail’s is 70 miles north of Silver City, 30 miles south of Reserve and 10 miles from the Arizona state line on Highway 180. Call 575-519-8569 or visit www.utrail. com for more information. Day rides are also available.

N Bar Ranch Imagine getting dropped off 100 miles from your destination and riding in cross-country, relying on just your horse

and your guides to make your way. That’s the Pathfinder ride in the Gila offered

by N Bar Ranch. Not exactly a pack trip -- the ranch sets up camp for you every night and handles all the cooking and the schlepping -- the Pathfinder is more like a step back in time, to when horses were the primary mode of transportation. “We don’t really have a set route or trail,” explains N Bar owner Preston Bates. “We just have a rendezvous point for the camp every night.”

The Pathfinder ride is one of several adventures offered at N Bar, a working cattle ranch on 125 square miles just an hour southeast of Reserve. There are loop rides, pack rides, cattle gathers, and ranch weeks, when every ride generates in a different direction from the ranch property. The riding includes grasslands, canyons, ponderosa, and rugged mountain trails.

Got a lot of riding friends? You can rent the entire place -- 7 cabins, a bunkhouse, a shower house, a cookhouse and corrals -to have for yourselves for the week.

Riders are welcome to bring their own horses. “We cater to horse people who want to ride their own horses here,” Bates says. For more information, call 575-5336253 or visit www.nbarranch.com.

Geronimo Trail Ranch Explore a different part of the Gila at Geronimo Trail Guest Ranch, which is in the Black Range Mountains two hours west of Truth or Consequences. This small ranch has 4 cabins and can accommodate parties of up to 16. Rides will take you past Mimbres cliff dwellings and pictographs on the same trails used by the ancient people who lived in this area 1000 years ago. The beautiful untouched terrain includes canyons, mesas, and ponderosa.

The ranch is located on the Geronimo Trail Scenic Byway and is operated by Meris and Seth Stout, and Diana and Harry Esterly. Meris says the guest ranch just doesn’t have the room to accommodate outside horses, but offers well-trained trail horses for any experience level. Call 575-772-5157 or visit www. geronimoranch.com for more information.

LAS CRUCES Corralitos Trail Rides If you want to experience the Old West on a day ride, try Corralitos Trail Rides, west of Las Cruces. Rides on this huge working ranch can include everything

BYOH (Bring Your Own Horse) operations are popular with horse owners. Many places provide RV hookups or cabins to rent. (Photo courtesy Gillespie Ranch.)

from dinosaur tracks to deserted mines to ancient rock art to fortified settlements where pioneers dug in during sieges.

Some trails follow the routes used by the Butterfield and Overland Stages.

Corralitos has a string of well-broke, gentle trail horses. No riders under age 8. Guiding services can also be arranged for people who want to bring their own horses. By appointment only: 575-6408184 -by Peggy Conger __________________________________ LINCOLN , OTERO, AND CHAVEZ COUNTIES Grindstone Stables Grindstone Stables is located in the tourist-friendly town of Ruidoso and offers guided day rides. If you have visitors who are hankering for a leisurely horseback ride and some nearby shopping, this is the perfect place. Grindstone caters to families and beginners, of all ages and abilities.

The mountain trail takes you through tall ponderosa pines and gives you scenic

views of Grindstone Lake. Visit www. grindstonestables.com or call 575-2572241 Gillespie Ranch Gillespie Ranch is a historic New Mexico ranch located in the southern Sacramento Mountains just east of Cloudcroft – one of the most beautiful areas of the state. A true working cattle ranch in the Lincoln National Forest, Gillespie Ranch encompasses 15,000 acres ranging in elevation from 7200 to 8600 feet. With mild winters and warm spring and summer temps, the ranch is open to visitors all year long. It offers an RV park with covered corrals, a vintage camper, and one charming cabin.

Trails range from easy to extreme. For sightseeing, Cloudcroft with its many shops and restaurants, and Ruidoso with its casinos, race track, museums, fishing, shops, and restaurants, are not far. Email www.gillespieranch@yahoo.com or call 575-687-3732.

Riding with family and friends makes the horse vacation perfect. Some destinations will accommodate large groups, or even let you rent out the entire facility. (Photo courtesy N Bar Ranch.)

Fort Stanton This 25,000 acre BLM-managed area offers 93 miles of trails for horseback riding. The equestrian camping area has lots of room for group camping. There is water, eight electrical hookups and an RV dump station with a charge of $8 per night.

From the campground, you can ride about 1-2 hours to the fort. Water troughs can be found along the trails. The fort has 53 buildings built along the Rio Bonito. It’s fun to ride your horse through the fort and pretend you live there back in the day! Vistas from the fort include the Capitan Mountains, the Sacramento Mountains, and the beautiful peak of Sierra Blanca. Call 575-3220030 for more information.

Lincoln Historic Town Site The Lincoln Historic Town Site is a greatly visited state monument in New Mexico — a community frozen in time back in the 1870s and 1880s. The historic site includes 17 structures and outbuildings, four of which are open year round and two more seasonally as museums. Most of the buildings in the community are representative of the Territorial Style of adobe architecture in the American Southwest.

You can park your horse trailer at either end of town, and, if your horses are pedestrian- and vehicle-friendly, ride through the village. You’ll see the Old Lincoln County Courthouse, the Doctor Woods House, and the Tunstall Store, with its preserved 19thcentury atmosphere. Tie up at the Dolan House, have lunch, then cross the street to ride trails once ridden by Billy the Kid. White Oaks Historical Town and No Scum Allowed Saloon Once one of the liveliest towns in the New Mexico Territory, historic White Oaks is now a near ghost town. You will find free -that's right, free! -- camping with limited hookups and water for your horses outside the saloon, and a full service watering hole for you and your friends inside (21 and up). Enjoy live entertainment and a buffet on Saturday night. Owner Marlon Coffman hosts periodic trail ride gathering weekends with two days of riding, Photos from top: Historic church at Fort Stanton. Luxury cabin at Burnt Well Guest Ranch. The center of Fort Stanton. Getting hydrated at the “No Scum Allowed” saloon.

16 HORSE AROUND | April/May 2016 | www.horsearoundnm.com

a brisket supper, and live entertainment.

Check the No Scum Allowed Facebook page for dates or call 325-513-9338.

Burnt Well Guest Ranch This ranch near Roswell is the real deal, owned and operated by a third generation rancher, Kim Chesser and his wife Patricia. The ranch offers beautiful, old-timey accommodations in a spacious ranch house, along with a private casita.

Patricia and Kim cater to guests, taking them out to try their hands at roping cattle (there are 300 on the 15,000 acres), or helping with branding and doctoring.

They’ll even make arrangements so you can ride in the grand entry of the local Roswell Ranch Rodeo. A few cattle drives and a Billy the Kid Camp Out Week are scheduled for 2016. Contact www. burntwellguestranch.com, (575) 347-2668 -by Annette Wood _________________________________ SANTA FE AND TAOS AREAS Taos Horse Getaways This is a bring-your-own-horse vacation destination near Tres Piedras and Taos.

Trails are easy to moderate with many open meadows. Taos Horse Getaways offers a cabin, two houses, electric and water hookups for three RVs, dry camping and large corrals. The 160-acre ranch features old logging roads and trails and direct access to Carson National Forest. Holly Burgess and Ken Wolosin are the owners. Guest Cindy Roper calls Holly “the hostess with the mostest.” You can even bring your dogs! And of course, there is easy access for trailers. Call 575758-3628 or visit www.taoshorsegetaways. com Cieneguilla Stables This trail riding operation,operated

by Melissa Hejma, is located north of Santa Fe in Taos County. The trails in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains include an old Apache trail. Melissa is a wealth of information about the history, archaeology, flora, fauna, and geology of the area, adding to your ride while you soak up the magnificent vistas from the Sangres. Melissa also offers a Saddle and Paddle combo for people wishing to try white water rafting in addition to riding.

Cieneguilla Stables’ rides are suitable for ages 6 and up. Call 575-751-2815.

Guest ranches often offer the ultimate in luxury horse vacations, offering horses to rent, rooms or cabins, and meals. (Photo courtesy Los Pinos Ranch.)

Los Pinos Guest Ranch Open June through September, this historic ranch is located near Cowles on the Pecos River 45 miles from Santa Fe. The ranch is at 8500 feet in Santa Fe National Forest, surrounded by the Pecos Wilderness. Established over 100 years ago, Los Pinos has been a guest ranch since the 1920s. This is a great destination for horseback riding, fishing, bird watching, hiking and star gazing. No prior horse experience is required to ride. General manager Alice McSweeney, a gourmet chef, provides three meals a day, including four or five-course dinners with homemade bread. Call 505-757-6213 or 505-757-6267 or visit www.

LosPinosRanch.com Broken Saddle Riding Company This trail riding operation is just outside Cerrillos Hills State Park off State Road 14 (Turquoise Trail) and offers day rides. Unlike most rental stables, Broken Saddle uses gaited horses. Owner Harrold Grantham says their smoother gait is a more pleasant ride for Some horse vacations offer maps of interesting rides, like this one to the “Mother Tree” at Taos Horse Getaways.

beginner riders. Broken Saddle is 26 miles south of Santa Fe outside the town of Cerrillos. Some of the oldest mines in the U.S. are located in the state park. With 38 miles of trails and plaques on each mine describing the minerals, silver or turquoise

that were mined there, each ride offers interesting mining history.

In summer, rides take place in early morning and at sunset to avoid the hottest parts of the day. The stable is open 365 days a year. Call 505-424-7774 or visit www.brokensaddle.com Mac’s Overnight Stables With a 60’ round pen, large paddocks, and box stalls, this facility is ideal if you are just passing through Santa Fe and need an overnight stop. It’s a perfect place if you are on your way to Jack’s Creek Campground, and are running out of daylight. Adjacent to I-25 near Cañoncito and US-285, Mac’s has easy access to the highway. There are several trailer parking spaces, some with electricity and water. Hotels for humans are just down the road, too. The stable is adjacent to the Eldorado Wilderness, with more than 20 miles of interesting single track, moderately hilly trails.

Contact www.macsstables.com, or 505-466-2815.

The Stables at Bishop’s Lodge This historic resort near Santa Fe is under renovation until 2017, but its legendary stable, which has operated since the early 1900s, is open. Trail rides take visitors up into the Sangre de Cristos for beautiful vistas. Operations manager Amilcar Henriquez says the stables can also accommodate up to five horses for brief overnight stays for riders passing through Santa Fe. Overnight visitors can access the stable’s trails if they choose. Bishop’s Lodge Stables also offer an equestrian program with lessons. Call 505-819-4013.

-by Sue Murphy

Ride the Magnificent Gila Wilderness!

•Five-day pack trips in the •Guest ranch vacations.

Gila and Arizona’s Blue Bring your own horse or Mountain primitive areas ride one of our gentle trail horses.

•A once-in-a-lifetime experience! Mountain and •Mule packing/backcountry alpine riding at its best! horsemanship clinics •Day ride adventures along •Free 1/2 day children’s the scenic San Francisco riding lessons (12 & River. Visit historic sites. under)

575-519-8569

Utrail.com

Glenwood, New Mexico

HORSE VACATION/ TRAVEL DIRECTORY Listed here are places to have fun with horses, and places to stop while traveling with horses. Horse Around New Mexico magazine dedicated the time and space to make this the most complete list possible. We may, however, have overlooked a business. Please let us know if you would like to be added to this listing: HorseNewMexico@gmail.com, 360-239-9337.

TIPS: Some Guest ranches are all-inclusive horse vacations. They supply your room, meals, and horses. Others let you bring your own horse and camp in your own rig. Outfitters usually provide all-inclusive overnight adventures in the wilderness. Overnight stables/ horse motels can be used when you are traveling with horses for multiple days. Some offer cabins or rooms for humans, have motels nearby, let you stay for longer terms, and have nearby trails. To find out what each horse business offers, call or visit their website. Let them know you saw them in Horse Around!

Guest Ranches/Outfitting/ Riding Vacations Bluewater Lake Lodge, Prewitt; trails, full hookups, small cabins: 505-290-2699; www.bluewaterlake-lodge.com Burnt Well Guest Ranch, Roswell; working cattle ranch, large ranch house, cattle round ups; 575-347-2668; www. burntwellguestranch.com Concho Hills Guest Ranch, Magdalena; trail riding, ranch activities, cowboy shooting, historical tours, award-winning accommodations. (575) 772-5757 Cow Creek Ranch, Pecos; fly fishing,horseback riding in the Sangre de Cristos. (505) 757-2107 Creek Ranch, Santa Rosa; All inclusive horseback vacations on 82,000 acres, genuine working cattle and guest ranch; www.creek-ranch.com Geronimo Trail Guest Ranch; remote dude ranch; 575-772-5157; www. geronimoranch.com Gillespie Ranch, Mayhill; large pens, gift shop, cozy cottage, RV hookups; 575687-3732; www.gillespieranchulazy2.com Justyn Brynn Enchantment Equitreks, Edgewood; All-inclusive horseback riding adventures offering day rides, weekend, 5-day, 7-day and 8-day packages; 575430-7514; www.enchantmentequitreks. com Los Pinos Guest Ranch, Cowles; lodge and gourmet meals; 505-757-6213; www. lospinosranch.com NAN Ranch, Faywood; rent the HQ of national registered historic 1870s ranch in the Mimbres River Valley, BYOH; 575288-5368 Nancy Burch’s Roadrunner Tours, Red River; overnight camping excursions and trail riding; 575-377-6416; www. nancyburch.com N Bar Ranch, Reserve; surrounded by Gila National Forest, BYOH or ours, rent entire ranch; 575-533-6253; nbarranch@ hughes.net Quinlan Ranch, Chama; RV hookups, guided rides, lodge and meals; 575-2091618; www,quinlanranch.com Starrynight Ranch, Llaves; All-inclusive, children’s camps, remote guided rides through private and BLM land, guest cottage and rooms, BYOH or ours; 575-554-0577/ 575-638-5661; www. starrynightranch.com Taos Horse Getaways, Tres Piedras; BYOH; houses, cabins, RV space; 575758-3628; www.taoshorsegetaways.com

Twin Willows Guest Ranch, Ocate, near Double Y Ranch, Santa Fe; hot Angel Fire; Log house with log house for walker, RV hookup; 602-320-7136; 8 for rent, BYOH.575-666-2028 amazcowboy@cox.net

Trail Riding Operations Acacia Riding Adventures, San Acacia; 575517-0477; www.acaciaridingadventures.com

TwoPonyz Ranch, Mountainair; guest house; BYOH; 505-847-0245; www. twoponyzranch.com

D S Horse Motel, Grants; next to an RV park with full hookups; 505-240-2544; darinsimpson2003@yahoo.com

Broken Saddle Riding Company, Cerrillos; gaited horses; 505-424-772; www. brokensaddle.com

U-Trail’s, Glenwood; guided pack trips, day rides; lodge, gourmet meals; 575519-8569; www.utrail.com

J Bar C Horse Motel, Roswell; arena, 2 RV hookups; 575-347-2742 / 575-626-5296 / 575-626-5294; www. jbarchorsemotel.com

Bishop’s Lodge Stables, Santa Fe; www. bishopslodge.com

Kiva RV Park and Horse Motel, Bernardo; 14 stalls, large pens, obstacle course, round pen; Tel: 505-861-0693; www. kivarvparkandhorsemotel.com

Cieneguilla Stables, near Taos; trail rides and “saddle and paddle” combo trips; 575751-2815

Vermejo Park Ranch, Raton; Ted Turner-owned luxury resort offers guided J.P.'s Horse Motel, Mentmore (Gallup); horseback rides; vermejoparkranch.com arena; 505-979-1192 Wolfhorse Outfitters, Gila/Aldo Leopold Wilderness; Native American Guide Service; 575-534-1379; www.

WolfHorseOutfitters.com Overnight Stabling 4 Winds Equestrian Center, Estancia; RV/trailer sites with electrical hookups, small travel trailer, arenas, nearby riding in the Manzanos & Sandias; 505-384-1831

Kiss the Moon Equestrian Center, Moriarty; Easy I-40 access, indoor arena, easy access for bigger rigs/haulers; 505-975-3567

The Albatross, Santa Fe; horse motel, long and short-term, outdoor arena and round pen; 505-231-8570; john@ mineralogica.org

Las Cruces Horse Motel, Las Cruces; 5 minute trail ride to Rio Grande, RV hookups, roping arena with cattle; 575644-3518; www.lascruceshorsemotel.com

Arrowhead Ranch, Santa Fe; multiple arenas and trail access; 505-424-8888; Arrowheadsantafe@aol.com

LazyKo Ranch. Deming;horse motel, hookups with open range for riding; 575202-2876; www.chickentracks.biz

Branco's Boarding Stables, Las Cruces; full hookups, daily/weekly/monthly rates, access to BLM land trails; 575-636-8809; www.brancosboardingstables.com

Mac’s Overnight Stables, near Santa Fe on 1-25: round pen and trails, RV hookup; 505-466-2815; www. macsovernightstables.com

Broken M Ranch, Albuquerque; large arena w/lights; barrels; round pen; wash rack; dry camping; 505-877-9433; www.broken-m-ranch.com

Open Heart G Farms, Anthony; located on 25-acre pecan orchard, indoor box stalls, hookups, bunkhouse; 915-9205169; openheartgfarms@gmail.com

Bruton Stables Raton; outdoor arena and round pen; 575-447-8777; brutonstables@gmail.com

Rancho de la Angostura, Algodones: easy trail access, power available, arena and round pen; 505-280-4849; www. katylindberg.com

Carter's Stables, Farmington; guest house, one full hookup; 505-330-3066; www.cartersstablesfarmington.com

Rancho Siesta, Edgewood; dry camping, spacious corrals; 505-450-3165

Cedar Crest Stables & Country Cottage, Cedar Crest; mountain riding, cottage for rent; 505-281-5197; www.cedarcreststables. com

Circle S Riding Stable and Outfitting, Tererro; trail rides in Pecos Wilderness June-July, elk hunt outfitting Sept.-Oct. 575-288-5055, 505-757-8440; www. circlesridingstable.com Corralitos Trail Rides, near Las Cruces; working ranch riding; 575-640-8184; www. corraltostrailrides.com Enchanted Gaits, Tijeras; smooth, gaited horses; 505-281-2226 Ghost Ranch, Abiquiu; 505-685-1000 Grindstone Stables, Ruidoso; guided trail rides, sleigh and carriage rides; 575-2572241; www.grindstonestables.com Inn of the Mountain Gods Riding Stable, Mescalero; 575-464-7424 New Mexico Horse Adventures, Albuquerque; BYOH or rent; 505-301-0917; www.newmexicohorseadventures.com Red River Stables, Red River; ride, fish, view wildlife; 575-747-1700; www.

RedRiverStables.com Rio Grande Stables, Taos & Questa; hourly plus multi-day rides; 888-259-8267 / 575776-5913; wwwlajitasstables.com

Runnels Bonita Stables, Nogal: Ride near Caballo Lake State Park, Caballo; four Rocking Horse Ranch, Moriarty; huge Bonito Lake, no reservations needed; 575large pipe corrals with cover, tack room, indoor arena; 505-832-6619 / 505-301354-2778 water, trails, easy on/off I-25; 575-743- 3772; www.rockinghorseranch.net 3942 Roy-El Horse Hotel , Espanola; 505-603- Santa Fe Western Adventures, Santa Fe; ride on private ranch and Lone Cassetta Critter Care, Tucumcari; horse 6016; www.roy-elmorgans.com Butte Mountain; 505-473-9384; www. motel, roping arena, trailer hook up; SantaFeWest.com 575-403-6227 / 603-798-5033; www.

Slash M Slash Ranch, Grants; horse cassettacrittercare.com; Facebook.com/ motel, indoor riding arena, roping arena, Stables at Tamaya Resort, Bernalillo, 505cassettacrittercarehorsemotel bunkhouse; 505-290-7836 / 505-290771-6060 2645; jodiepalmermirabal@hotmail.com Crossroads Ranch, Anthony; 575-882Vision Quest, Las Vegas; private, catered 5533 Ride To Pride at “The Barn,” Las Vegas; rides, family activities;505-469-8130; www. easy access off 1-25; 505-429-9935 / VisionQuestHorseBackRide.com Diamond Arrow Ranch, Deming, 5 RV 429-3905; www.ridetopride.com hookups, ride out on BLM land, big rig friendly; 575-546-1115 /480-332-8265; Western Drive Stables, Tucumcari; 575- 2016 | HORSE AROUND 19 www.horsearoundnm.com | April/May gregsandy03@hotmail.com 461-0274 / 575-403-8824; hallerstable@ plateautel.net

Keeping Your Horse

Safe & Healthy

for the Long Haul What you need to do for your horse before and during a long trailer trip

BY PEGGY CONGER a long trip can be a good precaution, Dr. Boswell says. Offer water at every stop, Dr. Boswell says, and keep an eye on your horse’s attitude and behavior.

Off behavior should send you directly to Terry Flanagan’s mustang Blue is ready for a trail ride at a ranch near a vet.

Magdalena. “He’s a relaxed hauler now, and we enjoy going to lots of Her third places together. But it initially took lots of practice and training,” says Terry. recommendation is to avoid shared troughs on the road or at night before a trip to help with digestion. your destination. Only give water out of “I know it’s been kind of discredited,” she your own buckets to avoid water-bourne says, “but I believe in it. Plus it helps slick disease. that coat right up if you are going to a show.”

Veterinarian Stacie Boswell is no stranger In the course of her career as a trainer On the road, Terri offers water at every to long trips with horses in tow: She and show judge, Terri Klein-Rakosky has break, twice. Because she has hydrated moved her horses from New Mexico to hauled thousands of miles, both on the with the electrolytes and mash beforehand, New York, Tennessee, Kentucky, and East Coast and in the southwest. She has she doesn’t worry too much if horses don’t eventually back home to New Mexico, one big piece of advice for anyone hauling drink en route. She uses small buckets to where she is now a vet at Western Trails their horse any distance: “As much as water. “They’re easier to handle and the Animal Hospital in Edgewood. possible, try not to alter the horse’s natural horses will drink out of them just as easily Her number one piece of advice? Stop environment and routine while trailering.” as large buckets.” every four hours and allow your horse So bring water and feed from home, to lower its head and cough to prevent and resist the temptation to do something Jim Luckie, who sells trailers at Sandia pleuro-pneumonia, commonly known as new, like wrap a horse’s hind legs for the Trailers, has hauled horses all over the shipping fever. first time. “The trailer is no place to train U.S., as an endurance rider and show “Lowering the head and coughing lets your horse,” she says, competitor. Jim leaves his horses in the the horse clear its airway,” she says. She Before a long haul, Terri adds trailer en route because of an experience also suggests dunking the hay you feed electrolytes to her horses’ water for several that should give all horse people pause. He your horse en route to get rid of dust. Wet days to help combat dehydration during and his brother-in-law went to California hay also helps to keep your horse hydrated the trip. Bring the electrolytes along, and to pick up a newly purchased endurance on the road. add them to mask the taste of any different horse. After about six hours on the road, The other big risk on the road of course water your horse may be drinking. “It’s like they decided to let the horse out of the is colic. If you have a horse prone to colic, Kool-Aid to them,” she says. trailer for a break. “Well, he came barreling having a vet tube and oil that horse before She also gives horses bran mash the out of that trailer, and took off,” Jim says. “We were three hours trying to get 20 HORSE AROUND | April/May 2016 | www.horsearoundnm.com him back, with people up and down the

Spring and summer bring out our vagabond tendencies. We want to load the horses, get in the truck and go! And sometimes our destinations are far-flung. That can translate to hours, even days, of travel in the trailer for our horses.

Horse Around New Mexico talked to folks with years of longhaul trailering experience to find out how to make those long trips as safe and healthy as possible for your horse.

highway helping us.”

The take away? “Don’t do what we did!

If you are going to get your horses out of the trailer, do it in a secured location,” Jim says.

While many people wrap their horses’ legs for travel, experts advise against it. An article published by the Kentucky Horse Council, whose members are no strangers to shipping horses long distance, notes: “The use of shipping boots/bandages can be of benefit as they protect the horse’s lower leg during transport, however during lengthy transport, there are risks of use that might outweigh those benefits.

Wearing shipping boots/bandages for several hours might decrease blood flow, increase heat, and cause sores.”

Terri Klein-Rakosky says she rarely wraps horses for trailering anymore. “More

often, you are creating more problems than you’re solving. Heat really builds up under those wraps,” she says. Or wraps slip or unravel, which may cause horses to stress or kick. If you are transporting several horses, unloading some to get to the one whose wraps are causing problems is risky, she points out. When she thinks there is an injury possibility from trailering, Terri more typically uses bell boots.

Beware of hot weather! It’s a no-brainer that you should travel with your windows and vents open in summer. But even so horses can overheat quickly during stops.

“Your vents and windows are your cooling system,” Dr. Boswell points out. “When the trailer is sitting still, your horses are not getting ventilation.” In hot weather, try to park in shade and keep stops short to avoid overheating.

Pre-dawn departure or night travel helps. When she’s headed to summer

Quick Trailering Tips Before you leave: • Don’t try to travel with a horse that doesn’t load willingly. Few things are more stressful than being unable to load your horse on the road.

• Give horses electrolytes in their water for several days before departure.

• When warm, open vents and all windows with guards. In cold weather, travel with buttside windows open.

En route: • Take breaks every few hours. “Standing in a horse trailer takes a lot of effort,” the Horse Council article notes.

“It is a constant balancing act for your horse, as the transport vehicle increases and decreases speed and maneuvers into and out of traffic.”

Breaks allow your horse to unlock its legs and relax.

• Untie your horse’s head at each stop so they can lower it and cough.

• •

• •

Offer water at every stop Check horses at every stop for signs of colic or other physical distress.

“Their eyes should be bright and alert and they should be looking at you normally,” Dr. Boswell says.

Feed horses wetted hay from home to munch on throughout the trip.

Do not unload horses in unsecured areas.

• •

shows, Terri leaves in the evening and drives all night. “It’s cooler and there’s less traffic,” she says.

Though humans riding in trailers is not legal in most states, some sources recommend taking a spin in the back of your trailer to see how the ventilation is working and if there are any hot spots. A stud stall door, for example, can impede air flow and make that space in your trailer particularly warm.

If your horse is in danger of overheating, maybe due to a breakdown or traffic tie-up, you can sponge it down or cover it with a water-soaked sheet to help it cool off, Dr. Boswell says. __________________________________ Horse Around NM Associate Editor Peggy Conger is a writer, editor, blogger, and trail rider. She rides an adopted mustang and a Spanish Barb. She can be reached at p_conger@yahoo.com.

Never let horses travel with their heads out the window Keep your time on the road reasonable. Dr. Boswell recommends no longer than 12 hours at a time.

When overnighting • Walk your horses to give them a chance to stretch their legs before putting them in a stall for the night.

“Walking is critical to gut motility,” Dr. Boswell says.

•

•

•

Personally and thoroughly check all gates and latches in any enclosure you release your horse into, even if you have to do so by flashlight. Don’t just assume a pen is secure.

Ask that any old feed be removed from your horse’s pen, or remove it yourself. Water out of your own buckets.

Give wetted hay from home to horses who refuse to drink.

“Trailers are noisy, swaying dark caves,” Dr. Boswell points out. “It is amazing that our horses willingly go into them for us, not once, but over and over again.”

It’s a real sign of your horse’s trust that he or she trailers well for you.

Be sure to reward that trust by doing everything you can to keep your equine safe and healthy on the go.

www.horsearoundnm.com | April/May 2016 | HORSE AROUND

21

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3675 Corrales Rd, Corrales, NM 87048 ~ (505) 897-9328

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On Call for 24-Hour Emergency, Large and Small Animals Fax: (505)286-4692 WWW.WESTERNTRAILSVET.COM

ONLY THE BEST FOR YOUR HORSE: • Caring staff • House calls • 24/7 emergency care • Full in-house lab digital X-ray CALL NOW to schedule spring vaccinations for your horse: 505-286-4604

22 HORSE AROUND | April/May 2016 | www.horsearoundnm.com

Reality isn’t just on TV.

“Keep them doggies rollin’

RAWHIDE!”

PHOTO BY C. LOVELAND PHOTOGRAPHY

Tucumcari Rawhide Days

Friday & Saturday, April 15-16, 2016 Tucumcari Convention Center/Historical Museum

The Rawhide TV series was filmed on Tucumcari area ranches in 1959. This event celebrates the series, plus the magic of the Old West.

Relive the old days! Dress in period clothes. Free showings of Rawhide, 1-5 PM at the Historic Odeon Theater, April 14 - 16.

BOTH DAYS, APRIL 15 (noon - sunset) & April 16 (9-5), Tucumcari Convention Center, FREE! Trick Roper Show / Longhorn Photo Ops / New Mexico Gunfighters & Local Gunfights World-Renowned Farrier Demo / Music / Cowboy Poetry / Food / Vendors / Mechanical Bull PLUS April 15, Tucumcari Convention Center 8 PM • The Next Generation Band: Sons and Daughters of Country Legends Performance with Sheb Wooley’s daughter Chrystie Wooley, Faron Young’s son, Robyn Young, and Hank Williams’ daughter, Jett Williams • New Mexico Artists: Luke Reed (nationally recognized artist), Mike Moutoux, “The Enchanting Cowboy” • Special Guests: Kimber Eastwood, “Wishbone” Paul Brinegar’s wife Shirley and son Mark Cost: 13/over $20, 12/under $10, under 5 FREE Order Tickets Today: tucumcarirawhidedays.com

April 16, Tucumcari Convention Center and Historic Museum 9-5 • Ms. Rawhide Pageant • Wagon Rides • Gun Historian • Demos of Chuck Wagon, Dutch Oven, Blacksmith • Music and Cowboy Poetry • Pie Eating Contest • Games for Kids 10 AM • All-Horse Parade & Longhorn Cattle Drive Cost: FREE!

Presented by KTNM/KQAY and the Eastern New Mexico Arts & Cultural Center.

Event funded in part by the Tucumcari Lodgers Tax Board.

Facebook.com/tucumcarirawhidedays

tucumcarirawhidedays@gmail.com

We pride ourselves in customer service and pricing!

Suggested De-Worming Schedule for Horses Taking your horse

and dog with you this summer on vacation?

Let us help you pack an emergency kit with all the items that will make your trip more enjoyable - at least for the horse and dog!

Jan/Feb 1 tube Pyrantel Pamoate Mar/April 1 tube Oxibendazole or Fenbendazole May/June 1 tube 1.87% Ivermectin July/Aug 1 tube Pyrantel Pamoate Sept/Oct 1 tube Oxibendazole or Krissy and Hunter have Fenbendazole plenty of suggestions!

Nov/Dec 1 tube Praziquantel CombinationSupply Pauls’ Veterinarian is known for our small town customer service!

Stop by and see Krissy, Hunter, and our friendly staff!

3825 Osuna NE 3825 Osuna Albuquerque, NMNE 87109 Albuquerque, NM 87109 505-341-9401

505-341-9401

2005 SE Main Roswell, NM 88203 2005 SE Main 575-624-2123 Roswell, NM 88203

Before You Hit The Road

By Vikki Chavez

That long-planned camping trip is finally here! The sky is an endless blue, no wind predicted, your riding pals have sound horses, and your rig has been safety checked. Sounds perfect! Yet, no event involving horses is complete without something happening; a thrown shoe, broken girth, or your freshly-oiled bridle left on the side of your horse trailer 180 miles back, unbeknownst to you as you pulled away from home with your steaming coffee and an adventurous heart.

I always try to pack wisely, so my trip will go smoothly no matter what life (or my horse) throws my way. Here are tips: 1. A ‘Murphy’s Law’ bag. This large, waterproof, and breathable bag (plus a smaller bag or two thrown in) contains everything your horse (that creek-rolling, escape-savvy, overreaching, founder prone, gnat-sensitive guy or gal) and you (that lovely, easily burned, hypoglycemic, joint pain-inclined, cellphone-dependent self) may need to get through this trip happily-ever-after. There is no joy for the allergic in riding through pollen central without antihistamine pills, no matter how gorgeous the scenery. Know thyself (and thy horse) and pack accordingly.

2. A highline, high tie, or portable corral as overnight containment options to make sure your horse is still around (and sound) in the morning. If you opt to tie your horse to tree, carry a tree saver to protect the tree. A safety step for those who tie horses overnight is to put a strand of trail bells on or by the halter so you can hear if your horse gets into trouble. Of course, make certain neither your horse, nor any of your friend’s horses, are spooked by the sound of trail bells! You can do this easily by wearing the bells on a test ride. Trail bells are also a great way to alert wildlife you are coming, so they leave the area and don’t spook your horse.

3. Your contact information on the halter and bridle. Use tags (like dog collar tags) that can be attached, or woven into a mane braid. Or buy a leather collar with a tag before you depart.

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4. Bug protection for horse and human including a fly mask to use while trailering, and one that fits over the bridle while riding, to protect eyes against bugs, sunburn, and discomfort. Full ear style keeps gnats at bay and a long nose style protects pink skin and sensitive grazing muzzles. Add a scrim sheet overnight, and fly spray, fly bands, and/or spot on products. Bring something for yourself as well! Sprays, lotions, clip-on fans, and citronella camp candles are all good options.

5. Slow feed bags hung with breakaway straps or clips are your horse’s best friend.

Keeping hay in front of your horse reduces boredom and stress while improving digestive health. Use them at home first so your horse is used to having to work for it. Otherwise, you’ll end up with pawing and bag shredding instead of peaceful munching.

6. Other must-haves that at least someone in the group should bring: standard first aid kit for people, first aid kit for horses, colic meds, electrolytes, a pair of hoof boots, leather hole punch, spare saddle/ bridle/pad/girth combo for the buddy who did not read item #1 of this article, jumper cables, gallon jugs of water, compass, solarpowered head lamp, flashlight, reflective vest, and road flares.

It is a beautiful gift to be healthy enough to ride and to have the honor of sharing our lives with amazing horses. We are so lucky to be able to travel and vacation with our horses, and visit beautiful locations in New Mexico.

Turn off your phone, let the sounds of nature wash over you, and feel the magic of horse, human, and the Land of Enchantment.

The True Horse Whisperer?

I

Might Be a Horse, Not a Human

Article and Photos by Evalyn Bemis

I recently spent some time at the Wild Spirit Wolf Sanctuary in Candy Kitchen, NM. As I toured enclosures housing wolves, wolfhybrids, coyotes, dingos and even several New Guinea singing dogs, I asked my guide Chad Lee what he had learned from these canines. I took Chad by surprise since he is not usually the object of peoples’ curiosity on these tours, but after a brief pause, he responded that the sanctuary’s wolves and wild dogs had taught him to be present and focused, and to always be aware of his own emotions when working with them. As he spoke, I realized those are two primary things I have learned from a life with horses.

It made me wonder: What sorts of lessons have other New Mexico horse people taken away from spending so much of their lives around equines?

Here are the thoughts they shared with me, a sampling of the gifts channeled from horses to humans.

Stuart McCall, DVM is a Santa Fe-area veterinarian and outdoorsman: “Horsemanship In the human/horse relationship, who teaches whom? Here trainer Clint Mortenson connects with Dreamer, a is a lifelong effort to become as mustang from The Horse Shelter. sensitive as a horse. The English pace not ours. They have shown me to stay Briana Cimino is an equine photographer language fails us when you are talking humble. As you work with different horses based in Santa Fe, who uses still imagery about a horse. It is great for law and you are shown that THEY can always to document the horse and human commerce, but really weak on nuance. teach US something new. I’ve learned that relationship. Her website is Beneath-TheThe way we communicate with horses training horses has no room for emotions.

Saddle.com: “The horse has taught me a can’t be fully explained with English.”

Horses don’t care if you’re having a bad new language, a necessary one of patience day, which for me is good therapy to just and kindness. The steady devotion and Chad Saulsberry is a rancher and horse chill out. I’ve learned compassion doesn’t firmness required to work with horses trainer from Magdalena: “Well, the first mean coddling them. I feel what it means showed me where self-destruction and thing horses taught me was to cuss! to a horse is only to be consistently fair and misdirection were present in my own Which led to the real lesson, which was honest.” life. And that same steadfast attention, in patience, and that horses advance at their www.horsearoundnm.com | April/May 2016 | HORSE AROUND

25

attention to what I’m thinking, feeling, and intuiting, versus ignoring the same.

My own emotional intelligence, fluidity, and responsiveness directly affects my ability to be present with the horse. If I feel scared, I keep myself safe. If I feel brave, I might push the envelope a bit. But if I’m incongruent—meaning my insides don’t match my outsides—neither myself nor my horse are usually that genuinely happy.

I’ve seen a lot of folks over-riding this type of deep listening, and therefore over-riding their horses, both on the ground and in the saddle, and that’s when things often backfire.

trust. Even horses that have been totally abused and broken, are still willing to give me their hearts and unconditional love, if I am willing to work with patience, trust, and unconditional love. I can’t imagine my life without horses in it. They frequently remind me to do a selfcheck of where I am in all of my relationships.” turn, heals me. It was on horseback that I learned to travel from intention to fruition, to create newly, and to follow through with the possibilities I see.”

Michele Wolford, with her husband Mike, is co-ranch manager of The Horse Shelter, a non-profit horse rescue organization located in Cerrillos: “No other life lessons have taught me more about patience than my experiences with horses. If I am willing to slow down and put my personal agenda (or my personal problems) aside, I will achieve more in a shorter amount of time. If I will look for the slightest try and reward that, I can build a solid relationship of

Clint Mortenson is owner of Mortenson’s Silver and Saddles in Santa Fe, and a lifelong horse trainer; www. silverandsaddles.com: “Horses have taught me if I’m confident and brave, they feel safe and secure. They have shown me how quickly and happily they learn if I remain calm and consistent. I’ve learned how to be in the right place around horses, by being in the wrong place so many times.”

Lynn Clifford, based in Santa Fe, teaches “The Ride of Your Life” clinics around the country and also offers one-onone coaching and instruction, www. lynnclifford.com: “Horses have taught me the importance of inner quiet, even amidst cacophony. I have found this by paying

Photo top left: Barbara Windom and her head trainer. Roberto Quijandria, riding La Estancia Alegre’s Peruvian Pasos. Top right: Trainer Lynn Clifford. (Courtesy Lynn Clifford.) Bottom: Chad Saulsberry works with a young mustang, Mirabelle, for owner Terry Flanagan. Right: Michele Wolford shows the skills of rescued horse Dally at The Horse Shelter trainers competition.

26 HORSE AROUND | April/May 2016 | www.horsearoundnm.com

While I love having a goal, I’ve learned to soften these goals over time, allowing more creativity and playfulness into a training session. When I take the pressure off of myself to ‘get somewhere’ and ‘get something done,’ I actually accomplish so much more, and the rewards are huge.”

Dolores Smith is an assistant manager of The Feed Bin, Santa Fe: “Horses have taught me: patience, enough to sit still and pay attention; don’t quit, keep asking, you may be closer than you think to achieving your goal; be steady, calm and fair in all things; body language speaks loudly; don’t take anything for granted; all things are possible with trust. The good times and the bad times with horses mold you and change you. Only a few people can truly see into a horse’s heart. Being part of a horse’s life is a special gift.”

Barbara Windom is owner of La Estancia Alegre in Alcalde, NM, where she breeds

and trains Peruvian horses for sale, for show, and for trail. www.laestanciaalegre.com: “For me, horses – specifically Peruvian horses -- gave me back my freedom. I grew up riding jumpers, but because of severe back problems, my passion became painful. When I moved to New Mexico in 1999, a friend suggested I try the gentle glide of her Peruvian. That ride changed my life. Thanks to the bounce-free gait of this breed, I’m back on trails and in the show ring. I’m back in the saddle, and I’m free again. When a horse connects with you, really bonds with you, it’s a level of trust you just don’t find in humans. I have more than 30 horses, but my favorite is a retired top show mare who nickers every time she sees me. There’s something so touching about that greeting – no matter what, that mare appreciates me and is happy I’m here. It’s humbling.”

In all these words of wisdom, certain threads keep repeating -paying attention, being present and focused, having patience, keeping one’s emotions in check. Do these ring true for you, too? Such simple things, but together they weave a beautiful tapestry. The most important characteristic, at least for me: the ability to truly listen and be with another highly aware being.

I remember a few times in my competitive career when all the hard work and hours of practice culminated in a sense that my horse and I stood outside of time; that we were so finely attuned to each other we flew over jumps as though one body and mind, or completed a dressage test like we were waltzing for fun. There could be no greater feeling of achievement.

Now I am as apt to find that joy in the two of us just galloping full-tilt up an arroyo. Wherever and whenever you have the chance to listen to your horse, hold onto some mane and go with it. _________________________________________________ Evalyn Bemis is a lifelong equestrian who continues to learn from every horse she meets and is grateful for every opportunity to engage with them and the people who love them.

Not just for horses.

Fundraising Auction Luncheon Sunday, May 15 • 11 am - 3 pm Buy your ticket now! $75 per person (tax deductible)

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TheHorseShelter.org

Bits, (PART Demystified 1 OF 2)

One of the greatest mysteries of horsemanship is bits, how they work, and how they should be used. Pictured here is a signal bit, a spade. This is the crème de la crème of bits, used by experienced horsemen. When used properly, and in the proper position, the bit will lightly signal the horse to put its neck in a working arch.

BY THOMAS GARCIA

May I help you with something sir? Yes, what kind of a bit will keep my horse from bucking my wife off? Step right this way, sir, over to the bit display next to Dr. Watkin’s Cure All! (lol) After a conversation with this gentleman, we decided a different bit would probably not help the situation at hand.

I

I wish there were magic bits that prevented horses from bucking, allowed them to spin and slide effortlessly on their own, or sail over jumps and obstacles with ease.

Sadly there is no such thing. The fact is, a bit’s primary function is to be a tool of communication between the rider and the horse. With that in mind, think of a horse in human terms. You would not use the same textbook and tools on a kindergarten that you would use on high school student or a graduate level student. The same rings true for bits and horses.

There have been many comprehensive books written on bits, both English and Western. There is tons of information out there, and I will try and condense it into a simple to understand article.

There are three basic types of western bits -- the snaffle, curb, and signal. Each of these come in a variety of types and materials, with subtle differences in each.

The Snaffle Bit The snaffle is the basic training bit. It is a two-handed bit. If I had a new horse to ride and didn’t know a thing about him, or what he had been ridden in, I would choose a snaffle. A snaffle is a direct action bit. The reins attach to the bit directly in line with the line of pull on the bit. One pound of pull by the rider exerts one pound of pull on the horse’s mouth. It is the preferred bit to use on a young horse or an older unbroken horse.

Snaffles come in several different types. Even though personal preference is often the basis for which to use, there are differences between the types. The simplest kind of snaffle is an O ring. It is the quickest to engage and the quickest to release giving the fastest signal to a horse.

An offset D is another common type of snaffle. Compared to the O ring, it is a slower bit, in signaling and release. As the

28 HORSE AROUND | April/May 2016 | www.horsearoundnm.com

name implies, the cheek is shaped like a D. Snaffles provide signal at both the corner of the mouth, the bars of the mouth, and give a push on the opposite side of the face. An offset D snaffle provides another pinch-free junction with the mouthpiece and a bigger surface area for the push.

A third and lesser used type of snaffle is the full cheek snaffle. Most snaffles are ridden with a loose curb strap, which keeps the opposite side cheek piece from pulling through a horse’s mouth. A full cheek snaffle prevents this from happening and thus can be ridden without a curb strap. It also provides the largest surface area for the push.

Snaffle Mouthpieces Within these three basic types of snaffles are found many mouthpieces: basic smooth-jointed; dog bones or French links; twisted wire or square mouthpieces;

tapered mouthpieces and/or bent mouthpieces, and; Mullen or solidmouthed.

The twisted wire bits or the square and twisted bits should be used with caution as they are only meant to lighten up a horse that is lugging on the snaffle and only used for a short period of time, until the horse starts paying attention.

There are also countless variations in cheeks, mouth pieces, and shapes of mouthpieces all claiming the “magic touch.� In my opinion, most are nothing but gimmicks that serve no useful purpose.

The Curb Bit Any bit that has shanks and uses a curb chain or strap to put pressure on the chin groove is a curb bit, regardless whether the mouthpiece is jointed or not. Many of the jointed bits that are marketed as reining snaffles are not snaffles, but jointed mouthpiece curbs. Curbs are to be used as a one-handed tool on a finished or faralong-enough horse that understands the different signals a curb gives -- signals such as indirect pressure, neck rein, leg and seat aids. It is not the bit to use in starting a young horse.

In the western world, typically a horse is ridden one handed in a curb leaving one hand free to handle the rope, grab the saddle horn, and hang on in the case of cutting. There are a variety of shank sizes and shapes as well as a wide variety of mouthpieces.

A few basic rules of thumb: the longer the shanks, the more leverage the bit has and consequently the more potential severity of the bit; the straighter the shanks the less signal that bit conveys to the horse before it engages.

Curb Mouthpieces The differences in mouthpieces are vast.

Jointed mouthpieces are usually, but not always, less severe and many times are used in transitioning a horse from the snaffle into the curb. Some even have the option of using the double rein to more clearly convey the signal to the horse.

Bits with ports from low to high allow the tongue to slip into the port and are described as having tongue relief. Keep in mind that this also allows the bars of the bit to rest on the sensitive bars of the mouth of the horse.

There are bits with flat high ports, bits with rollers to help pacify a horse, bits with ultra high, cathedral ports that aid in

Next Issue: Trail Riding

www.horsearoundnm.com | April/May 2016 | HORSE AROUND

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the placement of a horses head for certain events, and bits with ports that articulate and are billed as helping to lift a shoulder, etc. The combinations of both shank length, shape, and mouthpiece are endless.

Keep in mind they are all geared to be used one handed in horses far enough along to understand the signal they provide.

The Signal Bit The bits known as signal bits are the most misunderstood of any type of bit.

They are the spades, the halfbreeds, the Chileneo, the San Joaquin, Mona Lisa, and Salinas. They came with the Spanish through Mexico and into California, and with the Vaqueros and Buckaroos into the Great Basin of Nevada. They are typically handled one handed with a set of romal reins. Most people, when they first see these types of bits, are in awe of the mouthpieces and weight of the bits and the intricate art of the silver inlay or overlay on the cheeks. Most people ask why anyone would put such a bit in a horse’s mouth.

The answer is simple: They are the PhD of horsemanship for both horse and rider.

They are not used to start a colt but used on a horse that has gone through the learning process starting with a snaffle, doubled reined into the bosal, ridden for

several years in several ever lighter weights of bosals and then graduated through the two rein into any of these bits. They are truly the doctorate of horsemanship! They are called signal bits because they are, for the most part, loose jawed, and are used with heavy buttoned and rein chained romal reins, all of which provide a signal to the horse.

The curb chain is loosely adjusted and does not engage the chin groove. A horse is sensitive enough to feel a fly land on his back, so when a rider picks up on the reins, the chains send a signal that the horse feels through the bit and knows he is going to be asked to do something. These bits, by virtue of the shape of the mouthpiece and the weight of the bit, encourage the horse to pick up and carry the bit in the proper position.

A spade bitted horse with a working arch in his neck, working on a loose rein while moving a cow or sliding to a stop, is a beautiful sight to see!

Materials Used No article on bits would be complete without mentioning the materials used to make them and why they matter: stainless steel is pretty and easily cleaned but tends to dry out a horses mouth or at least

30 HORSE AROUND | April/May 2016 | www.horsearoundnm.com

does not encourage salivation; sweet iron rusts and produces a taste that horses like while encouraging salivation, producing a wet (soft) mouth; copper may produce a taste that some horses do not like, is soft so it can be chewed or scarred, but also promotes salivation and a wet, soft mouth.

There are other alloys out there that also serve well as mouthpiece material. My personal choice is a combination of sweet iron and copper. As for cheek pieces, the sky is the limit for materials used. I prefer heavy iron, silver inlayed, and engraved: pretty and functional as well.

One more tidbit of advice: if in doubt, consult a professional for help with selecting the best bit for your horse’s level of performance and training.

In the June/July issue of Horse Around New Mexico, I will write about English bits. __________________________________ Thomas Garcia is the owner of Spanish Creek Performance Horses and Taos Tack and Pet Supply. He can be reached at 575737-9798.

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EVENTS: April May ................. april

2

Liberty Foundations & Transitions Introductory

Susan Smith www.susansmithsantafe.com

Santa Fe Arrowhead Ranch

2-3

Schooling Show Carolyn Lindholm Clinic

New Mexico Dressage Association www.nmdressage.net

Bosque Farms Bosque Farms Rodeo Arena

3

Hunter/Jumper Show

Las Cruces Horseman’s Association www.lchanm.us

Las Cruces Isaacks Ranch

7, 14, 21

RiderFit -- Strengthen & Stretch for the Saddle

Land of Enchantment Equine Yoga equiyogi8@gmail.com

Los Ranchos de Albuquerque Orange Yoga

8-10

Spring Fling Horse Show

New Mexico Hunter Jumper Association Rush Shows 904-396-4106 or www.nmhja.org

Albuquerque New Mexico State Fairground

9, 23

Stock Horse Days Instruction in tracking, rating, etc.

Loal Tucker Horsemanship www.loaltucker.com or 505-466-3961

Lamy Loal Tucker Horsemanship

9

Schooling Show

All Breed Horse Show Association Cindy 575-760-4702 or Facebook ABHSA

Clovis Curry’s Stables

9-10

Point Show

New Mexico Buckskin Horse Association www.nmbha.com

Bosque Farms Bosque Farms Rodeo Arena

9-10

Gaited Horse Clinic

Anita Howe’s Gaited Horsemanship Colleen 505-384-1831

Estancia 4 Winds Equestrian Center

10

Horse Show

Pecos Valley Horsemen’s Association Amanda 575-714-0120 or Facebook

Roswell Pecos Valley Horsemen’s Arena

15-16

1st Annual Rawhide Days

Tucumcari Convention Center/Historical Museum www.facebook.com/tucumcarirawhidedays

Tucumcari Convention Center

16

Monthly Trail Ride

Taos Saddle Club Pam MacArthur 575-758-8366

Trails near Taos

16-17

Liberty and Riding Clinic

For The Heart of The Horse Sanctuary 505-474-5480 or www.fortheheartofthehorse.com

Santa Fe For The Heart of The Horse

17

English Show

Carlsbad Horseman's Association www.cha-nm.com

Carlsbad Sheriff’s Posse Arena

17

Minis, Pintos & All Breed

New Mexico Pinto Horse Association www.newmexicopinto.com

Bosque Farms Bosque Farms Rodeo Arena

20

Articles & Events Deadline June/July Issue

Articles: editor@horsearoundnm.com Events Calendar: eventshorsearound@gmail.com

It’s FREE to list your event!

22-25

Mark Russell Dressage Clinic

Lessons in Lightness: The Art of Educating the Horse Jeanie Olson at billjeanie.olson@gmail.com or 505-470-07

Lamy Jeanie and Bill Olson

23

Western Show

Carlsbad Horseman's Association www.cha-nm.com

Carlsbad Sheriff’s Posse Arena

23-24

Spring Salsa Sensation Show

New Mexico Appaloosa & Paint Horse Clubs www.NMApHC.info or www.nmpainthorse.org

Albuquerque New Mexico State Fairgrounds

23-24

Cloud High Horsemanship Clinic

John Baird Horsemanship / Rocking B Ranch Enterprises 575-824-5000

Capitan

23-24

Gymkhana

Las Cruces Horseman’s Association www.lchanm.us

Las Cruces Southern NM State Fairground

29-1

Classical Spanish Horsemanship Clinic

David Guerrero Garcia - Professional Dressage Rider from Spain Taos Tack & Pet Supply 575-737-9798

Arroyo Seco Morningstar Farm

30-14

April through May Saturday Liberty Classes

For The Heart of The Horse Sanctuary 505-474-5480 or www.fortheheartofthehorse.com

Santa Fe For The Heart of The Horse

32 30 HORSE AROUNDPoint | April/May 2016 | www.horsearoundnm.com Show All Breed Horse Show Association

Cindy 575-760-4702 or Facebook ABHSA

Clovis Curry’s Stables

may 5, 12, 19, 26

RiderFit -- Strengthen & Stretch for the Saddle

Land of Enchantment Equine Yoga equiyogi8@gmail.com

Los Ranchos de Albuquerque Orange Yoga

5

Ads Deadline June/July Issue

ads@horsearoundnm.com www.horsearoundnm.com

Please check our website for rates & details!

7

Horse Show

Pecos Valley Horsemen’s Association Amanda 575-714-0120 or Facebook

Roswell Pecos Valley Horsemen’s Arena

7, 21

Stock Horse Days Instruction in tracking, rating, etc.

Loal Tucker Horsemanship www.loaltucker.com or 505-466-3961

Lamy Loal Tucker Horsemanship

7-8

Working with the Equine Spine

Susan Smith www.susansmithsantafe.com

Santa Fe TBA

7-8

Pilates for Dressage Janice Dulac

New Mexico Dressage Association www.nmdressage.net

Bosque Farms Rodeo Arena

13-15

Animal Care and Behavior Symposium

Avian Ambassadors 505-349-5714 or www.avianambassadors.com

Albuquerque Marriott Uptown

14

Point Show

All Breed Horse Show Association Cindy 575-760-4702 or Facebook ABHSA

Clovis Curry’s Stables

14-15

English/Western Show

Carlsbad Horseman's Association www.cha-nm.com

Carlsbad Sheriff’s Posse Arena

14-15

Point Show

New Mexico Buckskin Horse Association www.nmbha.com

Bosque Farms Bosque Farms Rodeo Arena

15

15th Annual Fundraising Auction Luncheon

The Horse Shelter TheHorseShelter.org

Santa Fe The Horse Shelter

16-18

Introductory Extreme Trail Clinic with Mark Bolender

Barbara Windom 505-852-0444 www.laestanciaalegre.com

Alcalde La Estancia Alegre Ranch

20-22

Advanced Extreme Trail Clinic with Mark Bolender

Barbara Windom 505-852-0444 www.laestanciaalegre.com

Alcalde La Estancia Alegre Ranch

21-22

Liberty & Riding Clinic

For The Heart of The Horse Sanctuary 505-474-5480 or www.fortheheartofthehorse.com

Santa Fe For The Heart of The Horse

21

Monthly Trail Ride

Taos Saddle Club Pam MacArthur 575-758-8366

Trails near Taos

21

Horse Show

Lea County Horseman’s Association Johnna 575-390-5786 or Facebook

Lovington Jake McClure Arena

21

Horse Show

Desert Sun Equestrians Laurel 575-749-0910 or Facebook

Portales The Children’s Home

21-22

Gymkhana

Las Cruces Horseman’s Association www.lchanm.us

Las Cruces Southern NM State Fairground

21-22

Trainer’s Showcase

2nd Annual New Mexico Trainers Showcase & Horse Expo Colleen 505-384-1831 or www.4windsequestriancenter.com

Estancia 4 Winds Equestrian Center

22

Pinto, All Breed, Mules & Donkeys

New Mexico Pinto Horse Association www.newmexicopinto.com

Bosque Farms Bosque Farms Rodeo Arena

27-29

3-Day Horsemanship Clinic

John & Cat Parks Julia Jarvis 505-920-2488

Santa Fe HIPICO

27-30

Border Circuit Show

Southwest Quarter Horse Association Evelyn 575-551-2245 or www.swqha.com

Las Cruces Doña Ana County Fairgrounds

28-30

Horsemanship Clinic Essential Elements

Lee Smith Leiah 505-507-0424 or www.leesmithdiamonds.com

Estancia 4 Winds Equestrian Center

.................

To submit your event for listing consideration, send information to: EventsHorseAround@gmail.com. Listings are at no charge www.horsearoundnm.com | April/May 2016 | HORSE AROUND

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TrainerDIRECTORY ABQ Horse Breaking and Training For all your horse needs Albuquerque & Surrounding Areas 505.363.1023 ABQhorseBreaking@gmail.com

Morgan Equine Cynthia Morgan Santa Fe & surrounding areas 505.660.4505 cmorganequine@gmail.com

Bessie Babits San Cristobal 575.779.2466 sangredereyesandalusians.com

Rocking B Ranch Chapparal and other areas 575.824.500 RockingBRanch.org

Christina Savitsky Balance and body awareness Watrous, NM 505.280.8171 buckaroobalance.com

Rudy Lara, NSA Horsemandhip Cowboy dressage East Mountains 505.384.1831

Clint Mortenson Santa Fe 505.424.9230

Spanish Creek Performance Horses Thomas Garcia Taos 713.480.0088

Dennis Brazeal Colt starting/problem horses Bosque Farms 505.400.5492 www.dennisbrazeal.com Eric Bravo Aztec 505.553.5620 gnhbravo@msn.com www.ericbravo.horse Erlene Seybold-Smythe Horse training for all diciplines and levels Espanola 505.603.6016 erlene@roy-elmorgans.com For the Heart of the Horse Sanctuary Santa Fe 505.474.5480 Josh Armstrong Fine Reined Horses Reining/ranch riding Las Cruces 575.312.2291 Julie Philips, Starrynight Ranch All around training for all discipline levels 505.554.0577 jubileehorse.com Lia Jessen Show horses & all around performance horses Estancia 307.389.0875 foreverwestperformance.com Liz and Lee Manning Gaited horses Tijeras 505.238.5288/681.9896

Ta Willow Romero Mounted shooting horses/lessons Moriarty 505.699.7773 tawillowromero@gmail.com Terri Klein-Rakosky Judge/show prep Moriarty 336.240.3396 Thunder Jack Horse Training All around horse training Pecos 505.699.7773 curlybeau2050@gmail.com Toby Orona Albuquerque 505.573.9440 Total Horse Training, Laurie Boultinghouse East Mountains 505.974.7317 Troy A. Rogers Performance horses Belen 505.269.7318 Performancelivestock@live.com

ABQ HORSE BREAKING For the Heart of the Horse Sanctuary AND TRAININGLLC Connecting Horses and Humans Positive and Safe Tr a i n i n g Te c h n i q u e s

through the Arts of Liberty Training, Horsemanship and Dressage

For all your horse needs

Erica Hess and Joost Lammers Please visit our website or call us for info. www.fortheheartofthehorse.com 505-474-5480 Santa Fe, NM

Liz Sanchez Stables Albuquerque 505.898.1810 www.lizsanchezstables.com

ABQhorsebreaking@gmail.com

Loal Trucker Horsemanship Year-round instruction on live cattle Santa Fe 505.466.3961

Platinum Performance Horses

Lynn Clifford 505.231.5353 www.lynnclifford.com Margret Henkels Conformational balancing Santa Fe 505.501.2290 equinenm.com

505.363.1023

Showing, Training, Lessons

“Where tomorrow’s CHAMPIONS are training Clinicstoday.” & Workshops: Equine www.SusanSmithSantaFe.com Balance MARIAHBody WILSON info@SusanSmithSantaFe.com 505-480-6000 www.platinumhorses.com, Albuquerque NM (TM) is informed

and shaped by Equine Ortho-

Bionomy and Equine Positional

505-501-2478

Release (EPR). This gentle, but

effective, non-force approach uses

elements of healing that are in concert with the body’s natural tendencies.

Liberty Foundations begin without tack to bring horse and human to deep working connection. Private lessons

Individual work: 34 HORSE AROUND | April/May 2016 | www.horsearoundnm.com Horse & Rider Integration

sessions are

available mounted or unmounted, for those who want to experience bodywork with a specific focus on riding.

Morgan Equine Cynthia Morgan Santa Fe & surrounding areas

Native American training techniques 505.660.4505 cmorganequine@gmail.com

The

YARD

“A Feed Store & More!”

Next to the 66 Station in Pecos.

Stop by on your way to Jack’s Creek Campground.

Grass hay, alfalfa, & grain Campfire wood Landscaping & building materials : ll Ca Elias 3 1 r 0 o a -0 Rit -470 5 50

2016 Clubs&ASSOCIATIONS Arabian Horse Association of New Mexico www.nmarab.com

New Mexico Paint Horse Club www.nmpainthorse.org

Back Country Horsemen of New Mexico www.bchnm.org

NM Palomino Exhibitors Association www.nmpea.com

Buffalo Range Riders Mounted www.brrmounted.com

New Mexico Quarter Horse Association www.nmqha.com

CHAMP - Corrales Horse & Mule People www.champnm.com

Northern NM Horsemen’s Association nnmha@live.com

Chuck Wagon Trail Riders of New Mexico chuckwagontrailriders.com

Rio Grande Mule and Donkey www.rgmda.com

Enchantment Driving Society www.enchantmentds.com

Sangre de Cristo Horseman’s Association

Equine Protection Fund www.equineprotectionfund.org

facebook.com/Sangre de Cristo Horseman’sAssociation

Equine Spirit Sancutary www.equinespiritsanctuary.org

Santa Fe County Horse Coalition www.santafehorse.com

High Desert Riders www.highdesertriders.com

Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Posse

Jicarilla Mustang Heritage Alliance jicarillamustangs.org

facebook.com/pages/Santa-Fe-County-Sheriffs-Posse

Listening Horse Therapeutic Riding www.listeninghorse.org

Single Action Shooting Society www.sassnet.com

Loving Thunder Therapeutic Riding www.lovingthunder.com

Taos Saddle Club facebook.com/Taos Saddle Club

New Mexico Bucksin Horse Association www.nmbha.com 505-869-9198

The Bosque Farms Rodeo Association bosquefarmsrodeo.org

New Mexico Center for Therapeutic Riding 505-471-2000 www.nmctr.org

The Horse Shelter 505-471-6179 www.thehorseshelter.org

New Mexico Dressage Association www.nmdressage.net

San Juan Valley Trail Riders www.NATRC.org

New Mexico Gay Rodeo Association www.nmgra.org

Tularosa Nat’l Horsemanship Fellowship

New Mexico Horse Council 505-345-8959 nmhorsecouncil.org

facebook.com/TularosaHorsemenFellowship

NM Appaloosa Horse Club www.nmaphc.info

San Juan Valley Trail Riders www.NATRC.org

NM Mustang and Burro Association nmmustangs@gmail.com

Walkin in Circles NM Horse Rescue www.wncr.org

NSA HORSEMANSHIP No Strings Attached Horsemanship

Rudy Lara, Clinician - Rudy Lara Jr, Clinician

TRAINING IS TRUST-TRUST IN YOURSELF - TRUST IN YOUR HORSE

JOIN THE NSA TEAM

505-384-3238 * 575-404-5289 www.nsahorsemanship.com nsa@qwestoffice.net

Rudy Lara and Regalo Cowboy Dressage 2015 Top Hand Competition

Rudy Lara and Rudy Lara, Jr Big Red Ball Training Building Trust between horse and Rider

Riding lessons will only take you so far. NSA’s goal is to give riders lifelong skills and understanding so they experience success wherever their equine journey may take them.

Now doing private sessions at 4 Winds Equestrian Center For more information go to: www.4windsequestriancenter.com

Rudy Lara with Regalo - La Garrocha demo

36 HORSE AROUND | April/May 2016 | www.horsearoundnm.com

Rudy Lara Jr - learn from the best -versatile in Ranch Roping and trick roping

www.horsearoundnm.com | April/May 2016 | HORSE AROUND

37

HORSE SERVICES DIRECTORY

Listed here are horse-related services provided by the April/May advertisers. They are experts in their fields. Many of the business owners are also horse owners and enthusiasts. They are the reason Horse Around New Mexico magazine exists and why the magazine is growing. If you enjoy this free publication, please show your support by supporting our advertisers.

BARNS/BUILDINGS Ironhorse Pipe & Steel, page 12 Morton Buildings, page 9 CLINICS Classical Spanish Horsemanship with David Guerro Garcia, page 2 John & Cat Parks 3-Day Clinic, page 31 Loal Tucker Stock Horse Days, page 35 Rider Fit, page 37 BOARDING Mac’s Overnight Stables, page 37 EVENTS AERC Endurance Ride, page 31

The Horse Shelter Fundraising Auction Luncheon, page 27 New Mexico Trainer Showcase & Horse Expo, page 6 Tucumcari Rawhide Days, page 23

PHOTOGRAPHY/ART L. Thayer Hutchinson, page 13 Ozana Photography, page 35

FEED/SUPPLEMENTS Horse Sense Solutions, page 9

SPECIALTY SERVICES Albuquerque Pet Memorial Service, page 10

GUEST RANCHES Starrynight Ranch, page 18 U-Trail’s, page 18

TACK AND FEED STORES Hitch’n Post Feed, page 13 Horsemen’s, page 27 Miller’s Feed, page 12 Paul’s Veterinarian Supply, page 24 Taos Tack and Pet Supply, page 30 The Yard Yard, page 35 Village Mercantile, page 22

HORSE/HUMAN ORGS. Loving Thunder Therapeutic Riding, page 31 MASSAGE Medicine Massage, page 7

REAL ESTATE Annette Wood, page 8

38 HORSE AROUND | April/May 2016 | www.horsearoundnm.com

TRAILERS Sandia Trailer Sales and Service, page 40 TRAINING Albquerque Horse Breaking and Training, page 38 For The Heart of The Horse Sanctuary, page 5 Morgan Equine, page 10 NSA Horsemanship, Rudy Lara, page 36 Susan Smith, page 39 VEHICLE Amerian Diesel Service, page 29 VETERINARIAN Santa Sophia Equine, page 13 Western Trails, page 22

Clinics & Workshops: Equine Body Balance (TM) is informed and shaped by Equine OrthoBionomy and Equine Positional Release (EPR). This gentle, but effective, non-force approach uses elements of healing that are in concert with the body’s natural tendencies.

Liberty Foundations begin without tack to bring horse and human to deep working connection. Private lessons

Individual work: Horse & Rider Integration sessions are available mounted or unmounted, for those who want to experience bodywork with a specific focus on riding.

Ortho-Bionomy sessions for you or your horse, with primary focus on healing from within: postural, acute and chronic injuries.

For more information see: www.susansmithsantafe.com info@susansmithsantafe.com 505-501-2478

Come See Our 1435 Route 66, Latest Edgewood, NM 87015

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Trade-Ins & Buy Your Honey a Trailer for Christmas!

New 2014 Hoosier, “Sandia Mountain Special Edition” 3-Horse LQ SALE $35,965

New 2014 S&H Contender 6'8" Tall x 6'6" Wide 3-Horse Gooseneck $9,960

WE RENT HORSE TRAILERS!

New 2016 Cimarron Norstar VP New 2014 4-Horse LQ 1435 Route 66 sales@sandiatrailer.com (505)281-9860 2-Horse Gooseneck MSRP: with Out. Retail $50,000 Edgewood, NM 87015 www.sandiatrailer.com Slide (800)832-0603 $29,763 Our Price: $23,238 CLEARANCE PRICE $42,900

New 2015 Diamond T Gooseneck Single Wheel Deck-Over102” X 20’ 16,000 GVWR $6,606

New 2015 Logan Rampage 2-Horse Bumper Slant Load Retail $17,750 Our Price: $16,332

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New Arrivals

Used 2015 Titan Classic 6.5’ X 24’ Gooseneck Stock $12,7555

New 2015 Logan Warmblood 2-Horse Straight Load Retail $24,700 Our Price: $23,209

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50 new & used horse trailers: www.sandiatrailer.com 505.281.9860

Check out our inventory of

over www.horsearoundnm.com | Nov/Dec 2015 | HORSE AROUND