2 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE • November 2014
www.horsebackmagazine.com
Horse Sense. One-stop shopping for your
EQUINE INSURANCE SOLUTIONS
For stable coverage that makes sense, pick a winner. PROPERTY COVERAGE t 3FTJEFODFT t #BSOT t )BZ (SBJO t 'BSN .BDIJOFSZ t 'BSN 1SPEVDUT 4VQQMJFT t 5BDL LIABILITY COVERAGE t $BSF $VTUPEZ $POUSPM t 3JEJOH *OTUSVDUJPO t $MJOJDT t #PBSEJOH -JBCJMJUZ t 4IPXT t $BSSJBHF #VHHZ 3JEFT t )BZ 4MFJHI 3JEFT t 6NCSFMMB LIFE INSURANCE COVERAGE
To learn more about American National’s Insurance for Equine Operations visit:
anpac.com | keyword: equine
www.horsebackmagazine.com
Products and services may not be available in all states and eligibility requirements will apply. Personal and commercial lines insurance is issued by American National Property And Casualty Company (ANPAC®), its subsidiaries or a liates, including American National General Insurance Company, Paci c Property And Casualty Company (California), American National Lloyds Insurance Company (Texas), American National County Mutual Insurance Company (serviced by ANPAC®-Texas), and ANPAC® Louisiana Insurance Company (Louisiana). American National Property And Casualty Company is a subsidiary of American National Insurance Company. Life insurance and annuity products are issued by American National Insurance Company, Galveston, Texas.
November 2014 •
HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 3
AN-49f (0113)
®
WHEN YOUR HORSE RECOVERS FASTER, ®
YOU’RE READY FOR WHAT’S NEXT.
INTRODUCING PURINA® SUPERSPORT ™ AMINO ACID SUPPLEMENT. Developed and proven on our nutrition research farm. In scientific research, horses fed SuperSport™ supplement recovered faster and increased their fitness and stamina.* With SuperSport™ supplement, your horse will be ready when you are. VISIT YOUR PURINA® RETAILER OR SUPERSPORTREADY.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION. © 2014 Purina Animal Nutrition LLC. All rights reserved. *vs. horses fed similar protein levels from alfalfa pellets.
4 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE • November 2014
www.horsebackmagazine.com
To find a Purina dealer near you, visit: horse.purinamills.com Steinhauser’s
Alvin
TX
www.steinhausers.com
alvin@steinhausers.com
(281) 388-0388
Angleton Feed & Supply
Angleton
TX
www.damonfarmandranch.com
angletonfeed@sbcglobal.net
(979) 849-6661
Arcola Feed & Hardware
Arcola
TX
www.arcolafeed.com
arcolafdjj@aol.com
(281) 431-1014
The Feed Station
Austin
TX
www.jensfeedstation.com
jen@jensfeedstation.com
(512) 301-7788
Bandera Ranch Store
Bandera
TX
www.theranchstore.com
jerry.sparks@theranchstore.com
(830) 796-3342
Bastrop Feed & Supply
Bastrop
TX
www.bastropfeed.com
clint@bastropfeed.com
(512) 321-3700
Wheeler’s Feed & Outfitters
Boerne
TX
customerservice@wheelersfeed.com
www.wheelersfeed.com
(830) 249-2656
Steinhauser’s
Brookshire
TX
www.steinhausers.com
brookshire@steinhausers.com
(281) 934-2479
AG Mart
Brownwood
TX
www.agmart.com
agmart@nelsonwholesale.com
(325) 643-3636
Lonestar Ranch & Outdoors
Cleburne
TX
www.lonestarranchandoutdoors.com
info@lsroutdoors.com
(817) 645-4325
Clifton Feed
Clifton
TX
www.cliftonfeed.com
cliftonfeed@gmail.com
(254) 675-3416
Conroe Feeders Supply
Conroe
TX
www.feederssupplycompanies.com
bill@conroefeeders.com
(936) 756-5549
J & D Country Store
Conroe
TX
Damon Farm & Ranch
Damon
TX
www.damonfarmandranch.com
timmy@damonfarmandranch.com
(979) 742-3317
Chachere Feed Store
Dayton
TX
www.chacherefeed.com
rob@chacherefeed.com
(936) 336-5273
Stockman Seed Feed and Fertilizer
DeLeon
TX
stockmanseed@gmail.com
(254) 893-5149
Gulf Coast Equine & Pet Center
Friendswood
TX
mark.gcepc@sbcglobal.net
(281) 482-7186
Ranchland Country Store Feed and Fertilizer
Goldthwaite
TX
ranchland@centex.net
(325) 648-2741
Maci Feed & Supply
Hardin
TX
macifeed@imsday.com
(936) 298-9404
Steinhauser’s
Hempstead
TX
www.steinhausers.com
hempstead@steinhausers.com
(979) 826-3273
Cypress Ace Hardware
Houston
TX
www.cypressace.com
Hieden Feed & Supply
Houston
TX
Sam Houston Feed & Supply Inc.
Houston
TX
shfstx@hotmail.com
(281) 591-2443
Herrmann Feed and Supply
Lampasas
TX
herrmannfeed@gmail.com
(512) 556-5212
Aunique Farm & Ranch Supply
La Porte
TX
Chachere Feed Store
Liberty
TX
Livingston Feed & Farm Supply
Livingston
TX
Spring Creek Feed Center
Magnolia
TX
Steinhauser’s
Magnolia
Steinhauser's
(936) 756-7667
www.gulfcoastequinepet.com
(281) 469-8020 (281) 444-1010
(281) 471-2640 brad@chacherefeed.com
(936) 336-5273
dcpowelljr@hotmail.com
(936) 327-8853
www.springcreekfeed.net
springcreekfeed@yahoo.com
(281) 252-5400
TX
www.steinhausers.com
magnolia@steinhausers.com
(281) 356-2530
Navasota
TX
www.steinhausers.com
navasota@steinhausers.com
(936) 825-2081
Needville Feed & Supply
Needville
TX
www.needvillefeedandsupply.com
Steinhauser’s
Richmond
TX
www.steinhausers.com
Steinhauser’s - Rosenberg
Rosenberg
TX
Tibaldo’s Feed & Supply
Santa Fe
TX
Steinhauser’s
Sealy
TX
D & D Feed & Supply
Tomball
TX
Haney Feed & Farm Supply
Waller
TX
King Feed & Hardware
Wimberley
TX
www.horsebackmagazine.com
www.chacherefeed.com
(979) 793-6141 richmond@steinhausers.com
(832) 595-9500 (281) 342-2452
tibaldosfeed@aol.com
(409) 925-2735
sealy@steinhausers.com
(979) 885-2967
ddfeed@att.net
(281) 351-7144
www.haneyfeed.com
haney@haneyfeed.com
(936) 372-3652
www.kingfeedandhardware.com
chris@anvilcom.com
(512) 847-2618
www.steinhausers.com
November 2014 •
HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 5
FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK
Support Your Local Retailer!
I was just in a family feed, tack, and whatnot store in Houston, and it got me to thinking about retailers and how we should support the local guy instead of flocking to the chains like Walmart, Dillards, and other By Steven Long big box stores. Many of the smaller outlets have items for sale that are far more suited for gifts to equestrian folks than mega outlets could ever hope to come by. You see, they actually know their customers. Imagine that? Let’s face it, for the most part, stores with mega square footage supply us with almost everything we need, but often will overlook that special something we’ve always wanted that caught a local retailers eye at market. He/she in turn stocked the local store with it and the item is gone within a day. You see, the local folks know their customers on a first name basis. These tradesmen have shared hopes, dreams, weddings, funerals, and even a returned item or two along the way. It’s personal. I’m not saying to forsake the natural instinct to shop the big box stores for the holidays. Not at all, but don’t forget that the folks where you buy your feed, hay, horse treats, and grooming supplies have other items as well, and often their saddles are top of the line. After all, they are in the horse business. One of the nicest Christmas gifts I ever received was a set of beautiful braided reins bought at a local tack store. I use them to this day on my beloved Bruja. Today’s feed stores, at least the smart ones, stock more than feed and hay. Take a break from that mad dash in and out the feed store’s door and take a look around for other merchandise that you may have missed sitting on the shelves or hanging on the walls during the summer and fall months. You are likely to be surprised. We’ve found artisan crafted items again and again in these most unlikely places, and that has brought something home to us that we like. Our local retailers have an eye for local, Texas made, leather, clothing, and tack that we overlook when we’re just picking up a 50lb. bag of feed on a mad dash after work before the place closes. Stop and look around. You’ll likely be surprised.
On the Cover:
Cover art by - Randy Follis
6 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE • November 2014
November 2014
Cover Story: 32 Paddock Paradise - Jaime Jackson
Lifestyle & Real Estate: 14 Preparing Your Horse For Winter Kathy Williams, DVM 16 Gift Guide Marketplace 28 Barn & Garden - Margaret Pirtle 37 Building My Paddock Paradise - Diane Holt 38 Real Estate Roundup 40 Country Home Loans - Tx Farm Credit
Columns: 8 Horse Bites 26 Tack Talk - Lew Pewterbaugh 46 On the English Front - Cathy Strobel 46 Cowboy Corner - Jim Hubbard
ADVERTISING OFFICES
• HEADQUARTER OFFICE (281) 447-0772 Phone & (281) 893-1029 Fax Advertising@horsebackmagazine.com • BRAZOS VALUE BUREAU Diane Holt (936) 878-2678 Ranch & (713) 408-8114 Cell Dianeh@horsebackmagazine.com • GULF COAST BUREAU Carol Holloway - (832) 607-8264 Cell Carol@horsebackmagazine.com • NORTH TEXAS Mari Crabtree - (216) 702-4520 Mari@horsebackmagazine.com • NEW MEXICO BUREAU Laurie Hammer - (505)315-7842
STAFF PUBLISHER Vicki Long
EDITOR Steven Long
NATIONAL NEWS EDITOR Carrie Gobernatz LIFESTYLE EDITOR Margaret Pirtle 832-349-1427 Horsebackmag@gmail.com EVENTS EDITOR Leslie Greco
Goldenhorses7@hotmail.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Jim Hubbard, Steven Long, Vicki Long, Roni Norquist, Pat Parelli, Kelsey Hellmann, Lew Pewterbaugh, Cathy Strobel, Cory Johnson, Margaret Pirtle, Jaime Jackson Volume 21, No. 11 Horseback Magazine, P.O. Box 681397, Houston, TX 77268-1397, (281) 447-0772. The entire contents of the magazine are copyrighted November 2014 by Horseback Magazine. All rights reserved. Material in this publication may not be reproduced in any form without the expressed written consent of the publisher. Horseback Magazine assumes no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, photographs and other material unless accompanied by a stamped, self addressed envelope. Horseback Magazine is not responsible for any claims made by advertisers. The views and opinions expressed herein do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher or management. Subscription rate is $25.00 for one year. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Horseback Magazine, P.O. Box 681397, Houston, TX 77268-1397. Fax: (281) 893-1029
Email: news@horsebackmagazine.com
Phone: (281)
447-0772
www.horsebackmagazine.com
V ER S AT I L I T Y F O R A N Y PA S T U R E A N D H AY C O N D I T I O N S .
Horses naturally eat fiber. But for years, grains (corn, barley and oats) have been the standard for horse feed, even though research has proven that the high-soluble carbohydrates in grain-based feeds increase the potential for colic, laminitis, hyperactivity, ulcers and cribbing.
With its beet pulp based fiber content, New and Improved Triple Crown® Complete provides 12% fat and all the calories, vitamins and minerals of a grain-based feed, but with half of the potentially harmful soluble carbohydrates. Triple Crown® Complete now has the versatility to be fed in any hay or pasture situation, when hay and pasture are plentiful or to help when they are short.
For more information, visit : www.triplecrownfeed.com or call 800-451-9916.
www.horsebackmagazine.com
November 2014 •
HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 7
Linda Parelli Writes the Foreword for Mark Neihart’s The Horse Angels SANDY, UTAH ( JRPR) – Linda Parelli anticipated reading the book her friend Mark Neihart— CEO of Premier Equestrian— had written. She knew in its pages would be Neihart’s love for the unique bond between humans and horses. What surprised Parelli was to find Neihart had also created a mystical and intriguing story line built around that bond. “The Horse Angels is… a fabulous ride that captures wholeheartedly the unexplainable, magical passion we have for our blessed horses,” Parelli wrote in the foreword published in Neihart’s book. Parelli was honored that Neihart asked her to write the foreword to The Horse Angels. “I have known Mark and his wife Heidi for about ten years now. We met through the dressage master, Walter Zettl. Over the years our friendship grew; Mark told me about the book he was writing. Once it was finished he asked if I would write the foreword. Of course I said yes! My thoughts about the book and its values are in the foreword itself,” Parelli explains. It was ten years before Neihart published The Horse Angels that he and his wife Heidi met Linda Parelli. The three quickly found they shared similar equestrian philosophies. “I love how passionate Mark and Heidi are about spreading the message of thoughtful equine training and the ethical, loving treatment of horses.” Parelli said. It’s no surprise that Linda Parelli— co-creator of Parelli Natural Horsemanship— was an immediate fan of Neihart’s The Horse Angels. The book applauds gentle, subtle communication with horses, as does Parelli Natural Horsemanship. Neihart’s book tells the fictional story of Anne Harper, a news reporter investigating a mystery involving a small herd of wild horses. The Horse Angels touches on drama, romance, and intriguing secrets while focusing on the overall theme of the relationship between people and horses. Neihart gives credit to Linda and
8 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE • November 2014
Saying winning was “nice,” Mark added with a smile, “It wasn’t a surprise.” Mark’s “Horse Bites is compiled from efforts were bouyed with the help of the Press Releases sent to Horseback Arabian Spirit riders, who each year select Magazine. Original reporting is a client to support. Organizer Pat Roddy done as circumstances warrant. explained Mark’s selection by their team, Content is edited for length & style.” saying “Many of our team members have volunteered with Mark and they know he has benefited by riding Arabian horses at SIRE. Plus, Mark needs SIRE services her husband Pat Parelli for strengthenin mid-life after a car accident. We realize ing his beliefs on ethical horsemanship. what happened to Mark could happen to “They showed me how respect for the any of us.” horse and seeing things from his point Nathaniel Hunter, from Chamof view is the basis of all good training.” pions, won second place in this category, Neihart says. followed by Alexandra “Alex” Dumas of Neihart and his company Premier Katy and Lauren Igler of Magnolia, who Equestrian live out this philosophy conwon third and fourth, respectively. Ladana, tinuously through their work. “Premier Lauren’s mother, captured the spirit of the Equestrian was built around our primary day, “Lauren is so excited to go ride on the passion for loving, training, and riding trail. I love telling people about it, as they our horses,” says Neihart. “Every product are usually shocked at the size of crowds we we sell is measured against this passion for have and what all is involved. It gets them safety, practicality, and the well-being of the to thinking what all it does for the clients. horse.” Premier Equestrian manufactures It amazes me how all the volunteers are high-quality products such as horse jumps, just so eager to do their part and do it well. dressage arenas, arena footing, and barn and Also, for David and Faye Reznicek, owners trailer accessories. of 7IL Trails, to allow us their ranch for the To learn more about Premier day (and weekend) is just wonderful and Equestrian, CEO Mark Neihart, and his giving.” In total, SIRE clients raised more book The Horse Angels, visit www.PremierE- than $36,000 for SIRE. questrian.com or call 800-611-6109. SIRE volunteer Jill Butler was recognized for at least the fifth year in a row as the top fundraising volunteer. Team EOG Resources was recognized as top fundrais22nd Annual CGG Saddle Up! for SIRE ing team. Ride-a-thon A Huge Success It must have been the purple fleurs-de-lis painted on their horses’ hips and A glorious dawn welcomed hundreds of other Mardi Gras touches that convinced riders and volunteers to the 22nd Annual the judges to select Krewe of Sonesta Farms CGG Saddle Up! for SIRE Ride-a-thon, in Cypress to be the Best Dressed Team. Saturday October 18th. Having a trail ride A Variety of Corporate Supportfundraiser seemed especially appropriers: In addition to CGG, title sponsor for ate since SIRE exists to bring horses and the fifth year, several other corporations people with disabilities together, working to helped underwrite the day. PetSmart’s West improve quality of life through therapeutic Houston District Manager John Koch horsemanship. Each guest and volunteer presented a $5,000 check to SIRE as part smiled almost as bright as the morning sun, of their PetSmart Gives Back program. knowing his or her part in raising more than MotionPhysicalTherapy.com and Houston$110,000 to support the 300 riders with SportsMedicine.com joined Geico as new disabilities each year who come to SIRE. golden sponsors. While many took to the 40 miles This was the second year for silver of trails right away, others gathered around sponsor EOG Resources to field a team. the pavilion to enjoy carnival festivities. In Mayde Creek Animal Health Center in keeping with the Year of the Horse theme, Katy, another silver sponsor, continued SIRE client riders were able to witness their tradition of supporting ride-a-thon. several unusual demonstrations of horses at Carnival and More: To provide work. David Turell with his horse, Duece, more entertainment for siblings and othtrotted their stuff with an authentic doctor’s ers, SIRE rounded up a bounce house, buggy. Jeffrey Basham and Steve and Dawn petting zoo, and “The Crocodile ExperiHemphill gave a preview of next year’s charence,” which allowed all to get up close and ity joust with a demonstration melee. personal with snakes, crocodiles, and other After all had enjoyed a barbecue reptiles. Children loved that and the family lunch, popular TV personality and Fox26 carnival. In addition, the Houston Liveevening news anchor Don Teague anstock Show and Rodeo provided still more nounced the award winners. Participants entertainment. won for their creative costumes as well as The Speakers Committee brought their tireless fundraising on behalf of SIRE. country line dance & western dance demWinners Recognized: Heights resonstrations, numerous clowns, “Miss Moo,” ident and SIRE rider Mark Strawn now can and “Cowboy.” For the third year, the band call himself “Trail Boss,” a title he earned by raising more than $11,000 for SIRE. Horsebites - Con’t. on pg. 10 www.horsebackmagazine.com
www.horsebackmagazine.com
November 2014 •
HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 9
Horsebites - Con’t. from pg. 8
Will Carter and 100 Miles Gone got the crowd moving with popular favorites, both pop music and country, old and new. The Saddle up for SIRE ride-a-thon benefited from the tireless efforts of mothers and daughters from several National Charity League chapters. Families brought homemade baked goods to sell for SIRE’s benefit and volunteered for the carnival and lunch serving line.www.sire-htec.org.
Back on Track’s Mesh Sheet helps your horse feel loose, supple & comfortable.
2014 American Quarter Horse World Championship Show Schedules Para-Reining Demonstration November 15 By: Lindsay Y. McCall Oklahoma City, OK - - The American Quarter Horse (AQHA) World Championship Show November 7-22, will once again feature a para-equestrian reining demonstration on November 15, 2014. The demonstration will take place in The Jim Norick Arena at the Oklahoma State Fair Park in Oklahoma City after the Senior Reining CRI 3*. The previous 2013 AQHA World Championship Show featured English, western, and halter disciplines, 3,401
entries, a total purse more than $2.4 million, riders from 49 states and 7 countries, and the best Reiners in the business. This para-reining demonstration will be the third opportunity for spectators, organizers, and current and potential athletes to experience para-reining on an international platform. The 2013 event was the launch pad for the 2014 development year and 2015 and beyond international parareining competition. Riders in the past two demonstrations included international para-dressage athletes, two Paralympians, and current reining equestrians. Each reiner rode specific patterns that were part of the newly adapted para-reining rules. Riders will be judged by FEI 4* Reining jury and given accolades based on their performance. USA Reining and the United States ParaEquestrian Association, in cooperation with the AQHA and National Reining Horse Association (NRHA), make this event possible. The popularity of the first parareining demonstration began at the 2013 AQHA World Championship Show in November. The second installment was Horsebites - Con’t. on pg. 44
Back on Track products effectively warm up muscles before exercise, helping reduce the risk of strains or injury. Most importantly, they can help expedite the horse’s recovery from established injuries.
Day 7: Day 0: 7 Weeks: Reduced Heat and Significant inflammation inflammation; reduction of disappearing inflammation in red & red yellow Study performed by Joanna Robson DVM, Napa, CA.
Back on Track welcomes NRHA 3 Million Dollar rider
Craig Schmersal LTE ~ over $3,000,000 NRHA Open Derby Champion NRBC Open Classic Champion SWRHA Open Futurity Champion FEI World Multiple & Silver Medalist Multiple AQHA World Champion
Try Back on Track’s Therapeutic Products Today
Because comfort makes a difference Web: www.backontrackproducts.com Call: 1-888-758-9836 Email: info@backontrackproducts.com Web: www.backontrack.com/ca Call: 403-601-6491 Email: canada@backontrack.com
10 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE • November 2014
www.horsebackmagazine.com
Want to expand your fenceline?
NMLS4938 NMLS 493828 4938 28
Rural Land Loans Residential Home Loans Farm & Ranch Loans Livestock & Equipment Loans
We’re the answer. C
Operating Capital Real Estate Appraisal Services Agribusiness Financing
apital Farm Credit has made agricultural production, real
estate and agribusiness loans for nearly a century. We embrace
Leasing
our cooperative structure and our commitment to return profits to our customers. Through our patronage program, we return almost 100 percent of our net earnings back to our customers ̶ a distinct benefit of doing business with us.
CapitalFarmCredit.com T E X A S www.horsebackmagazine.com
877.944.5500 L A R G E S T
Follow us on
R U R A L
L E N D E R
November 2014 •
HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 11
12 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE • November 2014
www.horsebackmagazine.com
www.horsebackmagazine.com
November 2014 •
HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 13
5 Tips for Preparing Your Horse (and Yourself) for Winter
W
inter is just around the corner, and it is time to start thinking about how you are going to keep your horse in top health during the season. There are many aspects to your horse management, nutritional and veterinary health programs that should be assessed prior to the onset of cold weather. Here are 5 tips that may help you “winterize” your horse and get your management practices geared up for the weather changes ahead.
1. Water, Water, Water Providing a clean, abundant water source in the winter can be a real challenge. But adequate water in-
Kathy Williamson, DVM, Purina Animal Nutrition take is especially critical in the winter as dry cold air can cause a horse to dehydrate quickly and additional hay intake increases the horse’s need for water. Most instances of impaction colic occur in the winter and the middle of summer because this is when horses are most likely to not consume enough water which compromises gut motility, fiber digestion and the movement of manure through the small colon. Consider adding supplemental salt to your horses’ daily ration to encourage maximum water intake. Be sure your horse always has easy access to water; avoid overflowing your water troughs and creating ice around them; and make sure tank heat-
14 14 H HORSEBACK ORSEBACK M MAGAZINE AGAZINE • • November November 2014 2014
ers are in good working order and that electrical cords are out of reach of the horses. Some horses have a strong preference for a particular water temperature. Water that is too cold or too warm may make horses back off from drinking. Providing water at the horses’ preferred temperature range will help to encourage drinking. 2. Parasite Control Next, be thinking about your winter deworming strategies. If your area has hard freezes and consistently cold winter weather, your best parasite control plan may be to deworm with ivermectin after the first hard freeze and then you may not www.horsebackmagazine.com www.horsebackmagazine.com
need to deworm again until next spring. Have a discussion with your veterinarian about appropriate winter deworming for your geographic area and develop a parasite control strategy together. Having a horse free of parasites will dramatically improve feed efficiency, making it much easier to keep your horses at a healthy body condition through even the coldest months. 3. Dental Health During the winter, most horses that have been primarily kept on pasture in the summer will be offered hay and perhaps additional grain or pelleted diets. Hay, grain and pelleted diets generally require more chewing than grass before swallowing, so it is important to be sure your horses’ teeth are in good shape to handle the additional work and to decrease the risk of choke. Have your veterinarian perform a dental exam to see if your horse needs any dental work prior to the onset of cold weather. Good oral health will make it much easier for your horse to stay at a
www.horsebackmagazine.com www.horsebackmagazine.com
good healthy weight throughout the winter months. 4. Keep Vaccinations Current In areas of the country that don’t have prolonged winter freezes, horses are still at risk of contracting mosquito-borne diseases such as Eastern, Western and Venezuelan Equine Encephalomyelitis and West Nile virus. Depending on the product your horse has been vaccinated with, a booster may be needed every six months to provide year-round protection against these devastating diseases. Consult your veterinarian to determine if your horses need a fall booster shot. 5. Fall Veterinary Exam Have your veterinarian give your horse a thorough physical exam (including blood work) before your horse is subjected to the stress and rigors of a long winter season. This is especially important for senior horses (aged 16+). A fall veterinary exam can help identify any potential problems that may make it
harder for your horse to maintain good health and body condition during the long winter months. Armed with this information, you can make plans to implement nutritional or management changes to help cope with any health issues. Remember, your pastures will be changing (either going into winter dormancy, covered in snow or the emergence of cool season grasses such as rye), so be sure that you have a plan in place to replace the forage from pasture with either hay, or a Purina IMPACT hay stretcher or complete feed. Many older horses are less efficient at digesting hay, which can result in calorie deficiencies, especially in the winter when more digestible pasture is unavailable. Consider utilizing a senior diet such as Purina Equine Senior with ActivAge or Purina Equine Senior Active with ActivAge in order to replace the calories that may be lost due to winter pasture conditions. Visit horse.purinamills. com for more information.
November November 2014 2014 • •H HORSEBACK ORSEBACK M MAGAZINE AGAZINE
15 15
HO HO HO 16 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE • November Novem Nov mber 2014 201 0144
www.horsebackmagazine.com
Gift Guide Marketplace 1. Hoof Jack: The Ultimate Hoof Support System for everyone who owns a horse or works with horses. Comfort for him - ease for you. Find it at: www.HoofJack.com 2. Giddy-Up Friends: Everyone kid wants a horse under the tree this year, so give them one that will give them a year of fun without the need of a pasture or stall. Aurora Manufacturing - Found in toy stores across the U.S. 3. Bang It Dang It Barrel Racer Socks: Built-in shin protection for those times when your horse has a mind of its own. Helps minimize barrel bumps and bruises yet is comfortable enough to wear all day. One size fits all for adult female. Find it at: www.barrel-horseracing.com 4. MG Bling & Tack: Everyone needs a new saddle under the tree. Complete set only $500. Comes pink zebra, teal zebra, white zebra and seats 14, 15 & 16. Find it at: 832-934-3009 Facebook: MgBlingTackDecor 5. Let’R Buck: A unique fragrance combining citrus top notes with alluring spices. Warm, soft woods scent creates a desirable & masculine cologne. Available at all top western stores around the country. Find it at: www.leterbuckcologne.com 6. Sundowner of Texas: 2014 CM 16’ Stocker Bumperpull Stock Trailer - It might not fit under the tree but this trailer will be the hit of the day parked in your driveway. With a total length of 18’5�, and a width of 6’, this trailer is perfect for your horse and a friend. Find it at: www.sundowneroftexas.com 7. 3G Brand: Winter time warm, wavy tan fur with Buckskin Sherpa Suede on trophy side. Comes in Twin, Full or Queen size. King size available with custom order. Find it at: 903-819-3010 or www.3gbrand.weebly.com 8. Saddler’sŽ Gift Box: More than just a pretty package! Contains one 8-oz bottle of Saddler’sŽ TLC; one 4-oz jar of Saddler’sŽ Preservative; one sponge; two 100% Horse Hair Brushes. Find it at: www.jmsaddler.com www.horsebackmagazine.com
November 2014 •
HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 17
9. Bayou West Premier Saddle Pads: When you saddle up, REACH FOR THE BEST!!! Bayou West Co. is proud to offer the finest in protection for your horse along with a classic great appearance. Check out our many styles and sizes for every cowboy and cowgirl on your Christmas list! Find it at: www. bayouwest.com 10. D&D: American West celebrates the human spirit that lives on in the hearts of many. At D&D Texas Outfitters, you will find a large selection of these handcrafted leather handbags and wallets from their popular collections to fit you or a loved ones personal style. Find it at: 830-379-7340 • www.DDTexasOutfitters.com 11. Rachel’s Texas Kitchen: All products at Rachel’s Texas Kitchen are available in a variety of quantities, ranging from single jars through a case of 12, or a neatly-packaged, threejar gift box of jams and jellies. If you are looking for the perfect gift, why not choose something flavorful and sweet? Find it today at: www.rachelstexaskitchen.com 12. The Hat Store: “There’s No Substitute For Experience!” American, Stetson, Resistol, Borsalino, Dobbs, Larry Mahan by Milano. Find it today at: www.thehatstore.com 13. Steinhauser’s: You’ll find Breyer’s 2014 Holiday Horse - Bayberry and Roses, reminiscent of the beauty found in a snowy landscape at twilight and wrapped in the festive colors of holiday flora, as well as other collectables and gift ideas for those hard to shop for on your list. Find it today at: www.steinhausers.com 14. Arcola: Now stocking Cinch WRX “the number one choice for those who live and breathe the western way of life.” Find it today at: www.arcolafeed.com 15. Spring Creek Feed: Looking for the perfect gift, check out the belt buckles and jewelry from Montana Silversmiths! Find it today at: www.springcreekfeed.com 16. Sedita Feed Saddles: Your one stop source for great bridles, bits and more! Find it today & Call: 713-691-1501
18 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE • November 2014
www.horsebackmagazine.com
www.horsebackmagazine.com
Nove No November vemb mber err 20 2014 014 • 01
HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 19
colorful christmas
excellent for for...
QJDLJOH t CBOEBHJOH t BQQMZJOH TUVET t DMJQQJOH t USJNNJOH t SBTQJOH BOE NPSF
®
comfort for your horse... ease for your body Made in the USA
+1 s www.hoofjack.com
20 November2013 2014 20 HHORSEBACK ORSEBACKM MAGAZINE AGAZINE• - November
www.horsebackmagazine.com www.horsebackmagazine.com
T
hanksgiving dinners take 18 hours to prepare. They are consumed in 12 minutes. Half-times take 12 minutes. This is
not coincidence. ~Erma Bombeck
www.horsebackmagazine.com www.horsebackmagazine.com
November 20142013 • -H November HORSEBACK ORSEBACKM MAGAZINE AGAZINE
21 21
A
n optimist is a person who starts a diet on Thanksgiving. ~Irv Kupcinet
®
The Ultimate Slow Feed Hay Bag
REDUCE ULCER RISK GRAZING NATURALLY
Available in 1/2”, 3/4”, 1”, 1 1/4” & 1 3/4” Mesh Sizes
22 HORSEBACK November2013 2014 ORSEBACK MAGAZINE AGAZINE • - November
T H E H A Y P I L L OW. C O M or call 888-489-0022
www.horsebackmagazine.com www.horsebackmagazine.com
www.horsebackmagazine.com www.horsebackmagazine.com
November 2014 •- HORSEBACK November 2013 ORSEBACK MAGAZINE AGAZINE
23
TASTE the LEGEND Delicious wines sourced from Paso Robles, California – cowboy wine country!
PurpleCowboyWines.com | @sippurplecowboy
24 November2013 2014 24 H HORSEBACK ORSEBACKM MAGAZINE AGAZINE• - November
www.horsebackmagazine.com www.horsebackmagazine.com
www.horsebackmagazine.com www.horsebackmagazine.com
November 20142013 • -H November HORSEBACK ORSEBACKM MAGAZINE AGAZINE
25 25
*HQHUDO
Saddle Fit - Again & Again!
Horseback Magazine’s Saddle & Tack Editor
T
his month, there have been many questions about saddle fit, and once again, the answer to so many people is, there is no good answer. I’m talking about western saddle fit, not English. English saddles have short enough trees, and most are “wool flocked”, meaning they have adjustable padding in the “panels”. English saddles are almost always a joy to fit because many have
interchangeable gullets. Those that don’t can be ordered in various tree widths with instructions as to how to determine which tree you need. Others, like one of my favorite companies, Smith Worthington, the oldest saddle company in the United States, can adjust the trees in their saddles with a hydraulic press, and change it again and again for different horses or changes in conformation. They will even do it for non Smith Worthington saddles. One of the things that I really love about Smith Worthington is that they have been in the saddle business in the United States since George Washington’s second term as President! That’s impressive. When my father was showing Tennessee walking horses in the late 1940’s and early ‘50’s, Smith Worthington was the saddle to ride. The company almost went into oblivion for a time, but, Curtis Hanks, a descendant of the original founders, has been doing a wonderful job of bringing the company back into the mainstream. Regular readers of this column know
26 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE • November 2014
how I feel about keeping our businesses at home. OK, so my problem is finding a western saddle tree short enough for some of the short backed horses we encounter today. Several years ago, a mule training friend and I designed a tree for a short, round backed mule, and oddly enough it fit a large number of horses. When I shot myself in the foot and sold Bunkhouse Leather, I let some of those trees go. The company that made them for me is very bad about communication, and the process of making trees is very complicated unless you are doing the same old same old. I just had an old customer bring in a Bunkhouse saddle with a broken cantle. I fixed the cantle and am getting ready to put the saddle back together, but hope I can buy enough time to get it duplicated by a company that is more responsive. The trouble is, there are very few saddle tree companies. Most of the production saddle makers use production trees, of which there are very few companies
www.horsebackmagazine.com
producing them. There are actually only 4 or 5 companies that make most of the trees for production saddles. There are probably about 6 or 8 smaller saddle tree companies that do higher end trees for more custom saddle makers, and there are a very few saddle makers that make their own trees. When someone needs a special tree, none of the regular companies really want to take the time from their tree duplicating to do a “one off ” tree, plus the instructions for a one off tree are often ambiguous, and the results are never guaranteed. So, what is the answer? I always tell my customers that their best bet is to find the closest production tree and have a saddle built on that. If you have a custom tree built for an unusual shaped horse, after waiting 6 months for the tree, another 3 months for the saddle, that horse will lay down and die, and then you have a saddle that won’t fit any other horse in the world. Because the company that built my “Bunkhouser Tree” never returns my calls, I am going to be actively seeking a new tree company. If the tree duplicating machines were not so expensive, I would try to do my own manufacturing. I remember when I first started working for
www.horsebackmagazine.com
Bona Allen in 1979, they had a guy that made their trees. He had done them for so long, he no longer used a pattern, just cut them with a band saw. Tex Tan, Bona Allen, who shared the same factory then, had a slew of foreign exchange students pulling wet rawhide out of barrels of lime water ( to slip the hair from the hides), sewing rawhide onto the trees and putting them in the drying room. The day of the rawhide covered wood tree is probably numbered because it’s a nasty job. The rawhide is slippery, slimy and smelly, and the work has always been done by ethnic minorities. So here we go with the political correctness BS. There are some jobs that people don’t want to do. There are some jobs that people without options are glad to do. You can’t pay everyone $15.00 an hour. There are people that can’t do a job worth $15.00 an hour. Every politician, every business person, every person who is concerned about the survival of this once great country, should read Atlas Shrugged. You would think that the world would not keep repeating the same mistakes over and over again, but here we go. This book was written in 1956, and it is so apropo today.
I guess the whole point of my column this month is that the problems that have evolved are not being adequately addressed by the companies that produce western saddles today. The manufacturers are putting out product as fast as they can, trying to make a profit. Some of the companies that send their production offshore, don’t give a damn about fit, they just want to sell product. The companies that care, often are too expensive for the common consumer. The common consumer often doesn’t know what they need. Saying a saddle will fit any horse is like saying a size 10 boot will fit any man. Does that make sense? What if you are a woman? Does a size 7 boot fit every woman? Try to find a saddle shop that understands saddle fit. Try to find a production saddle that comes close to fitting. Try to find someone to help you get the right fit. It will make your riding experience much more pleasant. Bandera’s Lew Pewterbaugh has been called the most knowledgeable saddle and tack authority in the Southwest. For private fitting consultation call (830) 328-0321 or (830) 522-6613 or email: saddlerlew@gmail.com.
November 2014 •
HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 27
By: Margaret Pirtle, Lifestyle Editor
“When I hear somebody talk about a horse or cow being stupid; I figure it’s a sure sign that the animal has somehow outfoxed them” -Tom Dorrance, True Unity: Willing Communication Between Horse & Human
Christmas Made Easy
S
hop till you drop is so totally 80’s. You probably have little interest in a shopping marathon, decorations that take weeks to accomplish and baking that leaves you more sour than sweet. Your time is precious, but finding the right present, decorations and easy baked sweets are still on your list. This month we wanted to help you get a jump start on Christmas ideas. Try our easy holiday ideas and put fun and relaxing with friends and family back in your Christmas.
Barn & Gifts By The Dozens For all those co-workers, neighbors, and maybe even the postman who you would like to give something nice to, but don’t have the time to spend hours shopping or funds that are running short, this beautiful bulb in a mason jar can be made by the dozens for all those people and at a cost of less than $2.00 a piece. Materials: • Paperwhite bulbs • Gravel, Small Stones or Glass Pebbles • Wide mouth half pint Ball jars • Screw on lids for ball jars • Tag for watering instructions. Instructions: Paperwhites do not need potting soil. The small stones secure their roots. Pour Mason Jar 3/4 full of small stones or glass pebbles. Add bulb to the top of the stones. Screw on mason jar lid and add decorations to jar with tag for watering instructions: Tag: Keep water to the top of the stones. Plant should bloom in approximately 6 weeks.
28 AGAZINE 28 HHORSEBACK ORSEBACKMM AGAZINE••November November2014 2014
www.horsebackmagazine.com www.horsebackmagazine.com
Garden Simple Christmas Fudge This wonderful fudge only takes 2 ingredients and minutes to make, so it is perfect for making batches for friends and family during the holidays. • 1 can sweetened condensed milk • 3 cups semi sweet chocolate chips You will need, a microwave safe bowl, a mixing spoon, and a 9 by 9 pan lined with slightly greased wax paper and a kitchen spatula and a wooden spoon. Place the 3 cups chocolate chips in the microwave safe bowl. Cover with sweetened condensed milk, stir. Microwave at medium heat setting for 1 minute. Take out and stir. Place in microwave one more minute. Take out and stir. Place in microwave a minute more. Take out and Stir. At this point all the chocolate chips should be melted (if not try 30 seconds more in the microwave). Using a kitchen spatula scrape the contents of the glass bowl into the lined 9 by 9 pan, and then smooth out the top of it. Place the pan in the fridge for about an hour or so. Then using the wax paper, pull the now set fudge out of the pan and place it on a cutting board. Remove the wax paper and then cut into squares. If you want to make it fancy, you can crush peppermint candies and gently push them into the top of the fudge before you let it set in the fridge. Or just before placing the fudge in the pan to set, stir in marshmallows, crushed nuts, or crumbled cookies. The variations one could invent are endless. Snailpacetransformations.com
C
Snowman Wreath
an’t have Christmas without a wreath. All you need to make your own Snowman Wreath are three different size wreaths, hat, scarf, mittens (optional), sticks for hands, green craft wire to hold the three wreaths together and a wreath hanger for your door - that’s it! www.sweetlittlebluebird.com
www.horsebackmagazine.com www.horsebackmagazine.com
November ORSEBACK AGAZINE November2014 2014••HH ORSEBACKMM AGAZINE
29 29
%XVLQHVV %LW The Grooming Company, launches their newly redesigned website at www.HealthyHairCare.com
C
ome on In, everyone’s invited to take a cruise around the new internet home of Healthy HairCare, Silverado Show Grooming, Old Timer’s Equine and IntenseEQ. Sleek, stylish and full of new imagery and features, a pleasant user-friendly experience awaits, with improved navigation, using the latest technology, responsive to all browsers and mobile devices. All products are detailed to answer all your questions. Easy to find “Special Offers” Page with
downloadable printable cash register redeemable manufacturer rebate coupons. Connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Google+, fast and easy. Join our email community; sign for free product samples, and more. Ready to buy, we make it easy, visit any product page, click the BUY button and visit our retail ecommerce site www.HorseGroomingSolutions. com . Every Day, Show Day and People Too! Visit w w w. H e a l t h y HairCare.com and enjoy the tour.
30 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE • November 2014
Horse Grooming Solutions, LLC (352) 523-2248 15023 Dawson Dr. Dade City, FL 33523 www.horsegroomingsolutions.com
www.horsebackmagazine.com
www.horsebackmagazine.com
November 2014 •
HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 31
W
Jaime Jackson Revisits “Paddock Paradise” By Jaime Jackson
hen I wrote Paddock Paradise: A Guide To Natural Horse Boarding in 2006, I was hopeful that horse owners, particularly those with property of their own, would rise to this book’s calling and create more humane and natural living conditions for their horses. Today, I’m pleased to say that this is exactly what is happening . . . all around the world! For those readers not familiar with Paddock Paradise, it is a concept and method of ‘boarding’ horses based on the natural lifestyles of U.S Great Basin wild, free-roaming horses and encourages natural movement along what I call “tracks” and “paths”. In the wild, horses, because they are animals of prey, instinctively move in close formations across their home ranges as they seek out forage, water, favored rolling spots, others bands with whom they wish to interact, and numerous other activities essential to their survival. These formations, comprised of family members led by an alpha mare from the front, and driven from behind by an alpha stallion, travel along familiar routes as they go from one place to the next. I call these routes “tracks”. A track is as wide as is necessary for the band activity to take place as they move along (Photo #1). On a track, band members may be eating, sleeping/resting, playing, etc. (Photo #2). In those areas where forward movement is the sole activity and efficiency, the track narrows down to a single-file “path.” (Photo #3). In either case of track or path, the survival instinct is the driving force behind all movement. Paddock Paradise lays out a broad, if not general, template for tracking a property and offers specific recommendations for stimulating movement based on a variety of natural equine behaviors. These provide horse owners with many opportunities to get their horses moving naturally. The principal goal of Paddock Paradise is to facilitate health and soundness, both physical and mental, in the lives of domesticated horses and is the antidote to lives of misery for horses living in stalls and other forms of close confinement. As well, it virtually eliminates their access to large grass pastures that are not only a primary trigger for laminitis but are a cause of boredom. The reader is invited to locate the book and take action in this growing horse care revolution. In fact, the agricultural School at the University of Massachusetts in Amherst named Paddock Paradise “an innovative best pasture management practice to improve equine wellness, water quality, and soil health.” In the remainder of my column, I will address some of the typical problems and questions I hear from horse owners who are trying to make Paddock Paradise work for their horses. Many problems reflect unawareness of electric fence technology, concerns over property size, and even problems with their horse’s feet! All are soluble, however, so let’s look at some questions from those of you either contemplating building your own Paddock Paradise or are wrestling with one of these issues in your current system.
Photo 1: A view of a portion of a Paddock Paradise track at a commercial boarding facility in Holland that was built in 2010. Photo by Piet Nibbelink taken at De Paardenmaat
32 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE • November 2014
www.horsebackmagazine.com
Photo 2: A sandpile makes a cozy resting place for the horses Photo by Jill Willis taken at the AANHCP headquarters in Lompoc, CA.
My mare has seedy toe. I’m cleaning out/ scrubbing and soaking in diluted Betadine daily. Been doing it for weeks but there’s still an inch hole inside. Can a track help? JJ: “Seedy toe” is a misnomer for chronic laminitis. Although unusual to occur in Paddock Paradise, it can if the tracking areas contain sufficient Fructan-rich grasses the horse can access, or a supplementary diet contains other known laminitis triggers (e.g., high sugar/carb hays, molasses, corn, beet pulp, etc.). If this is the case, and the laminitis advances unchecked, the wall-to-sole attachment (seen as the white line at the bottom of the hoof ) can weaken and separate sufficiently for opportunistic and ubiquitous pathogens to invade, colonize and infect the region. Topical anti-bacterial and anti-fungal agents are
recommended, but expect them to do little good if the causality (diet) is not addressed. I would recommend consulting with an NHC practitioner for appropriate professional intervention. Chronic laminitis is a very serious condition. My horse is having a hard time with gut ulcers and the only time he isn’t in pain with ulcers is when he is in this field but then he gets really bad toe pain on his front feet!! JJ: Your horse is suffering the same fate as the mare in the previous discussion. Lush grasses are known laminitis triggers and have no place in the life of a healthy horse or in Paddock Paradise. Destroy or remove the grasses and laminitis will abate. The ulcers may be symptomatic of clinical laminitis. They
are caused by a lactoses in the hind gut where bacterial fermentation takes place. Horses do need to eat constantly – and so, you will want to make sure your horse(s) have access to the right kinds of (grass) hays 24/7. Is it possible to create a paddock paradise in a 1-acre field?! JJ: Size wise, one acre is about the “lower limit” for a Paddock Paradise (I often joke, “You can’t have a Paddock Paradise in a stall!”) but, yes, it can work. One acre is equivalent to about 208 feet × 208 feet or 43,560 square feet. Adding up the lengths, regardless of the acre’s shape, the perimeter comes to about 834 feet, or a bit more than an eighth of a mile — that is, if only the perimeter is used. If the track is designed to wind through the acre, then its length will Paddock Paradise - Con’t. on pg. 35
Providing an endless supply of grass hays either on the ground or in small-hole hay nets is an important part of the manner of feeding horses in a Paddock Paradise. Photo by Jill Willis taken at the AANHCP headquarters in Lompoc, CA.
www.horsebackmagazine.com
November 2014 •
HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 33
34 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE • November 2014
www.horsebackmagazine.com
Paddock Paradise - Con’t. fm pg. 33
increase commensurately. I understand many horse owners do it this way, and I think this it is a good idea, unless open space in the middle of an outer perimeter track is the objective. Of course, expect the horses to move continuously along the track from one activity to the next. Distance wise, this will add up quickly . . . and much to the benefit of the horse. My horse doesn’t really LIKE other horses so I am planning on getting a donkey as a pasture mate for her when my PP is complete. JJ: Well, it’s not natural for horses to not like all other horses. What’s possibly at work here is the need for your horse to work through the pecking order process with other horses. And while the process can vary depending upon the horses and the space available, there are optimal ways to introduce ‘over the fence’ and slowly work your way to turning them out into the large open center section surrounded by the track as I’ve described in Paddock Paradise (pages 93 and 97-99). This process can at times get pretty rough and tumble, with pinned ears, kicking, biting, charging, etc. Most of the time, minor theatrics will be the most of it. Wait until the horses calm down and move toward eating, then move then onto the track. I have a typical English field with thick lush grass. What’s the best way to get rid of the grass? JJ: Get rid of the grass by whatever means you have. How this can be done will also be limited by track
Photo 3: Chance galloping down a narrow path to join his herd. Photo by Marijke Schimmelpennink taken at the AANHCP headquarters in Lompoc, CA.
width and obstacles positioned in the track along the way. People use tractors with disks and blades, a roto-tiller, a propane torch, nontoxic grass killers (vinegar & salt), or even other animals like goats and sheep. Does anyone use an automatic feeder? If so what brand? JJ: I’m an advocate of any system of forage feeding that keeps hay available 24/7 and does not discourage movement. Slow and/or automatic feeders may encourage horses to just stand and eat, and leave only to get water. Throwing hay on the ground along the track is the easiest way, but there may be aggravating circumstances such as strong winds, rain, mud that will lead to excessive waste when feeding in this manner. We avoid the waste from trampling, defecating, and urinating on it by using hay nets spaced in groups around the track. I’m wondering how you would put the principles/ ideas of PP put into place if you don’t own the pasture, meaning that you’re not allowed to make permanent changes
Paddock Paradise at the AANHCP Headquarters in Lompoc, CA. Photo by Jill Willis www.horsebackmagazine.com
JJ: If the owner of the property is open to the concept, and they understand that track fencing can be temporary (e.g., electric), they might quickly see the benefits to their field when the horses only have access to the perimeter. Attractive also is the idea that the track can be directed to areas that would otherwise be November 2014 •
HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 35
of no use to the owner, but beneficial to the horse. “Step in” plastic fence posts can be easily installed (and removed) to create the perimeter fence, solar fence chargers can be used if you do not have electricity and the entire system can go with you if you secure a permanent property. It is simply a matter of being creative without making permanent changes. What kinds of hay do you recommend feeding free choice? And what do you think about adding straw to the diet? JJ: I would stay clear of feeding straw due to reported risks of its causing impaction, its poor nutrient profile and the fact that it can be quite high in sugar and non-structured carbohydrates. Instead feed proven “safe” grass hays such as Orchard, Brome, Timothy, and Bermuda – and Teff hay if you can get it. For hard keepers, Alfalfa may be safe in very small quantities mixed with grass hays, that is, no more than 5 percent by weight; but do withhold from any horse with a history of laminitis.
AUTHORS NOTE: I have to say, people have been very clever and innovative in how they’ve done things to adapt the principles of Paddock Paradise to their unique situations. But many horse owners have written to us for advice AFTER spending the time, energy and money on newly created natural environments inspired by Paddock Paradise only to be given advice that could have been more easily and inexpensively implemented in the planning or early development stages. Thus, we started offering a Paddock Paradise consultation service to help get people started in the process and, ideally, save them the expense and headache of learning lessons many of us learned long ago. The consultation process can be as basic as assisting in the layout of fence-lines, feeding stations, water location, shelter, hay storage (etc.) or more extensively providing advice and feedback on
footing, on trenching paths, on creating ponds, on blending the herds, on how best to encourage more movement, or on a number of unique situations that come up on properties. Most of the consultations begin through a series of questions being answered by the
36 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE • November 2014
person interested in creating a PP and followed by a series of email exchanges of photos and diagrams. Some horse owners simply want an experienced set of eyes to review existing plans – and proposed dimensions - or want an onsite visit to walk the property and provide feedback throughout the process. If this is of interest, see the “Consultations” link on my website at www.jaimejackson.com. Commercial boarding facilities, equine rescues, conservation agents and ecologists and countless horse owners have created a number of Paddock Paradises around the world and we continuously receive ideas on new fencing, new ways to feed hay, new ideas for shelters in areas with inclement weather. Visit Paddock Paradise on Facebook for an array of ideas, photos, and exchanges with other horse owners utilizing this revolutionary concept in natural horse boarding. www.horsebackmagazine.com
I
Building My Paddock Paradise
started to design my horse’s Paddock Paradise about a year ago. We are on 300 acres so I had a lot of options on what to do using some excising fence lines and some lower land that wasn’t being utilized. The main idea is just to have a full circle loop with feeding, water, salt, rolling and loafing locations spread out for continuous movement. It’s very easy to design if you buy the Jaime Jackson’s book Paddock Paradise A Guide To Natural Horse Boarding (www.jaimejackson. com/products/paddock-paradise-aguide-to-natural-horse-boarding-jaime-jackson) and create it yourself, or hire the team out to design one for your land. It is the best thing you can do for your horse’s life, provide a more natural way to live in our domesticated life style. Stalling them is not the answer and you can do a Paddock Paradise if you’re on one acre of land or 500. Jaime’s system is perfect for anyone wanting to do the best for your horse’s mental, physical and healthy state of mind. Here are some challenges I ran into once it was complete. The herd leader didn’t want to leave the cool covered sandy arena that they have always loafed in during the hot Texas months, so if he didn’t venture out no one did. Also I still kept my hay baskets inside the arena so they had a cool place to loaf, they had hay and water so why leave? So I moved these items along the loop. The other issue I had was not being able to make a real circle loop which I believe is key to the system for them to have continuous travel to get to the things they want and need. We didn’t want to cross fence our property so we had to deal with just a trail to the end, and they would have to travel back a total of about five miles to the end and back. This is not ideal for the system in my opinion but it is what we had to do instead of having a full circle loop.
www.horsebackmagazine.com
By Diane Holt
The other challenge we ran into is half way into the Paradise Paddock trail they travel down a steep hill into a lower wooded area. We have wild hogs as most country folks in Texas, and traveling up and down the river was “spooky” since most horses don’t like wild hogs. They were very leery of going down there to get to the
other side of the PP so I found that with too tight of a location for them, being a prey animal, they weren’t feeling safe. They have now learned to navigate it a bit better, and are traveling it more frequently now. I were to do it over, I would make changes based on my learning experience.
November 2014 •
HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 37
REALTOR Roundup DEITRA ROBERTSON REALTOR Deitra Robertson Real Estate, Inc. 38351 FM 1736 Hempstead, TX (O): (832) 642-6789 (C): (832) 642-6789
TAMMY FOREMAN REALTOR Hodde Real Estate Co. 112 W. Main Street, Brenham, TX (O): (979) 836-8532 (C): (979) 451-2945 (E): tammy@hodderealty.com (W): www.hodderealty.com
(E): deitra@IKnowRanches.com (W): www.IKnowRanches.com
SPECIALTIES: Farms/Ranches, Equestrian, Residential, Country Homes, Land. TERRITORY: Texas
SPECIALTIES: Farms/Ranches, Horse Properties, Land TERRITORY: Texas
DEE ANN BOUDREAUXREALTOR Texas First Real Estate 1116 FM 109 New Ulm, TX (O): (903) 322-3379 (C): (979) 583-7305 (E): deeboudreaux@windstream.net (W): www.texasfirstre.com SPECIALTIES: Residential, Equestrian, Farm/ Ranch, Country Property TERRITORY: Texas
YOLANDA FUSILIER BROKER Peak Realty 17515 Spring Cypress Rd. Suite # C260 Cypress, TX (O): (979) 921-9530 (C): (713) 417-7567 (E): peak@wt.net (W): www.peakrealty.sbuilder.net SPECIALTIES: Farms/Ranches, Land Commercial TERRITORY: Waller, Harris, and surrounding counties.
WILLIAM “BOO” CHRISTENSEN BROKER/OWNER RE/MAX Advantage 110 E. Alamo Brenham, TX
TOOTIE LYONS RIXMANREALTOR, ASSOCIATE Heritage Texas Country Properties 605 S. Austin Brenham, TX
(O): (979) 251-7500 (C): (979) 277-8426 (E): boo@realtorboo.com (W): www.realtorboo.com
(C): (979) 277-2694 (E): tootie2@sbcglobal.net (W): www.heritagetexascountry.com/page46/Tootie-Lyons-Rixman
SPECIALTIES: Farm/Ranch, Hunting Property, Country Homes TERRITORY: Texas RENEE DIEHL ALHS Round Top Real Estate 101 Main St. Round Top, TX
SPECIALTIES: Acreage, Homes, Horse Property, Country Homes, Farm & Ranch TERRITORY: Texas
(C): (713) 401-8958 (O): (979) 249-5732 (E): diehl@gmail.com (W): www.roundtopland.com SPECIALTIES: Farm & Ranch, Land, Country & Luxury Homes TERRITORY: South Central Texas
38 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE • November 2014
Attention Realtors & Brokers! JOIN HORSEBACK’S ROUNDUP! Only $35/month includes both online & in print!
WENDY CLINE REALTOR/BROKER CLHMS, SRES, ABR, Million Dollar Guild Wendy Cline Properties RE/MAX Realty Center 13611 Skinner Rd. #100 Cypress, TX (O): (281) 213-6271 (C): (281) 460-9360 (E): wendy@wendyclineproperties.com (W): www.wendyclineproperties.com SPECIALTIES: Equestrian, Farm & Ranch, Land, Residential, Luxury, Commercial TERRITORY: Texas SASSY STANTON BROKER Stanton-Pinckard Realty 2010 Commonwealth, Houston, TX (O): (713) 861-4097 (C): (713) 824-8387 (E): sassy@stanton-pinckard.com (W): www.stanton-pinckard.com SPECIALTIES: Farm/Ranches, Land TERRITORY: Texas MARY GARBETT BROKER ASSOCIATE Right Time Real Estate LLC at KW Farm & Ranch 950 Corbindale Rd, #100 Houston, TX (C) (713) 213-2420 (O) (713) 470-2055 (E) mary@marygarbett.com (W) www.har.com/marygarbett SPECIALTIES: Equestrian Estates, Farm & Ranch, Residential TERRITORY: Ft. Bend, Waller, Austin, Washington, Grimes, Harris Counties CARRIE SHWAGER REALTOR The Property Source 7424 FM 1488, Ste. A-1 Magnolia, TX 77354 (C): (281) 960-5190 (F): (936) 449-4586 (E): carrieschwager@att.net (W): www.texasluxurypropertyrealtor.com SPECIALTIES: Equestrian, Farm and Ranch, Hunting, and Luxury Residential TERRITORY: Texas
www.horsebackmagazine.com
Your own personal playground
When you’re looking for that place in the country, Texas Farm Credit can help. With more than 80 years in the ag lending business, we have expertise in financing land where you can live, work or just have fun. TEXAS FARM CREDIT OFFERS LOANS FOR: • Recreational Properties • Farms and Ranches • Cattle Operations • Rural Homes • Timber Properties
TexasFCS.com | (800) 950-8563 Athens (903) 675-9388
Bonham (903) 583-3217
Fairfield (903) 389-8738
Nacogdoches (936) 564-0448
Raymondville (956) 689-5502
Sulphur Springs (903) 885-7608
Uvalde (830) 278-3212
Bandera (830) 796-9201
Brenham (979) 836-2572
Gainesville (940) 665-0715
Paris (903) 784-4383
Robstown (361) 387-3534
The Woodlands (936) 344-9400
Weslaco (956) 447-5500
Beaumont (409) 861-1900
Clarksville (903) 427-5675
Hebbronville (361) 527-3297
Pleasanton (830) 569-8741
San Antonio (210) 798-6280
Tyler (903) 593-0151
www.horsebackmagazine.com
November 2014 •
HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 39
5HDO (VWDWH COUNTRY HOME LOANS: What to Know Before You Buy
F
or a growing number of city-dwelling nature lovers, horse owners and country enthusiasts, a home in the country seems like a dream come true. But loving the country and living in it are two different things. Before making that big move, take time to understand some of the nuances of buying in the country. Make sure the lender can finance your property. The very first thing you need to know when trying to secure a country-home loan is if your lender of choice can actually finance your dream property and home. On acreage property, most mortgage companies can only finance up to 10 acres. Farm Credit, on the other hand, can combine the acreage and home financing into one loan, saving a customer closing costs and the trouble of having to take out multiple loans. “Farm Credit lenders like us can lend up to 95 percent of appraised value on 30-year-fixed rate loans, which are then sold to secondary market lenders like Fannie Mae and Farmer Mac,” says Brad Sims, director of mortgage lending with Texas Farm Credit.
Be aware of the property’s infrastructure costs. Unlike urban residential developments, rural acreage sometimes may have limited access to community water or sewer systems, and additional inspections and costs may be involved. Amenities that some city-dwellers take for granted, like high-speed Internet access and cable service, may not be options in the country. Sims, who has more than 30 years of commercial and consumer lending experience, advises that owners research what additional infrastructure costs may be needed, such as water or electricity. Maintain homestead and ag exemptions. Most likely, the property will have existing homestead and ag-use tax exemptions, which can significantly lower the owner’s tax bill. First-time country-home buyers are not familiar with the requirements for maintaining an ag exemption, and commercial lenders sometimes require the buyer to rescind the exemption before making a rural-home loan. “We will let the borrower know that they do not have to split up the acreage if they choose not to,” explains Sims. “They can keep homestead exemptions as well as agricultural
40 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE • November 2014
tax exemptions so long as the parcels are split with the county’s tax office already. We encourage a new customer to check with their local appraisal office to find out what exemptions are in place.” Don’t let the financing options overwhelm you. While Sims notes that his lending cooperative has numerous options to offer when it comes to home financing, he says that any experienced lender will help a customer understand which options are best for them. “Our goal is to be a fullservice lender and to help customers weed through the options and find the one that works best for their situation,” Sims says. “In addition, many of our loan officers are country home owners themselves, so they know exactly what the customer is going through. That kind of expertise can be invaluable.”
Article provided by Texas Farm Credit, a part of the nationwide Farm Credit System. For more tips on buying and improving rural land, visit TexasFCS.com, or call Michael Biesiada at (936) 344-9400
www.horsebackmagazine.com
www.horsebackmagazine.com
November 2014 •
HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 41
5HDO (VWDWH
,W·V &20,1* 6WURQJ :LQGV %ORZLQJ 5DLQ 5DLQ 6RDNHG )RRWLQJ 6QRZ 6OHHW :LQG &KLOO
*DOHS KLHOG &$%/( 02817
'HVLJQHG 6SHFLILFDOO\ IRU $OO 6WHHO 6WUXFWXUHV
6LPSOH 6WXUG\ ,QVWDOODWLRQ 1R :HOGLQJ 5HTXLUHG
WHY LET WEATHER INTERRUPT YOUR RIDING PLEASURE .. BE PREPARED .. 0RGHOV $YDLODEOH * CABLE MOUNT
Keep Weather OUT . . Let the View IN
* STATIONARY * SLIDE-UP * ROLL-N-VENT
EXCLUSIVELY FROM
A & B Associates
:DWFK 9,'(26 RI $// 02'(/6 3OXV 7(67,021,(6
360.573.1088 info@galeshield.com
ZZZ JDOHVKLHOG FRP
'R <RX +DYH D 6SHFLDO +RUVH IRU 6,5("
Therapeutic Horsemanship
+RUVH PXVW EH a i i i i i i i
Calm, relaxed, and people-friendly Sound in all gaits (W/T/C or W/J/L) Good ground manners Well-trained Mentally mature Usually between 14 & 16 hands Show ring experience a plus
Contact Hockley, Texas- Anthony 281-356-7588, x208; anthonyb@sire-htec.org Richmond, Texas- Renee 281-344-4308; rjamieson@sire-htec.org Spring, Texas- Shayna 281-353-6160; shayna@sire-htec.org
ZZZ VLUH KWHF RUJ
42 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE • November 2014
www.horsebackmagazine.com
www.horsebackmagazine.com
November 2014 â&#x20AC;˘
HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 43
+RUVHELWHV
Horsebites - Con’t. from pg. 10
during the Kentucky Reining Cup April 26, 2014, held at the Kentucky Horse Park and was titled the Cargill’s Nutrena® brand ParaReining Event. The April demonstration was a feature during the 2014 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games Reining Selection Trial and the 2014 Rolex Kentucky ThreeDay Event. With the proven success of the 2013 and 2014 Para-Reining demonstrations USA Reining is looking forward to continuing to work with the AQHA and NRHA to grow this para-equestrian discipline into an international high performance sport. It has already received numerous praises from international athletes, coaches, and judges, interested in participating in this future high-performance paraequestrian discipline. During the 2014 competition year, USA Reining is using newly adapted parareining rules. The new rules are a collaboration of AQHA Equestrians with Disabilities, NRHA and USA Reining. The adapted rules will be continually specialized, revised, and collated with the FEI para-equestrian rules for the 2015 competition year. Members are encouraged to provide feedback for integration of the 2015 rules. For more information about USA Reining, please visit www.USA-Reining. com. If you are interested in the parareining program or would like to provide member feedback please contact Brad Ettleman at Brad@HPowerInc.com.
Webb Brothers Cinch Up Team Roping Average HEBER CITY, Utah (PRCA) – Brothers Rob and Dan Webb pulled off the daily double with their team roping win at the RAM Wilderness Circuit Finals Rodeo Oct. 25. They won the average with a time of 20.7 seconds on three head, which also clinched the year-end title for both Rob, the header, and Dan, the heeler. They also won the year-end title in 2013, and entered this three-day rodeo with a lead of $1,030 over Rhett Anderson and Cole Wilson, who finished fourth in the average. “It’s really exciting to win, and especially to win both the year-end and the average,” said Dan Webb, 30. “There are a lot of good teams in this circuit, and a lot of good rodeos. I feel it’s a pretty good honor to finish first, and we’re proud to have won it.” They also swept the Horse of the Year awards in team roping for the Wilderness Circuit, as Rob’s top horse, Firecracker, won the heading honor while Dan’s horse, Nick, took the heeling crown. “It’s funny, because Rob started my horse and I started his horse,” Dan said. “We raised Firecracker and I took him to college and headed on him. Rob rode Nick in college, but we switched horses several
years ago and it’s worked out great.” Dan rodeoed at Blue Mountain Community College in Pendleton, Ore., and Rob went to Walla Walla (Wash.) Community College. Firecracker has suffered some health problems recently, so Rob rode Hondo at the RWCFR. The brothers had identical runs of 7.2 seconds while taking second in the first round and fourth in the second round. They trailed Taylor Winn and R.D. Abplanalp by .3 seconds going into Saturday’s final round. “I knew we had to go faster than we had the first two rounds,” said Rob Webb, 25. “Taylor and R.D. were going last, right after us, and they’d really been roping well.” The Webb brothers posted a 6.3-second run to put the pressure on.
FEI Classics 2014/15: Ingrid Klimke is the star of Pau By: Kate Green Les Etoiles de Pau, (FR) – The beaming smile said it all. Ingrid Klimke (GER), one of the most popular and talented riders in Eventing, finally secured her first CCI4* victory, at Les Etoiles de Pau (FRA), the first leg of the FEI Classics 2014/15. Klimke has won six team gold medals at Olympic, World and European level, and now
Hassle Free Printing We Take Printing Seriously…Not Ourselves.
5,000 postcards $149 • 10,000 flyers $349 • 1,000 magazines $995 (16 pages, 60# paper)
Call 210-804-0390 for Special Online Pricing!
Visit us at www.shweiki.com
CONTACT TRACY TO SCHEDULE YOUR PLANT TOUR 210-804-0390 t &."*- 4".1-&4!4)8&*,* '03 " '3&& 2605& 03 $"-- 512-480-0860
44 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE • November 2014
www.horsebackmagazine.com
+RUVHELWHV she looks to have found the complete event horse in Horseware Hale Bob, a 10-year-old Oldenburger by Helikon. The Jumping course at Pau is always challenging, and this year was no exception, but the influence of yesterday’s Cross Country time meant that scores were spread out and so riders had some leeway for error. When, to great disappointment, Joseph Murphy’s (IRL) Electric Cruise was eliminated at the final Horse Inspection, Andreas Dibowski (GER) and FRH Butts Avedon moved up into the runner-up spot. Their two fences down did not affect their placing, and meant that Klimke was handed a three-fence advantage, but the spring-heeled Horseware Hale Bob only hit one rail, on the triple oxer. There were only three clear rounds from the 19 finishers, and Arnaud Boiteau (FRA) with Quoriano ENE HN and New Zealander Jonelle Price on the grey mare Faerie Dianimo produced two of them, moving up into third and fourth places respectively. Murphy had some compensation with fifth place, despite three rails down, on a keen-looking Sportsfield Othello. Erin Sylvester (USA) made the long journey across the Atlantic worthwhile with sixth place on No Boundaries and Canada’s Kathryn Robinson secured her first CCI4* completion in style with seventh place on Let It Bee. Nicola Wilson finished eighth and best of the British contingent on One Two Many, a good round just marred by the pair’s misjudgement coming into the double, when they had both parts down.
www.horsebackmagazine.com
“This was a pure show jumping course and you needed an adjustable horse for the varying distances, which wasn’t easy the day after a 12-minute Cross Country course,” said Klimke. “Often the Jumping phase is my biggest fear, but this time I had no worries because I knew my horse is a great jumper.” Klimke was clearly thrilled with her first CCI4* win: “Let’s drink to that!” she said. “I have loved my visit to Pau – it’s a wonderful event with a wonderful crowd.” Ingrid Klimke (GER), 46, is the daughter of the late, legendary Dr Reiner Klimke, an Olympic gold medalist and one of the most decorated Dressage riders in history. Klimke trains Dressage horses with her brother, Michael and has been a key member of Germany’s successful Eventing team since 2000.
ACTHA Puts Customer Service On Steroids Having customer service keep pace with explosive growth challenges the best of companies. In a bold move ACTHA has devised a relatively unique call back system. Should a customer or member call the help line and disconnect because a live service representative is not available to pick up immediately, a return call is made regardless if a message is left...or not. ACTHA’s Customer Service Manager, Andrew McNeill, initiated and
installed the system and after the first month of operation ACTHA’s customer service rating has soared. “ It’s motivating for us to hear the surprise in the voice of someone who disconnected. They are genuinely impressed that we’d care enough to make this effort. But anyone who knows ACTHA knows we do indeed care.” “We couldn’t be more pleased with the results” says Tom Scrima ACTHA’s GM. “A recent follow up survey of hundreds of ACTHA call ins showed over a 98% customer 5 star approval rating.” ( 5 stars equates to a call being handled promptly and the issue being resolved). “It’s dedicated staff members like Andrew that makes ACTHA ACTHA.” Scrima concludes. ACTHA’s Mission To create an enjoyable venue showcasing the wonderful attributes of the great American trail horse and granting them the recognition they so richly deserve. To create a registry open to all breeds and a point designation system which will stay with each horse for its lifetime, thereby adding to their value and distinction. To create and enable humane treatment and employment options for horses in need. Mary-Cameron Rollins Honored with the Premier Equestrian Sportsmanship Award WELLINGTON, FL (USDF) — “Sports-
November 2014 •
Horsebites - Con’t. on pg. 48
HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 45
(QJOLVK
Is it time for a new Horse?
So,
you love horses, you’ve been riding for a while and now you feel like you should have your own horse. Congratulations! This could be one of the most gratifying decisions of your life. Making the right choice, however, is critical to your success and happiness as a horse owner. So before you start shopping, ask yourself a few questions. What are you looking for in a horse? What are your goals with this horse? Where are you going to keep it? Who will be the primary caretaker of the horse? Are you aware of your responsibilities as a horse owner and are you realistic about the cost of a horse initially and long term? Who will be your advocate as you shop for the horse? Are you prepared to make the purchase now? What are you looking for in a horse? If this is your first horse, consider your level of experience. If you are just learning to ride, you will need a horse that is more experienced than you and has a quiet disposition. It’s best not to look for a very young horse for you to “train”. Parents who want a young horse for their child to grow up with need to understand that this is not a puppy or kitten. Young horses can be very reactive and unintention-
ally hurt people. There is no such thing as a “forever horse” that will meet your needs sufficiently for your whole life. That’s not to say that you can’t keep a horse for its whole life. But as your skills develop, it’s probable that you will outgrow your horse’s capabilities and you’ll want another horse that can accommodate your growth. If this is a step up to another horse, make sure you’re clear with your goals. Think about what you’re looking for in a horse. What are the physical qualities that you desire? You might want a very tall horse or possibly a pony to accommodate your size. Perhaps you have your heart set on a particular breed or color. Be careful that you don’t have such a long list of particulars that it is impossible to fill your order. Each requirement shrinks the number of possible candidates. What goals do you have for this horse? Will you want to show the “A” circuit in the Derby classes, ride for exercise, take dressage lessons and compete at 2nd level or simply trail ride? You would need an entirely different type of horse for each of these goals. Be realistic about what you want and what you are capable of. Know where you will keep your horse. If you have property at home, consider the responsibilities. Will you be around to feed your horse consistently? Have a backup plan for when you’re not able to be there. Are you knowledgeable about injuries, sickness, lameness and first aid for horses? Under
46 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE • November 2014
the best of circumstances, horses can get hurt, colic or become lame. Will you recognize these issues and know when to call a vet or farrier? Do you have proper shelter to protect your horse from the elements? Is there a companion animal for your horse? They are herd animals and don’t like complete solitude. What facilities do you need and have? Will you need a groomed arena or jumps to practice with. If you want to ride after work, it’s likely that you’ll also need lights for night riding. If trail riding is your thing, are there safe and inviting places to ride close by? If keeping a horse at home is not an option, check out the horse facilities located nearby so you can see your horse often. Visit them and find out what they have to offer for facilities and services. Make sure they can accommodate your needs and help you with your goals. Is it an atmosphere that pleases you and is safe for your horse? And don’t think that personalities don’t matter. Find a place where you like the people. You will want to enjoy yourself and socialize with other people who have similar interests. Who will be responsible for your horse, his health and equipment? It’s not just a financial responsibility. If your horse is at home, will it be you, your spouse or a hired hand? If it is boarded somewhere and suddenly gets sick or injured, who will physically take care of it while waiting for a vet? Do the stables provide a service for emer-
www.horsebackmagazine.com
gencies, trailering or rehabilitating an injured horse? Some barns leave you fending for yourself when your horse gets sick. Also decide how you will keep up with inoculations, worming, teeth, shoeing and any other special needs for your horse. Have you considered finances? You’ll need a realistic budget for a horse. Then you need to look at the monthly expenses of boarding or keeping a horse at home. If you plan on bringing him home, make sure you have proper fencing and shelter. If you are planning to build something, investigate the cost of the barn or shelter, fencing, and supplies for the upkeep of your horse and property, such as water troughs, tractor, lights, etc. If you’re looking at boarding, consider the facilities and your needs. Do they provide full or partial board? Is there at least one arena with good footing? What is the condition of the barn? Are there restrooms, wash racks and storage for your tack? Are the hay and feed of good quality? Is the fencing safe? Are there services available for training, lessons or emergency vet care? Are there vets or farriers that service the barn? Have you enlisted help to find the right horse? A knowledgeable friend might have your best interest at heart, but does he or she know enough? Perhaps you should hire a horse professional to help you shop. Then hire a veterinarian to perform a pre-purchase exam to determine if there are any health or lameness issues. While no horse is perfect, if you know where the imperfections are, you can make an informed decision on what is a safe risk. Also of utmost importance, be prepared to buy when you start shopping. Don’t pass up a great horse because it’s the first one you looked at. It may be gone by the time you have looked at several more horses. If the horse is a perfect match and suits your needs, buy it! It will be an experience like no other! Cathy Strobel has over 30 years of experience as a trainer, judge and clinician and can be reached at Southern Breeze Equestrian Center at (281) 431-4868 or www.sbreeze. com or email cstrobel@sbreeze.com
www.horsebackmagazine.com
November 2014 •
HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 47
+RUVHELWHV Horsebites - Con’t. from pg. 45
manship means finding the positive in everything,” says USDF Gold Medalist Mary-Cameron Rollins. Rollins, who makes a point of sharing her enthusiasm with everyone she meets, is certainly an expert on the topic. Anyone who saw the talented rider at the 2014 Great American Insurance Group USDF Region 3 Championships and Wellington Classic Dressage Autumn Challenge in Wellington, Florida on October 16-19, 2014, was greeted by her friendly smile and obvious love for competing in the dressage arena. Premier Equestrian, a leading dressage arena and footing company, recognized Rollins’s excellent sportsmanship at the show and selected her as the recipient of the Premier Equestrian Sportsmanship Award. Heidi Zorn, president and founder of Premier, says “We take pride in recognizing riders who are not only competitive, but kind and friendly to other competitors and show staff, put their horse first, and contribute to a positive overall atmosphere. Premier Equestrian is dedicated to dressage and our goal is to provide safe and functional products. We want to promote the well-being of the horse and industry and are proud to sponsor this award.” Rollins was excited to be presented with the Premier Equestrian Sportsmanship Award and the prize of a tri-colored ribbon and a copy of “The Horse Angels”, a recently published novel by Premier Equestrian’s CEO Mark Neihart. “I always try to walk around with a smile and greet everyone even if I don’t know them, and wish them a good day and good luck,” Rollins says, expressing the values she shares with Premier Equestrian. “I find that the sport is challenging enough— we really have to group together and support one another whether we know each other or not. It’s not always about finding the team just in your barn, but finding the team in the sport as a whole.” Rollins, who trains with Oded Shimoni at OS Dressage and works at the popular dressage fashion boutique ShowChic, had a successful weekend at 2014 Great American Insurance Group USDF Region 3 Championships and Wellington Classic Dressage Autumn Challenge both inside and outside of the arena. She and her nine-year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding Abracadabra placed first in the FEI Prix St Georges division on Saturday October 18 as the only horse and rider duo to score above a seventy percent. Premier Equestrian is excited with Rollin’s win, and even happier with her winning attitude. The company manufactures dressage arenas, horse arena footing, horse jumps, barn equipment, and accessories that are affordable and high-quality. Premier Equestrian enjoys supporting its equestrian community by honoring riders like Mary-Cameron Rollins. To see Mary-Cameron’s interview, visit
48 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE • November 2014
KEEPS STOCK TANKS CLEAN BARLEY STRAW TREATMENT FOR LIVESTOCK WATER TANKS • No more dumping and scrubbing tanks • Safe & chemical-free • Keeps tanks clean & drinking water palatable up to 2 months
ZZZ VWRFNWDQNVHFUHW FRP © 2009 Turtle Creek Farm, Springfield, NE 68059
www.horsebackmagazine.com
+RUVHELWHV www.youtube.com/watch?v=-BpFZFz_ okg&feature=youtube.
Israeli Show Jumper Danielle Goldstein Ups Her Game in Europe (Putten, The Netherlands) — Danielle Goldstein has jumped her way to success in international competition, and is using Europe’s unbeatable equestrian atmosphere to take her and her horses to the next level. The Israeli rider continues to make her country proud as her resume of accomplishments and experience in the sport rapidly grows. With the same drive and ambition that she has shown throughout her past twenty years of show jumping, Goldstein has her sights set on qualifying for the 2015 FEI World Cup Finals and earning valuable world ranking points. While in Europe Goldstein will be based out of Waldman Horses in Putten, the Netherlands. The facility is owned by Alan Waldman, who has trained such notable horses as the Olympic champion Big Star, Taloubet Z, and the Pan-American Games champion Romantovich Take One. Goldstein is thrilled to be based out of Waldman’s facility. “His setup allows me to ride many more horses a day than I would be able to in the U.S. The proximity of shows also makes basing in Europe a huge benefit to my horses by allowing for shorter distances to travel and a wide variety of venues. The CSI options in Europe are also endless, which allows me to chase valuable world ranking points,” she explains. The Grand Prix competitor’s upcoming show schedule includes CSIW3* in Poznan, Poland on December 4-7, 2014. “I am attending a number of World Cup qualifiers in an attempt to qualify,” Goldstein says. Despite her international success, Goldstein’s heart remains in Israel giving back to her equestrian community. “I still work with a number of students and trainers in Israel to help promote the sport in and outside of the country, and I am a rider for T.E.A.M. Israel as well,” she says. T.E.A.M. Israel, which stands for The Equine Athletics Mission Israel, is a nonprofit organization that works to cultivate the competitive equestrian community in Israel. The organization’s mission is extremely important to Goldstein. Goldstein plans to finish out the year in Europe as a stepping stone for further victories in 2015. “My goals for the next year are to try to acquire some new mounts in an effort to prepare for the European Championships next August,” she says. “Israel is hoping to field its first team at the European Championships, and my plans include Wellington during the beginning of the year and then returning to Europe to train, compete, and prepare for the European Championships.”
www.horsebackmagazine.com
November 2014 •
HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 49
*HQHUDO
Magnets! Howdy! Welcome to Cowboy Corner. Hey Jack Frost how about saddling up and starting down our way. Now don’t want a frost before mid- December, but a little preview of what’s to come would sure be nice. Love those cool mornings, but still getting hot in the afternoons. Notice how many trailer loads of cattle are seen in the mornings these days? All the hands are tryin’ to get the cow work done by noon before it gets hot in the afternoon. Autumn was supposed to start September 22, but where is it? Come on Jack Frost, time to mount up. Thank you Lord for the September and October rains. Sure was good the day we got it, but would like to spread the moisture, say, a little bit each week. Was payin’ the preacher to make it rain, and he must not have been turnin’ it in until mid-September, when he turned it in all at once. Next year gonna try to turn some in for July and August. Have a gadget been wantin’ to tell ya’ll about so guess now is as good a time as any. I call this gadget a magnetic pick up tool. Looks like a broom handle with a flat round magnet on the end. Saw this tool later with a telescoping handle which doubles the reach over the wood handle. Still later saw this magnet about the size of a ball point pen that also has an extendable
handle.
Now a magnetic tool is really handy workin’ on machinery. Am always dropping a nut or bolt or something. Out in the shop with a hard surface floor retrieving the lost part may not be too tough, but try out in the field. The magnetic pick up, even the shirt pocket model, can save a lot of time, and get things rollin’ again. Found my pen/pencil magnetic tool at an auto parts store and has really been handy. Remember all metals are not magnetic, so if you are working with aluminum, brass, bronze, or stainless steel be extra careful. Since most fasteners used on the ranch are carbon steel the magnetic pick up tool works great. Don’t buy much tack, but was in a tack store the other day lookin’ at bridles. “May I help you”, was the sweet young voice. “Can help myself ”, was the answer, “but you could point me to the bridles”. “What are you lookin’ for”, was next. “I use oil tanned leather bridles with solid brass or stainless steel hardware”. “Oh, all our bridles have brass or stainless hardware”. We’ll see.
50 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE • November 2014
I really wonder if sweet pea knows the difference between brass and stainless and how to tell solid brass and stainless from chrome or brass plated steel. Then there is plated pot metal, shiny, but pure junk. Again, friends, steel is magnetic and just because it looks like brass or stainless, it isn’t always so. To verify solid brass or stainless steel use the pencil/ pen size magnet, or any magnet. Shiny plated pot metal parts are not magnetic either, but can easily be distinguished from solid bronze, brass, or stainless. Due to the environment, harness metal parts have a hard life in the south. Due to excessive perspiration, caused by the high humidity horses really sweat. To keep your snaps snapin’ try cleaning with liquid dish soap and a stiff brush. A stiff tooth brush works really well to clean the accumulated dirt and sweat from the metal parts. Back to the bridles. Told sweet pea she might get a magnet and do a little testing.
HappyTrails...
www.horsebackmagazine.com
www.horsebackmagazine.com
November 2014 â&#x20AC;˘
HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 51
52 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE â&#x20AC;˘ November 2014
www.horsebackmagazine.com