BC Equine Lifestyles Spring/Summer 2024

BC’S EQUINE LIFESTYLE

Spring/Summer 2024

is published bi-annually by Horse Council BC

27336 Fraser Hwy, Aldergrove BC, V4W 3N5

T: 604-856-4304 | F: 604-856-4302 Toll Free: 1-800-345-8055 www.hcbc.ca

Horse Council BC is a membershipdriven not-for-profit association representing the interests of the equine industry in all sectors throughout British Columbia

Horse Council BC represents the equine industry in agriculture, industry, sport, and recreation through education, grant funding, club support, government advocating, liability insurance, and participant programs

HCBC BOARD CHAIR’S MESSAGE

By Karen Swantje HCBC Board Chair

A SHORT MESSAGE FROM THE HCBC BOARD CHAIR, KAREN SWANTJE, TO OUR MEMBERSHIP FOR THIS SPRING/SUMMER.

After a colder than usual winter and a colder than usual spring, the sun is finally starting to come out in many parts of the province and many activities are starting to resume. Despite the warmer weather being a little slow to arrive this year,

HCBC has been busier than ever. We presented as the lead sponsor for the first annual CanAm Equine Expo, that saw over 5,000 people travel to Chilliwack for the event

In addition, staff are busy preparing for the Provincial Summer Games (being held in Maple Ridge) and the 55+ Games (being held in Salmon Arm)

BC’s dryer than usual winter should have everyone preparing for a busy fire season, while we are hoping for the best, it is in everyone ’ s best interest to be prepared For those that were able to travel to the CanAm show, they were able to see one of the Livestock Emergency Evacuation Trailers on display

The eventual goal is to have an inventory of these trailers throughout the province with teams of trained and certified volunteers to support them

I’d like to thank the staff for all their work over the past number of months, dealing with burst pipes in the HCBC office building, launching a refresh to our branding, processing over 20,000 membership renewals, and all of the other regular programming work to get things ready for the spring season. Wishing everyone a happy and productive summer!

Karen Swantje

2023 FALL MEMBERSHIP SURVEY SUMMARY

ACERA: INCLUDED AND OPTIONAL INSURANCES

As we enter the second quarter of the year, spring is in the air and with it the warmer weather likely means we are spending more time interacting with our horses As a result of this increased exposure, now is a good time to remind you of the coverages that are available to you as a member in good standing of Horse Council BC The following insurance coverages are automatically included:

a) Personal Liability insurance - $5,000,000

$5,000,000 of PERSONAL LIABILITY insurance that WILL protect YOU, THE MEMBER if YOU, THE MEMBER are held legally liable for PROPERTY DAMAGE OR BODILY INJURY caused TO A THIRD PARTY This insurance does not cover commercial use of a horse

b) Basic Accident, Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) -$40,000 (Principal Sum)

$40,000, Accident, Death or Dismemberment coverage if YOU, THE MEMBER suffer a catastrophic and permanent injury (or death) related to an incident where horses are involved This coverage is in force 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and covers the member anywhere in the world Please note: This coverage excludes benefits for fracture/dental injuries

As you are aware, there are many options available for purchase through your HCBC membership:

“Emergency Equine Life Saving Surgery” –– this policy covers Emergency Life Saving Surgery necessitated by accident or sickness, including colic surgery and fracture surgery, to a maximum limit of $2,500 for expenses incurred ($250 deductible) Please note: This is NOT a life insurance policy; NO DEATH BENEFIT is payable under this policy This policy is restricted to one claim per year and must be purchased by the member who is the owner of the horse(s).

“Enhanced Accidental Death & Dismemberment” – In addition to your ‘included’ $40,000 Principal Sum you can purchase an additional $75,000 coverage that includes limited benefits for Fracture and Dental injuries arising from equine related activities – under the age of 75

“Emergency Stabling Expense” – this policy provides coverage for increased expense incurred to stable the insured horse(s) at another premises due to the perils of fire, windstorm, collapse or disease which makes the usable stabling temporarily unsafe or unusable The maximum limit is $500 per month extra expense for any one insured horse for a maximum of four months, up to a maximum of $5,000 ($500 deductible) that may be applied regardless of the number of horses owned

"Members Named Perils" insurance covering death of an owned horse resulting from fire, lightning or collision/overturn of a conveyance in which a horse was being transported, attack by a dog or wild anima and more (no sickness) Refer to the policy wording for a full listing This insures up to a maximum of $10,000 that may be applied regardless of the number of horses owned Losses are restricted to one claim per year

“Members Tack Insurance”---- $10,000 any one occurrence / $10,000 any one membership per policy period; $500 deductible.

“Weekly Accident Indemnity Insurance” this policy provides income replacement in the event you are unable to work due to an accident Coverage is up to a maximum of $500 per week to a maximum of 26 weeks A fully completed Application is required

HCBC continues to work with our insurance partners at Acera Insurance so that a broad range of insurance products and risk management services are designed with you in mind Have questions about insurance? Call Acera Insurance at 1-800-670-1877

MEMBER

FEATURE: RUTH MOORE

Ruth Moore was a dearly loved and prominent member of the equestrian community who we sadly lost in January For this issue, we would like to dedicate our member feature to Ruth, to celebrate the wonderful life she led

Ruth with horse, Ezurah

Ruth on horse, Q

We all know the moment that we became enamored with horses, and for Ruth, it was as a young girl in England where she discovered that the boarding school she attended had an equestrian program A beautiful pony called Mr Cheeky captured her heart, and they became inseparable, him teaching her the foundations of the sport Horse riding was everything to her, riding whenever she could during her school terms and free time This eventually culminated in a decision to pursue horse riding as a career, and she took her BHSAI at the Yorkshire Riding Centre in her late teens

In 1975, Ruth and her husband, Barry, took the leap and immigrated to Canada and settled in the Lavington area in 1980 In 2000, Ruth began to teach at the Vernon Pony Club, and would continue there for over 20 years She greatly believed in the usefulness of the Pony Club, noting that it taught riders discipline and the importance of caring for horses She was fully dedicated to the Pony Club, holding positions as Assistant District Commissioner, District Commissioner, and Test Representative Organizer. Notably, in November 2023, she was awarded the 25-year Volunteer Award and Silver Pin from the Canadian Pony Club for the years of her life that she dedicated to the organization Not only was Ruth involved with the Pony Club, but she had also held these positions on the board of the Vernon District Riding Club: Director, Vice President, and President The riding club was significant to her as she saw it as an important community facility with the only requirement being membership

She will always be remembered by those who knew her, someone who was such a driving force in the equestrian community Ruth left a mark on the horse-riding world and that is something we are grateful for, here at Horse Council BC Ruth was described by her peers as someone who exemplified 'the spirit of a true horsewoman’ Today we take a moment to recognize, and celebrate, the wonderful life of Ruth Moore and acknowledge just how much she meant to those who knew her. A true gift to the equestrian world who will be sorely missed.

SHE WILL ALWAYS BE REMEMBERED BY THOSE WHO KNEW HER, SOMEONE WHO WAS SUCH A DRIVING FORCE IN THE EQUESTRIAN COMMUNITY. RUTH LEFT A MARK ON THE HORSE-RIDING WORLD AND THAT IS SOMETHING WE ARE GRATEFUL FOR.

CLUB FEATURE: FRASER VALLEY HOUNDS

OUR CLUB FEATURE FOR THIS ISSUE IS A FANTASTIC, WELCOMING CLUB THAT ENCOURAGES A SENSE OF COMMUNITY AND TRADITION IN THE SPORT OF HORSE RIDING.

Community is a big driving force in the equestrian space, and a reason that many people continue to keep up with the sport throughout their life. One such discipline that exemplifies the spirit of community is the Fraser Valley Hounds, a small, but mighty, club that keeps traditional elements of horseback riding alive. The club was originally formed in 1968 and continues today with their busy season running from October through to April

Whilst some of the traditions are still kept alive by holding a ‘drag hunt’ (the hounds following an artificial scent on a pre-determined trail) the Fraser Valley Hounds make sure that animal welfare is of paramount importance No foxes are hunted, or endangered The club highlights that there are many benefits to this way of riding, ‘It’s ideal for conditioning, builds confidence and skills in a way that can’t be achieved in a ring ’

Hunts are divided into groups named ‘fields’ which differ in speed level for the comfort of the rider Newcomers, or riders with green/inexperienced horses don’t have to partake in jumping, or galloping, and can start with what is referred to as ‘hill-topping’ field with a Field-master where they can travel at the back, away from the hounds Second-field, is where the rider may progress to a trot/canter pace Higher-level riders can tackle both manmade, and natural, jumps in the first field following directly behind the hounds The morning ends with a traditional hunt breakfast where everyone can get the opportunity to socialize with one another The club states that, ‘the horsemanship, hound handling, camaraderie, and excitement of the sport are wonderfully preserved ’

The sport is very welcoming to newcomers, with riders from both English and Western backgrounds encouraged to join, with horses of any breed. Everyone is encouraged to go at their own pace, socialize, and enjoy the weekly hunts that run most Saturdays during their active season. This club is more than just an opportunity to socialize, they also strive to give back to the community by holding an annual Charity Trail Ride with Riding for Developing Abilities as their chosen charity Over the past four years, they have raised upwards of $20,000 in donations The FVH Board of Governors have stressed their belief in the importance of community and to provide all equestrians with the ability to enjoy the sport of horse riding

The Fraser Valley Hounds are a dedicated, and passionate, organization that strive to have an environment that is welcoming to all who wish to take part it the sport. So, to anyone who resides in the Fraser Valley area, this may be a club you want to check out!

EQUESTRIAN CANADA: EQUINE WELFARE PRINCIPLES

“THE WELFARE OF HORSES IS ULTIMATELY DEPENDENT ON HUMAN BEHAVIOUR.”

Recently the Equestrian Canada Rider/Driver level materials were updated It’s a change brought about from an increasing public view point about the ethical principles of horse care.

Equestrian Canada (EC) is committed to ensuring all its published materials present a high national standard for horse welfare. EC acknowledges the importance of providing accurate and up-to-date information in alignment with current science and best practices In 2023, EC began an ongoing process of rebuilding the Learn to Ride and Drive and Stable Management materials, including manuals, evaluations, and rubrics

The purpose of this addendum is to address outdated content in the currently circulating Learn to Ride/Drive and Stable Management materials while new materials are being developed

Horse Turnout: Whisker Trimming, Ear Hair Trimming

Trimming whiskers and ear hair for aesthetic purposes has been common practice in many equestrian sports Effective July 1, 2021, the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) banned whisker trimming on the international field of play The rule change was supported by a memo from the FEI’s veterinary committee in 2020 Some National Sport Organizations (NSOs) in Europe have also banned whisker and ear hair trimming in their jurisdictions While these practices are still permitted by EC, they are not recommended due to their negative impact on the horse’s sensory abilities and welfare

These hairs are likely to have a role in spatial awareness and environmental navigation for horses, especially as horses have blind spots directly in front of their foreheads and below their noses Some Canadian provinces have passed legislation that restricts or prohibits these practices This addendum will amend the current Learn to Ride/Drive evaluation criteria

Mane Pulling

Traditional mane pulling methods may cause unnecessary stress for horses. Given the limited research available on this topic, EC will remove the requirement to pull manes as part of the Learn to Ride/Drive program. Traditional mane pulling techniques are still permitted by EC, but participants/horse owners are welcome to employ alternative methods and tools such as thinning blades or scissors if preferred in the Learn to Ride/Drive evaluations

EC has created an addendum reflecting these changes that are added to the existing Rider/Driver manuals Users can also download the document from the HCBC website, on the Equestrian Canada Rider/Driver Program

Ongoing changes

Over the next year, the Equestrian Canada Learn to Ride/Drive programs will be revised As changes to the program are announced and implemented, Coaches and Instructors will be advised of the new materials which will include new testing forms, rubrics and handbooks The information will be posted on the HCBC website and updated as required.

Article courtesy of Equestrian Canada.

VULNERABLE ROAD USER LEGISLATION

THERE HAS BEEN NEW VULNERABLE ROAD USER

LEGISLATION INTRODUCED, COMING INTO EFFECT JUNE 3RD 2024

Summer riding is right around the corner and some of us will be riding on the roadways or crossing the road when necessary. For most of us the goal isn’t to ride on the road but necessary for us to get to a community riding arena or a trail head The government of BC has been in the process of updating the Motor Vehicle Act and we are happy to see that they are putting an emphasis on more protection for vulnerable road users Horses were included in the definition of a vulnerable road user as a pedestrian or person on an animal or animal-driven vehicle in conjunction with other vulnerable road users The new legislation also says that drivers must:

Always take proper precautions around vulnerable road users on a public road

Keep a safe distance when passing vulnerable road users – with the following minimum passing distances

Highways 50 km/h or less: 1 m

Highways 51 km/h or over: 1.5 m

When approaching a vulnerable road user, it is necessary to assess your speed and the speed of the vulnerable road user and slow down if the weather, road, and/ or traffic conditions are unfavorable If you are unable to pass safely you must slow down, stay back and give space to the vulnerable road user Crossing over a single or double line when safe to do so is appropriate to give vulnerable roads users as much space as possible when passing It is important to signal before crossing the line to alert others that you will be passing

If vehicles do not follow the new passing distances police officers are able to ticket drivers for their violation Minimum passing distances are measured by the furthest protruding part of a vulnerable user on their

equipment (ie. Handlebar).

The new laws will go into effect on June 3, 2024 and an education campaign will be released from the province to bring awareness to the public

UPCOMING COMPETITIONS & EVENTS

GET READY FOR A SUMMER FILLED WITH FUN COMPETITIONS AND EVENTS WITH US HERE AT HORSE COUNCIL BC!

BC Summer Games 2024!

BC’s bi-annual event, BC Summer Games is coming to you this summer in Maple Ridge! This year ’ s event will take place July 18th – 21st To prepare for the games, Horse Council BC held a ‘Game Ready Development Camp’ in Prince George that saw great success It was wonderful to see folks showing up, with competitive spirit in spades, ready to prepare for the games with knowledgeable coaches to guide them!

Whether you plan to compete, coach, or volunteer, it is sure to be a fun weekend Make sure to keep up to date

BC 55+ Games

Get ready for the BC 55+ Games this year in Salmon Arm, 10th – 14th September There is still time to register for the 2024 Games, with registration officially closing on June 30th A detailed schedule will be released closer to the event date itself, but the disciplines have been finalized

They include: -Dressage -Western Dressage

CAN-AM ALL BREEDS EQUINE EXPO 2024

THIS YEAR, WE ATTENDED THE CAN-AM ALL BREEDS EQUINE EXPO AND HAD AN AMAZING TIME RUNNING OUR BOOTH AND MEETING OUR MEMBERSHIP INPERSON!

For those who are unfamiliar, Can-Am All Breeds Expo is an equine event where equestrians can b amazing vendors and attend interesting events a clinics for a whole weekend! Horse Council BC pa with the event and attended with a fun booth whi included demonstrations from the local Fire Depa on emergency situations regarding horses, new b merchandise, free giveaways, and much more!

We would like to say a big thank you to everyone showed up at Chilliwack Heritage Park this year fo event. and a special thank you to those who came to say hello to us at the booth. As a member-focu organization, we love the times where we can int with our membership in-person, get a chance to s hello, and ask what we can be doing for you

ee everyone in the equestrian community come ether for the weekend was a joy and we hope to see once again, at future events

of our staff members were able to showcase our kie Riders program in scheduled demonstrations ughout the weekend The program is run by our reation Coordinator, who describes Rookie Riders as, n, dynamic and interactive program for children to n about horses and fundamental physical literacy s ” For more information on the Rookie Riders gram itself, please visit our website at www hcbc ca, ontact our Recreation Coordinator at eation@hcbc ca

WORKING ALONE OR IN ISOLATION

BY EMILY KERR

Whether you ’ re a seasoned farm worker, a recreational rider, or participate in equestrian sports, understanding the risks and implementing safety measures is paramount As a rider myself, I will delve into the nuances of working alone or in isolation in the equine world from a safety perspective

Defining Working Alone or in Isolation

As defined by WorkSafeBC’s Occupational Health and Safety Regulation 4.20.1, working alone or in isolation applies to circumstances where immediate assistance would not be readily available in case of an emergency or injury Some of the hazards of working alone in the equine industry include motor vehicle accidents when driving alone on an isolated road, falling when riding alone on a secluded trail, and sprains and strains when lifting heavy objects alone

The Risks

1. Emergency Response Delays

When you ’ re the sole caretaker of horses, the unexpected can strike at any moment A horse colicking, a rider thrown from the saddle, or a barn fire all demand swift action Yet, in remote locations or during odd hours, summoning help may take precious minutes The isolation that grants serenity also amplifies vulnerability.

2. Physical Hazards

Equine work involves heavy lifting, unpredictable animals, and exposure to the elements. A lone worker may be wrestling with hay bales, leading a spirited horse, or mending a fence in solitude Without a colleague to share the load, strains, sprains, and accidents become more likely

3. Psychological Impact

Isolation can weigh heavily on mental well-being The absence of camaraderie, the silence broken only by hoofbeats, and the lack of immediate feedback all contribute to feelings of loneliness and stress For those who thrive on social interaction, the solitude of the stable can be isolating indeed

Mitigating the Risks

1.Docmented Check-In Procedures

Check-in procedures for the workers must be established and modified as necessary The higher the risk of the activity the shorter the determined interval of the time between checks Many of the tasks performed in the equine world will likely fall into the moderate/high-risk category Involving animals always introduces an uncontrolled variable Conduct a risk assessment to determine the level of risk associated with your work, from there you can establish an appropriate check-in interval. Ensure that you create a plan where you have a reliable pre-determined check-in party. The Occupational Health and Safety Regulation requires that check-in procedures be verified AgSafeBC has created various resources to document your check-in procedures, all of which are available free of charge on our website

2. Robust Communication Systems

Invest in reliable communication tools Cell phones, twoway radios, or spot locators can bridge the gap between isolation and assistance There are some innovative online tools and applications, such as Aware 360, that can be used to send text message reminders and phone calls to employees to remind them to check in

3 Emergency Preparedness

Know your escape routes, fire extinguisher locations, and first aid supplies Conduct regular drills to hone your response skills Consider enrolling in first aid courses tailored for equine professionals

4. Mental Resilience

Combat isolation by maintaining connections. Attend industry events, join online forums, and network with fellow horse enthusiasts. Share experiences, seek advice, and remind yourself that you ’ re part of a vibrant community

If you require assistance conducting risk assessments, or creating work-alone plans specific to your farm, please get in touch with us The AgSafeBC website has free resources available, and there are representatives across the province who are passionate about helping everyone get home safely each day

Develop a fire safety plan and post emergency evacuation procedures in high visibility areas Include a notice listing the number and location of all animals in the barn. Include:

· - location of fire extinguishers,

· - emergency services non-emergency phone numbers

· - emergency veterinary number,

· - emergency contacts (personal)

Request an inspection by your Fire Department They can provide fire safety information, identify hazards, and suggest ways to reduce risk

Your address should be clearly visible for emergency responders Your farm name should be prominently displayed at the farm’s entrance and directions to

your farm should be posted in a conspicuous place so emergency responders can be given clear instructions.

Electrical problems are the number one cause of barn fires. Improper wiring, unprotected wiring, open electrical boxes, portable heaters, are just a few examples of typical points of origin determined in barn fire investigations Wiring should be a top priority when building and repairing barns All wiring should be done to code by a qualified professional Do not store appliances, machines, or gas-powered tools in the barn Extension cords, portable heaters, and all appliances (coffee machines, kettles, etc ) should be unplugged immediately after use

Create a defensible space around the barn, clear of brush, woodpiles, etc This is an area that can be kept safe from damage or harm

Clear the area to and around your water source

Post “No Smoking” signs to prohibit cigarettes, matches, lighters, and similar items in your barn and around your property and strictly enforce your no smoking policy

Every barn should have at least two five-pound fire extinguishers, one at each end of the barn Larger barns may require several extinguishers on each level (i e on the main floor and the loft) You should not have to travel more than 75ft to reach one All fire extinguishers should have a minimum rating of 2A10BC and all barn employees and boarders should be trained how to use them.

Have your fire extinguishers serviced regularly. Keep water hoses at the ready.

Consider installing a sprinkler system.

Install heat or smoke detectors. Program them to set off an alarm inside and outside the barn, as well as in your house Some can be programmed with a monitoring agency

Consider installing wired-in emergency light units to come on in the event of a power failure These are small rechargeable battery packs that last about 20 to 30 minutes Rechargeable flashlights that plug in and come on automatically if power goes out in the barn are a less costly alternative

Hang halters and name plates on the appropriate stall doors Keep extra halters and lead ropes near the exits

Call the fire department before you attempt to put out any fire

In case of fire, lead each horse out of the barn to safety Do not herd them out or they may return to their stall and will create more of a hazard by running in panic

Do some emergency preparedness training with your horses to get them used to being handled during an evacuation Wear a large coat and hat with a bulky backpack to resemble a firefighter wearing breathing apparatus Get your horses accustomed to being approached at night with a flashlight and to being led while blindfolded

Train them to lead with just a rope around their neck

For more fire safety resources and disaster preparedness plans, please visit us online at: www.hcbc.ca

There are free online Emergency Preparedness Modules offer solid pragmatic directions to help you prepare BEFORE disaster strikes These video presentations are for owners, barn managers, rescue facilities and volunteers and anyone else who may be part of the response process during a disaster

These resources can be found on our website by going to Equine Welfare and clicking ‘Emergency Planning Resources’ in the drop-down menu

Thank you for choosing to read our Spring/Summer 2024 issue of our BC Equine Lifestyles magazine. We will see you in the next issue in Autumn/Winter.