Horseback Magazine May 2015

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May 2015 2

HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 3

AN-49f (0113)

FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK Let’s talk about Tom Cats & Ice Cream!

A

pril saw two of our Texas’ friends, Blue Bell Creameries, and Washington Animal Clinic in Brenham make the national news.

I am sure that by now most of you know the infamous story of WAC’s employee Kirsten Lindsey’s posting on Facebook of her killing what she thought of as a feral tomcat by an arrow

By Vicki Long and bragging about it. And I do mean infamous, heck it even was published in the periodical, Pakistan Today. The image horrified animal lovers and the outrage on social media was enormous. Kristen is a veterinarian who took an oath to do no harm to domestic animals.

What troubled us here at Horseback were the comments calling for Washington Animal Clinic to be shut down - to close a practice that does so much good, relieves so much suffering of animals in the Texas heartland. This we found grossly unfair and shortsighted since we know this clinic and have many friends who have trusted in the vets there to care for their critters for many years. A company cannot be condemned for the stupidity of what a single employee posts on their own private social media page. In our opinion too many were quick to assign blame where it was not due. WAC did the right thing and fired Dr. Lindsey, saying:

“Please know that when informed of this we responded swiftly and appropriately and please do not impute this awful conduct to the Washington Animal Clinic or any of its personnel.”

We believe their statement; “We are absolutely appalled, shocked, upset, and disgusted by the conduct”, We know personally many of their long time patients who have nothing but love and respect for the staff.

Now on to another Washington County story which saddened us here at Horseback.

There is probably not a more beloved company in Texas than century-old Blue Bell Creameries. Horseback is joining the Brenham community and are praying for their speedy recovery from the listeria outbreak that forced the plant to shut down. Saturday April 25 saw 200 supporters come out for a prayer vigil for the company. We’re certain ice cream hungry Texans are praying along with both them, and us.

As longtime ex-CEO Howard Kruse told the crowd “I can assure you that this situation, whatever is the problem, will be solved.,” Blue Bell states on their website: “We’re committed to doing the 100 percent right thing, and the best way to do that is to take all of our products off the market until we can be confident that they are all safe,” Current C.E.O. Paul Kruse said, “We are heartbroken about this situation and apologize to all of our loyal Blue Bell fans and customers. Our entire history has been about making the very best and highest quality ice cream and we intend to fix this problem. We want enjoying our ice cream to be a source of joy and pleasure, never a cause for concern, so we are committed to getting this right.”

I just hope it happens soon. Almost every night I would have a bowl of my favorite brand before bed. I’m not sleeping as well. Hurry back Blue Bell, I need my beauty sleep!

On the Cover:

Wild Mustangs can teach us about forage.

4 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 2 May 2015

May 2015

Cover Story: 14 Lessons From The Wild - Jill Willis 24 Correct Way to use Slow Feeders - Juliet Getty Ph.D.

Lifestyle & Real Estate: 22 38 46 50

Metal Barn Showcase Successful Spring Turnout - Purina Realtor Roundup My Granddaughter & I - Jennifer Wenzel & Lewis Baber

Columns: 8 Horse Bites 10 Emotional Fitness, Part II - Linda Parelli 12 Ride-N-Sync™ - Terry Myers 30 Tack Talk - Lew Pewterbaugh 32 On the English Front - Cathy Strobel 34 The Cowboy Way - Corey Johnson 40 Hoof N’ Horse - Jaime Jackson 54 Cowboy Corner - Jim Hubbard

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Staff PUBLISHER Vicki Long

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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Jim Hubbard, Steven Long, Vicki Long, Roni Norquist, Linda Parelli, Kelsey Hellmann, Lew Pewterbaugh, Cathy Strobel, Cory Johnson, Margaret Pirtle, Jaime Jackson Volume 22, No. 5 Horseback Magazine, P.O. Box 681397, Houston, TX 77268-1397, (281) 447-0772. The entire contents of the magazine are copyrighted May 2015 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.

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HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 5

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May 2015 2

HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 7

Interagro Lusitanos’ Vade-Mecum Stars in DSharp’s Music Video Wellington, FL– Interagro Lusitanos’ Vade-Mecum was featured in a recent music video with international musician and classically trained violinist DSharp.

The 13-year-old Grand Prix gelding from the Xique-Xique and Yacht lines (Noblissimo Interagro-Pecunia Interagro, Yacht) was ever the professional, acting cool and calm in the midst of lights, cameras, and live music.

The music video was taped at Grand Prix dressage rider Caroline Roffman’s beautiful Lionshare Dressage in Wellington, Florida. As expected, Vade-Mecum acted like a true star and was unfazed with a film crew from Afflux Studios, the lights and cameras,

including winning the Grand Prix Freestyle at the Palm Beach Dres“Horse Bites is compiled from Press Releases sent to Horseback sage Derby National competition.

After leaving Florida, Aragão and her Magazine. Original reporting is done as circumstances warrant. mounts returned to Brazil to compete Content is edited for length & style.” and train in preparation for the selection trials for the 2015 Pan American Games. and a cadre of equipment. Interagro

Meanwhile, Vade-Mecum Lusitanos are known for their willing, Interagro stayed in the U.S. after comcalm disposition, making Vade-Mepleting his video debut and enjoying cum a natural for the part in DSharp his time as a celebrity. He is now being and Caroline Roffman’s music video offered for sale. Vade-Mecum is a star collaboration. Interagro horses have in the show ring as well, with top scores been featured in TV commercials, in the Grand Prix. This talented Lubooks, and more than 21 covers of sitano will soon be the star in his lucky international magazines, but this was new owner’s show! Persons interested the first music video featuring an in Vade- Mecum Interagro can contact Interagro horse. www.lionsharedressage.com. Also visit

Vade-Mecum Interagro was http://lusitano-interagro.com/Vade_ one of three Lusitanos to come to Mecum2010.htm, to see Vade-Mecum the U.S. this year from the Interagro Interagro’s impressive show record and Lusitanos. Grand Prix dressage rider lineage.

Pia Aragão brought two other Inter Interagro Lusitanos, located agro Lusitanos to South Florida from in Itipira, Brazil, is the world’s largest Brazil to give them experience in the international arena at the 2015 Adequan breeder of Lusitano horses and boasts 40 years of experience in producing Global Dressage Festival. She enjoyed a successful season in Wellington, Florida. elite Lusitanos. The versatile horses excel in a variety of disciplines, including Aragão and Baldor Interagro, a 9-yearold Lusitano stallion, excelled in compe- dressage, carriage driving and working equitation. Interagro Lusitanos’ comtition during the show series in Welbination of beauty, temperament, and lington, Florida, and held up the now desire to please make them a pleasure 2-year tradition of having an Interagro to train and ride in any sport.

Lusitano competing in the Nation’s About Interagro Lusitanos Cup competition held at the Adequan

Founded in 1975 by Dr. Paulo Global Dressage Festival. With ZepeGavião Gonzaga to preserve the breed, lim Interagro, Aragão claimed multiple Interagro Lusitanos is the world’s largGrand Prix wins during the season, est breeder and exporter of Lusitano horses. Dr. Gonzaga started with four mares and one stallion imported to Brazil from the breed’s native Portugal; to date more than 450 horses populate the 1200-acre ranch outside São Paulo.

Today, Cecilia Gonzaga manages the farm and operations. To learn more, email interagro@interagro.com, or please visit www.interagro.com.br

A NEW CALL TO THE NATION FROM THE ALAMO

By Ramona Bass

DSharp and Vade-Mecum of Interagro Lusitanos enjoy the music while taping a music video at Caroline Roffman’s Lionshare Dressage in Wellington, Florida

179 years ago, Col. William Barret Travis’ famous “Victory or Death” letter — written during the 1836 siege of the Alamo — stirred the hearts of a nation.

“To the People of Texas & all Americans in the World,” Travis wrote, “I am besieged ... I have sustained a Horsebites - Con’t. on pg. 29

8 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 2 May 2015

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May 2015 2

HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 9

Emotional Fitness For Your Horse: Part 2

By Linda Parelli

In

Part 1 of this article series, we covered the importance of correctly interpreting your horse’s body language, along with natural triggers that can result in fear, tension, and frustration. Here, we pick up with a look at effective strategies for bringing out the best in your horse.

Emotion

Don’t

Do

Fear

• • • •

• Disengage the hindquarters using one rein (get control) • Dismount • Give him a task, like putting his foot on something • Ride forward in tiny circles until the horse slows down of his own accord

Tension

• Continue training • Ignore the horse’s tension

• • • •

Slow down and make things easier for the horse Give frequent and/or longer breaks Be more patient and consistent Make sure you ride ‘forward’ instead of holding the horse back

Frustration

• Apply more pressure • Keep using boring training drills

• • • •

Give more release Use Zero Brace Improve your feel and timing Do away with restrictive equipment

Pull back on both reins Get angry or emotional Punish the horse Jerk on the reins

NOTE: From a Horsenality perspective, tension tends to be more of a right-brained issue, while frustration is more a left-brained issue. This is not a rule, but Horsenality is a strong predictor.

EXERCISING YOUR HORSE’S EMOTIONS Rather than doing whatever it takes to avoid stirring your horse’s emotions, you need to exercise them!

It’s important to think about what a horse needs in order to be more emotionally fit, more balanced, and a little ‘tougher’ and less reactive.

Pent-up energy is the biggest enemy. The more we suppress horses, the more reactive they become.

Put yourself in the horse’s position for a moment and you’ll start to understand what I mean.

10 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 2 May 2015

Most horses are: • Kept in a stable, pen or pasture.

• Kept by themselves, isolated from others. Horses are herd animals and they have a strong need to pair-bond. They can bond with humans too, which is something to take advantage of.

• Held tight when they are afraid and need to escape.

Below are just a couple examples of exercises that will help us play with horses in a way that feels natural

for them, enhances their ‘unnatural’ living environment, and fulfills their mental, emotional and physical needs.

• Play the Parelli Seven Games.

They give you a language that is natural for your horse, because horses play these same games with each other to communicate and establish dominance in the herd. They help horses understand more clearly what you are asking them to do, because every maneuver you want to train your horse to do has its roots in one or more of the Seven Games. www.horsebackmagazine.com

• Not only is this like talking to a foreign person in their native language – making them feel more comfortable and connected – but it also enables you to give your horse the mental stimulation that he gets when playing with other horses. It also develops his brain. As the horse gets smarter and learns how to solve the puzzles you give him, he also becomes more self-confident.

• Exercise his emotions. Bring up your horse’s physical energy on purpose… and do it regularly! Many riders are afraid to gallop their horses, or to trot and canter strongly forward on a loose rein, but horses need this. If you can’t do it in the saddle, you need to do it from the ground. This is why we teach you to use longer lines (22-foot and 45-foot) so you can get your horse to really move out.

If horses don’t get to run on a regular basis, they become more emotionwww.horsebackmagazine.com

ally fragile and cannot handle higher levels of energy – in themselves, in you, or their surroundings. You want your horses to be able to use high energy and then calm down quickly, and this can only happen when they get accustomed to that feeling. The more you handle your horses with kid-gloves, the more emotionally unfit they become.

Here’s a good exercise on the ground, preferably on a 45-foot Line: Ask your horse to gallop for a lap, and then wait for him to slow down into a canter or trot for a couple of laps, then ask him to gallop again. Repeat this three or four times in one session, and then make sure you do this at least two to three times a week. At first, your horse might get really stirred up, but pretty soon he’ll be able to gallop without getting scared. That’s the goal.

You’ll be amazed at how this helps a horse become less spooky and reactive, mainly because they get the emotional exercise they need.

When riding, use loose reins (FreeStyle) and get your horse to trot as

fast as he can for several laps of the arena, until he starts to stretch his neck and back, and it is his idea to slow down. You should be able to make downward transitions on loose reins. You can also do this at the canter; just do the same thing, nice and freely forward. Not only will this help your horse become more emotionally fit, it will also encourage him to use his body better, and loosen up his shoulders, hips and back. Of course this takes a lot of confidence from the rider, so make sure you are up to it and have done the ground exercises a few times before trying it when riding.

Remember, as a prey animal, the horse will tend to associate high energy with fear. By exercising your horse’s emotions on the ground and/or riding, you will help develop a more mentally, emotionally and physically fit partner. He will become less spooky and impulsive, will move more freely forward, and will become more naturally fulfilled in his partnership with you.

May 2015 2

HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 11

Training Tips..

Rider Body Position Do You Have a “Fat” Head?

I’m

not calling you a “fat” head, but your head controls on average 60% of your body weight. If your head is out of position, it can put you out of position and throw your horse out of balance.

I’ll explain…the rider’s eyes should be focused ahead looking between the horse’s ears, with the head up, not looking down. If the rider tips the head forward, it will distribute the rider’s weight forward and the horse will be heavier on their forehand. You have probably noticed that I frequently refer to a horse as being heavy on the forehand. The reason we discuss the heavy forehand is because most lameness problems are in a horse’s front end and may be caused by the rider’s incorrect position. The heavier the horse is in the forehand, the more concussion the horse’s front legs and hooves will absorb. Over a period of time, this wear and tear may cause the horse to have lameness issues. With the tipping of the head forward, the rider’s shoulders will move slightly in front of the triangle which the horse can feel.

(For a review of the triangle, the Dancing With Your Horse article). Tipping the head forward will also cause a chain reaction to the rider’s seat. The pelvis will roll slightly forward impeding forward movement of the horse.

If the rider tips the head to the left while moving counter clockwise in the ring, the left shoulder will drop

12 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 2 May 2015

down. Most riders tip their head to one side in order to look down at their horse’s nose. I have been riding horses for over 50 years and have never seen a horse’s nose fall off, so you really don’t need to watch the nose, it’s attached and not going to fall off! When the rider looks at the horse’s nose and tips the head down and to the left, the rider’s left should will dip and their hip will slide to the right. As soon as the rider’s hip slides to the right, it will cause the horse to invert his bend.

When a horse is traveling, his body should have a slight arc, especially when traveling in a circle or bending line. The horse’s bend is inverted when the head is tipped (nose to the outside of your

circle) and the hip slides inward. The horse will be out of balance, heavy in the front end and jabbing with the front leg where the rider’s weight is the heaviest.

The balanced position is for the rider to keep his face straight, while looking over the horse’s poll, between their ears. If the rider needs to look down, the eyes can look down but the head should remain straight.

Not convinced? Try this exercise; sit on a stool or better yet, on an exercise ball. Sit with a straight back and hips slightly tucked under to “sit on your pockets.” Now look down and feel what happens to your body. You will feel you body move forward as you look down.

Tilt your head to the right and left and feel what happens to your shoulders

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and hips. Guess what, your horse feels all of that shifting of weight. The biggest temptation people have is leaning forward and looking down when they queue for a canter/lope departure. Doing so makes your horse’s job very difficult. Learn to look between their ears and feel the departure into the canter.

You should be able to feel if your horse is on the correct lead without looking down.

Riders are generally not aware of how often they tip their head and look

down. Ask a friend to watch you ride and let you know every time you tip your head. Then switch positions with your friend and watch at the difference in your horse’s movement based on the position of the rider’s head. Pay attention to this detail and watch as your horse continues to improve. Think about it, don’t let that 60% of your body weight put your horse out of balance. Don’t be a fat head!

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 services/products available, visit Myers at www.tmtrainingcenter.com and on Facebook.

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HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 13

by Jill Willis

Lessons from the Wild

NATURAL HORSE CARE

Here at “Feed Station #5” inside the ‘Paddock Paradise’ where my herd of 5 lives at the AANHCP field headquarters, Apollo demonstrates the same ‘biting’ action to grab the hay as he would if he were biting a growing plant or blade of grass. Sometimes the hay is pulled with their lips and sometimes with their teeth which is how they would eat in a natural setting as well. The ‘small hole hay nets’ should always be hung low enough for the horse’s mouths to reach them from a natural standing position -- and should not be placed up high in trees.

Photo was taken on April 11, 2015, 10 days before Apollo’s 28th birthday!

J

ust like every other species on the planet, horses have their own optimal, natural habitat, natural diet, lifestyle and instincts or behaviors. Unfortunately, the most critical needs of the species remain largely ignored by the equine industry even though most equine researchers agree that the standard way we feed them, what we feed them and how we house them are detrimental to their health.

Even zoos have been increasingly making changes to accommodate the needs of the species they exhibit by simulating their native habitat and incorporating elements of their natural world that are essential to their health. And so, it would seem to be a logical step for the equine industry to follow suit—and use what we know to be true about the healthy, fit and sound free-roaming horses living naturally in the U.S. Great Basin— and make changes in our standards for domestic horse care.

Looking to these wild horses is exactly what a small but growing number of horse owners around the world are doing thanks to the burgeoning popularity of natural horse care (NHC), a concept that grew out

14 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 2 May 2015

of the pages of the 1992 release of “The Natural Horse: Lessons from the Wild” by Jaime Jackson. His advice to horse owners was to “tear down the stalls, let the horses run about and mingle, contour the pastures to create hills and spread rocks of all sizes and shapes throughout their environment.” His reason for making such seemingly radical suggestions was simple. That’s how they live in the wild—where they are healthy and sound. Unfortunately, the opposite of how they live in the wild is the current standard for horse husbandry.

A great number of articles written in the past 15 years on colic, ulcers and laminitis horses include comments that suggest how much better off horses would be IF ONLY they could live in a more natural manner. Some of these published studies even include comments acknowledging that many of their health problems are a result of modern horse care methods but, incredulously, also state it is not practical or economical to change.

The specific practices repeatedly named as responsible for causing most health problems are: keeping horses in close confinement (stalls www.horsebackmagazine.com

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HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 15

or small paddocks) with little or no ing in their system to break down, ‘free’ turnout time; feeding large the acids eat away at the GI lining meals and gastric ulcers followed lesions de“Confined horses tend to display and by perivelop. Most vets undesirable behaviors and are more at seem to agree that ods of fasting; gasrisk of developing intestinal and/or ulcers—both and, for tric and colonic— musculoskeletal problem.” those are an ‘induced Nancy S. Loving, Equine DVM horses condition’ that can lucky be reversible if the enough animals are to eat “There is more grass growing on the and digest more to have pasture As well, paper I (use to) write this report than naturally. turnout, ulcers create ‘opcould b e found on 100 acres of their portunistic condip r o viding tions’ for a number natural habitat.” t h e m of types of colic, Ric Redden, Equine DVM with acwhich is the numcess to ber one cause of the wrong kind of forage—lush, death to horses—followed by lamicultivated pasture comprised of nitis. When domestic horses are grasses grown to fatten livestock allowed to eat in a way that mimor increase milk production in dairy ics horses in the wild, the risk of cattle. laminitis, ulcers and colic virtually

It is well known that horses disappears. evolved as nomadic, foraging and Although it would seem grazing animals or trickle feeders; that knowing what causes these their gastrointestinal (GI) systems debilitating and life-threatening are uniquely designed to process conditions would lead to advosmall amounts of plant roughage cating for changes in the way we on a continuous basis. Horses manage these animals, this is not secrete digestive acids continu- necessarily the case in many inously but only secrete saliva, the stances. Those veterinarians and best buffer to neutralize the acid, other equine professionals advowhen chewing. If there is noth- cating for changes in manage-

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ment methods are still the minority.

Instead, the research community seems more intent on seeking new ways to treat the symptoms as reflected by this statement that was included in one study on ulcers and colic: “Since it would be difficult if not impossible for many horsemen to change, researchers are trying to find ways to work around these issues.”

NHC advocates, like me, perceive that attitude as no different from someone hitting himself in the head with a hammer while simultaneously seeking a stronger, faster-acting pain relief medication.

Our advice: put down the hammer and your problem will be solved.

Fortunately, there is a consensus on the importance of movement. In fact, topping most lists for colic prevention are getting horses out of their stalls along with providing them with constant access to the right kind of forage.

Horses in the wild move, on average, 25 miles per day but far too many live in 24 hours a day in spaces no larger than 12 feet wide by 12 feet long. “Horses need to move,” writes Dr. Juliet Getty, DVM. “Trapped … the stress takes its toll on their immune system and hormonal responses, leading to a vast variety of health Wild Ones - Con’t. on pg. 18

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Hay Nets - Con’t. from pg. 16

little exercise and eat a diet rich in sugar and carbohydrates.

What we know to be true because of Dr. Pollitt’s research, is that with enough saturation of plant fructans and sugars in the hindgut, laminitis in horses could be induced 100 percent of the time. Laminitis is a complicated condition involving numerous internal systems in the horse. It is

Three of my five horses moving along their track on the way to one of five ‘feed stations’ positioned outside the pasture. Note the grass is fenced off although they still have access to a lot of plant life growing on the hillside. Of note, the bay gelding (then 17 years old) in the lead at right was diagnosed with acute (grassinduced) laminitis in 2005. Traditionally known as ‘foundering,’ laminitis is not simply a ‘disease’ of the foot! It is entirely preventable when we feed and manage our horses using the ‘wild horse model.’ Natural horse care practices were implemented and he is more fit, sound and healthy than ever. Note the great condition of all three (barefoot) horses as a result of the rugged, hilly environment where they live. Photo by Jill Willis

issues. All body systems, including cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, reproductive, neuromuscular, and skeletal systems depend on exercise to remain sound.”

One veterinarian researcher, Dr. Frank Pellegrini, found that stall confinement was associated with more than 50% of impaction colic cases and confirmed earlier findings that nearly 90% of all domestic horses have gastric ulcers (stomach ulcers)--commonly caused by the practice of feeding

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horses large meals followed by long periods of fasting. He also discovered that more than half of all performance horses have both gastric and colonic ulcers—caused by hindgut acidosis—which is frequently caused by horses consuming products with added molasses and other sugars. Hindgut acidosis is also symptomatic of horses with laminitis.

According to a paper published by Dr. Chris Pollitt, laminitis occurs most commonly in horses on pastures. And while researchers “Nature has provided a landscape so much more rugged many believe that those and abrasive than anything in the domestic horse’s world, horses deemed ‘inresistant’ more that it is hard to imagine a domestic horse negotiating it sulin prone to developing without serious injury. In some respects, the outback may laminitis, there are including mybe a tough place in which to make it but it is ideal for the some, self, who believe the horse—for all horses. In this way, nature draws out of entire species may insulin resistant. the horse all of its instincts to adapt and survive. This be Just as all homo saprocess of bringing instincts ‘to bear’ is what begins to turn piens are at risk of developing Diabethe animal into a real athlete….” tes II if they lead a Jaime Jackson, Author, general lifestyle with Great Basin Wild Horse Expert

18 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 2 May 2015

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“One thing is for certain, they are genetically designed to survive without the influence of man and do so with fewer problems.”

Ric Redden, Equine DVM

“Remember, horses evolved on earth as free roaming grazing animals. Modern use of horses dictated husbandry practices that are not ideal for horse health.”

Laurent L. Couëtil, Equine DVM

obviously excruciatingly painful for the horse and not something to experiment with or take lightly. Grass-induced laminitis results when horses consume more pasture grasses and plant with high level of sugars, starches and/or fructans—collectively known as non-structural carbohydrates or NSCs—than their metabolic and immune systems can safely break down or process. Thus, the policy of NHC advocates is to avoid the risk of grass-induced laminitis by eliminating most access to cultivated grass pastures and provide horses with free choice grass hay instead.

The reason grass hay is generally safer than grass pasture is that the natural chemical process where plant sugars are metabolized or (a process known as respiration) continues to occur after the grass is cut, which lowers the NSC levels. Although much has been written about conditions impacting the NSC levels in pastures, there are no absolute guaranteed

Hay Nets - Con’t. on pg. 20 www.horsebackmagazine.com

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HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 19

Hay Nets - Con’t. from pg. 18

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safe times for horses to graze.

In addition, most horse pastures contain far more pounds of forage per acre than is ever found in wild horse country. But there are ways to simulate the manner horses eat in the wild of moving over great distances while eating.

Although most of us cannot provide the amount of space needed for horses to travel a mile to get one mouth full of forage, we can limit their intake by providing them with free-choice access to a variety of grass hays that are scattered in numerous small piles or placed inside small hole hay nets which limits the amount they can take in one bite.

Unfortunately, confinement and unnatural horse care practices lead to what many

Although grass pastures refer to as ‘stall vices.’ Cribbing is not only a sign of extreme boredom but also may be the known cause of nearly may be a symptom the horse is suffering from gastric ulcers. Whether it is a result half of all reported cases of lamini- of seeking relief from the physical pain of gastric ulcers or the mental anguish of tis, there are other known triggers. solitary confinement, cribbing is a cry out for help and rather than treating the An overload of vaccinations, anti- symptom with a cribbing collar, the cause should be determined and eliminated. biotics, non-steroidal anti-inflam- In horses where the care is all wrong, it is likely due to a combination of result of physical, mental and emotional pain. Photo by Jill Willis matory drugs such as Bute and Banamine, chemical de-wormers, horses. it out before purchasing. Or see products with added molasses and The single best remedy for the “Paddock Paradise” community other sugars, beet pulp and other providing a better, healthier life- page on Facebook for ideas and agricultural waste products, herbi- style for horses can be found in information. cides, insecticides, mold inhibitors the 2006 book, “Paddock Para- The good news is that are all potentially problematic for dise: A Guide to Natural Horse horses are resilient and it is never Boarding,” a too late to begin the rehabilitation concept that al- process of naturalizing their lives lows domestic and diet by implementing many horses to live in of these vital lessons from the wild. a manner that Remove their shoes so that their more closely hooves can function as nature inresembles their tended, trim them in a way that “There is no exact “best time” to turn out your horses on pasture.” natural world facilitates their natural gaits, feed Dr. Juliet Getty, Equine DVM and can be them the right diet that is providm p l e m e n t e d ed in a more natural manner, turn “The horse evolved eating grasses that contained more fiber and much less ion both large them out so that they can freely sugar. Pasture and hay grasses today were developed for the dairy and beef and small acre- socialize and move with others of ages—at pri- their species 24 hours a day and industry. The ability to accumulate sugars is desired because vate homes enhance their environment so they and at board- can condition their bodies simply the more sugar, the more milk the dairy cow will produce or ing facilities. through the manner in which they the faster a beef animal will grow.”

The basic prem- live.

Tania Cubitt, PhD, Equine Nutritionist ise begins with Visit the website of the nonputting horses profit Association for the Advance“Today’s horse lives a vastly different lifestyle than that of its ancestors. on a track that ment of Natural Horse Care Pracaround tices at www.aanhcp.net to learn Thousands of years of evolution conditioned the horse to thrive as a free- runs the perimeter more. To inquire about a consulgrazing herd animal, ranging great distances and foraging on a variety of of a pasture. tation, go to www.jaimejackson.

Ask your local com. grasses and roughage. In contrast, the modern performance horse library to get the book if you finds itself largely confined to stalls….” want to check Mark DePaolo, Equine DVM

20 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 2 May 2015

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May 2015 2

HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 21

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23 23

The Correct Way to

By Juliet M. Getty, Ph.D.

F

orage is the foundation of every equine’s diet and needs to flow steadily through the digestive tract.

Gaps without forage can lead to ulcers, colic, behavioral issues, stall vices, gorging, choke, cribbing, and even laminitis.

Truly, the only way to avoid these problems is to allow your horse steady access to forage, free-choice, all day and all night.

Responding to this inherent need is the slow-feeder industry. The purpose of this article is to provide a clear understanding of slow-feeders and how they can be used safely and effectively. There are many styles and types from which to choose. . The best approach is to contact several manufacturers to see which product best meets your horses’ needs.

24 24 H HORSEBACK ORSEBACK M MAGAZINE AGAZINE 2 2 May May 2015 2015

The purpose of a slowfeeding system is to simulate grazing. Horses in a natural setting eat small amounts of forage as they wander in search of the next tasty morsel. They eat virtually all day and night, taking time to socialize and rest every so often for a few minutes at a time. When they know that they always have access to forage, they become calm and relaxed, rest more often, and walk away from their hay, knowing that it will still be there when they return. In other words, they “self-regulate” and eat only what they need to maintain a healthy body condition.

Forage restriction is incredibly stressful. Why should this matter? Because stress causes the release of the hormone cortisol, which in turn leads to elevated insulin. When

insulin is high, it tells the body to store fat. Your goal? Get rid of the stress. Feed an appropriate forage (low in sugar and starch) free-choice and allow the horse to tell you how much he needs. There are some horses, however, who gain weight very quickly when given forage freechoice.

The reason has to do with the sluggish metabolic rate they’ve developed over time. When forage is parceled out only a few times a day, the horse responds by going into “survival mode,” where his metabolic rate significantly slows down in an attempt to conserve body fat.

A cycle of ever-increasing obesity is created that can be reversed only through exercise and removing the hormonal fat-storing response that forage restriction creates. www.horsebackmagazine.com www.horsebackmagazine.com

o Use Slow-Feeders

Slow-feeders, when used properly, are an excellent way to reduce stress. As their name suggests, they slow down the rate of consumption by providing hay through small openings. When slow feeders are kept full, they allow the horse to graze whenever he wants, thereby encouraging the horse to eat less and still have free access to forage.

The best approach is feeding off the ground

Chewing with the head low is more in line with the horse’s natural physiology, creating even pressure on the teeth and allowing the jaw bone to move freely in all directions. Furthermore, the muscles, www.horsebackmagazine.com

joints, tendons, ligaments and bone structure are not stressed when horses can grab hay in a straight downward motion. Eating with their heads down also protects their eyes and respiratory tract against mold spores and dust and provides for better nasal drainage.

How to start Use at least two feeders per horse and place them as far apart as possible. Even if your horse is in a stall or small paddock, place one on either end of the area. Many slow-feeders made of hard material can accommodate two or possibly three horses at a time, but it is preferable to have more feeders to encourage movement, satisfy the horse’s natural curiosity, and minimize squabbles

among herd members.

Gradually allow your horse to become accustomed to this method of feeding by placing some hay in the feeder as well as loose on the ground next to it. After a few days, most horses will get the hang of the slow-feeder. Some take longer, so don’t force the issue; let your horse get used to it at his own pace.

If your feeder contains a grate, leave it off for a few days as your horse becomes familiar with lowering his head inside the feeder.

Once you add the grate, pull hay through the openings to help get him started.

Supervise your horse during this period, watching for signs of frustration. Frustration is a form of stress and needs to be avoided.

Slow Feeding - Con’t. on pg. 26 May 2015 2

HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 25

Types of slow-feeders ■ Nets Hay nets are not the same as slowfeeder nets. Hay nets typically have very large openings, in which your horse can easily become tangled.

Slow-feeder nets provide openings that are much smaller. I recommend 1.5 to 1.75 inches for a full-sized horse; anything smaller may cause undo frustration; fatigue can also set in, causing the horse to stop eating.

On the other hand, if the hole is too large, the horse will typically eat as much as if the hay were loose on the ground. Researchers at the University of Minnesota demonstrated that horses took longer to consume their hay as the hole size was decreased. Therefore, it is best to choose a hole size that will slow down feeding but not so small that it induces exasperation.

It is best to purchase one from a reputable manufacturer rather than try to make your own. Cheaper fabrics can unravel and break, potentially damaging teeth and worse, tragically leading to colic if your horse swallows fibers. Commercial products are made from heavy duty fabrics that resist tearing and fraying, and provide safety features as well as customer support.

■ Advantages of slow-feeder nets • They come in a variety of sizes that can hold a few flakes, a whole bale, or even an entire round bale.

• There is flexibility in mounting them. Many can be attached to a wall, tree, or sturdy post at a low level. Some are

26 26 HHORSEBACK ORSEBACKM MAGAZINE AGAZINE2 2May May2015 2015

• •

•

•

•

•

designed to be on the ground, allowing the horse to eat in a more natural position.

Potential problems: If there is room behind the bag, the horse could potentially get his head caught. If the fabric tears, a foot could get tangled in the net.

If the horse is shod, the net must be secured within a bin; you can also hang them high enough to prevent a shoe or nail from snagging on to the netting but this will create an awkward eating position.

If laid on the ground, they must either be totally loose (expect them to get dirty) or be securely mounted so the horse cannot get a foot or his head caught below the feeder.

If dangled from a tree or post, it can quickly become a source of frustration as it sways with every attempt to get a bite of hay. This can defeat your purpose in regulating consumption. Furthermore, if the horse were to rear near a feeder hanging from a tree or placed high in a stall, he could trap a hoof.

They need to be refilled frequently (unless a whole bale size is chosen). Horses who run out of hay (even for 10 minutes) will never get the message that hay is always there and will not self-regulate.

■ Hard slow-feeders The best ones are made of sturdy plastic or hard rubber that will not crack in very hot or cold temperatures and can withstand the abuse of being

kicked or stepped on. Avoid wooden feeders. You might be tempted to build your own by placing a steel grid on top or on open sides of a container. This can create several hazards: • There is high potential for sharp edges.

• Clips can get caught on halters or catch an ear or eyelid.

• Grids can tilt.

• Shod horses can trap a foot on the metal openings.

• Metal grates can damage teeth; horses can even get a tooth caught in this type of grid.

• Grated vertical sides force the horse to turn his head sideways, which leads to neck strain.

• Quality hard slow-feeders offer several advantages: • They allow the horse to eat with their heads in a natural position.

• They are easy to fill with hay.

• Feeding can be shared with more than one horse.

• Dust and dirt tends to flow to the bottom.

Bottom line When given the chance, horses will self-regulate their intake of forage.

We can encourage this grazing behavior through the use of slow-feeders. Using them correctly, respecting the horse’s need to graze at ground level, will help give your horse the opportunity to enjoy a healthy life and be more of what he was meant to be – a horse.

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HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 27

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Horsebites - Con’t. from pg. 8

continual Bombardment & cannonade ... I shall never surrender or retreat ...

I call on you in the name of Liberty, of patriotism & everything dear to the American character, to come to our aid, with all dispatch … VICTORY OR DEATH.”

Travis’ tenacity inspired his men, and showed the world what it means to be a Texan. To this day, the heroic story of the Alamo defenders and their defiance against tyranny define our state’s character. The glory of this seminal battle draws visitors from across the state, the nation, and around the world to better understand what happened there in 1836.

Unfortunately, the carnival-like atmosphere they find at the Shrine of Texas Liberty and the lack of a cohesive narrative often leave them disappointed.

Even worse, there is nothing to show the proper reverence and respect for the men who gave their lives for Texas.

More critical at this moment is our knowledge that the Alamo itself is literally beginning to crumble.

I am honored to have been appointed to the Alamo Endowment Board and on behalf of that board, I www.horsebackmagazine.com

issue a new plea for our beloved Alamo which is now besieged by time and the elements. “…To the People of Texas & all Americans in the World: I call on you in the name of Liberty, of patriotism and everything dear to the American character, to come to our aid and support with all dispatch.” I believe that we Texans of today must answer this age-old appeal. We conserve what we care about, and Texans care about the Alamo.

Our goal is to raise the millions needed to preserve the shrine and build an Alamo Museum and Visitor’s Center to display Phil Collins’ gift to all Texans: his Alamo artifacts. This collection includes Jim Bowie’s legendary knife, one of only four remaining rifles owned by Davy Crockett, letters from William B. Travis, and many other historical documents that shed insight on early Texas history. These Texas treasures now sit in storage, waiting for us to take action.

A proper Alamo Museum and Visitor’s Center would tell the story of the Alamo defenders, and help visitors better understand why this Spanish mission in downtown San Antonio means so much to us and the world.

Travis’ plea came too late to

help him and his men inside the walls of the Alamo, but it carried across the country and rallied support for their cause. His inspiring words are as valid today as they were then. The history of the people of Texas and our great state is reflected in the spirit of their bravery.

It is time to honor that spirit again.

Building a future for the Alamo will take many people working together for many years. Join us today in preserving the Alamo and building an Alamo Museum and Visitor’s Center.

To find out more, please visit http:// www.thealamo.org/endowment.

REMEMBER THE ALAMO! A sixth-generation Texan, Ramona Bass was born and raised in San Antonio in a family where the spirit of the Alamo and what it symbolized pervaded her childhood. She has been a lifelong student of history in general and Texas in particular. She and her husband Lee live in Fort Worth. She is an avid supporter and co-chair of the Fort Worth Zoo and has been the driving force behind its privatization and recognition as one of the top 5 zoos in the country. Most recently, she has been involved with her hometown’s Mission Reach Ecosystem Horsebites - Con’t. on pg. 36 May 2015 2

HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 29

Tack Care...

Horseback Magazine’s Saddle & Tack Editor

F

or years now, you have heard me talk about my old Heiser saddle. What, exactly is a Heiser saddle? Herman H. Heiser came to the U.S. in 1854, and apprenticed to a saddle and harness maker in Wisconsin. In 1864, he moved to Colorado, where he opened his own shop. Herman died in Germany in 1904, but his sons ran the saddlery and other businesses. In 1917, they were grossing $600,000 per year. They were especially famous for saddles and gunleather. I have never seen a “low end” Heiser saddle. They were all well made with good quality leather.

When I first sat in the Heiser that was to become mine, I had never sat in a more perfectly shaped seat.

Chris LeDoux had a song in the 80’s that mentioned a Heiser saddle, so I was aware of the name, but had not run across one up to that point. I wanted that saddle so bad, I swapped a brand new Hereford saddle for it, even up.

When I cleaned the old oil out of the saddle, it came up with the prettiest deep color, and it took a shine just from the firmness and closeness of the grain in the fine leather. The picture you see of this great saddle show the rich shine, with no artificial shine whatsoever. I cleaned the saddle with Mean Green, used Kali leather conditioner, then polished (and polished, and polished) with Blackrock Leather-n-Rich.

One of the reasons I love the great old saddles is the quality of leather that was used. I was in a shop one day where the owner was putting

30 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 2 May 2015

My Old Heiser Saddle the finishing touches on a new custom saddle. I kidded him and said, “That’s really nice, but you can’t make a saddle as good as my old Heiser.” Now, this was a big old boy, about 5’19” tall.

He turned to me with a hammer in his hand, and said, “Listen here Pup, I can make a saddle as good as any old Heiser!” I said, “No, you can’t. You can make one as well, but you can’t make one as good, because you can’t get the leather”. He kind of deflated and said, “Oh, O.K., I see what you mean”.

Another thing about the good old saddles versus the factory saddles of today, the better ones all had hand formed ground seats. So, what is a ground seat? The ground seat is the layer(s)of leather between the tree and the seat leather. How this is shaped determines the comfort of the saddle to the rider. Most East and South Texas saddles don’t have a very good ground

seat. I’ve always said, the farther North and West you go, the better the saddles sit. That’s all because of better hand fitted ground seats. I guess that’s a subject for another article.

Now, I have to caution folks here. When I clean a saddle, I usually pull the stirrup leathers all the way out. Makes it easier to clean and oil the fenders and stirrup leathers, and has everything out of the way to fully clean and oil the rest of the saddle. Do Not Try This At Home!!!!!! On these older saddles with their deep ground seats, you will never be able to get the stirrup leathers back in. I made a special tool to turn the tip of the leather down to clear the skirt so I can pull it through, then tuck it back under the tree, and push it back under. Trust me, just don’t do it. Pull the stirrup leather around far enough to clean and oil the top half, then pull it back down and do the

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rest of it.

I have to say something about the “Form Fitter” tree on this saddle. I have always ridden spirited horses, some buckers, some spinners, some crazies, and the last several years, recycled race horses. The swept back swells on this saddle allow you to lock down into the saddle and ride out a pretty good storm.

I don’t remember the only time I ever came out of this saddle involuntarily. I still have amnesia from the incident, but witnesses said it involved a C-5 flying about 50 to 100 feet off the ground. My dog went home one direction, my horse, another, and Pat found me wandering along a fence line. I lost about 2 hours of memory. It was obvious the horse went down, obvious I came off, but I can’t say I got bucked off. I may have just come off when the horse went down. There’s no telling. But, I love the Form Fitter tree!

This is one of the heirloom type saddles that I will pass on to, hopefully, some caring family member. I have turned down big bucks for this show piece. I still ride it regularly, because I love it so much. I’m going to continue to enjoy it while I can.

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HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 31

English...

T

here isn’t a rider out there who hasn’t spent time riding to relieve the stress in their daily lives. I’ve had countless students say to me that riding is their therapy and keeps them from insanity. In fact, let’s be honest here, we all ride for therapy. The physical release that comes from the exercise involved takes tension out of our bodies while the mental, emotional and social side of it helps to soothe us and give us a sense of well being.

Over forty years ago the Europeans introduced riding as a viable form of therapy for people with disabilities. Since then, riding has become widely accepted as a method of improving body, brain and emotional functionality for a variety of special needs people.

There are two forms of this clinically motivated form of riding.

Hippotherapy is orchestrated by a registered physical or occupational therapist. There is typically a team of people who handle the horse and walk beside the rider as a safety net. The therapist directs and assists the rider who is physically challenged by using various positions on the horse and conducting a variety of exercises that require reaching, stretching and developing balance and muscle tone. The horse, also a key member of the team, must be well trained, extremely calm and tolerant of weight shifts, loud noises and sudden movements.

Therapeutic riding has a similar team consisting of an instructor, side-walkers, a leader

32 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 2 May 2015

Horse’s Are Therapeutic For All! and a well trained horse. In some instances, leaders or sidewalkers may not be necessary. The difference between hippotherapy and therapeutic riding lies in the absence of a therapist to direct the exercises. Creating fun and interesting exercises that can be adapted to the special needs of each individual rider can be a challenge for every team.

In both instances, the movement of the horse is critical to the effectiveness of the therapy. While different exercises are valuable for different disabilities, the gait of the horse is the most valuable tool. When a horse walks, its hips make the rider’s hips move similarly to the way a person moves when walking on the ground. This movement helps to strengthen the rider’s legs and trunk by working the muscles and encouraging the rider to find his balance. For riders with tight or spastic muscles, the gentle stretching from the mounted position combined with the movement of the horse helps to loosen the muscles and ligaments. The result is a combination of improving balance while strengthening the rider’s core muscles. Trunk control can improve to assist with walking and sitting while leg muscles can be stretched and strengthened.

One of the most amazing things about horses being used for therapy is the vastly diverse and beneficial effect that it has on people with disabilities and special needs. People who suffer from physical defects such as arthritis, cerebral palsy, partial paralysis, low muscle tone, spastic muscles, vestibular system deficits, Down syndrome and strokes can benefit from the strengthening and stretching of the muscles. Developing better coordination through riding can also help to improve

the rider’s physical and emotional condition too.

Those with neuro-developmental disorders typically respond very well to riding horses as well. Autism is often addressed in therapeutic riding and manifests itself in a wide variety of forms and degrees of severity. Amazingly, these riders often seem to respond by becoming more engaged with their surroundings, the horse and the instructor. Those with developmental delay and mental retardation can benefit from the stimulation and exercise derived from riding. Speech disorders, learning disabilities and emotional disabilities can be addressed while giving the rider confidence. Hearing and vision impaired riders can practice better communication and life skills while riding.

Perhaps one of the most wonderful aspects of therapeutic riding and hippotherapy is the feeling that it gives the rider. There is an emotional connection with the horse that fills the soul. Being outside is a change of atmosphere from most therapies that are provided in a rather sterile setting.

Sitting high above everyone else can be an exhilarating change for anyone and especially inviting to someone who lives in a wheelchair.

Being the center of attention and surrounded by volunteers who cheer them on raises the self esteem of people who sometimes feel inadequate due to their circumstances.

Aside from the rider, the families and caretakers who bring them to ride are offered a refreshing change of pace from more common indoor therapies. The chance to connect with animals and enjoy the great outdoors makes everyone feel better. Even the volunteers who sidewalk or lead the horse enjoy the feelings www.horsebackmagazine.com

from being outdoors with sensitive, gentle animals and the knowledge that they are part of a team that is helping someone do something special.

Equipment used can be as simple as a bareback pad, halter and lead shank. English, western or Australian saddles can also be used. Mounting stations usually have a ramp for wheelchair and walker accessibility. Some mounting stations have total access on two sides. Specialized equipment such as a hoist to assist lifting a rider onto a horse can also be useful. The size and scope of a program will dictate the extent of the physical resources.

The range of possibilities for assisting people with disabilities is limitless. The knowledge of the therapist or instructor is crucial to the success and the safety of the rider. Knowledge of the disability, understanding of the horse and proper use of equipment all contribute to the success of the therapy. Helping people with disabilities to push the limits and expand their horizons should always be the goal for therapeutic riding programs.

To insure the safety and success of therapeutic riding programs, the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International has developed a set of standards for certification and accreditation for instructors and riding centers. PATH Int’l offers training for instructors and registers equestrian centers offering therapeutic riding or hippotherapy.

The names and locations of these centers and instructors are available for public use. If you are interested in finding a center near you or would like to learn more about starting a center, contact www.pathintl.org for more information.

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 33

Sour Wine and A Cowboy (or A Cowboy Night Out)

W

hen a cowboy marries, of months, so it was chilled really if he’s blessed he gets a well. bride that works on his The night of our anniversary I heart and makes him had gone all in. I rented a hotel room want to become a better man. But in Houston, at the Motel 6. We ate that wild cowboy is still in there and out and no, we did not go to McDonoccasionally it comes right out and alds. I think we might have even eatthere ain’t no containing what might en at the Olive Garden, but that has happen. Sometimes it comes out in been almost 25 years now…so that what you do a-horseback, sometimes could be wrong. We even went to a on what you think you can rope and movie. Heck we had a real blowout sometimes on what you think you can night! drink. This was one of those times.

When we got back to the

We had not been married room at about 9:30 (we stayed out a long when my parents moved from little late), we decided we would try Amarillo to Waller Texas. My mom this wine. took a job with a wine broker. (I did Before we left for our night not know there was such a thing, I out on the town we sorta’ thought it was one of those fake had chilled that bottle, jobs people put on their tax returns. in the bathroom sink, Ya’ know, like cowboy or horse train- with some ice. Heck er; where you might starve to death, we were so impressed but you get the benefit of long hours that it was a sixty dolto make up for the lack of income). lar bottle of wine, we

As, it turned out, being a just knew it had to be wine broker is a real thing. Mom said good! In college I paid the lady was making $60,000 per year five dollars a bottle and doing this! I got to wondering if it it wasn’t bad, so my was like being a cattle broker? I’ve al- logic was that since ways heard that cattle will make you this was a sixty dollar “broker,” but it appears wine might bottle, it should be 12 have a different effect! times better! (There’s

At any rate, this lady had the educational part of given my Mom a bottle of $60 wine. this…12x5=60…see I Of course, Mom’s not a drinker so did learn something in she gave it to us, guess we must have college). looked like drinkers…or maybe my The first thing past made her think that I might par- my bride asked me take in a drink or two….I just don’t was, “where’s the corkknow. screw?”

When we got this bottle of What!?!?! wine we thought we might use it “What’s a corkscrew?” on our anniversary that year. It, of I said. course, sat in the fridge for a couple “To take the

34 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 2 May 2015

cork out of the bottle,” She responded.

Heck, I thought it had a screw on cap. But I was not to be deterred. I whipped out my pocket knife and started whittling on that cork. I got most of it out and the part that I couldn’t, I just poked it right back down into the bottle. We, of course, did not have any glasses…so we used the plastic cups that the hotel provided. Now I am not a halfway sort of person, I took a big ol gulp.

In all honesty, I am not unseasoned when it comes to drinking alcohol. I went to college and really enjoyed the whole college experience.

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I have drunk some things that will probably take paint off the wall and peel skin off of small animals. But that was the worst tasting stuff I have ever had the chance of drinking. I felt like the inside of my mouth had suddenly shrunk up and I was pretty sure that I could not have gotten a tooth pick in there if I had been driving it with a hammer!

Holy cow! How could this devils brew have come from grapes!

I grew up in the country and I have siphoned gas that tasted better than this! I swam in irrigation ditches full of muddy, silted water that went down smoother than this vile liquid that was trying to kill me.

As I was gagging and coughing I looked over at my bride through eyes that were now running water like a broken pipe. I was sure she must have been in worse shape than me.

After all, I had the most experience in imbibing. But there she stood with a little frown on her face. I wasn’t sure if the frown was from the display I was putting on or from that sixty www.horsebackmagazine.com

dollar bottle of wine, but she was not showing the ill effects that I was showing!

I finally staggered over to the bottle to read the label. I thought maybe there were some special instructions on the bottle that told you how to drink this stuff without all of the ill effects. Heck, I couldn’t even read the label. It was ‘Shatow de Battery Acid, or something like that…it was hard to read with my eyes running as they were.

After I finally forced down a little water and my mouth came back to its normal size, my bride informed me you are supposed to sip wine. I asked her if it made it taste better, she said no...not in this case. She said that she suspected that a better bottle of wine would not have the performance art that I had been giving, so she was ok with the bottle we had.

It seems I was the final act of entertainment for the evening for her… and here I thought I was going to die right there.

The lesson I have learned

from this is that just because something is pricey, it doesn’t mean it’s going to be any good. Just because a trainer charges a whole bunch of money to train your horse, does not mean it’s a good trainer, it just means that they charge a lot of money. Do a little research about who you work with on your horse. Whether it’s a video tape program or an actual person; if you can’t trust that what they are telling you works, then it’s wasted.

After all, you spent money on a horse…most likely you want to ride it. And if you are miserable working with a certain trainer or program, just remember; it’s your horse and your money. Find someone or something that works for you and don’t worry about what others might say.

If you’re not enjoying your horse, eventually all you end up doing is feeding it. And truthfully, if all you’re doing is feeding your horse; get a dog. They are way cheaper when it comes to feed bills.

May 2015 2

HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 35

Horsebites...

Restoration and Recreation Project, specifically the Mission Espada.

TEXAS WATER SHORTAGE SPURS LEGISLATIVE CONCERN BY JAY EVANS, CHAIR OF TSCRA NATURAL RESOURCES AND ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE Ranching in South and West Texas will naturally expose a person to drought.

I have always tried to understand how precious water is across the state, but the recent drought of record has raised awareness to levels many of us have never experienced.

We have been blessed with more rain since 2011, but we aren’t back where we need to be. When we look at the level of our reservoirs and stock ponds west of IH 35, a person realizes we have a long way to go.

Additionally, people are moving into Texas at a more rapid pace.

While we are extremely proud of our state and realize how great it is to live here, this population growth will continue to create increased demands on our limited water supply.

As expected, water issues are coming to the forefront as the 84th session of the Texas Legislature progresses. Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association (TSCRA) leaders and staff have been tracking and weighing in on water related legislation to make sure landowners’ private property rights remain intact.

TSCRA is opposed to a bill that could require local groundwater conservation districts to give special treatment to power plants that have permitted groundwater wells.

Under this proposed bill, power plants could be allowed to continue to pump groundwater at their permitted amount while other permitted wells, such as irrigation, would be required to make reductions. In fact, these other permitted wells may have to take larger reductions to absorb the amount of reduction the power plants did not take.

A power plant could be granted up to 10 years to pump at their existing permit amount while every other permitted well would be required to reduce pumping.

This puts local groundwater conservation districts in a difficult position of having to pick winners and losers and it increases their liability.

The power plants that would benefit from the passage of this legislation have

36 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 2 May 2015

Horsebites - Con’t. from pg.29

the right to a fair share like any other groundwater owner. However, if their fair share is not adequate, they have the same right as any other groundwater owner to purchase and/or lease more land and/or groundwater rights.

While TSCRA recognizes that providing reliable electric service is important, we do not believe that it is constitutional for state law to discriminate between permitted groundwater well owners based on type of use.

After all, is generating electricity more important than providing food?

This bill implies that it is and sends the wrong message. All groundwater well owners should be treated equally and be afforded the same due process.

TSCRA is also concerned about legislation that would create a separate permitting system for brackish groundwater, which is water that is generally not potable. With the population growth in Texas, entities are looking to increase efforts to tap into these brackish groundwater resources and use desalination technology to help meet our increasing water needs.

While TSCRA supports the development of brackish groundwater, we do not support legislation that would further complicate our current groundwater permitting system, give special treatment to brackish groundwater wells, and put additional pressure on the property rights of landowners.

Brackish groundwater has been, and can continue to be, developed under existing law. Additionally, we must develop reliable science with input of landowners and groundwater conservation districts, which will help us all better understand our brackish groundwater resources. TSCRA supports additional state funding for the development of this science.

As we look at the big picture of providing water for all Texans, we must make certain local control is preserved. The legislature decided years ago that local groundwater conservation districts are the preferred method for managing groundwater in the state and we must keep this in mind when working on these important groundwater issues.

TSCRA will continue working with the Texas Legislature to protect the private property rights of landowners, especially groundwater. I encourage you to keep a close watch on these and other issues and contact TSCRA if you

have ideas, questions or concerns.

In the meantime continue to pray for rain, especially since we know you can’t legislate rainfall.

SHOW JUMPER DANIELLE GOLDSTEIN TAKES ON EUROPE AFTER AMAZING WINTER SEASON IN FLORIDA Putten, The Netherlands— International show jumper Danielle Goldstein is poised to take Europe by storm after an immensely successful winter circuit at the 2015 Winter Equestrian Festival in Wellington, Florida.

“It was a really solid season,” she smiles. “I had some of the best results of my career, moved up more than 150 places in the Longines world rankings, and saw my younger horses develop nicely.”

Goldstein is most proud of her second place finish in the $375,000 CSI5* Grand Prix at the Winter Equestrian Festival in February with Carisma, a 16-year-old Swedish Warmblood mare (Cardento 933-Maratonia, Maraton 600) owned by Israeli Equestrian Partners.

“My horse jumped spectacularly that night and I couldn’t have been happier with the result,” she comments.

While in South Florida, Goldstein also worked on bringing up her new young horses to help them gain experience in the show ring. She has now returned to Europe to train in The Netherlands while competing throughout the continent. While based in central Holland, she plans to start her season in Europe at a CSI 3* in Eindhoven, The Netherlands, in early May.

The rider claims dual citizenship with both the United States and Israel and competes under the Israeli flag.

“I hope to continue to develop the young horses over the summer and the coming years here in Europe by doing lots of Young Horse competitions and slowly moving them up into the bigger divisions of the sport,” Goldstein explains.

She is especially focused on preparing to compete in the European Championships in August. Israel is hoping to field a team in the championships, as well, adding to the excitement of the Aachen, Germany event.

“At the moment, the hope is to show as often as possible in order to keep myself sharp and focused while pick-

Horsebites - Con’t. on pg. 48

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May 2015 2

HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 37

Lifestyle...

Five Tips for a Successful Spring Turnout

It’s

easy to ensure your horse receives ample nutrition while enjoying the pleasures of grazing on spring pasture.

After a long, snowy winter in many parts of the country, people and horses alike are eager to get out and enjoy spring warmth and sunshine. Pastures are greening up, and it’s time for horse owners to open the barn and let their horses dine al fresco.

“It’s tempting to just let horses out and allow them to graze for as long as they want,” said Dr. Karen Davison, equine nutritionist, Purina Animal Nutrition. “But it’s important to introduce horses to pasture grass in a way that doesn’t invite issues like gastrointestinal upset, laminitis or weight gain in already-overweight horses.”

BODY CONDITION SCORING 1. POOR Extremely emaciated. Spinous processes, ribs, tailhead, hip joints, and lower pelvic bones project prominently; bone in withers, shoulders and neck are easily noticed. No fatty tissue can be felt.

5. MODERATE Back is flat; ribs easily felt, but not visually distinguishable. Fat around tailhead feels a bit spongy. Withers round over spinous processes; shoulders and neck blend smoothly into body.

2. VERY THIN Emaciated. Slight fat covers base of spinous processes, transverse processes of lumbar vertebrae feel rounded. Spinous processes, ribs, tailhead, hip joints, and lower pelvic bones are prominent. Withers, shoulders and neck structure faintly discernable.

6. MODERATELY FLESHY May have slight crease down back. Fat over ribs spongy; fat around tailhead soft. Small fat deposits behind shoulders and along sides of neck and withers.

3. THIN Fat buildup about halfway on spinous processes. Transverse processes cannot be felt. Slight fat covers ribs. Spinous processes and ribs easily discernable; tailhead prominent but individual vertebrae cannot be identified visually. Hip joints appear rounded but easily discernable; lower pelvic bones not distinguishable. Withers, shoulders and neck accentuated.

8. FAT Crease down back. Difficult to feel ribs. Fat around tailhead very soft; area along withers filled with fat.

Area behind shoulder filled with fat, noticeable thickening of neck. Fat deposited along inner thighs.

2 2

Horses over a condition score of 7 may be at a greater risk for developing metabolic disorders such as insulin resistance.

3 3

3 3

Snug up the tape

38 HHORSEBACK ORSEBACKM MAGAZINE AGAZINE2 2May May2015 2015 38 46

4 4

96 READ READ WEIGHT WEIGHT HERE HERE

Place tape around the heartgirth

96

2 2

910 910

1 1

Stand horse square

96 READ READ WEIGHT WEIGHT HERE HERE

1 1

READ WEIGHT HERE

IDEAL SCORES Most horses, including performance horses and growing horses, should be in a body score of 5-6. For optimum reproductive efficiency, broodmares should be a 5-7, and not allowed to lose condition such that they are below a 5 during breeding season.

96

HOW TO USE YOUR WEIGHT TAPE

READ WEIGHT HERE

BODY CONDITION SCORING Body condition influences everything in your horse’s life, from reproductive efficiency, to performance, to good health. By using Body Condition Scoring, you can find out what kind of shape your horse is in, and work to improve the score. Scoring focuses on critical areas of the body, based on palpable fat and visual appearance.

910 910

D. Tailhead E. Ribs F. Behind shoulder

READ WEIGHT HERE

A. Along the neck B. Along the withers C. Crease down back

9. EXTREMELY FAT Obvious crease down back. Patchy fat appears over ribs. Bulging fat around tailhead, along withers, behind shoulders and along neck. Fat along inner thighs may rub together. Flank filled with fat.

READ WEIGHT HERE

4. MODERATELY THIN Slight ridge along back. Faint outline of ribs discernable.

Tailhead prominence depends on conformation, but fat can be felt around it. Hip joints not discernable.

Withers, shoulders and neck not obviously thin.

7. FLESHY Might have slight crease down back. Individual ribs can be felt, but noticeable filling between ribs with fat. Fat around tailhead soft; fat deposited along withers, behind shoulders and along neck.

4 4 Read the number to get the weight

www.horsebackmagazine.com www.horsebackmagazine.com

47

Dr. Davison shares five tips for horse owners to help ensure a successful and healthy spring turnout.

1. Take it slowly. Introduce your horse to spring pasture gradually to avoid any abrupt dietary change, which can cause serious problems such as colic, founder or laminitis. Dr. Davison recommends starting horses on spring pasture anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour once or twice a day then increasing that time by five to 10 minutes each day until your horse is in the pasture for six hours.

Once they are out successfully for six hours, they can stay out all day.

2. Prevent gorging. Try feeding your horse a full forage or hay meal before letting it out into the pasture to avoid turning them out on an empty stomach. Then when they start grazing, they’ll take things a bit slower. Another method is to introduce a grazing muzzle, which allows the horse to enjoy the pasture, but prevents him from taking large mouthfuls of grass.

3. Meet your horse’s nutrient requirements. Early-spring pasture grass is very nutrient-dense and has a high water content but is low in fiber. On the other hand, more mature grass has more fiber but fewer nutrients. Ideally, horses should graze on grass that is somewhere in the middle. Especially if your horse is coming off the winter slightly underweight, make sure you provide them with some hay to meet its forage requirements. Providing supplemental grains and other feeds at a higher feeding rate may also be necessary. For those horses needing to maintain or lose weight, a ration balancer can help ensure your horse is still receiving adequate vitamins, minerals and protein at a lower feeding rate (usually one or two pounds per day) while receiving the majority of their calories from pasture.

4. Know your horse’s body condition. Once your horse is unblanketed and/or sheds his winter coat, you can tell if he is too thin, too heavy or just right going into spring. A body condition scoring chart will help you determine your horse’s body condition. On average, it takes an additional 9,000 calories per day to gain 1 pound of body weight, so consider adding a concentrated feed and possibly a nutritionally balanced fat supplement to an underweight horse’s pasture intake. If your horse is overweight, increasing exercise, feeding a ration balancer and/or possibly utilizing a grazing muzzle while the horse is on pasture can be great solutions.

5. Work with your veterinarian. Always consult your veterinarian when making any drastic changes in your horse’s diet. Early spring and late fall are always good times to check with your veterinarian to ensure your horse is going into the new season on a healthy note.

Being mindful of the benefits and potential concerns of spring pasture will help ensure your horse enjoys great spring weather, and great spring grazing, to the fullest.

For more information about horse care and nutrition visit purinamills.com/horse-feed. www.horsebackmagazine.com

May 2015 2

HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 39

Hoof Health...

In Perspective: The Modern Day Barefoot ‘Movement’

Part II of III

T

he Natural Horse is unique in that it takes us out of our domesticated egos, pet theories, pseudo-sciences, and caged equine lives, and straight into the horse’s natural world for its invaluable lessons “from the wild”.

Nothing in it is based on domestic practices or contemporary science, only applications of the “wild horse model” in domestic horse care; where knowledge of the model was lacking in specifics because no credible research existed, such as diet, I said so.

In fact, the original, and complete title of the book was, “The Natural Horse: Lessons from the Wild for Domestic Horse Care”, coined after considerable debate over two years between the editorial staff at Northland Publishing and myself.

No one knew exactly what

to call it, for sure, as nothing like this had reached the publishing industry heretofore. With the exception of Dr. Emery, every authority in the domestic horse world I approached (and there were many), rejected the very premise of TNH prior to its publication. That is another fact. Then president of the American Association of Equine Practitioners told me in a phone call to his office in TX, “I can’t think of a single reason why our veterinarians would be interested in your research.”

The Science Editor of Equus Magazine, responding to my query, wrote to say, “If there is anything of value in what you are saying about the wild horse, Equus Magazine, not you, will lead the way!” And so it went, again and again. It wasn’t until after TNH was published -and after receiving over 150 rejections from various publishing hous-

es -- that it began to receive some positive press from reviewers.

But TNH never rose to popularity in the horse world – maybe because it is complex, and, unlike LOS, not as easy to read for most people. I didn’t intend that to be the case. The book is an inspired work -- meaning one “listens and composes”, like a composer of music or an artist at the easel. In fact, it went out of print in 1995, because few in the horse world were really interested in trying to figure out what it means.

“Too many 50 cent words,” complained one critic. One large book chain returned 225 copies all at once, explaining: “no interest”. But TNH was never intended to be light “coffee table reading”, or a simple, “how to” piece like Pete Ramey’s Making Natural Hoof Care Work For You (which I Jaime Jackson - Con’t. on pg. 42

Jaime Jackson’s field research base camp in the U.S. Great Basin in 1982. Note the manual typewriter on the table!

40 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 2 May 2015

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HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 41

Hoof Health...

Jaime Jackson - Con’t. from pg. 40

published a decade later in hopes of making natural hoof care more accessible to readers, and because Pete was genuinely inspired to do good in the world and was up for the task). Still, relatively few have read the book. As a pathetic example of this, I was astonished to learn from several graduates of an earlier incarnation of the AANHCP training program, that they had never read or heard of the book!

Here the reader should know that another of my texts had already come along, the Horse Owners Guide To Natural Hoof Care. There were different editions, the first penned in 1996, after my initial contacts with Dr. Strasser, sensing that her method had very serious conflicts with the wild horse model. I also, by then, recognized that the “natural trim” had not really been treated in its own right as a method, anyway, free from the restrictions self-imposed in TNH. I had concerns also

that LOS’s audience might readily construe that Strasser’s method and the wild horse model were one in the same.

They weren’t and aren’t.

And, here, let the record stand -the HOG (as I call it) is the first published instruction book dedicated entirely to natural hoof care and the deshoeing of all horses.

Pete recognized the difference, and also the importance and proper position of the HOG in the stream of educating oneself about genuine natural hoof care, warning readers in his Introduction, “Reading the Horse Owners Guide To Natural Hoof Care is prerequisite to learning anything from this book.”

But, really, even before Pete’s book, or the HOG, or LOS were conceived and published, the recommendation and very vocal message in one long breath to pull the horse’s shoes, trim the hooves according to the wild horse model, and ride one’s horse barefoot was born of first -- and not that it is important in the stream of things

No w

comfort for your horse... ease for your body

-- in The Natural Horse.

If one studies TNH carefully, one will find what -- and perhaps ironically -- an astute Dr. Strasser had discovered through her interpreter years before the “barefoot hoof care movement” began, and before she and Sabine sat down to pen LOS: “My advice to horse owners interested in developing the natural horse in their own horses is some rather unconventional changes in barnyard management: first, tear down the stalls and fences and let the horses run about and mingle . . . contour the pasture to get rid of all the flat spots . . . then spread rocks of all sizes and shapes . . . abandon the use of feed mangers and feed the horses on the ground . . . stop using paste wormers . . pull the watering contraptions down off the wall and kick the water troughs over, and then water the horses at ground level . . . make sure they have to stand in the mud if they want to drink. Pull off the horseshoes . . . and ride the horse bare-

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footed until it is lean and muscular . . . if you want the hooves to be really tough -- stop washing them in soap and water, stop painting them with ‘blackout’ and throw away the hoof dressing”. [TNH, C3, p. 35-36]

It was this, and I assume the lure of “nature”, that struck a chord within people like Dr. Redden, Dr. Strasser, and others. Other than myself, at the time, there was no palpable professional support for barefoot horses in the hoof care community, or anywhere else, and I know Dr. Strasser sensed an ally in me.

I had also just become quite visible in the veterinary community, having been one of the keynote speakers at the aforementioned laminitis symposium in KY. My lecture notes, published by the symposium’s host, Dr. Ric Redden, had reached her through one of the trails of the many European scientists and veterinarians in attendance.

But while Chapter 3 of TNH contains probably the most radical advice for hoof and general horse care published to that date (1992), Emery prevailed on me to counter it with caution. We had also jointly introduced my Great Basin research findings at the 1988 Annual Conference of the American Farriers Association in Lexington, KY, and understood the resistance that lay ahead from the professional farriery community.

Nevertheless, we struggled together to find a way to cross link my data to the domestic horse’s foot, and get that into the book. In the end, the decision was made to infuse my data into shoeing guidelines, and, in the same breath, caution horse owners to work closely with more “open minded” farriers if they dared to venture into barefootedness.

My “radical” advice was extracted and moved to a different chapter (3) so as not to aggravate farriers whom we hoped would read the book. Our operative the-

Enroll in the Natural Hoof Care training program at the Institute for the Study of Natural Horse P Care Practices.

Visit www.isnhcp.net for details.

To find a competent practitioner near you, see "Get Help" at www.aanhcp.net

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Jaime Jackson- Con’t. on pg. 44 www.horsebackmagazine.com

May 2015 2

HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 43

Hoof Health...

Jaime Jackson - Con’t. from pg. 43

ory was, first bring professionals to the trim guidelines, have them apply them to shoeing, and then, in the next section of the same chapter, “Riding a Barefoot Horse”, include them in the process of deshoeing. When I spoke about natural hoof care before the European Federation of Farriers Annual Educational Fair, at the Dutch Equestrian Center (Helicon), the head of the Farrier School told me he uses the trim guidelines of TNH, but “never for horses to go barefoot”. Other farriers have told me the same thing. I guess Emery and I half succeeded!

One has to understand the risks at that point in time. Emery and I knew well the damage caused by shoeing and that some form of transition had to take place to make it work at the equestrian level.

We harbored many more questions than solutions.

Readers must appreciate that there was no support structure at all at the time for horse owners.

Even Dr. Strasser faced this, for her own horse had been diagnosed with “navicular”, and it was her German farrier, ironically, who recommended pulling the shoers . . . or else. As Sabine explained to me, it was this event that propelled Dr. Strasser into the unknown that lie ahead, nearly a decade after Emery and I questioned our work as farriers, and personally I stepped into the unknowns of wild horse country seeking answers that would eventually converge our paths.

44 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 2 May 2015

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HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 47

Horsebites...

ing and choosing the best shows for Carisma to compete at in preparation for the European Championships,” she says. “She will jump a few larger shows and, hopefully, two Nations Cups prior to August, which will get her fit and sharp.”

Not only is her move to Europe designed to enhance Carisma’s show experience, it is also a springboard to further her goals in the sport.

“I see it as the real beginning of my long-term career,” she said. “I hope to continue to qualify for and compete at all of the major championships and I really hope to develop a nice pipeline of horses so I can continue this career in perpetuity.”

Interagro Lusitanos Celebrates Stellar Season at Adequan Global Dressage Festival Wellington, FL – The world’s largest breeder of Puro Sangue Lusitano (PSL) horses, Interagro Lusitanos, showcased prominent performances during the 2015 winter dressage show season in Wellington, Florida, ending with the iconic Nations Cup. Pia Aragão and Baldor Interagro (Ofensor MV- Quinata Interagro - XiqueXique), a 9-year-old Lusitano stallion, entered as individual competitors for Brazil in the small tour.

The March 25-28 Stillpoint Farm CDIO3* Nations Cup was the second of six legs of the 2015 FEI Nations Cup series and the top-off to a successful show season for Aragão and Interagro Lusitanos. With im-

Horsebites - Con’t. from pg. 36

pressive scores posted in the FEI Prix St. Georges and the FEI Intermediaire I, Aragão and Baldor continued their successful season that began with their first FEI win in late February.

This was not Interagro Lusitanos’s first entry in the Nations Cup. In 2014, Zerbino Interagro competed with Kerensa Muller for The Netherlands Nations’ Cup Team at the Adequan Global Dressage Festival. In the same year, Aragão and Zepelim Interagro were part of the Brazilian team who dominated that year’s South American Games. Argentina, Brazil and Chile each sent a team of dressage riders to Santiago, Chile, to compete for the title of Nations Cup champion and a chance to qualify for the 2015 Pan American Games. Brazil achieved these goals when its team of four riders earned Team Gold with an overall score of 68.279%, besting the second place team, Argentina, by nearly three percentage points.

Aragão and Zepelim also notched winning scores in the FEI Grand Prix and the FEI Grand Prix Freestyle during the twelve-week South Florida season. Zepelim, an 11-yearold stallion (Quinárius InteragroOrdenada Interagro, Yacht) whose sire is by the famous Xique-Xique, a Gold

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Steve Slivinski (281) 546-1132 Joe Slivinski (832) 584-6088 Medal Champion in Portugal, and whose dam is by Yacht, is the son of the foundation stallion of the Andrade line. The pair claimed win after win during the season, including a 69.063% in the Grand Prix Freestyle at the Palm Beach Dressage Derby National competition.

“Both horses are still beginners at this level,” Aragão said humbly.

“Baldor is fairly inexperienced and he’s never been in such a big arena before.

It’s a big change for him. My goal was to ride the tests as cleanly as possible to make them confident in the ring and to showcase their quality and potential.”

Aragão brought three Interagro Lusitanos to South Florida from Brazil to give them experience in the international arena. The third horse in the trio to make the trip from Brazil was Vade-Mecum Interagro, a 13-year-old Grand Prix gelding from the Xique-Xique and Yacht lines (Noblissimo Interagro-Pecunia Interagro, Yacht). While Baldor and Zepelim shine in the show ring, VadeMecum recently starred in a music video filmed in Wellington at Caroline Roffman’s Lionshare Dressage with www.horsebackmagazine.com

internationally successful musician DSharp. After leaving Florida, Aragão and her mounts will return to Brazil to compete and train to ready herself and the horses for the selection trials for the 2015 Pan American Games.

“What is important for me is that they mature in each level before going to the next one. They need to understand their jobs and have fun at work,” Aragão said. “We have a CDI at the end of April and another CDI at the end of May. They are two big events that are in my plans for the next few months.”

The Interagro horses she brought to the U.S. epitomize the best in the modern Lusitano. Interagro Lusitanos, based in Itapira, Brazil, is the largest breeder of Lusitano horses in the world, with 40 years of experience breeding Lusitanos.

The Lusitano horse excels in everything from dressage and driving to working equitation. Interagro is committed to preserving the pure bloodlines of the Lusitano breed, and its own bloodlines include some of the most respected of the breed: Faraó (JHC), Nirvana Interagro, Ofensor (MV), Xique-Xique (CI), and Yacht

Building Nationwide! www.barnsandbuildings.com jsj@barnsandbuildings.com (SA). Interagro has bred nearly 2300 horses in their 40 years of breeding Lusitanos. Their horses have graced the covers of international magazines 21 times.

Interagro is one of the most accessible and respected breeders in the world. They have hosted 24 national and 7 exclusive international auctions featuring premier Lusitano performance horses, in addition to 14 young horse auctions. Interagro’s Destination Lusitano program offers prospective buyers a chance for a relaxing getaway at the farm in Brazil.

At Interagro, riders can enjoy the rolling Brazilian countryside by horseback or rest easy in a carriage pulled by a four-in-hand of Lusitano stallions. Guests can also watch the horses in their daily training sessions, take a lesson on prospective horses, and meet the living pedigree of generations of Lusitano horses. Destination Lusitano is a unique opportunity to purchase the horse of your dreams while enjoying the journey of a lifetime.

May 2015 2

HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 49

Lifestyle...

“My Granddaughter and I, a Precious Gift”

By Jennifer Wenzel and Lewis Baber, photo’s by Donna Baber

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hen I first heard about Lewis Baber riding with his eight year old granddaughter Morgan at ACTHA events, I must admit I was a little envious. I never had the chance to meet my grandfather; he died in a tragic work accident when my mother was just a teen. While very few photographs of him exist there is one of him sitting astride a magnificent Palomino horse, proof of my horse gene.

Lewis Baber’s love of horses began in a rather unusual way. He had never given them much thought except for the times when his wife Donna took them trail riding for their sons’ birthdays at Happy Trails Stables. Donna and the boys were thrilled at the thought of riding, but Lewis…not so much. As Lewis says, “I was always so sore afterward that it certainly wasn’t what I would call fun.”

Lewis’ real adventure with horses began many years ago quite by accident. Donna was scheduled to go on a mission trip to India, and be gone for almost a month.

While she was away he wanted to do something special with their youngest son Blake. Much to Lewis’ amazement he asked Blake “what would you rather do, go snow skiing or for me to buy you a horse?”

50 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 2 May 2015

Lewis couldn’t believe what came out of his mouth, and yet, there it was. Of course Blake said he wanted a horse. Lewis thought “what in the world would we do with a horse?

We have nowhere to keep a horse, and I know nothing about horses except how hard it is for me to walk after those birthday parties.” That’s how it all began and what a ride it has been!

By the time Donna had gotten back from India Lewis was hooked.

Not only had he gotten a horse for her, but one for him as well. It had turned out there was a stable nearby and a great guy who was only too happy to help them.

As the years have gone by Lewis’ love for horses has grown into a passion, and a passion is something you love to share with others. Donna has been horse crazy since she was a child, blessed with the horse gene. From a military family, she had lived in Turkey as a young girl while her father was stationed there. Thanks to a kind and wonderful Turkish man named Abraham, Donna was fortunate enough to have been given the opportunity to ride all over the countryside. At Happy Trails Donnas’ memories on horseback were rekindled, but owning a horse was not something she had ever allowed herself to even

dream of. So together they started off on a new adventure.

Although their boys liked the horses, they never got into it like Donna and Lewis did. Their eldest son Brian was away at college and Blake had other interests, like most high school students. As the years went by and the grandchildren came along, it was Lewis’ dream that one of them would have the same love for horses that he has and be blessed with the horse gene.

When granddaughter Morgan was just a baby, Lewis would ride around the farm with her in the front of his saddle. While it was fun for Lewis he couldn’t wait for her to really get into riding with her Papa!

When Morgan was about five years old Lewis got her a little saddle, hoping to begin her riding lessons. Like most five year olds Morgan’s attention was easily distracted. No sooner would Lewis get her horse tacked and have Morgan on when the cat or a puppy would walk by, and she wanted to get off and go play with them. That was a little frustrating for a Papa who was dreaming of a little riding partner.

Though Lewis is the first to admit that he isn’t a horse trainer, he gives credit to much of his knowledge from renowned horseman Clinton Anderson. Lewis had purwww.horsebackmagazine.com

chased his Fundamental, Intermediate, Advanced and Trick series and studied them in great detail. Using his methods he has become quite proficient, enough to not only compete in ACTHA and Extreme Cowboy events, but to teach Morgan and her younger brother Tyler to ride as well.

There came a time when Morgan began to really take a liking to Donnas’ horse Banner. Donna had been hit by a car while walking in the grocery store parking lot and hadn’t been able to ride for quite a while.

A then six year old Morgan, told her grandmother that she would take care of Banner for her while she couldn’t ride.

The promise to her grandmother was just the inspiration Lewis was looking for.

After school M o r g a n would come www.horsebackmagazine.com

over for riding lessons and help with Banner’s care. It became quite evident that Banner liked her and had a special way with her.

Lewis had been competing in ACTHA events for quite a while and with Donna unable to ride, he began thinking about having Morgan ride with him. He set up some obstacles in the arena and helped Morgan with some of the ones she might encounter when she started competing. For Lewis it was a joy to watch Morgan take on each challenge. Banner was wonderful with her and she was catching on fast.

They eagerly waited for her seventh birthday so she could join her grandfather on ACTHA rides.

One of the first A C T H A rides that Morgan and Lewis participated in was truly

memorable and a turning point in Morgan’s riding. They were the third group to go out and were waiting for the two groups ahead of them to finish the first obstacle. The obstacle was a pedestal; you had to ask your horse to step up onto it with his two front feet. As Morgan and Lewis watched no one was able to complete the obstacle. Right before it was Morgan’s turn she turned to Lewis and said “Papa, I don’t feel good” which translated to “I don’t want to do this anymore- I want to go home.” Lewis urged her to just try the obstacle and do her best, and then if she didn’t want to do anymore they would consider leaving.

Lewis could tell she was frightened but thankful she was willing to at least try. Lewis said “when her turn came I couldn’t go any further with her, so I waited as she rode off by herself. Her back was to me as she approached the obstacle and she asked Banner to stop right in front of the pedestal. Then she asked him to step up and he placed his front feet perfectly on the pedestal. Next she asked him to back off and he did. When she turned around and headed back toward me I could see a great big smile on her face and I May 2015 2

HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 51

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knew at that moment everything was going to be just fine.”

Morgan is now 8 years old and in the second grade. She and Papa have been participating in ACTHA events together for a little more than a year. Having competed in over a dozen ACTHA rides together, Morgan is currently ranked third in the Junior Division. While Lewis tries to teach Morgan all aspects of horsemanship the first and foremost is safety and she listens carefully to her grandfather’s instructions.

For Lewis and Donna it’s been a joy for them to watch the young riders at ACTHA events as the Junior Division continues to grow in their area. Not only do they encourage and help each other, but develop lasting friendships along the way. For quite a while Morgan was afraid to trot. Before every ride she would say with a trembling voice, “Papa am I going to have to trot?” On one of those days while waiting for their turn to ride out a little girl about Morgan’s age came trotting by. It didn’t take them long for them to become friends and sure enough, Lewis and Donna observed Morgan with her new friend trotting around the camp together having a wonderful time!

Morgan’s six year old brother Tyler is also beginning to take an interest in riding. One day he was riding in the round pen and suddenly broke into a lope. Instead of being afraid he loved it! Morgan’s jaw dropped as she said, “Tyler’s LOP-

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ING?” It was something she had not done, but seeing Tyler, she couldn’t wait to get in the saddle and give it a try. So now Morgan is loping too! Papa used it as an opportunity to teach them both about the emergency one rein stop. While he doesn’t encourage them to lope at their age it’s a good thing to know for when the unexpected happens.

If you ask Morgan how she feels about competing in ACTHA she will tell you “It’s really fun and sometimes scary. My favorite part is the awards; it makes me nervous but excited to find out how I did. My favorite obstacle is the frog one, but I forgot what it’s called. You pick up a frog from a bucket, throw it into another bucket full of water then back up two steps and turn left. Yes, I like to master it! My favorite part of riding with Papa is… he’s fun. He does and says the funniest things, we are very comfortable together.”

This grandfather - granddaughter bond is beyond extraordinary, something Lewis attributes to their time with the horses. For the grandfather who was looking for a riding buddy, ACTHA events have taken their riding together to a whole new level that today Lewis still can’t believe. Each ACTHA ride creates many special memories, not only for Lewis and Morgan, but for Donna as well as she accompanies them to all their rides. For them, the fellowship they have camping out to a three day ride is icing on the cake.

The proud grandfather and teacher, is quick to recognize the bond that Morgan and Banner have.

Their love for each other is evident; Banner takes great care of Morgan on the trails and Morgan knows it, careful not to abuse the wonderful privilege between horse and rider. Grandparents teach us many life lessons and so do horses. Between Lewis and Banner, is the realization that Morgan has a special gift with horses, she has learned at a young age to be a leader and to trust, a wonderful start to a lifetime in a wonderful sport.

For Lewis it’s much more.

Riding with Morgan is so special he’s not sure he is capable of putting it into words, but knows to teach a child your passion is a priceless gift.

Perhaps the joy only another grandparent could understand.

May 2015 2

HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 53

General...

Wet Weather!

Howdy!

Welcome to Cowboy Corner.

This spring Mother Nature has dealt us a wet hand. Remember the ol’ rhyme “Rain, rain, go away, and come again another day”. Now, I’m sure gonna’ be beggin’ for rain this summer is an often heard comment. Agreed, but am tryin’ to get through the spring. My Cajun father in law had a great sayin’, “when you’re up to your ass in alligators, it’s hard to remember that the initial objective was to drain the swamp”. Great words of wisdom from The Bayou Country.

Got a four wheel drive everything, drive way, ranch roads, cow trails, all wet, really wet. Cattle pens have water standing and plenty of mud. Nothing that a spell of sunshine won’t fix, but am not going to hold my breath waiting on the dryer weather. Careful off the paved roads til we get about a week of sunshine, with no rain. Don’t hold your breath for that either.

May is the month we look forward to for cutting hay. The winter and spring moisture is going to produce lots of weeds, discussed last month, and hopefully a good hay crop. Good news is should have a good hay crop, bad news is gonna’ have to dry up a bunch in order to cut, rake and bale.

Remember, hay quality is determined by when the hay was cut. Mature plants lose a lot of their

54 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 2 May 2015

nutritional value so we try to cut early and often. Good plan, but in a year like this year, what you want to do is not always what you can do. Fertilizing early combined with a weed control herbicide is also a good plan, but not always possible. Guess we call it “playin’ the cards we’re dealt.” Also, like the line “gotta know when to hold ‘em and know when to fold ‘em”.

Storing hay if we ever get it cut and baled is another challenge in wet weather. If hay goes in the barn, no problem, if stored off the ground.

Lots of hay in barns is stored on old pallets, which is good since the hay is on a breathable base. Air circulation is needed for good hay storage to preserve quality.

For outside storage of round bales have had better luck with net wrapped bales, rather than string wrapped. Pick a well-drained site for hay storage or build a pad. Pads can be built from gravel or crushed concrete or sand. Have stored lots of hay on pads built from bank sand and the sand has lots of uses after haying season, such as in cattle pens, horse stalls, and ranch road repairs. Like to

set corner posts in bank sand with lots of tamping and water added to limit movement as clay soils dry. Loose corner posts mean loose fences and loose livestock. Bank sand can also help with boggy areas round bale hay rings.

A little sand, formed into a pad with a round bale and ring hay feeder can sure make work easier in wet weather.

Sand is easy to add to a feeding area and will benefit the pasture when hay feeding is over.

Don’t feed in the same location all the time but sometimes don’t have a choice. Rather feed in the same area for awhile rather than getting stuck trying to change locations. Lots of folk feed off ranch roads and get to rebuild their roads every spring. Sand pads adjacent to the ranch roads can sure help.

Let’s just cowboy up and wait out the wet weather. Dryer times are on the way, but until they get here and can go back to four on the floor ol’ Dobbin is just gonna’ have to earn his oats.

Happy Trails...

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HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 55

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