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HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 3
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Steinhauser's
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Angleton Feed & Supply
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Arcola Feed & Hardware
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The Feed Station
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Bastrop Feed & Supply
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Wheeler's Feed & Outfitters
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AG Mart
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Lonestar Ranch & Outdoors
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Clifton Feed
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Chachere Feed Store
Dayton
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Stockman Seed, Feed & Fertilizer
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Gulf Coast Equine & Pet Center
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July 2014 2
HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 5
July 2014
FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK
Dog Days of Summer
H
orse sport is about to be high profile as the World Equestrian Games takes place in France. There, equestrian sport reaches its closest approach to art in this quadrennial exercise By Steven Long in elegance. Exquisite horses compete in events that are seen in horse shows, far removed from the rodeo arena and race track - venues that draw the big crowds here in Texas. We are the first to admit our lack of exposure to this elegant world. Our knowledge comes from years of watching or participating in equally worthy horse sports like trail riding, rodeo, and racing. And yet increasingly we are drawn to watching these elegant horse events. This year, Horseback participated directly for the first time in Texas’ Pin Oak Charity Horse Show with a booth. It certainly won’t be our last foray in that direction. We loved it. We are now in the dog days of summer, and here in Texas it’s just too damned hot to spend much time on the back of a horse. The weather is cruel to both man and beast. Yet come September, when things begin cooling off equestrians from the Rio Grande Valley to the Panhandle will dust off their tack, oil it up, look for dangerous equipment flaws, and then will saddle up and ride. But while making sure your gear is in top condition, don’t neglect your horse as well. We are moving from a time of year that borders on miserable because of the heat, to one that is delightful here – the Texas autumn. From mid September until the middle of June, we’ll put our riding weather up against anywhere else in the country. Year round riding is one of the things Texans love most about our part of the country. So now’s the time to dust off that tack, float those teeth, have your farrier give hooves the once over, and then mount up. Let’s ride.
On the Cover:
Gaby Stephens on Glenlords Mystique, Photography by Cheryl Stephens
6 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 2 July 2014
Cover Story:
22 An Ordinary Girl? - Cathy Strobel
Features:
26 Hunting on Horseback - Steven Long
Lifestyle & Real Estate: 27 Hunting Roundup 34 Real Estate Roundup 36 Keep Land in the Family - Sue Durio
Columns: 8 Horse Bites 18 The Cowboy Way - Cory Johnson 20 Tack Talk - Lew Pewterbaugh 44 Hooves N’ Horses - Jaime Jackson 50 Cowboy Corner - Jim Hubbard
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• 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
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NATIONAL NEWS EDITOR Carrie Gobernatz LIFESTYLE EDITOR Margaret Pirtle 832-349-1427 Horsebackmag@gmail.com EVENTS EDITOR Leslie Greco
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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. 7 Horseback Magazine, P.O. Box 681397, Houston, TX 77268-1397, (281) 447-0772. The entire contents of the magazine are copyrighted July 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
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IF IT ISN’T GOOD ENOUGH FOR OUR HORSES
WE WOULDN’T RECOMMEND IT
FOR YOURS At Triple Crown, we believe in being honest about our horse feed. That’s why we use only the finest ingredients, ingredients capable of bringing out the best in your horse. And now, we can prove it. Take advantage of Triple Crown’s nutrient comparison tool and see how your feed stacks up to the competition. VISIT TRIPLECROWNFEED.COM/COMPARE TO DISCOVER THE NUTRITIONAL TRUTH
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July 2014 2
HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 7
“Horse Bites is compiled from Press Releases sent to Horseback Magazine. Original reporting is done as circumstances warrant. Content is edited for length & style.”
They’re Off - Match Races Return to NDoAC Don’t blink or you’ll miss a race for the title of “The Fastest Horse in Texas” on July 26th at Mansfield Park, part of the Frontier Times Museum’s celebration of the National Day of The American Cowboy (NDoAC), July 25th and 26th. Match race organizer, Lew Pewterbaugh, plans to pit 64 teams of two horses and riders over a 100 yard prepared course. “It’s a ‘turn ‘n burn’ 180o start,” Pewterbaugh says, “ with a 100% payback to the top three, which could mean $1200 to the winner.” It’s fast and furious and the winner also receives a $1395 trophy saddle engraved with the race motto, “Fastest Horse in Texas”. Longhorns add to the entertainment as they race in their own match heats. Races begin at 2 p.m. and continue throughout the afternoon until the winner is determined. NDoAC festivities begin Friday evening at the Frontier Times Museum with a dinner prepared by barbecue master Rick Anderson, musical entertainment and
8 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 2 July 2014
the induction of the 2014 Texas Heroes into the Museum’s Hall of Honor. Two local men, true American cowboy, Bud Fitzgerald, and Texas TV/radio personality, Judd Ashmore, are this year’s honored Texas Heroes. Tickets available for $35 at the Museum prior to the event or at the door. On Saturday, head out to historic Mansfield Park, where the gates open at 1 p.m. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for 5-12 year olds (under 5 free) and a $5 parking fee. Match races start at 2 p.m. with food and drink vendors on hand to keep your energy up while you watch the races or stroll the western marketplace of vendors available to help you find your inner or outer cowboy with a variety of western themed clothing, jewelry and artwork. At 8 p.m. the action moves into the rodeo arena with another South Texas Sanctioned Ranch Rodeo. Cheer on your favorite South Texas and local teams as they compete for the championship and a place in the finals in San Antonio in roping, herding, bronc bustin’ and other events featuring real ranch skills. The little cowhands have their own arena time with the crowd pleasing calf scramble and mutton bustin’. Ranch Radio FM 92.3 will award the winner of their popular “Horse Give Away” online contest in the arena to a lucky cowboy or girl. For more race information, call
Lew Pewterbaugh at (830) 328-0321 or (830) 589-2286 or the Museum, (830) 796-3864, for information on the entire weekend or to purchase tickets. www.frontiertimesmuseum.org.
Show Jumping Legend Sapphire Dead at 19 The United States show jumping community has lost one of its legends in Sapphire, the longtime partner of rider McLain Ward. Sapphire died on Sunday, June 22 due to complications from colic. Sapphire was officially retired from competition in 2012.
Positive reactions to Dressage test event for Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games Conditions at the d’Ornano Stadium, main venue for the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games 2014 in Normandy (FRA), have met with extremely favorable reactions from National Federations and athletes attending the final test events before the Games get underway on 23 August. The focus was on Dressage over two days, with 15 riders from nine nations competing in Grand Prix, Grand Prix Special and Freestyle to test all areas of the organization, including the field of play and training areas, footing, results and timing systems, as well as the back of house.
Phil Collins’ extensive Alamo collection coming home Entertainment icon donates artifacts to the state for protection and exhibition THE ALAMO, Texas – The largest-known private collection of artifacts from the Texas Revolution and the Battle of the Alamo will soon be coming home. Former Genesis drummer, Oscar winner, multiple Grammy Award winner, and Texana collector Phil Collons joined Texas Land Commissioner Jerry Patterson to announce the donation of his famed collection of rarities to the State of Texas on behalf of the Alamo in late June. The private collection was popularized in Collins’ 384-page book, “The Alamo and Beyond” published in 2012. The donation will mean many items will be returning to the cradle of Texas liberty for the first time since the legHorsebites - Con’t. on pg. 10 www.horsebackmagazine.com
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July 2014 2
HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 9
Lauren Sammis and Lombard V Awarded FEI High Score Award in Saugerties Sammis to Travel to U.K. to Train with Kyra Kyrklund WELLINGTON (FEI) - Lauren Sammis and Lombard V, a 10-year-old Danish Warmblood gelding (Lobster-Heidi, Diplomat) owned by Hope Greenfield, were on top of their game at the recent Centerline Events at HITS II in Saugerties, NY. The pair scored a 70.658 and a 71.579 percent for first place finishes in the Intermediaire II on both June 14 and 15, and earned the FEI High Score Award on June 14.
Sammis said her main goal while there is to train and then to compete in some smaller shows. “I plan to get the horses going and get as much consistent help as I can,” she said. “I’ve never been in that situation where I have help every day.” She plans to return in time to compete in Saugerties, NY, in September and hopes to have the scores to participate at Dressage at Devon. Sammis is looking to friends for assistance in subsidizing her European expedition, and will update supportLauren Sammis and Lombard V, also known as ers with exclusive blogs and photos to include them in her adventures as Cinco. Photo by Sue Weakley. she travels to learn from one of the greats. If you are interested in help “I was very, very pleased with him and it was a really solid test,” Sammis said. ing, contact her at lcsammis@gmail.com. Meanwhile, she is packing and pre“The horse is going really well. He’s getting paring for her two months with Kyrklund. 8s on gaits.” “I think I will come a long way, “ Sammis and Lombard V, along with another Grand Prix horse, Whitman, she said. “I’m really, really, really, really exdeparted for the United Kingdom on July cited.” To learn more about Lauren Sam2 to spend two months training with Kyra Kyrklund in West Sussex. Whitman is an mis and Cinco, log onto www.sammissales. 11-year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding com. (Rhodiumr-Camora, Saluut) owned by Jane Suwalsky, and Sammis has had the ride on him for about two months.
10 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 2 July 2014
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endary defeat of Texian forces by Mexican troops under Santa Anna in 1836. Collins’ Alamo collection includes invaluable artifacts like Jim Bowie’s legendary knife, and one of only four rifles left that were owned by Davy Crockett. Collins has Crockett’s leather shot pouch and two powder horns he allegedly gave a Mexican officer before his death. There are letters from William B. Travis and many other invaluable historic documents that shed insight on early Texas history.
Jumping completes final test events for Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™ 2014 CAEN, FR (USEF) - Torrential rain during an afternoon’s final Jumping test event www.horsebackmagazine.com
before the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games 2014 get underway on 23 August gave organizers and athletes the best possible opportunity to see how the footing in both the competition and training arenas at d’Ornano Stadium in Caen (FRA) would perform in tough conditions. The competition was put on hold for just under 40 minutes during the thunderstorm and immediately afterwards to allow the drainage system to do its work. The Ground Jury then restarted the action with 13 left to jump in the first round, and 18 horses went through to a timed jump-off. French star Patrice Delaveau, who won the feature class with Ornella Mail HDC and jumped both before and after the downpour, was impressed with how well the arena surfaces performed. “The main arena was not so good for the first three or four riders after the rain, but then it was absolutely fine,” he said. “For me there was no difference between the first round and the jump-off, it was perfect.” Irish rider Bertram Allen, who picked up a win, two seconds and a third in the four competitions, also felt that the
weather conditions had not affected the footing. “The ground held up really well and horses weren’t slipping at all,” he said. “The results were consistent through the class.” After three days of glorious sunshine for the Dressage and the first day of Jumping, with extremely positive feedback from all the riders about the footing, the organizers welcomed the opportunity to test the arena surfaces under less optimal conditions. “It was a real test today, with incredibly heavy rain,” Laurent Cellier, Sports Director at the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™ 2014 Organizing Committee, said at the end of the four day test event. “It was actually a good thing to have the rain and we learned a lot about the management of the footing, which was very important. Now we know how to maintain the best quality footing for the horses and for the competition. “At the end of the second competition we had a debriefing with the National Federations and got their feedback about the footing, stabling and general organization of the event. The feedback is really good, and the Organizing Committee will be working from now until the Games to Horsebites - Con’t. on pg. 42 July 2014 2
HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 11
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July 2014 2
HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 13
BB
BUSINESS BIT
Triple Crown Nutrition Launches Horse Feed Comparison Tool To Help Consumers Sift Through Crowded Feed Market.
In
an effort to give consumers important information regarding the nutritional makeup of their horse feed brand of choice, Triple Crown Nutrition has launched a feed comparison tool that will provide horse owners with a comprehensive breakdown of the nutritional differences between competing horse feed brands. “Horse feed is more than just protein, fiber and fat. Most any feed mill can assemble feeds that mimic others with the same basic guarantees in the marketplace,” says Eric Haydt, Triple Crown’s Senior Vice President
14 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 2 July 2014
of Business Development. “So we created the comparison chart to help consumers easily compare feed companies sideby-side on other benefits not often understood by many horse owners. We feel parameters like how feeds are formulated, the use of corn and the use of nutrients such as prebiotics, probiotics, organic minerals and yeast cultures are important in differentiating feeds.” The Triple Crown feed comparison tool can be accessed by visiting www.triplecrownfeed.com/compare. With a well-earned reputation for excellent customer service and product transparency, Triple Crown is a rarity in the horse feed market in that, unlike its competitors, Triple
Crown concentrates solely on horse feed. Additionally, Triple Crown’s approach goes beyond the bottom line, as the majority of Triple Crown employees are horse owners and lovers interested in creating products for fellow horse owners and lovers. Triple Crown Nutrition, Inc., headquartered in Wayzata, Minn., is a premium horse nutrition company whose products are primarily sold through independent feed dealers across the United States. Contact: Jessica Drexler, Community Managers Triple Crown Nutrition, Inc. 952-473-6330 jdrexler@triplecrownfeed.com www.triplecrownfeed.com
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July 2014 2
HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 15
RICOCHET:
Riding a Wave of Hope with the Dog Who Inspires Millions By Judy Fridono With Kay Pfaltz
T
his tears to triumph story takes readers beyond the wildly popular YouTube videos of Ricochet to a journey of despair, loss, pain, a closed heart, disappointment, transformation, letting go, re-birth, joy, and finding life’s purpose. “Ricochet’s ability to balance on a surfboard is impressive, but as you read her story, you’ll probably find yourself more enthralled with the way she intuits the needs of the people she meets. In a way, Ricochet is the culmination of 30,000 years of a symbiotic partnership between man and dog. So we should be amazed by her, but not surprised. Because where there’s a need, there’s a dog. And that’s how it should be.” (From the Foreword) - W. Bruce Cameron, author of A Dog’s Purpose. Life is rarely easy. It’s often messy no matter how we try to control it. When our carefully crafted plans break loose, we are left at a crossroad. That was the reality for Judy Fridono and for many of the people you will read about in her book, Ricochet: Riding a Wave of Hope with the Dog Who Inspires Millions (HCI – June 2014 -- $18.95). Ricochet, the beloved service dog who became the SURFice dog and now a worldwide YouTube sensation, came into Judy’s life on a wave of serendipity her life forever changed. After suffering a life of loss, Judy Fridono began training service-dog puppies to make a positive difference in the world. Her ‘puppy prodigy,’ Ricochet, showed boundless potential, surpassing every milestone. But out of the blue, the puppy with so much promise completely lost her focus to train, preferring to chase birds on the beach instead. Regretfully, Judy had no choice but to release Ricochet from the service-dog pro-
16 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 2 July 2014
gram, leaving her disappointed and disheartened. But the presumed detour became a journey of infinite possibilities when Ricochet found her doggie destiny in the most unexpected of places: on a surfboard. When Judy finally embraced Ricochet’s true calling, amazing things began to unfold. Then the four-legged student became the teacher, showing Judy—and the world—just how much good one dog can do. Because of Ricochet’s gift, a teenager with a debilitating spinal cord injury received the much-needed therapy to walk at his high school graduation; a young boy with autism finally found his voice, and a soldier trapped by post-traumatic stress regained his freedom. These, and other inspiring stories, reveal how Ricochet is on a mission to transform countless lives by ‘pawing’ it forward. A true pawtobiography about the healing power of an ordinary dog with an extraordinary spirit, Ricochet is a reminder to stay true to ourselves, celebrate our uniqueness, and appreciate the vast ocean of potential inherent in each of us. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Judy Fridono is a dog trainer with an associate’s degree in service dog training. She is the founder of Puppy Prodigies, a unique program designed to provide a long-term advantage at an early age for service dogs and pets. She is also the guardian of Ricochet, an internationally renowned, award-winning surf dog who has become an inspirational phenomenon, philanthropic role model, internet sensation, fundraising marvel, community advocate, goodwill ambassador, and muse to millions! PRAISE FOR RICOCHET Victoria Stilwell, author of Train Your Dog Positively: “This is a beautiful story from start to finish about the journey of one very special human/canine team and the powerful impact they have had on so many human lives. Ricochet is a truly inspirational read that will not only make you laugh and cry, but also confirm what great love, trust, and dedication can achieve.” Dr. Marty Becker, “America’s Veterinarian:” “If you’ve ever loved an animal, this book is a must-read. It will lift your heart and
keep you turning the pages with its insights about love, loss, keeping your faith, making a difference, and the intangible but incredible connection we have with our animals.” Robin R. Ganzert, PhD, president and CEO, American Humane Association: “Ricochet’s awe-inspiring story is a celebration of the healing power of the humananimal bond. Judy’s personal journey with Ricochet is a moving story of hope with a four-legged champion of compassion who continues to touch many lives. This is a must-read tribute to real American heroes on both ends of the leash!” Marc Bekoff, author of Why Dogs Hump and Bees Get Depressed: “Ricochet is a must-read for everyone who wants to be inspired in a challenging world in which inspiration is much-needed. I’ve never met a dog being like Ricochet and I hope one day to do so. Thanks to Judy Fridono for sharing this wonderful story of a most amazing savior. Ricochet is a very special dog whose story must be circulated and shared globally.” Allen and Linda Anderson, founders of Angel Animals Network and authors of Animals & the Kids Who Love Them: “What a wonderful story! Ricochet is everything anyone could hope for in a dog—friend, coworker, and surf buddy—to name a few of her many qualities. This amazing dog and her incredible human partner found their purpose in life together. They will make you want to spring into action with your own natural talents. This book is a blessing!” W. Bruce Cameron, author, A Dog’s Purpose: “Ricochet will bound right into your heart. Her story inspires us all to find our purpose!” Susan Sims, publisher, FIDO Friendly magazine: “Judy Fridono recounts story after story of lives forever changed, her own included, with the help and presence of her furry canine companion, Ricochet, whose soul purpose is to encourage and comfort anyone who dares to dream of riding the perfect wave. Profound and uplifting, the story of Ricochet is not so much about a dog who surfs but about the impact she has in the lives she touches, one paw at a time.”
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July 2014 2
HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 17
Memoirs of a Mill Iron Wrangler
W
hen I was about twelve or thirteen, my Dad helped run a mounted youth drill team called the Mill Iron Wranglers. We met weekly (or was it weakly?) to practice during the summer months. At the time he was a real stickler for details. It was not unusual to hear him yelling “spacing, spacing, spacing”, to everyone else. Of course he wasn’t yelling at me. I mean come on, I was always paying attention (With the attention span that most thirteen year old boys have). We ran mounted drills and if the spacing wasn’t right, there was potential to have crashes and scrapes. But you can only hammer kids for so long before you start to lose their attention. So Dad was always telling us about the things he and his buddies did to alleviate their boredom. We were constantly trying to ride standing in the saddle, which it turns out…is easier to do in a lope than a trot or walk. Who would have thought that? Roman riding was only attempted once (by me), it helps to have two horses that will move side by side and without fighting (learned that one the hard way). But the one we prob0 YEARS
FOR 6 EXANS
SERVING T
ably had the most fun with was the rescue race. Now these used to be fairly common in gymkhanas, but I haven’t seen it done in a long time! The gist is that a rider runs to the other end of the arena to a person standing on the ground behind a barrel. That person then swings up behind the saddle and you race back…fastest time wins. Seems simple enough… The one most memorable to me was when a kid named Brett and I were partners. I think Dad partnered us because Brett was riding a sorrel two year old and we were the only two brave (dumb) enough to try it. We ran two at a time, I was on the ground (I can remember Brett telling me to keep my legs out of the horse’s flanks. Well duh, thanks for the advice). The race started and here comes Brett. He was the first one down there, so I just grabbed the back of the saddle and let the horse sling me up on his back as Brett swung around the barrel. Now you would think that this was a smooth process, but it turns out that you don’t have much body control like that. My feet went exactly where we didn’t want them to go…in the flanks! This act led Little Sorrelly into a pitching fit. Not hard mind you, just enough for everything to be awkward. BUT, he was still moving toward the finish line crow hopping as he went…AND we were still winning. About halfway down the arena, I started to have thoughts of victory. Heck, I had my feet under control and Brett seemed to be doing fine on the front….
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we might actually pull this off! Next thing I know, Brett throws his hands up in the air and he is gone. I was now just sitting there, for what seemed like hours, reviewing the situation. I was not having any trouble staying on the colt, even from behind the saddle. But I wouldn’t call it riding; I was just sorta hanging on. Little Sorrelly was bucking pretty honest, not very hard and straight toward the other horses. I was bouncing around an awful lot and being a young man, I was painfully aware of where I was landing every time I came down on the back of that horse. After what seemed like ten or twelve jumps (ok, more like two), I decided that there was no point in finishing the race. So I started looking for a soft place to land and bailed. Needless to say we lost, but what hurt the most was my pride. I was competitive and it just killed me that we lost, especially since we were winning at the time. But you never heard such a bunch of hurrahing and razzing that we got from the other kids and from the parents. Even if we didn’t win, we should have seen it through to the finish. If there was a moral to this story, and it had to do with horses; it would be this: If you going to own horses, be committed to the end. Don’t sell out when things get a little tough, the reward of owning and riding horses far outweighs any bumps and bruises you get along the way.
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HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 19
General...
Leather & Heat
J
Horseback Magazine’s Saddle & Tack Editor
uly in Texas: it’s different in different parts of the state. Houston, muggy and hot, San Antonio, somewhat drier and hot, Hill Country, low humidity and hot, West Texas, dry and hot, but wherever you are, hot is the key word. Heat is not a friend to leather, especially hot and dry. You all know I love antique saddles. You won’t ever find a good one in a hot closed space
that gets into triple digits for hours on end. I was visiting what was once a famous paint horse ranch and the guy I was being shown around by wanted me to look at some old saddles. They were in a little, low roofed, unventilated shed. When he opened the door, the heat blew out like a furnace. It must have been 125 degrees inside. The newest saddle in there was probably only 25 years old, and had not been used in at least 5 years. It’s impossible to say how long it had been since the saddle was cleaned and oiled, but certainly not in the last 5 years. Some of the saddles would have been real good collectibles, but all were dried out to the point of not being salvageable. Between mice and moths, the wool was gone on all the saddles, and mice had eaten a lot of the
e k a M e W ! e n i h S u o Y
leather. I like to tell the story of the guy who, in 1870, went to visit San Francisco from Long Island. He traveled cross country by train, then stage. He bought a new Main and Winchester saddle in San Francisco, and had it shipped back to Long Island via sailing ship. It was put into storage in the attic of a Long Island mansion, where the temperature was moderate, and the humidity was apparently just right. When the descendants of the original purchaser put the saddle up for sale in an estate sale still in the original wooden shipping crate, a lucky purchaser bought the saddle for $100.00. The saddle was still in excellent original condition. The purchaser consigned the saddle to a major cowboy collectible sale and it reportedly sold for about
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$57,000.00. It is still not impossible to find really good saddles 100 years old or older, in northern climates. The critical thing in preserving leather is keeping the fibers lubricated. If heat leaches the oil, or whatever emollient is used to keep the leather flexible and out of the leather, dry rot will result. Once the leather has dry rotted, no amount of oil or lubricant will ever bring it back to full strength. The hotter it is, and the less humidity, the more often you have to clean and oil your saddle and tack. Conversely, the more oil you have in your leather, and the more humid it is, the more likely you are to have mildew or mold on your leather. The type of oil or conditioner you use also determines how long between applications. I still like pure neatsfoot oil, a product made from the rendering process that contains pure animal oils. Neatsfoot oil compound is a blend of neatsfoot oil and other oils such as vegetable oil or reprocessed motor oil. If you stick with name brands, you will probably be O.K. with the compound, but if you buy a big jug
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at the horse auction, I wouldn’t use it on anything I cared about! I’ve herd for years that neatsfoot oil rots stitches. Rot! Pure neatsfoot oil will not harm any stitch material, natural or synthetic. Neatsfoot Oil Compound may very well melt your stitches. Lexol, I am told but have no specific evidence, can leach out of the leather at temperatures in excess of 100 degrees. I have used Lexol with success, especially on wet leather. Kali Leather Life is very similar but is supposed to stay intact at higher temperatures. I was in an English barn where they wipe their tack with Lexol after every use, and I must say, besides it being good leather to begin with, I have never seen nicer maintained leather. It seems, if the first statement is true, that Lexol can leach out at high temperature, it doesn’t matter if you keep applying the product. Not many of us take such good care of our tack. I try to tear my old Heiser (1923) down at least once a year and give it a thorough cleaning and oiling. It’s important to not over oil. Paste conditioners like Black Rock Leather-n-Rich, my personal
favorite, I believe are too thick to absorb fully into the interior of heavy saddle skirting. I like to warm the neatsfoot oil to body temperature before I apply it, then, after it has settled into the leather, I apply a coat of Blackrock and buff it out briskly. This seals the pores, slows down the evaporation of the oil, and keeps dust and dirt out of the pores of the leather. All in all, a really good final step to cleaning and conditioning. It really doesn’t matter what one you use, any one that has some kind of wax is good for sealing, or if you’re like my English friends and use a liquid conditioner on a regular basis, the sealer would end up being a sticky mess. Just remember to keep your leather lubricated, just like your skin. When it’s hot, your skin needs moisture, so does your leather.
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.
July 2014 2
HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 21
S
ixteen year old Gaby Stephens may not be your usual horse-crazy girl but she definitely is horse crazy. Not only does she face the usual challenges any teenage equestrian does when faced with a dressage test or cross country course, but she also does it with one blind eye AND with a serious bleeding disorder. The consequences of taking a fall could be life threatening. Gaby’s four-legged partner “Mystic” is an Irish Sport Horse (Egyptian Arab/ Irish draft horse cross) who also suffered an eye injury as a yearling. That injury led the Stephens family to take responsibility for her and Gaby jumped at the chance to train her. Fully recovered and now grown, Mystic shows her appreciation by carrying Gaby over cross country fences and hopefully, onto the Young Riders Team. Like so many other young equestrians, Gaby has Olympic dreams. But with the amazing work ethic and character this young lady possesses, along with her trusty steed and the determination that can only come from within - Gaby truly has a shot at making those dreams come true. I had the good fortune to talk with Gaby and her mother recently to learn more about this pair and I found that her mother, Cheryl, has just as much grit and fortitude as her daughter. Cheryl is the Area 5 USEA camp coordinator. When I spoke with them, they were getting ready to go to the camp where Gaby was going to help the younger riders as a camp counselor.
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By Cathy Strobel
Photo: Terrie Hatcher Equine Photography www.horsebackmagazine.com www.horsebackmagazine.com
Just a Regular Girl?
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July 2014 2014 2 2H HORSEBACK ORSEBACKM MAGAZINE AGAZINE
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HB: Tell me about Gaby’s condition. Cheryl: Gaby was born with a congenital cataract that went undetected causing her brain to turn off communication to her eye, leaving her monocularly blind. The disease is called amblyopia. At 17 months, she had a surgery to remove the lens and replace it with an intra-ocular implant. She also has a form of hemophilia that wasn’t discovered until she was 12. Her blood doesn’t form clots to stop an injury from bleeding. HB: How did she get interested in horses? Cheryl: When she was around 4-6 years old she started showing an interest in horses. When she was 6 ½, she went to her aunt’s house in Alabama and rode her horses. She loved it! When we came home, we enrolled her in riding lessons. I wanted her to have all the experiences that children with two eyes have. It was nothing like the way she rides now, though. It was all very calm and they rode in a line. I had no idea it would become what it is today. We purchased her first horse in San Diego when she was seven. By the time she was 9 we were buying horse property in Liberty Hill, Texas and bringing her horse with us. Over time, she has managed to overcome the depth perception problems and learned to ride in a straight line. I don’t know how she does it. Gaby has always loved Dressage too, but she won’t stop jumping. She is getting ready to start her senior year and her number one competition horse is down. We are hoping Mystic will be able to jump again but Gaby’s willing to switch to Dressage if she can’t. HB: What is her plan for the future at this point? Cheryl: Gaby wants to be an upper level rider and nothing is going to get in her way. Not even having only one eye. When trainers tell her they are not sure how far she’ll be able to go, she just gets ticked off and works harder. She’s not your average child. She is a strong individual and is constantly working. She only has one more year to do juniors and then she moves to the Young Rider, two star level, which is the intermediate level. HB: Has she ever had an accident? Cheryl: She had a crash out on the one star course in March at the upbank and came off. Mystic hurt her back left leg in the scramble. We’ll be having another ultrasound in a couple of weeks to see if she’s okay. HB: What happened to Gaby?
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Cheryl: Her airbag deployed but she was all right. HB: Do you worry about her safety? Cheryl: Of course I do. All the time. -------------------------------------------HB: Tell me what’s going on in your life right now? Gaby: I’m on my way to Area 5’s Young Rider camp for this week. I’ve gone for the past couple of years and since I am almost 17, I decided that I probably shouldn’t go to the camp any more but I could be a counselor. I’ve always had a passion to teach and I’m looking forward to being there for the young kids. And I love working with young horses, too! With my horse, Mystic being injured right now, my dressage trainer allowed me to bring one of her young horses to work with this week. I will only be here for 4-5 days and then I will be going on vacation to Harry Potter World. I haven’t had a legitimate vacation in a long time. I don’t get much time for things like that. HB: What are you looking forward to in the next year or so? Gaby: I’m really hoping to make the Young Rider Team whether it be in dressage or eventing. I never want to sell my horse and I would gladly change disciplines for her if she can’t jump any more. HB: Do you enjoy dressage? Gaby: I do. I fell in love with it as well. HB: What level of dressage are you currently working at? Gaby: We are schooling at second level. HB: What do you find most difficult with dressage? Gaby: There are a lot of complicated
movements. You have to have a good connection with your horse. It’s difficult for the horses. HB: Assuming your horse is okay and you don’t have to switch to dressage, where do you see yourself in five years? Gaby: I would like to be at the three or four star level. I don’t think Mystic can get there but I’d like to get an off the track thoroughbred and work him up through the ranks. HB: How do you manage to gauge your distances while seeing through only one eye? Gaby: It’s been a difficult thing. Distances are difficult to teach myself. I struggle with it. I do a lot of gymnastic work and use poles on the ground to try and adjust my strides from like, three strides to two strides. Mystic will do anything I ask her to and she loves to jump. HB: Is it hard for you to tell if you are on a straight line? Gaby: My center is a little different from everyone else’s. It’s a little bit to the left because I see out of my left eye. HB: What makes you special? Gaby: I’m not particularly special. I’m just different. I don’t want to be treated any different from anyone else, though. HB: Have you had to make many sacrifices? Gaby: Yes and my parents have sacrificed a lot too. I can’t thank them enough and all the people around me who have helped. I’ve had disappointments but I’m not one to give up. HB: I understand you were homeschooled last semester. Gaby: Yes. I went to Florida to work with my trainer, Mike Huber for 6 weeks. I have issues relinquishing re-
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sponsibilities for my horse to someone else. I wanted to be with Mystic and do all the training on her myself. And I really don’t like not riding for 5 days. HB: Does your bleeding disorder scare you? Gaby: Sometimes it does. I’m an adrenaline junkie and sometimes I have to sit back and remember that if I do something dumb I could kill myself. Once I had an accident and my hand was bleeding. I finished the competition before I went to the doctor and when they took off the bandage, my hand was still bleeding even though I had taken my medicine to stop the bleeding. I ended up with nine stitches. HB: What precautions do you take for your safety? Gaby: I wear the normal helmet and safety vest. I carry medicine to control the bleeding if I have a fall and I always wear the information bracelet that we use in eventing with my name, address and medical history. I always have it on. HB: How would you describe yourself? Gaby: I’m just a regular girl with a passion for horses. I like to think that just because I have this disability in my eye doesn’t make me any different, but I am.
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
281.659.5584 July 2014 July 2014 2 2H HORSEBACK ORSEBACK M MAGAZINE AGAZINE
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Hunting With a Horse is Very Different From Field Hunting
By Steven Long
To
say that I grew up with guns is an understatement. From the time I was 12, a .22 rifle or a .38 pistol was more of an additional appendage than a sidearm. Why? Because I was raised on a rice farm, and that requires walking long distances wading in an enormous critter filled watering hole in Southeast Texas. In those treks during the late 1950s and early ‘60s I was likely as not to see wolves, nutria, and enough snakes to populate the reptile house in a big city zoo - no, more than that. Oh yeah, did I mention that sometimes I encountered all those critters in one day – in one morning? Many “hands” went into the field unarmed. Neither I, nor my late father was quite so brave, or should I say foolhardy. We were always packin’ either a rifle or pistol. As often as not, we had to use them too, but were always prudent about what we shot. It wasn’t what I would call hunting. The better term was survival. So I suppose when it comes to primitive field hunting under adverse and wet circumstances, I’m a bit of a waterlogged expert, even 50 years after the fact.
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And the prospect of going through those critter infested fields on horseback would have been pure luxury. If I combine all the elements, shooting, hunting, and doing it all from the back of a steady horse, well that almost nudges the edge of heaven. So let me share a little expertise gained slogging through the bog, and riding a horse through the wilderness. Let’s start with what kind of horse you want to take on a hunting trip. Do you take your own horse, or do you hire livery horses? We’ve done it both ways and opt for the rented animals, but Horseback columnist Jim Hubbard ferries as many as seven horses and three mules from his ranch near Brookshire, Texas to the Elk hunting wilderness of the New Mexico Rockies. The ever avuncular septuagenarian sits astride his palomino Star who is just as at home working cattle as he is bringing up the rear of the grand entry of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo each winter. Hubbard, and just about all of the veteran Horseback hunters we know, all follow the same rules starting with “there are hunters, and there are people supporting hunters.” The first rule of the game is don’t pack more equipment than you need, and be fully acquainted with how the equipment you take with you is supposed to work. Most importantly, ride a dead broke perfectly calm horse that you are fully confident in getting on packing dead meat (deer, elk, or hog) behind the saddle. As important as anything is “legging up” your horse for the rigors of the wilderness long before you get there. Shoe your horses well in advance of the trip. You sure don’t want a freshly shod horse with sore feet fighting you on a wilderness mountain trail. In Hubbard’s case, he rides his horse for three hours from the New Mexico base camp to the wilderness hunting camp. Those Rocky Mountain trails are not for the timid and sure aren’t for a “pasture ornament.” Riding out packing meat and gear can be daunting. And about that pack saddle you bought. Don’t you think it might be a good idea to learn how to load it in the comfort of your own barn or corral? Remember; keep the weight on each side within three pounds of the weight across the backbone. We recently read a great line in a story for wilderness hunter wannabes. “Don’t expect your horse to know what a pack saddle is when it is standing at the trail head.” That is the last place you want to see a rodeo. Hunting rules and regulations vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction, state to state. The old saw, ignorance of the law is no excuse in court is as true today as it was the day young George Washington chopped down that cherry tree. And speaking of trees, it’s not a good idea to tie your horse to one because lightening can target a tree and run directly to the tethered horse. Finally, do not take a problem horse on the trail ever, much less take him hunting. You will spoil the event for yourself, and as likely as not, for others on the trip as well. www.horsebackmagazine.com
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HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 27
Lifestyle...
If
you are a normal guy, you probably know a bit about a lot of things, and you have a special thing or two that you are really good at. So if you want a special hunt this season, why don’t you find a place that specializes in really good hunts. A place that knows not only where the best hunting spots on the mountain are, but can also guide you to a hunting experience that will last a lifetime. Elk Camp Outfitters in Colorado is the place hunters in the know head for when the air gets a chill and the leaves turn from green to gold. If you are looking for an ATV hunt from the side of the road or a wheat field don’t call them.
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However, if you are looking for a go-to-outfitter for a rifle, muzzleloader, and archery needs , then you have the right place. They cater to the hunter that enjoys the outdoor experience and doesn’t mind working to find the game. Their massive permitted hunting area gives you unlimited opportunities at bagging your game. From first time hunters to the seasoned veterans, they strive to ensure each hunt is better than your last. And did I mention the food - this is one hunt where no one goes hungry, from the first night you check into the lodge, until the next morning when you pack into the elk camps on gentle horses that even the most novice horseman can ride.
Once at camp you will have time to settle into your home for the next five days. Tents have cots and mattresses for your comfort. You just bring a sleeping bag. The wood stove in each tent ensures warmth even on the harshest of autumn nights. Your days will be spent hunting for elk, deer or bear using a variety of methods from calling, to spot and stalk. Make this hunting season the one to remember. Give a call to Ashley at Elk Camp Outfitters, just out of Steamboat Spring Colorado. 970-846-6326 www.elkcampoutfitters.com www.horsebackmagazine.com www.horsebackmagazine.com
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feed most frequently Wildlife Attractions will at night. That is where second type of feeder FEEDERS BRING the comes into play for the THEM IN CLOSE outdoorsman. This second type
Few animals conjure up thoughts of boundless freedom like a herd of deer. These graceful animals are not easy to see up close, and for hunters who have just a few weeks to bag one; or for the outdoor enthusiast who would like to capture one on film, getting them to stop at a selected spot is the work of a wildlife feeder. Deer feeders play an important role, not only to lure deer near a stand or a desired camera area, but they also help during crucial times when native foods aren’t plentiful. Today there are basically two types of feeders on the market. First is the gravity flow free choice feeder. These feeders allow the animals to eat as much as they want and when they want. They allow for dominant and nondominant animals to take their turns at the table. They are good feeders for supplementing the natural food sources in hard times. Like most wildlife, deer are nocturnal animals and
of feeder has a programmable timer. The timer can be set to dispense feed several times a day typically, during the day light hours. This gives the outdoorsman a better chance of seeing critters on his time schedule instead of the critters schedule. This timed feeder will limit some of the animals from feeding, but will give the outdoorsman a better chance of seeing animals. Animals will even get accustomed to the feeding times and the noise of the scattering grains becomes a dinner bell. Many people even add bird seed to these feeders for our feathered friends. Karl Harman, at Ultramatic Feeders in Hockley, has been selling
and helping hunters and landowners for years with their feeder needs. “Land management is easier when you have the right kind of feeder,” he explained, “ In the last few years, the technology in feeders has changed. Feeders are more reliable and varmint resistant. Manufacturers are making feeders lower to the ground allowing for easier and safer filling. The technology in automatic timed feeders has changed. This has allowed these lower profile feeders to broadcast feed over a wider area .” From protein grains to simple corn, feeders work only if you do you job of making sure they are placed in areas that are easy for deer to reach. Deer feeders range in price according to size, style, and materials used. If you are interested in deer hunting, or wildlife watching, you could really benefit from using a good feeder that will attract the animals target range. Ultramatic Feeders represents several manufacturers of low profile, easy to fill feeders. For More info on a wide range of low profile, easy to fill feeders, contact Ultramatic Feeders: 713-694-7553 Hwy 290 @ Heager Rd.
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While stands range from fiberglass to wooden boxes, the Pot Belly Deer Stand is the one we found that allows you the most comfort, whether you are hunting solo, or have someone sharing your space. With sixty-six percent more room than a standard box blind, the room is where you need it - from shoulder to knee height.
TRIPOD DEER STANDS A tree stand requires a tree, but a tripod stand can be set up in any location, and gives you the height you need for surveying the surrounding area. Supported on three legs, this stand is as versatile as it is safe. No building is required, just pack into the back of your truck or SUV and head out to the hunt. Made of steel, and a swivel seat attached to a platform, this simple stand can make hunting fun. South Texas Tripods and Feed are one of the largest dealers in the area for tripods. With different sizes to choose from, give Chuck a call at (281) 288-4422 and let him direct you to the one that will work best for your hunting needs.
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HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 33
REALTOR Roundup TAMMY FOREMAN REALTOR Hodde Real Estate Co. 112 W. Main Street, Brenham, TX (O): (979) 836-8532 (C): (979) 451-2945
DEITRA ROBERTSON REALTOR Deitra Robertson Real Estate, Inc. 38351 FM 1736 Hempstead, TX (O): (832) 642-6789 (C): (832) 642-6789
DEE ANN BOUDREAUXREALTOR Texas First Real Estate 1116 FM 109 New Ulm, TX (O): (903) 322-3379 (C): (979) 583-7305
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5/20/2014 5:35:56 PM HORSEBACK M AGAZINE 35
Real Estate by Sue Durio
How to Keep Land in the Family
W
hen it comes to keeping the ranch in the family from generation to generation, Rolan Petty’s experience is much like that of many farm and ranch families. After college, two Petty brothers returned to the Sweetwater farm and ranch operation, but two chose other career paths. For many families, that might have created a dilemma when the time came to transfer ranch ownership. But with planning and communication, the Pettys have avoided problems. “After we got out of college, my parents started talking with us about who was interested in continuing the family operation, and who wasn’t. Two of us were, and while two weren’t, they did want to stay connected to the farm,” says Petty. “About two years ago, my dad started looking at ways to slowly move the land from them to us. They gifted the four of us the property in one transaction, with each of us having equal portions,” he says. His parents maintained ownership of the home, some of the land and the operating equipment; upon their death, those assets will transfer to a trust, through which the remaining land assets will be equally shared among the four siblings, while the operating equipment will go to the two brothers running the business. Gifting and trusts, as well as limited liability corporations and partnerships, are among the options parents can consider to ensure their land stays in the family. Regardless of the strategy, however, communication and planning are the underlying keys to successfully keeping property in the family across the generations. Whether you want to pass down the ranch, a country home, the family hunting cabin or a weekend river getaway, here are some factors to consider.
Making the Transfer Gifting is a tax-wise way to pass down ownership in a recreational property or farm tract. Each parent may gift up to $13,000 annually in property value to each heir tax free. So, in the case of the Petty family, for example, the parents could gift a total of $104,000 annually (4 sons times $13,000 from mother and $13,000 from father). “I encourage parents to begin this early on if gifting will not adversely affect their finances and quality of life,” says Dr. Wayne Hayenga, professor emeritus and Extension specialist with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, who has doctorates in both agricultural economics and law. Taxes may be avoided, and the children can begin learning and working together in their new ownership roles. Options for the legal structure read like an alphabet soup of acronyms — LLPs, LLCs, S corporations. Then there are other forms of ownership, as well: trusts, family trusts, life estates, tenants in common, close corporations and more. Each entity has its own pros and cons and shouldn’t be entered into without extensive research, discussion and the advice of legal counsel. (See “Useful Resources.”) Ultimately, the best approach, says Hayenga, is to “let the living people — the heirs — handle things as they wish, rather than being restricted by decisions made by the deceased.” (Reprinted from Landscapes Magazine, Winter 2012, https://www.farmcreditbank.com/landscapes-magazine)
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Horsebites - Con’t. from pg. 11
upgrade some details and finalize preparations for riders, horses, spectators, media and all the participants at the big party in Caen.” The two Dressage days earlier in the week and the Jumping action were not open to the public, but in order to test crowd flow, the general public were able to download invitations to the two competitions. Enthusiastic spectators flocked to the venue, keen to watch some action in what will be the main venue for the Games. “The Jumping test event has been a great success,” FEI Jumping Director John Roche commented. “Both the infrastructure and the venue have been prepared to the highest standard and will create a wonderful setting for the World Equestrian Games. It was very encouraging to see so many spectators in the tribunes yesterday and it created a really super atmosphere. It was a clear indication of the popularity of the sport in the region, demonstrating that Normandy is an equine heartland. “We’re very much looking forward to seeing the specially designed fences that will be used at the Games. The designs look fantastic and have a real Normandy flavor, but the fences won’t be unveiled until Games time. There’s no doubt that everybody is doing their absolute best to make sure that the Games will be the very best.” Tim Hadaway, Director of the FEI’s Games and Championships Department, has been working closely with the Organizing Committee for the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™ 2014 since his appointment just over a year ago. “This has been an incredibly useful, productive and positive week and a lot has been learnt,” he said. “Yes there’s work
Photo by Laura Dante Photography / VHT Studios to do, but we’ve all seen that the venue here in d’Ornano is in very good shape.
Blackburn Designed Sheik Island Farm Offered For Sale Wellington, FL - June 27, 2014 - Located in the heart of Florida horse country in Dade City between Orlando, Ocala and Tampa, Sheik Island Farm is a world-class equestrian estate located near major equestrian competition venues. The property now offered for sale, was built by Blackburn Architects in 1997 for a family of passionate equestrians. John Blackburn, who leads the award-winning equestrian architectural firm, is the author of Healthy Stables by De-
sign. He incorporated his signature aerodynamic ventilation and hurricane proof features into the high-end, 350-acre equestrian facility. Sheik Island Farm was designed as a training and show facility for hunters, jumpers and polo and includes a luxury barn and two homes. Special features of this equestrian complex designed to prevent injury to horse and rider include rounded corners, an oversized stall and an observation area to facilitate husbandry. The property is nestled at the bottom of LeHeup Hill, one of the highest elevations in Florida, and borders two lakes, Lake Pasadena and Lake Buddy. The farm was designed for tropical weather with deep overhangs and continuHorsebites - Con’t. on pg. 48
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HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 43
Hoof Health...
F
ear of P3 rotation - the painful tearing of the coffin bone from the hoof wall due to laminitis - looms large in the minds of many of those confronted with this dreaded pathology. Conventional therapy often aims to stabilize P3’s position to prevent the bone from plunging through the sole – and mitigating suffering through remedies such as “heart bar” shoes, “support” pads, drugs, lasers, resection of the hoof wall to remove any “shear forces” - and even tenotomy to prevent downward forces on the bone caused by the flexor tendon. But all are doomed to fail in my opinion. Why? Because ‘P3 rotation’ is neither the cause nor the source of any pain! I wish to present a new weight bearing theory that provides a different perspective concerning P3 rotation or penetration. The horse is best served if we simply get down to the business of healing through natural hoof and horse care strategies! PATHOPHYSIOLOGY OF P3 ROTATION P3 rotation follows from a corruption
The Myth of P3 Rotation of the inner hoof wall’s lamellar “attachment and release” mechanism during laminitis. Dr. Christopher Pollit, Queensland University, has implicated (at the onset of laminitis) the proliferation of metalloproteinese enzymes at the basal membrane interface with the epidermal leaves. These enzymes are typically present to help break down the bonds during keritinization so that the hoof wall can move past P3 during normal growth. But during laminitis, this breakdown occurs faster than the cell-mending keritinocytes can repair the broken attachments. When this occurs, P3, purportedly under the full bore of the horse’s body weight, is said to rip (“rotate”) painfully away from the hoof wall and if the trigger is severe enough, “founder” or penetration of the sole may occur. What I would like to bring into this discussion is the coffin bone’s relationship to: 1) the “whole horse”, particularly the skeletal superstructure; 2) how P3 is actually supported within the capsule; and 3) weight bearing forces — specifically, whether downward compressional forces actually impact the bone during support. P3 AND THE WHOLE HORSE P3 lies at the bottom of the horse’s skeleton and is manipulated principally by the deep digital flexor and extensor tendons. Much has been written about the biomechanics of P3 movement in response to these tendons, and the muscles and nerves that activate and propel the whole system. So I won’t go into detail here except to emphasize that muscles, tendons, and nerves are the driving force — not P3. Instead, let’s look at the weight of the entire skeleton. It constitutes roughly 10 percent of the horse’s total body weight.
The 210 bones that comprise the horse’s skeleton only constitutes about 10 percent of the horse’s entire weight.
44 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 2 July 2014
This cross section can give readers a the hoof.
The balance consists of water and soft tissue mass (e.g., muscles, fat, tendons, etc.). Since the skeleton is such a “light weight”, how much of the horse’s entire body weight does it actually support? And what about P3, since his entire weight is ‘supposedly’ pressing down upon it? Before answering, let’s first take a look at how P3 is supported inside the hoof. Between the hoof and the capsule is the fibrous connective tissues (leaves) as well as a pressurized hydraulic system operating within the vascular system. An extensive network of valve-like shunts connect the arterial and venous channels, enabling pressurized blood flow to bypass the capillary beds, insuring continuous circulation, even during acute laminitis. As well, the fibro-fatty digital cushion provides yet another “brace” for resisting rotation in its position beneath and behind the digit. Most significant is the thick layer of moist, subcutaneous tissue that envelops the entire digit above and below the coronary band. As well, the bottom of the digital cushion is reinforced by the highly elastic frog corium. Arguably, the entire environment within the capsule is a very cushy affair! The extensor and major flexor tendons - and their points of insertion in P3 - further brace the entire digit. The action of the muscle and tendon groups is, of course, to manipulate the bones and joints of the horse, including the digit, so that the hoof can provide support and disengage for flight. It’s important to emphasize that the digit is not moving the muscle-tendon groups. It merely provides a “neutral” framework for them to act upon. It would appear that as long as there is muscular tension, the muscle and tendon groups are doing all the work, including weightbearing. So, I conclude that P3 is also along for the ride. It basically sits down there in a state of relative “weightlessness” until acted upon by the muscle-tendon groups. So, what happens with P3 during laminitis or during P3 rotation? Or, penetration? Somehow glimpse inside the bone has found its way through the sole! hooves - Con’t. on pg. 42 www.horsebackmagazine.com
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HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 45
Hoof Health...
tissue mass surrounding P3 also descends, and with P3 firmly in its grip, the bone may now be tilted anteroposteriorly due to normal interphalangeal joint rotation - following the loss of indirect connectivity to the hoof wall. It is in this position, relative to the flat, weakened sole, which the latter may “split” along its sharp, distal edge and allows the coffin bone to pass through the sole. The lamellar and solar attachment mechanisms have This horse’s hoof has grown a protective lamellar But more often than not, been completely destroyed in the hoof of this four- wedge and, if managed under the protocols of Natu- this does not happen. year-old Quarter Horse suffering from acute laminitis. ral Horse Care, will recover just fine. Often, the hoof attempts to “build” a “mound” of If the causality of the laminitic episode is arrested, the pain will go away. And protective horn (lamellar wedge) over this THE MYTHOS OF P3 ROTATION many horses become sound even if their edge (located just forward of the pointFirst of all, I think any pain in conjunction white lines are still “stretched”. But, if of-frog) to spare itself the consequences with laminitis is from inflammation the trigger is not eliminated, the pain and (such as infection) of being opened to (heat and swelling) of the dermal lamina “stretching” will continue along with the the environment. The soft tissue mass due to toxicity caused by triggers such characteristic “lamellar wedge,” “dropped remains, essentially, biodynamically as unnatural diets or pharmaceuticals. sole”, and exaggerated “laminar rings” “operational” and this normally precludes P3 from piercing the sole. During laminitis, the Supercorium (the around the outer wall. We should not obsess with P3 The sole, like the hoof wall, is vascular network) is too sick to create rotation or penetration. Instead, get right normal attachments. Instead of a “tight” both sloughing and growing away from the down to the business of naturalizing white line formed between the hoof horse. Its arched, concaved conformation the diet, living conditions, and hoof wall and the sole, it is poorly formed. is now gone. And the weight-bearing, soft care. Nature will then take care of the
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rotation. If he is shod, we must remove his horseshoes— as his barefoot movement unleashes latent, internal healing forces. The fixed shoe suppresses them by weakening the structural integrity of the hoof, deforming its growth patterns, and preventing natural wear. Nails, especially those driven into the water line, or worse, the white line, alert the Supercorium to environmental intrusion, causing it to contract to protect itself. No doubt, circulation is also compromised. In short, P3 rotation is not the real threat. The horse simply needs to grow a new hoof to protect its sensitive structures from environmental intrusions, to enhance its hydraulic and cushioning systems, and to facilitate natural movement. It will do this entirely on its own, if we allow it.
Jaime Jackson is the author of 5 books, a hoof care professional & natural horse care consultant. He is the founding member of the non-profit equine advocacy organization, Association for the Advancement of Natural Horse Care Practices (www.aanhcp.net) & the principle instructor for the Institute for the Study of Natural Horse Care Practices (www.isnhcp. net), which he and his business partner, Jill Willis, created in 2009. He can be contacted at jacksonaanhcp@gmail.com and his website is www.jaimejackson.com
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HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 47
Horsebites - Con’t. from pg. 42
ous ridge venting. Plus, the barns are situated into an existing stand of live oaks and on the edge of an old orange grove, offering shade on hot days. The property includes both a 10-stall barn, originally for polo ponies, and a 16-stall barn, built for hunters and jumpers. There is an outdoor arena and a stick and ball field[. Other amenities include tack rooms, restrooms, separate vented storage rooms, riders’ lounge, locker room, a machine shop and spacious office with reception. The barns are surrounded by paddocks and turnout of various sizes. For more information about this property, contact Kimberly Wilson of Premier Sotheby’s International Realty, (813) 810-0042.
Healthy Stables by Design is a museum-quality coffee table book that illustrates Blackburn’s approach to equestrian architecture through dramatic photography and compelling writing. It introduces the concepts of aerodynamic ventilation, strategic natural light and passive solar heating and cooling into significant horse barn designs ranging from exquisite to functional. All author profits from the sale of Healthy Stables by Design have and will continue to be donated to various equine charities including Hooved Animal Humane Society, PATH International’s Wounded Warrior Project, Reins Therapeutic Riding Program, The Equine Rescue League and many more. In 2013, Blackburn completed a total of 18 events in two months and raised
over $7,000 for various horse charities. John Blackburn serves as the President and Senior Principal of Blackburn Architects, a Washington, D.C., firm. He has 35 years of expertise in architecture and 30 years of work focusing specifically on equestrian architecture with more than 160 horse farm designs to his credit. His award-winning work is widely known for its beauty, functionality and sustainability. Blackburn has built facilities for racing, polo, dressage, hunters and jumpers and Quarter Horses in a variety of climates and evolving site conditions and he has been featured in dozens of equestrian, architecture and luxury lifestyle publications.
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HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 49
General...
Random Thoughts! Howdy!
Welcome to Cowboy Corner. Finally the rains came. Thank you Lord. Ranching in the Brazos River Bottom without moisture is not only hard, but almost impossible. Same for everywhere I have ever been, but way up north from here snow melt in the early spring does provide some moisture for spring forage growth. Last month I described some ol’ down home health aids used around the ranch, bleach and lime. With all the rain this late spring and early summer my rain gauges have gotten a workout. Installed years ago, the gauges almost died before they saw much use. During 2010 – 2012 could have used a whiskey jigger for a rain gauge and never had to pour it out. Along with using the rain gauge is algae growth kinda’ like, “slime in the ice machine”. To keep the gauge clean use about a teaspoon of bleach. Pour in the bleach, swirl around, then pour out. The bleach residue will keep the rain gauge clear enough to read from the pickup. Thoughts about rain gauges, which I think is an important tool in forage production. How much rain a hay field has had, to me is important to know, when making fertilizer decisions. Fertilizer is a very costly forage production necessity and decisions regarding application, and reapplication need to be made based on availability and potential moisture. Everybody wants to
50 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 2 July 2014
fertilize just before a rain, not a frog strangler, but a moderate, slow, soaking rain. Little fertilizer and a moderate rain, and the Brazos Bottom will “green up” quickly. ‘Lots of talk about hay this spring. Glad we have somethin’ to talk about. ‘Like to share some random thoughts about hay. After a dry spell, wet winter and some early spring rain the weed crop reached the “bumper” status. Remember the weeds come out first in spring. Remember all the yellow flowers in the pastures early this spring? Well, if your friendly hay man didn’t spray the hay fields and baled the flowers then the pasture where the hay is fed will be planted with yellow flowers for next spring. The week seed passes through the animal, comes out in the manure, and with a little rain a new crop of weeds. Remember the ol’ forage formula, seed + nutrient + water = growth. The cleanest hay fed to my cows comes from the rye grass fields made in early spring, or the rice fields in late summer. Next cleanest, or free of weeds, comes from the hay fields sprayed with a broad spectrum herbicide. I don’t like to feed just pasture hay or side of the road hay. Now my favorite hay for cattle is the cane type
hays often referred to as “hay grazer”. The canes are an annual plant, formed, cultivated and fertilized, and make lots of forage per acre. Due to the sugar content (remember ribbon cane syrup and molasses) cane hay is a cattle favorite. As the hay dries some fermentation must occur and soon a “cattle cocktail” is made. The take home message is buy the cleanest hay you can find. The cleanest hay is not going to be the cheapest initially, but will save a lot of expense and work in the future. Another random thought is about hay nutrients. Hay sellers, God bless them all, tout their wares as highly fertilized, highest protein, weed free, and so on. The well known fact among agronomist and forage experts is that hay nutrition is directly related to the stage of maturity of the plant when cut. Less than full maturity plants, or before seed head formation have more nutrition than mature plants. Want to really know about your hay, go get a hay sample test. The ol’ sayin’, “you pay your money, you take your choice” must have come from the ranch.
Happy Trails...
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