Horse & Rider February 2018

TOP TIPS FOR HEALTHY HOOVES

Today’s Western Horse Life

SENIOR HORSE SECRETS • MAINTAIN HIS FITNESS • CUTTING-EDGE HEALTH CARE • CHOOSE A RETIREMENT FACILITY • AND MORE

WHAT IS ‘WORKING EQUITATION’ (AND IS IT FOR YOU?)

BLIND HORSE? HERE’S HELP

February 2018

KEEP YOUR OLD HORSE HAPPY, HEALTHY IN WINTER

MANAGE YOUR REINS!

&

WINTER GETAWAY TUCSON’S TOP GUEST RANCHES

HorseandRider.com

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CH A NGE S I N H AY I NC R E A S E C OL IC R I S K

B Y 10 T I M E S Learn your horse's risks and get tips to help at SmartPak.com/ColicRiskQuiz

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02.18

CAN’T KEEP YOUR PENSIONER AT HOME? FIND A SAFE, HAPPY PLACE FOR HIM BY FOLLOWING THE STEPS IN OUR HANDY GUIDE, WITH TIPS FROM TWO SENIOR-CARE EXPERTS; PAGE 56.

CO N T E NTS

Features

PHOTO BY ABIGAIL BOATWRIGHT

44

50

30 Is the New 20 Advances in equine health care have extended your horse’s potential life span.

Learn what it can mean.

Fast, Furious, & Precise!

Working equitation? It’s the hot new sport finding ardent fans among Western-horse enthusiasts in the U.S.

BY BARB CRABBE, DVM

BY JENNIFER FORSBERG MEYER

56

62

Rest & Relaxation Choose just the right retirement facility for your deserving senior horse with this step-by-step guide.

Arizona Trails Snow on the ground? Give your trail horse a break, and enjoy the rustic elegance of a Tucson guest ranch.

BY ABIGAIL BOATWRIGHT

BY KENT AND CHARLENE KRONE

COVER PHOTO BY MALLORY BEINBORN

February 2018 / 3

CO N T E NTS

In Every Issue 8 From the Editor

LEARN TO MASTER REIN MANAGEMENT AT HOME AND YOU’LL BE READY TO RIDE ONE-HANDED AND TAKE YOUR BEST SHOTS AT A MOUNTED SHOOTING EVENT; PAGE 33.

HorseLife

Ride&Train

20 Travel Arizona’s Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show.

33 Private Lesson Rein management for mounted shooting.

24 Health Winter care tips for your older horse.

36 Winning Insights Good care will let your senior horse shine.

26 Solutions Therapeutic tools to comfort your horse.

38 Trail Insights Healthy-hoof tips for your trail horse.

28 Style Warm, handsome outerwear options.

41 Conformation Clinic Aged AQHA geldings.

11 Inspired Rider 14 Saddle Chat 72 My Collection

30 Horsekeeping Help your blind horse live his best life.

4 / HorseandRider.com

TOP PHOTO BY JENNIFER PAULSON; BOTTOM PHOTO BY MALLORY BEINBORN

02.18

Photo credit: Linda Kennon/Cassady

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VOLUME LVII, NUMBER 2

S T O R E Editor-In-Chief JENNIFER PAULSON

ESSENTIAL

Senior Editor JENNIFER FORSBERG MEYER Assistant Editor NICHOLE CHIRICO Trail-Content Editor RENÉ E. RILEY Contributing Editors BARB CRABBE, DVM JENNIFER VON GELDERN BOB WELCH

Vice President/Group Publisher DAVID ANDRICK dandrick@aimmedia.com

Art Director ADAM PURVIS Contributing Photographer MALLORY BEINBORN

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Editorial Inquiries (303) 253-6409 HorseandRider@aimmedia.com

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50 Best Arena Exercises and Patterns: Essential Schooling for English and Western Riders

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Riders, trainers, and instructors of all disciplines are always looking for ways to keep boredom at bay—and that’s where this handy guide can save the day. 50 Best Arena Exercises and Patterns provides a terrific collection of upbeat ideas for essential schooling, adding variety and challenge to everyday workouts.

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PREPARE . PERFORM . RECOVER

FABRIC

FROM the EDITOR

Super Seniors WHEN BOB AVILA pulled Juarez Whiz out of the stall to photograph for this month’s Winning Insights on caring for the senior performance horse (page 36), I was puzzled. How was I going to tell Bob—expert on all things performance horse—that we couldn’t use a gelding that wasn’t any older than 8 in the senior photo shoot? I mean, yes, technically, in the arena, “JW” competes at the senior level—that is, horses age 6 and older. But he couldn’t be a senior, generally a horse over 15 years of age.

I searched for a tactful way to raise my question. Bob chooses each horse specifically for each topic during our annual shoot; but why would he pick a non-senior for this piece? Did I miscommunicate the topic? “Wow, Bob, he looks great,” I said, then stuttered, “how old did you say he is again?”

“He’ll be 16,” Bob replied.

My jaw hit the floor. No way was this shiny, fit, well-muscled, downright youthful gelding old enough to be a senior. But I should’ve known better. Not just because Bob knows his stuff, but because everything about senior horses, how we care for them, and the longevity of their lives is evolving.

CHANGING VIEWS The stereotype of the senior horse as the swaybacked pasture ornament has been, well, largely put out to pasture.

Yes, there are retirees who enjoy R&R on acres of green grass and mosey from paddock to water tank, then take a nap. If your horse is ready for this life phase, you’ll want to turn to page 56 to read our step-by-step process for choosing an excellent retirement facility. There’s definitely a time in 8 / HorseandRider.com

Paint and horses younger and older than he lead fulfilling, active lives.

HOW CARE PLAYS A ROLE Cold, wet winter weather keeps Old Paint on my mind, and I’m sure you spend more time thinking about your senior horse’s care this time of year, too.

We pay close attention to hair coats and ribs, check that their drinking water is warm enough, ensure that they’re eating, and manage blanketing as necessary. It’s all stuff we think about with our younger horses, but with a little more vigilance for our older equines.

On top of at-home maintenance, advances in feeds and veterinary care play pivotal roles in our horses’ longevity. Contributing veterinarian Barb Crabbe lists five of those senior-horse game-changers beginning on page 44.

It’s true: 30 is the new 20! Thanks to major advances in senior-horse care, horses like Juarez Whiz (above) can live long, active lives.

every horse’s life for that level of pampering, care, and rest.

But we consistently read and write about horses performing well into their teens…20s…and yes, sometimes even 30s. Take “Still Going Strong” from the July 2016 issue, which highlighted Bald N Shiney, then 22 years old, and his return to the show pen after his owners decided retirement just didn’t agree with the spry horse. Or “Seniors That Still Have It,” from last year’s senior issue, where we shared the stories of six horses, ages 17 to 28, that lead active lives as lesson mounts, trail companions, and show-pen winners.

Even in my own horse life, I never thought my kids would still be riding Old Paint into his third decade. But thanks to new ways of thinking and close attention to seniors’ needs—nutritionally, physically, and mentally—Old

TELL US ABOUT YOUR SUPER SENIOR Our “Gallop Poll” (page 16) confirms our research that most of you own some pretty fantastic senior horses.

We want to hear about them! Send us photos, share your stories, and tell us what you’re doing to take extra care of your senior mounts. We’ll share some of these letters and photos in upcoming issues. You can send them to the email address below.

You can reach Jennifer Paulson at jpaulson@aimmedia.com.

TOP PHOTO BY MARC LAXINETA, DVM; HEADSHOT BY MALLORY BEINBORN

Not all senior horse feeds are created equal.

And no one knows that better than 31-year-old Boo. He was always an easy keeper. But at age 25, his dental condition had declined to the point that he no longer was getting the nutrients he needed out of his winter hay. He quickly dropped over 100 lbs. Fortunately, three months on Purina Equine Senior Horse Feed got him back to his original weight. Now, he’s still teaching of a proprietary prebiotic, ActivAge, to support his aging immune system. But don’t take our word for it. Let Boo do all the talking.

Animals speak louder than words. Your local Purina retailer can tell you more than this ad ever could. Or visit purinamills.com/equinesenior TM

© 2018 Purina Animal Nutrition LLC. All rights reserved. Equine Senior is a registered trademark of Purina Animal Nutrition.

OSPHOS® (clodronate injection) Bisphosphonate For use in horses only.

Brief Summary (For Full Prescribing Information, see package insert) CAUTION: Federal (USA) law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian.

DESCRIPTION: Clodronate disodium is a non-amino, chlorocontaining bisphosphonate. Chemically, clodronate disodium is (dichloromethylene) diphosphonic acid disodium salt and is manufactured from the tetrahydrate form.

INDICATION: For the control of clinical signs associated with navicular syndrome in horses.

CONTRAINDICATIONS: Horses with hypersensitivity to clodronate disodium should not receive OSPHOS. WARNINGS: Do not use in horses intended for human consumption.

controls the clinical signs associated with

NAVICULAR SYNDROME Easily Administered via intramuscular injection

Well Tolerated* in clinical trials

Proven Efficacy* at 6 months post treatment

No Reconstitution Required Learn more online

HUMAN WARNINGS: Not for human use. Keep this and all drugs out of the reach of children. Consult a physician in case of accidental human exposure.

PRECAUTIONS: As a class, bisphosphonates may be associated with gastrointestinal and renal toxicity. Sensitivity to drug associated adverse reactions varies with the individual patient.

Renal and gastrointestinal adverse reactions may be associated with plasma concentrations of the drug. Bisphosphonates are excreted by the kidney; therefore, conditions causing renal impairment may increase plasma bisphosphonate concentrations resulting in an increased risk for adverse reactions. Concurrent administration of other potentially nephrotoxic drugs should be approached with caution and renal function should be monitored. Use of bisphosphonates in patients with conditions or diseases affecting renal function is not recommended.

Administration of bisphosphonates has been associated with abdominal pain (colic), discomfort, and agitation in horses.

Clinical signs usually occur shortly after drug administration and may be associated with alterations in intestinal motility. In horses treated with OSPHOS these clinical signs usually began within 2 hours of treatment. Horses should be monitored for at least 2 hours following administration of OSPHOS. Bisphosphonates affect plasma concentrations of some minerals and electrolytes such as calcium, magnesium and potassium, immediately post-treatment, with effects lasting up to several hours. Caution should be used when administering bisphosphonates to horses with conditions affecting mineral or electrolyte homeostasis (e.g. hyperkalemic periodic paralysis, hypocalcemia, etc.).

The safe use of OSPHOS has not been evaluated in horses less than 4 years of age. The effect of bisphosphonates on the skeleton of growing horses has not been studied; however, bisphosphonates inhibit osteoclast activity which impacts bone turnover and may affect bone growth.

Bisphosphonates should not be used in pregnant or lactating mares, or mares intended for breeding. The safe use of OSPHOS has not been evaluated in breeding horses or pregnant or lactating mares. Bisphosphonates are incorporated into the bone matrix, from where they are gradually released over periods of months to years. The extent of bisphosphonate incorporation into adult bone, and hence, the amount available for release back into the systemic circulation, is directly related to the total dose and duration of bisphosphonate use. Bisphosphonates have been shown to cause fetal developmental abnormalities in laboratory animals. The uptake of bisphosphonates into fetal bone may be greater than into maternal bone creating a possible risk for skeletal or other abnormalities in the fetus. Many drugs, including bisphosphonates, may be excreted in milk and may be absorbed by nursing animals.

Increased bone fragility has been observed in animals treated with bisphosphonates at high doses or for long periods of time.

Bisphosphonates inhibit bone resorption and decrease bone turnover which may lead to an inability to repair micro damage within the bone. In humans, atypical femur fractures have been reported in patients on long term bisphosphonate therapy; however, a causal relationship has not been established.

ADVERSE REACTIONS: The most common adverse reactions reported in the field study were clinical signs of discomfort or nervousness, colic and/or pawing. Other signs reported were lip licking, yawning, head shaking, injection site swelling, and hives/pruritus.

www.dechra-us.com www.osphos.com As with all drugs, side effects may occur. In field studies, the most common side effects reported were signs of discomfort or nervousness, colic, and/or pawing. OSPHOS should not be used in pregnant or lactating mares, or mares intended for breeding.

Use of OSPHOS in patients with conditions affecting renal function or mineral or electrolyte homeostasis is not recommended.

Refer to the prescribing information for complete details or visit www.dechra-us.com or call 866.933.2472.

CAUTION: Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of licensed veterinarian. * Freedom of Information Summary, Original New Animal Drug Application, NADA 141-427, for OSPHOS. April 28, 2014.

Dechra Veterinary Products US and the Dechra D logo are registered trademarks of Dechra Pharmaceuticals PLC. © 2016 Dechra Ltd.

Distributed by: Dechra Veterinary Products 7015 College Boulevard, Suite 525 Overland Park, KS 66211 866-933-2472 © 2016 Dechra Ltd. OSPHOS is a registered trademark of Dechra Ltd. All rights reserved.

NADA 141-427, Approved by FDA

P HOTO BY DA N H U B B E LL

INSPIRED RIDER

by Bob Welch

Leadership, Purpose, and Partnership

NOT LONG AGO, I felt I’d hit a wall in my 5-year-old gelding’s (shown above) training progression. He’s always been a pretty solid soldier. I’ve asked him to work long days, rope big steers, put up with all-day horse shows, and endure trips to cow works two states away.

He’s always shown heart and a willing attitude. But lately, as I’ve tried to put a bit of refinement on his solid foundation, it hasn’t been working.

Admittedly, I’m not the best horse trainer in the land, and I’ve been seeking help on that front, but my young horse’s attitude seemed at the root of the problem. He’s never overtly

February 2018 / 11

INSPIRED RIDER

obstinate. We don’t get in big fights.

Increasingly, though, his attitude seemed uninspired. More and more when riding out and then away from the other horses, he’d become antsy and nicker for his buddies.

Bob Welch has spent his career writing and thinking about horses, riders, and the West. When not sitting at his computer working through writer’s block, he and his family enjoy being horseback, working cattle, and competing in ranch horse shows and ranch rodeos.

A Look in the Mirror I’ve learned that when a horse isn’t doing what I’d like it to, it’s almost always my doing. Sometimes I’m easy on my horses to a fault. I don’t ask for much because I don’t want to fight through the learning process. So my first reaction to my gelding’s lackadaisical attitude was to correct my known flaw and increase my intensity. Let’s rephrase that: I was angry that he didn’t respond to my easy hand with the willingness I expected, so I let that frustration boil over to some “jerk and spur” sessions.

A m e r i c a n

Not surprisingly, that method didn’t yield the desired results, either. In fact, while I perhaps got him turning more quickly with a cow, his indifferece toward me only grew. He’d nicker with less provocation and more frequency.

He even seemed more distant and less responsive to me.

I can’t remember if I read it, watched it on a video, or heard him say it, but Joe Wolter once spoke about his relationships with his horses. He noticed

A s s o c i a t i o n

o f

E q u i n e

that when he’d take his young horses to a clinic or show early on in their training, he could feel them drawing nearer to him when they felt uncertain. They looked to him for guidance, reassurance, safety, and—maybe at some level—friendship.

I didn’t have that relationship with my horse. I used him as a tool to get a job done, but I never made an effort to create a bond with him. I figured if I were fair with him, he’d be fair with

P r a c t i t i o n e r s

Even Healthy Horses Need Regular Exams Schedule a wellness exam for your horse at least once a year.

Regular examinations save lives because early detection is the key to treating serious health problems.

Consult your veterinarian to determine the correct examination interval for your horse based on its individual needs and activity level.

Don’t wait until they are sick!

Learn more at aaep.org/horse-owners

12 / HorseandRider.com

me. But I don’t think a horse reasons that way. For a horse to get with you, he needs to trust you. He needs to know you’re going to be consistent.

That, I think, was my biggest mistake. I was terribly inconsistent with him. At first, I didn’t ask much of him. Then, I asked without patience or instruction. He didn’t know where I was coming from or where I wanted him to go.

Making It Right With that in mind, I began to look for ways to build a partnership with him. I started simply. Before my realizations, I’d ride him all day, jerk the saddle off, and kick him loose, thinking he’d appreciate the freedom as soon as he could get it. Now, I take an extra 10 minutes after a long day to brush

For a horse to get with you, he needs to trust you. He must know you’ll be consistent. him down. Sometimes he gets a little stocked up when he stands in the corral all day, so I’ve taken to graining him separate from the other horses and cold-hosing his legs while he eats.

The silliest—but maybe most effective—new habit I’m trying to form is carrying a handful of treats in my coat pocket. When he does something I’m particularly proud of, I slip him one when no one’s watching. Or, if I’m cleaning stalls or catching another horse, I’ll sidle up to him and give him a treat unexpectedly.

The other side of this coin is being much more direct when I ask him to

do something. I don’t pick or plead; I ask clearly and firmly. And once he does what I ask, I try to reward him.

The results are coming. We went to an out-of-state, four-day ranch rodeo recently, and I noticed some of his less-desirable habits are fading.

He looked for me at feeding time. He nuzzled my pockets as I saddled him, and he never nickered.

Really, I shouldn’t be surprised.

People—as well as horses—need leadership, purpose, and partnership.

I’ve been blessed by those things in my life, and it’s my duty to provide them for my horses too.

Got a senior horse with special needs?

Ask your vet about

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February 2018 / 13

SADDLE CHAT

you should know

The Krones’ New Chrome H&R contributors Kent and Charlene Krone are saddling up new equine trail partners. Charlene’s horse, Jake, is a 5-year-old, double-registered Tennessee Walking Horse/Spotted Saddle Horse. Kent’s 9-year-old mount, Cody, is a four-time world champion registered with the Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders’ and Exhibitors Association, the Spotted Saddle Horse Breeders’ and Exhibitors’ Association, and the National Spotted Saddle Horse Association. “That [registration] doesn’t mean a thing on the trails, so Cody’s been earning his way as we go along,” Kent says with a smile.

“Both new horses are working out very well, are quite compatible, and are getting used to the varied type of riding we do,” adds Kent. “They both gait smoothly and can maintain it over distance.”

As for the Krones’ former trail mounts? “Cowboy and Nate are on permanent loan to two trail-riding sisters who live near us in Montana,” shares Kent.

(The Krones’ debut “Inspired Riding” column will appear in the March issue.)

TOUGH, NECESSARY PLANNING

‘Though estate planning can be tough to talk about, horse owners will find the brochure a helpful guide when it comes to planning for the future.’

—The Unwanted Horse Coalition, announcing a new free publication, available at http://bit.ly/horseestateplanning.

14 / HorseandRider.com

The expert: Bitmaker and lifetime student of the horse’s mouth, master silversmith Greg Darnall.

The lessons: “Education Vs. Domination: What Role Does the Bit Play” consists of six video segments, ranging from 3 to 26 minutes in length.

Each installment discusses the intricacies of bits and how they're meant to function in your horse’s mouth.

More info: Visit gregdarnall .com to buy the DVD or digital download or to stream the entire series; $69.99.

90 DAYS

Length of the waiver the U.S. Department of Transportation granted to postpone the requirement that agricultural and livestock haulers install electronic logging devices in their vehicles. The American Horse Council (american horsecouncil.org) has requested a one-year delay to investigate implications.

“THE KRONES’ NEW CHROME” PHOTO BY KENT AND CHARLENE KRONE; “FROM THE HORSE’S MOUTH” PHOTO COURTESY OF GREG DARNALL

From the Horse’s Mouth

socially speaking

#HORSELIFEIRL campbellfarms222 #misskitty in the Due West Christmas parade #horselifeirl Tag your Instagram photos #HorseLifeIRL (In Real Life) for a chance to see your post here!

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Have you ever used a grazing muzzle for your horse?

Susan T Burris When my colicky horse is turned out with other horses he

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wears one. I like to use twine to tie it to the halter so it can break away if it’s caught on something.

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Judy Wirth Mine can only go to a pasture with one on. It does not make her happy at all.

Chantelle Oulton-Greenough I tried to use one, but my horse ate the muzzle.

Don Mack No. My horses get plenty of exercise training for shows and riding trails.

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At your dealers, or you may write: HR February 2018 / 15

SADDLE CHAT

from you, the reader

WE HEAR YOU

Western Life Is the Best Life Editor’s note: In the December issue, we offered more than 50 reasons to love Western horse life and asked you to share what you cherish about your horse life. Here are three answers.

I love my Western horse life because when I go camping with friends to Coldwater Equestrian Center in Blackwater River State Forest, Munson, Florida, we saddle up and ride out for hours on beautiful longleaf pine forest trails. We cross the long, winding Coldwater Creek where the horses get a cool drink, and we do a photo shoot.

Upon returning to camp, we unsaddle, take care of our trusted horses, and head to the trailers for lunch and a short nap. Then we do it all over again!

Melanie Beiser

I start my day with a smile as I look out my kitchen window while enjoying my first sip of coffee and see my two horses contentedly munching on grass in the pasture. Priceless.

Ann Hopta

16 / HorseandRider.com

DISCOVERING JOSHUA TREE NATIONAL PARK Thank you for including an expanded travel/trip diary piece in the latest December issue of H&R, “Discover a Desert Diamond,”

by Kent and Charlene Krone. I hope you’ll

continue to publish full-coverage travel articles like this one for your more trail-oriented riders.

We’re always looking for places to go ride, and it’s great to have

people share their experiences with us so we can be both inspired and informed.

Louise Richardson

GALLOP POLL

96%

of poll respondents have acquired a horse that was 15 or older at the time. Turn to page 44 to learn why 30 is the new 20 for many equines.

To participate in future polls, “like” Horse&Rider on Facebook.

P H OTO BY KE N T A N D CH A RL E N E K RO N E

I’m a 68-year-old buckaroo, born on a ranch outside Bakersfield, California. At my age, I have many reasons to love my Western life. The country song “God Must Be a Cowboy” has a line that says, “He made grass and trees and mountains and a horse to be a friend.” This rings true in my life.

Randy Gafner

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We love hearing from you! Send all highresolution images for Conformation Clinic and any feedback, ideas, photos, and letters to HorseandRider@ aimmedia.com. Or mail correspondence to 5720 Flatiron Parkway, Boulder, CO 80301.

THE EQUINE NETWORK STORE Official store

Horse & Rider Magazine

www.EquineNetworkStore.com February 2018 / 17

SADDLE CHAT

HorseandRider.com

What Is Working Equitation?

Making the Switch Do you know when it’s time to begin a specialized feeding regimen for your senior horse? Our tips will help you determine how to best meet his needs.

Senior Checklist H&R’s contributing veterinarian, Barb Crabbe, DVM, offers a checklist of things you should do to keep your senior horse going strong as he gets older.

FEEL-GOOD WORK Do you provide adequate exercise for your senior horse, apart from any turnout he may have? Fitness is as critical to an aging equine as it is to an aging human. Read about different exercise strategies that are designed to keep your older horse happy and feeling good—and to extend his longevity.

SHOW-HORSE CARE

The Thinking Rider On tap for February: Bridleless riding—why and how to try it. Follow Horse&Rider on Facebook for alerts on new posts from this American Horse Publications award-winning blog.

18 / HorseandRider.com

Age is just a number. See how you can keep your senior performance horse feeling good and looking great with Bob Avila’s tips on page 36. Then go online to see what kind of care Avila recommends your show horse (of any age) have at home between competitions.

“FEEL-GOOD WORK” PHOTO BY CHARLES BROOKS; “SHOW-HORSE CARE” PHOTO BY MARC LAXINETA, DVM; “THE THINKING RIDER” PHOTO BY SHERI SCOTT

Learn about the hot new sport that’s relatively new to the U.S., starting on page 50. To see if it’s a good fit for you and your horse, watch the video “Working Equitation” on our website.

R CALL FO EE R F YOUR S AND SAMPLE CK INFO PA

Speedi-Beet速 is a highly nutritious, quick soaking beet pulp feed for all horses with no added molasses.

Speedi-Beet is 95% sugar free and soaks in 10 minutes. Speedi-Beet is a suitable fiber source for horses with laminitis, ideal for senior horses with poor teeth. With it's high water content aiding rehydration and slow release energy, Speedi-Beet is an ideal fiber source for the competition horse. Speedi-Beet is non-GMO, with no additives or preservatives.

Fibre-Beet速 is a conditioning feed with a carefully formulated combination of Speedi-Beet, alfalfa and oat fibre, supplemented with biotin, sodium and calcium. Fibre-Beet is low in sugar and starch, non-GMO, with no additives or preservatives. Added alfalfa for optimum condition provides quality protein for muscle tone and function, with optimum levels of biotin for hooves and coat. Fibre-Beet is ideal for seniors and horses with poor teeth, and can be used to supplement poor forage/grazing.

Visit our website for the dealer nearest you.

Benegest速 PRO is formulated with a complete profile of prebiotics and probiotics, helping support all three stages of the digestion process. Benegest PRO contains the probiotics needed to promote a healthy gut and the prebiotics to maintain it. Benegest PRO may aid in enzymatic break down of feed and maintains the vitality of the absorptive surfaces, it also helps optimize the utilization of fiber.

While you try to feed your horse the best diet, if the gut is out of balance, they may not be getting the most out of their feed. Benegest PRO also supports the immune system. Great for dogs too!

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TRAVEL / HEALTH SOLUTIONS / STYLE HORSEKEEPING

Take in the flash and beauty of one of the most prestigious Arabian horse shows in Scottsdale. It’s the perfect time to escape the cold for some Arizona sunshine.

T RAVE L

Ariz.

WHERE

Scottsdale, Arizona

W H AT

Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show WHEN

February 15–28

Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show A win at this major Arabian show can put a trainer and horse on a trajectory to stardom in the Arabian breed. For nearly two weeks, top showmen— and those who aspire to be— exhibit their flashy steeds in everything from halter to ranch riding to reining on purebred and Half-Arabians. It’s a show to see and be seen at.

21 PHOTO BY MALLORY BEINBORN

63

Ariz.

The nonstop action in WestWorld’s multiple arenas will keep your attention, but be sure to make time to explore the entirety of the show.

Clinicians and exhibitors offer educational demonstrations to hone your horsemanship, free with your paid admission to the show. And the trade show has everything your Western heart could desire. You’ll find rows of booths offering tack, art, jewelry, and apparel indoors at the North Hall, plus more exhibitors outside in the Scottsdale sunshine near the competition.

The event also features art and photography competitions and other events and activities.

Number of years the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show has been a fixture on the Arabian circuit.

5 6

4

3

2

1

Don’t Miss This explore.

Take in the rich heritage of your Western horse life by visiting the 1. Scottsdale Museum of the West, one of the area’s most highly rated attractions. If you’re looking for turquoise jewelry and

Native American décor, 2.

Old Town Scottsdale is a can’t-miss destination.

eat.

Don’t worry about fairgrounds fare at this show; you’ll find international choices on the

3. WestWorld premises from various vendors.

Looking for a fancy night out? Try horse-trainer favorite 4. Maestro’s.

Take a road trip out of Scottsdale to 5. Cave Creek for a Western dining experience.

do.

Load up your horse for a stay at 6. Rio Rancho Verde, which offers stalls for your horse and casitas for you. Ride out from the facility’s back gate directly onto the Sonoran Desert’s trails.

From Hotel to WestWorld The first Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show was held at the Arizona Biltmore Hotel, setting the event up to be a first-class experience from the start. Later it moved to Paradise Park, set on 150 acres in Scottsdale. The show now calls WestWorld home, where it hosts nearly 2,400 horses competing for bragging rights in events from all disciplines.

22 / HorseandRider.com

PHOTOS BY MALLORY BEINBORN

TRAVEL

The Facts

There is

NO GENERIC ADEQUAN

®

The ONLY FDA approved equine PSGAG for the intramuscular treatment of non-infectious degenerative joint disease (DJD) of the carpal and hock joints proven to: • DIMINISH the destructive processes of degenerative joint disease • REVERSE the processes which result in the loss of cartilage components • IMPROVE overall joint function and associated lameness Available for order! For more information about equine joint health and treatment with Adequan® i.m., please visit www.adequan.com.

INDICATIONS For the intramuscular treatment of non-infectious degenerative and/or traumatic joint dysfunction and associated lameness of the carpal and hock joints in horses.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

There are no known contraindications to the use of intramuscular Adequan® i.m. brand Polysulfated Glycosaminoglycan in horses. Studies have not been conducted to establish safety in breeding horses. WARNING: Do not use in horses intended for human consumption. Not for use in humans. Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children. CAUTION: Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian.

Please see Full Prescribing Information at www.adequan.com.

Adequan® and the Horse Head design are registered trademarks of Luitpold Pharmaceuticals, Inc. © Luitpold Animal Health, division of Luitpold Pharmaceuticals, Inc. 2016. AHD227 Iss. 4/2016

Senior Horses

Your senior horse needs extra TLC in cold weather. Give him plenty of forage—such as hay—because it creates inner warmth as it’s metabolized. A good senior feed may be helpful, too, as a little extra weight can also help your oldster stay warm. Make sure he has adequate shelter, and if he’s wearing a blanket, check it often for rubs. Seniors often have weaker immune systems, so make sure yours is properly vaccinated, especially against flu. Exercise—such as gentle riding or hand walking— can boost health and help prevent or alleviate stiffness.

Critical Temperatures

ºF 40 30

­ seniors, potenti ll

­ mature horses, good flesh

A little extra watchfulness will help keep your old guy healthy and happy throughout the winter.

15

­ mature horses, after weight gain, coat growth

Key Checks

“Critical temperature” is the temp below which your horse must produce additional heat to maintain his normal body temperature. Seniors have a higher cut-off than mature horses do, so it’s even more important for them to have plenty of heat-generating feed

grooming

weight loss

water source

when temperatures drop.

Watch especially for topline

A weight tape is an easy way

Water should be fresh, plenti-

changes, skin problems, small

to check for incremental

ful, and of a temperature your

wounds, foot issues.

weight loss over the winter.

horse finds drinkable.

Source: Purina Animal Nutrition

24 / HorseandRider.com

LARGE PHOTO BY LOSHADENOK/ISTOCKPHOTO.COM; “KEY CHECKS” PHOTOS BY (FROM LEFT) ALANA HARRISON, VALLEYVET.COM, JRLPHOTOGRAPHER/ISTOCKPHOTO.COM; THERMOMETER PHOTO BY VLADISCHERN/ISTOCKPHOTO.COM

HEA LTH

Tips for older horses in winter

Therapeutic Tools Use these products to help with recovery and treat injuries.

S OLUTION S

Therapeutic Accessories

1.

Hock Wraps

Generate blood flow to relieve pain in existing issues and help prevent injury to healthy hocks. $59.99; equibrand.com.

2.

Mesh Sheet

3.

Quick Wraps

Equine Compression Suits A bodysuit for your horse? While it’s a sight you don’t see every day, a compression suit, like this one from Hidez Animal Compression Suits ($599; hidezusa.com), helps increase circulation and blood flow throughout your horse’s body, delivering more oxygen to his muscles. Ride your horse in the active suit to help decrease warm-up time and fatigue, or use the recovery and travel suit to detox muscles and reduce soreness after a long ride.

26 / HorseandRider.com

Ceramic and magnetic materials are fused into every fiber to prevent leg swelling. $89.99; hansbosport.com.

LARGE PHOTO BY SHELBY MCCAMEY, COURTESY OF HIDEZ

TIP This compression suit can also promote a calming effect and decrease stress in a nervous horse.

Welltex material reflects the horse’s body energy, creating an infrared thermal effect.

Starting at $199; backontrackproducts.com.

‘Purr-tect’ & Serve!

Shown larger than approximate size of 4" high

Officer Kitty Upholds “Paw & Order”!

When it comes to helping enforce local law and order, why should the dogs have all the fun?

Meet one cool cat who’s safely patroling the beat in “Paw & Order,” an all-new figurine by artist Blake Jensen, only from Hamilton! Looking official in his handsome uniform and shiny badge, Officer Kitty is a rare breed indeed. Not only is he quick on his feet and a terrific hunter, he’s also great at climbing and rescuing people who are stuck in trees!

Satisfaction Guaranteed or Your Money Back!

Limited to 95 casting days, “Paw & Order” is handcrafted and painted by hand. Each edition is numbered and includes a Certificate of Authenticity. Our 365-Day Guarantee assures your satisfaction or your money back. Quantities are limited, so act now to reserve your FREE 30-Day Preview! ©2017 HC. All Rights Reserved.

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Outerwear Options STY LE

Winter Wear

Look good and stay warm with these pieces.

1.

Bomber Jacket

A lightly filled, bomber-style coat that's perfect for barn days or nights out. $99.99; kimesranch.com.

2.

Tweed Vest

TIP Don’t let metal zippers rub your hands raw. Look for a jacket that offers a plastic or coated pocket zipper, instead.

An Aztec-print, quilted, polyfil vest that pairs well over a long-sleeved shirt. $74.99; cinchjeans.com.

Buffalo-Check Jacket Don’t let winter weather put a damper on personal style. With our sights set on spring, it’s

easy to forget that we’re still in for plenty of cold days this month. During those chilly days that might see a little sunshine, look for a lightweight jacket you can layer with other warm clothing, such as this down-filled coat from Roper Apparel ($120; eroper.com). It features the red-and-black buffalo-plaid trend, keeping you in style while staying warm.

28 / HorseandRider.com

Water-resistant exterior and high-loft fill will keep you warm on the coldest days. $159.99; kerrits.com.

LARGE PHOTO BY ALEXANDER MOON

3.

Insulated Coat

HORSEKEEP I N G

Blind Horses

The best living arrangement for your blind horse is to have just one pasture buddy, who’ll be his companion and guide.

Blind Horse TLC A horse with little or no vision can live a fully satisfying life if you make just a few tweaks to your horsekeeping routine.

Do you own a horse that’s losing his sight? Or one that’s already blind or nearly so? Here’s how to keep that horse safe as you maximize his quality of life.

Safe Living Space First, provide a living area that’s as hazard-free as possible and large enough to minimize crowding and bumping.

Woven-wire or mesh-wire fencing is suitable, as are fencing materials designed to be safely flexible on impact.

Avoid electric fences.

Clear the pen or pasture of downed trees, sharp tree branches, or other features that can trip or injure. Fill potentially hoof-catching holes with dirt or gravel. Create a gravel apron around the foot of trees or poles; your horse will learn that the feel of the gravel under his feet is a warning of something to navigate around.

Place a wind chime or other gentle noise-maker at the spot where your horse can find water, salt, and feed.

Extra Help Introduce your blind horse to his living quarters by hand-walking him around the perimeter, tapping the fence and other important features of the landscape as you go to provide an audible

cue. This enables your horse to make a mental map of his living area.

Ideally, he’ll share this space with one other horse (or donkey or goat). He’ll bond closely to this animal, who’ll serve as his companion and guide. Place a bell on the guide animal (you can plait it into a guide horse’s mane) to help your blind horse keep track of his friend.

Avoid placing a blind horse in a group of horses, where he’d almost inevitably be subject to hazing and possible injury.

Success Tips Use your voice constantly when you’re working around your blind horse. Make sure he knows how to respond immediately to whoa. Repeat other key words in context so he can come to know and use them as “heads-up” warnings—for example, “Here comes the fly spray.”

Strive for maximum consistency in your blind horse’s routine, and avoid changing his environment to the extent possible. Don’t trim the long hairs around his muzzle or eyes; these feelers will help him avoid bumping into things.

Finally, give your blind horse plenty of time to adjust before making any decisions about whether the arrangement will work. Chances are, he’ll adapt better than you dreamed possible.

‘Blind horses can have a wonderful quality of life. Our own horses are proof of that.’

—New Hampshire nonprofit Rolling Dog Farm, whose proprietors care for multiple sightless equines; the also say they know of blind horses that compete under saddle, teach children to ride, and even perform on a drill team.

Learn more from their comprehensive Web site at blindhorses.org.

LARGE PHOTO BY LIFEJOURNEYS/ISTOCKPHOTO.COM

Protect Your Horse's Sight If your horse is fully sighted, take good care to keep him that way.

• Remove all potentially eye-wounding hazards from his living environment.

• Treat any eye wound as an emergency, and call your veterinarian immediately.

• Ask your vet about vaccinating against leptospirosis, a major trigger of uveitis (moon blindness), the most common cause of blindness in horses worldwide.

31

PRIVATE LESSON / WINNING INSIGHTS / TRAIL INSIGHTS / CONFORMATION CLINIC

PRIVATE LESSON

Rein Management for Mounted Shooting

ONE-HANDED RIDING IS A necessity for mounted shooting, which means highly tuned rein-management skills are required

so you can cue correctly and get the proper response. Targets come fast, even at the beginner level, and gun handling requires quick thinking. This makes mastering rein management at home a key to competitive success. I’ll cover my best tips here.

February 2018 / 33

Ride&Train

PRIVATE LESSON

BY KENDA LENSEIGNE, WITH JENNIFER PAULSON

Rein Management

­ When you have one hand on the reins and one hand on a gun, two-handed, direct reining simply isn’t an option. (That is, pulling with your left hand to go left and your right to go right.) Neck reining and effective rein management are critical, and a combination of circle, pattern, and lead-change work is an excellent way to practice these skills at home.

Tack up your horse in a bridle he responds to, and grab your roping (loop)

Kenda Lenseigne, Phoenix, Arizona, worked with top cutting horse trainers in Texas and California. But when she tried mounted shooting, she was hooked.

She’s the first woman in the history of her sport to win the Overall World Champion title, and continues to lead the pack of competitive shooters. Learn more at kendalenseigne.com.

34 / HorseandRider.com

reins. Begin working at a slower gait to start (walk or jog) on circles and build speed as your reflexes sharpen and your horse responds to your cues. For the pattern work, set up four shooting targets (or barrels or cones) in a square with 15 to 20 feet between each target, depending on the size of the pen.

1

One Here’s what I see happen all-too often when I work with riders and at competitions—incorrect neck reining. I’m holding the rein in a fist (like an ice cream cone), instead of the correct way (palm down). I’ve asked my horse to turn left by pulling my hand out to the left, which lays the rein across the right side of her neck. I didn’t adjust my rein length or position, so there’s a firm pull on the right side of the bit. My mare responds by lifting her head and tipping her nose to the right instead of turning left and following her nose. Not only is it visually unappealing, it creates a potentially dangerous imbalance in

4 a turn and also drives her left shoulder down, which means she’s not carrying herself properly. In all, this response can cost valuable seconds in a run and teaches my horse a bad habit. But it can be avoided with correct cueing and focused practice.

Two This is the cue and response I’m looking for and you should strive

toward. With my palm down, I’ve walked my fingers down the left side of the rein, shortening it to tip her nose in the direction I want to go.

I’ve also lifted my hand and pushed it forward so I’m not pulling against her face—she has room to adjust her neck position and turn her nose to the left. My rein isn’t too short nor overly long and hard to manage. It’s short enough that I can handle it easily, but long enough

PHOTOS BY JENNIFER PAULSON

One of the first steps to mounted shooting is

Give mounted shooting a try!

to expose your horse to gunfire. Find Kenda Lenseigne’s tips online.

2

improve your horse’s response, move from your circles to a pattern set up in your arena to mimic a shooting course.

In the pattern here, I lope three-quarters of a circle around a target, and then I move to the next partial circle. This gives me ample opportunity to practice my turn cues and move my hands up and down my rein. Here you can see that I’m completing a left turn around the marker. Even though I’m shooting at a target to my right, I can rein my horse to the left, keeping her nose on her path and her shoulders elevated.

3

Six

5 that my mare has a release instead of constant pressure on the sensitive points of her mouth from a rein that’s adjusted too short for her comfort.

Three I walk, jog, and lope circles, changing directions regularly with simple lead changes while adjusting the position of my hand on the rein to give the correct cue. Notice that

6 my palm is always facing down. That keeps my hand in a balanced position when I’m not asking for a turn and keeps slack in the rein so I’m not always pulling on my mare’s face.

Drilling this repeatedly with turns to the left and right is the only way I can “train” my fingers to be nimble enough to walk back and forth along my rein until it becomes second nature and something I don’t have to think about when riding.

Four You can even practice this off your horse while sitting on the couch or watching TV. Hold your loop rein, palm down, and walk your fingers back and forth along as you would to cue your horse to turn. .

Five To further refine your rein management and

For comparison, I’m also making a left turn here at the lope. Notice my incorrect hand position (back to a fist), the shortness of my rein, and my horse’s reaction to my cue. She can’t look where she’s going, and she’s dropped her inside shoulder because I’m pulling on the opposite side of the bit instead of guiding her nose to the inside of the turn. If we were to add speed in this position, she wouldn’t be able to move efficiently in her pattern work, which adds precious seconds on the clock. Or worse, she could easily lose her balance.

February 2018 / 35

Ride&Train

WINNING INSIGHTS

BY BOB AVILA, WITH JENNIFER PAULSON

Let Your Senior Shine Mindful management can extend your senior performance horse’s career and enjoyment of his life.

­ Take a look at the gelding in these photos. How old would you guess he is? The title of the article gives away that he’s an older performance horse, but he looks like he’s about 7 years old, in the prime of his performance career.

So how old is he? Juarez Whiz turns 16 this year. He’s amassed more than 270 points in AQHA competition, has more than $70,000 in NRHA lifetime earnings, and continues to be a competitive entry in both amateur/ non-pro and open classes.

To what do I attribute his longevity, ongoing success, and youthful appearance?

Read on to find out.

Focus on Feed Think of your horse like a vehicle: Feed is his fuel. If you have a fancy sports car and fill the tank with regular gasoline, you can’t expect premium performance. All of my horses—including JW, shown here—get high-quality forage and grain and supplements as needed. The

36 / HorseandRider.com

A comprehensive senior performance management program keeps him looking and feeling young.

key phrases are high-quality—we never sacrifice quality for price or any other reason—and as needed, because we tailor our feeding program to each horse’s requirements.

Another vital part of our feeding program: we feed our horses by the clock.

I’ve mentioned this before in other articles, and it’s essential for seniors’ digestive health. At home, our horses are fed at the same time every day. When we’re on the road, we adjust accordingly by time zone.

ago, he had a bone spur in his right hock. The vet said if we injected his hocks twice annually, he’d be comfortable and happy.

We stuck to that schedule, and now he’s down to having injections just once a year. Senior horses usually

come with some sort of an issue—or more than one.

Committing to the veterinary work required to keep the horse comfortable and happy extends his career and can even minimize his issues to where they require less maintenance.

WEATHER MATTERS You can control most of the factors listed here for successful senior-horse management. While you can’t necessarily control your climate (short of relocating), it does play a role in your senior horse’s longevity.

When I moved to Southern California from Oregon, I had several world champion horses that were starting to show their age.

They were getting sore and arthritic. The warm, dry California

Commit to Maintenance

weather changed their condition drastically.

Cold, harsh winters are hard on seniors. Take special care to keep your senior horses comfortable if you face frigid, wet

When JW came to our barn eight or nine years

winters. Find tips on page 24.

PHOTOS BY MARC LAXINETA, DVM

Find more of my tips for at-home care of the senior performance horse—or any show horse—online at HorseandRider.com.

Learn more online...

LEFT: A senior performance horse that slows down ages faster than one that keeps moving. Under-saddle work, as well as turnout, provide necessary activity. RIGHT: Schooling of a senior performance horse should be minimal—he knows his job. Focus on polishing what needs work and keeping him in shape.

The same goes for shoeing. Get the shoeing his feet require, and have the farrier out on the recommended schedule for that horse.

Exercise Every Day JW gets out of his stall at least six days a week.

Even if the weather is bad, he gets turned out to stretch his legs. We’re lucky in Southern California because weather doesn’t affect us much. If you live in a more severe climate, you’ll have to work at it to get your senior mount daily exercise, but it’ll be worth it. If you want longevity, your horse has to get out of his stall and get moving. If you want a horse to get old before his time, let him stand in a stall every day.

Some horses go play and run as soon as you turn them out. Others take more encouragement. Be sure that your horse is getting the exercise he needs during turnout rather than just standing around in the pasture. If he’s less apt to exercise himself, you might need to put him on a walker or longe him in addition to turnout.

Mindful Training and Showing A proven senior horse shouldn’t feel like he must have the run of his life every time he walks into the show pen. Yes, JW is shown to win when it matters. But we also let him relax and breathe in the arena on a regular basis. He’s mostly a reiner, so we’ll enter him

in ranch riding to get him in the arena to focus on something other than running circles and sliding to stops. When we ask him for more in the reining pen, he doesn’t resent it because he’s had opportunities to take it easy.

For schooling at home, we don’t drill him and pick at him. He knows his job, and his maneuvers are solid. Instead, we think about what needs polish and work on those things.

Otherwise, his riding at home focuses on keeping him physically fit.

of H&R many times, won countless awards, and was a terrific performer until his retirement at age 18.

His departure from competition wasn’t abrupt; we eased him out of it. Even today, we continue to maintain him as a performance horse. He’s fed well. The vet goes over him at least twice yearly to identify any potential issues. He sees the farrier regularly. And we still pamper him like a show horse, because that’s what he’s accustomed to. Our performance horses have earned the right to a retirement that keeps them comfortable, healthy, and happy.

Bob Avila, Temecula, California, is an AQHA world champion, three-time NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity

When It’s Time to Retire

winner, NRHA Futurity champ, and two-time World’s Greatest Horse-

You’ll know when it’s time to back off your performance horse’s career.

Brother White (“Preacher”) graced the pages

man. He's been named the AQHA Professional Horseman of the Year. Learn more at bobavila.net.

February 2018 / 37

Ride&Train

TRAIL INSIGHTS

BY KEN McNABB, WITH ALEXIS BENNETT

Hoof Makes the Horse Use my hoofmaintenance and trail-prep tips for a safe, fun ride.

­ It’s been said that your horse is no better than his feet. They’re the primary contact with the ground as he carries you and your equipment over variable terrain along the trail, out on the ranch, or as you take laps around the arena. If you horse’s feet aren’t well cared for, he can’t do his job, and you can’t enjoy him.

Healthy feet come with daily care. Each time you’re with your horse, pick up his feet, clean them, and check that they’re in good condition. Remove rocks, and watch for hoof-wall cracks.

Daily maintenance helps ensure that your trail horse’s hooves are ready to withstand the stressors of the trail, be they sharp rocks, pebbles, slate, water, sand, or hard ground. If his hooves can’t handle the conditions, you’ll be calling it a day too early in your ride because of soreness or injury. Best-case scenario, your horse will just be uncomfortable.

Here I’ll share my hoof-care basics, as well as trail-specific considerations designed to help you and your horse have a safe, comfortable ride.

38 / HorseandRider.com

Protect His Hooves A simple rule: If hoof wear exceeds hoof growth, then you must substitute that growth. Horseshoes and hoof boots fulfill this role.

Have your horse trimmed every six to eight weeks by a reputable professional farrier.

Shoe consistently during peak riding season. Your horse’s hoof shape should complement his anatomy and consider his hoof’s growth pattern. A good farrier will shape the shoe to your horse’s hoof, not the other way around.

If you choose for your horse to go barefoot, use hoof boots when you ride on terrain that wears on feet. If your horse goes barefoot only during the off season, hoof boots protect his hooves while giving them a rest from shoes and allowing regrowth.

Correctly fit and adjust hoof boots so your horse can achieve full pastern flexion. His foot contains veins and arteries that pump blood to and from his leg. If you restrict pastern flexion, you restrict

Daily maintenance helps ensure that your trail horse’s hooves are ready to withstand the stressors of the trail, be they sharp rocks, pebbles, slate, water, sand, or hard ground.

blood flow elsewhere.

Do tightly secure the boots. Your horse can’t feel the outside of his hoof wall, so don’t be shy about cinching down the bootstraps. But avoid tightening too much near the coronary band, as this shuts off blood supply to the rest of his leg.

Test the boots before you get to the trailhead to ensure that they fit well.

Boots are easily sucked

off by mud, and a loose boot is even likelier to come off.

Teach Him Manners To make hoof care stress-free, teach your horse manners. If he’s difficult to work with, he won’t get the best possible care from your farrier.

It’s also a safety hazard for you if he’s unruly

PHOTOS BY MALLORY BEINBORN

Learn more online...

What do your horse’s feet say about his health?

Learn the ins and outs of hoof health. Find “Reading Feet” online.

LEFT: Each time you’re with your horse, clean his feet, and check that they’re in good condition. Shoe consistently during peak riding season, or opt for hoof boots. RIGHT: Your horse’s hoof shape should complement his anatomy and consider his hoof’s growth pattern. A good farrier will shape the shoe to your horse’s hoof, not the other way around.

while being handled on and off the trail.

To help your horse become comfortable with the trimming and shoeing procedure, prepare him for the handling, sounds, and sensations he’ll experience with your farrier. When you pick your horse’s feet, have him stand a little longer than necessary to teach patience. Use a carpenter’s hammer to mock the feel and sound of trimming and shoeing. With the hammer’s claw, scrape the sole and outside of the hoof to mimic the rasp. Light, hammer-like motions emulate driving nails. (Avoid being too aggressive.)

If you’ve worked with

your horse and still have trouble, hire your farrier to help you work through the process of a successful shoeing. Your diligence on the frontend saves your farrier headaches and keeps you out of dangerous situations.

One Step at a Time Your trail horse is at risk for a foot injury even on rock-free trails, so be prepared. You’d hate to have to end the ride because your horse fractures his hoof wall, is bleeding, or has a stone bruise, and you’re ill-prepared to handle it.

Carry supplies for hoof-related mishaps.

We always pack a small rasp, such as Weaver’s RidersRasp, plus extra boots and shoes. It’s not practical to bring an entire set for each horse, but you shouldn’t be without a few spares. If you’re not comfortable tacking on a loose or lost shoe, simply use a hoof boot to tide your horse over until you can make it back to the trailer.

If you find yourself without hoof protection, stay on the softest ground possible, and avoid rocks as you head back, even if it means you dismount and walk. A few chips aren’t a big deal, but if you badly break up the hoof wall or give your horse a stone bruise, he can be out for months.

Trainer, clinician, and lifelong cowboy Ken McNabb hails from Lovell, Wyoming. He helps riders and horses build and enjoy partnerships working on the ranch and riding on the trail. His show, Discovering the Horseman Within, airs weekly on RFD-TV. Learn more about McNabb and find his clinic schedule at kenmcnabb.com.

February 2018 / 39

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Ride&Train

CONFORMATION CLINIC

Quarter Horse Geldings Evaluate and place these aged Quarter Horse geldings. Then see how your choices compare to our expert judge’s. ­ UNDERSTANDING a horse’s balance and structure—and how they relate to the horse’s performance—is critical. Today, we have horses that specialize in halter classes, but the conformation ideal is supposed to maintain the breed standards, and that always goes back to balance and structure and how those factors affect soundness, longevity, and performance. As I assess a class, I look for horses that’ll be useful and stay sound beyond a halter career.

The purpose of halter is to maintain the breed standard. If we’re truly interested in maintaining the breed standard, we have to be concerned about the longevity of these horses. If I’m looking at mares or stallions, I ask myself “Would I breed to this horse?” With geldings, I ask myself, “Could this horse go on to become a riding horse?” After a halter career, there needs to be a place for these horses.

With this class of geldings, as the rulebook stipulates, I look first for overall balance, then structural correctness, breed and sex characteristics, and muscling. →

A

B

MARGO BALL Margo Ball holds judge’s cards with the Paint, Quarter Horse, and Palomino associations and NSBA, as well as with the National Reining, National Reined Cow Horse, and World Conformation Horse Associations. She’s judged 18 world shows.

From Fort Collins, Colorado, Ball has trained and shown horses to multiple AQHA championships and superior event titles in halter and performance, as well as to PHBA and IBHA world championships. She also coaches a select group of amateur competitors.

C February 2018 / 41

Ride&Train

CONFORMATION CLINIC

1st

2nd

3rd

Gelding B

Gelding C

Gelding A

­ This roan gelding has the best overall balance of the three geldings, and he’s structurally correct. His head is the most refined of the three, with kind eyes and well-set ears. His neck, though it could be trimmer through the throatlatch and cleaner over the topline, ties in high to his chest and is nicely shaped, being longer on top than on bottom.

His back could be a bit shorter, but his topline is smooth, level, and strong.

He shows strength through the loin, enabling him to transmit power from his hind end. His withers could be more defined, but he has good slope to his shoulder and a matching good slope to his croup. His volume and definition of muscling matches in his front end and hind end.

He’s structurally very correct, with his knees and hocks level. He has an excellent hock angle, with a plumb line straight down his hind cannon bones to the ground. His front legs have excellent forearm muscling, his knees are straight, and his pasterns have good length and slope.

­ This buckskin has excellent overall balance and lots of eye appeal.

Though he’s a little coarse through the bridge of his nose, he has well-set ears, large eyes, and great expression. He has the cleanest throatlatch of the three, and good length to his shapely neck, which ties in high to his chest.

His smooth topline is level from withers to croup. He has nicely defined withers, which will hold a saddle in place well. He’s also strong over his loin, which gives him power to drive from his hindquarters. His shoulder and hip angles match well, showing good slope and muscling.

This attractive horse looks to be a very capable athlete, but places behind Gelding B because he’s slightly over at the knees and a bit straighter in his hocks. Though not structurally ideal, his knees would be considered a minor fault, and probably won’t negatively affect his soundness or performance. Many horses that are slightly over at the knees go on to be productive performance horses.

­ This quality gelding has large eyes, well-set ears, and nice expression. He’s noticeably heavier in his front end than his hind end, lacking the other geldings’ overall balance.

He has an adequate throatlatch, but his neck ties into his chest low.

He lacks prominent withers and the strong loins of the other two geldings, and he’s slightly higher in his hips than his withers.

He has the steepest shoulder angle of these three, and though he has good front-end muscling definition, it’s not matched in his hind end. He lacks depth and definition through his stifle and gaskin.

This gelding’s legs are structurally correct. His hocks may be slightly higher than his knees, but he has an ideal hock angle, and his hind cannon bones make a plumb line to the ground. His front legs have flat knees and good pastern slope, but he places third because he lacks the other geldings’ overall balance, strong toplines, and well-sloped shoulders.

To submit a photo of your horse to be evaluated in Conformation Clinic, send us a left-side profile photo of your horse (for digital photos: high-resolution, 300 dpi, in at least 3" x 5") to HorseandRider@aimmedia.com with your contact info and your horse’s breed, age, gender, and height. (We welcome all breeds!) Visit HorseandRider.com for additional instructions.

42 / HorseandRider.com

THE 6-WEEK RIDER FITNESS PROGRAM WITH KELLY ALTSCHWAGER

INTRODUCING SADDLE STRONG! This is designed with the equestrian in mind! Work with accredited personal trainer and rider Kelly Altschwager to

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30 20 IS THE NEW

ADVANCES IN EQUINE HEALTH CARE HAVE EXTENDED YOUR HORSE’S POTENTIAL LIFESPAN. WHAT SHOULD YOU EXPECT AS HE GROWS OLDER?

By Barb Crabbe, DVM

“TRIGGER’S 32 THIS YEAR!

Doesn’t he look great?” my client proclaims. “He does seem to be slowing down just a little bit though— especially on long trail rides. Sometimes he even seems a little sore. What can I do to keep him going?”

“Wow,” I think. “Age 32 and slowing down? I remember when we thought 20 was old. Now my clients want to know how to keep a 30-year-old horse moving down the trail.”

With advances in equine medical care, your horse has a much better chance of leading a happy and productive life well into his third (or even fourth) decade than his predecessors did 20 years ago. That’s right: 30 really is the new 20. →

44 / HorseandRider.com

You don’t look a day over 20!

The five longevity boosters here can help your senior horse live a happy, healhty, productive life well into his 30s.

PHOTO BY MALLORY BEINBORN

February 2018 / 45

In this article, I’ll tell you about five major factors that have revolutionized your horse’s potential to live a healthy and productive life as a super-senior.

Along the way, I’ll identify signs he might need help. Finally, I’ll give you the tools to determine when enough is enough when it comes to your efforts to keep him going.

FIVE LONGEVITY BOOSTERS Why are horses living longer, healthier lives than ever before? The following five factors have each clearly played a role.

Nutrition Then: Decades ago, your horse’s daily ration consisted of hay and grain, with a multivitamin thrown in for good measure. Hay was chosen based on availability and outward appearance. If it was green and clean, it was probably good enough. Grain typically consisted of oats, corn, and barley— either plain or mixed with molasses in a sweet feed or a livestock blend.

As horses aged and chewing became difficult, the best available options might’ve included beet pulp, a bran mash, or soaked alfalfa pellets.

Now: “Grain” has been replaced by “concentrates,” or combination feeds carefully designed by equine nutritionists to meet your horse’s specific needs, especially for seniors.

Is he approaching 20? Choose one of many easily chewable, high-protein senior feeds balanced with vitamins and minerals to meet his increasing demands. Has he been diagnosed with equine metabolic syndrome or “insulin resistance”? You can find a low-carbohydrate concentrate that might help him. Add to that the wide variety of supplements available to help with any health condition—from arthritis to airway disease—and it’s no wonder your horse’s condition is better than ever.

Of course, good-quality hay and pasture remain the most important parts of any horse’s diet, and you can run a hay analysis to determine which forage provides the best nutrition for your horse. Science has even helped hay growers produce different types of hay 46 / HorseandRider.com

to meet different nutritional demands.

What to watch for: How can you tell if you horse needs a diet adjustment as he grows older? First and foremost, keep an eye on his condition. If he’s losing weight, he may need a highercalorie concentrate. If you notice a lack of muscling along his topline, it might be time to increase the protein in his diet. Does he have trouble chewing?

Look for an easy-to-chew senior diet designed to meet all of his needs, even if he can’t eat hay. Finally, if your vet diagnoses a medical condition such as pituitary pars intermediary dysfunction (PPID, also called Cushing’s disease) or kidney failure, a specially designed diet can help improve your horse’s health.

Dentistry Then: Thirty years ago, your horse had his teeth floated with a handheld file, usually for the first time when his age was well into the double digits. Your vet or dentist filed down the sharp edges that formed along the outside of his upper molars and inside of his lower molars every year or two. Rotten teeth could be extracted, but this was often a complicated procedure that required general anesthesia. Not many other dental treatments were available.

Now: Perhaps nothing in equine veterinary care has changed more than dentistry. These days, your horse’s dental care begins when he’s just a baby. Most dental practitioners recommend a first dental exam at 1 or 2 years of age to check for baby teeth your horse might not be losing normally. By identifying and treating these problems early, your vet can prevent problems from developing as your horse matures.

A dental exam and balancing is typically recommended every year.

Your practitioner inserts a speculum to hold your horse’s mouth open and ensure that every tooth can be examined and treated. Power tools expedite adjustments and can correct major problems arising from missing teeth or other misalignments. As your horse grows older, your vet can recognize and treat periodontal disease or even perform a root canal to save a damaged tooth. And better tools mean most rot-

ten or damaged teeth can be removed with your horse standing up, eliminating the need for general anesthesia.

What to watch for: A yearly dental exam allows your vet to recognize and treat any dental abnormalities before they cause a serious problem. If you notice your horse has a difficult time chewing, he’s “quidding” (spitting out balls of feed), or you detect a foul odor coming from his mouth between exams, it’s time to make a call. Thanks to senior diets, even older horses with no teeth can thrive for many years.

There’s no doubt about it: Improved dental care has a major impact on your horse’s longevity.

Parasite Control Then: Decades ago, your veterinarian visited your farm once or twice each year to administer a toxic substance

PHOTO BY SHELLEY PAULSON

directly into your horse’s stomach through a nasogastric tube. Very few deworming medications were available, and although they were effective against the parasites, they were also hard on your horse.

Over time, medications were developed that could be administered orally, first as a pellet added to your horse’s feed, and later in a paste formulation that helped ensure your horse got a full dose with every treatment. Deworming programs involved giving these medications every other month, targeting primarily the large strongyle, a parasite that causes severe damage with devastating health consequences.

Now: The good news is that the large strongyle has largely been eliminated as a health threat, leaving other, less-damaging parasites such as the small strongyle as the focus of

deworming programs. The bad news is that these remaining parasites have developed resistance to deworming medications.

Modern deworming programs are strategically designed to control parasite populations while protecting the effectiveness of available dewormers.

Well-designed programs involve regular monitoring of your horse’s parasite load through fecal egg counts, and only call for deworming twice per year unless your horse has poor natural immunity and harbors a high parasite load. Control programs have also begun to recognize and target equine tapeworms that can cause serious colic episodes.

Finally, better husbandry—such as pasture cleaning, pasture rotation, and age-group segregation—helps minimize parasitic impact and encourages

Advances in equine dentistry could be the most influential longevity booster for senior horses. A yearly dental exam allows your vet to recognize potential problems and remove rotten teeth—without general anesthesia.

a healthier environment for your horse overall.

What to watch for: If you follow recommendations for strategic parasite control, you can avoid the consequences of parasite problems altogether. High fecal egg counts will immediately identify problems with resistance to dewormers and shortcomings in your horsekeeping practices. Even if you’re doing everything right, parasites can be a problem. If your horse loses weight, experiences chronic diarrhea, has colic episodes, or simply seems unthrifty, it might mean it’s time to discuss the possibility of February 2018 / 47

parasite problems with your veterinarian. Additional fecal egg-count testing might be recommended.

HOW MUCH IS TOO MUCH? While most of the time it’s a good thing that our horses are staying healthy into their

Diagnosing and Treating PPID (Cushing’s Disease) Then: Diagnosed in humans for over a century, the disease then known as Cushing’s wasn’t recognized in horses until the 1960s. For many years, a diagnosis depended on recognizing clinical signs such as a long haircoat and loss of muscle tone. If Cushing’s was suspected, your vet might’ve recommended routine blood work to detect an increased glucose level. No specific treatment was available; Cushing’s management included body clipping, vigilant hoof care to reduce risk of laminitis, and careful monitoring for skin infections that can accompany the disease.

Now: Now more specifically named, PPID can be diagnosed with a blood test, and medications are available to help control symptoms. Most commonly, your vet will perform a test that measures ACTH, a hormone that’s elevated in horses with PPID, to make the diagnosis. Other tests are available, including a stimulation test that’s even more sensitive and can specifically diagnose PPID earlier in horses showing symptoms. Although the disease can’t be cured, early diagnosis and specific treatment helps control symptoms, which might help your horse live a longer, healthier life.

What to watch for: Estimates say that 20 percent of horses older than age 15 have PPID. With that in mind, it makes sense to put it on your radar simply because your horse is growing older.

Consider including a screening test as a part of your annual health-care plan. If your horse develops a long, curly hair coat that doesn’t shed out in the spring; chronic skin infections; or recurrent dental problems, it might also be time to request a test.

If your horse is diagnosed with PPID, don’t delay in starting the recommended treatment. Pay attention to ongoing research about this disease to keep yourself informed. Veterinarians and researchers are learning more about PPID every day.

48 / HorseandRider.com

golden years, there are times when I find myself wondering about our expectations for our aging partners. Is it fair to expect a 30-year-old horse that’s stiff and sore to tackle mountainous terrain on a rigorous trail ride? Or for a horse in his mid-20s to hit the road traveling on a busy show circuit? Sometimes yes; sometimes no. Deciding when it’s time to call it quits is one of the hardest decisions horse owners face.

Think of it this way. When you’re riding your 30-year-old horse, it’s a lot like taking your 90-year-old grandmother on a hike. And while some in their 90s might relish the idea, most would probably prefer a somewhat less-demanding activity. If your 32-year-old horse seems to be “slowing down,” give him a break! Instead of asking what you can do to keep him going, consider what he might like to do instead.

Lameness Diagnosis and Treatment Then: Just like humans, previous injuries and a lifetime of wear and tear can haunt your horse as he grows older. In decades past, a lameness diagnosis often depended on a good clinical exam, nerve blocks, and possibly some radiographs. Treatment was typically limited to rest, some kind of corrective shoeing, and perhaps a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication (such as phenylbutazone, commonly referred to as “bute”). Controlled rehabilitation programs following injuries were uncommon, and many a suspected tendon injury was managed with a year of turnout—nothing more. Alternative therapies, such as acupuncture, shockwave therapy, and bodywork to help maintain soundness, weren’t widely available to horse owners. Preventive treatments were few and far between. Horses depended on good, old-fashioned horsemanship to keep them sound.

Now: Good, old-fashioned horsemanship is still important, but these days the ability to specifically diagnose a lameness and apply a range of targeted treatments mean horses are staying sounder, longer. If your horse experiences an injury, diagnostic tests—such as detailed ultrasound examinations, nuclear scintigraphy, and MRI—provide a good chance of precisely identifying the specific damage. With a precise diagnosis, you can take advantage

of injury-specific treatments, including platelet-rich plasma and stem-cell therapy. This means a better outcome, and a better chance your horse will heal completely so his injury won’t come back to haunt him as he ages, which is vital for senior horses to thrive.

Advances in surgical techniques also play a role in successful treatment, ranging from the arthroscopic cleanup of an osteochondrosis lesion in a young horse that’ll allow him to stay sound to the repair of a broken bone following a catastrophic injury.

Finally, the wide range of preventive therapies available means your horse is less likely to be injured in the first place and gives you tools to help keep him comfortable as he ages.

What to watch for: Ask your vet to perform a yearly soundness evaluation as your horse grows older. This will allow you to identify smoldering injuries as early as possible and take advantage of all of the diagnostic tools and treatment options available. You can also discuss the appropriate time to initiate any preventive therapies your vet might recommend.

With all that’s now available, it’s no wonder your horse could still be traveling down the trail well into his 30s.

No doubt about it, 30 is the new 20.

Access our vast library of senior-related information on HorseandRider .com this month.

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February 2018 / 49

Working equitation showcases the skills and riding techniques developed in countries around the world to work cattle and perform other ranch chores. The sport originally emerged from Portugal, Spain, France, and Italy.

50 / HorseandRider.com

PHOTO BY BIANCA McCARTY

Fast & Furious— & Precise The sport of working equitation, relatively new to the U.S., is finding ardent fans among Western performance-horse enthusiasts.

+

BY JENNIFER FORSBERG MEYER

February 2018 / 51

W

hat combines the beauty of dressage, the thrill of speed events, the precision of a trail class, and the skill set of a working ranch horse?

That would be working equitation (WE), a discipline popular in Europe and rapidly gaining adherents in the U.S. Founded in the mid-1990s in Portugal, Spain, France, and Italy, this international sport showcases the equitation techniques developed in countries that use horses to do ranch work.

And, within the last four years, the WE craze has taken off in earnest in the U.S. “We’ve been seeing an increase of about 20 percent per year in the number of licensed competitions offered,” says Julie Alonzo, past-president of WE United, one of the organizations promoting the discipline here in the States. “Western riders with a solid foundation in ranch riding and those who follow the vaquero traditions have been making an impact in the sport.”

Working equitation involves four phases—working dressage; ease of handling with obstacles; speed with obstacles; and, in the highest-level events, cattle handling. (For details, see “Working Equitation, Explained,” at right.)

Is WE for you and your horse? Read on to learn how others have found their way into this fascinating sport.

Perfect Starting Point Robin Bond trains out of Deer Springs Equestrian Center in San Marcos, California, and nearby Rancho Descanso in Valley Center. A fan of the traditional vaquero method of training cow horses, she’s shown three mounts in the National Reined Cow Horse Association Futurity. Her gelding Chapo (Joses Perfection) was top 10 in NRCHA bridle horse competition in 2006. In 2014, she pulled the 14.3-hand Quarter Horse gelding out of retirement to show in her first WE event.

“It was at the Andalusian World Cup in Las Vegas, where the working equitation was held as an open class,” she recalls. (WE was introduced to the U.S. by breed organizations for Andalusians and Lusitanos, the natural cow

Robin Bond in the dressage phase (below). Bond and Joses Perfection, a former top-10 NRCHA bridle horse (at right), were the high-scoring entry their first time out at intermediate-level working equitation.

52 / HorseandRider.com

PHOTOS BY LISA MARIE PHOTOGRAPHY, COURTESY OF ROBIN BOND

Dressage is the first phase of a working equitation event. Entries execute a set pattern; judging criteria include the rider’s horsemanship and the horse’s balance, impulsion, and willingness.

horses of the Iberian Peninsula. Now a large portion of entries in this country are Quarter Horses.)

“We were in the intermediate division,” Bond continues. “My little cow horse went around under a Portuguese

judge and wound up the high-scoring horse—our first time out. It was great!”

WE encourages competitors to show in the traditional gear of the rider’s country and/or of the type of horse ridden. At an event, you’ll see entries

turned out in all manner of English and Western gear, all competing against each other.

“I adore the fact that you can go to a show and see someone in dressage attire, someone in a charro outfit, someone in California bridle horse gear—and we’re all doing the same thing. It’s an incredible concept,” Bond says.

She adds that regardless of the tack you’re in, you’ll be judged in part on your horse’s quality of movement.

“You’ll have to break out of that jog— you’ve got to genuinely trot—and your horse must show some engagement of the hindquarters.”

Bond’s ultimate goal for herself is a challenging one.

“I want to compete in the ranch versatility riding class at the Quarter

WORKING EQUITATION, EXPLAINED WE presents classes at various levels, including children’s, introductory (walk/trot), novice, intermediate, advanced, and masters.

As riders progress through the levels, they must demonstrate ever-increasing skill in riding from the legs and seat, transitioning smoothly between gaits, balancing while riding circles of various sizes, and performing lateral movements.

Though flying lead changes aren’t required at the lowest levels, at the higher levels, “working equitation is all about cantering and turning and changing leads,” says Rob Zimmerman of South Ridge Farms in Ridgefield, Washington, host to clinics of the noted Pedro Torres Academy of Working Equitation. “You’ll see collected canters, with upright carriage. It’s not so different from what we think

Competitors are encouraged to show in the traditional gear of the

of as a finished bridle horse—one that you ride with light contact

rider’s country and/or of the type of horse ridden.

while using your seat and legs. Softness and lightness are key.”

The four phases that comprise WE are:

as placing a pole in a drum, skewering a ring with a pole, and

• Dressage Trial. As in traditional and Western dressage, entries

moving an earthenware jug.

execute a set pattern. Judging criteria include quality of movement

• Speed Trial. Thrilling to watch, this timed phase requires entries

(especially engagement of the hindquarters), the horse’s willing-

to navigate a course of obstacles while demonstrating both

ness, and the rider’s equitation.

speed and accuracy. It’s required at all levels except children’s

• Ease-of-Handling Trial. As in a traditional trail class, entries

and introductory.

navigate from eight to 15 obstacles, depending on the level.

• Cow Trial. As in team penning, entries must work in combination

Designed to simulate the tasks required on working ranches

to sort and pen a cow. To make WE competitions easier to present

around the world, obstacles may include such familiar items as a

and available more widely, the cow trial is not yet widely offered at

gate, bridge, and L back-up, as well as more esoteric ones, such

events in the U.S. (and it’s never required at the introductory level).

TOP PHOTO BY MICHAEL T. PHOTOGRAPHY, COURTESY OF WE UNITED; BOTTOM PHOTO BY BIANCA McCARTY

February 2018 / 53

EARLY ADOPTER

BOOSTER GROUPS

Sue Watkins of Riverside, California, was

Here are the organizations pro-

one of the first non-Andalusian/Lusitano

moting Western equitation in the

trainers to take up working equitation;

U.S. and abroad.

she’s been competing in it since 2010.

She’s shown astride Kiger Dios Estoy

• WE United; weunited.us.

Aqui KCA, her 7-year-old BLM-branded Kiger mustang stallion, the 2017 working

• Confederation for Working Equi-

equitation novice B champion.

tation; confederationwe.us.

“WE is the perfect balance of proper riding techniques, confidence building, and fun,” she maintains.

See her five-minute video explaining the sport at HorseandRider.com.

• WE Can; workingequitation canada.com.

• World Association for Working Equitation; wawe-official.com.

Horse World Show,” she says, “then compete with that same horse at an equally advanced level in working equitation. I don’t know if it can be done, but that’s what I’m shooting for.”

You needn’t have your sights set that high, though, to benefit from WE. “This sport will teach you a variety of skills, and you can work your way up naturally in the competition,” notes

Jill Lovelace of Oregon says she’s won several working equitation classes after being “not the best” in dressage, then moving up after doing well in the two obstacles phases.

54 / HorseandRider.com

Bond. “It’s not like reining, where right away you have to manage sliding stops and lead changes.”

That means the lowest levels of WE provide the perfect starting point for novice riders.

Don’t Fear the Dressage Jill Lovelace boards and trains at the Emerald Valley Equestrian Center in Eugene, Oregon. She and her 14-yearold Foundation Quarter Horse gelding, Driftin Juniper, have competed in drill team, mountain trail, stock horse, and cow sorting.

“And now working equitation!” she

says with relish, noting that she had some major challenges along the way.

“I started riding late—at 49—and my horse has had a number of issues, both mental and physical. Plus I wasn’t initially a fan of dressage.”

She found, though, that lessthan-optimal dressage skills don’t necessarily kill your chances.

“It’s a progression,” she explains of the competitions. “The dressage comes first, then the ease of handling, then the speed. You can be fourth in dressage, then move up later on. I’ve won several times while being ‘not the best’ in dressage.”

For all these reasons, she says, WE is something you can do with “the horse you have.”

“Like dressage alone, working equitation will make your horse better and better. I hated to see the natural carriage go away in the stock horse events I’d been showing in. WE, by contrast, is much more ‘body-friendly’ for your horse—there’s a lot of suppling and stretching. I wanted to learn self-carriage for my horse and the proper biomechanics of riding for myself, and that’s exactly what I’ve gotten out of it.”

And, as a bonus, she says her horse “loves it as much as I do.”

To learn more about this emerging sport, including how to get involved, see “Booster Groups," above.

TOP PHOTO BY KURTZ PHOTOGRAPHY, COURTESY OF SUSAN WATKINS; BOTTOM PHOTO BY MICHAEL T. PHOTOGRAPHY, COURTESY OF JILL LOVELACE

February 2018 / 55

Use our ďŹ ve-step process to research your horse’s potential retirement facility carefully to ensure responsible care and a good atmosphere for your cherished senior horse.

56 / HorseandRider.com

PHOTO BY ABIGAIL BOATWRIGHT

Rest

& Relaxation Choose the right retirement facility for your senior horse with this step-by-step guide.

BY ABIGAIL BOATWRIGHT

B

EAU WAS PERFORMING AT A HIGH LEVEL. HIS OWNER, MARY JEAN GEROULO, boarded him at a top-notch mid-city facility where care of competition horses was excellent. Time went by. Age and health problems sidelined Beau. It was time for him to retire. Geroulo relocated the big bay gelding to a facility in the country that caters to the specific needs of retired horses. Now 27, Beau is happy. Geroulo rests easy knowing he’s content, safe, and well cared for.

You might one day need to find retirement quarters for your own senior horse. He’s carried you through years of competition, down miles of trails, and through seasons of life. When his active riding career comes to an end, what’s the next step? We asked two senior-care providers for their best tips to find the right retirement facility for your horse. Here’s their step-by-step guide.

Step 1: Determine Your Horse’s Needs Older horses often have health issues and require daily medications. For a typical boarding facility, this might be outside the bounds of everyday care. But for a retirement facility, this is an essential part of keeping those horses healthy.

Roseanna McMillan runs White Rock Manor in Lexington, Virginia, with her husband, James. Before you choose a facility, McMillan says, consider your horse’s abilities and needs.

Is he pasture-sound? Does he need to be blanketed in the winter? Make sure your chosen

facility can provide top care tailored to your horse’s particular needs.

Dawn Johnson owns and operates Cottonwood Stables, a retirement facility in Crockett, Texas. She cares for several horses with pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID) and anhidrosis—both require careful management, particularly during hot Texas summers.

Other horses have dental diseases that require close observation and other issues that need a watchful eye. Johnson’s team pays close attention to the health of their charges, and if one February 2018 / 57

is no longer happy or healthy, they’ll work to improve his conditions. But Johnson also recognizes when it’s time to have a difficult conversation with the owners.

“If I can’t make a horse better and make him comfortable, and if he doesn’t seem happy or healthy, then I’ll contact the owner and have a conversation about humanely euthanizing the horse,” Johnson says.

Johnson’s facility—25-stall barn, outdoor arena (converted to turnout), large pasture, and several smaller pastures—offers a different kind of atmosphere better suited to the slower tempo of an older horse’s life. Cottonwood Stables residents spend the majority of their time on pasture in groups of two and three horses, perfect for most senior horses that could struggle in a larger herd.

“One of their biggest problems my horse owners wanted to address from previous lodging was group turnout,” she says. “Their horse was the older one, and he was at the bottom of the 58 / HorseandRider.com

heap. He wasn’t getting food, so he was losing weight and just didn’t look good because he wasn’t getting daily care.

Our horses here are handled every day.

We are out there feeding them, grooming them, and cleaning their feet. And when it comes time for feeding, everybody gets fed separately. We don’t just throw a bunch of food out there.”

Step 2: Do Your Research— and Be Picky!

“Websites and brochures can look fantastic, but you need to see a facility for yourself,” McMillan cautions. “It’s worth doing your homework, rather than sending your horse somewhere that could potentially be bad for him.”

Johnson recommends looking at the other horses boarded at your horse’s potential new home. Are their feet maintained? Are they healthy and happy-looking? These are good signs your horse will also thrive in this atmosphere. Pay attention to the same things you look for in a good boarding establishment: competency of care,

experienced staff, good references, and a positive track record.

“Are the stalls clean? Are the water buckets full? How safe is the barn?

How safe is the fencing?” Johnson suggests you ask. “What do the horses look like? Look for cuts and unexpected limping. Is this someplace you’d want to live for the rest of your life?”

McMillan advises asking specific, clarifying questions of the facility owner or manager. For example, if you’re told there are 400 acres of turnout pasture, ask if your horse’s specific turnout needs will be met. If he’ll be turned out with a large herd and left to fend for himself, and that situation doesn’t suit his personality, then the 400 acres hardly matter.

Also consider location, says McMillan. If you live in a metropolitan area, you might be hard-pressed to find a facility with adequate land to allow your horse freedom to move around most of the day. If you live in a very cold or very warm climate, your older horse may struggle during the extreme

PHOTO COURTESY OF ROSEANNA McMILLAN

FAR-LEFT: Favor small-herd turnout so your senior can get food and water without anxiety. TOP-RIGHT: A run-in shed provides your horse a dry, warm place to get out of the elements, while allowing free movement. BOTTOM-LEFT: At White Rock Manor, each horse receives a custom diet with supplements and medication as needed. BOTTOM-RIGHT: Pasture companions keep each other active.

McMillan agrees, noting that a typical show horse might spend 12 or 14 hours without moving freely. But for an older horse, inactivity can cause stiffness and stocking up.

Step 4: Look for Routine

temperatures that he previously handled with ease.

Step 3: Select the Right Atmosphere Talk to other boarders to ensure that you’re comfortable with the facility’s atmosphere. Johnson’s Cottonwood Stables is a retirement haven for 30 performance horses that can no longer be ridden; many are geriatric. Most of the owners of Johnson’s charges chose her facility as a long-term residence for their former show horses.

“When a performance horse reaches an age where he’s living with health or soundness issues and he can no longer do his job, the owner may look around at the training barn and think, is this where I want my horse to spend the rest of his life?” Johnson says. “The horse might spend four hours a day

turned out and the rest of the time in a stall. And unless the owner is there to take care of him, the horse might not get individualized attention that a senior horse can require.”

Johnson maintains that a horse used to a life of strenuous competition is accustomed to being pampered and kept in a stall, so full turnout isn’t always the best option, at least not to begin his retirement. Complete turnout could be a shock to his system, she says. Consider how your horse has been housed throughout his life when planning for retirement, and expect an adjustment period. In the meantime, find a way to keep him moving.

“I’ve learned from working with veterinarians that older horses with arthritis and other issues are better out and about, moving instead of standing in a stall,” Johnson advises.

TOP PHOTO COURTESY OF ROSEANNA McMILLAN; BOTTOM PHOTOS COURTESY OF DAWN JOHNSON

Having a regular routine boosts your senior horse’s health and comfort level. “Each morning when I go to feed at 7:00, they’re all taking their morning nap in the sun to warm their bodies up,” says McMillan. “They get their grain and their hay, and then they wander out to the waterer, which is a really great chance [for me] to observe each horse and see that they’re all healthy and traveling in a group.”

Cottonwood Stables’ horses have standing farrier appointments every six weeks. A veterinarian vaccinates and floats all residents’ teeth on a schedule, checking for dental issues and heading them off early when possible, thanks to this routine.

“We recognize the signs [of not getting enough nutrition] and can do something before anything reaches a critical level,” Johnson says. “Every horse has his own bucket that’s color-coded, and each horse is on a different medication, supplement, and diet. We always check to make sure the horses are eating—we don’t just feed them and walk away.”

Step 4: Budget for Costs As you narrow down your choices, consider cost of care. Cottonwood Stables charges a flat rate for all care—including medical maintenance, blanketing, stall cleaning, bathing and grooming, specialized feeding, and more. Each horse’s individual shoeing February 2018 / 59

YOUR RETIREMENT BENEFIT You might be considering keeping your retired mount on your own property. While that’s a viable choice, consider the amount of care involved.

Roseanna McMillan, who developed White Rock Manor in the late 1980s, notes that entrusting your older horse into the care of knowledgeable and committed professionals allows you more flexibility.

“When a horse comes to me, his care and well-being are paramount,” McMillan says. “Having a retired horse at home ties you down. If you want to go away for a week, you have to make arrangements

Step 5: Ask for Updates

A show horse is accustomed to pampering

for someone to stay on your place

After you’ve moved your horse into your chosen retirement facility, establish reasonable communication protocols with the facility owner or manager. Then ask for regular updates on your horse’s condition.

“I joke with my owners that I’m running a summer camp,” McMillan says with a smile. “They might not get a letter from their camper, but a photograph and an update from the retirement facility isn’t unreasonable to expect. It’ll help you keep an eye on your horse’s body condition and feet. Plus, this is a horse that’s taken care of you, and you love him enough that you’re giving him a comfortable retirement. You don’t want to send your horse somewhere and then find out six months later he’s the lowest one in a herd of 30 and isn’t allowed to get to the water trough without getting beaten up.

That’s why it’s so important to research where you send your horse and have good communication.”

Geroulo chose Cottonwood Stables, located 2½ hours away from her home, because the horses were turned out in small groups in large fields with access to grass and shade trees. She valued Johnson’s horsecare experience and attention to each

and attention. Ensure that the retirement

and provide the level of care your horse needs and expects. I don’t think having a horse-sitter check on your horse twice a day is sufficient, especially an older horse.”

and veterinary costs are extra.

“There’s no question: horse ownership is not a cheap pursuit, but we try to keep our fees down,” Johnson says.

In addition to monthly board fees, consider and clearly communicate with your horse’s caretaker the amount of extraordinary effort you’re willing to pay for when it comes to veterinary procedures and care. These costs add up and can compromise your horse’s well being for the long term.

“If your horse colics, do you want the veterinarian to treat him with surgery or other more extreme methods, or is euthanasia feasible?” McMillan asks. “Is going to the hospital something you want for the horse? Your horse’s caretaker should know what you’d want in an emergency. Having those conversations ahead of time helps the owner prepare for the possibilities, and the barn manager to know what everyone’s wishes are.”

60 / HorseandRider.com

facility is willing to ease into a slower-paced lifestyle, adding more turnout time incrementally so your horse can adjust.

horse’s condition, and she appreciated Johnson’s clear communication regarding her horse’s health.

“I cried and cried when I left him with Dawn,” Geroulo admits. “Beau was with me through difficult jobs, through moves, going to law school, being treated for cancer. To send him away, it felt like I was giving up on him.

But it became obvious quickly that he’s really happy there.”

Geroulo visits Beau several times a year; she’s relieved that the elderly gelding is thriving. She also feels reassured by the weekly emails and photos she receives from Johnson about her horse.

“These horses that have gone to shows with us and carried us around most of their lives, living in barns because it’s convenient for us,” Geroulo says. “I think they deserve the best that we can give them when they retire. That, to me, is a place where they can go out on grass with the sun on their back, with the best care we can possibly give them.”

PHOTO BY ABIGAIL BOATWRIGHT

Can We Find A HOME FOR EVERY HORSE?

26 Trainers • 26 Rescue Horses, ages 3 to 10 • 90 Days of Training The Rocky Mountain Horse Expo is excited to host the sixth Equine Comeback Challenge (ECC). Follow these 26 teams as they post their progress on A Home for Every Horse’s Facebook page. Plan to attend in person and cheer for YOUR favorite at the Grand Finale competition,

March 8-11, 2018 at the Rocky Mountain Horse Expo.

The horses will be available for adoption at the end of the competition.

ECC participants and new owners will be provided with supplies from sponsors Purina Mills, ElectroBraid, Tractor Supply Co., WeatherBeeta, and Merck.

Learn More at ahomeforeveryhorse.com/equine-comeback-challenge Find out more about the Rocky Mountain Horse Expo at coloradohorsecouncil.com/rmhe

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62 / HorseandRider.com

Tucson, Arizona, is steeped in Western history and cattle ranching, a heritage local guest ranches, such as Tanque Verde Ranch, keep alive for all to enjoy.

Arizona Trails Snow on the ground? Give your trail horse a break, and enjoy the rustic elegance of a Tucson guest ranch.

BY KENT AND CHARLENE KRONE

PH OTO BY KENT AND CHARLE NE KRONE

February 2018 / 63

You awaken to the sound of galloping horses thundering into a corral. Out your window you catch glimpses of these steeds racing through clouds of dust to wranglers’ shouts.

After a hearty breakfast, you find your personal horse, and mount up.

You pen horses, tend cattle, then enjoy a rugged ride in the mountains followed by a lope through an endless desert. A great sense of freedom and serenity settles in. You have a tasty lunch on the trail, then ride back and settle down on the ranch house’s front porch until time for a chuckwagon barbecue dinner. You top off the evening with a soak in a spa and the libation of your choice.

Welcome to a guest-ranch vacation in warm, welcoming Tucson, Arizona. The area is steeped in Western history and cattle ranching, a heritage local guest ranches keep alive for all to enjoy.

We’ve found that a guest-ranch experience can be life-changing. Many folks leave the ranch with a renewed sense of purpose. Guest ranches also create a sense of family that will tempt you to return year after year.

Ready to hit Arizona trails and enjoy authentic accommodations? Here’s the rundown on four of Tucson’s best guest ranches: Elkhorn Ranch, Hacienda Del Sol Guest Ranch Resort, Tanque Verde Ranch, and White Stallion Ranch.

64 / HorseandRider.com

P H OTO BY KENT A ND C H A R L ENE KR O N E

FAR-LEFT: Step into Hacienda Del Sol Guest Ranch Resort, and travel back to Tucson’s luxurious past. TOP-RIGHT: White Stallion Ranch’s mountain rides take you to Movie Pass in the Tucson Mountains, where Hollywood Westerns were filmed. BOTTOM-RIGHT: Riding Elkhorn Ranch’s 10,000 acres is an adventurous way to experience area trails.

ty to form a bond between rider and horse. Riding the ranch’s 10,000 acres is an adventurous way to experience the area trails. Lope in the desert, walk the remote canyons, and tackle the Baboquivari Mountains. A delicious lunch is included on all day-rides.

Six guides take out small riding groups; each ride is tailored to the guests’ desires. The horses get every Sunday off, creating a perfect time to relax, swim, hike, birdwatch, and see the local sights.

Hacienda Del Sol Guest Ranch Resort

Elkhorn Ranch Elkhorn Ranch (elkhornranch.com), 50 miles southwest of Tucson, focuses on top-notch trail horses, a value passed down through generations. In 1922 Ernest and Grace Miller started their first Elkhorn Ranch in Montana’s Gallatin Valley. In 1945 the Millers came to the Baboquivari Mountains, 50 miles southwest of Tucson, to establish a winter-season working and guest ranch.

For years the Millers hauled their horses, tack, and all the guest-ranch trappings north and south with the seasons. Finally, in 1961, their son Bob and his wife, Jan, stayed in Arizona.

With their four children they built the Elkhorn Ranch into the wonderful place you see today.

The third generation of the family— Charley and Mary Miller and Tom and Anne Miller—live and work at Elkhorn

year-round, maintaining the working ranch and raising and training their treasured horses.

The ranch herd currently consists of about 120 saddle horses, breeding stock, and colts. The Millers established their own breeding program at Elkhorn with a Thoroughbred-Percheron cross stallion and Quarter Horse mares.

Draft-cross horses typically have sound minds and strong, athletic bodies.

As foals mature, they’re gradually turned out onto the mountainous country around the ranch. The Millers’ training program starts colts around age 2 and turns the horses into trail mounts around age 4. The Millers take their time to prepare trail mounts mentally and physically.

Guests may keep the same horse throughout their visit. Riding the same horse every day creates an opportuni-

Hacienda Del Sol Guest Ranch Resort (haciendadelsol.com) is located on Tucson’s northern edge. The ranch’s Spanish Colonial architectural style is inspired by the Moorish architecture of the 18th and 19th centuries. Step into Hacienda Del Sol, and travel back to the luxurious days of Tucson’s past. The resort is one of our nation’s Historic Hotels of America, recognized by the National Trust for Historic Preservation.

Original owners John and Helen Murphey, who helped build the ranch, were connoisseurs of beauty. Helen helped carve intricate patterns into the library’s beamed ceilings. Hand-hammered light fixtures and hand-painted tiles were done by local artisans. The Murpheys designed their hacienda to be a desert haven and an artistic retreat.

From 1929 to 1948 the place was called the Hacienda Del Sol Ranch School for Girls, offering a college-preparatory curriculum along with Western ranch activities. The ranch gained national recognition with such names on the roster as Pillsbury, Vanderbilt, Kellogg, Westinghouse, and Campbell.

In the late 1930s, famous Swiss architect Josias Joesler was commis-

WHITE STALLION RANCH PHOTO BY KENT AND CHARLENE KRONE; ELKHORN RANCH PHOTO BY ZIEMBA PHOTOGRAPHIC ARTS

February 2018 / 65

TOP: At Hacienda Del Sol’s original entrance we were greeted with an array of native flowers, shrubbery, and herbs. BOTTOM: The breakfast ride at Tanque Verde was a favorite: morning light bathed the cholla cactus and reflected off wind-sculptured rocks.

sioned to rebuild areas of the hacienda in a Southwestern style that was later instrumental in influencing Tucson’s distinct architecture. Hacienda Del Sol is one of the oldest examples of Joesler’s work in the region. His work continued until 1948 when the property became a guest ranch.

As a guest ranch, it became a favorite hideaway for such luminaries as Spencer Tracy, Katherine Hepburn, John Wayne, Clark Gable, and Howard Hughes. Eventually the ranch fell into decline until 1995 when new owners envisioned restoring the hacienda to its former glory. Great care was taken in keeping the original buildings and natural surroundings intact. This architectural showpiece features thick adobe walls, beehive fireplaces, and loving personal touches. In 2005 32 additional guest rooms with views of the Santa Catalina Mountains were added to the resort.

The grand design, along with elegant and casual dining options, make Hacienda Del Sol a once-in-a-lifetime guest-ranch destination.

At the original entrance we were greeted with an array of flowers, shrubbery, and herbs. In the lobby we explored rooms restored to their past grandeur. Of particular interest to us was the small library, intact with original books from the 1930s.

The stables are located down the hill from the main structures. There are fewer trail-riding opportunities here than at other area guest ranches.

However, the ranch does offer short, cross-country, and sunset rides. Amble through a gorgeous desert with expansive vistas aboard one of the resort’s trusty mounts.

Tanque Verde Ranch Tanque Verde Ranch (tanqueverde ranch.com) may well be the crown 66 / HorseandRider.com

jewel of Arizona guest ranches. Location plays a big role. Situated east of Tucson and encompassing 640 deeded acres and 60,000 leased acres, the ranch rises into the Rincon Mountains bordered by Saguaro National Park and Coronado National Forest.

Brownie Cote, a member of the Dude Ranchers Hall of Fame, first developed the property into a guest ranch. He was motivated by a passion to “develop the lives of youth.” What better way to achieve this goal than through outdoor activities and horseback riding?

The Cote family still owns and manages the ranch. Over the years Tanque Verde has expanded to accommodate a variety of guests yet has retained its true nature. It’s a beautiful ranch where guests can ride to their heart’s

delight, then ride some more. With a choice of 150 trail mounts, each guest can be carefully matched to a horse.

Tanque Verde offers a variety of rides daily, along with specialty rides, such as sunset and breakfast rides.

The breakfast ride was a favorite of ours: soft, buttery morning light bathed the cholla cactus and reflected off wind-sculptured rocks. As the sun peered over the Rincon Mountains and we reached the breakfast spot, the smell of bacon infused the sagebrush-scented air. A perfect morning!

Tanque Verde knows the most important ingredient of a successful guest ranch—happy, satisfied guests!

The ranch strives to make each guest’s stay a memorable, happy experience.

Larry and Gina Beltrame traveled

P H OTOS BY KENT A ND C H A R L ENE KR ON E

Horses teach us extraordinary lessons... to hold on to hope. At Hope in the Saddle, our mission is to

Share your story and read those of others at www.hopeinthesaddle.com THANK YOU TO OUR PARTNERS FOR HELPING OUR HORSES FEEL THEIR BEST SO THEY CAN HELP US FEEL OUR BEST

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Here are our top prep tips for a memorable guest-ranch vacation in Tucson, Arizona.

Choose your season. The best times to go are winter, spring, and late fall, when temperatures aren’t as hot. Season determines what you’ll pack and the rate you’ll pay.

Do your homework. Study each ranch to decide which one best meets your needs. Find out what personal items are supplied in guest rooms. Ask about the liquor policy. If needed, ask whether the ranch accommodates special diets.

Find out the weight limit for riding.

Check the ranch’s website for suggestions and requirements.

Pack for desert riding. Layer your riding apparel. In the desert, the mornings can be quite cool and the afternoons hot. Pack lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and sunscreen. Bring your own

heading out on their first horseback ride. “It doesn’t get better than this!”

Julie told us with a grin.

When you’re not riding, sign up of one of Tanque Verde’s educational programs. We loved the nature walk! We learned about the edible and medicinal properties of plants we see when riding in the desert. After a day in the saddle, you can soothe away soreness in the hot tub, followed by the ranch’s signature prickly pear margarita.

Western hat or well-ventilated, brimmed riding helmet. Riding

White Stallion Ranch

boots without laces are best;

We first visited White Stallion Ranch (whitestallion.com) on a warm, sunny winter day. We’d just left snowy western Montana and reveled in the contrast. We’d heard about the ranch by word-of-mouth. The ranch lived up to and exceeded our expectations.

Russel True’s parents acquired the ranch in 1965. Russel is enthusiastic about the ranch and its history. White Stallion was built in the early 1900s as a cattle ranch. The original buildings were made from adobe brick.

David Young, the property’s first deeded owner, homesteaded here from 1936 to 1939. Gradually the property became a guest ranch and was purchased by Russel’s parents, Allen and Cynthia True. At that time the ranch consisted of 17 rooms, 17 horses, and 200 acres. Tucson was expanding, causing a drastic drop in the number of guest ranches. Being farsighted, the Trues began purchasing land, increasing the ranch size to 3,000 acres.

Today the ranch has 41 rooms plus a

smooth leather repels cholla cactus and desert debris. Add a sturdy water bottle to stay hydrated.

Get ready to ride. If you haven’t ridden in some time or ride casually, get in some serious saddle time before you go so you’re ready for long rides and desert gallops. Pack long underwear to cut saddle chafing.

here from Des Moines, Iowa. Larry, who loves horses, was having the time of his life. Gina, who was unable to ride because of a car accident, worried that she’d feel like “a fish out of water.”

Much to her delight, she loved all the non-horse activities, as well as the ranch camaraderie.

Julie and Amanda Michel, a cheerful mother-daughter couple from North Dakota, loved the sun and spa service. In the morning, they were 68 / HorseandRider.com

White Stallion Ranch has 41 rooms, plus a four-bedroom hacienda.

four-bedroom hacienda.

White Stallion Ranch has one of the largest privately owned herds of horses in Arizona and a herd of cattle. The Trues do a good job of putting these horses to use; there are a number of rides to choose from. Mountain rides take you into the Tucson Mountains to Movie Pass, named for the Hollywood movies filmed there over the last 50 years. They also offer half-day rides, wine-and-cheese rides, and fast rides.

Fast rides are an exciting way to experience the desert. There’s nothing like galloping on a speedy, well-trained ranch mount with the wind in your face and saguaros flying by. To do the fast ride you must pass a loping test in the arena. We had to take the test even though we’re horse owners. We felt better when we learned that a world champion rodeo cowboy vacationing at the ranch also had to take the test.

Our favorite was the all-day ride, a combination of walking and loping on a 23-mile loop through a section of Saguaro National Park. Consider this ride if you’re an experienced and conditioned trail rider, as you’ll be in the saddle for around eight hours.

However, time goes by quickly as you ride through rugged canyons and stretches of desert and visit Native American petroglyphs. It’s an excellent way to cap your vacation at White Stallion Ranch.

P H OTO BY KENT A ND C H A R L ENE KR O N E

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WHERE TO RIDE GUIDE Golden Acres Foxtrotter Ranch www.goldenacresfoxtrotterranch.com ................. 69 Hay Creek Ranch www.haycreekranch.net........................................ 69 M Lazy C Guest Ranch www.mlazyc.com ................................................... 69 Valley Springs Foxtrotters/Brushy Creek Lodge www.brushycreeklodge.com ................................. 69

PUBLICATIONS, VIDEO, WEBSITES & AUDIO A Home For Every Horse www.AHomeForEveryHorse.com ......................... 61 AIM Equine U www.aimequineu.com ........................................... 43

HORSE & RIDER VOLUME LVII, NUMBER 2 (ISSN 0018-5159/USPS 523-410) COPYRIGHT 2018, CRUZ BAY PUBLISHING, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY CRUZ BAY PUBLISHING, INC., AN ACTIVE INTEREST MEDIA COMPANY. THE KNOWN OFFICE OF PUBLICATION IS AT 5720 FLATIRON PARKWAY, BOULDER, CO 80301. PERIODICALS POSTAGE PAID AT BOULDER, CO. AND AT ADDITIONAL MAILING OFFICES. POSTMASTER: PLEASE SEND CHANGE OF ADDRESS TO HORSE & RIDER, SUBSCRIPTION SERVICE DEPT., P.O. BOX 420235, PALM COAST, FL 32142-0235. CANADA POST PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT NO. 40612608, CANADIAN GST NUMBER 12345 2781 RT0001. CANADA RETURNS TO BE SENT TO BLEUCHIP INTERNATIONAL, P.O. BOX 25542, LONDON, ON N6C 6B2 CANADA. ONE YEAR (12 ISSUES) SUBSCRIPTION RATE: $24 UNITED STATES. THE CONTENTS OF THIS MAGAZINE MAY NOT BE REPRODUCED IN WHOLE OR IN PART WITHOUT CONSENT OF THE COPYRIGHT OWNER. OPINIONS EXPRESSED HEREIN ARE THOSE OF THE EXPERTS CONSULTED, AND DO NOT NECESSARILY REFLECT THE OPINIONS OF THE EDITORS OR POLICY OF HORSE & RIDER MAGAZINE. UNSOLICITED MANUSCRIPTS AND PHOTOGRAPHS ACCOMPANIED BY RETURN POSTAGE WILL BE HANDLED WITH CARE, BUT PUBLISHER IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR THEIR SAFETY. PLEASE ALLOW 3 MONTHS FOR REPLY. REPRINTS: CONTACT WRIGHTS REPRINTS TO PURCHASE QUALITY CUSTOM REPRINTS OR E-PRINTS OF ARTICLES APPEARING IN THIS PUBLICATION AT (877)652-5295 (281/419-5725 OUTSIDE THE U.S. AND CANADA)

Classifieds APPAREL/ACCESSORIES

REAL ESTATE/LAND

TACK/SADDLES/LEATHER GOODS

Looking for horse property around Dallas - Fort Worth?

Visit: www.texasliving.com. We’re an elite group of horse property specialists with Keller Williams Realty. (940) 3654687, ext.1, info@texasliving.com

TRAIL RIDES

Free catalog! Hobby Horse has ready-to-win western show apparel, tack, saddles, and accessories. (800) 569-5885 or www.hobbyhorseinc.com.

Mitchell’s www.one-stop-horse-shop.com for show apparel at great prices! Jewelry, hair bows, show tack, show blankets, accessories. Great customer service.

ASSOCIATIONS/REGISTRIES

Discover Endurance Riding aerc.org InfoRequ / e Find ou st more! t

American Endurance Ride Conference

aerc.org 866-271-2372 BOOKS/MUSIC/VIDEO Tall in the Saddle, a powerful and moving story about a determined young girl and her equally spirited horse. Buy it today from Amazon.com or Barnes & Noble.com

Southern Illinois horse properties, located adjacent to and near the beautiful Shawnee National Forest. Midwest Real Estate - Larry Woodney (618) 658-2006 and (618) 9672106, www.MidwestReaIEstate.com Tired of trailering? Properties with trails, $11,000.

Jill Houston, (931) 879-7911, Riders Realty, LLC. jillhouston@hotmail.com

SUPPLIES

CLINICS/ EDUCATION/ SCHOOLS

TRAVEL/TOURS/VACATION Double Rafter Cattle Drive. 115 years of family tradition.

Week-long, 50-mile trip. Compared to us City Slickers is a pony ride. See us at: www.doublerafter.com (800) 704-9268.

Classified Rates Start as low as $3.75 per word (10 word minimum)

Perfect for selling:

BEST PROGRAM in the industry! GUARANTEED MONEY BACK. Financing. MNHorseTrainingAcademy.com.

(320) 272-4199

Apparel & Accessories Saddles & Tack Books & Video Real Estate Barn & Stable Equipment and much more!

Study horse courses at home. Earn grades and Certificates. www. NewHorizonsEquine.com

EVENTS

Reach Over 350,000 Avid Horse&Rider Readers Monthly!

NFR and PBR Rodeo, Las Vegas. www.NFR-Rodeo.com or (888) NFR-RODEO, (888) 637-7633 and www.PBRTickets. com. A+ rated member of Better Business Bureau (BBB).

HORSE CAMPS

Don Vinson Monument Valley Trail Rides, Call (805) 7045778 or www.monumentvalleytrailrides.com

TACK/SADDLES/LEATHER GOODS

Book Your Ads Today at http://bit.ly/HorseRiderads

Shawnee National Forest Hayes Canyon Campground & Cabins As featured on RFD-TV’s Best of America by Horseback…

www.HayesCanyon.com 618-672-4751

(760) 546-1192 hr@aimclassifieds.com

The

The

Collector:

Collection:

Bob Avila Temecula, California

“Trophies and bronzes come and go, trophy saddles wear out, and prize money gets spent,” Avila quips.

“But trophy buckles are something you can wear and enjoy for a lifetime.”

72 / HorseandRider.com

Avila earned his first buckle, middle top, at age 5 and remembers the milestone like it was yesterday. “Every win is fun,” he says, “but you always remember your first.”

Shown here are five

of his prized NRCHA buckles—three Snaffle Bit Futurity and two World’s Greatest Horseman— one NRHA Futurity buckle, and one AQHA Superhorse buckle.

“I have my favorites,”

he shares. For dressier occasions, he wears his 2003 Snaffle Bit Futurity buckle won with one of his favorite horses, Chics Magic Potion.

He chooses one of the others shown here for everyday wear.

PHOTO BY MARC LAXINETA, DVM

My Collection

SHARE YOUR COLLECTION! Send a high-resolution photo of your favorite Western items to HorseandRider@aimmedia.com.

Cashel Trail Saddle Collection Exclusively made for Cashel® by Martin Saddlery®, Cashel’s saddles are built to provide comfort and security for horse and rider. Designed around Martin’s Axis True Fit Saddle Tree, we go out of our way to make sure we offer horsemen the utmost in fit, function and value in a trail saddle.

No matter what you need, we have the right saddle for you.

cashelcompany.com

Introducing

Platinum Performance GI ®

Equine Wellness & Performance Formula + Digestive Care THE HEALTH OF THE EQUINE GUT is correlated to gastrointestinal (GI) function, metabolism, immunity and more. This is why we have been hard at work researching, formulating, testing and conducting trials with Platinum Performance® GI. This gastrointestinal-focused approach to total horse health supports wellness and is recommended for horses in training or competition as well as senior horses. Platinum Performance® GI can help maintain health while traveling, during antibiotic or NSAID therapy and for horses that have digestive health concerns or difficulty maintaining weight.

OVERALL WELLNESS

DIGESTION

IMMUNITY

This veterinary-developed formula provides omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, vitamins and trace minerals, along with Bio-Sponge®, prebiotics, probiotics and glutamine for GI support.

Prebiotics nourish the “good” bacteria in the gut and support the digestion of fiber, while probiotics are important for absorption of nutrients.

An estimated 70-80% of the immune system resides in the gut. Nourishing the beneficial bacteria can help support a healthy gut barrier and microflora balance.

To find the right Platinum Performance® solution

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website, or speak with your equine veterinarian.