May 2016 Horseback Magazine by Horseback Magazine

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FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK

Summer Planning

he month of May is the time we begin By Steven Long looking forward to and making plans for the summer. School ends, trips are planned, and we look to making preparations to keep our horses healthy during the long, hot months. That is why this issue is about getting ready for the season. But summer also brings with it possible disaster situations, hurricanes down south, wild fires out west etc. Late last month those of us living in the Houston area experienced what has been called the 500 year flood. We knew there was a large amount of rain coming but no one anticipated the extensive flooding that took place and how fast the waters came, leaving many people stranded where it normally doesn’t flood, or for those that do have to monitor flooding on a consistent basis, dealing with water rising faster than normal. As a result of last month’s extensive rain and floods, we decided to publish a three part series on large animal rescues during natural disasters. It will help all horse owners put a rescue plan in place that will meet the needs of your particular situation. Many folks look forward to vacationing during the next three months. Getting away is great, but if you find you will miss not being around a horse for a week or two, we have some suggestions from our friends at Equitours. We wish all of our advertisers and readers a glorious summer, and thank you for all your support.

On the Cover:

Summer’s almost here - have you made your riding plans?

4 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 2 May 2016

May 2016

Special 3 Part Feature: 12 Lessons We’re Not Learning - Part I - Jonna Johnson

Cover Story: 30 Summer Health - Hooves - Tab Pigg 34 Summer Health Tips - Texas A&M

Lifestyle & Real Estate: 10 Pet Care Feature - Boarding - Shellie Brauener 24 Vacation Guide

Columns: 6 Horse Bites 20 Ride-N-Sync™ - Terry Myers 22 On the English Front - Cathy Strobel 28 Tack Talk - Lew Pewterbaugh 42 Cowboy Corner - Jim Hubbard

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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Jim Hubbard, Steven Long, Vicki Long, Roni Norquist, Linda Parelli, Lew Pewterbaugh, Cathy Strobel, Cory Johnson, Margaret Pirtle, Jaime Jackson Volume 23, No. 5 Horseback Magazine, P.O. Box 681397, Houston, TX 77268-1397, (281) 447-0772. The entire contents of the magazine are copyrighted May 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

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May 2016 2

HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 5

“Horse Bites is compiled from Press Releases sent to Horseback Magazine. Original reporting is done as circumstances warrant. Content is edited for length & style.” L2 Open Classic DP Gunnaoutshinya, a 2011 sorrel overo stallion by Gunnatrashya and out of Out Shinin Wimpy (QH), ridden by Jamie Bissell for Dorminy Plantation of Fitzgerald, Georgia

APHA rewards Paints at 2016 National Reining Breeders Classic FORT WORTH, Texas – For the third consecutive year, high-scoring registered Paint Horses and their exhibitors took home beautiful Gist Silversmiths trophy buckles at the National Reining Breeders Classic, thanks to APHA. The show, which took place April 17–24 in Katy, Texas, is one of the nation’s richest National Reining Horse Association-approved events, boasting purses exceeding $1 million. Four Paints ended up in the Top 10 of the prestigious Open Classic Finals with impressive scores exceeding 226.5. According to show management, approximately onethird of all horses showing this year were Paint-bred, most of which were already registered through APHA. Five horses eligible for APHA registration papers joined the family at the NRBC, thanks to on-site registration options, and one—Yes Ima Gunner—even took home a buckle in the Youth division, thanks to the lastminute decision. Congratulations to the following 2016 APHA/NRBC buckle winners: L1 Open Classic Lil Money Gun, a 2011 palomino overo stallion by Colonels Lil Gun and out of Miss Shiney Cat (QH), ridden by Arnaud Ferret (right) for Double PR Ranch of Pilot Point, Texas

6 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 2 May 2016

L3 Open Classic Cannon Gun, a 2012 sorrel overo stallion by Colonels Smokingun and out of Tuckerette Command (QH), ridden by Gabe Hutchins for Tamarack Ranch of Joseph, Oregon L4 Open Classic Gunner Dun It Again, a 2011 buckskin overo stallion by Colonels Smokingun and out of Dun Its Deja Vu (QH), ridden by Andrea Fappani for Paulo Tripoloni of Brazil Open & Open Classic Challenge Doc Bars Smokingun, a 2007 palomino overo stallion by Colonels Smokingun and out of Docs Dunnit Bar (QH), ridden by Shane Brown for Glo Tazi of Castle Rock, Colorado L1 Non-Pro Classic Big Creme Chic, a 2010 sorrel overo gelding by Big Chex To Cash and out of Cremes Chic Olena (QH), ridden by Samantha Roper of Hobart, Indiana L2 Non-Pro Classic Diamond Studded Guns, a 2012 sorrel overo stallion by Gunnatrashya and out of Like To Flo, ridden by Bailey Kolsun of Red Deer, Alberta, Canada L3 & L4 Non-Pro Classic MsDreamy, a 2010 sorrel solid mare by Magnum Chic Dream (QH) and out of A Gal With A Gun, ridden by Rick Christen of Whitehouse, Ohio Non-Pro Gunners Chic Magnet, a 2011 bay solid stallion by Colonels Smokingun and out of Wind Her Up Chic (QH), ridden by Michelina Carbone of South Bend, Indiana

Non-Pro Classic Challenge Jumpin Jac Trash, a 2007 sorrel solid gelding by Trashadeous and out of Sail Away Rene (QH), ridden by Madison Steed of Cochrane, Alberta, Canada Youth Yes Ima Gunner, a 2005 sorrel solid gelding by Colonels Smokingun and out of Double Sweet BH (QH), ridden by Sidney Perdue (right) of Granbury, Texas Rookie Nuff Gun, a 2006 sorrel solid Paintbred gelding by Colonels Lil Gun and out of Freckles Frannie (QH), ridden by Suzanne Allman-Mathura of Rockwall, Texas Exhibitors and Paint Horse owners can look forward to even more opportunities to win Gist Silversmiths buckles this year at the Tulsa Reining Classic in Tulsa, Oklahoma, the High Roller Reining Classic in Las Vegas and the Southwest Reining Futurity in Ardmore, Oklahoma. The NRBC—along with other NRHA-approved reining events as well as cutting and cow horse competitions—is one of the numerous designated events for 2016 APHA World Show qualification. The show counts as one of the four required shows needed for participation-based qualification, as well as two of the eight required judges. For a complete list of shows, visit apha.com/reining. BREYER® DEBUTS BRUNELLO PORTRAIT MODEL AT TRYON INTERNATIONAL EQUESTRIAN CENTER Legendary Hunter to be Honored June 10th. In the horse show world, the super stars of the sport tend to be jumpers or dressage horses. So it may come as a surprise to learn that the horse with the biggest fan club is super hunter Brunello! As with many things, Brunello is simply exceptional. The 18-year-old Hanoverian owned by Janet Peterson and Liza Towell Boyd claimed his third consecutive victory Horsebites- Con’t. on pg.14 www.horsebackmagazine.com

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HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 9

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HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 11

Special Feature..

The Lessons We’re NOT Learning [ Part I of III ] By Jonna Johnson

ick any hour of a day and somewhere there will be a horse in need of rescue from a manmade or natural disaster. As humans it is our responsibility to make plans regarding what we can and will do when our horses come face to face with adverse conditions. It is also our responsibility to implement those plans and understand prevention is key. Strategies that will be effective, and encourage us for practiced incident prevention, and evacuation plans for our horses is of the upmost importance. However, somewhere between the “it won’t happen here” mentality and the infrequency of disasters, we find it can be difficult to successfully validate response strategies and evaluate our plans. At one time or another many have witnessed or experienced some kind of disaster with a horse right in the middle of it. It most likely left some with thoughts of identifying and sharing “lessons learned” in hopes that they and their fellow equestrians would be able to make improvements in future responses, or all together avoid repeating certain situations or outcomes. Yet as a horse community, we continually witness the same mistakes repeated incident after incident. It appears that although we can identify some lessons, true learning and establishing proactive plans, training and keeping them current is a persistent problem in our world of all things equine. It is going to take commitment and effort on our own parts to identify and learn what we need to do to make our world easier for horses in times of trouble. Ask anyone that owns, manages or handles horses to

12 H HORSEBACK ORSEBACK M MAGAZINE AGAZINE 2 2 May May 2016 2016 12

see their incident management or evacuation plans in writing, and it is likely to be met with a blank stare or a response that contains the words “I know what to do, we have a plan”. And then somehow, many of us fail to learn that after all the various equine disasters we witness on a day to day basis, it is absolutely critical to have such plans not only in writing and shared, but physically practiced as well. By explicitly identifying our persistent challenges, we may be better attuned to them and more able to address them in their planning and training processes, if we will but make an effort. YES we as keepers of the majestical animal known as the horse, need to arrive at the realization that we must develop plans, and we must consistently train on how we will implement them. Disasters know no timeframe, no horse is immune, and therefore we must always be ready. Disasters in general are devastating. They traditionally do not occur as we may have anticipated, and we are often forced to change the course of action. Having plans and options gives us a variety of “tools” when faced with stressful circumstances. Those tools can help determine failure or success, life or death. There are many organizations and internet sights that can help give you ideas and outlines on how to prepare and develop “tools” that will become part of your plans to help your horses during times of trouble. That trouble may quickly become a life threatening event and should be taken seriously. For barn owners and managers there is a profound urgency and scrutiny that attends

disasters. It provides a powerful motivation for all to do well at creating plans and response. What happens to theirs and other horses during trying times, can and will affect more than just the horses themselves. Responders, people involved, and the public may often experience the results of the incident and final outcome. Incident management and evacuation plans are most likely to be a challenge for many, or so it appears. Do not give up hope for being able to create a solid plan concerning you and your horse. Know your plans will develop and mature as situations evolve and change. The main key is to engage in a plan. To help dissect the many challenges that will need to be addressed, be sure to develop systematized strategies that you and yours can follow when chaos occurs. In other words have plans so well thought out, documented and practiced, that if you- the creator of the plan were indisposed, someone else would be able to take over and know exactly what needed to be accomplished. Because there is an infrequency with which disasters occur, it can be very hard for us to test and improve our strategies to include all threats and hazards. However there is a way to help solve that issue. Every time you hear or read about an incident that has a minute possibility to occur in your horses world evaluate it, identify the lessons, document it in your plan and how it will be responded to, and communicate such to those included in your plan. Stay the course of being committed to it. Make an effort to cover every possible angle as gaps in emergency www.horsebackmagazine.com www.horsebackmagazine.com

plans can cause serious problems when disaster strikes. Plans are often simplistic and superficial. They fail to provide enough detail to be actionable, and what we believe in our head, often turns into something else once we place it on paper. Throw in physical actions under stress, a horse that is in some kind of danger or need, and you may quickly find a situation that is totally unrecognizable. Why do we as a horse community have no plan, or a plan with gaps? One reason is we have a lack of commitment to get serious about our plans. We believe nothing will happen to our horse, or we can rely on others to automatically know what needs to be done when not so good times occur. Then we make matters worse as planning processes are typically infrequent. They then often become dated and forgotten. Honestly, when is the last time you sat down with your family, friends, barn manager or boarders and discussed plans in a business-like manner? When is the last time you had a consult with your veterinarian, or any other professional that would play a role in your plans? We find that we go through a major incident with our horses, and when the next occurs we think we are ready because we learned and knew what to do, only to find we didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know what we thought we did. Yes it can and does happen to the best and most practiced of us. Learning from lessons learned is, at its core, a process of growth that requires a commitment for change. A commitment we make to ourselves and our horses as their keepers. From buildwww.horsebackmagazine.com www.horsebackmagazine.com

ing a first aid kit to sheltering in place, or a last minute evacuation, you will find there is hardly a situation that another equine owner has not experienced. By tapping into many available resources, such as horse clubs, breed associations, written studies from schools of higher education, and various organizations such a Technical Large Animal Emergency Rescue, we can discover lessons learned and apply them to our very own plans. Typically all free of charge. There is a very real consequence of failing to learn lessons because we had no real plan. It is a consequence that is possible loss of lives and property. (In some states horses are also considered property). If we as a horse community neglect to practice incident management and evacuation plans, horses and people

are going to continue to suffer because we have failed to fix the same problems that caused the same issues. This should motivate us to give serious attention to the goal of inculcating a culture of learning from past equine disasters to prevent future heartache and loss. As our horses keeper we must make a commitment to discuss and implement sound incident management and evacuation plans. We owe it to our responders, our family, our fellow equestrians, and most of all to the horse. If you, your barn, or friend lack a solid or updated plan, please take time and start one as soon as possible. Disaster respects no date or time, and no one is immune from them. Let the lessons learned be not in vain.

Recommended Resources for Disaster Information & Training: www.tlaer.org | www.eerular.org

Recommended Book for Writing Plans and Developing An Equipment List & Training: www.amazon.com/Technical-Large-Animal-Emergency-Rescue/ dp/0813819989

Articles to Help Start Your Plans: www.equisearch.com/discoverhorses/article/create-a-horsedisaster-plan www.humanesociety.org/issues/animal_rescue/tips/disaster_ preparedness_horse.html May 2016 2016 2 2H HORSEBACK ORSEBACK M MAGAZINE AGAZINE May

13 13

Horsebites- Con’t. from pg.10

in the USHJA International Hunter Derby Championship in 2015 and was named the USEF National Horse of the Year, for the second time, as well as Show Hunter of the Year by The Chronicle of the Horse. Rider Liza Boyd claimed the USEF Emerson Burr Trophy for the third time as well, thanks to Brunello. And so it is only fitting that Brunello takes his place among the pantheon of horses that have graced Breyer’s stable of horse heroes! Breyer is pleased to announce that it will introduce its new Brunello portrait model this summer, in partnership with Tryon International Equestrian Center (TIEC), on June 10th, as a highlight of the Tryon Spring 8 FEI CSI 5* (June 8-12). Breyer Brunello models will be available for purchase at Tryon Tack beginning Friday, June 10th. Only 400 models will be available for the launch and each model will come with a special mini Breyer TIEC blanket only available at this show, while supplies last! Purchases limited to 2 models per person. The Breyer Brunello portrait model will be available for purchase at Tryon International Equestrian Center beginning Friday, June 10th. The weekend will kick off with a special presentation of the first Brunello portrait models to be created for Brunello’s owners Janet Peterson and Liza Boyd, and longtime groom Alberto Ramirez on Friday evening, June 10th, during the Hunter Derby under the lights in the George Morris Arena at TIEC. Boyd and Brunello are preparing to compete in the Hunter Derby, offering fans and spectators a chance to see this historic pair live in competition. On Saturday, June 11th, from 2:00-6:00 P.M., Breyer will host free Stablemates painting activities, demonstrations by model horse hobby artists including sculptor Morgen Kilbourn, equine color genetics expert Lesli Kathman, as well as fun model horse showing with Michelle Masters. Breyer’s mascot Pal will visit and there will be raffles and contests for prizes. Event activities will be held in the Special Pavilion tent overlooking the George Morris Arena. Liza Boyd will be available

14 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 2 May 2016

for autographs (limited to 200) from 4:00-5:00 P.M. and Brunello will make an appearance at 5:00 P.M. as well for photographs. When asked what makes Brunello so special, Liza Boyd said, “Brunello--B: Brave to gallop under the lights. R: Rideable, to turn oh-so-tight; U: Unique, not your typical hunter type. N: Naughty-In his stall he will bite. E: Ego he thinks he’s always right. L: Longevity-At 18 he’s still jumping with height. L: Lexington-three times he has had a magical derby night. O: Owl-For his wisdom and insight.” Tryon International Equestrian Center is a state of the art equestrian facility located in Mill Spring, North Carolina. The venue offers competitors access to an array of equestrian sports including hunter/jumper, dressage, and eventing competitions throughout the year. The facility, which officially opened in 2014, began its inaugural year for FEI competition in 2015. This year, TIEC is set to host two CSI 5* competitions, as well as the prestigious Nutrena® USEA American Eventing Championships in early September, as well as two FEI CDI 3* competitions for dressage riders. TIEC is conveniently located just 45 minutes from Asheville, NC, and an hour from Charlotte, NC, in the rolling hills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Tryon Riding and Hunt Club (TRHC), an important supporter of the equestrian community in the Western Carolinas, sparked the discussion regarding the creation of a Brunello Breyer model, as co-owner Janet Peterson is a longtime member of the organization. A social media campaign initiated by TRHC, has been tremendously influential in recognizing and honoring the remarkable career accolades of Boyd and Brunello. “Having a Breyer model of Brunello to celebrate his accomplishments is something very special. He is a wonderful horse and is incredibly well loved by all of those involved with him, including myself, Liza Boyd, and her father Jack Towell,” said Peterson. “I’m very much looking forward to this replica of him, as well as the ceremony that is planned for June 10th. He has a large fan base and following in the Carolinas and I

hope that everyone will join us for the festivities to honor his achievements.” For those who can’t be at TIEC for the presentation, Breyer and TIEC will host an online sweepstakes offering six (6) Brunello models with TIEC model blankets signed by Liza Boyd via the Tryon International Equestrian Center (TIEC) and Breyer Facebook pages and as well as the Tryon International Equestrian Center on Facebook and Breyer Instagram pages! Stay tuned for more information! TWO LONE STAR PARK CONNECTIONS ELECTED TO THEIR RESPECTIVE HALL OF FAMES Lone Star Park at Grand Prairie congratulates trainer Steve Asmussen for his election to the National Museum of Racing’s Hall of Fame and Paddock Host Dave Appleton for his election to the Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame. Steve Asmussen Elected to the National Museum of Racing’s Hall of Fame, Steve Asmussen holds the title as Lone Star Park’s all-time leading trainer. He has won the training title here a record 11 times, 1999-2002, 2004 (both spring & fall seasons) 2005-2009. Since recording his first win here April 17, 1997, Asmussen has won 1,136 races earning $24,831,395 in purse money and holds the record for number of stakes wins with 76. Born in Gettysburg, South Dakota, Asmussen became the first trainer to achieve 1,000 wins here on April 16, 2015. To date, no other trainer has reached that milestone. He holds records for most wins in a single season (117) 2009, single day stakes wins (4) Memorial Day, 2004, and most single day race wins (7) July 14, 2002. On a national scale, the Arlington, Texas resident is currently second in number of all time North American wins with 7,287. He sits fourth in all time earnings with a total of $241,071,415. Here are just a few highlights from a training career spanning 30+ years:

Horsebites- Con’t. on pg.18

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Still The One! NO DENYING IT!

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HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 15

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Elgin General Store Elgin , TX 512-285-3210 Potts Feed Store, Inc Emory, TX 903-473-2249 Capps True Value Hardware & Ag Fairfield, TX 903-389-4505 Farmersville Feed and Hardware Farmersville, TX 972-782-7241 Pecos County Feed and Supply Fort Stockton, TX 432-336-6877 Marshall Grain Company Fort Worth, TX 817-536-5636 Rendon Hardware and Feed Fort Worth , TX 817-561-1935

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Pasturas Los Alazanes Dallas, TX 469-386-9360 Aggie Feed Store Dallas, TX 214-391-3595 Damon Farm & Ranch (Tx) (Main) Damon, TX 979-742-3317 Chachere Feed Store, Inc. Dayton, TX 936-258-2670 Stockman’s Seed & Fertilizer De Leon, TX 254-445-3337 NRS Feed Store Decatur, TX 940-627-3949

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Kerrville Ranch and Pet Center Kerrvile, TX 830-895-5800 Lavernia Country Store La Vernia, TX 830-779-2600 Hoffpauir’s Ranch & Supply Lampasas, TX 512-556-5444 Bear Creek Leonard, TX 903-587-0385 Lexington Feed and Farm Lexington, TX 979-773-2782 Chachere Feed Liberty, TX 936-336-5273 Livingston Feed & Farm Supply Livingston, TX 936-327-8853 Llano Feed & Supply Llano, TX 325-247-4126 Smith Supply, Lockhart Lockhart, TX 512-398-3785 Mabank Feed Mabank, TX 903-887-1771 Standley Feed & Seed, Inc Madisonville, TX 936-348-2235 Spring Creek Feed Center Magnolia, TX 281-252-5400 Mansfield Feed Mansfield, TX 817-473-1137 Watsons Feed Store Mart, TX 254-876-2501 McGregor General Store, LLC McGregor, TX 254-840-3224 D&L Agmart McKinney, TX 972-562-9995 Ark Country Store/ Midlothian Midlothian, TX 469-612-5050 Walden Farm & Ranch Supply - Millsap Millsap, TX 940-682-4667 C and S Feed and Farm Supply Montgomery, TX 936-597-4050 Needville Feed and Supply Needville, TX 979-793-6146

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Sabinal Grain Sabinal, TX 830-988-2215 Lubianski’s Grain Saint Hedwig, TX 210-667-1145 Grogan’s Farm & Ranch San Angelo, TX 325-227-6870 Mumme’s, Inc San Antonio, TX 830-980-4924 Mini Ranch San Antonio, TX 210-628-1535 D&L Farm & Home - Sanger Sanger, TX 940-458-0111 Tibaldo’s Feed & Supply Santa Fe, TX 409-925-2735 D&D/Luling Feed & Supply Seguin, TX 830-379-7340 Producer’s Cooperative Seguin, TX 830-379-1750 Beran’s Agri-Center Shiner, TX 361-596-7243 Somerville Farm and Ranch Somerville, TX 979-596-2224

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HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 17

Horsebites... Won five Champion U.S. training titles by wins, 2002, 2004-05, 200809, Two Eclipse Award’s for outstanding trainer, 2008-09. Conditioned 2007 -08 American Horse of the Year Curlin and 2009 American Horse of the year, Rachel Alexandra. In 2007, Curlin won the Rebel Stakes, Arkansas Derby, Jockey Club Gold Cup and the Breeders’ Cup Classic, and in 2008 Curlin posted victories in the Stephen Foster, Woodward Stakes and his second Jockey Club Gold Cup. Asmussen next campaigned Rachel Alexandra to her 2009 Horse of the Year title with victories that included the Fair Grounds Oaks, Fantasy, Kentucky Oaks, Preakness Stakes, Mother Goose, Haskell Invitational and the Woodward Stakes. Asmussen is still looking for his first Kentucky Derby win. He has two hopefuls this year in Gun Runner, winner of the Risen Star and Louisiana Derby, both at Fair Grounds and Creator, third in the Rebel and winner of the Arkansas Derby, both at Oaklawn Park. Dave Appleton Appleton has been Lone Star Park’s TV personality and paddock host, lending insight on the horses before each race, since its inaugural season in 1997. He came here with quite an impressive resume’ of accomplishments. His previous career as a Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association competitor, Appleton achieved greatness when he qualified for the National Finals Rodeo in 1988, and won the World Champion All Around Cowboy title. Originally from Queensland, Australia, Appleton is currently a resident of Arlington, Texas. He was the first Australian born cowboy to win a PRCA world championship title. In addition to winning the gold buckle for all around in 1988, he was an eight time NFR qualifier for bareback riding, 1982-88 & 1990, and three time qualifier for saddle bronc riding, 1984-86. Appleton also won the NFR average title for saddle bronc riding in 1986. Asmussen is set to be inducted into the National Museum of Racing’s Hall of Fame August 12, 2016 in Saratoga Springs, NY and Appleton

18 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 2 May 2016

Horsebites- Con’t. from pg. 14

will be inducted into the Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame on August 6, 2016 in Colorado Springs.

NRHA PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR AWARDS ANNOUNCED NRHA Million Dollar Rider Dell Hendricks was named the National Reining Horse Association’s Professional Horseman of the Year for 2015. He was in good company with NRHA Professional Sam Smith earning the NRHA Non Pro Coach of the Year, plus NRHA Professional Kim Dierks as the Horsewoman of the Year, Devin Warren as Youth Coach of the Year and NRHA Professional Mathieu Buton as Up-and-Coming Trainer of the Year. With the highest number of nominations NRHA has ever had, Shane Brown, Chair of the Professionals Committee was elated. “It’s amazing the gratitude these professionals show when receiving these awards,” said Brown. NRHA Professional Horseman of the Year NRHA Million Dollar Rider Dell Hendricks, a resident of Tioga, Texas and active member of the Southwest Reining Horse Association, has been an NRHA member since 1991 and throughout his reining career has earned more than $1,697,000 in NRHA Lifetime Earnings. More important than his winnings, has been his dedication to his clients and their success. His ability to communicate with riders of all ages, having clients ranging from 12 to 78, touts his success as a coach. Not only has he been a mentor to an abundance of non pros over the years, he has served on the Executive Board, he’s a past President of NRHA and has taught clinics across the world at the request of NRHA. Hendricks has been an NRHA Professional since 2003 and has had great success in the show pen having been an NRHA Futurity Champion, NRHA Futurity Reserve Champion, 5-Time NRBC Open Derby Champion, AQHA Congress Open Futurity Champion and World Equestrian

Games Team USA Gold Medalist, accomplishments that are just a portion of his major event winnings. Hendricks’ dedication not only to the reining industry but also his clients is evident as he sets up his clientele to be in the winner’s circle. NRHA Non Pro Coach of the Year Sam Smith of Marietta, Oklahoma has been said to “live and breathe the sport of Reining.” And it is this lifelong dedication to promoting the NRHA and the preparation of the horses to the sport that has enabled him to be successful not only as a rider but also as a coach. With over 30 years of experience as a trainer, Smith has more than proven his talent in the show pen boasting in excess of $570,000 in NRHA Lifetime Earnings. More importantly, Smith has coached countless youth, open and non pro circuit champions and year end winners and “demonstrates great patience with all of his riders” and “truly wants them to succeed.” In addition to Smith’s superior coaching skills, he has served on several professional committees and is also an NRHA Judge. He is also active in the Southwest Reining Horse Association (SWRHA). With Smith’s work ethic that is “second to none” and a focus that “never falters,” he, along with his clients, will continue to be successful in the show pen. NRHA Professional Horsewoman of the Year Between showing reining horses as a professional, coaching clients, and developing high caliber reining prospects, Kim Diercks has established herself in the reining horse industry. An NRHA Professional, Diercks has been involved with the association since 1986 and has since established herself as a respected and successful trainer. Diercks has dedicated herself to the promotion and success of the NRHA at both the affiliate and national levels. She’s an Affiliate Board member, show manager, Rookie Day Horsebites- Con’t. on pg. 33

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HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 19

It’s All About the Shoulders!

aving trouble with your horse bucking or rearing? Barring any physical problems, your problem is in your horse’s shoulders. Problems with collection? It’s a shoulder problem. Horse loping too fast? Yep-it’s a shoulder problem. Knocking down a barrel in your barrel pattern? Definitely a shoulder problem. Missing leads or lousy spins in reining? You guessed it—shoulder problem. More than anything, having your horse soft and square in their shoulders improves performance in just about any discipline. A horse must be square in their shoulders in order to be able lift their back and drive with their hind end. If they are not square in their shoulders, the hind end has no place to go and they end up with their hocks out in their tail. How do you fix a horse that is stiff in their shoulders? It starts with being aware of your horse’s feet and understanding when they are forehand heavy or heavy in one foot. For people who have ridden in my clinics, you have heard me say “count the feet and feel the rhythm.” For example; when you

count your horse’s feet at the walk, your count should be steady and consistent, much like a march. If not, you will notice one hoof beat that seems heavier than the rest. That will probably be the inside front foot, meaning your horse is dropping that shoulder. You need to be able to feel this at all three gaits, but you should always start at the walk. Many times a horse drops their inside shoulder because the rider is tilting their head and looking down at their horse’s nose. When the rider does that, they drop their inside shoulder. The horse will mirror what the rider is doing. Try this exercise. Sit is a chair and tilt your head slightly to your left shoulder and look down. Notice how your left shoulder drops. You will have that same effect on your horse. Riders instinctively want to watch their horses nose. I’ve been riding horses all my life and have never seen a horse’s nose fall off. So stop watching the nose! Instead, look through your horses ears. You should be able to put a level from tip to tip on top of their ears and have that bubble be right in the middle. If you look at their ears and one dips lower than the other, they are dropping that ear. Where the ear goes, so goes the shoulder. Example, if you are riding in a circle to the left (counter clock wise) and you see your horse’s left ear is lower

than their right, they are dropping their left ear and shoulder and have their nose tipped to the outside of your circle. That means their nose is not in front of them. Think about it, a horse always wins a race by a nose, not an ear. They have to follow their nose to be balanced. The exception is when you are doing a counter bend. Many times riders have been taught to ride with their elbows clamped into their sides. Riders who are not confident or scared will ride with their elbows in their sides, setting them in the fetal position. Their horse’s response is to stiffen and drop their shoulders. Try this: sit in a chair and clamp your elbows into your sides. Feel how this causes you to round and drop your shoulders. Now open your elbows and “air your arm pits.” Feel how this lifts your shoulders and puts you in a more balanced position. Another pet peeve of mine is people who ride with an arch in the back. When a rider puts an arch in their back, they roll their pelvis forward and dump their weight on their horse’s front end. A horse already has 60% of their body weight on their front legs. If the rider arches their back, they are making their horse’s job much harder by adding their weight to that already heavy front end. The remedy is simple. Ride on your pockets, i.e. roll your pelvis back in your 0 YEARS

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saddle and sit deeper in your saddle. Then take a breath and relax! I don’t care if you ride western or English, this is the rule. I always say if the rider is not balanced, the horse cannot be balanced. The fixes we talk about in this article are critical before we talk about fixing a horse with shoulder problems. Now that we have fixed the rider, next month we’ll discuss how to fix the horse. It’s all about the shoulders. Your horse can’t buck, kick or rear if they are soft and square in their shoulders. Remember, horse mistakes are usually people mistakes. Questions about this or any of our articles can be emailed to us at myers5000@aol.com. 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 methods as well as clinic and training product/services available, visit Myers at www.tmtrainingcenter.com and on Facebook. www.horsebackmagazine.com

May 2016 2

HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 21

English...

The Wisdom of Bernie Traurig

very serious rider should make a point of furthering their education by periodically riding with or auditing noteworthy clinicians. For experienced riders, clinics can give a fresh perspective on how to break free from bad habits or define a weakness in their performance. Clinics are also great for riders without a knowledgeable instructor who can help them on a regular basis. Personally, as a teacher and trainer, I like to watch how the clinician handles a variety of horse and rider issues instead of focusing on just the horse underneath me. However, if you have only one horse or a particular problem with a horse, riding can be a better option. Recently, I went to a clinic that was incredibly inspiring. Bernie Traurig’s clinic was filled with useful exercises and information that was presented in such a positive way that even the riders who struggled were able to remain comfortable and focused in front of a group of onlookers. In his encouraging style, Bernie explained what each rider should do to improve their horse’s performance and why it would help. The importance of good flatwork was stressed. With a variety of flatwork exercises, he helped each rider improve the rideability of their horse. With the majority of the strides on a jumping course being on the flat and only a limited number of strides being executed as jumps, it was easy to see why flatwork improves jumping. The time was well spent. Later, as he explained how an opening rein over each jump would help to produce the correct lead, we watched rider after rider successfully land the desired lead. His focus on horsemanship to train the horse was beneficial to each

22 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 2 May 2016

horse and rider. He made it clear that everything has to make sense to a horse. For example, if a horse is disobedient, a quick reprimand is important. When your horse refuses a jump, don’t just keep cantering by the jump, bring him to a walk and then use your crop. It makes no sense to the horse. He needs to feel the crop or your heel as soon as he refuses so he knows why he’s been punished. Then he needs to be asked again so you can reward him when he is obedient. The horse needs to want to do what you are asking him to do. Bernie says that you need to communicate with your horse in a clear and simple language. Meanwhile, riders need to learn to read and evaluate the horse’s reactions. His exercise of the triple combination to teach a horse to pick his feet up cleanly is incredibly valuable. With multitudes of adjustments that can be made to tweak the distances, heights and spreads, he explained how you can set up a bounce, to a one stride, to a bounce for starters. It’s a favorite exercise of his that he told me he keeps set up at his home. He takes his horses through it a couple of times each session as a standard part of his jumping routine. I think one his most important points was that the rider needs to be adjustable to each horse. Not all horses can be ridden the same way successfully. It’s a point that most successful trainers know but amateurs might not stop to think about. Thoroughbreds, quarter horses, warmbloods and ponies can all have different levels of sensitivity and energy. They are all built differently and respond in their own way. He stresses that you have to study horsemanship to truly become a horseman and the rider has to adapt to the feel of each horse.

The road to becoming a horseman is something Bernie understands. Growing up in Long Island, he discovered horses when he was 11. His parents bought a family horse for $600 that he shared with his parents. With his horse in the back yard, Bernie found the local Pony Club and was able to have instruction at his house every week. He soon started competing in local horse shows. From those humble beginnings, Bernie has evolved into a legendary horseman. In his lifetime, Bernie has trained with many notable horsemen such as Vladimir Littauer, Bert De Nemethy, Christolot Boylan, Rodney Jenkins, George Morris, Frank Chapot and Mike Smithwick. The list doesn’t end there either. Throughout his career, his work ethic and desire to learn more has earned him countless honors. At 16, he won the USHJA Medal Finals. The ASPCA Maclay Medal was also his in 1961. In his late teens, he was invited to train with the USET 3 Day Eventing Team in Gladstone, New Jersey which led to the 1964 Olympics in Tokyo on Envoy. Winning many National Working Hunter Championships, Bernie has left his mark in the hunter world and was inducted into the National Show Hunter Hall of Fame in 2009. In the Show Jumping arena, he has proven himself beyond reproach with over 60 Grand Prix wins. Again, he wore the USET colors on the US Show Jumping Team as he competed in the 1982 World Championships in Ireland, 8 World Cup Finals, won the US League 4 times and qualified for the top spot in the World Cup Finals. The California Professional Horseman’s Association honored him with a Lifetime www.horsebackmagazine.com

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Achievement Award in 2010. As if that isn’t enough, Bernie Traurig is just as well known in the dressage arena. Winning 15 Grand Prix and Grand Prix Special classes, he was short listed for the 1986 World Championship Trials and the 1988 Olympics. Also winning the High Point Dressage Award in 1988 at the Olympic selection trials, Bernie has proven that he is one of the most capable horsemen in the world. Thankfully, he generously shares his knowledge any way he can with anyone who wants to know more to improve their equestrian skills. Perhaps one of his greatest accomplishments is the creation of an online training tool for horse professionals and amateurs alike. It is filled with wisdom from professionals in the industry. If you get a chance to see him in person at a clinic, GO! If you can’t, then at least check out his online training support at equestriancoach.com. 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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HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 23

Vacation Guide...

Considering aVacation Without Horses? NEIGH!

Looking to get away this summer but stay “in the saddle”? Check out these destinations offered through Equitours

CANADA - ST. LAWRENCE RIDE Horseback riding in Quebec allows you to explore rural country and follow logging roads made over 200 years ago, which now lead to picturesque little villages tucked away in the forest. This area has much history, as it was the second permanent settlement founded in what was then “New France” in the 1600’s. Discover the natural beauty of your farmhouse accommodations, and the peace of a cabin deep in the woods. This is not a luxurious trip, but comfortable and rustic. The food is good and the hospitality is warm with merry evenings complete with guitar playing and songs. Experience western riding on well-trained mounts and try your hand at working cattle. This Canadian holiday in will allow you to experience the best that riding Quebec has to offer. RIDE & HORSE DETAILS Horse Breeds: Appaloosa and Quarter Horse Cross, Canadian Trip Pace: Slow to Moderate Tack: Western Weight limit: 220 lbs MEETING POINT: Trois Rivieres

24 24 HHORSEBACK ORSEBACKM MAGAZINE AGAZINE2 2May May2016 2016

YOGA AND HORSEBACK RIDING This is an exciting new offering which combines the disciplines of Yoga and horseback riding in the unparalleled beauty and peace of the Bitterroot Ranch. These are two activities which complement each other well, both improving body awareness and flexibility to create a holistic experience. Each day will be a combination of Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga sessions led by renowned instructor Olivia Hsu and exhilarating and rejuvenating trail rides in the vast Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, with the option for lessons. Appropriate both for avid Yoga practitioners and riders, the week promises enrichment and enjoyment no matter what your background. www.horsebackmagazine.com www.horsebackmagazine.com

CLASSICAL DRESSAGE IN NEW ENGLAND If you are new to the dressage saddle or still developing a balanced effective seat, this program offers a systematic method to help you improve your seat as well as the effectiveness of your aids on the lunge-line. Here, you develop the balance, rhythm, and feel within the movement of the horse. Once you progress through the process of developing balance, the head instructor, staff and schoolmasters help you refine and reinforce your understanding. This valuable time on the lunge-line allows you to develop the ability to follow the movement of the horse without inhibiting it. Lessons off the lunge-line to continue to perfect both your position and your overall riding ability are also included. ACCOMMODATIONS & FOOD Accommodation consists of the onsite guesthouse. Some continental breakfast items are provided but lunch and dinner are NOT included in this trip. RIDE & HORSE DETAILS Horse Breeds: Majority are Lusitano. Trip Pace: To suit riders Tack: Dressage saddles Weight limit: 170 lbs INSTRUCTION & TRAINING INCLUDED Hours of Instruction: Typically two 45 min-1 hr group lessons per day Types of Instruction: Dressage Training, MEETING POINT: Merrimac www.horsebackmagazine.com www.horsebackmagazine.com

WYOMING WILDERNESS PACKTRIP A pack trip in Wyoming is a unique experience as you set off into the wilderness where you will be completely selfsufficient for six days thanks to the pack horses which carry all your food and gear. You will be riding through the more remote areas of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, following sparkling streams through grassy valleys surrounded by pine clad slopes up to the high mountain passes where they have their source. Each day has its own character; there are mountain meadows blue with lupine, sheer cliff faces and dramatic mountain peaks which change from grey to rose as the sun follows its course. Great herds of elk on their summer range can sometimes be spotted and you will become familiar with the ubiquitous grey Canada jay or â&#x20AC;&#x153;camp robberâ&#x20AC;?. There is a camaraderie that grows from sharing tales around the camp fire and an appreciation for a simpler way of life. Slowly you forget the pressures of civilization and achieve harmony with nature in a leisurely way which will restore your spirit. You will learn to appreciate your equine friends and bond with them as they carry you surefooted through this awe inspiring land. You may well be gone for a week on one of our pack trips without seeing another human. The first and last nights are spent at the Bitterroot Ranch, where you can leave any excess gear. The ranch borders the Shoshone National Forest and you will be riding in the wilderness two hours after departing. Bitterroot Ranch, owned and operated by Bayard, Richard, Hadley and Mel Fox, is permitted under a special use permit to operate in the Shoshone National Forest and is an equal opportunity service provider. RIDE & HORSE DETAILS Horse Breeds: Quarterhorse, Arabians Trip Pace: Slow Tack: Western Weight limit: 200 lbs MEETING POINT: At the ranch. Transportation from the Jackson Hole airport or the Riverton Airport can be easily arranged. May May2016 2016 2 2H HORSEBACK ORSEBACKM MAGAZINE AGAZINE

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WILLAMETTE COAST RIDE Enjoy all Oregon has to offer by horseback, complete with wine tastings and beach riding. During this riding tour in the Pacific Northwest you will stay in comfortable inns starting in the burgeoning wine country of Willamette Valley, and continue through the Coastal Range mountains to end on the coast of the Pacific Ocean. This is a point-to-point ride that has both adventure and luxury with wine tastings and riding through vineyards, ascending forested mountain trails, and galloping on the beach! The hosts and their horses provide a unique European feel while still maintaining the west coast sense of adventure. ACCOMMODATIONS & FOOD Exact accommodation may vary, but the first two nights are spent in McMinnville, the next two on the coast in Neskowin and the last two in Carlton. All accommodations are in inns, condos or bed & breakfasts. Breakfast is served in the generous hospitality of the accommodations, lunch is picnic style, and dinner at your dayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s destination. RIDE & HORSE DETAILS Overview: Horses are sturdy and talented trail horses and are well trained by your host. Equipment Required: Helmets are required. Horse Breeds: Connemara, Mustang, Cob, Thoroughbred, draft crosses Trip Pace: All paces Tack: English, with some Western saddles available Weight limit: 230 lbs ACTIVITIES FOR NON - RIDERS Wine tours, fishing, cycling, shopping, hiking, spa. MEETING POINT: Carlton, Oregon. The one hour transfer from Portland international airport (PDX) can be arranged at additional cost.

SUGARBUSH TOLT TREK Riding Icelandics through the lovely countryside of Vermontâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Green Mountains on the Sugarbush Tolt Trek is a very attractive prospect, especially for those who enjoy the smooth tolt of these well trained steeds. These stouthearted, good natured, powerful, little horses deserve their fame in the horse world, making this a particularly enjoyable horseback riding tour in Vermont. ACCOMMODATIONS & FOOD Clients will be staying in a lovely country inn with excellent cuisine. You will find the inn charming, with its own special characteristics, and the inn keepers warm and friendly. All rooms have private baths. RIDE & HORSE DETAILS Horse Breeds: Icelandic Trip Pace: slow to moderate Tack: Icelandic Weight limit: 225 lbs MEETING POINT: Waitsfield

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Equitours works to provide you with the perfect riding vacations, not just a ride that they can sell you. They will be there for you from the planning stage until you return from the ride. Equitours is more than a booking agent. They love, live, and breathe horses and travel. Your vacation is their passion. Visit their website and find your trip of a life time equitours.com or call 800-545-0019

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May 2016 2

HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 27

Tack Care...

Summer of our Content Horseback Magazine’s Saddle & Tack Editor

appears summer is upon us. As I write this near the end of April, it was 92 degrees today with a forecast of 63 for the low. Beautiful weather, and I’m determined this year to spend more time horseback, and less time worrying about other people’s problems. People will always have problems, and when I’m gone, I certainly won’t be able to help them, so I need to stop worrying so much, get over any idea of self-importance I may have, and enjoy my waning years. I still enjoy helping people who want to help themselves or their horses. Today, I did a saddle fitting for an older lady, who has not been able to ride her new horse because the saddle she bought hurt the horse. She had a local vet out, and the vet told her to call me. You know, I have ranted about poorly made import saddles from South of the Border, and also poorly designed saddles

28 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 2 May 2016

from Eastern countries, like India and Viet Nam. I have nothing against these countries, but the U.S. businesses that go there to have products made just because of cheap material and labor, are only doing it for their own bottom line. Most of them make a far larger percentage of profit, even if the price is cheaper, than the reliable counterparts that manufacture in the U.S. or Canada, using quality materials, parts and labor. The South of the Border saddle this lady was using was nice looking in a slightly garish way. Those not accustomed to seeing a beautifully hand tooled saddle made from good quality leather, with tight stitches, a deep hand rubbed finish, and thick, genuine sheep wool lining, would not recognize the lack of quality in the border saddle. The stitching in the seat was fancy, although asymmetrical, partly to disguise the lack of symmetry with the rest of the saddle. The stitches in the synthetic fleece were long and not set

into the leather, but resting on top of the leather. A good saddle will have a stitch line cut into the leather, and the stitches will be fine and tight in that line. A nice soft luster in the leather comes from oiling and hand polishing with waxes, either beeswax or others that are good on leather. A fake, lacquer kind of shine comes from spraying lacquer on the leather, which seals the leather so no oil can penetrate. The worst part of the South of the Border saddle, from a horse’s viewpoint, is the tree. Most border saddles made for export have trees made with used lumber, often from shipping pallets. The thicker parts of the pallets are not deep enough to cut a steep enough angle on either side of the gullet to get the proper angle for the bars of the tree, so they end up being too flat. This puts pressure on the horses back where the bars press in at the top, but do not distribute pressure the full width of the bar, from top to bottom. They tend to

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run too flat across the back of the horse over the kidneys, also. All in all, it’s very rare to find a South of the Border saddle that will fit any horse with any degree of comfort. I have to accept, there will always be swindlers, hustlers, fly by nights, etc., that only want your money. There will always be people that want to find a bargain, and think they can get out of paying top price for something really good. I also have to accept that people who want to do right cannot often find someone to lead them in the right direction. I believe the problem is getting worse, rather than better, and my shoveling of sand against the tide is just that. Part of the problem is, not everyone, as a matter of fact, few of us, can afford an expensive handmade saddle. Another problem is, saddle makers are not often educated in saddle fitting. You can put a beautifully handmade saddle that is really, really nice, but if it’s made on a tree with regular quarter horse bars, and your horse is wider or narrower than that, it is not www.horsebackmagazine.com

going to fit. If average would fit everyone, all men would wear a size 10D boot, women would wear a 7&1/2B. There are many of you reading this (I hope), that might work for. I wear an 11E or 11&1/2D boot. A 10 would make me miserable. If your horse has regular quarter horse withers, and you put full quarter horse bars on him, it’s like your size 10 foot wearing my 11&1/2 boot. Conversely if your horse needs an 11&1/2, and you try to squeeze him into a 10, how do you think he’ll like that? Well, I hope I have maybe explained this a little differently than in the past, so that you can understand that every horse is a little different, just like with people. When you buy boots, you should try them on. When you buy saddles, you should try them on. Use your eyes and use your judgement. If it fits, it will be comfortable; if it doesn’t, it won’t be. The angle of the tree should be the same as the angle of your horse’s shoulder. The real test is, after riding long enough to work up a sweat under the saddle, that

you have an even sweat pattern. Dry spots indicate pressure points where too much pressure is cutting off the circulation. Imagine that boot that is too tight, cutting off the blood flow to some part of your foot. Not very nice. We can all put up with a little discomfort for a time. If you can identify the area of discomfort and do something about it that is great. I’m going to be working on areas of my discomfort this summer, and I already know that I get too involved in other people’s problems. I want to ride, I want to relax, and I want to build a saddle for this incredibly odd shaped Polish Arab I am now riding so that he will be comfortable, happy, and willing to carry me many happy miles. Yeah, I know, I’m a glutton for punishment. I’ll try to help you with your saddle fitting problems, too.

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. May 2016 2

HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 29

Summer Health.. Detecting and Treating Caudal Heel Syndrome with Proper Trimming and Pour-in Pads

roper trimming is vital to horses’ overall health and quality of life. When hooves aren’t trimmed properly, horses distribute their weight unevenly, and land on their feet differently. This can cause horses to become lame. Often, farriers and veterinarians focus on trimming the toes more than the heels of a horse. When trimming, it’s important to tend to the entire foot, and not just one part, because it causes the foot to become uneven. Caudal Heel Syndrome, also known as Navicular Syndrome, commonly occurs because heels run too far forward due to lack of trimming. Caudal Heel Syndrome Symptoms When horses show signs of lameness, but the prognosis isn’t obvious, it is often diagnosed as Navicular Disease, a degenerative disease that affects the Navicular bone and surrounding tissue. More often than not, horses do not have the disease, but have Caudal Heel Syndrome, which can be treated with trimming and solar support products. There are many different causes of Caudal Heel Syndrome, and symptoms can be addressed to deter the condition from occurring. Below are just a few examples of some potential causes and symptoms: • Toes: Often times owners and farriers only focus on trimming the toes, and the heel grows forward towards the toe and underneath the foot. When this happens, the horse’s foot is not flat on the ground. • Long Heels: Heels grow at an angle. As seen in the image of the horse with the long toe, the angle continues under the foot because it is not trimmed. As the heel grows under the foot, it effects how the horse bears its weight. • Pinched Heels: If the heels are too far forward, the heels become pinched and contracted, causing the horse to bear all of its weight on its toes. If this is not treated in a timely manner, it can cause ligament injury. • Landing On Toes: When a horse is walking or trotting and only landing on its toes, it could indicate that its heels are sore.

30 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 2 May 2016

by Tab Pigg Managing Caudal Heel Syndrome Instead of assuming a horse has something as serious as Navicular Disease, it’s important to decipher what caused the lameness in the first place. Ask how often are the horse’s hooves being trimmed? Is the horse’s weight being distributed evenly when standing? Is the heel overgrown? A horse needs to distribute its weight evenly so that it can land on its feet without putting stress on the toes and pinching the heels. A farrier should be able to measure and decide if the heel is too long and trim the feet as needed. If the condition is more advanced or progresses further, modern techniques including nerve blocking, MRIs and x-rays can be used to decipher where the exact location of the pain is in the foot. When a horse is diagnosed with a Caudal Heel Syndrome, the first step is to trim the feet properly and control the pain. Next, apply pour-in pads to support to the hooves with Vettec Equi-Pak CS to engage the frog and heel again, and help the horse distribute its weight evenly across the entire hoof surface. The frog refers to the dark-colored soft tissue on the bottom side of the foot that is triangular in shape, and stretches from a horse’s heel to midway toward the toe. The frog is often contracted and lacks circulation when a horse has Caudal Heel Syndrome, so it’s important to reengage it. Equi-Pak CS is a fast-setting, soft pad material that is infused with copper sulfate to prevent bacteria from setting in. Because the frog is often sensitive after diagnosis, the copper sulfate formula helps serve as a preventative measure to keep the soft tissue healthy and infection-free. The feet are a major aspect of a horse’s overall health. If weight is not distributed evenly, it can cause injury and lameness, affecting a horse’s ability to do many day-to-day activities. With consistent and proper trimming regimens, a horse will be able to stand evenly and bear weight comfortably. It’s also important that a farrier is trimming the heels and toes equally to eliminate the chance of Caudal Heel Syndrome. Additionally, pour-in pads can provide additional support to maintain normal heel function.

More often than not, a horse does not have Navicular Disease and most likely has Caudal Heel Syndrome. Talk with your farrier or veterinarian about proper trimming and how pour-in pad materials can provide extra support and durable protection. www.horsebackmagazine.com

CAUDAL HEEL Cause Uneven loading of foot. Improper heel and toe placement. Effect Narrowing of heels and frogs, improper toe landing and lameness. Solution Trim to proper heel and toe ratio. Increase weight bearing surface of the foot by moving heels back and support the sole with a pour-in pad.

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Result Heel and toe ratio is in balance and the sole is supported. The heels are returned to their normal position and lameness is averted.

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HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 31

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Horsebites- Con’t. from pg. 18

Professional, an NRHA Judge and an NRHA show representative. As well, she is active in her local affiliate, the North Central Reining Horse Association (NCRHA). In addition to her contributions to the association, Diercks has had a successful show career with over $264,000 in NRHA Lifetime Earnings. Her list of accomplishments includes being a multiple NRHA Open Futurity Finalist, NRHA Derby Open Finalist and an NRBC Finalist. In addition, she has several National and World titles in the Morgan and Paint Horse associations as well as two US National Arabian Championships. Along with her own impressive list of accomplishments, she sets up her clients to be in the winner’s circle in both local and major competitions. NRHA Youth Coach of the Year Five-time World Champion Devin Warren has over 20 years’ experience as a horse trainer, breeder and showman. His dedication to “his clients, horses and family are unsurpassed,” which makes it no surprise that he has been selected as NRHA Youth Coach of the Year. Warren is active in his local affiliate, the Rocky Mountain Reining Horse Association (RMRHA) and has been on the board for six years. As well, he donates time to local 4H clubs and allows various groups to utilize his facilities. He’s also been known to reach out to up-and-coming trainers and “thinks of others before himself.” Based in Franktown, Colorado Warren has excelled both in the show pen and in teaching on the national level. Warren not only qualified for the Adequan® North American Affiliate Championships (NAAC) but also had numerous clients to qualify as well, which were just part of a number of successes during their 2015 show season. Warren is an APHA and AQHA member, has numerous APHA Reining Championships and has been an NRHA Derby finalist. In addition, his clientele have won an extensive amount of titles and he has coached youth riders who have later gone on to ride on National Collegiate Equestrian Association (NCEA) teams. NRHA Up-and-Coming Trainer of the Year An NRHA Top 20 Professional and a successful horse trainer and non pro coach, Mathieu Buton has several years of experience working with some of the best professionals in the industry including NRHA Three Million Dollar Rider Craig Schmersal and NRHA Million Dollar Rider Mike McEntire. The 34-year-old trainer piloted Ms Mercedes Whiz owned by Buton and his wife Angela, to a Level (L) 2 Open championship title at the 2015 NRHA Futurity along with a Reserve in L3 and placed ninth in the L4 Open division to bring home a paycheck of more than $54,000. Hailing from France, currently a Texas resident and active member of SWRHA, Buton has been making his presence known in the reining horse industry. He has been said to have a “unique ability to softly teach correctness to his horses as well as teaching his students to understand not only the how but also the why.” Horsebites- Con’t. on pg. 40

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May 2016 2

HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 33

Summer Health..

Summer Health Tips Large Animal Health in Summer Temperatures: Our cats and dogs aren’t the only animals that need special attention during the unbearable summer temperatures; horses and other large animals get hot too! Though they may not express it in the same way as our domestic pets, heatstroke is still common among large animals, and prevention is the best cure. “The important things to consider during summer heat for animals are similar as for humans,” said Dr. Leslie Easterwood, assistant clinical professor at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences (CVM). “It is best to provide clean, fresh water at a rate higher than they would be losing due to sweat.” The progression from dehydration to heat exhaustion and ultimately heat stroke can occur rapidly. Providing your large animals with access to plenty of water and shade is the most important way to keep their body temperatures under control. Just as with humans and other animals, the higher the temperature or activity level, the more water is required to cool the body. “Most horses will consume between 5 and 10 gallons of water

34 34 H HORSEBACK ORSEBACK M MAGAZINE AGAZINE 2 2 May May 2016 2016

per day, and their daily requirement for maintenance is approximately 6 gallons for a 1000-pound horse,” said Dr. Easterwood. “They will need more if they are exercising or if their housing conditions do not provide for shade or circulation of fresh air.” Horses that are not sweating and are overheating can easily have their body temperatures rise to dangerous levels within minutes of exercising in the summer, and their large muscle mass allows them to generate a tremendous amount of heat, making them susceptible to a loss of water and electrolytes through sweat. As the amount of sweat increases, so does the imbalance of body fluids and electrolytes. “The only increased nutritional requirements for hot weather would be the intake of electrolytes,” said Dr. Easterwood. “Large animals that have access to mineral supplements will generally take in enough electrolytes to account for normal losses, but electrolytes can be added to their daily grain ration if the horse will be sweating excessively or exercising.” Since horses cannot tell us directly that they are overheated, we must pay attention to their appearance and behavior in order to distinguish their discomfort. Some signs to look out for are an excessive amount or absence of sweating, increased respiratory rate,

depression, lack of appetite, apparent weakness, or disorientation. “Horses that are not sweating adequately will start to breathe rapidly in order to try to cool themselves via their respiratory system” said Dr. Easterwood. “This condition is called anyhdrosis and can cause them to overheat while exercising.” She explains that these horses are literally trying to ‘blow off steam’ and cool themselves by taking in air that is cooler than their own body temperature while blowing out the warmer air. While most horses and other large animals are able to cool themselves by sweating, taking in an adequate amount of water, and staying in the shade, you should still keep an eye out for signs of dehydration or heat exhaustion. Whether your pet whinnies or bleats, barks or purrs, they are counting on you to keep them healthy and comfortable during these hot summer months. Horses and Thunderstorms: Severe weather can be a troubling event, especially when there are animals whose welfare and comfort is of concern as well. Small pets can usually take cover with their owners, but what precautions can an owner take for larger animals such as horses? “The first step in protecting your horses and other livestock from severe weather is to realize what the severe weather risks are in your area,” says Dr. Brandon Dominguez, clinical assistant professor at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM) & Biomedical Sciences and member of the CVM Veterinary Emergency Team. “For many areas, springtime brings threats of severe thunderstorms, www.horsebackmagazine.com www.horsebackmagazine.com

for Your Horse

lightning, flash floods, and tornadoes.” Often owners like to keep horses stalled in a barn to protect them from lightning during a storm, but giving them the ability to travel could keep them safer. “Generally, if horses are in a pasture with trees or near a lightning rod, the risk of the horse being struck is greatly diminished. A three-sided shelter can help to keep them warm and dry during a storm in addition to shielding them from lightning strikes,” says Dominguez. Dominguez believes that when storms become more severe, to possibly include tornadoes or high gusts of winds, horses are even safer outside of their stalls. “It is wise to keep barnyards and pastures clear of debris before storms are due to strike. If a tornado were to hit a barn with horses secured in stalls, the likelihood and severity of being hit by debris would be considerably increased,” says Dominguez. True, horses in pasture may not www.horsebackmagazine.com www.horsebackmagazine.com

escape completely unscathed, but the cuts and contusions are usually less significant. With torrential rainfall, flooding, and particularly flash flooding, if horses are given the opportunity to move to higher ground away from danger, they will follow their natural instinct for survival. Flash flooding, if injury or obstacles prevent horses from escaping, can lead to a horse being swept downstream and potentially drowning. “Less harsh, but just as serious, are the consequences of standing in perpetually flooded pastures. The chronic exposure to moisture could lead to softening of the hoof and sole leaving a horse susceptible to stone bruises, sole abscesses, white line disease, and infection such as thrush,” says Dominguez. Dominguez explains that rapid drying may cause hooves to crack

and become brittle, but keeping feet cleaned and picked out and applying hoof conditioners will help minimize the harm from flood waters. Additionally, flooding may cause toxins to spread from storage areas to pastures where horses are gathered exposing them to contaminants that they would not ordinarily contact. “The most ideal confinement during severe weather would be a large pasture with a three-sided shelter to protect animals from the elements, but that also allows them to escape from danger. Not being in the lowest portion of the field, but in the vicinity of trees or a lightning rod is also advantageous,” says Dominguez. With the variety of horseowners, horse-properties, and horses, planning before severe weather occurs should take into consideration the ability to keep everybody safe.

Summer Health - Con’t. on pg. 38 May May 2016 2016 2 2H HORSEBACK ORSEBACK M MAGAZINE AGAZINE

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Gentleman's ranch on 30+ acres with panoramic views of the wide open Texas skies includesa custom limestone home, a six stall barn and an additional barn with turn outs, lighted roping arena with 14,000 watts of lighting, a koi pond with waterfall and two large property ponds. Limestone home features Versailles pattern travertine ooring, a vaulted great room with massive wood ceiling beams & a oor to ceiling stone replace

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Stunning Custom Home on 8 acres in River Park Ranch with a 100' X 150' Rigid Bldg Systems covered arena with built up arena pad; 10 stall insulated Barnmaster barn with 12' concrete aisle, auto waterers, y system, hot h20, wash rm & enclosed tack. Fenced and cross fenced. Home features interior Chicago brick walls; a library/oďŹ&#x192;ce; spacious chef's kitchen with custom cabinets & a large granite island with seating, wine frig as well as gas & elec ovens. Huge master suite w double French doors open to terrace. Apartment over the 3 car detached garage with kitchen & game room.

Just south of Navasota is this lovely 35 Acre ranch with custom limestone one story home with pool & hot tub, 6 stall barn with tack room, wash rack & equipment storage. The stallS open up into turnouts that also open into one of the three pastures with round pen. Fenced & cross fenced with pond & custom iron gate, the property currently produces hay & is AG exempt. The home features a private oďŹ&#x192;ce with french doors, an open plan with split bedrooms, limestone replace in a vaulted, wood beamed ceiling living room, a granite kitchen with large breakfast/serving bar.

Wonderful 33-acre property in Hempstead. All new construction. 122x36-foot barn with 16 stalls, radiant barrier insulation, air conditioning, automatic waterers, bathroom, vet room, tack room, saddle wall, rotating tie ring, pasture feeders, wash rack and insemination/palpation chute and porches. 130x70 arena and round pen with water. Property has been cleared. Newly fenced and cross-fenced. Three bed, two bath manufactured home - perfect to live in while you are building your custom home & then use as a guest house. New well & septic. Mosquito mist system.

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May 2016 2

HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 37

Summer Health.. Summer Health - Con’t. from pg. 35

Mays. “The cells that respond to the injured tissue do so to increase blood flow which facilitates clean up and repair of the wound. This extra flow of blood brings swelling, redness and heat to the injured area. Therefore, inflammation should be controlled but not

Topical Wound Care for Horses Sooner or later, it’s bound to happen. Your horse comes in with a wound that needs attention. Do you know the best first aid for your horse’s needs? “A wound to your horse’s body can take the form of an abrasion, puncture or full thickness skin cut,” notes Dr. Glennon Mays, clinical associate professor at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences. “The body has its own marvelous mechanisms for healing injured tissue,” states Mays. “Following the trauma, the body sends white blood cells to the injured site to clean up the damaged cells and fight infection. These white blood cells rid the wound of dead cells and bacteria. This expelling of non-viable cells can be seen as either a clear or slightly yellow discharge.” The first thought at the sight of this oozing is to dry it up, however, the white blood cells need moisture to continue their healing work, explains Mays. If additional moisture is needed, an antibiotic topical ointment can be applied. “The body also responds to the wound with inflammation,” notes

38 MAGAZINE 2 May 2016 38 HHORSEBACK ORSEBACK MAGAZINE 2 May 2016

suppressed.” The body continues to remove contaminants while there is inflammation, explains Mays. As decontamination continues, cells that produce repair material move into the wound area. Then granulation tissue forms. Excessive granulation can result in “proud flesh” when the new tissue extends beyond the surface of the wound margins. Moisture does stimulate granulation and excessive moisture often results in “proud flesh” which prohibits continuation of the healing process. If the wound appears to have excessive granulation tissue, the aid of veterinary care is often needed. “Wound treatment may include a combination of antibiotics to control infection, anti-inflammatory injections for pain management and ointments for wound medication,” notes Mays. In treating any wound, the first step should be to clean the injured flesh, states Mays. Flushing the wound with water or saline solution will help remove dirt and bacteria from the cut. Saline solution can be made by dissolving two tablespoons of table salt in one gallon of distilled water. Wounds that are exceptionally dirty may need

an antimicrobial wash which contains iodine. This wash will kill surface bacteria while cleansing the wound. “Call your veterinarian if the wound is over a joint, involves bone/ ligaments or pulls apart when your horse moves,” explains Mays. “A wound to your horse’s leg, especially near a joint where there is motion, should be referred to your veterinarian. If your horse receives a belowthe-knee leg wound, it is best to seek medical assistance since leg tissue mass is limited and there can be contamination from dirt.” Bandaging may not be necessary for some cuts and abrasions. However, leg wounds may need bandaging to reduce dirt contamination and skin motion so that healing can occur, notes Mays. A bandage keeps topical medication on the wound. Also, the light pressure of the bandage suppresses excess outgrowth of skin and promotes less scaring. Small wounds may go undetected, cautions Mays. They may not be seen before contamination and infection occur. Since tetanus is always a threat, be sure that your horse receives a tetanus vaccination and stays current. Horses are prone to injury. Knowing basic first aid treatments for healing their wounds will allow you to assess the situation and determine the best treatment for your horse. The right medication administered at the proper time by the proper person can facilitate the natural healing process of your horse’s body. Pet Talk is a service of the College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University. Stories can be viewed on the Web at vetmed.tamu.edu/news/pet-talk. Suggestions for future topics may be directed to editor@cvm.tamu.edu. www.horsebackmagazine.com www.horsebackmagazine.com

HILL COUNTRY EQUESTRIAN ESTATE T hi s Hi l l C o u nt r y e s t at e i s l o c at e d j u s t 1 5 mi nu t e s f ro m d o w nt o w n B o e r n e , Te x a s . 5 0 ± a c re s o f b e au t i f u l l y m ai nt ai n e d g ro u n d s c o v e re d i n o a k t re e s s u r ro u n d t hi s e s t at e w i t h a p r i v at e g at e d e nt ran c e . T h e m ai n h o u s e c o n s i s t s o f a p p rox i m at el y 6 , 5 0 0 ± s q u are f e e t o f ai r- c o n d i t i o n e d s p a c e w i t h e n o r m o u s c o v e re d p o rc h e s a l l o w i n g a c c e s s t o t h e p o o l an d o u t d o o r ki t c h e n . T h e p ro p e r t y o f f e r s a 1 2 - s t a l l h o r s e b ar n c o mp l e t e w i t h an a p ar t m e nt , t a c k an d f e e d ro o m s . A l ar g e 2 0 0 x 3 0 0 f o o t l i g ht e d r i d i n g an d ro p i n g are n a i s c o nv e ni e nt l y l o c at e d n e ar t h e b ar n an d h o r s e w a l k e r, p l u s t h e re are p l e nt y o f c o v e re d p ar ki n g are a s f o r t rai l e r s .

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General...

Heritage! Howdy!

Welcome to Cowboy Corner.

hile the Brazos Bottom was drying out after the record rain during the third week of April I was attending a reunion at Texas Tech University in Lubbock. Always a treat to visit my alma mater and visit with the ol’ hands. Have reached the time in life when all the ol’ hands are headed for the last roundup. Some are already there and others are close. Hope to ride drag and be the drover that shuts the gate. During my reunion trip had the time to visit the National Ranching Heritage Center at Texas Tech University. The center was established at Tech after I had graduated, however an instructor of mine was the first center director. Visited the center during reunion trips in the past, but my last visit was probably twenty years ago. Folks interested in ranching and Texas history should make a special effort to visit the center. The center has a 1.5 mile trail of structures representing the history of ranching from 1780’s to 1950’s. Lots of the big ranches in Texas have contributed to the Heritage Center and helped to preserve the history of our great state. As I walked the trail viewing the various structures, the take home message is that these folks were tough. The early buildings were constructed of materials on hand, mud bricks, rock, and dugout into the side of a hill. Timber and lumber were scarce and only really became available af-

42 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 2 May 2016

ter the railroads came to West Texas. In addition to living quarters the exhibit includes out buildings such as smoke houses, blacksmith shops, barns, offices, and cook houses. These structures were of wood along with houses build in the same era. Was especially interested in the cattle pens and the progression of changes from driving cattle, to driving cattle to the rail head, to using trucks for transport from the ranch. Really enjoyed the rail shipping pens where cattle were loaded on to rail cattle cars and shipped often times to the Fort Worth Stockyards. Saw my first double decker rail cattle car at the center. The second floor was adjustable in the car, and used for calves, sheep, and goats. Remember when cattle trailers for eighteen wheelers went from a flat deck to double deck or pot belly, but had never seen a double deck rail car. Pens for rail shipment and trucking are different primarily in the loading area because rail cattle cars are higher off the ground. Also many truck loading ramps are adjustable for the different height off the ground of truck trailers. The rail cars loading ramps have a flat area at the top the same height as the

car. Cattle load easier if they don’t have to jump up into a trailer, or jump down to load. These cattle pens are a real lesson in “hell for stout” as my ol’ high school ag teacher used to say. The railroads had plenty of lumber and timber and made pens to last, no slacking on “stout.” Next great area of interest at the center was the windmills. Windmills changed the ranching business forever, because water is the limiting factor to agriculture yesterday, today and tomorrow. Windmills in West Texas are characterized by deep holes, tall towers, and big blades and wheels. The rule of thumb used to be that cattle won’t graze more than a mile from water, so a mile north, south, east, and west is almost four sections. At a stocking rate of 20 to 25 cows per section, the big ranches had lots of windmills. As you travel around our great state, and want to see some great history, visit the National Ranching Heritage Center, at Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas.

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