Rocky Springs Ranch, LLC
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New Save-A-Horse Program Started in the Valley By Joan Kibler, Editor Her lifelong love of horses goes so deep that she can’t bear to see one of God’s creatures cast aside because it’s no longer wanted. “Horses are such ‘giving’ creatures,” said Claudia Swisher, owner of Rocky Springs Ranch, LLC. “Handled correctly, they will do just about anything to please their human. “Unfortunately, though, some horses are tossed aside because they’re not the right fit for their owner. Perhaps the owner is inexperienced and fell off the horse, and now the owner is afraid. Or perhaps the horse is not right for what the owner wants to do. Or perhaps the horse has a behavior problem that the owner can’t solve. “And then there are hardship cases. Maybe the owner must move, or the owner becomes too ill to continue caring for the horse. Maybe the horse was part of a school program, and the school closed with nowhere to place the horse.
Spring/Summer 2017 - Vol. 4, No. 1 “Sometimes these unwanted horses are taken to a sale where they may go for slaughter. Or they are euthanized. There are good horses that just end up in a bad situation.” This heartbreaking situation has prompted Claudia and her husband Tom to start up a nonprofit Save-A-Horse program. “This program is different from an equine rescue program in that we will not take horses that fit into the categories of cruelty, abuse or starvation,” Claudia said. “The equine rescue operations typically get these types of referrals through law enforcement or animal control agencies. For our Save-A-Horse program, we will take animals referred through private individuals, veterinarians or animal health clinics.” Claudia said that the horses taken into the Save-A-Horse program will be evaluated for their medical and training needs. “With some retraining and a little diagnosis to solve any medical issues, our plan is to get these horses going well and then match them to the right person or farm for a long constructive life. Perhaps they could be used in schools, veteran programs, 4-H projects, and forever homes.” The Swishers are starting this program at their ranch in Gore, with plans to use specific paddocks and sheds for the incoming horses. They will keep these horses – and this nonprofit operation – separate from their lesson horses and boarders’ horses. “We’re looking for support from horseloving people who want to help with feeding, caring for, grooming, mucking, and retraining these horses,” Claudia said. “If you can’t provide hands-on help, there are many opportunities to volunteer, such as serving on a committee, fundraising, and doing public relations. We envision that, in time, we may need foster homes for the horses.”
When his jumping career ended, the Swishers took in Shamrock and used him to teach beginners to ride on the flat. He loved the camera and liked to stick out his tongue. His rider, Faye, however, wasn’t fond of the camera.
Continued on page 3
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Rocky Springs HORSE NEWS
Page 1 New Save-A-Horse Program Started in the Valley
Spring/Summer 2017
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8
Cinch and Saddle Sores: Treat and Prevent These Maladies An Interview with Marjorie Youngs, Founder of BRCTH
12 The Valley of Tears, Chapter 3
Vol. 4, No. 1
Publisher/Designer … Claudia Swisher Editor ………………. Joan Kibler Rocky Springs HORSE NEWS is distributed on Issuu, Facebook and Twitter. Copies are free to the public. Contact the Publisher to have copies available at your place of business.
15 The Search to Find the Right Stable 16 Directory Listings 17
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HORSE NEWS/3 New Save-A-Horse Program Started in the Valley Continued from Page 1 This initiative is a formalization of a program that the Swishers have done for years. A recent experience prompted the Swishers to act. “I witnessed some fine horses that were up for adoption, but if they weren’t adopted, they would be euthanized,” Claudia said. “I left, wondering what I could do to help them. I simply can’t see them die for no good reason. “After discussion with my family and close friends, we agreed that establishing a nonprofit to save these horses, and others like them, is the right thing to do. “Tom and I have taken in many horses and ponies throughout our 40 years of operation,” she continued. “Some had little chance of life if we had not taken them in. After medical evaluation and training, all had a great life here or with new owners. We found the right niche for them, with the right owner, but it took a lot of our time, money, and sometimes heartache to do it. We always felt good about taking care of these horses.” The Swishers have established a GoFundMe account for the start-up costs, legal fees, State Corporation Commission filing, acquiring 501(c)(3) status, developing the program, training volunteers, and costs of care for the horses. They also have an interim board of directors.
The first horses are expected in April. “With some help from our friends and other equine enthusiasts, we can make a difference,” Claudia said. If you are interested in helping, contact the Swishers at 540858-3090 or rsr.cswisher@gmail.com. If you want to donate, go to https://www.gofundme.com/saveahorse-program-startup?utm_source=internal&utm_medium=email&utm_conte nt=cta_button&utm_campaign=upd_n.
Wish List
10-foot gates, two or more 12-foot corral panels, four to eight Round pen, 50-to-60 feet with a ridethrough 4-feet or 6-feet gate section Feed buckets Water tank Grooming tools Storage shed Waterproof turnout sheets and blankets Gravel for footing Bedding Sand for round pen
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Cinch and Saddle Sores – Treat and Prevent These Maladies By Cheryl L. Detamore, DVM Cinch and saddle sores are as old as dirt, literally. But with good horsemanship and a little extra care, we can make them a thing of the past. I'll tell you what they are and how to recognize them; then I'll give you a treatment guideline and prevention hints. Definition Cinch and saddle sores result from trauma inflicted by tack to contact points on the trunk and withers. Essentially, they're ulcers that develop from prolonged pressure over small surface areas, most commonly over the withers or loins and behind the elbows. Initially, inflamed areas are swollen and tender. The skin and hair generally are intact, but a pocket of serum forms under the skin. With continued trauma, the hair is chafed away and the skin becomes ulcerated. Once the skin is disturbed, infection ensues if the horse is continually used. Staphylococcus, a common skin and environmental contaminant, is the most prevalent source. Sores that become infected don't heal well and can lead to permanent tissue damage. Once healed, most saddle and cinch sores result in leukotrichia, a form of scarring that results in loss of skin and hair pigment. Affected horses exhibit patches of depigmented skin, with white hairs over the site of the insult. Generally speaking, random white spots over the tack areas of solid-colored horses are due to damage from sores.
Causes Ill-fitting tack is the most common cause of saddle and cinch sores. Not only uncomfortable for the horse, it causes irritation and injury to soft tissues. Loose tack is dangerous
for both horse and rider: a saddle that slips or turns presents the most experienced rider with a difficult predicament and is even more cumbersome to the horse. Loose equipment with excessive movement results in friction burns, while tack that's excessively tight or restricting produces pressure sores. Wrinkled or pinched skin, most common in the girth area, is particularly uncomfortable for the horse and quickly results in sores. Dirty tack is another common culprit. Tack composition, combined with a barn environment, invites organic debris. Dirt and hay stick to the contact surfaces of saddles, pads, and cinches. These particles, no matter how small, cause irritation. Worn equipment or pieces that've been shoddily repaired also can produce sores. Incorrect riding posture is another cause of cinch and saddle sores. And, of course, thin horses are prone to sores. Treatment The quicker the pressure areas are recognized, the easier they are to treat. Inflamed areas, with skin intact, benefit from ice therapy in the early stages. Apply ice to curtail inflammation and prevent seromas. Hold ice in place for 20 minutes every few hours for the first two days; use coldwater therapy on subsequent days. Diaper rash ointment (zinc oxide) is effective in drying and protecting minor abrasions. An older sore, where the skin is broken, requires more aggressive treatment. Begin by clipping the margins of the wound; hair that crusts over the lesion impairs the healing process. When clipping, take measures to prevent loose hair from contaminating the wound. Clean the wound with saline. (Never use any iodine-based solution on broken skin.) Avoid scrubbing the surface; instead, gently clean it with soft gauze before applying an antibacterial ointment like MeliHeal. Avoid powders and sprays. Bandaging and systemic antibiotics aren't necessary.
HORSE NEWS/5 Continue to apply MeliHeal twice daily until healed. Note the sore's progress each time you treat it. If it spreads, consult a veterinarian immediately. Regardless of severity, don't use your horse until the sore is healed completely and all hair is grown back. Hair acts as a shock absorber and protects delicate skin tissue. Keep in mind that sore areas, even when healed, are prone to recurring inflammation. For that reason, correct pressure problems before using your horse again. Prevention Without a doubt, cinch and saddle sores are easier to prevent than treat. Taking a few simple measures before you ride prevents a headache afterward. Brush your horse before every ride, paying special attention to the saddle and cinch areas. Brush with the grain of the hair, making sure to remove any mud, hay or grit. Check the contact surfaces of all tack for irregular wear or debris. This applies to bridles and breast collars, too. Inspect and clean your tack regularly, replacing anything that's abrasive. Cover and store tack in a clean area. Ensure your tack is appropriately sized for your horse. Make sure your pad or blanket and saddle are placed correctly; avoid ruffling the hair and smooth out any wrinkles under the saddle. Tack shouldn't be too tight or excessively loose. If uncertain whether your tack is appropriate for your horse and its intended use, check with a qualified trainer.
Girths in the wrong place or at an angle can rub your horse.
Resist the urge to rush through the cinching process. Some horses are anxious and hold their breath when you tighten the cinch, which might need to be adjusted after the horse releases the pent-up air. Initially, fasten the cinch somewhat loosely. Then stretch both front legs forward, so that the skin behind the elbows is pulled taut. This removes skin wrinkles and prevents pinching. It also shifts the saddle into the correct position. Walk your mount around a bit and tighten the cinch again. After riding several minutes, you might need to dismount and tighten a third time. Examine your horse after each ride or workout. After removing the girth and saddle pad, note any abnormal sweating patterns that result from incorrect fit. Run your hands over your horse's body, checking the saddle and tack areas for discomfort or swelling. If you have concerns about saddle fit or weight distribution, consult a saddle-fitting specialist. Horses used for certain kinds of work might have excessive pressure on specific areas. Familiarize yourself with these issues, as well as any breed characteristics or conformation defects that might predispose your horse to sores. An ounce of prevention truly is worth a pound of cure. Still, cinch and saddle sores are much too common. Taking a lackadaisical approach to treatment can result in more time out of the saddle and, much worse, irreversible damage. And no one wants to be sidelined when it's time to hit the trail.
Claudia Swisher shows what to look for in proper saddle and girth placement.
_________________________________________________________________________________________ Dr. Cheryl L. Detamore specializes in Equine Integrative Medicine, practicing nearly two decades in Kentucky, Virginia, and West Virginia. She now resides in Kansas, where she produces her all-natural, honey-based healing salve, MeliHeal. She is available for phone consultations at (888) IX RANCH.
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Lessons, boarding and training are just part of our services for the horseman. We also do tack and saddle repairs and saddle fitting. We are proud to carry Meliheal in our shop along with many other fine products and supplements for your horse. Located at 116 Pinetop Rd., Gore, VA 22637 540-858-3090 or visit us on Facebook and like our page.
HORSE NEWS/7
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An Interview with Marjorie Youngs, Founder of BRCTH By Joan Kibler, Editor Marjorie Youngs founded the Blue Ridge Center for Therapeutic Horsemanship (BRCTH) in 2006, and the nonprofit began serving students in 2007. She holds a master’s degree in education, with a focus on students with special needs. Her professional background, along with being a lifelong equestrian, make her the perfect fit for offering therapeutic riding services in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia and nearby West Virginia counties. Ms. Youngs has been involved with therapeutic riding since 1987 and is a certified riding instructor with the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH).
Margie Youngs assists a student with mounting Classy.
Q: What motivated you to start the nonprofit therapeutic riding center?
Q: How do students become enrolled in riding sessions and day camps?
In 2006, there were no therapeutic riding centers between Leesburg and Staunton, and more specifically, no centers that were serving the northern Shenandoah Valley. After serving as president of the Therapeutic Riding Association of Virginia for seven years, I resigned with the intention of starting a local program, and BRCTH was incorporated in 2006. We served our first students in two short pilot programs in 2007.
Students are referred for services via word of mouth, and increasingly frequently, by physicians, other healthcare
Q: How has BRCTH changed in 10 years? BRCTH has evolved to offer both therapeutic riding and equine-facilitated learning which focuses on psychosocial learning. We serve children and adults with wide-ranging disabling conditions in spring and fall sessions and during summer day camps. We have five therapy horses and ponies, and dozens of dedicated and compassionate volunteers donate thousands of hours of their time every year. We employ five instructors, each with her unique training and experience, to instruct more students each year. And our budget is ten-fold what it was in 2007.
providers, and social service agencies. People can access information about our services through the BRCTH and PATH websites and through our Facebook page. The registration process can involve input from parents, teachers, physicians, and other healthcare providers. A certified instructor then evaluates the student and develops goals and objectives unique to that student. When students are taught in small groups, group-focused social goals may also be developed. Anyone interested in therapeutic riding or equine-facilitated learning should contact me via phone or email. Installment plans for tuition payments are available, and scholarships are available for those with financial needs. We accept students referred through eligible government agencies. Q: How does therapeutic riding and the equine learning program help the student? The activity of horseback riding moves the rider’s body in such a way that the rider may show improvement in flexibility, muscle strength and balance. Grooming and other horse-handling activities focus on sequencing, planning, and developing relationships with the horse or pony and with the human helpers. Cognitive benefits may include improvements in attention, concentration, and judgment. Unmounted activities with the horse may show the student how his or her behavior affects those around them and can lead to improved self-image and interactions with others. Our mission is to help people learn and heal through therapeutic interaction with the horse.
HORSE NEWS/9 Q: Tell me about your instructors and the instructional team.
chores, transporting horses, delivering hay and feed, and setting up for special events and shows.
Our instructors are all certified through the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship. They have strong equestrian backgrounds and diverse experience teaching children and adults with special needs. We work diligently to keep the student paired with the same instructional team, which includes the instructor, the equine, the horse leader, and side walkers throughout the session. This consistency helps to create an environment for learning and growing that meets the student’s individual needs. Our horses and ponies are highly trained, tolerant, and well-matched to their roles as our therapeutic partners.
There’s always a need for help with fundraising. We host a range of events, such as bingo and fun painting events, product sales, and equine-related events. There can never be too much help when it comes to raising awareness and funds for this worthy cause, and we welcome your ideas and participation. In 2016, 36 volunteers donated 1,485 hours to support our operations at the farm alone. Their generosity humbles me.
Q: What volunteer opportunities are available at BRCTH? There are so many opportunities to serve: you can be handson with the students and equines, or you can donate your talents to improve our facilities, or you may help with administrative and fundraising tasks. We are always looking for volunteers to be horse leaders and side walkers. Those are two different jobs. A horse leader should have experience with horses. Side walkers do not need equine experience because that position requires that they focus on the student – particularly his or her safety. Our volunteers help students, take care of the equines, and keep our equipment and facilities orderly. All volunteers are introduced to BRCTH operations through an orientation and hands-on training. The riding center has benefitted from volunteer work from groups and private individuals on many occasions, as well. As recent examples, American Woodmark employees installed a signpost at our entrance and created a memorial garden for our equines who have passed, and a few folks constructed a new mounting platform. And many times over the years, private individuals have helped with barn
Q: Where does your funding come from? We have four sources of income: contributions, grants, fundraising activities, and tuition. Each source is important for helping us to meet our annual operating budget of approximately $50,000. Q: How is BRCTH managed? BRCTH operates under established Articles of Incorporation and bylaws. While I serve as the Executive Director for all program activities, the Board of Directors is responsible for the business of the riding center. We encourage interested people to participate in meetings or serve on the Board. More hands make lighter work! And more people bring greater diversity – in in thought, talent, service, and experience – and strengthen our nonprofit. Q: What goals does BRCTH have over the next few years? Over the next two years, BRCTH intends to begin providing equine-facilitated psychotherapy services, programming for veterans, programs for children and families of domestic neglect and abuse, and services for the elderly in our community. Contact information: Marjorie Youngs, Executive Director, BRCTH 540-533-2777 Mailing address: P.O. Box 438, Boyce, Va. 22620 Farm location: 644 Lime Marl Lane, Millwood, Va. 22646 www.brcth.org www.facebook/BRCTH
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The Valley of Tears By Taylor Swisher
“Yeah,” Puma said, “says the one walking on it like it’s nothing.” He laughed as they reached the bank of the lake. Strike pricked his ears again. He could hear the yapping still, but it was louder than before.
Chapter 3. “Strike, can we stop? My feet are killing me and I’m no longer brown. I’m white, Strike, I’ve been sweating that much!” Strike peered back at his friend; he hadn’t realized that they had been traveling that long. He looked up at the sun and stopped. Puma pulled beside of him, nosing his shoulder, “Don’t worry. We’ll find her.” Strike shook his head but continued walking; they couldn’t stop, he couldn’t stop. Every day they travelled, the brighter the sun glowed. It had to mean they were getting close. Strike cantered up a small hill and balked at the top. “Well, this is a bit of a road block.” In front of him was a dark, bleak forest where the trees towered over them. They were so high he could barely see beyond them. The two stallions looked at each other and back at the forest. “Okay, let’s run through our list. And Puma, make sure it is IN your saddle bag. Food?” Strike called. “Check.” “Map?” “Check.” “Flare?” “Check.” Strike nodded, and the two of them began to slide down the hill towards the dark abyss. As they drew closer, the dirt beneath their hooves turned to a thick, sopping mud. Puma stopped beside him, his ears forward; Strike did the same. Coming from a deeper part of the forest was a high-pitched yapping sound. Puma looked at him questionably. Strike considered the now rising fog; there was no way to get across the lake of mud. Unless…Strike lifted a black hoof and placed it on the mud. It turned to ice! “Puma, stay close to me.” With each step he took, the ground below turned to thick sheets of ice. Strike found that it was simple for him to walk on the ice, but his poor friend was having quite the time. He reached down, grabbing a clump of Puma’s mane in his teeth and pulled him up. “This is harder than it looks, buddy.”
They trotted slowly through the trees and came around a bend to find millions of dark creatures. They moved and they changed. They were not just any creatures; they were Chamafauna. Chamafauna could change into a horse’s greatest desire and use it to lure him into a fatal trap. Eight noticed Strike and came slithering up to him. Puma began to walk over to the fallen tree in which they were all targeting. The Chamafaunas in front of Strike began to change and he closed his eyes, wondering what they were going to transform into. His mom? His dad? But when he opened his eyes there was someone he wanted very bad: “Tear.” They had made an exact reflection of her. Her ocean eyes, her cream and white coat, even her hooves were the right color, and they didn’t leave out the wings. Was he thinking about her that much? Suddenly, a sharp pain went through Strike with needlesharp teeth. He looked down to see a small, cute creature. Puma came galloping full speed at him, shouting “Run!” Strike didn’t hesitate as he bent down, taking the creature in his teeth and placing her in his saddle bag. He reared on his hind legs and began to gallop as fast as he could go. They came to another lake, and Puma looked at him. “How fast can you make an ice bridge?” “Let’s find out!” he said as he began to gallop across the mud. Rapidly the mud became ice, and Puma this time had no trouble keeping up. They turned to see the Tear imposter coming towards them. It walked slowly, and Strike looked at the ice at his feet. “Forgive me,” he yelled and brought both front hooves crashing down on the ice. On contact the ice began to split into shards, sending the imposter splashing into the deep mud. He turned away, but it killed him inside. A small bark came from his bag, and the creature peered up at him with big brown eyes. She had brown spots on all four legs that turned into black spots, then she was solid white, black, and brown. He turned his black head to look at Puma. “What should we call her?” “What?” Strike smiled. “We need to name her, since she’s going to be riding along with us. What do you think?” Puma tilted his head from side to side. “How about, Totally Terrifying Thing?”
HORSE NEWS/13 Strike laughed as they walked down a stone road. Strike looked back at their nameless pet. She was sitting with her front paws hanging out the side, her tongue just hanging in the wind. “What about Jazmin and Jazz for short?” Puma pranced in place. “Oh, I like it. Jazz the Totally Terrifying Thing.” They laughed, and the sun above glowed brighter. Meanwhile… The market place was busy, and horses kept running into her wings causing ripples of pain. Apache led her through towers of buildings making her feel much like an ant under a Clydesdale’s hoof. As they trotted through the main streets, she had realized her father had been quite silent. “Are you okay?” He huffed at her and kept walking. Why was he ignoring her? Had she done something wrong? “Does it have to do with what I did to the Snither?” Apache stopped in front of her and blew. “Yes, it has everything to do with what you did to that thing. I’m upset because you have a power that literally drains the evil from something and the raging fire of the sun at your hoof tips, and now I have another mystery about you to solve.” Tear dipped her head. She hadn’t mean to harm the snither; it was just instincts. “Stay here,” he said, trotting away, “and don’t get into trouble.” She nodded and walked over to an old, wooden wagon where a blind mare was laying. She was a black and white Gypsy Vanner with a long flowing mane that reached down to her knees. “Can I help you, young Pegasus?” Tear jumped back; how did she know she was there? “Hi, this may be a weird question, but have you seen a brown Pegasus?” The mare laughed and stood up on her hooves. Slowly, she walked over to a crystal ball, “This will tell you where they are and what they have with them. Just say a name.” Tear took a deep breath knowing that she shouldn’t be spying, but she couldn’t help it. “Apache.” The ball began to turn a deep purple, then it showed her father. He was in a hallway of some sort with someone else, but she couldn’t tell who the mystery horse was. The ball faded back to its clear color and she
found the mare’s faded eyes staring at her. “I’ll let you look at one more time. Your choice.” Tear felt a stab in her heart. “Strike,” she said. The ball turned a starburst red, and she saw a brown stallion come over a green hill, turn his head and yell up to someone on the hill. Soon Strike came into view, his black head held high and her heart melted. She wanted to see him, but had no clue to where he was. Suddenly, loud neighs came from the other horses around her as a little creature came tearing through the crowd. Her father was at her side and flared his wings, baring his teeth. She spun around, running as fast as she could. Horses were too tight together to give her space to take off. She was running so fast that she didn’t see the brown stallion running right at her. They collided, and a familiar voice came out of him, “Ouch, why is it always me getting hit?” “Puma!” Tear shouted, and the stallion rolled over onto his feet. “Why are you here?” He laughed and pawed the ground, “We’re looking for you.” It took her back, we, who else was with him? But before she could ask, a loud yapping noise erupted from the roof of the building. She looked up to find the little creature barking noisily. “Jazz, get down from there! Oh, I knew Strike should have just waited outside the market. He could get you down.” Tear thought for a moment then opened one of her wings, reaching it up towards the roof. Jazz stepped on it and she gently furled her wing again. The animal began biting her feathers, and Puma reached up to take Jazz off her back. “Sorry, she chews,” Puma said. She laughed, and it made her feel good to know that her friends were here. She looked around, trying to find Strike in the crowd, but he was nowhere to be seen. Tear lowered her head and her wings dropped down her sides. Suddenly an icy breath went down her neck, then another and another. She looked down at her coat, and small pieces of snow fell on it. Tear turned her head and looked at him. Strike was taller and wider in the shoulders than he was the last time she had seen him, but now he looked more like a stallion than he did a colt. She hadn’t realized that tears had begun to fall from her eyes, and Strike reached out and nosed her cheek. He draped his large head over hers and she closed her eyes. He had trekked all the way out here to find her and now he wasn’t sure if he could stand losing her again.
14/HORSE NEWS Meanwhile, back at the palace. “Queen Sundrop, soldiers from the east say they have seen the Pegasus. They report that the filly is growing in strength as we speak. What are your orders?” She stared out the tall window, gazing at the land that lay beyond her palace walls. “Ruffian?” “Yes, Your Majesty?” The Queen turned her head to her advisor. “Do you know what two powers can take on darkness alone?” Ruffian shook his head. “I do not, ma’am.”
“Love and Light. Together they are unstoppable, but I took care of that chance when I killed my sister. I didn’t, however, kill her before she had her filly.” She turned back to Ruffian. “It is unfair that my sister got to be a Pegasus and not me. The Power of Light was my mother’s power that she passed on to a descendant of our family. And it has fallen into the hooves of a Pegasus filly. Ruffian!” He came forward. “Yes, ma’am?” “Tell the guards to find that filly and destroy her before she gains full control of her powers and starts some kind of rebellion.” She smiled and turned back to the window. Sundrop looked down at her coat and found it changing from its golden cream color to a deep black. The darkness of her powers was taking over her. “And Ruffian,” she said as he came beside her, dipping his head, “Bring me Quill.” She gazed into the fireplace and smiled in a cruel, menacing way, “It’s about time my niece and I had a discussion.” To be continued…watch for more chapters in “The Valley of Tears.” Chapter 1 can be found in the Spring/Summer 2016 edition, and chapter 2 in the Fall/Winter 2016 edition of Horse News.
Taylor Swisher is the 13-year-old daughter of Gary Swisher and Robin Shewbridge Barnhart and the granddaughter of Tom and Claudia Swisher. She responded to a previous issue of Horse News, which encouraged youngsters to submit artwork or a story.
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The Search to Find the Right Stable By Claudia J. Swisher, Publisher As the weather starts to warm and your thoughts turn to horseback riding, you will need to search for the right place. This is particularly important if you are learning to ride or your children want to learn to ride. Your safety is the most important aspect of riding, followed by having a stable that’s close and affordable. Don’t base your cost decision solely on the lowest price, though. You might discover that the best place may be further away and cost a little more, but it might save you money overall if you get the results you want and have a great experience. It’s never a good experience for a beginner rider to start over because of poor instruction or an unsafe horse at a barn offering bargain rates. When you reach out to the owner or manager of a stable, ask if: They teach the type lessons you are interested in, such as English or Western. They work extensively with beginner, youth, and adults (whomever it is you are seeking instruction for). Their horses are safe and well-schooled. You can watch some lessons before you sign up. Call several places and set up times to visit all of them. When you visit, observe the cleanliness and orderliness of the facilities, equipment and pastures. Look at the horses to see if they are well fed and healthy looking. Judge whether you feel comfortable there. If you feel uncomfortable or they do not answer your questions willingly, it might just be a bad day for them or it could mean it is not the right place for you. If you are uncertain, don’t just visit them once but ask to visit a few times before making up your mind. Compare the stables you’ve visited, and choose the one that best suits your needs and provides the right comfort level for you. Try a few lessons, and if you aren’t satisfied, try someplace else. You do not have to stay with a program that is not meeting your needs or is uncomfortable. If you’re a horse owner and need a barn, the same advice goes for boarding. Check the place out. Ask for references. Talk to the veterinarian and the farrier they use. Make sure the boarding facility can handle you and your horse’s needs. If you need lessons or training, find out if they offer those with a professional or if they let you bring in yours. Visit and talk with the other boarders.
When looking for a stable for occasional trail riding, look for one that is a well-known and safe place with their own land to ride on or that has permission to ride on the neighbor’s farms and land. Again, get references. Visit the facility and look for: The horses should be in good weight and health. The tack should be tidy and in good repair. The farm should have a guide who is knowledgeable and will not let you run wild on a horse you don’t know. The guide should give you adequate instructions on how to ride the horse you are given and make sure you can handle it before going out. It’s a red flag if any of these are negative! If you are looking to purchase, then educate yourself first about horse care, handling and riding. Don’t buy the first horse you see. Have a professional, such as your instructor, go with you. Have a vet check done. To summarize, don’t overlook your first impression; listen to your gut. Run if you encounter any of these situations: 1. 2.
3. 4.
5.
6.
If they become irritated with your questions or don’t answer them. Horses and ponies needing weight or looking unhealthy, such as long broken feet, snotty noses, or other health-related issues. (Now, sometimes we all have a new or sick horse, but a sickly horse should be the exception in the herd.) A place that looks like it has been falling apart for many years with little or no repairs. A place in disarray, such as hoses or electrical cords laying where people or animals could trip or get their feet caught in; piled up junk; and manure in the stalls that has not been cleaned for a long time. These are signs that the owner doesn’t take care of the property so they, more than likely, will not take care of you. Aggressive horses wanting to pin their ears and bite. If they all are like that, they are telling you they are not in a happy, cared-for situation. No arena or round pen or paddock for you to ride or work your horse in. Likewise, if there is an arena or round pen, look to see if it’s safe, and it’s not safe if there’s poor footing, rocks where you will ride or train, boards falling off everywhere, and wire or metal posts.
There are great places out there, and you will find the right one for you if you do some research and a little legwork as well. Happy riding, and have a great time in your search.
Claudia J. Swisher is the founder of Balanced Awareness Horsemanship and owner of Rocky Springs Ranch LLC. She is the publisher of HORSE NEWS.
16/ HORSE NEWS
Services and Supplies Directory Blanket Cleaning and Repairs Rocky Springs Ranch, LLC. Call 540-858-3090. Boarding Full-care boarding is available at Double J Stables LLC, 388 Vaucluse Road, Stephens City, Va. 22655. Call 540-869-7770. www.facebook.com/doublejstablesllc. Full-care boarding is available at Rocky Springs Ranch LLC, 116 Pinetop Road, Gore, Va. 22637. Call 540-8583090. www.facebook.com/RockySpringsRanch. Clubs and Nonprofit Organizations Golden Horseshoe 4-H, Frederick County, Va. Call 540-877-4935. www.goldenhorseshoe4h.com. Gore Spirits 4-H Club, Gore, Va. Call Aneta Swisher, 540-336-2561. Shenandoah Valley Equine Rescue Network (SVERN), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that rescues abused, neglected or abandoned equines in the area. Call 540-247-2747. www.svern.org. SAVE-A-HORSE Program, a newly developed nonprofit for unwanted equines. Call 540-858-3090.
Heating – Cooling – Water Services Kangen Water Units, making your water better. Call 540-335-1919 or 540-325-9756. See www.wateriam.com. Instruction/Riding Lessons/Academies Rocky Springs Ranch, LLC, 116 Pinetop Road, Gore, Va. Lessons: Western, English, Dressage, Hunter; beginner/advanced (Balanced Awareness TM). Call 540-858-3090. www.facebook.com/RockySpringsRanch Legal Services Georgia Rossiter, Attorney at Law. Concentrating in family law, litigation, mediation, and equine law in Virginia. Call 540-535-2001 or http://georgiarossiterlaw.com. Photography Focus on the Valley Photography. Contact Jon Bridgan at 540-771-9086 or Focusonthevalley@gmail.com. See www.FOVPhoto.com. Physicians, Chiropractors, and Physical Therapy Cheff Chiropractic Care, 118 Fairground Road, Woodstock, Va. 22664. Call 540-459-3900. www.cheffchiro.com.
Dog Training and Boarding Strategic Paws Training and Boarding. Contact Connie Moss, CPDT-KA, at 540-327-5376 or strategicpawstraining@hotmail.com. See www.startegicpawstraining.com.
Saddlery, Saddle Fitting and Repairs, Tack Shops Rocky Springs Tack Shop, 116 Pinetop Road, Gore, Va. 22637. Repairs, fitting, sales; more than 20 years’ experience. Contact Claudia Swisher, 540-858-3090. www.facebook.com/RockySpringsRanch.
Farriers Sparrows Farrier Service. Contact Collin Sparrow at 540-303-3306 or Sparrowsfarrierservice@gmail.com. Sue's Farrier Service, a BWFA Certified Farrier, for correct shoeing and trimming for balance and performance. Contact Sue at 703-401-7683 or HappyHorses1@comcast.net.
Therapeutic Riding Blue Ridge Center for Therapeutic Horsemanship. Therapeutic riding and equine-facilitated learning. Call Margie Youngs at 540-533-2777. www.brcth.org.
Feed and Supply Stores Southern States-Winchester Cooperative, 447 Amherst Street, Winchester, Va. 22601. Call 540-662-0375. Hay Suppliers Jim Michael, call 304-258-5277. Timothy hay (delivery available); straw also available. Horse and Barn Sitter Services Happy at Home Pet/Farm Sitting. Contact Jane Johnson at 540-335-1268 or deputyjanejohnson@hotmail.com. Ridge View Stables, LLC, for horse-sitting services. Contact Kimberly Meyers at 540-247-9557 or Ridgeviewstables615@gmail.com.
Trailer Sales and Services W. F. Artrip & Son Trailers, 1726 Front Royal Pike, Winchester, Va. 22602. Call 540-662-5028. See www.artriptrailers.com. Training (Equine) Team Barlow. Call 540-869-7271. See www.teambarlowperformancehorses.com. Veterinary Services Cheryl Detamore, DVM, for phone consultations. To set up phone consults, email cheryldetamoredvm@yahoo.com. MeliHeal creator, a healing salve for equines and canines. Call 785-9531149. See www.meliheal.com. Schay Swope, DVM, mobile equine veterinary services. Call 304-283-7421 or schswope@gmail.com. See www.facebook.com/schswope. If you are want a listing in this Directory, call 540-858-3090 or email rsr.cswisher@gmail.com
HORSE NEWS/17
Calendar for Community Horse Events March 19
April
May
Rocky Springs Trail Ride, 2 p.m. Call 540-858-3090
26
Rocky Springs Miniature Horse Show, first in a series of three. Call 540-858-3090
29
Blue Ridge Center for Therapeutic Horsemanship (BRCTH) Volunteer Orientation, 6 p.m., at the farm on Lime Marl Road, Millwood
8
BRCTH Paint with Kate fundraiser, 1:30-3:30 p.m., Wesley United Methodist Church
9
Equine Extravaganza at Warren County Fairgrounds, 9 a.m.
17
BRCTH Spring Session begins
22
Red Revelle Natural Horsemanship Clinic, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Stonehearth Farm. Benefits Humane Society of Shenandoah County. Rain date is April 22. Call 540-465-3149
23
Rocky Springs Open Trail Ride and Cook Out, 2 p.m. $15 fee for nonmembers
29
Rocky Springs Fun Day Fun Show. Call 540-858-3090
13
Cowboy Dressage Practice (first of the season), Rocky Springs, 2 p.m. Call 540-858-3090
20
4-H Open Horse Show, Frederick County Fairgrounds; sponsored by Golden Horseshoe 4-H
28
Rocky Springs Miniature Horse Show, second in a series of three. Call 540-858-3090
June 9-11
Rocky Springs Fun Horse Camp, ages 7 – 18
21-23
Rocky Springs Fun Horse Camp, ages 7 – 18
25 26-30 July
2 10-14
BRCTH Summer Camp Cowboy Dressage practice, Rocky Springs, 4 p.m. BRCTH Summer Camp
15
Tentative plans for Cowboy Ball Dance fundraiser for the Save-a-Horse Program.
22
Golden Horseshoe 4-H Open Horse Show, Frederick County Fairgrounds.
23-29 Aug.
Rocky Springs Trail Ride and Cook Out. Fundraiser for the new Save-A-Horse Program
Frederick County Fair week
6
Cowboy Dressage practice, Rocky Springs, 4:30 p.m., followed by a cook out
26
Rocky Springs Miniature Horse Show, last of a series. High point awards at end.
3
Cowboy Dressage practice, Rocky Springs, 2 p.m., followed by a cook out
17
Rocky Springs Fall Trail Ride/Cook Out. Fundraiser for Save-A-Horse Program. Open to the public
Oct.
8
Rocky Springs Fall Fun Show
Nov.
4
BRCTH bingo fundraiser, Enders Fire Hall, Berryville, doors open at 1:00 for 2:00 bingo
Sept.