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Products and services may not be available in all states and eligibility requirements will apply. Personal and commercial lines insurance is issued by American National Property And Casualty Company (ANPAC®), its subsidiaries or a liates, including American National General Insurance Company, Paci c Property And Casualty Company (California), American National Lloyds Insurance Company (Texas), American National County Mutual Insurance Company (serviced by ANPAC®-Texas), and ANPAC® Louisiana Insurance Company (Louisiana). American National Property And Casualty Company is a subsidiary of American National Insurance Company. Life insurance and annuity products are issued by American National Insurance Galveston, Texas. August 2016Company, HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 3 AN-49f (0113)
FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK
Our Heroes!
“My heroes are those who risk their lives every day to protect our world and make it a better place – police, firefighters and members of our armed forces.” – Sidney Sheldon I
I ran across the above quote, and with all that has been going By: Vicki Long on in these turbulent times, I wanted to honor the brave men and women who serve in our local police forces across the country, as well as our “four legged officers.” Our home offices are in Houston, and we have one of the finest mounted patrol units in the country. We wanted showcase just how special they are in the way they care for and train the horses that are selected to serve. If you live in or visit the Houston area, you can take your children to visit the stables, and even bring a carrot or two to treat the horses. For information on visiting go to: houstontx.gov/police/mounted/patrol.htm Perhaps you would like to sponsor one of the horses. By becoming a sponsor you can: • Name the horse. This name will be displayed on the saddle pad worn on patrol duty, • On the horse’s stall, have a plaque stating “Proudly Sponsored By (company or organization logo)” • Recognition on the Police Foundation and Mounted Patrol web pages that includes the company or organization’s logo. • HPD will provide studio quality photos of the horse, horse and assigned officer, and horse and sponsor-designated personnel for display at the sponsor’s place of business. For more information visit: houstonpolicefoundation.org/funding/ mounted. Of course you can also show them your appreciation by making a donation. A few bad apples do not spoil the whole orchard, and our society would be lost without these brave soulsmen, women, and animals that serve their communities with distinction and honor. God bless every one of them and keep them safe!
On the Cover:
Sgt. Greg Sokoloski, member of Houston Mounted Police
4 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE
August 2016
August 2016
Cover Story:
18 Four Hooves Plus a Badge- Jane Maggitt
Lifestyle: 10 Pet Care Feature - Probiotics for Pets - Texas A&M 38 Outdoor Entertaining 40 Summer Trailering - Tom Seay
Columns: 6 Horse Bites 26 Ride-N-Sync™ - Terry Myers 28 On the English Front - Cathy Strobel 30 Tack Talk - Lew Pewterbaugh 42 Cowboy Corner - Jim Hubbard
ADVERTISING OFFICES
• HEADQUARTER OFFICE (281) 447-0772 Phone & (281) 893-1029 Fax Advertising@horsebackmagazine.com
Staff PUBLISHER Vicki Long
EDITOR Steven Long
NATIONAL NEWS EDITOR Carrie Gobernatz
• BRAZOS VALLEY BUREAU Diane Holt (936) 878-2678 Ranch & (713) 408-8114 Cell Dianeh@horsebackmagazine.com
LIFESTYLE EDITOR Margaret Pirtle 832-349-1427 Horsebackmag@gmail.com EVENTS EDITOR Leslie Greco
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Jim Hubbard, Steven Long, Vicki Long, Roni Norquist, Linda Parelli, Lew Pewterbaugh, Cathy Strobel, Cory Johnson, Margaret Pirtle Volume 23, No. 8 Horseback Magazine, P.O. Box 681397, Houston, TX 77268-1397, (281) 447-0772. The entire contents of the magazine are copyrighted August 2016 by Horseback Magazine. All rights reserved. Material in this publication may not be reproduced in any form without the expressed written consent of the publisher. Horseback Magazine assumes no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, photographs and other material unless accompanied by a stamped, self addressed envelope. Horseback Magazine is not responsible for any claims made by advertisers. The views and opinions expressed herein do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher or management. Subscription rate is $25.00 for one year. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Horseback Magazine, P.O. Box 681397, Houston, TX 77268-1397. Fax: (281) 893-1029
Email: vicki@horsebackmagazine.com
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“Horse Bites is compiled from Press Releases sent to Horseback Magazine. Original reporting is done as circumstances warrant. Content is edited for length & style.”
10TH ANNUAL BLUEBONNET HORSE EXPO 2016 marks the 10th year for the Bluebonnet Horse Expo, an annual educational event put on by Bluebonnet Equine Humane Society in Austin. This year’s event will take place on October 22, 2016 from 9AM to 7PM at Travis County Expo Center at 7311 Decker Lane Horse-lovers from across the state of Texas – and beyond – will come together in Austin to learn about horse training and care from some of the finest trainers, veterinarians, and alternative caregivers in Texas. The event is also home of the Bluebonnet Rescue Horse Training Challenge. At the Challenge, professional trainers and non-professional horseman and horsewomen compete over an obstacle course and show off their horses’ skills in a freestyle competition. Before the competition, professional trainers have four months to start BEHS horses under saddle or work through behavioral problems while nonprofessionals work with a horse for four months who was previously trained to ride or work with a horse on the ground. The Challenge horses, as well as other BEHS horses, are available for adoption at the event. The Expo includes a horse/western/ranch-themed art show and sale, silent auction of home décor, jewelry, and clothing that is horse-related, live auction of saddles and other tack, tack sale, and vendor area. Bluebonnet Equine Humane Society is a non- profit organization that helps rescue horses, ponies, and donkeys from negligent and abusive owners. Not only is the event educational, but all funds raised at the event help Bluebonnet Equine Humane Society alleviate the
6 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE
August 2016
suffering of horses throughout Texas. There are still sponsorship and vendor opportunities available, and the organization needs donations of horse equipment and farm/ranch/western themed art-work, jewelry, and home décor for the live auction, art show, silent auction, and sale area. All donations are tax deductible. For more information, visit us http://www.bluebonnethorseexpo.com/ or (888) 542 5163 REBECCA HART PARTICIPATES IN PBS BROADCAST OF “A CAPITOL FOURTH” While many American families were busy grilling and lighting sparklers on July 4, Paralympian Rebecca Hart participated in PBS’s live broadcast “A Capitol Fourth,” to celebrate the 240th birthday of the United States of America. The United States Olympic Committee invited Hart to attend as a tribute to the Olympians and Paralympians who will represent the United States at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. “It was a huge honor to be invited, and to participate and represent the United States Olympic Committee,” Hart explained. “It was an amazing experience and it was very nice to have paralympi-
ans invited. I was thrilled to do it!” Hart spent four days in Washington, D.C., touring the moments, rehearsing for the broadcast and she even was invited to enjoy the view from the Speaker’s Balcony of the Capitol building. PBS interviewed Hart for one of their Facebook Live videos with Sailing Olympian Charlie Buckingham and the group of athletes were honored in a presentation with Scott Hamilton, an Olympic gold medal figure skater and broadcaster. During the live celebration, the season three winner of ‘The Voice,’ Cassadee Pope gave an inspiring performance of her song “I am Invincible” in a tribute to the Olympians and Paralympians. “One of the most amazing aspects of participating in ‘The Capitol Fourth’ was meeting the other athletes,” Hart explained. “It was not only equestrians, but other sports such as judo, swimming, sailing and weightlifting were represented. Hearing their inspirational stories helped me get excited and motivated for the Games. Everyone works so hard to reach their final goal and we all got to share the moment as a great send off.”
HORSES HEALING HEARTS VAULTING PROGRAM INSTILLS TEAMWORK AND SELF-CONFIDENCE IN CHILDREN OF ALCOHOLICS This winter show season, the annual White White West party to benefit Horses Healing Hearts had record suc-
Trainer at Bluebonnet Expo demonstrating everything their Challenge Rescue Horse has learned and overcome. www.horsebackmagazine.com
cess. Maria Bernal, long-time supporter of the organization and coach for its new vaulting team, attended the event with the program’s vaulting students. Bernal proudly watched her students perform their skills on their trusty wooden horse as the crowd cheered them on. Bernal said, “I could see the faces of not only the people that attend our event but the children - they were very motivated and they wanted to show what they have done. What they have achieved. They were very enthusiastic about it.” All proceeds from the party went towards benefiting Horses Healing Hearts, a nonprofit organization that devotes time and volunteers to improving the lives of children, who have been affected by the disease of addiction in their family system, through equine activities. This year, the addition of the vaulting performance brought the children to center stage. “They were the focus and they are normally not,” said Bernal. “They are normally the problem at home and here they were, people were there for them, and they were cheering them on. It was great for their self-esteem.” A nonexistent childhood is the unfortunate reality for many children whose parents suffer from this disease of addiction. A low self-esteem is common and a result of silent suffering and feelings that it is not safe to talk, trust or feel. Before becoming a part of Horses Healing Hearts, Maria Bernal grew up riding in Colombia. She started her competitive career as a show jumper, earning herself national and state titles. Bernal then moved to Ecuador with her family, where her daughter suffered a bad fall while riding. As a result, Bernal was compelled to educate the younger generation about safety and risk management around horses. That’s when she discovered vaulting. “I started a vaulting team, and we participated nationally and internationally,” said Bernal. “Then I moved to Bogota, Colombia and we did it there too with the schools, and we had more than 300 children doing vaulting. When we moved here to Wellington we were the first ones in Florida, me and my husband, giving vaulting lessons.” Bernal’s Florida team competed for a few years before she adjusted the focus of her program to help dressage riders improve their balance. Through her new program, Bernal met Liz Olzsweski, founder of Horses Healing Hearts. Olszewski rode in the program, www.horsebackmagazine.com
and the pair’s friendship grew as they continued to stay in touch. “Liz would call me from time to time asking about children or horses and everything in between,” Bernal explained. “And when I had the time, I started to work with her with Horses Healing Hearts, and I ended up going on Saturdays to give back to the children - working on vaulting on the wooden horse.” She continued, “I started doing this to help in the community, but when Rebecca Hart and Schroeter’s Romani Liz invited me and when I met the kids, I fell in love with them. And I admire Liz succeed. You can see their personalities come out all the time, so if I put on music, because she knows the story of every they’ll start to dance and sing. You see kid and sometimes when you know more about them, it’s hard for you to go them participate and be themselves there.” Bernal has become an influential home and not think about it anymore.” part of Horses Healing Hearts, and con Bernal now trains the children tinues changing the lives of the children every single Saturday, working with involved. The addition of the vaulting them to improve their skills. A typical program gives the children new outlets to lesson will begin with stretching and learn and grow. Bernal admires Liz Ola discussion of what that rest of the szewski’s vision for the program and the lesson will entail. They quickly get to efforts of all of the volunteers that work work, bouncing on their trampoline tirelessly day-in and day-out. or learning new skills on the wooden “I think that it’s showing the chilhorse. dren that they are important, they matter Bernal said, “What is cool and they don’t have to fix every mistake about vaulting is that the children that their parents have made,” Bernal said need to work together if they want to Horsebites- Con’t. on pg.34
Vaulting team demonstration at the White, White West Party, benefiting Horses Healing Hearts. August 2016 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE
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吀䄀夀䰀伀刀 䨀䄀䌀伀䈀 吀䔀䄀䴀 一唀吀刀䔀一䄀 圀一䘀刀 儀唀䄀䰀䤀䘀䤀䔀刀 圀一䘀刀 儀唀䄀䰀䤀䘀䤀䔀刀 ㈀ ㌀ ☀ ㈀ 㔀 䄀爀攀渀愀 刀攀挀漀爀搀 䠀漀氀搀攀爀 匀椀渀挀攀 ㈀ ㌀
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ⴀ吀愀礀氀漀爀 䨀愀挀漀戀
一甀琀爀攀渀愀 匀瀀漀渀猀漀爀 ☀ 倀爀漀昀攀猀猀椀漀渀愀氀 䈀愀爀爀攀氀 刀愀挀攀爀
ᴠ
䠀䤀䜀䠀 倀䔀刀䘀伀刀䴀䄀一䌀䔀 一唀吀刀䤀吀䤀伀一⸀ 䌀䠀䄀䴀倀䤀伀一匀䠀䤀倀�䌀䄀䰀䤀�䔀刀 刀䔀匀唀䰀吀匀⸀ 渀甀琀爀攀渀愀眀漀爀氀搀⸀挀漀洀 8 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE
꤀㈀ 㔀 䌀愀爀最椀氀氀Ⰰ 䤀渀挀⸀ 䄀氀氀 刀椀最栀琀猀 刀攀猀攀爀瘀攀搀⸀
August 2016
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Pet Care...
P
robiotics, or “good bacteria,” can be defined as living microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, can offer multiple health benefits to the host. Though they have been gaining popularity amongst humans in the past decade, the possibility of similar probiotic supplements for your pets’ health is on the rise. “Essentially, we are trying to give live bacteria in supplement form that have beneficial properties to an animal in order to improve their digestive health,” said Dr. Jan Suchodolski, clinical associate professor at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences. “It is imperative that bacteria are alive once they reach the gut and that they are also delivered in high amounts. That’s why a highquality product is needed.” In order to fully understand how probiotics work, it’s important to
10 2016 10 HHORSEBACK ORSEBACKM MAGAZINE AGAZINE August July 2016
Probiotics for Pets know that the beneficial effects of probiotics are bacterial strain specific, meaning every bacterial strain has a potentially different effect. Some probiotic strains, for instance, stimulate the immune system, while other strains produce anti-inflammatory biomolecules or antimicrobial molecules to combat pathogens. “This is an area of active ongoing research, as all probiotic strains have to be evaluated for their mechanism, and only once the mechanism is identified can we identify which probiotic strain should be given in which disease,” said Dr. Suchodolski. There are several studies proving that specific probiotic strands are useful for specific diseases, and Dr. Suchodolski explains that the strongest of this data is available for preventing stress diarrhea in pets. However, a few selected products have also been shown to have anti-
inflammatory properties and may be useful in chronic Gastrointestinal (GI) diseases. “Dogs or cats that receive probiotics have a lower incidence of diarrhea compared to animals not receiving it,” Dr. Suchodolski said. “The best effects are observed when probiotics are given in advance in anticipation of stressful events, for example boarding flights, long car rides, etc.” With any new supplemental discoveries come the fear of negative complications. Generally, the possible risk of side effects in probiotics is very low. “Only very few reports have been described in literature,” Dr. Suchodolski said. “However, very sick patients who are immunocompromised are at some risk, and probiotic products should be avoided in those situations.” The most important thing to remember when considering the possibility of probiotics is that
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The ALPHA
Pet Talk is a service of the College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University. Stories can be viewed online at vetmed.tamu.edu/pet-talk.
they are not all created equally, and results from one product cannot be extrapolated to other products. “There is much excitement about the potential of using bacteria as therapeutics, but this area is very complex and more research is needed to understand the complexities of this combined bacterial and host ecosystem,” said Dr. Suchodolski. “There are many products on the market that were produced initially without fully understanding the mechanism behind bacterial-host interactions, and it is currently recommended to only use products that have shown results in clinical studies.” The possibility of using probiotics as disease prevention and health aides in both humans and our pets is not far off. Though further research is still being conducted in order to reap their full benefits, having a healthier, happier pet is something to look forward to.
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11
USE SHEDS TO PROVIDE PROTECTION FROM THE ELEMENTS
by: Deer Creek Structures
As
a horse owner, no matter where you’re working, it is always important that you do what you can to protect yourself and your horse. If you’re looking for a way to do just that, then a few portable run-in sheds from Deer Creek Structures would be a great investment for you. Our sheds are perfect for keeping you and your horse out of the elements. Whether as a convenient resting place located on your property or along a trail or a structure on the far side of a riding pasture or field, adding sheds gives you the option of numerous places to escape from the sun and elements when you need to. If it is a hot, sunny day, you and your horse can walk into the shade of a conveniently situated shed and relax for a few minutes. While in there, you can both cool down and enjoy a water break during your trek along the trail or as a reprieve during your training runs. Also, by having more than one shed and using them at dif-
ferent places on your property, you can set up designated rest spots throughout your training fields or along your trails to make sure you take enough breaks and don’t overwork yourselves. The weather can be unpredictable sometimes, and a nice sunny day can quickly turn to random rain showers and thunderstorms. If you and your horse are out working on your property and this happens, you could go to your nearest shed and wait for the shower to pass. It’s not fun working with wet clothes and the shed will give you shelter while the showers pass. Once the weather has stopped, you will still be dry and can get back to riding comfortably.
The portable run-in sheds from Deer Creek Structures come in three different sizes – 8 feet, 10 feet and 12 feet – allowing you to pick the right sheds for your property depending on how big your horse is and how much room you need. If you’re interested in adding some portable run-in sheds to your property, let Deer Creek Structures help you find the right ones. Located in Lott, Texas, we also offer quality horse shelters and barns that give your horse a place to sleep at night. For more information on our structures, call us today at 254-546-2276!
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Our vest is made with a unique, three-layer fabric that enables riders and horses exchange heat for cooling when activated with water. Available in Various Rider Sizes! • S, M, L, XL Available in 4 Equine Sizes! • Average Horse Size • Pony Size • Miniature Horse • Draft Horse
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Meet the Company
Woodland Creek Furniture
W
oodland Creek started with an idea to make unique rustic furniture from exotic woods. During the summer of 1997 Robert Evina, Woodland Creek’s founder, traveled extensively through remote villages in Russia, Ukrainia, Romania, and Hungary. During his travels he came across beautiful exotic woods. Having watched his uncles in Alaska craft log homes and rustic furniture, he knew the exotic woods would make some very interesting rustic furniture. The Woods: Reclaimed Wood + Sustainable Wood = Eco Friendly Furniture! Robert showed his designs and met clients at shows across the country. During these shows Robert met other rustic furniture builders from different parts of the United States. Friendships were made and wood was traded. The wood is primarily standing dead or reclaimed wood from farmers’ ranches or old barns. Eco Friendly Furniture has recently become very popular. Woodland Creek has been using reclaimed wood for over ten years – long before reclaimed furniture became popular. Woodland Creek now imports reclaimed wood from Eastern Europe, Mexico, Indonesia, China, California, Utah, and Colorado. When you combine a wood from Eastern Europe with a wood from California or Michigan, you have a look unlike any other and rustic furniture like any other. Our furniture designs have evolved over time. The line between rustic furniture and contemporary furniture is being blurred. Even those who like contemporary furniture appreciate the organic feel of real wood. You get a very unique look by combining thick organic natural slabs with modern bases. Woodland Creek has a new web
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August 2016
Life size horse made from driftwood by Woodland Creek Furniture
Offering an artisan approach to furniture making. With the rise of globalization, most local furniture manufacturing jobs in the past 50 years were sent overseas for the nearly non-existent environmental laws and inexpensive labor. Robert Evina, President of Woodland Creek Furniture, ha been quietly working to bring some of has those jobs back home.
THE WOODS: Reclaimed Wood + Sustainable Wood = Eco Friendly Furniture
Every piece manufactured is beautifully crafted from reclaimed woods or responsibly harvested materials.
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Set your sites on getting more done. Want a skid steer that's more productive? Get a John Deere. Optimal weight distribution, low center of gravity, high ground clearance, and long wheelbase deliver superior stability. But getting there is only half the battle. These skid steers also excel at putting material in its place. Their patented vertical-lift boom rises to the occasion, delivering exceptional lift height and reach. So you can do more, with less effort.
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page called Contemporary Rustic Furniture. Our contemporary rustic furniture will work in a modern or urban setting or fitting in a timber frame or log home where the owners want to soften the rustic side. It is Woodland Creek’s goal to offer the highest quality, most unique rustic furniture in the country with superior customer service. The Artisans Woodland Creek is very fortunate to have some of the best rustic furniture crafters in the country designing and building custom rustic furniture. Many have won awards. Some started with no skills as general laborers and because of their natural talents have evolved into incredible rustic furniture artisans. In addition to the rustic furniture builders, Woodland Creek also has its own woodcarver and metal artisan. If our clients can dream it, Woodland Creek can custom build it. Woodland Creek is one of only a few stores in the country www.horsebackmagazine.com
where the client can visit the showroom for inspiration and then meet with the artisans to discuss your project. Our artisans will show you the different woods, and you are welcome to get involved in the project. Woodland Creek’s staff invites you to visit Woodland Creek and see for yourself why many have called Woodland Creek the most unique store in the country. Furniture made by Woodland Creek is proudly Made in America! Our other lines of furniture are made by trusted and experienced Craftsman from around the world. Why would someone drive several hours or fly in from a neighboring state to visit Woodland Creek Furniture? The answer is simple – “Woodland Creek offers the largest selection of artisan crafted rustic, natural, cottage and cabin furniture in the country.” Woodland Creek is your one stop shopping resource. When you visit, you are welcome to walk through our showrooms, workshops and
warehouse – a combined 70,000 square feet. You will see furniture, accessories and artwork from some of the finest artisans in the country. Woodland Creek makes many of its own furniture designs. You are dealing directly with the guys that make it – no middlemen. We have our own expert woodworkers, black smith, woodcarver and wood finishers on staff. Woodland Creek Furniture offers over 1,200 unique furniture designs, and all are available in custom sizes. When you visit, you will see artisans actually making the furniture. Image that – you can actually know the men and women that will handcraft your furniture. You will see many beautiful domestic woods as well as exotic woods from all over the world. If you would like to be part of the process, you are welcome to help pick the woods for your project. Check out our web site at www. woodlandcreekfurniture.com or come visit us we ship all over the country. August 2016 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE
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Meet the Company
S
Sweetwater Barn Co. LLC.
weetwater Barn Company is a family owned and operated manufacturing business that has been serving the equine industry since 1988. With almost 30 years’ experience, our dedication, hard work, knowledge and love for the industry have made Sweetwater Barn Company a success. As horsemen ourselves, we understand your needs. Our barns are designed specifically for horses and horsemen alike When purchasing from Sweetwater Barn Company, you can rest assured that you will be provided the best service and top quality products! Our walls come with a LIFETIME KICKTHRU WARRANTY, are chew proof and FIRE RESISTANT! Choose from a painted steel, hardie board or tongue & groove wall to achieve the look you desire. The interior of all stalls are con-
structed of 26 guage zincalume steel. This provides a safe and sanitary, easy to clean home for your horses. We have numerous options available: foaling stalls, tack rooms, wash bays, feed rooms, round pens, covered arenas, storage buildings and living quarters. We also offer a complete line of accessories for all your needs. Our buildings are engineered for your specific area for wind and snow loads that meet or exceed building codes. The modular design allows for easy expansion and the option of moving your barn. Our goal is to make
your project effortless from start to finish. Our most popular style is the Raised Center Aisle. The RCA barn allows maximum ventilation and ample light, providing an ideal and healthy environment for your horses. The RCA barn is a perfect choice for all climates!
Keeps water & feed from sloshing out of buckets, even when trailering down the road! Soft & st stretchy enough for your horse to reach feed & water at the bottom of the bucket. Soft sides protect and cushion horse’s face. Fits flat-backed or round buckets, available in two sizes.
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Our Gable style has a conventional roofline while offering the same amenities of the RCA style. Designed to be effective in all climates, the Gable style is functional, aesthetically pleasing and economical. Our Shed-row barn is extremely versatile and ideal for warm climates. This style offers the most ventilation and is very economical. For those interested in a classic and timeless look, we also offer our Gambrel style barn. This style barn will give you the “old time” barn look while providing all of the modern amenities! We LOVE what we do and it shows! As fellow horsemen ourselves, we know how important your horses and their heath/safety are to you! Our superior service in both construction and design are second to none! Just ask Scott and D’Lynn Jones who recently joined the Sweetwater Barn Family! “Service was outstanding and they stand by it. Deal with people you can trust! We don’t know why anyone would buy a barn from anyone else!” Scott and D’Lynn. If you are looking for a company you can trust, give us a try! Come join the Sweetwater Barn Family-you won’t be disappointed! We have “DEALRSHIPS AVAILABLE”, become a member of the Sweetwater Barn Team!!! Call: 800-678-2556. www.horsebackmagazine.com
DURASOLE KEEPS YOUR BEST HOOF FORWARD!
DURASOLE Durasole creates a tough, living pad between your horse's sensitive sole and the world's hostile environment. • Antibacterial, antifungal designed to thicken & toughen the sole and frog. • Effective for thrush & white line disease. • Ideal for lengthy use on chronically thin-soled horses without fear of drying out the foot.
Available from ALVIN FARRIER SUPPLY Two locations to serve you: 2498 C.R. 145 Alvin, TX 77511 281-331-3636
Dealer Inquiries Welcome!
16915 FM 2920 Unit B www.alvinfarriersupply.com Tomball, TX 77377 alvinfarriersupply@yahoo.com 281-290-9550 August 2016 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE
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FOUR HOOVES AND A BADGE Serving & Protecting Houston Style by Jane Meggitt
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orses in the Houston police department spend several hours daily patrolling urban streets. They also don’t wear shoes. The country’s second-largest mounted police unit – after New York City - features equines fed, trained and trimmed using natural horsemanship principles. They work hard and thrive. Sergeant Gregory Sokoloski graduated from the Houston Police Dept in May of 1981, worked patrol, jail and the Driving While Intoxicated Task Force until accepted into the Mounted Unit in October, 1984 when the unit was started with twelve officers and two sergeants.
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We watch heroic dogs sniff out bombs and mounted horses ride into crowds to disperse street crime. It is our honor to showcase our four legged heroes with the Houston Mounted Police Department and to support all the men and women in blue everywhere who keep us safe.
Sokoloski had no riding experience going into the unit, but he was a young energetic policeman who loved to work. “I went through a “riding” school and became a good rider, but as we went along I found the key was not riding but becoming a great horseman,” he says. Around the mid-1990s, the mounted patrol was growing as a unit and getting more horses in and he was given the opportunity to work with the www.horsebackmagazine.com
newer horses. “I was finding just being a good rider was not good enough so they started sending me out to clinics put on by good horsemen and women and that is when I became a forever student of horsemanship,” according to Sokoloski. Horses come in to the unit
photo courtesy Sgt. Kim Wills
between the ages of two to ten, and the unit does not look for particular horses. There are also two police mules in training now. “People usually start with horses to become good riders, but most horses are rushed through the foundation process and find eventually things are not working out either as a pleasure horse or competitive horse,” according to Sokoloski. “We start all horses over again and really August 2016 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE
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emphasize foundation and fundamentals. We take our time and build trust, confidence and partnerships.” He notes that the difference between when he first came in as rider and now is “amazing.” The unit tames, teaches, and then trains all of their horses. “A lot of horses we get in are trained but lack being tame and taught by human beings,” says Sokoloski. The old school ways of “breaking” horses is not used by the training staff. They are trained to become very tame and comfortable around human beings. The equines also teach new officers the “language of the horse” so they become good teachers. Once the horse is tame and then taught how to be confident, officers start adding more and more stimuli to keep their confidence. “Confidence in horses is very hard to get but very easy to lose,” he says. “We set up situations where our horses learn to always win and we try to never push past thresholds they may have.” Sokoloski thinks it is a bad idea for people to put up obstacle courses or stimuli to test their horses’ abilities and not use it as a confidence builder. He finds it’s equally disturbing if owners find the horse’s threshold and want to push through it or over it. Horses are what they eat. When a new horse is brought
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Sgt. Gregory Sokoloski photo courtesy Kim Richards
in, the animal starts out with a good diet. The unit doesn’t use bagged foods, but feeds an oat/barley mix. Most horses receive one pound of feed daily, along with free choice hay, and those needing extra weight are fed rice bran. Because minerals are so crucial, horses are also supplemented with them. Barefoot Horses A lot of horses come in with poor hoof quality due to metal shoes and high sugar diets. “Every horse we bring in adjusts to the diet and barefoot,” he says, adding they use Cavallo boots if needed. Boots are used if conditions merit them, such as a big protest where police may have things thrown
at them. There are four officers who trim approximately every two to four weeks, depending on the horse or mule. Officers ride five days a week, and sometimes more often with overtime or assignments. On average, horses spend 5 to 5.5 hours a day on concrete, asphalt or other terrain downtown. It wasn’t always this way. Sokoloski started asking a lot of questions about lameness and sickness with the horses around 1999.”I was getting a lot of traditional answers and really told none of my business - you do your job, we will do ours,” he recalls. “I researched all the way back to 1984 and what I found was staggering. The number of lame, sick and horses bewww.horsebackmagazine.com
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ing retired was more than I had thought.” Fortunately, the city agreed with him and started sending him out to learn about anatomy, diet and trimming, against the demands of the farrier and vet and some of the officers. “When I started to learn about correct natural diets for horses and correct natural trimming for horses, I had all the answers I needed,” according to Sokoloski. He found a horse eating a natural diet, getting a natural trim and moving as naturally as possible can tolerate working as a police horse on hard surfaces with no problems. All the natural horsemanship and horses going to work without metal shoes came to fruition in February, 2004 when Houston hosted the Super Bowl. Sokoloski had permission in 2002 to accept a young, never-started two year old Dutch Warmblood into the unit. “Shadow” was started under natural horsemanship principles and was never shod but trimmed naturally. “Shadow worked his first week downtown barefoot and bitless and he was simply amazing,” says Sokoloski. “We worked 14 hour days in a very festive environment and he was outstanding as a police horse and outstanding with no metal shoes.” Shadow now goes under the name “Texas Star,” and is sponsored by the McNair Foundation along with two other police horses. He is still going strong www.horsebackmagazine.com
and working now as a police horse for fourteen years. “After that week in 2004, the entire process of how we teach our new officers and horses was changed from traditional riding school to an eight- week basic horsemanship school,” explains Sokoloski. They use Parelli Natural Horsemanship as their guidelines. Currently all officers and supervisors have passed their Level 2 and all training staff has passed Level 3. After the Super Bowl in 2004, they started to pull shoes gradually off their horses, and all were barefoot by 2010. “We had a lot of roadblocks to contend with, but when people visit our facility
from all over the world we are pleased to show them 37 police horses and police mules that are healthy and happy,” he says. Every horse that has passed their initial vet check has transitioned to barefoot. “It is not a hard or difficult process for the horse. Once the diet, trim and movement is corrected the horse will grow strong as hoof problems result from diet. I invite anyone to contact me if they want a tour, watch me trim, watch me train, or have issues with their current horses. We have navigated the very traditional ways of training and caring for horses and feel now with the changes we have in place,
Sgt. Wills & Malo
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Sgt. Wills & Nacho
our horses are in their best shape physically and mentally.”
ferent breeds. Horses are taken in on a 90-day trial period, but the greatest hurdle is not the training, but the vet check. “Once they pass the vet check, we start them building their confidence. No matter how much training a horse has when it arrives, and we have had some Prix St George dressage horses, we start them all the same,” she says. “Some develop faster than others, but we let the horse tell us if they are ready to move on. We build their confidence to the point that by the time we take them downtown for the first time it’s no big deal, just another day.” One police horse, the pinto named Smash, has his own Facebook page, book and
Sgt. Leslie Wills is the supervisor in charge of training horses and officers. She’s also in charge of barn manageSmash on the job during Summer Symphony ment and care of all 38 at Hermann Park on July 4th equines. “We currently have 36 horses and two mules, all of which are donated,” according to Wills. She says people donate horses for different reasons.” The police department might receive a horse because a child is leaving for college and the parents don’t know what to do with the horse. Some donors want their horse to have a job and be a part of the department’s Barefoot and Natural Horsemanship program. Of those 36 horses, there are approximately 20 difHouston Mounted Police Con’t. on pg.25
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photo courtesy Sgt. Leslie Wills
fan club. Smash came to the www.horsebackmagazine.com
BAREFOOT AND BOOTED
by Carole Herder for Cavallo
H
orses were first shod with metal shoes before we understood the physiology of the hoof. A full plate was nailed into the hoof tissue intending to raise the hoof off the manure and urine-saturated ground where the horse was kept. The premise was that the elevation would stop the hoof rotting. Not surprisingly, the rot increased as it worked its way between the metal plate and the hoof. They then mistakenly thought that cutting out the middle of the plate, leaving only the outer rim would correct the problem. They also like the idea that metal covered hoofs were a more effective weapon for stomping on enemies in battle. Hence over a 1000 years ago; the metal horse shoe originated. As a responsible horse owner, one must understand basic hoof function and physiology. Of utmost importance is the function of the frog. The spongy little triangle’s job is to facilitate blood flow. And this blood circulation is imperative to the distribution of nutrients and oxygen throughout the tissue. Additionally, shock is properly absorbed as the frog makes contact with the ground, spreading the heels apart to allow the bone structure of the leg to descend. If you can accept that circulation and shock absorption are essential to healthy hoofs, it follows that limiting these functions will lead to degeneration and decay. When metal is nailed in and clamps the hoof in place, both proper blood circulation and shock absorption are dangerously impeded. The frog is elevated off the ground, the heels are clamped in position and further shock is referred up the structure by the impact of the metal on a hard surface. Imagine trying to enjoy a jog with metal nailed into the bottom of your Nikes! Good quality, properly fitted hoof boots are the obvious solution. Cavallo Boots are built to absorb concussion, so that the sensitive Lamellae of the hoof are supported. Blood is encouraged to circulate with ease through the proper channels, carrying a host of nutrients. The hoof can flex and expand to relieve the strain to extensor tendons and lateral cartilage. The main support system of the coffin bone can remain www.horsebackmagazine.com
strong and integral while keeping the develops, manufactures and distributes whole hoof protected. horse products in 25 countries Supported by Cavallo, worldwide. Carole and her you can keep your horse partner Greg Giles designed naturally barefoot and proand patented both the full tected, prevent injuries and range of CHoof Boots. Carole save money too! developed the Total Comfort Carole Herder System Saddle Pads to address has been involved in horse the other ‘hot spot’ for horses health since 1994. She ridden under saddle – their speaks internationally on sore backs. Providing comfort the benefits of keeping horses for horses is Carole’s passion. barefoot and in their natural state. Her Company Carole Herder’s Passion Cavallo Horse & Rider Inc. is helping horses!
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August 2016 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE
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H
EQUINE
Uckele Champions Know... ™
How to keep your horse glowing from the inside out. CocoSoya
®
A proprietary cold-pressed soy and coconut oil formula gives horses healthy fat and a cool-calorie energy source to build and maintain weight while promoting a shiny coat and excellent body condition. Sizes available: 1 gallon, 2.5 gallon, and 5 gallon. Pump included.
www.uckele.com Photo Feature: Uckele Sponsored Grand Prix Jumper, Wilhelm Genn on Happy Z. Photo Credit: Mary Kate Hassett
The Omega Fatty Acids and Hoof Health
Dr. Eleanor Kellon, Staff Veterinary Specialist for Uckele Health & Nutrition The hoof is not built to crumble under challenges – it’s designed to survive. The equine foot is a miracle of engineering and a design that is unique in the animal kingdom. It has been estimated that 60 to 80% of lameness issues in horses originate in the hoof. Because the hoof is a very active tissue that is constantly growing and restructuring the sole, hoof wall, frog and internal structures, its nutritional needs are very high. Although trim and genetics are also factors, good nutrition plays a prominent role in hoof health. Often overlooked, fat is very important to hoof health and integrity. The various fats and waxes fill the spaces between the keratinocytes. They give the outer layer a naturally slick feel and shine. The outermost layer of the hoof wall also contains a variety of fats and waxes, as does the “hard”/dead portion of the hoof wall. When present in correct amounts in an unbroken layer, these fats and waxes seal moisture into the deeper hoof structures and seal water out. Fat plays a vital role as the “cement” that holds cells together, helping ORSEBACK MAGAZINE AGAZINE August August 2016 2016 24 HORSEBACK
form protective seals that keep moisture from the environment out of the hoof, and moisture from the internal living structures from escaping. Supplementing quality fats can support the fatty composition in the hoof and feet and often has a visibly obvious beneficial effect. Although the horse is capable of synthesizing the types of fats found in the hoof wall, horses eating hay rather than fresh vegetation are consuming 50% less fat. Be sure to include the essential fatty acids including Omega-6, as the horse’s body cannot manufacture it. It must come from the diet. Fat is also important for the cells themselves. Phospholipids form the wall surrounding every cell in the body. Phospholipids also contain Omega-6 derived fatty acids, which are important for resisting infection. They are also important in signaling immune/inflammatory reactions if tissue is irritated or damaged but can also have an anti-inflammatory effect. The hoof wall is formed by specialized skin cells, and Omega-6 fatty acids support rapid turnover of these cells which must occur during hoof remodeling and growth in response
to exercise demands. Faulty nutrition isn’t the only factor in hoof-quality problems, but it’s a big player. While genetics and faulty care are also involved, adequate nutrition can make the difference between the hoof with a potential for problems, and one that actually develops them. A quality diet with correct essential fatty acid levels can go a long way toward promoting healthy hooves. About Uckele Health & Nutrition: Uckele Health & Nutrition, maker of CocoSoya®, is an innovation-driven health company committed to formulating and manufacturing a full spectrum of quality nutritional supplements incorporating the latest nutritional advances for equine athletes and companion animals. www.uckele.com Dr. Eleanor Kellon is an established authority in the field of equine nutrition for over 30 years, and a founding member and leader of the Equine Cushings and Insulin Resistance (ECIR) group, whose mission is to improve the welfare of horses with metabolic disorders.
www.horsebackmagazine.com www.horsebackmagazine.com
Houston Mounted Police Con’t. from pg.22
department through a network they have developed with other like-minded barefoot enthusiasts who don’t want their horses to ever wear shoes. Virginia Wagoner, an Oklahoma resident, contacted Wills and told her she had a horse she thought would be great for mounted patrol work. She explained that Smash was still a stallion, but was super sweet and very manageable - and he was Smash on the deaf. “I told her I was very interested, but he had to be gelded first. She had him gelded and sent him to us. Being deaf has definite advantages for a mounted patrol horse as he is not bothered at all by construction noises, or fireworks, or loud crowds,” according to Wills. Smash is very dependable and one of the horses used for dignitaries to ride in parades. “In fact, our current Chief of Police, who has no riding experience, rode Smash in the Rodeo Parade, which is one of our largest parades,” she says. Smash has also developed a very special relationship with his five sponsors, who also have special needs. You can learn more about Team Smash through their book, and his Facebook page.
job photo courtesy Sgt. Leslie Wills
Smash Fan Club!
Equines aren’t the only four-footed members of the Houston Police Department. The K9 unit currently has 39 teams. Most of the dogs arrive from Alabama defense contractor X-treme Concepts, Inc. These canines, bred specifically for police and military work, originate from Belgium, Hungary and other European countries. While the Houston K9 unit does not accept donations of dogs, monetary donations for unit support and dog purchase is always welcome. photos courtesy Kim Richards www.horsebackmagazine.com
August 2016 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE
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Training Tips..
What a Horse Thinks
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ave you ever truly thought about what your horse is thinking? Ever thought about how they interpret their world? Growing up, people used to tell me that to be a good horseman; you have to think like a horse. But yet, no one ever would tell me how a horse thinks. Today, we have all kinds of horse psychology books and videos published by the well educated and the not so well educated. So I’m going to give you my view point from experience (no college degree here, just scars from the school of hard knocks). In past articles, I frequently referred to the rider’s instincts. Hope you liked those articles, because we are going to talk about that again, but this time from the horses’ perspective. Horses learn by repetition. They need the same thing done over and over before they understand your expectations. They also have an amazing ability to see things in great detail, hence their great ability as wild horses to see the slightest movement or change in the landscape to detect danger, as part of their selfpreservation. Where we humans mess up, we don’t see things in great detail and we focus too much, missing the details. So when we think we are training our horse and think we are training an aspect over and over, because of our lack of attention to detail, we actually are not doing the same motions in repetition. We are actually sending all kinds of mixed messages. For example, the other day I was giving a riding lesson and told
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the rider to pick up their inside rein and “feel” it. When the horse gave their nose, I told the rider to let go, teaching their horse to give to the rein pressure. Then I told the rider to do that exact same thing another 10,000 times (to teach their horse to give). What do you think the chances are that the rider will pick up the inside rein in exactly the same way and release the pressure at exactly the point that the horse give to the pressure? Repetition and attention to detail are the keys to training your horse. Here is your horse’s view point… Trigger says…) Oh geez, here comes (insert your name) again. He’s going to put that big bit in my mouth again and it’s gonna be “kick to go and pull to whoa”. Why doesn’t he understand that by jerking on me to make me put my head down, I brace in my throat latch and my jaw. It makes my shoulders feel tense and my front feet are killing me. If they keep jerking me down and making me do that stupid hop at the lope, my hocks are gonna need injecting before long. The human translation… Be more aware of your horse’s movement, rather than always focusing on their head. Learn how to make your horse light in the bridle and drive them into the bit, so they can use their hind quarters and avoid being forehand heavy. Stop focusing on your horse’s head, and start being aware of their body and the rhythm of their feet. When the horse is cor-
rect in their body, their feet (stride) will soften. When they are driving with their hind quarters, they pick up their back to do so. The byproduct of this collection is to drop their head. Another viewpoint from your horse… (Trigger says…) You sure do pull on me a lot. You pull the reins, you pull on the lead rope and you pull on the lunge line. I am guessing that you want me to pull back, since that’s all you do to me. Get a clue, I’m bigger and stronger, so I can out pull you. The human translation… Horses learn by the release of pressure. Using the lightest pressure necessary to accomplish your task, then knowing when to reward your horse by releasing the pressure is key to just about all training and riding. Reins, lead rope and lunge line should be held like you are holding hands with your girl friend, boy friend, spouse or other significant person. Using a lightness of hand will help you feel the horse, increasing pressure only as necessary. When you need to use more pressure, use a bump; NEVER PULL! Same goes for leg pressure. We’ve said this in the past. When you think about people and horses, many of their instincts are exactly the same. The exception is that horses cannot reason in order to change their habits; people can. With humans supposedly being the smarter species, we have to learn to adjust our instincts www.horsebackmagazine.com
SLOW FEEDER BENEFITS
If
your horse lived in the wild, it would spend most of its waking hours searching for food. From research, we find that free range horses have very few hoof problems and are rarely sick. Spending almost 20 hours a day grazing, they travel many miles and eat only enough grasses to satisfy their hunger at small intervals of time. Secreting stomach acid continuously, the digestive system of your horse is strained when this slow feeding process is disturbed. When the stomach is empty, this acid can cause gastric ulcers, inflame the stomach’s lining and can eventually lead to colic. Your horse’s stomach is small and needs to eat throughout the day to maintain its health. A slow feeder provides this constant forage and reduces the acid contend of the stomach to interfere with your horses health. Secondly, this continuous feeding allows you to balance your horse’s feed, giving your horse the best way natural way to graze. SLOW BALE BUDDY Small Mesh Hay Net- Available in sizes to fit small rectangular bales as well as large round and rectangular bales. Mimics grazing, slows consumption and eliminates waste. Calms nervous and aggressive horses. BIG BALE BUDDY - Round Bale Feeder. Keep your hay clean and contained until your livestock eat it. Safe, affordable, effective. Available in 3 sizes. Visit bigbalebuddy.com, or call 866-389-9952.
to be able to work with the horse’s instincts. Sometimes when you are having a problem and starting to get angry or frustrated with your horse, you need to stop, get off your horse and think about what YOU are going. Try to think from the horse’s perspective. One final thing to remember…horses don’t make mistakes, people do. If you try to keep this philosophy in the forefront of your mind when working with your horse, you will become a more effective partner. Terry Myers is a national clinician and champion horse trainer with a depth of knowledge developed from over 45 years in the horse industry. Myers has been a popular clinician at multiple expos in the U.S. and Canada. To learn more about Myers’ Ride-In-Sync Horsemanship methods as well as clinic and training services available, visit Myers at www.tmtrainingcenter.com and on Facebook.
www.horsebackmagazine.com
August 2016 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE
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English...
Build Your Confidence
S
usie felt the warm sun against her back as she eagerly led her horse to the arena. It was perfect weather for riding. As she climbed onto the saddle, she saw her horse notice something off in the distance and her sense of calm disappeared. Anticipation began to take over. Her body became almost rigid as they began to trot faster around the arena. Fearing a sudden bolt, she quickly shortened her reins and locked up her arms. Sensing his rider’s tension, her mount became anxious and tugged at the reins, quickening his pace to a canter. Suddenly, Susie was pulled down onto his neck, losing her balance along with her control. In a moment of panic, she screamed and the horse ran faster. In the stable yard, everyone froze as they heard the bloodcurdling scream followed promptly with the sound of thundering hooves and a muffled thud as she hit the ground. What went wrong? Was the fall caused by the horse or the rider? Some might refer to this incident as a selffulfilled prophecy. Susie started thinking about what could go wrong and transferred that energy to the horse. Instead of sending him calming signals of control when he tensed up, her fear sent her into a panic response mode and alerted the horse that something bad was about to happen. Every rider has had moments of fear or insecurity. Successful riders have found ways to overcome or cope with those fears. An out of control ride caused by bucking, bolting, rearing, equipment failure or even a simple loss of balance can lead to overpowering fear for many riders. As with any sport, there are inherent risks that go along with horseback riding. Learning to recognize your own limitations and utilizing the knowledge that you have are good ways to minimize the risks. Learn to control irrational fears by identifying the problem at hand and
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then concentrating on the solution. Most people will hold their breath when they get nervous, tensing their muscles as a result. Make a point of taking a deep breath and letting all the air out to help relax your body. When people panic, their first instinct is to hold their breath and roll up into a ball for protection. Sit up straight and step down into your heels. As riders, we must train ourselves to stay in position when problems arise. By stepping deep into your heels, lifting your chest up and keeping your elbows close to the hips, you can usually maintain enough leverage and balance to control a horse. When you lift your heels and fall forward you become top-heavy and can easily be swayed off your horse. Understanding techniques to regain control in emergency situations also helps. In the case of a runaway horse, turn the horse onto a circle if possible and try the pulley rein. Shorten the reins until they are tight and push the left hand down on top of the neck. Lift the right hand to shoulder height and pull back with force. The leverage you get from pushing against the neck with the left hand and pulling with the right rein will stop almost any horse quickly. The hands can be switched as needed. A word of caution, however - if you pull too suddenly, you can drop a horse onto his side. It is an old stunt man’s trick used in the western movies. For a bucking horse, try sitting up straighter and lifting his head with your reins. To buck hard, the horse needs to be able to put his head down. By preventing him from lowering his head easily, you can minimize the bucking. A rearing horse is a very dangerous horse and should be handled with extreme caution. Many horses will begin backing before they rear. If he starts backing without being asked, let the reins go slack and ask him to step forward. If he continues to back, turn his head quickly to one side and send him forward again. A horse must shift his weight onto his back legs to rear so you need to shift his weight towards his forehand to prevent the rear. If he manages to start to rear, lean forward, push on his neck with one hand and turn his head with the other. Rearing horses have the potential to fall over backwards so it is best to either find another career for them or get professional help. There are too many good horses out there to deal with unsafe behavior.
But what happens when your balance is completely lost or there is an equipment failure such as a suddenly broken stirrup leather or girth? What happens when you lose your balance to the point that there is no salvaging your position? If you can’t stay on, kick your feet out of the stirrups. Then try to throw your arms around the horse’s neck or grab the mane to let your feet hit the ground first. Once in contact with the ground, push away from the horse and roll to get out of the way if you can’t stick the landing. By allowing your feet to land first, you protect your head, neck and shoulders. By rolling away from the horse, you protect your body from being kicked or stepped on even though horses will go to great lengths to avoid stepping on you. There are many more things that you can do to train for those emergencies. If you can, take a martial arts or tumbling class to learn how to fall safely. Spend time visualizing your response to difficult situations. Imagine the thing that you fear the most, such as bolting. Then, think about how you can prevent the bolt, such as a series of firm half halts. Picture what you will do to correct him, how it will feel and how your horse will react. By mentally rehearsing these maneuvers, you can train your body to respond much faster. Another element to conquering fear is to practice good position all the time. If you practice with poor position, your body will fall into the same lazy habits when you really need your best position. Never forget that everything you do is for a reason. Above all, remember to breathe. Breathing helps to relax your muscles so you can move with the horse. If you have difficulty remembering to breathe, try singing a song softly to yourself to keep the air flowing. It works! Fear can be conquered, but you must work at it to gain confidence. Know your limitations and be willing to let go of a horse if it is not a good match for you. If you ride long enough, it is inevitable that you will fall off. However, it is not inevitable that you will get hurt. There are many ways to keep the sport of riding safe. Controlling fear is one of the best ways! Cathy Strobel has over 30 years of experience as a trainer, judge and clinician and can be reached at Southern Breeze Equestrian Center at (281) 431-4868 or www.sbreeze.com www.horsebackmagazine.com
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It’s Too Darn Hot! Time To Keep Cool!
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elief from the HEAT is just moments away. Water activated cooling products are here. Products range from Ball Caps to Cooling Vests for People, Horses and Domestic Pets. We are offering this line of cooling products because they really do WORK! Don’t wait until the heat is unbearable to order your cooling products. There is a saying that goes - “An ounce of prevention is worth more than a pound of cure”. This holds true especially if you have ever had to stay indoors instead of attending an outside activity. Heat Stress is a BIG deal - do not take it lightly. Don’t get caught another day without a cooling item. As summer slips away we know the high temperatures will return again. www.horsebackmagazine.com www.horsebackmagazine.com
by: Hobby Hill Farm
Be proactive and purchase your cooling items ahead of the heat. All products can be washed, dried and stored for the next season. Visit hobbyhillfarm.com August August2016 2016H HORSEBACK ORSEBACKM MAGAZINE AGAZINE
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Tack Care...
Repair or Restoration
S
Horseback Magazine’s Saddle & Tack Editor
ince coming out of retirement to try and make a living, my main focus has been on antique saddle restoration. I just finished working on what could have been a really nice S. D. Myers, Sweetwater Texas saddle. I cleaned it, put new strings on it, replaced a couple of conchos, took off the Blevins buckles and re-laced the stirrup leathers, like they had been originally. I also found some period correct stirrups to put on it, and it looks pretty good. Someone had put a lot of work into making the old saddle usable, but with no thought to keeping it original. The work they did made the saddle usable, and more user friendly, but destroyed the originality of the saddle. Old, famous maker saddles should be looked at very carefully before choosing someone to work on them. This saddle, properly restored, would be worth about seven to eight thousand dol-
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lars. With the repairs it has had, it might be worth twelve to fifteen hundred. A full restoration at the time repairs were done, would probably have cost $1,000 to $1250.00. I’m guessing the repairs cost from $300 to $400. The saddle was re-fleeced, and it was a good job. They went back through the original holes and trimmed the fleece neatly. The fleece is modern golden fleece, rather than the natural that would have been used in 1915. It’s actually better, when trying to preserve originality, to have no fleece than to use the wrong fleece. The stirrup leathers were replaced, and sometimes, that is necessary. When the old ones were taken off, the pattern should have been traced, or, if still visible enough, “tapped off ”. The plain leathers work to make the saddle usable, but scream “replaced”. Blevins buckles were patented in 1961. They have been one of the best improvements in convenience ever in the history of saddle making. They should not be seen on a 1915 saddle. The patches on the swell covers are a prudent way to repair torn edges. A saddle that has been roped out of a lot may have the edges worn, or a horse may have gone down on his side and abraded the side of the swell, or any number of things could
have happened. About the only way to fix the swell cover correctly is to tool a new one, then try to simulate 100 years of wear. If you happen to have an old family heirloom saddle with a famous maker’s stamp, you would be well advised to seek out a professional saddle restorer and get some history on the saddle maker, maybe on the saddle itself, and see what it would cost to have it restored. If you want to just make the saddle usable, be sure you aren’t making a pig’s ear out of a silk purse! It’s much more expensive to restore a saddle that has been repaired than it is to restore one that is original. Many of these old saddles will not fit today’s horses, and repairing them will just leave you with a usable saddle that won’t fit anything. S. D. Myers was a much loved saddle maker in West Texas. His employees called him “Tio”. He moved to El Paso in 1918, so the S.D. Myers, Sweetwater saddles are really a great find. This is a really nice saddle, but it could have been much more.
Bandera’s Lew Pewterbaugh has been called the most knowledgeable saddle and tack authority in the Southwest. For private fitting consultation call (830) 328-0321 or (830) 522-6613 or email: saddlerlew@gmail.com.
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August 2016 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE
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DIGESTION & COLIC
by: Horse Sense Solutions
D
You Say – Not My Horse!!
id you ever wonder were faced with becoming extinct why the horse’s diges- But, then.... there was this horse in if they did not adapt to the envitive system seems so ronment. Can you imagine if you your memory that almost died. fragile or sensitive? changed today from eating a nice Understanding how horses sursupple leafy veggie salad, to eating vived climate change from rain grass on your lawn or even dry hay? IT CAN and WILL happen to you! Your body and the horses were not forest to dry grassland and adapted. designed to break down those fi A horse may have digesber roughages for food source. In tive problems by simple acts of nature the horses adapted to their severe weather change, change in environment which was a successtheir routine or an abrupt change ful survival strategy. The ancient in the feed source; ranging from ancestors of Equidae (The horse impactions, diarrhea, upset stomfamily) developed the ability to ach, refusing feed or not eating digest the dry climate vegetation by Reba Martinez up. grasses. Eating grass, which is a Did you ever wonder, difficult to digest, was a successful why? There is actually a really survival strategy. During this pegood explanation that scientists have riod many species were unable to adapt researched; after analyzing fossil data to eating grasses and became extinct. alongside of records of North AmeriHowever this survival strategy came with can climate changes. The researchers a price. Horses are non-ruminant herfound that the animals diets shifted bivores of a type known as a “hind-gut from rainforest fruits and leafy vegetafermenter.” This means that horses have bles to the more abrasive diets found in a simple stomach, just like us. However, grasslands. unlike humans, they also have the abil When horses first came into ity to digest plant fiber (largely cellulose) being, they were located in a rain forest that comes from grass and hay. type environment of vegetables, fruits They differ from ruminants (cattle, and lush leafy greens. This would be sheep and deer), which digest fiber in like you eating a large veggie salad. As plant matter by use of bacteria in comtime passed on, the land went through plex multi-chambered stomach to digest a climate change from being a rain forfiber by fermentation and use enzymatic est to a dry climate where the same vegetation would not digestion in the small intestines; a far more efficient digesgrow. Only a dry grass land came into existence. The horses tive system.
‘Wake Up Horse Owners’! (or someone you know) Part 1 Digestion & Why Risk of Impaction Colic
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August 2016
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Horses developed, because of means of survival, a delicate but unique dual system. The foregut is where digestion of simple carbohydrate sources such as starch from grain occurs. In the hindgut is where the fibrous sources such as oat hulls, beet pulp and hay occur. Foregut consists of: esophagus, stomach, small intestine and cecum. Hindgut consists of: cecum and colon. Digestion is by microbial enzymatic fermentation and takes place in the fore gut ahead of the cecum; the crude protein digestion and virtually all soluble carbohydrate digestion. At this time the fiber is not broken down and moves on through the digestive tract. Where broken down later by the fermentation vat called the Cecum and then absorbed in the colon. The horses have adapted to breaking down fibers, but they are not a ruminant type animal like the cow. They are classified as non-ruminant. That is why they need to be watched carefully to avoid deadly complications. Part 2 - We will continue with each step of digestion as it travels through the digestive tract. We will follow the food source as it travels through the digestive tract from the teeth and salivary glands all the way through to the anus. Each structure will be named and described and why colic impactions may happen in each part of the digestive tract - in the next issue
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August 2016 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE
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Horsebites...
of the program. “It shows there is help, and that if they ask, someone will help them. That is the most important part of this program I think. I love horses and putting them together with the children is like a dream come true.” Horses Healing Hearts is a 501(c) 3 not-for-profit organization utilizing horses to help children of alcoholics and addicts. To learn more about Horses Healing Hearts or how you can also help with donations of money or time, log onto www.hhhusa.org or e-mail Liz at liz@hhhusa.org.
ASPCA GRANTS $200,000 TO EQUINE RESCUE GROUPS TO ASSIST RETIRED RACEHORSES ASPCA Rescuing Racers Initiative has granted over $2 million to protect former racehorses from being sent to slaughter
The ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) today announced that it has granted $200,000 to 18 equine rescue groups across the country to assist their efforts to rescue and rehabilitate retired racehorses. The grants were awarded as part of the ASPCA Rescuing Racers Initiative, a major grants program that launched in 2010 and provides funding for equine rescues and sanctuaries that protect retired racers by offering alternatives to slaughter. Now in its seventh year, the program has awarded over $2 million to retired racers to prepare them for life after their racing careers come to an end. “The ASPCA Rescuing Racers Initiative allows us to provide much-needed grant funding to the many equine rescue groups around the country who provide critical resources to former racehorses, offering them medical rehabilitation, re-training or sanctuary to prevent them from being
Horsebites- Con’t. from pg. 7
sent to slaughter,” said Jacque Schultz, senior director of the ASPCA Equine Fund. “Their racing careers may have ended, but these retirees still have much to offer as they transition into new and varied careers – a process that requires significant time and resources.” Selected recipients include a wide range of equine rescues from 12 states, who will each be awarded a grant ranging from $5,000–$24,000, to help the groups increase their capacity for rescuing more horses. The organizations joining the list of rescues and sanctuaries as part of the ASPCA Rescuing Racers Initiative for 2016 are: • After the Homestretch, Ariz. • CANTER/National • CANTER, Mich. • CANTER, OH • The Exceller Fund Inc., Ky. • Foxie G Foundation Inc., Md. • Friends of Ferdinand, Ind. • Kentucky Equine Humane Center Inc., Ky.
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• Makers Mark Secretariat Center, Ky. • MidAtlantic Horse Rescue, Inc., Md. • Neigh Savers Foundation Inc., Calif. • New Vocations Racehorse Adoption Program, Ky. and OH • Old Friends Inc., Ky. • Racer Placers, Wis. • ReRun Inc., N.Y. • Safe Harbor Equine and Livestock Sanctuary, Tenn. • Standardbred Retirement Foundation, N.J. • Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance, Ky.
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In 2015, the ASPCA awarded over $1 million in grants to support 124 equine rescues and sanctuaries across the country. The grant money supported several areas of equine welfare including large-scale rehabilitation, emergency relief grants, safety net programs, and ASPCA Help a Horse Day, a nationwide grants competition of equine rescues and sanctuaries that is designed to raise awareness about the year-round lifesaving work they do to care for local at-risk horses who’ve been abused, neglected or find themselves homeless. Horses have been central to the ASPCA mission since the organization’s founding 150 years ago. The ASPCA’s efforts to further equine protection include supporting equine welfare through legislation, public advocacy, professional development, horse rescue and targeted grants. Most recently the ASPCA launched a broad “Adopt a Horse” public service campaign featuring “2 Broke Girls” actress and horse advocate Beth Behrs and her rescue horse Belle, to encourage potential horse owners to make adoption their first option. The campaign highlights the many benefits of adopting a horse from one of the nation’s hundreds of equine rescue groups. It also aims to connect the many horses in need of permanent homes with the 2.3 million Americans who, according to a recent survey, say they have adequate space, resources, and strong interest in adopting a horse. To learn more about the ASPCA, please visit www.aspca.org
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AJPHA YOUTH WORLD SHOW SUCCESSFULLY CONCLUDES WITH INCREASES IN KEY AREAS Overall entries up, more scholarship prizes offered, lots of smiling new faces APHA successfully concluded the 2016 American Junior Paint Horse Association (AjPHA) Youth World Championship Show on July 9 after 13 Horsebites- Con’t. from pg. 36 www.horsebackmagazine.com
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Horsebites...
days of premier competition for youth ages 18 and under, as well as specialty ranch horse and cutting events. The event took place June 27–July 9 at the Will Rogers Memorial Center in Fort Worth, Texas. This year, the Youth World Show offered more than $165,000 in scholarship prizes to AjPHA members competing at the event. Included were scholarships for top finishers in 82 world championship performance and halter classes, along with scholarships for rookie exhibitors, randomly selected entries and other special events—all of which was presented in addition to prizes awarded in individual classes and for overall champions at the show. Scholarship money was provided by the American Paint Horse Foundation, as well as private donations from APHA members and industry supporters. Entries at the 2016 Youth World Championship Show were up 9 percent over 2015, due in large part to significant increases in the Walk-Trot and Novice Youth divisions. Exhibitors and horses were drawn to the show from all over the United States and Canada for their chance to earn scholarships ranging from $1,300 to $4,500 per class. With 153 exhibitors earning scholarships during the event—83 of which were first-time recipients—the 2016 Youth World Show put a new meaning behind the phrase “getting the most bang for your buck.” “We’re thrilled to see so many new faces at this year’s show,” APHA Executive Director Billy Smith said. “It’s the ultimate validation that we’re doing something right. Word is getting out that APHA is doing great things for deserving youth, and we look forward to keeping that momentum going.” Six exhibitors proved they were the best of the best, capturing the show’s all-around and high-point titles. The All-Around Youth titles were awarded to Alexis Miller of Eaton, Colorado,14–18; Lauren Gralla of Norman, Oklahoma, 13 & Under; and Samantha Gross of Underwood, Washington, Novice Youth. These three young women earned additional $1,000 scholarships, trophy saddles and more great prizes. Four high-point awards were presented to top-placing Youth: Alexis also earned the High-Point English Youth award; Meredith Scroggs of Kelly, Louisiana, took home both the High-Point Western Youth and Power Performance High-Point titles; Hallie Horsman of Shelbyville, Illinois, won the inaugural All-Around Youth Solid
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Horsebites- Con’t. from pg. 35
Paint-Bred award; and Cara Christensen of Pilot Point, Texas, won the High-Point Walk-Trot award. Read more about these winners on apha.com/ywcs. The 2016 AjPHA Youth World Championship provided opportunities to shine outside of the show pen as well. The Robyn Hanna Sportsmanship Award honors an exhibitor selected by an anonymous panel of judges as someone who exemplifies what it means to be a role model in and out of the arena. Amanda Nelson of North Logan, Utah, received this year’s award, which included a $1,000 scholarship and custom Gist Silversmiths trophy buckle. The 2016 AjPHA Youth World Championship Show crowned 82 world champions during the 13-day show, which is the largest competition in the world for Youth riding American Paint Horses. Several additional events took place during the show, including a horsemanship clinic featuring Road to the Horse’s Barbara Cox and Extreme Mustang Makeover’s Stormy Mullins, as well as the ASHA/APHA Cowtown Ranch Classic and the ACHA/APHA Cowtown Cutting. The ASHA/APHA Cowtown Ranch Classic, sanctioned by the American Stock Horse Association and APHA, took place July 7 and featured ranch horse classes, ranch pleasure, ranch trail, ranch reining and ranch cow work, for all breeds of horses and all ages of exhibitors. Also new to this year’s slate of events, the ACHA/APHA Cowtown Cutting, approved by the American Cutting Horse Association and APHA, took place July 8–9. The all-breed event attracted 207 entries and paid out $28,471. For more information and news from the 2016 AjPHA Youth World Championship Show, visit apha.com/ywcs and check out the September 2016 issue of APHA’s Paint Horse Journal. Subscribe or renew to the Paint Horse Journal, APHA’s flagship monthly publication, at apha.com/phj/subscription or by calling (817) 222-6430.
Jumping Owners Club signs Memorandum of Understanding with FEI The Jumping Owners Club (JOC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the FEI, the world governing body for equestrian sport. The Jumping Owners Club (JOC), formed in 2004, provides a communication link between horse own-
ers and the FEI, as well as providing a platform for owners worldwide to share their common passion of equestrianism. The JOC focuses on growing the popularity of the sport around the world and is the sole body representing the views and opinions of the owners. The JOC and the FEI presents the Owner of the Year Award to the owner of the most successful horse in Jumping annually. This partnership agreement will see these two organizations continue to work closely together to support the development of equestrian sport internationally. “It is really good to be able to formalize the partnership between the FEI and the Jumping Owners Club through this Memorandum of Understanding”, FEI President Ingmar De Vos said. “We believe it’s important to recognize the fundamental role of the horse owners, highlighting their dedication and contributions to our sport. We are delighted to welcome Christian Baillet, President of the Jumping Owners Club, today to the FEI Headquarters to sign the MOU in order to further cement our relationship and continue to support the development of equestrian sport.” With a mutual commitment to enrich the relationship between our two organizations, we look forward to a greater sharing of information and best practice across our sport. Both organizations have a reputation for the delivery of high standards, through the exchanging of expertise. From our experience in these fields we can not only learn from each other, but further develop our strong and sustainable collaboration.” “As the president of the International Jumping Owners Club, I am glad to see that owners are being recognized by the Sport’s Governing Body, allowing the JOC to become the official voice of horses owners in the world”, Christian Baillet, President of the Jumping Owners Club said. “This memorandum of understanding will enable us to take a more active part in the development of the sport we are all so passionate about, while always putting our horses’ welfare in absolute priority.” “I would like to thank FEI President, Mr Ingmar De Vos and his team for their support over the years. We look forward to a continued and successful collaboration.”
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DRINK UP! WATER CONSUMPTION IN HORSES
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by: Jennifer Roberts, Sweet PDZ
ummer is officially here, and riding season is in full swing. We all love spending time in the barn, but as the mercury rises you should begin to monitor your horse’s water intake more than ever. We are all aware that horses need water to survive, but the amount may surprise you. According to Helene McKernan, a research assistant at Penn State University, an average horse requires 5 to 10 gallons of water each day. This number rises, however, with the temperature and humidity. During hot spells it is imperative that you provide your horses with plenty of clean and cool water. And yes, you read that correctly, McKernan noted that horses prefer cool water in the heat and warm water during the colder months, just like we do. If you find that your horse is not drinking water in the heat, you need to act quickly. According to McKernan, “A horse deprived of water may only live up to 3 or 6 days. After lacking water intake for two days a horse may refuse to eat and exhibit signs of colic and other life-threatening ailments.” To encourage your horse to drink, consider using a flavoring such as apple juice or sports drink (no artificial sugars please!), to entice your horse to drink the water. You may also want to consider adding electrolytes to your horse’s diet if they are sweating or have been in strenuous work. On last thing to remember, as you monitor your horse’s water intake is proverbial “what goes in, must come out.” Eventually, the majority of the water your horse consumes will exit the body in the form of sweat and urine. Sweat is easy to handle, but urine requires additional considerations. Urine in your horse’s stall, run-in shed and paddock creates ammonia. Ammonia is a health risk to your animals. The accumulation www.horsebackmagazine.com
of ammonia in horse stalls, barns, and paddocks is more than an odor nuisance; studies have concluded that low levels of ammonia stress a horse’s upper respiratory airways placing them at risk of pneumonia, heaves, and other serious illnesses. Using a stall refresher, such as Sweet PDZ, will absorb and neutralize ammonia and other odors while providing fresh and safe air for your horse in its stall. Stall refreshers are far superior to lime products in terms of ammonia and moisture reduction. It’s summer time, and the livings easy, but don’t become lax about your horse’s water intake. While it may seem simple, the lack of water in your horse’s diet can have horrid consequences. Sweet PDZ has been keeping stalls healthy for over 32 years and continues to be the leading horse stall freshener on the market. This organic (OMRI Listed), non-toxic compound captures, neutralizes and eliminates harmful levels of ammonia and odors.
Sweet PDZ is a far superior alternative to lime products for ammonia removal and moisture absorption. For more information, as well as a dealer locator, visit SweetPDZ.com.
August 2016 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE
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MAKE YOUR OUTDOOR ENTERTAINING SIZZLE THIS SUMMER! STYLE, ENTERTAINMENT & COMFORT ARE KEY
It’s summer time... and you know what that means: Pool parties with neighbors, picnics and barbecues, and nighttime get-togethers around a firepit or bar. “The outdoors is now the ‘it’ place to be, especially when it comes to entertaining,” says Wayne Franks, owner of Outdoor Homescapes of Houston, an outdoor living space design company based in Cypress, Texas. “In fact, the vast majority of our clients are telling us they want an outdoor living space they can share with family and friends – whereas just a few years ago, they were asking more for personal retreats and private ‘staycations.’” In fact, almost half (48 percent) of those surveyed in the 2016 Houzz Landscaping Study said entertaining was the most important function of an outdoor living space. Like these people, you want the best outdoor entertaining experience possible. So here are three must-haves from Franks and his experts. COMFORT In summer, Franks says, comfort is key. Of utmost importance – shielding guests from the elements. This means some kind of patio cover. “Roof extensions and pergolas are nothing new,” notes Franks, “but the materials
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and technology behind them are.” He’s talking pergolas that automatically adjust to the weather, opening and closing themselves via sensors. One – the iLouver by Arcadia Roofs − can even be controlled with a smart phone app. “Even if you don’t go that high-tech,” says Franks, “you can top your pergola with translucent Lexan polycarbonate sheets that let in light but keep out rain, UV rays and debris.” Similarly, Franks’ clients love the remotecontrolled, motorized retractable patio screens he offers: “They keep out bugs, they’re so easy to use and they’re perfect for today’s clean, outdoorsmeets-indoors look.” To beat the heat, meanwhile, many homeowners are installing the biggest, most powerful, outdoor ceiling fans they can find. One popular brand? Big Ass Fans. “Don’t laugh,” says Franks. “These industrialgrade fans offer serious cooling for many of our clients, especially as patio ceilings get higher with more air to cool.”
Similarly, people want to extend their outdoor entertaining further into the night or chilly season – so they’re investing in permanently installed, powerful outdoor heating systems like the Solaira quartz infrared heaters Franks offers. And don’t forget to offer plenty of seating. “Sofas and chairs should be soft, yet supportive,” says Franks. “Try before you buy – or get recommendations from family and friends.” Franks also suggests incorporating flexible, versatile pieces like ottomans and benches that can double as seating or tables. Speaking of tables, there should be plenty of surface areas– for food, drinks and personal belongings. In addition to a dining table, a large coffee table is a good idea, as are end tables and a raised bar along an outdoor kitchen counter. “A big part of comfort is ease of movement and accessibility,” adds Franks. “That’s why hiring a professional outdoor www.horsebackmagazine.com
designer is so important. They can design for optimal traffic flow between elements of your outdoor space.” STYLE “As clients focus more on outdoor spaces for entertaining, they’re also paying closer attention to style and ambiance,” says Lisha Maxey, Franks’ top designer and owner of LGH Design Services in Houston. “As for style, the movement is toward the more linear, contemporary, streamlined look that’s taken over indoors… its cleaner, less rustic and more pared down.” For instance, lateral wood planking and poured concrete are replacing granite on countertops, and stucco and faux-stone tile is gaining on the once-ubiquitous rough-hewn stone. Pizza ovens, once chimney-like and rustic with natural stone, are similarly giving way to more streamlined, contemporary units like the Forno Bravo models offered by Outdoor Homescapes. “The look is also more upscale”, says Maxey,” with fashionforward outdoor furniture retailers like Restoration Hardware and Janus et Cie offering full catalogs of all-weather, stylish pieces”. The number of amenities and features, meanwhile, has soared. “Clients want all the bells and whistles up front,” says Maxey, “as compared to a few years ago, when they would sink all their money into one grand fireplace or another main feature.” When it comes to ambiance, meanwhile, they’re turning to updated light fixtures and sound systems. “Our clients are increasingly understanding the importance of layered lighting for creating a polished, warm and inviting atmosphere,” says Maxey. “I’m putting in a lot of specialty lighting – pendants, sconces and chandeliers over dining areas. And people are buying the nicest fixtures they can afford.” Decorative pieces are well-chosen www.horsebackmagazine.com
and sparse, in keeping with the new, clean, streamlined look. Colors, as usual, are kept to neutrals, with pops of color kept to accents like throw pillows or stylish storage pieces. “Your best bets for adding color and character,” says Maxey, “are large-scale container gardens or something personal from your life or travel that serves as a conversation piece.” “With clutter now the enemy,” adds Maxey,” everything is concealed, from wires to components to pool supplies.” INTERACTION Finally, says Franks – outdoor entertainment is about interaction. And that includes you – the host! “We’re seeing a lot of design and products that are freeing the homeowner from being stuck behind the grill, managing the lights and music and fetching everybody’s drinks,” notes Franks, “They want to relax, mingle and enjoy their own party.” That’s where home automation systems have come in, allowing hosts to control several systems at once, such as outdoor lighting, heating and audio-visuals. These can now be controlled with smart phone apps via Wi-Fi, as can individual appliances like the iGrill.
“The iGrill allows you to control the temperature of a steak on the grill and lets you know when it’s done,” explains Franks, “so you don’t have to stand there and babysit it.” For this very reason, Franks has started also putting refrigerators and wine coolers on the side of the outdoor kitchen island facing the guests, so they can grab cold drinks for themselves and not have to ask the host. “Similarly, in our space planning, we always make sure that when the host is stuck behind the grill, he’ll be facing his guests so he can still interact.” Franks’ clients also love the Evo – a circular flat-top grill that turns outdoor cooking into a more social, entertaining experience. “This is great for open-display cooking where everyone can gather around, watch and comment on how the meal’s progressing.” An interactive outdoor living space also needs inviting gathering areas where guests can sit, talk and relax. “Any fire feature – a fire pit, fireplace or fire table – is going to be a magnet, especially at night, so seating groupings around them are a must,” says Franks. “Dining tables, bars and TV areas are also big draws.” Don’t worry if you don’t have every single new gadget and accessory. “What’s most important is taking the time to connect and have fun,” says Franks. “However you do it is up to you – just add a little comfort, your own sense of style and plenty of opportunities for interaction and you’ve got a foolproof plan for outdoor entertaining.” For more information on renovating your outdoor space, contact Outdoor Homescapes 713-569-1341 August 2016 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE
39
Trail Riding...
Summer Travel Tips
by Tom Say, Host of Best of America by Horseback
As
we write this, we are traveling with our horses between Missouri and Kansas. In so many articles and magazines, we sometimes overlook the obvious things that should be in our focus. I am reminded of several good travel tips to share and show how we travel in hopes that it may benefit you in some way. First, when I travel, I take hay from home that my horse is familiar with rather than make a change in the diet while the horses are traveling under stress. When I load my hay for travel, I like to break the bales into daily feelings and re-tie them. I then put the hay flakes in a heavy duty contractor bag for transport. It makes handling hay so much easier, but also protects the hay from sun and rain. There is another reason to do it this way which I will share in a moment. I try to keep travel to 8 hours or less but we often travel 10 hours. However, we never unload on the road. Many people feel they have to unload for the horse’s comfort, but in reality, they are doing it to make themselves feel better. Remember the horses are standing on rubber cushions or mats rather than concrete or hot pavement. The enormous risk of a horse getting away from you on the road is just not worth the chance. Leave home earlier when it is cool and make sure you arrive before dark. I target arriving before 3 PM. It is just not wise to unload in the dark at a strange place. When we do arrive, we prepare the hay and water buckets in the stall before we unload. It makes unloading and going directly to the stall a lot easier. It eliminates lots of recipes for problems. Keep it simple and think ahead. I lightly bed the trailer with the larger shavings, not the sawdust kind. People forget that when you are driving down the road on the interstate, that sawdust or dust shavings will blow all around, getting in the horses eyes and creating potential serious problems.
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I put sweet feed in the manager as a treat. Despite what many trainers say about treats, it is not wrong to reward your horse for loading well or looking forward to getting on to get at the feed. When I load my horse, I loosely tie them (not enough to step through) but with enough of a lead to allow them to lower their head to cough. A horse can’t hold its head up and cough, so this is important. When I tie my horse anywhere, including the trailer, I wrap the lead around the tie post or ring in such a way that when I pull it, it comes loose without whipping around the tie post. In other words, I tie it so it is instantly released. In an emergency, a tight knot, can be fatal. Back to the hay flakes in a bag: When we travel, we can feed a feeding of hay and we use the heavy duty bag to clean the trailer. When there is no place to dump the manure, we can put it in the heavy duty bag and throw it in the truck. This keeps manure from attracting flies to where we are camped, it keeps the footing area dry and gets rid if the stench of ammonia. (If someone lets their horse stand in wet manure and forces them to breath ammonia or worse, then they should not wonder why they have hoof problems or respiratory problems in their horse. Clean and dry is the basis to kill bacteria.) A final note. Because the heat index has been 110 to 112 degrees the last few days where we are, we did not stop at restaurants to eat, but ate on the road to keep the air moving in the trailer. Your horse can die quickly if left in a trailer in this temperature. When we do have to stop, including stuck in a traffic tie up on the interstate, we have a fan in our living part of the trailer. We open the bathroom door, turn on the generator to run the air conditioner, and turn on the fan to blow cool air to the horses. It sounds and is unorthodox, but I have not heard any complaints from the horses. It also keeps them comfortable and under less stress. If you have additional suggestions or wish to contact us anytime, please use my personal email that comes directly to me. It is tseay10@aol.com. Visit our website, www.bestofamericabyhorseback.com or “Like” us on Facebook, Best of America by Horseback, to find out where we are and when you might ride with me, Kristen or the Best of America Family. www.horsebackmagazine.com
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August 2016 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE
41
General...
Compliments Howdy!
Welcome to Cowboy Corner.
A
collection of hopefully useful cowboy tips and tricks gathered along the long trail of life. These words started Cowboy Corner in Horse Talk Magazine for the August 2002 issue. Folks it’s been a long ride with a few changes along the way. Horse Talk Magazine became Horseback with some new owners/managers. Hopefully Cowboy Corner has stayed pretty much the same “a collection of hopefully useful cowboy tips and tricks gathered along the long trail of life”. Folks, really, it’s been a hell-ofa ride. Got to meet lots of good folks, work with some media pros, and share some “tips and tricks”. Have been asked where does material for the Cowboy Corner come from, and the answer is, outa the Brazos river bottom in the great state of Texas. Having been affiliated with ranching since the first half of the last century has provided an education in “gitter done”. Poor folks just have poor ways. About education, fella told me last week that he had been attending Sunshine University working on a PhD, Post hole digger! Think we all have been attending Sunshine University in the last month. Back to Cowboy Corner. Had an interesting conversation a month or so ago with two of my cow workin’ friends. We’ll call them Luke an Duke. Well Luke and Duke and I were at the “Cowboy Country Club” also known as Monaville Hall enjoy-
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August 2016
ing an adult beverage in a cold, long neck, brown bottle. One of the hands spoke up about Cowboy Corner. “Jim, I really like Cowboy Corner, you write the way you talk and about things I know about”, Luke went on “you know I can’t read and write, but I get someone to read me Cowboy Corner every month. “You do what I do” says Duke, and “I like to read about it.” “Can’t read very well” Duke continued, “but you write words I can understand and read”. “Like Luke says you write like you talk”, said Duke. Folks, during fifteen years of Cowboy Corner I think Luke and Duke paid me the greatest compliment of all. These two semi-literate hands make a special effort to hear or read Cowboy Corner every month. Makes me think that sharing “a collection of cowboy tips and tricks” is working, and that my original goal has at least, somewhat been reached. This spring a real PhD, not post hole digger was visiting with me about Cowboy Corner and talking about some of the “practical, useful tips”. Guess if Cowboy Corner readers go from illiterate to PhD then another goal has been reached, to appeal to a big group with a wide range of literacy. The real word has all kinds
of folks, and hopefully, Cowboy Corner, written by a common man columnist, an ol’ cowboy from the Brazos bottom, can be enjoyed by all. Have told the story before, when I was in college taking a required course in technical writing, the instructor was a female retired army officer, and tough. About two thirds through the course the Major said, “Mr. Hubbard, you must be a good cowboy, ‘cause you’re not a writer”. Said yes mam, but you “can’t make a race horse out of a mule, but sometimes a mule is good enough”. Was good enough of a mule to pass technical writing and write fifteen years of Cowboy Corner. Not trying to be remembered as a columnist, just an ol’ cowboy from the Brazos bottom sharing a few tips and tricks. Looking forward to year sixteen, gonna be great with new challenges, and opportunities, so let’s saddle up and gitter done.
Happy Trails...
www.horsebackmagazine.com
ALICIA ERWIN
(at age 12) Mississippi Retail Account Representative Nutrena
WE START OUR JOB TRAINING PRETTY EARLY HERE. Horses run in our family
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