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J o i no u r Af f i l i a t e s : WS HC• UBRA• I ALHA • PMHA • • NWHA I FS HA NGHS F A• FHHS I I PS HR• I S HR• Ap S HA
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Contents Articles
6 Horsemanship Psychology by Chris Cox with Cynthia McFarland
8 Communicating with Your Aids... Keys to Success, Part 7, The Seat by Lynn Palm
10 Theories and Philosophies of Horsemanship, part 3 by Craig Cameron
12 Common Trail Riding Problems, part 2 by Bob Jeffreys & Suzanne Sheppard
14 Does Your Horse “Help” You Put The Bridle On? by Tracy Porter
18 Does Arena Size Matter?
Of Interest 22, 23 The Cover - Indigo Acres 11 American Shetland Ponies 13 Photo Horse Show 16, 17 Emdurance Riding 31 ARHA World Show 32 St. Judes - Events 33 Celebrate Farriers 35 DNR -passes required 36 Advertising in Tough Times 37 Health - Founder
by Monty Bruce
Special Sections
20 Trailer Safety by Ken McNabb with Katherine Lindsey Meehan
24 The Mustang Competition at the Wisconsin Horse Fair by Dennis Auslam
25 How do you Develop A Balanced Seat? by Mary Hamilton
26 How the Judge “Sees” a Class by Jennifer Lindgren
34 Good on Trail, Bad in the Arena by Julie Goodnight
About Our Cover Ro & Me, LLC, Romy & Stuart Ackerberg 3750 Meridian Ave. S, Montrose, MN 55363 Standing Trust Fund romy@indigo-acres.com • www.indigo-acres.com Phone: 763.675.2222 See there ad and article on pages 22 & 23
We hope you enjoy this issue of
Midwest Horse Digest! We are proud to be able to publish it for you, our readers, and ask that you support the advertisers that support this magazine.
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Equine Central Ready to Ride Guide Photo Classifieds Advertisers Index Real Estate Upcoming Events Traders Corner Classifieds
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Midwest Horse Digest
Rahn Greimann, Publisher, Owner and Editor Š 2008 Greimann Industries 35418 90th Street Blue Earth, MN 56013 507-526-5943 Fax 507-526-2629
Advertising Contacts Mark Bahls 507-943-3355/Fax 507-943-3352 mark@horsedigests.com
QUESTION: What do Ken McNabb, Craig Cameron and Bob Jeffreys have in common besides horses? ANSWER: They all are in Midwest Horse Digest every month with great training articles and horse behavior tips! Pictures below are from the 2009 Midwest Horse Fair in Madison, WI.
Peg Bahls 507-943-3355/Fax 507-943-3352 peg@horsedigests.com Andrea Jo Kroening 952-237-5311 andrea@horsedigests.com Midwest Horse Digest is distributed FREE at equine-related businesses in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Northern Illinois and North and South Dakota. No material from this publication may be copied or in any way reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Neither the advertisers nor Greimann Industries are responsible for any errors in the editorial copy.. Greimann Industries reserves the right to refuse any advertising which we deem unsuitable for our publication. No liability is assumed for errors in or omissions of advertisers in this publication. Opinions and views expressed in articles and advertisements are not necessarily those of the publisher, editors or employees, nor does publication of any opinion or statement in Midwest Horse Digest constitute an endorsement of the views, opinions, goods or services mentioned. While every possible effort is made to make our publication accurate and timely, Midwest Horse Digest does not warrant the accuracy of material contained in any article or the quality of goods or services contained in any advertisement.
To all of our advertisers, distributors and readers - we thank you! Pick up Midwest Horse Digest every month at over 800 feed stores, tack shops, veterinarians, farriers and equestrian centers across the Upper Midwest. If your location does not get Midwest Horse Digest call us at 507-526-5943 or email rahn@horsedigests.com Please direct all editorial and correspondence, as well as change of address to: rahn@horsedigests.com or call 507-526-5943
Beth Morgan of Reedsburg, WI wins saddle at Midwest Horse Fair The saddle donated and raffled by Bob Jeffreys and Suzanne Sheppard is, as follows: Low Dally Roper, size 16-1/2". Special Edition, One-of-a-Kind, Orthoflex System 8X Extreme Flex flexible skirt system, Brown with Brown seat, Distance Bell Stirrups, and Amber Filigree conchos. The saddle has some original art carving and hand tooling with Full Mini Basket Weave and Oak Leaf decor. The striking dies for this tooling have been destroyed and will not be used again, making this a very unique Orthoflex saddle. The value, without One-of-a-kind and Original Art designations, is $3729. I have yet to see a crowd (perhaps we should call it a mob) with that much enthusiasm at the Midwest Horse Fair when the saddle winner was drawn. While I would like to think it was the prospect of a free Orthoflex saddle, I think it was because of Bob Jeffreys and Suzanne Sheppard (Two as One) and their crowd pleasing performances. Their Saturday seminars had an overflow crowd and the attendees were very enthusiastic
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to the informative banter of the two "Superstars". Orthoflex is honored to be associated with Bob and Suzanne and look forward, hopefully, to seeing them there next year. Orthoflex has a very special relationship with the Midwest Horse Fair and its affiliates and with so many of the attendees. It is so gratifying to visit with long-term Orthoflex customers and receive the outpouring of love shown. Without a doubt, Midwest is the most professionally managed and most courteous and knowledgeable staff of any expo organization in the country. From the Board of Directors, the General Manager, and the Staff, to the superb volunteers, they are World Class! Regardless of business ups and downs, this is a "don't miss" event for us. Acie Johnson President, CEO, Orthoflex Saddleworks Inc.
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Horsemanship Psychology
Some journeys last for a particular season of your life, while others last an entire lifetime. For me, understanding and learning more about the horse is the journey I know I was meant to take in this life, and sharing it with others is an enormous satisfaction. There is no class on “horsemanship psychology,” no weekend clinic, no book or television program that can teach you what time spent with the horse himself can teach you. The horse can be the most effective teacher…if we are only willing to open our eyes, be humble, and drop preconceived ideas. I was born in Florida, but my family moved to an island off the coast of Australia when I was just a young child. I was fortunate to spend many hours in the saddle every day and I made it my goal to learn everything I could about my four-legged partners. I couldn’t get enough of those amazing animals and the more time I spent with them, the more I wanted to learn. Even when I wasn’t riding, I still wanted to be around horses. Watching how
By Chris Cox with Cynthia McFarland they interacted and communi- right. When you ask him for something and he cated with each other taught accomplishes the task with softness and give, me volumes, and once I began then let him stand and rest a minute or two. applying those lessons in body Don’t be in his mouth or putting any pressure language, I found I could more on him whatsoever for that short period of clearly communicate with horses in soaking time ways they understood. For example, when I get through Horses don’t use equipment to roping a steer and my horse has given me the communicate with each other. They innately run I’m looking for, I will just sit there and let understand body language, posture, pressure, him soak instead of chasing the steer back to eye contact and personal space. That’s why the striping chute. He might soak for ten I use all of these to communicate with my second or a few minutes, depending on where horses. I am, but I want him to have time to relax and Studying the horse over the years absorb the success he’s just had. has given me the keys of horsemanship Whether I’m heading or heeling, I psychology that lead to success. Let’s look at want my horses to know they can stand and some of these keys. soak in the arena. Too many times rope Relief of pressure is critical to suc- horses aren’t allowed to relax in the arena. cessful training. Pressure can come from your When you always run a steer back to the leg, hand, rein or spur. It can also be pressure chute, the horse will often get chargey and from your presence through your body lan- overly anxious because he’s never given time guage and expression, even when you aren’t to relax. touching him. The secret is knowing when to The idea is to reward correct give that relief so the horse learns in a positive response and especially, softness. When your way. Once the horse knows that relief of pres- horse is soft, he’ll soak up the lesson because sure comes from you, he will always look to a horse’s mind is like a sponge. When it’s soft you for relief. and pliable, it can soak up a lot. When it’s hard For example, if you put leg pressure and resistant, it can’t absorb much. on your horse to move, you should release Repetition is essential if you want that pressure the moment he moves in the to teach your horse properly and repeating in direction you are asking. Too many people small steps is the most effective way to build constantly pressure their horses without giving confidence and understanding in the horse. relief when the horse responds correctly. This Once the horse understands, he can begin to leads to a lot of frustrated riders….and horses. work on the same team as his rider. When you You need to give something back to the repeat a step, the horse soon adds this to the horse when he gives to you. This respects his list of things he knows. After this happens, you dignity and rewards the effort he has made. have built a step you can build on further. Always remember that relief of pressure is the Consistency is a great reassurgreatest gift you can give your horse. In his ance to the horse. When he knows what is mind, this is better than praise, petting or expected of him, he’ll be able to relax and start treats. trusting you. If you use conflicting cues or have Soaking is a term you’ll hear me different rules for your horse in the stall versus use often. This refers to the brief period of rest the pasture, he’ll be confused and unsure. you offer the horse when he’s done something Know that every time you handle your horse – whether you’re on the ground or in the saddle – you are communicating with him. Make it a point to be consistent in what you’re telling him. Preparation is essential to good horsemanship and this means preparing your horse step-by-step to do what you’re asking of him. You wouldn’t expect a first grader to understand algebra. It works the same with horses. Prepare your horse so he knows what you’re asking. When I refer to “preparing my horse,” I am not talking about “desensitizing.” I mean preparing him in small steps so he understands what you expect of him. You can over-do it with “desensitization” and end up with a dull horse. If you’ve prepared your horse properly, he won’t blow up and overreact. Create a job for your horse when you ride. You might be moving cows or just riding to the mailbox, but I’ve found horses will try harder if they see the purpose in what you’re asking them to do. Every time I work with a
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midwest horse digest and helped him develop his own methods of individualized training. Active in the cutting horse world as both a trainer and competitor, Chris has trained a variety of breeds for different disciplines. He also loves to rope, having been into calf roping in the past, and in more recent years, team roping. He participates in the Reno Invitational each year, and beginning in 2009, plans to host an annual invitational roping at his own ranch. He will also be holding horsemanship clinics for team ropers designed to prevent and solve problems with rope horses and to help riders better maintain the competition rope horse. Chris travels the United States, Canada, South America and Australia appearing at expos, conducting clinics and horsemanship demonstrations. His “Come Ride the Journey’ tour
Letting your horse "soak" for a brief time after he does something right is essential the learning process. Photo: John Brasseaux
horse I set things up using techniques and applications so he can please me. I look for him to make that effort. When you have a horse that puts his heart and soul into trying to please you, that’s when you know you have a real partner. Keep it interesting! Mix up your routine and do something different with your horse. New experiences engage a horse’s mind and build confidence. If you focus too much on a single thing day after day, your horse may learn to resent it. Your horse can get sour from too much ground work…and it’s not much fun for you either. I recommend having a plan of what you want to accomplish every time you work with your horse. This will help you continue learning and help avoid wasted time, as well as boredom. Patience goes a long way with the horse, and you’ll need patience if you intend to success as a horseman. At the same time, patience isn’t any good without knowledge. You can have all the patience in the world but without a plan, you’re not going to get far. Knowledge and understanding will actually give you patience. There are no shortcuts to good horsemanship. You can’t skip steps. You can learn a tremendous amount of theory and great ideas, but they require time and practice to perfect, and that means you need to be patient. Over the years I’ve seen that when someone’s patience runs out, this usually means they’ve come to the end of their knowledge. Self-doubt and fear are also based on lack of understanding or information. Every dedicated horseman needs what I call a “reservoir of patience” to tap into as you work to improve your horsemanship. If you have a program you know will work, you can afford to be patient. Up Close with Chris Cox Born in Florida and ranch-raised in Australia, Chris returned to the United States in 1986 to make a career of working with horses. Years of working horseback on the ranch near Queensland gave Chris a healthy respect for the horse’s ability and intelligence,
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takes him to cities across the U.S. each year. This two-time Road to the Horse Champion offers week-long intensive horsemanship clinics at his Diamond Double C Ranch in Mineral Wells, Texas, and has a regular horsemanship program on RFD-TV. In 2008, Western Horseman released Ride the Journey, by Chris Cox with Cynthia McFarland, a 225-page, full color book that details Chris’ practical methods and training techniques. Packed with step-by-step exercises and color photos, the book will help you improve your horsemanship skills, no matter what discipline or breed you ride. Visit www.chris-cox.com or call Chris Cox Horsemanship Company at 1-888-81-HORSE for information about the Ride the Journey book, upcoming course dates and appearances, equipment and training DVDs.
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“Communicating with Your Aids — Keys to Success, Part 7, The Seat” In this article, I will explain how the rider uses her seat, one of the rider’s most important yet often overlooked aids. I will explain this by using the examples of upward and downward transitions. As the rider puts weight in the saddle, the rotation and movement of her hips gives the horse the indication to go forward. When this rotation and movement decreases, it signals the horse to slow or to stop. The best way to show how this works is by using simple exercises that you can do at home to improve communication using your seat. Walk-Jog/Trot Transitions Using the Seat The goal of this exercise is to use your seat, rather than hand or leg aids, to signal requests for upward and downward transitions from
walk to trot. Start by asking your horse to walk forward on a large circle. Gently follow his movement with your hips. Prepare for an upward transition to the jog/trot using your seat as the main tool for communicating to the horse. Do this by first putting more weight in your seat. As you do, rotate your hips to follow the horse’s movement and to encourage him to increase his speed through the action of your seat. Support this action by lightly applying leg aids (if needed) and slightly releasing the reins to encourage his forward movement. If needed, reinforce your requests with a “cluck.” He should pick up the jog/trot. Continue following his motion with your seat. Jog/trot a segment of the large circle, and then turn him to make a smaller circle within
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the large one. We will use the smaller circle to ask him for a downward transition back to the walk. Jog/trot a portion of the small circle, and prepare for a downward transition using the seat. Once again, put weight in your seat, but this time decrease the movement and rotation of your hips with the horse’s movement. He should make a transition from jog/trot to the walk in response to your seat aid. Praise him if he does. Do this exercise in both directions. As your practice this exercise, your seat aid will become more effective and your horse more responsive. You will notice that less leg and voice aids are necessary to achieve the transitions. Jog/Trot to Lope/Canter Transition Using the Seat When the horse is comfortable and understands the aids communication you are giving him for the walk to jog/trot transition, it is time to try transitions from the jog/trot to the lope/canter. This exercise should be done in a large fenced paddock or pasture. Be sure the horse is warmed up before starting this exercise. Repeat the walk to jog/trot transition exercise to reinforce the effectiveness of your seat, leg, and hand aids. Start by trotting the horse on a large circle. The rider should post to the trot even if using a western saddle. Encourage the horse to depart into the canter by using the word command “canter.” (The horse already should have learned this voice command from ground training on the longe line or round pen or liberty work.) At the same time you give the voice command, use your seat and leg aids to encourage him to move forward into the canter. Keep a loose contact on the reins, lightly positioning him on the arc of the circle. Continue following his motion with your seat while posting as he increases his speed and makes a transition to the lope/canter. At this point, it is important that he canters but not important which lead that he takes. When he begins loping/cantering, sit and follow the rocking motion of the gait with your seat and hips to encourage him to continue cantering. When a horse has a problem picking up the correct lead, the most common cause is that the rider is not maintaining the proper form and balance. The rider is not properly controlling his/her body position during the jog/trot to lope/canter transitions. To achieve this proper
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control, it requires an understanding of the rider’s turning aids. So, before we can go into more detail about perfecting transitions, we need to understand the importance of the rider’s turning aids and how they are used to position the horse.
as a pole for the horse to bend around.” In the next article, I will give you some exercises to practice the turning aids and go over the bending aids and exercises for using them as well. My five-part series, Dressage Principles for the Western and English Horse and
The Turning Aids Turning or “bending” aids include our hands, through the reins, and our legs. We use these aids to control the horse’s direction of travel and his body position. The term “bending” may be unfamiliar to some riders. When the bend through the horse’s side is correct, his body conforms to the arc of whatever curved line he is on. If a horse is bent properly on a circle, we say he is “straight” because he is properly following the arc of the circle. His hind feet follow in the tracks of the forelegs on a curve. To be able to do this, he must bend. The primary aids to turn or bend a horse are the rider’s outside leg and outside rein. The outside is the side of the horse opposite from the direction of the turn. For example, if I want to turn my horse in a circle to the left, I turn him using my outside aids—the right leg and right rein. The job of my inside (left) leg is to keep the horse forward and out on the turn. My inside (left) rein is used to lightly position my horse’s head so that he is looking in the direction of the turn. Let us look at the function of each aid in turning or bending a horse: The outside rein functions as the turning rein. It asks the horse to move his shoulders to follow the arc of the circle or turn. When using the outside rein, be careful not to move the outside hand over the crest of the horse’s neck. The outside leg is positioned slightly behind the girth. It helps to bend the horse’s body around the inside leg and keeps his hindquarters from swinging out and off the arc of the circle or turn. The inside rein lightly positions the horse’s head in the direction of the turn. Do this by slightly rotating the inside hand as if turning a key or opening a doorknob and slightly opening the rein in the direction of the turn to position the head. The inside leg is positioned at the girth. It helps keep the forward momentum. Also, as my friend and Olympic rider, Jane Savoie, describes in her wonderful book CROSS TRAIN YOUR HORSE, “the inside leg serves
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Rider will enhance this series on Communicating with Your Aids. For more information on this and other Palm Partnership Training™ products or information on clinics, go to www.lynnpalm.com or call us at 800-503-2824.
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gained and lost. You can’t make something or somebody trust or believe in you, you can only gain this trust or respect by the way you work with or train your horse. Enough is Enough
Theories and Philosophies of HORSEMANSHIP part 3 by Craig Cameron Horseman Versus Trainer A great horseman is a fair and patient communicator. Here’s an interesting analogy, when it comes to training horses. Say you measure knowledge in terms of electric volts. One trainer has 100 volts and another has only 75. But the trainer with 100 volts can communicate only 40 volts to the horse. And the trainer who has 75 volts can pass along all 75 to the horse. Which trainer do you want riding your horse? I’d rather have the trainer with 75. There’s a difference between a great horseman and a great horse trainer. I’ve known a lot of horse trainers, even champions, whom I don’t respect. Horses are just things to
them, just objects, something they use on their way to glory. The championships are always about them, not their horses. To me, a big part of horsemanship and horse training is trust and it’s a two-way street. It’s a trust I must have of my horse and he of me. In the dictionary, trust is described as faith, hope and a reliance on another. It also mentions confidence and doing things without fear or misgivings. These are all qualities I try to develop in my horses. To trust is to believe in something. As horse people, it’s easy for us to destroy the trust or belief our horses have in us. If you train through pain or fear, you destroy the trust the horse has in you. Trust, like confidence, can be
How do you know when you’ve trained or ridden enough for a day? Recognize when your horse is trying. Even though you might not have gotten to the point you had in mind that day, if your horse is trying, maybe that’s enough for that day. Don’t push it to where things become bad. You always want to end on a good note. One thing I see people do, even at my camps and clinics, is after they learn new training techniques; they make the mistake of never stopping their training. I’ll yell out to them: “When are you going to stop training on that horse?” They look at me and say, “What?” There has to be resting spots for horses. Resting spots are extremely important to the horse, especially when you’re doing things that are mentally and physically taxing to him. Learn to find a stopping spot. Drop your reins, turn loose of the horse and let him relax and catch his breath. This is part of giving something back to the horse. Rest, relief, release, relaxation, reward, a pat on the neck. Let him rest a minute or two. You’ve also got to take into consideration a lot of different things. How long have you been riding the horse? What is his disposition? How hot is it outside? When you add the humidity and temperature together and they total 180, be careful. Then enough can be enough real quickly. The horse can become overheated and not be able to cool himself down. He could even die. If you get a horse too hot and too tired, he can’t learn or think anymore. And if you push, the horse will become angry. You can’t train an angry horse. An angry horse can’t learn. Be a great teacher to your horse. To do so, you need to be a great student of horsemanship. Teaching is the art of communication. Work on the little plateaus, the little changes, the little tries. Reward them and build upon them. Those are your building blocks. Goal-Setting Set goals for yourself in horsemanship because that’s the only way you’ll know if your relationship with your horse is working. But come up with small ones - they’re more believable and therefore achievable. Work on reaching small plateaus, not climbing insurmountable mountains. I think a mistake that many of us make is that we ask way too much, way too fast, of ourselves and of our horses. We need to slow down. Take our time. Don’t get in a hurry with horses. On the road to becoming a good horseman, you must first develop a good relationship with your horse, based on trust, respect and understanding. Good Luck & Ride Smart Craig Cameron Get Craig’s book and www.CraigCameron.com
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American Shetland Ponies Featured As “Breed Of the Week” on USEF’s Club Equestrian Website
The irresistible American Shetland Pony is the “Breed of the Week” on the USEF Club Equestrian website. (Photo courtesy of the American Shetland Pony Club)
American Shetland Ponies are getting their well-deserved time in the spotlight, starring as the Breed of the Week on the USEF’s Club Equestrian website. The American Shetland Pony Club (ASPC) is a USEF recognized breed association and has enjoyed a long and fruitful relationship with the USEF. The “Breed of the Week” spotlight details the breed’s history as well as the fact that the small but mighty equines are a favorite of children and adults. Many of today’s top horsemen got their start on a Shetland Pony. Today, as land resources dwindle the small equine’s popularity is back on the rise. These smaller horses and ponies are also easy to manage for horse lovers of all ages. Many baby boomers that previously enjoyed large horses have found that small equines are a way to continue to enjoy horses regardless of age. And in the current economy, the versatile American Shetland Pony is an affordable option for many equestrians who want to scale down their equine activities but stay involved. The American Shetland Pony Club was established in 1888 and recognizes four distinct types of ponies: the Classic Shetland Pony, the Modern Shetland Pony and two types of pony crosses, the American Show Pony and the National Show Pony. The Classic American Shetland Pony is a refined version of their Scottish ancestors. To check out the Shetland Pony as the “Breed of the Week” visit the Club Equestrian homepage or follow the link http://www.clubequestrian.com/breeds/shetland_ponies.aspx. For more information on the American Shetland Pony Club visit their website at www.shetlandminiature.com or call (309) 2634044. The American Shetland Pony Club, the American Show Pony Registry and The American Miniature Horse Registry are non-profit organizations established to preserve and refine the bloodlines of these small equines and promote the enjoyment of small equines. Recognized as the oldest and most versatile registry in the United States, the American Shetland Pony Club offer a variety of programs for Shetland Pony and Miniature Horse enthusiasts of all ages. Visit their website at www.shetlandminiature.com or 81-B East Queenwood Road, Morton, IL 61550.
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ting farther away. You might even let him stop and rest away from the barn, but work harder and faster near the barn. This same approach could be used with one horse remaining in the paddock while you work the other. Finally, here’s a cooperative exercise for horses that will only go out with their buddy alongside. Get you horse’s buddy’s rider to help out. Tack up and mount both horses, riding side by side in the arena or another safe area with plenty of room. Once the horses are walking together each rider should turn and circle away from the other, one to the left and one to the right. Keep the size of the circles about ten feet, and then meet up and go straight, side by side for a few strides. What you’re doing here is resolving separation anxiety by practicing leaving and coming back together. Continue the exercise in ever-increasing circles, showing the horses that while they are, in fact separating, it is not forever. Repeat at the trot and then the canter. The next step is to have one horse remain standing still while the other walks for-
Common Trail Riding Problems: Solutions to Refusals, Rushing Home and Other Undesirable Behaviors: Part 2 safe, don’t fight it; let him go. In fact, you may even encourage him to go faster. When you arrive at the barn, head straight for the arena and work for at least an hour or so. Refine that trot, execute clean By Bob Jeffreys & Suzanne Sheppard Last month we discussed water canter departures in a specific lead, develop a crossing in the first installment of our three part more balance stop, a lighter back up, more colseries on solutions to common trail riding prob- lection, improve your lateral work, etc. Do lems. We’ll now move on to the horse that some really good training while you work on “jigs” all the way home as soon as we turn in this other problem and you’ll not only cure his that direction. Why do you suppose he’s so desire to rush home, but you’ll have a more anxious to get back? Let’s analyze the situa- responsive horse as well. Three or four sessions should have him tion. Out on the trail your wondering if he really horse has to carry you, the wants to come back at saddle and other trail items. all! In this way, by changHe must listen to your ing his associations of requests and walk, trot and what goes on when out canter when and where you on the trail (fun!), and want, as long as you want. what happens back at He must calmly deal with home (hard work when ditches, bicycles, joggers, he rushes),you’ve made deer, bear, hunters, etc. But his idea become the now you’ve turned toward same as your idea. It’s home and thoughts of what happen there include being Two riders begin the buddy sour all about working smarter, dismounted, untacked, per- exercise at Equine Affaire Ohio not harder! haps a good roll, a nice bath, with Suz. Photo - Tonya Corzatt The same principal works on the barn sour horse maybe some treats, and then grazing with his paddock mates. You’d probably try to get back that won’t leave the property. Just work him just as quickly too if faced with these choices! right there. But get him moving, teaching all If you want to break this cycle you’ll those skills you want to teach. As you are trotneed to change part of the equation. Every ting figure eights, start drifting away from the once in awhile dismount out on the trail and let barn on one half of the figure and then back your horse enjoy some down time. The when toward the barn on the other half. Keep enlarghe picks up speed on the way home, if you feel ing the figure eight so that you’re gradually get-
They circle away to reduce the stress of separation anxiety. Photo: Tonya Corzatt
ward about ten or fifteen feet away. Halt that horse, and then let the other walkup to him. The key here is to walk calmly. Once this is easy, have the other horse trot off while your horse stands, and then ask him to walk up to his buddy. Then try it at the canter. Be sure that your horse can do this calmly at each gait before you ask him to tolerate being left by his buddy out on the trail, where it is far more challenging. As always, good preparation helps your horse succeed, and avoids testing him to failure. In the last of our three part series we’ll talk about spooky horses, horses that kick, won’t stop, or get really excited. Until then ride safe! © Bob Jeffreys 3/09. Bob Jeffreys and Suzanne Sheppard travel nationwide teaching people how to bring out the best in their horses. Their homebase is Bob’s Two as One Ranch in Middletown, NY. For info about Bob & Suzanne’s Wind Rider Challenge, private horse training lessons, riding lessons, clinics, DVDs, books, Horsemanship Ed Courses and ProTrack™ Trainer Certification Programs please visit TwoasOneHorsemanship.com or call 845-6927478.
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midwest horse digest
2009 PHOTO HORSE SHOW! Color/Pattern Type Equines GENERAL INFORMATION - This online show is for color/pattern type equines only. This is not for any solid color equine. (IF YOU DO NOT UNDERSTAND HOW THIS IS DONE - PLEASE, CONTACT THE ISHR OFFICE AND WE CAN DISCUSS THIS WITH YOU. 866-201-3098, ishrppa@aol.com) STARTS: January 1, 2009 - ENDS: October 10, 2009 / Judging Commences: Oct. 17, 2009 VIEW ALL CLASSES: http://spottedhorses.tripod.com/online_show_1.html OVER 340 CLASSES! Huge variety of Halter Classes! 1) Exhibitor Age Groups: PEEWEE - 11 years of age and younger, YOUTH - 12 years old up to 17 years old, ADULT - 18 years old up to 54 years old SENIOR - 55 years old and up 2) Equine Sex and Age Groups: FILLY - up to 2 yrs. old, COLT - any male up to 2 yrs. old, MARES - 3 yrs of age & up, STALLIONS & GELDINGS - 3 yrs of age & up 3) Equine Type & Size: MINIATURE HORSE - at maturity 38" and under, PONY - 39" not to exceed 54" (13.2hh at maturity), HORSE - at maturity over 13.2hh to 16hh, DRAFT - over 16hh at maturity (includes warmbloods, & crossbreds) 4) Equine Groups: PLEASURE TYPE, STOCK TYPE, HUNTER TYPE 5) Accepted Pinto Type Pattern Markings: TOBIANO, FRAME OVERO, SABINO (white must be above knee and/or hock and/or Apron or Bald face), MIXTURE OF PINTO TYPE MARKINGS (such as a Tovero, Sabino Overo, etc...), AND SPLASHED WHITE. 6) Accepted Appaloosa (Lp) Type Pattern Markings: LEOPARD, FEW SPOT LEOPARD, VARNISH ROAN, SNOWFLAKE, BLANKET (spotted, solid, snowcap, frost, etc...), MOTTLED, OR MIXTURE OF APPALOOSA TYPE MARKINGS. 7) Accepted Pintaloosa Types: CLASS TYPE "A" - MUST SHOW BOTH THE PINTO TYPE PATTERN AND ANY APPALOOSA (Lp) TYPE PATTERN. CLASS TYPE "B" - SHOWS ONLY ONE PATTERN TYPE OF EITHER THE PINTO OR THE APPALOOSA WITH PROOF OF PARENTAGE (such as paper proof, picture proof or breeder proof) 8) Examples of Spotted Equines - (any spotted breed, breed type, crossbreed, etc...)Paint, Pinto, Pintabian, Spotted Saddlebred, Spotted Tennessee Walker, Pintaloosa, Appaloosa, POA, Colorado Ranger, Walkaloosa, Arabloosa, Knabstrupper (and any crosses), etc... WESTERN CLASS'S: Horse in western gear w/exhibitor in saddle in western attire. ENGLISH CLASS'S: Horse in English gear w/exhibitor in saddle in English attire. HUNTER/HACK CLASS'S: Horse in appropriate gear w/exhibitor in saddlein English attire. BAREBACK CLASS'S: Bareback pads will be allowed. EACH CLASS MUST HAVE AT LEAST 3 PARTICIPANTS - if less than 3 in a class then the participants will be combined into another similar class. SPECIAL AWARD CERTIFICATES for 1st & 2nd Place PLACEMENT CERTIFICATE FOR 3rd Place CHAMPIONSHIP CLASS'S - winner may receive a Champion Rosette Ribbon, or a Certificate with a Prize Award. ISHR MEMBERS / REGISTERED EQUINES - all points will count towards yearend point awards. (as longas membership is current)
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May 09
midwest horse digest
Does Your Horse “Help” You Put The Bridle On? By Tracy Porter
People often email me with their horse situations. I find that one person’s horse problem may not be considered a problem by another. What makes us view whether our horse’s response is acceptable depends if we feel “safe and in control”, “fearful and out of control”, or “getting along but annoyed In a nutshell…it depends upon our personal experience and horse-ability. Here are 3 “similar” scenarios. They are the same, but viewed differently by the writers.
just basic horsemanship. Sure, I remember going to horse camp when I was 8 years old…I was assigned an Appaloosa that knew how to raise and avoid my puny height. What did not help was my unawareness that I could and should ask him to drop his head. I also had a responsibility to the horse to hold the bridle correctly. The way I was bridling was not helping the situation, but rather making it worse. It’s a shame we did not learn how to perform this basic, but important ritual. Boy was my 8 year old horsemanship bad! As the writers stated above, their horses “twist and pull” their heads out of their bridles and halters. All are anticipating what is coming next. Essentially they are saying to their owners…’hurry up and get the job done”. They are
When I take my horse Black’s bridle off, he sometimes “helps” me by twisting his head out of it as soon as I reach for the headstall. Any suggestions as to why he does this and how to get him to stop? He is not mean about it, more like he is impatient and wants me to get it off faster. I have also noticed that some of the other horses in the barn do it too, the stallion even does it when you are taking his halter off. Ali and Black “Sure” helps me by twisting his head out of the bridle as soon as I have the bridle or halter undone and my hands are up to take it off. He also helps put the bridle on by lowering his head so I can reach to get it over his ears and opens his mouth for the bit. I think he is being a gentleman and trying to help out. Allan and Sure My horse, Darkhorse, unbridles herself. I look at it like she’s helping too, I take it off in stages, waiting until she’s still before I proceed. That gets me through most of it with her head still. My problem is that I have no clue how t o make her be still in that last moment when it comes off. She does the same thing with the halter. I put the rope around her neck with the halter. When I take the last part of the rope off her neck, she still always has to “help”. Luckily she doesn’t head for the hills as soon as the halter comes off. She is also helpful putting halter and bridle on. Pauli and Darkhorse Personally, the only help I want from my horse while bridling is to do what I ask. I want ALL my horses to stand relaxed with their heads down to quietly accept me raising or lowering the bit from their mouth or the halter to their nose. To achieve these results, my responsibility to my horse is to know how to properly hold and correctly bridle and halter a horse. This is
We can’t expect our horse to wait for us at one particular moment and then allow him to take control at others. How is he to know the difference when we want his help and when we don’t? We have to be consistent when we are haltering as well as bridling. This
When the nose is leading the ears, the horse is resisting through his neck and poll.
means how to properly handle the bridle, the horse’s head and why we do it is so important. Step 2: I always ask the horse to give his head downward with a tiny pound of pressure. In the beginning he may raise it up…I just go up with him, not applying any extra pressure. When he begins to yield in the downward direction…I release immediately. When he is lowering his head…I move on to the next step. Giving the head downward with a very light pressure on the lead.
Step 3: I ask the horse to yield his head to the side. At this point he does not have to do it at the same time that he lowers his head. But I
being rude and disrespectful. How do we get our horses to be a little more patient and wait for us? Step 1: Realize that we have to be consistent.
Giving the nose to the side.
Giving the head downward with a very light touch of the hand behind the ears.
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want him to gradually give his head further to the side. Step 4: This is when I ask him to lower his
midwest horse digest
May 09
The beginning stage of a head hug.
head and give it to the side. By doing this he will most likely do one and then the other until he figures out that I am asking him to do both together and that he can do them both together. As he gets better, his head will drop further. Step 5: Head hugs. In this part of the lesson, the horse learns to drop his head further and give it further to the side. I feel the horses head loosely wrap around me as opposed to straining to pull away from me. Step 6: Horse holds head hug longer and longer. This is the part where the horse learns to hold his head longer and longer in the down and relaxed position. The key to getting him to
Full head hug, low and down…horse holds head down and relaxed with no assistance.
learn not to take it away is to wait until you feel him relax and lighten up your hands on him…but ready to immediately re-ask if he stiffens or begins to raise and straighten his head out. To add this to haltering and bridling and unhaltering and unbridling. When done correctly each and every time your horse will not only be a pleasure to halter and bridle, but he will learn to stand quietly without being restrained by equipment when you catch, release and untack him! Make the most of these short days and cold nights. Training a horse requires consistency
Comments on how horses think.
Intelligence The horse has an incredible mind and an equally extraordinary memory. However, you can never teach horses mathematics because they're not geared that way mentally. They're not on the same intelligence scale as human beings. Intelligence is relative in all species, and horses have their own form of intelligence. It is more instinctual. Something you don't have to think about is instinctive, and horses' instincts have been honed for millions of years. I don't know how good a horse's ability to reason is, but I've always said the horse is perfect for what he is and that's a horse.
Craig Cameron
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Learn to correctly handle the bridle.
and repetition…lots and lots of both- so don’t get discouraged! Be sure to check out our websites: www.Tracy-Porter.net or www.TJClibborn.com for our upcoming schedule! You can also contact us at 608-868-5432.
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May 09
One rider’s journey into the sport of distance riding
Sandy Noonan on Sassie crossing a creek at the Southeast Minnesota Ride at Forestville State Park, Preston, MN on Father's Day weekend.
By Sandy Noonan Here’s one rider’s journey into the sport of distance riding, specifically competitive trail riding. Several years ago I owned a 3 yr. old quarter horse that needed training, I just wanted a horse I could trail ride. After asking around, I got a couple phone numbers, made a some calls, and ultimately ended up meeting Darlene Molitor of Richmond, Minnesota. She owned a training/boarding facility, worked with trail horses, and sounded like someone I could trust to teach my horse what I wanted him to know. Koda spent 2 months in training, another month riding & me taking lessons, and the next several years being boarded at Valley Creek Farm…..I had met and made friends with several women also boarding horses at the farm. We spent many hours riding our horses together, hauling them to many of the Minnesota State Parks, Minnesota State Forests, Custer State Park in South Dakota, and embarking on many adventures full of fun & excitement. We seemed to like the same kind of trail riding; we discovered many new areas during our “Toole stomping”, (finding some deer trail & seeing where it ended up,
Tanya Meyer competes in the junior division of competitive trail riding. She must ride with a sponsor and is required to wear a helmet.
sometimes through very thick brush, more times than not we had a blast!). Somewhere along the line the subject of endurance and competitive trail riding came up; sounded like another great reason to ride, so I decided I would check it out. I started hanging around horse camp on the competition weekends, riding Koda on the marked trails, wishing I too could try it. Koda & I did a novice ride (they usually vary between 10 & 12 miles), and I have to admit, I was hooked. Because Koda was a quarter horse (they are sometimes too heavily muscled to do really well in competitive riding – especially on hot, humid days) I found myself looking for an Arabian. That’s when Sassie came into my life. I started competing on her in 2000 when she was 4 years old, trying to learn all I could
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Lori Brown on Vallies Nadeem an Arabain, and Joan Thiel on Lads Masterpiece a Missouri Fox Trotter move down the trail at Point Chaser held at St. Croix State Park near Hinkley, Minnesota.
about this sport; and here it is 2009 and realizing I still learn something every time I compete. Competitive trail riding is a distance riding event ridden within a set time period at speeds of 5? to 7 miles per hour. Horses are scored by veterinarians on such factors as pulse, respiration, soundness, fatigue and attitude. Endurance rides are typically 50 to 100 miles in length, and Limited Distance Endurance rides are 25 to 35 miles. Competitive trail riding appeals to me because it’s trail riding ‘with a twist’. Your horse goes through a vet check prior to riding, checking for soundness, pulse, respiration, wounds, etc. Ride management always conducts a rider’s meeting, handing out maps, pointing out where there is water, bridges, river crossings, or anything else that might need to be noted. A ride time of 4 to 4? hours for 25 miles is established, based on temperature, humidity, and conditions of the trail. Plates are posted at points in the trail where a turn might need to be made, ribbons are hung in the trees & bushes so we know what trail to follow, a two mile marker is posted, and a designated amount of ride time, with a 40 min. hold in the middle, is announced. It is up to us to figure out how to ride the designated trails, and get back to camp at the finish at the right time. How exciting!! Scoring is based on the condition of the horse during and at the end of the ride. When completing the first loop, the rider is given a card, with the ‘in time’ written on it. We then have 10 min. to water, feed, and brush our horse before their pulse & respiration are taken. After standing quietly for pulse and respiration (P&Rs), we then do a trot out checking for lameness. If your horse is deemed ‘fit to continue’, the vet will give the ok to finish the ride. At this time both the horse & rider get a 30 min. break, giving us time to eat
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breeze by someone’s trailer, or just seeking out the quiet after a long day, only to drift off to sleep thinking of all the things needed to be done to ride again tomorrow. Reflecting on these weekends are what help me get through the long, cold Midwestern winter days, dreaming of the warm sun shining down, the breeze blowing through the trees as we ride, all the wildlife we happen Dr. Dean Peterson checks for girth galls and Dr. Mary Lambert checks gut sounds during a final exam at Charity Cup Ride near Pillager, Minnesota.
Sheryl O'Brien, Anita Sinnott, Linda Goddard and Candy Barbo move down the trail at a working trot to make the completion time at Mosquito Run near Rogers, Minnesota.
something, get a drink, or just answer the call of nature. Upon leaving camp to finish the ride, we turn in our card, waiting for the announcement from the timer that we can leave. Once again we are on our way, following ribbons and plates, socializing with
These riders are waiting for the 10 minute pulse and respiration check. A variety of methods are used to relax the horse and decrease the heart rate so the horse gets better scores.
upon while riding, and waiting for two of my favorite words: Trail’s Open! Note: COME JOIN US! If this
sounds like a sport you’d be interested in trying, all breed of horses and mules are welcome to participate. Horses must by 4 years old to compete in rides of 30 miles or less. The must be 5 years old to compete in longer rides. All riders 18 and younger must where a helmet.Copy of current negative Coggins is required to be left with ride management. For more information: a ride schedule, rules, mentor lists, and tips go to www.umecra.com; www.mndra.com; www.gldrami.org; and www.umecra.com/draw.htm.
Beginning Your Conditioning Program for Competitive Trail Riding
Ken Meyer checks the pulse on TJ Edwards' mare.
our fellow riders, and just plain enjoying the day. When we’ve once again completed the designated miles, we end up in camp, once again receiving a card, taking the time to feed, water, and brush our horse, going through the P&R’s, the trot out, and a final exam from the vet. Scoring is based on a starting score of 400 points, with points deducted for high P&R’s, the trot out, fatigue, lameness, muscle pain, manners, lesions, the use of boots, and a possible time penalty for completing the trail either too fast or too slow. We have a 10 min. window to finish, with 5 min. on either side of the finish time before the time penalty would start to be a factor. We never know how we’ve managed to finish up until the awards and pot luck supper later that night. The winners are announced, with ribbons given through 6th place, and a completion prize for all who finished. With our bellies full, the winners having been announced, we all wander off for the night, either enjoying the conversation around a neighbor’s campfire, shooting the
First your horse must be at least 4 years old to compete in a competitive ride that is 30 miles or less. Your horse may have some type of physical conditioning, but usually not at the speed that is required for competitive trail. To begin, find an area: trail or roadside and mark off a distance of one mile. Warm your horse up, then try and trot or gait – a good working trot/gait – not a jog trot – for that entire mile. If you don’t make it, that’s okay, try again another day. If you have a three gaited horse, you will be posting the trot. When this seems easy for you and your horse, mark off a 3 mile trail. Warm your horse up, then try and trot the three miles, and try and complete it in a half hour. You’ll likely be walking some of this distance, that’s okay, but work toward a goal of 3 miles in a half hour. Once you have this accomplished several times, mark out 6 miles. Make the warm up and cool down of your horse part of your six mile ride, but try and get the whole thing done in an hour. Please note, every time you move up a step, you’ll likely not make your goal for the first few tries. Once your speed and time become easier, move up to the next step. When you can complete the 6 mile ride in an hour consistently, try to complete a 12 mile ride in two hours. This may be one of your more difficult steps. Just remember you and your horse are getting in shape together.
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And when you are able to do this consistently -12 miles in 2 hours - plan to enter a novice ride at a distance ride or clinic near you. Go to www.umecra.com and click on schedule. There are also rules and other important stuff listed there. Wisconsin, Minnesota and Michigan have affiliated distance clubs, and there are UMECRA (Upper Midwest Endurance and Competitive Rides) also in Illinois and one in Indiana. You are welcome to come check out a ride before you actually enter, OR call the ride manager ahead of time and offer your services as a volunteer. You’ll learn a lot before you even hit the trail! It will likely take you 6 – 8 weeks from the beginning of this program to your first novice ride. Some breeds take longer to condition, 10 – 12 weeks. This of course also depends on the previous condition of you and your horse! One of the biggest misconceptions about distance riding, is you need to ride every day. This is actually over conditioning. Conditioning 2 times a week is good, with 3 times being idea. Usually two six miles rides a week, plus a 12 to 15 mile ride, OR a 6 mile ride, a dressage lesson and a 12 – 15 miles during a week is a good goal for regularly competing in rides. Remember to give your horse a few days off their first “big” ride, as rest is important to healing aching muscles. Theresa Meyer Ride manager MnDRA I, Orrock, Minnesota
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May 09
DOES ARENA SIZE MATTER? by Monty Bruce
I get asked the question often: What size of arena do you prefer to train in? My answer: The bigger the better. In the north country that can be tough because of the winter months. We are confined to in-door arenas and some of them can be small. Small is better than nothing but as soon as I can, I am in a bigger out door arena or out side. There are several problems that can arise from using a small pen. Horses will tend to get chargey and pushy in a small pen; especially in reining maneuvers or fence work training. In our rundowns to stop, they will either get chargey or short out, not wanting to
free up and move out. Our horses are thinking: it’s such a short distance, the wall is right there, if I fly down there I’ll get to stop or they think the wall is so close I’m not going to run, so they move, bound up, with the stop on their mind. Lead changes are a big thing that can be tough in a small pen. When we ask for a lead change, our horses can get pushy and chargy because they know if they resist us a wall will come soon and they will have to turn, often times allowing them to get out of changing for us. Horses have to be loping free, relaxed and not pushing or leaning in order to change leads,lope circles, rundowns or stop effectively and smoothly. When they are in a small pen it is just natural they are going to lean on the walls. The solution…..wide open spaces. As soon as I can I get my horse out into the open spaces; such as a pasture or a bean field, where I have a lot of room to free up my horse and take the pushiness out of them. I’ll start off by loping circles, then put my hand down or turn loose of the reins and see where my horse will take me. Just let him go. If my horse drifts to the right I will pick up and pull him to the left. If he drifts or leans to the left, I will pull him to the right. Whichever way he pushes or leans, I will pull him the opposite way to eventually
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take all the push and lean out of them and teach our horse to stay right with us and to wait on us to tell them which way to go. I will also use a straight gravel road to help take the lean and push out of my horses when I am working on lead changes. A common problem when working on lead changes in a small pen is that the horse will get chargey and lean because they know if they get to the wall first it’s harder for you to change them and they have to turn. On a straight gravel road a horse gets chargey, pushey or speeds up, I let him and keep asking him to change. After about five miles of that he’s looking to slow down and back off because they start to realize that there is no fence to stop at or no end to this pen. He also has no way to judge when I will ask him for a lead change like they can in the arena to help take away the anticipation which removes the pushiness from the lead change. So keep in mind when we are training for lead changes, circles or rundowns ,If our horses get pushy or chargey, maybe it’s time to get into a big arena or better yet out into the wide open to help get our horses relaxed, freed up and take out some of the anticipation. Till next time, keep riding. Visit our website:www.montybruce.com
May 09
midwest horse digest
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midwest horse digest
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May 09
Trailer Safety
By Ken McNabb with Katherine Lindsey Meehan Last month, we covered teaching your horse to load in the trailer safely and calmly. Many times trailer loading problems are caused by a bad experience or injury to the
horse while he is being hauled, and problems such as these are often the hardest to fix. This month we will talk about trailer safety (inspecting and evaluating the components and features of your trailer), and trailering safely (how to make your horse’s experience while going down the road as safe and relaxing as possible). First, trailer safety. Most trailers have drop down windows, and frequently there is an option to drop the window but leave a barred barrier. I never travel with both the bars and the window down. I don’t like my horse going down the road with his head hanging out of the trailer. If you trailer with the window down and the bars up, I like to buy an aftermarket net that covers the entire window. Although the chances are slim, I don’t want to risk any debris flying in through the bars and hitting my horse as we travel.
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If you don’t have an aftermarket net, I would recommend traveling with the windows up, just slide the see through part of the window open to provide air flow. I will drop the windows in the un-occupied stalls if I don’t have a full trailer to increase air flow on a hot day. Walk around the outside of your trailer. Where are the tie rings in relation to the fenders? Many trailers have a rubber molding along the fender edge, and this is great. But even if my trailer does have a rubber fender molding, I will try to tie my horse at one of the rings that isn’t right above the fender. Walk around your trailer asking yourself “what presents an opportunity for my horse to hurt himself or get in a wreck? How can I lessen or eliminate this opportunity?” I like to be sure I have my trailer ready before I bring my horse up to it. The doors should be open, and tied or latched back so they won’t swing shut on me or my horse. Make sure the dividers are open and locked back. Check the trailer for any lose tack or equipment that could slide around or get in your horse’s way while he is in the trailer. Now, you’re ready to go get your horse.
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midwest horse digest
Next, we will talk about trailering safely. First, I want to mention what I believe is the most important piece of trailering safety equipment out there. It is the Equiface Saver, a multi-layer piece of protective headgear for your horse. You can learn more about the Equiface Saver on our web site, www.kenmcnabb.com, or at www.equifacesaver.com. Before loading your horse, put on the Equiface Saver and halter snugly, as well as any other safety equipment you like to use. Ideally, I don’t load my horse by stepping in to the trailer in front of him and leading him in. A safer and more ideal way to load is for your horse to get in ahead of you, as you stand outside the trailer door. Then you follow him in. Also, I like to just throw my horse’s lead rope out through the window bars and close the divider, then walk around to the window and tie him. This keeps my horse from hurting himself if he gets scared and pulls back before the divider is closed. When you are hauling horses, drive like you have a full cup of hot coffee on the dash, and you are trying not to spill any. Although speed is a factor in giving your horse a comfortable trip, what you really need to be careful of is sudden changes in speed, and taking corners too fast. Everything about your driving when you are hauling horses should be as smooth a nd predictable as possible. Before I have someone drive a trailer with horses for the first time, I like to take a drive with them riding in the trailer. I drive just as I normally would with horses. If you do this on a back road with your friends, it will change your perception of what your horse is dealing with back there. Personally, I prefer a slant load over a straight load trailer. In a slant load, your horse bumps in to the dividers with his sides when he comes off balance in a turn, start or stop. In a straight load I think he is more likely to hit his head as he balances since he is being thrown straight forward in a stop. Use heavy shavings rather than sawdust when you are bedding your trailer. Fine sawdust gets blowing around in the wind, and gets in your horse’s eyes, nose, and lungs. I never use food as a bribe to get my horse in the trailer, but I do like him to have hay and water available at all times when we are traveling. If you fill a water bucket only 2/3 full you won’t have much spill out, and your horse will likely drink quite a bit on the road if it is available to him. When you are considering buying a trailer, look closely at both the inside and outside. Check for any sharp edges in the horse area. As you consider, ask yourself “what can I see that could cause a wreck?” When you are hauling, drive as smoothly as you can. Stay safe with your horses, and until next time, may God bless the trails you ride.
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midwest horse digest
Tucked away in tiny Montrose, Minnesota just 40 minutes from the Mnpls/St. Paul airport, is Ro & Me, LLC, an equine facility that rivals any of the finest barns in Kentucky. Dedicated to breeding, raising and showing fine American Saddlebreds, owners Stuart and Romy Ackerberg, have put passion and commitment into the breed. Over the past 17 years their horses have excelled in multiple disciplines and divisions. This Midwest facility prides itself on exceptional training, nutrition and breeding programs that result in the utmost potential in their young and finished stock. One would never know from the perpetual optimism that emanates from the Ackerbergs that their present day state of the art facility stands amongst the ghosts of tragedy. On July 30th, 2007 the family experienced every horseman’s nightmare when a fire raged through their stable, claiming the lives of seven Saddlebreds, including four show horses belonging to daughters Morgan and Jordyn Broten. Romy Ackerberg credits a fast-acting daytime staff for their heroic efforts in successfully evacuating the other fifty-three horses from the stable, including two stallions and several mares with foals. During the blaze and immediately following the aftermath, the equine com-munity banded together to help with everything from feed and supplies, boxes of halters & lead ropes to temporary stabling for Ro & Me, LLC, a testament to the good will of horse people everywhere. Friends can recount the grace and strength with which this family faced the challenges ahead in the wake of that devastating fire. Aside from the valuable horses, the barn was a complete loss, including riding and driving equipment, buggies and carriages, breeding lab equipment, computers, valuable breeding and office records and of course the sort of memorabilia that insurance could never replace. But even with the severity of this tragedy, Romy and her family refused to crumble. I remember talking to her via phone as she was en route to the hospital that afternoon with her daughters to be treated for smoke inhalation, and to quiet labor contractions that had begun (Romy was eight months pregnant at the time, and thankfully nothing happened to her or her beautiful baby boy, Peyton, safely delivered just over a month later). While anxiety and sorrow for the Ackerbergs overwhelmed those close to them, the family remained steady, centered, and calm as they recalled the tragic events. “We’re all okay, and that’s the most important thing,” Romy asserted. Indeed, she herself was lucky to be reporting in person,
what had happened, as fear and adrenaline had carried her into the stable in an attempt to free the last of the entrapped horses. “But I just ran into a black wall of smoke,” she told me without a quaver to her voice, “and after one breath it just knocked me to my knees. My body refused to go a step further into the barn.” Now, Romy Ackerberg is not just a sidelines owner. Her knowledge of bloodlines and show ring history is impressive to say the least, and her involvement with her horses is a personal one. She rarely misses a foaling, and that is saying something since there is an average of twenty to thirty Saddlebred foals born per year at Ro & Me, LLC. “Every time a foal is born, it’s like Christmas. It never gets old,” says Romy, and one can hear the smile in her voice. She handles and trains their futurity foals, is instrumental in the training direction of their prospects, and home coaches her daughters in their individual show ring divisions. Furthermore, if children are a reflection of our integrity as adults, then hats off to Stuart and Romy Ackerberg. Their children, of which there are six, are refreshingly unspoiled in spirit and work ethic, and they shoulder all the horse show responsibilities for which the rest of us usually tip our grooms. Romy sets a wonderful example of attitude not only for her family, but for anyone that spends time around her, as she is a humbling whirlwind of positive energy. This year, along with some new and improved changes to the facility, the Ackerbergs decided to welcome professional trainer Mike Breeggemann into the mix. Born and raised in Minnesota, Breeggemann had spent the majority of his training career outside of MN, so coming to Ro & Me, LLC was like a sort of homecoming. “Mike has really fit in well here,” Romy compliments sincerely of her new trainer. “He takes his times with the young stock and agrees with our philosophy to find the individual horse’s niche rather than try to make a horse into something it wasn’t born to become.” Ro & Me, LLC stands American Saddlebred Grand National breeding stallion Trust Fund, a World Champion producing sire whose get have landed him a top ten spot on the 2008 Futurity Sire rankings, and who is climbing the ranks of performance sire rankings every year. Ro & Me, LLC has owned and managed this stallion since he was three. Trust Fund is now thirteen years old, a relatively young age for a stallion with little show ring exposure of his own to have sired several World Champions and be revered as one of the top breeding stallions in the industry. His foals reflect the combined genetic potential of his five-time World Champion five-gaited sire, Attache’s Liquid Asset, and his
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six-time World Champion three-gaited and fine harness dam, Stonewall’s Crimson and Clover. Foals by Trust Fund exhibit powerful hind motion, stunning neck and head-sets, and big beautiful eyes that convey intelligence and kindness. Their trainability and good working attitude make them highly versatile, and Ro & Me, LLC has sold horses by Trust Fund that have gone on to find noteworthy success as five- and three-gaited, fine harness, dressage and even fancy carriage horses. At the World Championship Horse Show in 2008 in the aftermath of their fire the Ackerberg family was thrilled to see three more of their homebreds ridden to blue ribbons for their respective owners, two of which bested their fields in highly acclaimed Equitation divisions and another that turned heads in the ThreeGaited Junior Division. For the Ackerbergs, it is the ultimate culmination of efforts to watch satisfied customers enjoying a victory pass adorned with tri-color ribbon aboard happy, healthy horses bred and raised by Ro & Me, LLC. Anyone that knows Romy Ackerberg will tell you that she has a personality unlike any other. She is that kind of person that leaves you feeling elevated when you didn’t even know you needed the lift. She is never without that engaging, contagious smile that she has gifted to her children. Her enthusiasm for her horses is genuine due to their innate quality of spirit, regardless of their age or discipline. “We’re really excited to expose Ro & Me, LLC to more horse enthusiasts in our state and surrounding areas through Midwest Horse Digest,” says Romy. “Though certainly our greatest market to date has been Kentucky and many other prominent Saddlebred regions, we can offer a lot of opportunities for fellow Midwesterners to find horses of any discipline that they will be wholly satisfied with.” With the completion of their new facility, Ro & Me, LLC is going forth with a breeding program that promises an even more exciting future. The expression ‘state-of-the-art’ tends to be overused in print, but in this case it is truly applicable. At the same time that Ro & Me, LLC can be called state-of-the-art, it retains a magical, welcoming element that... well, you’ll just have to see it. The Ackerberg family and Ro & Me, LLC would like to extend an invitation to the Midwest Horse Digest subscribers to come and experi-ence the quality, versatility, and spirit of the American Saddlebred. You’ll leave this unique facility feeling refreshed, energized, and educated about what this beautiful breed can bring into your life.
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The Mustang Competition at the Wisconsin Horse Fair The competition at the Wisconsin Horse Fair was tough, but I have to say that I was with some really good people. Really top quality horse trainers and everyone was willing to help everyone even though the competitive spirit was there, it wasn’t a hinderance or obsacle to camaraderie. It was a very good group of people who participated in the event. There was a total of 33 horses and the top 30 were very well done. The whole experience was phenomenal. I ended up thirteenth, which was disappointing for me but was not due to the horse. It was due to the idiot on her back. Making wrong turns costs you points, but Kickstart performed nicely, just as I knew she would, so it was rider error not horse problems or anything she did. Kickstart got as high of a score as you could on body condition. When I train a horse I train the whole horse, so with 3 months of hard work her body condition really showed off all the hard work she had put into the training. In the in-hand trail course we had a little problem because of my bad knee, so we lost some points there, but she did everything she was supposed to do. In the riding course she picked up
good, did her lead changes very smoothly, did her turnarounds well, went over the bridge without hesitation and side passing through the cones she did really well. In the free style she did lead changes, loping, moving her hip and her shoulder, had a tarp on her tail, side passed nicely, two tracking went well. The crowd was reall pleased with her performance, hooting and hollering and clapping., which did not bother her at all. I had been hauling her around the country to different shows, one in Mississippi and one in South Dakota and a few other shows as well so she was used to the crowds and the noise. A few horses had issues with the noise. Some of the trainers were able to prepare their horses for the noise and crowds and some were not, so a few horses had issues with the hollering and clapping in the auditorium. I was not in the top ten, so at that point we were done except for selling our horses at the auction. That had me pretty blue, as we had developed a pretty close relationship and bonded well. To be honest, when I prepared for the sale I did not ride her through, I let her roll in the mud, I wanted this horse but she was not really in my budget. They handed me the mike to tell about Kickstart and I said
”She kicks, she bites and she ain’t worth a damn, don’t bid on her” Course I had to say it with a hint of a smile cause anyone who had seen the competition and had seen her go new better. People were laughing and clapping. She laid down and rolled 4 times in the process of me trying to down play her ability. She was very comfortable with me and with the environment. The bidding started and it wasn’t long before it got out of my ability to buy her. I was heartbroken and walked outside of the pen when it was done, quite disappointed to have to part with her, I was pretty close to tears, as I had really bonded with this horse. I was standing there talking to TJ Clibborn, when one of my clients came up with the paperwork in hand and gave me the horse saying “Here’s her paperwork and here’s your horse.” What a blessing that was! So now Kickstart is on a 30 day sabbatical and when that is done she will be trained for roping, ranch horse versatility and extreme trail, my plan being to make her my signature horse working with her to make her a well rounded horse. I would like to thank Michelle, my wife and Emma, my daughter, for all their patience and support during this whole process of training and traveling with Kickstart. Addie for all her hard work, grooming and caring for Kickstart at the shows, riding her down and all the extra work she took on during this intense time of training for this event. The Meyers family for all their support and a special thanks to my very good friends TJ Clibborn and Tracy Porter for their support and friendship during the process of training, during the challenge and just for being friends. Dennis Auslam is the owner/operator of Redwood Stables in Morton, MN. He trains both horse and rider through lessons and clinics and runs a regular schedule of clinics in Confidence Building, Horsemanship and Cattle Work and has recently added a Challenge Trail Course to his facility. He hosts clinics at his facility and also does outside clinics. If you are interested in hosting a clinic please contact us. If you are interested in attending a clinic you can check out our clinic schedule on the website. Call 507-430-0342 or email him at redwoodstables@mvtvwireless.com. We invite you to visit the website at ww.redwoodstables.com for more information.
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May 09
midwest horse digest
Ask Mary: What does the term “Having a balanced seat mean? And how do I get one?” Balanced Seat The key to staying on your horse (not falling off) is developing a balanced seat and good posture. Your safety in the saddle is directly related to the balance and security of your seat. Most falls occur when the rider is out of position and lose their balance. Riding with shoulder, hips and heels in straight alignment balances the rider. Your ankles should be in a relaxed position with the ball of your foot resting on the stirrup. Heel slightly lower than the toe. Allow your foot to gently rest on the stirrup don’t brace or push off your stirrup iron. Gripping with your knees or bracing with your feet, locks your joints and creates tension and bouncing. Relax your joints and move your body in rhythm with your horse. How do you develop a balanced seat? First, check your saddle. Do the fenders allow your legs to lie naturally in a straight line down from your hips? Alternatively, are they placed too far forward so your feet are out in front of you? If they too far forward, this places the rider in what we call a chair seat. Most saddles can be adjusted so the fender can be slid forward or back. Make an adjustment if you need too. Also, check that the seat sits level. Barrel saddles for example are designed for barrel racing in order to keep the barrel racer glued in the saddle for those
fast, tight turns not trail riding for hours so it has more of a sloped seat. Second, have a friend or an instructor watch you ride and give you suggestions on your posture. An even better idea is to video tape your riding so you can actually see how your posture is. Often times we think our legs are underneath us when actually they are not. We carry our bad posture habits right into our riding position. Having an instructor or friend lunge you or send you around the round pen is a great way to work on posture and balanced riding. It takes away our security blanket (the reins) and teaches us to ride in balance with our horse. Always have the bridle and reins on the horse in case he spooks. However, when you are practicing, drop the reins on your horse’s neck and ride with your hands on your hips or out to your side or behind your back. First find your balance at the halt by leaning forward and backward until you are right in the middle of your saddle then align your shoulders, hips and heels in a straight vertical line.
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25 When you are comfortable at the halt move on to the walk, then progress to carrying that good posture
into the trot and canter. Increase your Knowledge I’m keen on learning. It is amazing, the more you learn the better you ride and the happier your horse is. Take a riding lesson, read a book or watch a video. Lunge lessons are a great tool to developing a balanced seat. You can focus on your body position and not worry about steering the horse. Video taping your riding is a good means to evaluate your riding skills. Learning to have a balanced seat while riding takes some time but its well worth the effort. Mary is a Mounted Police instructor and a fully insured ARICP riding instructor. She devotes her creative energy to developing customized training programs to improve show ring performance, mount obedience and despooking trail horses utilizing training methods used in training police horses. Visit her website at www.riderselite.com or email your questions to Mary at:mary@riderselite.com
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Want to Win:
How the Judge “Sees” a Class 1. Fact: The best horse does not always win the class! The responsibility of a Judge is to assess the quality of horses presented before them. We don’t have time to “look” for horses in a crowd or consider what they “could” be next year. We judge what we see, during one class, on that particular day. ©2009 by Jennifer Lindgren “The Judge is blind! That Judge needs glasses! Did he even watch that class?” Everyone who competes with horses disagrees with a Judge from time to time. Some even disagree with the Judges all of the time. Disagreeing and complaining is a waste of time and energy. If you really want to win, direct your energy towards learning how a Judge views and analyzes a class. A “scored” class is judged differently than a “pleasure” or performance class. Scored classes (horsemanship, reining, trail, showmanship, longe line, etc.) allow each horse or competitor to be evaluated individually. The Judge is able to give the competitor 100% of his attention. The entire pattern or presentation gets evaluated. For example, in reining the Judges keep an average performance in mind (score of 70) and the horse either earns or loses ‘points’ while being evaluated against that standard. Many exhibitors feel that scored classes have more clearly defined expectations. You can view Judge’s score cards and class specifications at Breed websites such as AQHA, AHA, NRHA, NSBA, etc.
respect those exhibitors who are subtle, gentle and discreet. We penalize those who are rash, rough, and disrespectful.
2. Fact: The Judge does not and cannot watch you during your entire pleasure class. It may feel like forever to you, but it goes very quickly for us. We watch for a few seconds at a time, and then focus on another horse. But, we do watch the horses at the top of the card much more than those who won’t be considered for a In a performance class, your entrance is your best placing. If you want to get a feel for chance to impress the Judge. This Judge gives 100% how different the view is from cen- of his attention to quickly assess the quality of this ter ring, act as ringmaster at an western pleasure horse. By the time the class is on Judges usually have their favorites. Photo open show. A full day in the dust the reverse, courtesy: American Quarter Horse Journal. will give you a new perspective. 3. Fact: Your first impression is hard to change. Judges are required to assess horses quickly and efficiently. We use your entrance and first few passes to classify you
5. Fact: Transitions are extremely important. Transitions tell us how well trained your horse is. We watch your cues, and your horse’s feet, frame, headset & attitude. Pinned ears, a swishing tail, or raised head let us know he isn’t a willing partner. Even one poor transition can cause you to lose a tough class. 6. Fact: Outfits do matter. They help the judge notice you across the ring and remember you in a large class. You don’t need glitz and glam, just a well fitted, clean look. Try to pick a unique color that flatters both you and your horse. Looking clean and professional will always get you noticed.
Pleasure or performance class entries are evaluated against one At open shows, Judges spend long days in the hot sun. The open arena another. The way you enables them to see and hear everything. With the next class already present your horse to waiting at the gate, the Judge quickly marks her card while walking to the Judge is as impor7. Fact: Judges are hand it in. Sorensen photo. tant as the quality of required to know the Rules, your horse’s performance. The Judge is only Trends, & Tricks. You should too! Rules are able to evaluate a portion of your performance into the top, middle or bottom of class. By the available at every breed website, read them. and it is your responsibility to make sure your reverse, we usually have our favorites. horse is perfect every time he is seen. 4. Fact: No horse is perfect! Hiding their 8. Fact: Judges are both human and horsePlacings in pleasure classes are reflective of faults and mistakes from the Judge is a skill man. We are told to judge only what we see in the ring once the gate is closed. Honestly, we what the Judge has and has not seen. developed after years in the show ring. We see and hear much more than people realize.
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midwest horse digest
It is hard to forget what happens at the ingate. Seeing you yank, shank, spur, and hit your horse without reason doesn’t make us think very much of you. A small thank you or smile makes us feel appreciated. Stories of
handed a popsicle to me and said thank you. She made my day. 9. Fact: We don’t mind answering your questions. But, shows need to run on schedule and we are under pressure from the show committee to stay on that schedule. We can’t chat with you while horses are waiting in the ring. Tell the office you want to talk to the Judge and they will let you know when to come back. “What can I do to improve?” is a much better question than “Why didn’t you place me?” We want you to do well and will help if we can.
Reining Judges are able to focus 100% on the horse's performance. The scribe (seated next to the Judge) marks down the penalties and scores so the Judge never has to look away from the horse. Wright photo of Brian Scoggins.
disrespect and rudeness get exchanged, and remembered for Years! I still remember one extremely hot day when a young girl (who hadn’t placed well) came to the ring and asked to talk to me. She reached through the fence,
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GOOD LUCK & RIDE SAFE! Jennifer Lindgren has been an All-Breed Judge since 1985. She is an experienced competitor who has earned Regional and national awards in Halter, Western Equitation and Hunter. She loves all breeds of horses and keeps her private collection in Grant Park, Il. Contact: jenlind22@msn.com Copyright 2009 by Jennifer Lindgren
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New MTA Web Site
We are very happy to introduce the new MTA web site. We have designed this site, using updated tools and design elements. This will allow us to now have a proper framework to keep you better informed about Minnesota racing, MTA activities, member successes and sales. It will also contain better links to other sites that allow you to simply access detailed information, such as the interactive stakes race detail available on the Canterbury Park web site. Our first order of business is to inform you of the upcoming Two Year Olds and Unraced Thoroughbred Sale, May 16, 2009. The following link, which you simply have click on, will take you directly to the MTA web site sales page which contains the most current information regarding our sale. We hope you find it interesting and helpful. http://www.mtassoc.com/sales.html Minnesota Thoroughbred Association Kay King, MTA Executive Director
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ARHA World Show Brings Together Top Ranch Horses and Riders June 22-27 More than 500 horses Suds Party sponsored by and 3,600 entries are expected to the Indiana Ranch Horse pack the fifth annual American Association. Tickets to win Ranch Horse Association World a Quarter Horse filly Show, to be held at Miller donated by Lost Creek Coliseum in Murfreesboro, Tenn., Cattle Company are availJune 22 to 27, 2009. able from now until June Approximately $48,000 in awards 26; the $10 donation supis up for grabs, including cash ports the Youth awards, tack, equipment and troScholarship Fund. phy buckles. High-point champiFormed in ons in the three divisions—Open, 2004, the American Ranch Amateur and Youth—win a saddle Horse Association from Reinsman and a custom promotes the abilities Lone Star Silversmith trophy buckof the all-around versatile le; high-point reserve winners will working horse in a positive receive a headstall from Reinsman atmosphere where westand a custom Lone Star ern tradition is genuinely Silversmith buckle. honored. Rapidly growing All ARHA-registered with more than 7,000 horses are eligible to compete in members, ARHA hosts The American Ranch Horse Association World Show comes to Murfreesboro, Tenn., the 104 cattle work, performance competitions, clinics and June 22-27, 2009. Credit: Cool Shot! Photography and conformation classes at the educational events World Show. The deadline for prethroughout the year. sponsored by the South Kentucky Ranch entries and stall reservations is May 22. Horse Association. New at the competition this year is a For youth, there will be a calf For more information about the ARHA World Select Ranch Riding class for riders 50 and scramble with a $50 savings bond prize, Show, visit www.americanranchhorse.net or older. The ARHA 3-Year-Old Ranch Horse dummy roping with rope bags and ropes given call 606-271-2963. Challenge carries a $1,000 added bonus, and to winners in both age divisions, and a Dog N the Ranch Riding and Reining Sweepstakes classes have a payback of 50 percent of entries plus $300; winners also receive a Cruisin’ Cooler from Tub’s Tack. The ARHA Ranch Horse Versatility competition will be offered for Open, Amateur and Youth exhibitors who enter five classes: Conformation, Ranch Riding, Trail, Working Ranch Horse and Ranch Cutting. Each division winner will receive a custom Lone Star Silversmith trophy buckle and a show pad from Diamond Wool Saddle Pads; reserve winners will receive a custom Lone Star Silversmith buckle. World Show judges are David Terrell, of Millington, Tenn.; Gene Ray Stewart, of Owenton, Ky.; Curt Summers, of Litchfield, Ill.; and Dennis Brown, of Booneville, Ind. Show sponsors include Co-Op, Reinsman, Segundo Insurance, Classic Equine, Rattler, Classic Ropes, Neogen, Diamond Wool Saddle Pads, Hoofbeats magazine, Tub's Tack, Hallway Feeds, Tennessee Equine Hospital, Lazy K Farms and Lone Star Silversmith. Spectators are welcome at the ARHA World Show at no charge. Activities for all to enjoy include the Western Trade Show with tack, art, clothing, trailers and more, plus social events each day, including an ice cream social sponsored by the Missouri Ranch Horse Association, a BBQ reception sponsored by the Volunteer Ranch Horse Association, a GetTogether Party sponsored by KentuckyTennessee Ranch Horse Association, a pizza party sponsored by Playguns Travelena, and a pancake breakfast and corn hole tournament
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Saddle up For St. Judes Upcoming Events in Your Area St Jude's Children Hospital Fundraiser Trail Ride & Dance at Outback Ranch in Houston, MN. on June 12, 2009 to June 13, 2009. Call 507896-5550 or 507-896-5253 or email info@outbackranch.net, www.outbackranch.net Schedule: •Friday night 7-11 PM Karaoke and video music •Saturday 10AM Trail Ride; 1 Pm Sawdust Pile & Calf Scramble with a fun horse event of some kind to follow?!?! •3-4:30PM Tim solo acoustic live entertain-
ment •5:30-7:30 Tim & the Floppy Cowboys PM Live Entertainment • 8-midnight a newly formed regional band that performs country, classic rock and ECT... the name of the band will be released soon. Please keep checking back. You won't want o miss this great new band!! $10 per person for the whole day: Kids 12 & under Free. Please come support St Jude's Children Hospital. Free will donations are greatly appreciated!! _____________________ Saddle Up for St Judes on June 5th and 6th at Lost /valey Lake Resort in Owensville, MO. Contact peakabuck@yahoo.com or call Paula
READY-TO-RIDE GUIDE ILLINOIS - Trail Rides 34 Ranch & Camp, Herod, IL. 618-264-2141 www.34ranch.com Bay Creek Wilderness Rides, Shawnee National Forest, Simpson, IL.; 618-695-2670 www.baycreekranch.com Bear Ranch Horse Camp, Eddyville, IL.; Shawnee National Forest, 618-672-4249, www.bearbranch.com Cedar Lake Ranch, LLC, Vienna, IL.; 618-695-2600, www.cedarlakeranchllc.com Circle B Ranch HOrse Camp, Eddyville, IL.; 618-672-4748, www.circlebranch.com Double M Campground, Junction, IL.; 618-275-4440, www.doublemcampground.com Jim Edgar Panther Creek, IL.; 217-452-7741 Little Lusk Trail Lodge, Harrisburg, IL.; 618-672-4303 One Horse Gap Trail Ride, New Hope Hill, IL.; 618-264-7433,
www.onehorsegap.com Riding Vacations 34 Ranch & Camp, Herod, IL. 618-264-2141 www.34ranch.com Hayes Canyon Campground, Eddyville, IL.; 618-672-4751 www.hayescanyon.com Overnight Stabling 34 Ranch & Camp, Herod, IL. 618-264-2141, www.34ranch.com Public Lands Argle Lake State Park, Colchester, IL.; 309-776-3422 Big River State Forest, Keithsburg, IL.; 309-374-2496 Chain Lakes State Park, Spring Grove, IL.; 847-587-5512 Clinton Lake State Recreation Area, DeWitt, IL.; 217-935-8722 Fox Ridge State Park, Charleston, IL. 217-345-6416
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at 314-606-9370. Schedule: •Friday - 7pm-1st annual Fun Show • Saturday - 8:30-10am Break Away Roping Clinic, $2.00 per chance at roping the mechanical calf • 12pm-Trail Ride • 4pm - Live Auction & Hog Roast (bring covered dish to share) Sponshorship required to ride. Negative Coggins required. Call for sponsorship sheet. www.lostvalleylake.com _________________ Saddle Up for St. Judes on June 20, 2009 at Jubilee State Park, Brimfield, IL. Contact John Soehn at 309-645-6218 for info. •Ride - 9am •Lunch - Noon • Grand Auction 1:00 Horse Trainer - Dennis Auslam will work with your horse - 30.00 donation Trick Horse Riding with TJ Clibborn and Tracy Porter. Great Family Fun! Horses To Rent! Giant CityState Park, Makanda, IL.; 618-457-4836 Hennepin Canal Parkway State Park, Sheffield, IL.; 815-454-2328 Kankakee River State Park, Bourbonnais, IL.; 815-933-1383 Lake Le-Aqua-Ne State Park, Bourbonnais, IL.; 815-369-4282 MatthiessenState Park, Utica, IL.; 815-667-4868 Middle Fork State Fish and Wildlife Area, Collison, IL.; 217-442-4915 Moraine View State Park, Leroy, IL.; 309-724-8043 Newton Lake State Fish & Wildlife Area, Newton, IL.; 618-783-3478 Pere Marquette State Park, Grafton, IL.; 618-786-2156 Rock Cut State Park, Loves Park, IL.; 815-885-3311 Shawnee National Forest, Harrisburg, IL.; 618-253-7114 Weinbrg-King State Park, Augusta, IL.; 217-392-2345 IOWA - Trail Rides Amana Trail Ride, Amana Colonies, Amana, IA.; 319-462-2206, www.amanatrailride.com Overnight Stabling Aunt Reba’s Bed and Breakfast, Larchwood, MN.; 712-478-4042 or 888-282-5349: www.auntrebas.com Iowa Bunkhouse, Audubon, IA.; May-September: 712-773-2737 JM4 Rand, Arena, Horse Hotel, Bed and Breakfast, Crescent, IA.; 712-328-7593, www.JM4Ranch.com Lewis Bottom Farms, Shellsburg, IA.; 319-436-3323, www.lewisbottomsfarms.com MINNESOTA - Trail Rides Bush Wacker Trail Ride Club, Huntersville Fall Trail Ride, Huntersville, MN.; 218-894-0056 Outback Ranch, Inc., Houston, MN.; 507-896-5550, www.outbackranch.com Overnight Stabling Outback Ranch, Inc., Houston, MN.; 507-896-5550, www.outbackranch.com
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midwest horse digest
A Time To Celebrate Farriers The 11th annual National Farriers Week is the time to recognize the contributions farriers make to the equine community Regardless of whether your horse is a prized jumper, speedy barrel racer or steadfast backyard companion, you know the importance of a farrier to its well being. Without a horseshoer’s work and input, investors might miss out on a Kentucky Derby competitor or you could lose your companion for a weekend trail ride. There is truth in the adage, “no hoof, no horse.” That is why American Farriers Journal launched National Farriers Week 11 years ago. We think it is important for horse owners, trainers, riders, grooms and others in the equine community to say thanks for all of the terrific work farriers do throughout the year. From July 12 to 18, people in all facets of the equine industry are encouraged to acknowledge the dedication and hard work of farriers. Consider the many hats they are asked to wear. Not only do they perform Public Lands Arrow Head State Park, Tower, MN.; 218-753-6256 Chippewa National Forest, Deer River, MN.; 218-246-2123 Heartland State Trail, Nevis, MN.; 218-652-4054 Lake Louise State Park, LeRoy, MN.; 507-324-5249 Maplewood State Park, Pelican Rapids, MN.; 218-863-8383 North Shore State Trail, Two Harbors, MN.; 218-834-5238 Pillsbury State Forest, Brainerd, MN.; 218-828,2557 Taconite State Trail, Tower, MN.; 218-753-2580 ext.250 NORTH DAKOTA - Trail Rides Badlands Trail Rides, Killdeer, ND.; 701-764-8000, www.badlandstrailrides.com Tennessee Walking Horse Associaiton of North Dakota Trail Ride, Grassy Butte/Turtle River State Park, 701-947-2190 Riding Vacations Knife River Ranch Vacations, Golden Valley, ND.; 701-983-4290, www.kniferiverranch.com Little Knife Outfitters, Watford City, ND.; 701973-4331, www.littleknifeoutfitters.com Public Lands Fort Ransom State Park, Fort Ransom, ND.; 701-973-4331 SOUTH DAKOTA - Trail Rides Broken Arrow Horse Camp, Custer, SD: 605673-4471, www.brokenarrowcampground.com Hay Creek Ranch, Nemo, SD: 605-578-1142, www.haycreekranch.net Krieger Cattle Company, Burke, SD: 605-775-2113 Riding Vacations Bitter Sweet Ranch and Camp, HillCity, SD: 605-574-2324, wwwbitterseetranchcamp.com Broken Arrow Horse Camp, Custer,SD: 605-673-4471, www.brokenarrowcampground.com Hay Creek Ranch, Nemo, SD: 605-578-1142, www.haycreekranch.net
normal shoeing and trimmings, but they also often find themselves serving as consultants to horse owners, answering questions and giving advice on everything from feed to barn conditions to veterinarian recommendations. They work in the elements of frigid winters and scorching summers. They sacrifice their bodies and health for the labor, all while trying to avoid the many dangerous situations the job brings. Good shoers are working diligently to improve their footcare knowledge through study and clinics — they strive to become better professionals. Showing Your Thanks If you have a farrier who deserves acknowledgment for his or her dedication and professionalism, you can download a recognition certificate at www.americanfarriers.com/ff/certif. Complete this form and give it to your shoer sometime during this July week. In addition, here are a few ideas of how you (or with others from the barn) can show your farrier a token of appreciation: • A gift certificate to the local farrier
Gunsel Horse Adventures, Rapic City, SD 605-343-7608, www.gusdelhorseadventures.com Salt Camp Cabins and Bed and Breakfast, Rosebud, SD: 605-747-2206, saltcamp@gwtc.net WISCONSIN - Trail Rides Bremer Creek LLD, Mondovi, WI.; 608-323-3092, www.bremercreek.com Riding Vacations Bremer Creek LLD, Mondovi, WI.; 608-323-3092, www.bremercreek.com Palmquist Farm, Brantwood, WI.; 715-564-2558, www.palmquistfarm.com Spur of the Moment Ranch,LLC,Mountain, WI.;800-644-8783. www.spurofthemomentranch.org Public Lands Black River State Park, Black River Falls, WI; 715-284-4103 Brule River State Forest, Douglas County, WI.; 715-372-4866 Castle Rock Trails, Arkdale, WI.; 608-564-2233 Governor Dodge State Park ,Dodgeville, WI.; 608-935-2315 Haymeadow Flowage, Chippewa Falls, WI.; 715-726-7880 Kerrle Moraine State Forest, Campbellsport WI.; 262-626-2116; 262-594-6200 Lake Wissota State Park, Chippewa Falls;715382-4574 Token Creek County Park, Madison,WI.; 608-246-3896 Wild Rock Park, Neilsville, WI.; 715-743-5140
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supply store • A voucher for a free wash or oil change for the farrier’s truck at a full-service car wash •Take the horseshoer out for lunch or dinner • Reward the shoer with a subscription or continuation of their subscription to American Farriers Journal • A massage at a local spa • Commit yourself to make sure the horse is ready in its stall before the farrier arrives. Also, show your gratitude for your horseshoer by entering him or her into a drawing from American Farriers Journal. Include your farrier’s name, mailing address and a short paragraph describing why you are thankful for his or her work. E-mail your submission to jmcgovern@lesspub.com by June 25, 2009. Your farrier could win a collection of American Farriers Journal books or a subscription to the magazine. The winners will be announced during National Farriers Week. We will also publish each statement of appreciation with your and the farrier’s names at this time. For more information or to obtain images of farriers at work, e-mail jmcgovern@lesspub.com.
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May 09
midwest horse digest Issues from the Saddle
Good on trail, bad in the arena by Julie Goodnight
Question: Dear Julie, I recently purchased my second horse, a twelve-year-old gelding. He has impeccable ground manners and is a pleasure to ride on trails but as soon as you get him in an arena it's a disaster. He is unmanageable beyond a walk for a period of time. By unmanageable I mean that he leans on my hands so much that I can't slow him down at all and we end up full gallop at a cavaletti or around and around the arena. I have tried many thing such as "sponge hands" to collect him and keep him from leaning on me, circling smaller and smaller, pulling back on one rein and pulling his nose to my knee with
no luck. Selling him is not an option as I am rather attached and wouldn't sell him even if I couldn't ride him. Any advice you can give me would be greatly appreciated. All of his tack has been checked and fits, his teeth do not need floated, and he isn't lame. I consider my self a competent rider and he is using a kimberwicke jointed bit. Thanks a lot. Heidi Answer: Heidi, It sounds to me like you have a horse that is untrained. He knows what to do out on a trail because that is pretty obvious and not too complicated. There are many excellent trail horses that do not know what to do in the arena and visa versa. He has probably never been asked to collect or circle or stay on the rail and he is out of his element. Sounds like you need to embark on a campaign to train him for the arena. You could take him to a trainer for 30-60 days or do it yourself. The first thing I would do is put him in a plain snaffle and teach him to give to the bit. I like to use an "elbow pull" which is a line that goes over the poll, through the rings of the bit (on each side), under the legs and attaches to the saddle. Work the horse in the round pen until he learns to give to the bit. He will eventually learn that when he drops his head down and in, the pressure on his mouth goes away. Then he has to learn to give laterally to the bit: when you pick up the right rein, he should bend his neck right and visa versa. He also has to learn to stop with your weight and maintain a steady speed when asked and steer. It may seem odd to think about, but a trail horse doesn't really have to know these things. They just follow along the trail or follow other horses at whatever speed is asked. Horses do this quite naturally; it does not require much training. On the
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other hand, going around in circles in the arena makes little or no sense to a horse. It is quite possible that whatever work your horse has had in the arena, gave him a bad taste for arena work and he shuts down and becomes resistant when you ride in there because he vies it as a confusing and frightening place. Lots of horses work better out of the arena, because of the training baggage that surfaces when they are in the arena. Horses are very keen to associate a place with a memory or emotion. I think you need to start over with this horse in the arena as if he was never ridden before. Do not assume he knows anything. As well mannered as he is on the ground and on the trail, he would act that way in the arena too if he knew how. Be patient and break everything down into the smallest components and spend whatever time it takes; do not rush him. I suspect he will progress pretty quickly since he is so cooperative in every other way. Julie Goodnight has more than a quarter-century of horse training experience. Her varied background ranges from dressage and jumping to racing, reining, colt-starting, and wilderness riding. She communicates clearly with horses and riders in any discipline and travels coast-to-coast and beyond to film her television show, Horse Master, and to appear at horse expos, conferences and clinics.publications and websites. Visit www.JulieGoodnight.com. Julie Goodnight Natural Horsemanship TrainingTM Goodnight Training Stables, Inc.TM PO Box 397, Poncha Springs, Colorado 81242 Phone: 719-530-0531 • 800-225-8827
Did you know‌ If riding your horse gets you out of breath you need to get fit to ride. It takes a reduction of 3500 calories to lose a pound. Increasing your activity level by 350 calories per day, 5 days a week will allow you to lose 1 pound in 2 weeks. Aerobic exercise burns calories. In addition to weight management, the benefits include improved cardiovascular endurance and increased muscular strength. Taken from Fit To Ride, a www.HorseCoursesOnline.com online equine study course.
May 09
midwest horse digest
DNR reminds horse riders that passes are required on state trails As Minnesotans saddle up for the spring horseback riding season, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reminds riders to get a Horse Trail Pass before hitting any state-managed trails. Riders without the pass may be subject to fines. Introduced in 2007, the pass - which costs $21 for the calendar year or $5 daily - is required on horse trails within state parks, state forests, state trails, and state recreation areas for anyone 16 years of age and older. Riders must possess a signed pass while riding on state-managed horse trails. The trail pass has generated approximately $239,000 in its first two years. “The Horse Trail Pass benefits riders and their horses,� said Grant Scholen of the DNR Parks and Trails Division. “Proceeds are used in maintaining and rehabilitating horse trails and to improve state-owned equestrian facilities." Projects completed last year with Horse Trail Pass funds include: - Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood State Forest, Hay Creek Unit -rehabilitated sections of trail and day-use parking lot; Zumbro Bottoms Unit - rehabilitated sections of trail - Maplewood State Park - rehabilitated equestrian trails - St. Croix State Forest - installed trail system orientation signs - Upper Sioux Agency State Park rehabilitated equestrian trails Projects that will be completed in the next year with Horse Trail Pass funds include: - Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park - install new vault toilet in horse campground - Lake Maria and Wild River state parks - rehabilitate sections of trail - Pillsbury and Huntersville state forests - clear, brush, and repair horse trails and provide trail orientation signs - St. Croix State Park - add electric campsites in horse campground Horse Trail Passes can be purchased from DNR Electronic License System vendors across the state. These are the same vendors who sell fishing and hunting licenses. For more information about horseback riding or to buy a Horse Trail Pass online, visit the DNR Web site at mndnr.gov/horseback_riding or call the DNR Information Center, 651-296-6157, or toll free 888-646-6367.
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midwest horse digest
May 09
Marketing & Promoting Your Horse Business
Advertising, Even When Times Are Tough
By: Laurie A. Cerny Recently the owner of a long-time horse business told me that he had cut all of his print advertising, but was continuing to run ads on industry related websites. Times have been tough for him and his business and he said he needed to do what he had to in order to survive. If he had asked for my advice I would have told him what anyone who’s an expert in marketing would say: the worst thing you can do when business is slow is to quit advertising. Although he continues to run website ads, it is imperative that he and other horse business owners realize there is a large segment of our industry that does not use the Internet. And even for those who do, most still receive some form of print media pertaining to horses whether it’s a breed industry publication or a regional tab. Therefore, maintaining some advertising in both is the best way to keep your business name in front of both current customers and potential ones. The need to advertise even when times are tough is one of the first things taught in any business marketing class. To not do some type of advertising is to lose your place in the industry as a whole, as well as with your target market. Now I realize there are many horse businesses today who are struggling just to meet day-to-day tangible expenses like rent/mortgages, merchandise, etc., which makes more intangible expenses like an advertising budget the seemingly obvious thing to cut. Another argument, and one I hear frequently – especially from horse business owners who have been around for a long time, is that everyone knows who they are. That may be true among existing customers, but remember that even though the economy is tough and a number of owners have sold their horses, there are still new people getting horses everyday. How can new horse owners possibly know where to buy their tack or feed if you’re not running an ad in a traditional medium? Here are a few guidelines for getting the most out of your advertising budget and for maintaining an advertising plan even when finances are limited: * Create an advertising plan. First and foremost request a media kit from the publications and other media you want to advertise in. A
media kit will usually include rate cards, editorial calendars, ad sizes and a sample issue. Then, instead of relying on some hodgepodge plan for when you advertise, sit down with a calendar and plan what should be advertised when. Having a 12-month plan that corresponds with the editorial calendar is one of the most cost effective things you can do. For example, if you are the owner of a horse trailer business in the Midwest, where show seasons usually end sometime by October and don’t resume until April, running large sale ads for new trailers November through February may not be the best choice. Ads for new trailers have the best reach during the time of year when potential buyers would be looking to purchase one (probably early spring through mid-show season). By fall the direction of an ad for a trailer dealership (if you’re a dealership that also does servicing) should change to winterizing. * Determine the best time to advertise. Some times of year are better to advertise than others and these times depend on what you sell or do. A tack shop owner should run their biggest ads during pre-show and show seasons, as well as right before Christmas. Many publications also have issues that have higher print runs because they go to horse expos, shows, etc. Running an ad in one of these issues will get more exposure for the same price. Advertising in a special issue like a January or February issue (many publications feature these as their annual stallion directories) is another way to get the most out of an ad. Readers tend to hang onto these issues for the entire year. * Place less expensive ads: If you’ve been running four-color ads, and slow sales have limited your finances, consider going to black and white, or alternate between color one month and black and white, the next. You can also decrease size of a display ad to save some money. Another economical means of advertising are the directories most publications have where a business card size ad runs monthly. The going rate for these is $125$280 a year for local and regional publications and higher for national breed publications. Classified ads are another economical means to continue to run an ad each month. I’ve seen these as reasonable as $8-$15 a month for 10-15 words. * Consider coop advertising. Co-op ads are generally something offered by manufacturers to their vendors – where if they purchase a certain amount of product they are included in an ad for free. The concept is something that local horse businesses could do themselves. It will, however, cost something. However, by pooling monetary resources with other horse
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businesses in their area, each owner could contribute a small amount of money and end up in a decent size display ad. For example, let’s say a variety of horse businesses and services from trainers to riding instructors and from tack to feed stores are available in your area . . . you could run and ad having a theme of “Horse Businesses of Southwest Michigan”. Every business participating in the co-op ad could then be listed. * Trade services. For example, a tack shop could consider trading merchandise, which purchased at cost, to a breed organization publication for horse shows or year-end awards, the retail price equivalent in advertising space. In addition, if you operate an equine service like horse training or riding instruction, or are a blacksmith, etc., propose writing a column, or an occasional article, for your local or regional equine publications. Trade payment for the column or article for advertising space, or trade for at least a mention of your business in a bio at the end of the piece. * Ask for a discount: Most advertising mediums offer a frequency discount, usually starting when you commit to at least three ads. Some publications will let you mix and match ad sizes to get the discounts; others require that the ads qualifying for a frequency discount be a minimum size, or are all the same size. In addition, ask if discounts are available for prepayment, cash payments, or for camera ready ads. Laurie A. Cerny is the author of Horsin’ Around The USA Guide To Marketing & Promoting Your Horse Business (iUniverse/One Horse Press). She has over 20 years experience in the horse industry as a journalist and communication professional and is a member of American Horse Publications, American Quarter Horse Association, and Michigan Horse Council. Horsin’ Around the USA Guide To Marketing & Promoting Your Horse Business can be ordered for $12.95 (plus $2.00 for S/H). Mail check or money order for $14.95 to One Horse Press at 70883 39th St., Paw Paw, MI 49079. Previous marketing columns can be viewed at http://onehorsepress.web.officelive.com/
May 09
midwest horse digest
Oh My Achin’ Feet At this time of year we often see many cases of pasture induced laminitis. Most often these are caused by the return of horses back out onto pasture too quickly. In order to prevent any problems it is important to make the change onto pasture very gradually. For some horses with underlying issues it is better to keep them in a dry lot with no access to pasture. This way their diet can be under strict control. Some of our horses who are overweight or have other special circumstances can live out on pasture with their herd mates with the use of a grazing muzzle. The terms "Laminitis" and "Founder" are often used interchangeably, but there is a difference. Founder usually refers to a chronic condition associated with the rotation of the coffin bone, whereas acute laminitis refers to symptoms
associated with a sudden attack. Laminitis results from the disruption of blood flow to the sensitive and insensitive laminae of the feet. (Laminae secure the coffin bone to the hoof wall.) Inflammation interferes with the wall/bone bond. In severe cases these can separate. The coffin bone (the wedge-shaped bone within the foot) can "sink" downward and eventually penetrate the sole of the foot. Laminitis can affect one or all four feet, although it is usually seen in the front feet Other causes of laminitis vary and may include the following: •Grain overload/abrupt changes in diet. •Sudden access to a large amount of lush forage. •Metabolic diseases such as insulin resistance, and cushings. •Toxins released within the horse’s system. •High fever or illness. •Severe colic. •Retained placenta in the mare after foaling. •Consumption of cold water by an overheated horse. •Excessive concussion to the feet ("road founder") •Excessive weight bearing on one leg due to an injury of another leg.
The Region Three emghorseshows.com Minnesota - District 7 All Novice Show June 20, tentative location Experience Verndale, Minnesota.Illinois - Novice Classes The Region Three Experience wants to give you a FREE ENTRY in a Novice Amateur or Novice Youth Class at the 2009 Region Three Experience scheduled for July 15-19 in St. Paul, Minnesota! Each of the Region 3 Affiliates are offering NOVICE INVITATIONS at declared AQHAapproved All Novice Show or AQHA-approved Novice Classes at an affiliate show. 2009 Region 3 Affiliate Novice Invitation Shows Missouri - Novice Classes at Maple Leaf Circuit, May 9, Sedalia, Missouri (State Fairgrounds) Judges: Rhonda Replogle (classes 11-78) and Butch Carse (classes 1-10). Show information Iowa - All Novice Show July 4, during the Freedom Fest Circuit, Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Show information: iowaquarterhorse.com or
on Friday, May 1, IQHA Spring Shows, Springfield, Illinois (Illinois State Fairgrounds). Wisconsin - All Novice Show June 7, Seymour, Wisconsin. Manitoba, Canada - Saturday, June 13 Brandon, Manitoba, Canada Novice Invitation Eligibility Rules In order to obtain this “Invitation,” the Novice Youth or Novice Amateur exhibitor would have to participate in the designated Novice Eligibility Show in their Affiliate Association and place according to the AQHA Region 3 Experience Eligibility Rules. This “Invitation” applies to AQHA approved Novice Youth or Novice Amateur classes offered at the 2009 Region 3 Experience only. The number of Novice Youth and Novice Amateur exhibitors receiving an “Invitation” in each class will depend on the proximity of the Region 3 Affiliate to the Region 3 Host Affiliate. For 2009, Minnesota Novice
The American Horse Council is pleased to announce that Nutrena has become a sponsor of the AHC. This is a great opportunity for Nutrena to show their support of the American Horse Council, the horse industry’s unified voice in Washington, D.C. “We are looking forward to working with Nutrena and we hope that together we can make great things happen for the horse industry in Washington,” said Jay Hickey, AHC President. The American Horse Council works on issues in Washington that affect the horse industry both directly and indirectly. As they celebrate their 40th anniversary, the impact and influence that the AHC has had on the horse industry is undeniable. Many of the activities that you enjoy with your equines have been affected by the American Horse Council’s hard work and efforts to preserve the integrity of the
h o r s e industry. A list of the last 25 years of accomplishments can be found at www.horsecouncil.org. Nutrena is one of the world's largest equine nutrition companies, feeding more than one million horses per day. It aims to help its customers achieve optimum nutrition, exceptional health and world-class performance from their animals. Nutrena has been providing superior nutrition for domestic animals for more than 80 years. “We at Nutrena are excited to be a sponsor of the American Horse Council. It provides a wonderful opportunity for us to participate in the continued growth of the horse industry, and to support the work of the AHC, both as a voice of the industry in Washington
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•Bedding that contains black walnut shavings. •Prolonged use or high doses of corticosteroids. Signs of acute laminitis include heat in the feet, lameness, increased digital pulse in the feet, pain in the toe region of the foot when hoof testers are applied, and/or a "sawhorse" stance (the front feet are stretched out in front of the horse.) The sooner treatment is started, and underlying causes are treated the better the chances are for recovery. Many horses that develop laminitis make uneventful recoveries and go on to live long, productive lives. Once a horse has had laminitis though, it is more likely to reoccur. Extra care is recommended for any horse that has had laminitis, including; a modified diet, routine hoof care (which may include periodic radiographs to monitor progress) and a good health maintenance schedule (including vaccinations and worming to decrease the horse’s susceptibility to illness or disease.) Please consult with your veterinarian if your horse has had any problems with laminitis before turning them out on pasture. If you would like more information on laminitis or have questions please go to our website at www.clearylakevets.com or call (952) 435-8787 Youth and Novice Amateurs placing first, Wisconsin and Iowa Novice Youth and Novice Amateurs placing first through third, and Missouri, Illinois and Manitoba Novice Youth and Novice Amateurs placing first through fifth at the designated show will receive an “Invitation.” The Novice Youth or Novice Amateur can only receive an “Invitation” at a show in their home Affiliate Association. The “Invitation” applies to the exhibitor/horse combination and will allow the exhibitor/horse to participate in the class at the 2009 Region 3 Experience in which they received the “Invitation” without paying an entry fee for that class ($32 per class by June 10 and $42 per class after June 10). An Exhibitor may not use more than three “Invitations” per division (Novice Youth or Novice Amateur). Find complete details and rules at region3experience.com. Don't forget to read how you can earn more with our “Bring A Friend” award program and our Small Fry 9 & Under Exhibitor Classes
The American Horse Council Joins Forces with Nutrena
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and its continued support of the care and well being of horses, as well as through the development of the Unwanted Horse Coalition.,” said Deb Correll, Brand Manager of Nutrena. To learn more about Nutrena visit www.nutrenaworld.com. With their combined knowledge in the horse industry, Nutrena and the American Horse Council will work together to promote the best interest of the horse industry. For more information on becoming an Individual Member or a Commercial Sponsor of the American Horse Council, please email Bridget Harrison at bharrison@horsecouncil.org or visit www.horsecouncil.org/membership.html.
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May 09
midwest horse digest
Thumbnail Photo Classifieds Place your photo classified here for $20.00 per month just call 507-943-3355 for more info Plus you can also place your ad online at
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For Sale
Stallions and Stallion Auctions
6 yr. APHA Barrel Racing Gelding, smart, quick and beautiful.Super barrel racing gelding. APHA. 15 hands. Really fun ride, hunts a barrel, great turns, amazing must see! Videos available online. 605-670-9098 harttraining@hcinet.net
Spotz Sensation Homozygous! Exotic, tall & stretchy! Grand Nationals nominated for 2009! Black & white tobiano stallion. Only known grandson of both Hot August Nite & Chubasco! 715-210-5371 Clearcreekarabians@yahoo.com
Lipizzan Elegant and intelligent, this 3YO filly has potential for dressage, driving or as a cherished companion for the trails. Started under saddle and ready to go $6000 7155423742 plumlakedressage@aol.com
Red Buck Barcee - 16H AQHA Buckskin. Two Eyed Red Buck/Watch Joe Jack bloodlines. Cooled Semen/excellent mare care $500.00 Cr Quarter Horses crquarterhorses@tds.net www.crquarterhorses.net
Fantastic Dressage Colt Andalusian, Pura Raza Espanola- round build, sweet temperament,fantastic straight Dressage Movement!, this lovely 2YO colt is ready to start a new partnership! 972746-1457 vintageandalusians@hotmail.com
CR Smokes Midnight - 16H AQHA, Steel Gray - Jackie Bee/Tee Jay Roman bloodlines. Cooled semen/excellent mare care. $1500.00 CR Quarter Horses 608.994.2451 crquarterhorses@tds.net www.crquarterhorses.net
Huge Moving son of TWO Imports! Carthusian Andalusian, Pura Raza Espanola Tall, Fantastic Temperament and an AMAZING Trot!!! all the brio and pizzazz to go all the way! 972-746-1457 vintageandalusians@hotmail.com
Ole Skip Classic - Beautiful buckskin AQHA stallion at stud. Skipper W & The Ole Man foundation bloodlines.Balanced conformation, great disposition, all his colts have his wonderful trot & canter. See more at: 507-764-2010 http://www.angelfire.com/mn2/elmcreek/index.html
Black Bay Filly By Mediteraneo V. Black Bay daughter of 2007 IALHA Grand National Champion Sr. Stallion, Mediteraneo V! Fantastic Movement. Wonderful Mind. 972-7461457 vintageandalusians@hotmail.com
Famous Echo Homozygous! World Champ. Halter stallion! direct son of The Color of Fame.2004 Pinto Horse of the Year and the 2004 Pinto World Champion Halter Stallion 715-210-5371 Clearcreekarabians@yahoo.com
CR Lee Bee Buck 2005 AQHA, Two Eyed Jack/ Jakcie Bee bloodlines. 15.2H Dun - Smooth gaits - trail trained, Western show prospec $5,500 608-994-2451 crquarterhorses@tds.net www.crquarterhorses.net
Fiero LFA,PRE Black Andalusian Stallion. International Champion of Champions international bloodlines, Proven producer, Proven Junior Champion Stallion and USDF Dressage Competitor. 817-205-9268 maryclaeys@cdibb.com
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Equipment FOR SALE: JOHN DEERE 790: LIKE NEW FOR SALE: JOHN DEERE 790: LIKE NEW 27 HP, Diesel, 4WD, 3 pt. hitch, PTO, 300 front loader, adjustable rear grading blade. $13,500 Call John 320-340-0119
Services and Products The Elite Fleet by 3BarL Transport 1*800*982*2208 Horse Transportation Short Description: Affordable Experienced - Reliable - Specialized dispatch462003@yahoo.com Discount prices on the full lines of ThinLine, Skito, and SnugPax products. Also highest-quality rhythm beads and horsehair items. 207-951-0526
orders@zegifts.com www.zegifts.com
Tack Solutions by Leslie is a 99% consignment store for all your horse needs. We consign and sell saddles, tack and clothing for all disciplines of riding. Whether you are buying or consigning, we are worth the trip. Stop by and browse our store. Always accepting consignments from all over the US. 602-404-2165 www.tacksolutionsaz.com
Events EVERYONE WELCOME TO COME TO THE MNWHA 1ST ANUUAL POKER RUN. Treat your mom. May 10th sign up start at 10:30am - last card to be handed in by 3:30 & will announce winner by 4pm. Held at Wild River State Park. Park fees paid by rider.Cost to ride Poker Run - $20.00 - includes dinner & chance at winning some money. For info call Jane Scharber - 763-213-6589
May 09
midwest horse digest
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REAL ESTATE
ADVERTISERS INDEX Ace Tack page 13 AgMax/Wade Scott page 39 American Wood Fibers page 2 Arena Fenceline page 31 Arena Trailers page 43 B3K USA page 35 Blairview page 16 Buffalo Ridge page 33 Cannon Falls Trailer Sales page 28,29 Carlson Wholesale page 27 Chris Cox page 6 Conway Arabians page 30 Dennis Auslam page 24 Featherbrook Farm page 41 Federated Coop page 11 Grassland Solutions page 10 Hay Creek Ranch page 32 HitchSaver page 25
I90 Expo Center page 15 Indigo Acres page 22, 23 Julie Goodnight page 34 J&B Western Store page 5 KCB Equine Center page 41 K Fence page 9 Ken McNabb page 20 Lazy L Tack & Trailers page 25 Lynn Palm page 8 Midwest Cremation page 35 Mimbach Fleet Supply page 41 MN Arabian Horse Assoc page 41 Minnesota Horse Council page 9, 27 MN Horse Training page 41 MN School Of Horse Shoeing page 13 Monty Bruce Cow Horse Clinic page 18 More Custom Leather page 41 Najlis Photography page 17 Natural Plan Stomach Soother page 21 Northland Buildings page 27 www.horsedigests.com
Orion West Lighting Outlaw Trail Ride Palma Feed Pleasant Hills Saddle Shop Plum Lake Resort Real Estate Roger Berg Rosebud Productions R.T. Duggan The Model Horse Store The Natural Gait Twin Cities Featherlite Two as One Horsemanship UBRA Uncle Bob’s Trailers United Vet Equine Waconia Farm Supply Westwind Shelters Wind-n-Wood Farm
page 9 page 32 page 11 page 7,41 page 33 page 39 page 11 page 41 page 41 page 25 page 30 page 3 page 12 page 19 page 21 page 21 page 35 page 27 page 30
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midwest horse digest UPCOMING EVENTS
5/16/2009- MN, North Branch - Barrel MinnesotaBarrel Racers Association - MBRA Barrel Race - houck-horsecompany@yahoo.com - (651) 2771095 5/15/2009-ND, West Fargo - Barrel -UBRA - Sheyenne Red River Barrel Race -(218) 790-2654 mlind@cableone.net 5/15-5/17 - NE, Broken Bow - Barrel - Double BProductions- Cowgirl Tuff Barrel Bash $5000 added (deadline 2 weeks prior to event) (BBR) FMI DOUBLEB PRODUCTION - (641) 745-5845 - bolling@iowatelecom.net 5/16/2009 - NE, Broken Bow - Barrel - Double BProductions - Open 2D Slot Race - (641) 743-8223 bolling@iowatelecom.net 5/16-5/17 - MN, Fergus Falls - Game Show WSCAMSCTC Equine Science & Red Horse Riders 2 Day Open Game Show - (218) 736-3000 - rhra@prtel.com 5/16/2009 - MN, North Branch - Barrel - MN BarrelRacers Association - MBRABarrel Race - (651) 277-1095 - houckhorsecompany@yahoo.com 5/16/2009 - MN, Isanti- Horse Show - UBRA, WSCAMidstate North Star Saddle Club WSCA Horse Show(763)444-5232 - cheeksillg@aol.com May 16-17 ~ Introduction to Natural Hoof Care Workshop for horse owners ~ $115.00 ~ Fountain City,WI (near La Crosse, WI) ~ contact Heather for more info: 608-687-9534 or visit www.perfectbalancehoof-care.com May 23rd – September 26th - LaValle Team PennersAssoc. Gymkhana Series - Hwy 33, LaValle, WI - Every 2nd & 4th Saturday - Arena Opens at 5:00 pm - First Class @ 7:00 pm SHARP Must be registered by 6:45 - If weather is questionable, please call 985LTPA(5872) Any questions/comments can be directed to LTPA@MWT.NET May 23 & 24th - Confidence and Cattle Work Cliinic.Dennis Auslam, Redwood Stables, Morton, MN.,www.redwoodstables.com, call 507-943-3355 or emailredwoodstables@mvtvwireless.com May 23, 2009Golden Oak Leaf Equestrian Center WDCTA recognizedDressage Schooling Show.27459 Holland Ave, Tomah WI. Call Jessica (608)387-0293 or email americ@centurytel.net May 30, 2009 - L& M Cattle Co. - Larry & Mary KilnessMondovi, WI - Saturday Club Show, www.ncrcha.com 5/16-5/17 - IA, Fairfield, Clinic - Integrated Equine Massage for Performance Horses: The MastersonMethod™ - Masterson@lisco.com 5/16/2009 12:30:00 PM - WI, Mondovi - Barrel WI03, Wisconsin NBHA- WI 03, MN 02, MN 03 BarrelRace @ Lazy LArena - (715) 926-5309
5/23/2009 - WI, Polk County Fairgrounds - Horse Show - Apple River Riders Open Fun Show - (715) 268-2168 -www.appleriverriders.com 5/23-5/24 - MN, Fergus Falls - Horse Show - MN NorthStar Paint Horse Show - (218) 736-3000 rhra@prtel.com 5/23-5/2 - WI, Deerfield - Ranch Rodeo - American Ranch Horse Assn show - (651) 755-9376 Zach@QuickDrawEquine.com 5/24/2009 - MN, Isanti- Barrel - Hi Circle Vee Ranch Summer Series Jackpot Barrel Race - (612) 810-4010specks95@hotmail.com 5/24/2009 - WI, Balsam Lake - Fun Show - JJ Arena Memorial Speed Dash Challenge - (715) 857-6343 -jessica@ubra.org 5/25/2009 - MN, North Branch - Barrel - Memorial Day Make-Up barrel race for April 25th rain out show Annual Barrel Racing Saddle Series ADDED MONEY 10:30am Start! - (651) 277-1095 houckhorsecompa-ny@yahoo.com 5/26/2009 - MN, Buffalo - Barrel UBRA- Buffalo Barrel Bash 2009 @ Buffalo Rodeo Grounds. Drawings throughout the night for FREE Buffalo Championship Rodeo tickets!! - (763) 682-6485 chris_west@hop-kins.k12.mn.us 5/27/2009 - MN, Litchfield - Barrel - UBRA- Meeker County Flyswatters Cowgirl Tuff Arena Summer Series(612) 240-3176 - Added Money: $100 5/27/2009 - MN, Monticello - Barrel, Futurity UBRAArrowhead Arena Barrel Race. Open 4D's,Youth & Futurity classes - (763) 878-1554 arrow-headarena@tds.net 5/28-5/31 - MN, Fergus Falls - Horse Show OnLine Flyer ~ North Dakota AQHA Show - (218) 736-3000 rhra@prtel.com 5/28/2009 - SD, Forestburg- Barrel -UBRA Amdah Barrel Racing Jackpots. TTT approved. - (605)3500955 5/29/200 - MN, Pine City - Barrel Minnesota High School Rodeo Association, UBRA- MNHSRA OpenJackpot - (651) 464-6460 - Added Money: $100 dun-smore_flmn@msn.com 5/29-5/31- IA, Waterloo - Barrel Double B Productions - Cowgirl Tuff Barrel Bash $5000 added (deadline 2 weeks prior to event) (BBR) FMI DOUBLEB PRODUCTION - (641) 745-5845 - bolling@iowatele-com.ne t
5/17/2009 - MN, North Branch - Barrel - Annual Barrel Racing Saddle Series ADDED MONEY10:30am Start!(651)277-1095 - houckhorsecompany@yahoo.com
5/29-5/31 - MN, Henderson - Clinic - Kelly Kaminski Barrel Racing Clinic - (952) 448-5657 5/30/2009 - MN, North Branch - Barrel, Game Show UBRA, WSCA Happy Horseman Saddle Club WSCA Game Show - (763) 413-3364 - disraelson@airpowerequip.com 5/30-5/31 - WI, Viroqua - Ranch Rodeo - AQHA versatility show (651)755-9376 Zach@QuickDrawEquine.com
5/17/2009 10:00:00 AM - WI, Mondovi - Barrel - WI 03, Wisconsin NBHA-WI 03, MN 02, MN 03 Barrel Race @Lazy LArena - (715) 926-5309
5/30/2009 - MN, Isanti Horse Show - UBRA, WSCAMidstate North Star Saddle Club WSCA Horse Show (763) 444-5232 - cheeksillg@aol.com
5/18-5/22 - IA, Fairfield - Clinic Integrated Equine Massage for Performance Horses: The MastersonMethod™ - Masterson@lisco.com
5/30/2009 - SD, Baltic Barrel- UBRA - PENDING: Westridge Equine Center Barrel Racing Jackpots. TTT approved. Year End Awards Presentation - (605) 5435797 5/30/2009 - MN, Lake Elmo - Barrel, Game Show UBRA, WSCA- Turnin’& Burnin’For A Cure! *** ALLPROCEEDS WILL BENEFIT THE AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY!!! (612) 310-9715 paige.skelton@uwrf.edu 5/30/2009 WI, Balsam Lake - Barrel, Game Show UBRA-“JJ Arena UBRA Barrel Race & Fun Show” FMI please visit www.JJArena.com - (715) 857-5505 julie@jjarena.com
5/20/2009 - MN, Chatfield - Barrel, Futurity UBRAGartner's Arena Wednesday Night SummerSeries (507) 259-8105 - gart5@hotmail.com 5/21/2009 - WI, Balsam Lake- Barrel, Game ShowUBRAJJ Arena Summer 1st & 3rd Thursday nightSeries - (715) 857-5505 - julie@jjarena.com 5/22-5/24 - IL, GiffordBarrel WI 03, WisconsinNBHAGreat Lakes National - 706-823-3728 5/23-5/25 - WI, Balsam Lake Barrel, Futurity, Game Show - UBRA Tuff Enuf Ranch Annual Memorial Barrel Race, Pig Roast & Fun Show Challenge. ADDED $ & AWARDS! -(715) 857-6343 - info@ubra.org
5/31/2009 - MN, Brook Park - Barrel - NBHA MN-06, UBRA NBHA MN06 Herzog's Arena - (651) 335-4418 taleader@msn.com
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May 09
5/31-5/31 - WI, Balsam Lake - Clinic - “JJ Arena Barrel Racing & Gaming Clinic – Instructor: Julie Jones” 10AM-4PM Cost $65 per student. - (715) 857-5505 Julie@JJArena.com 6/3/2009 - SD, Salem Barrel - UBRA- Stone Pony Arena 2009 Summer Series. TTT approved. - (701)4252820 6/3/2009 - MN, Chatfield - Barrel, Futurity - UBRAGartner's Arena Wednesday Night Summer Series (507) 259-8105 - gart5@hotmail.com 6/4/2009 - SD, Hartford - Barrel - UBRA- Horse Haven Arena Barrel Racing Jackpots. TTT approved. (605)526-3647 6/4/2009 - WI, Balsam Lake - Barrel, Game Show UBRA-“JJ Arena UBRA Barrel Race & Fun Show” FMI please visit www.JJArena.com - (715) 857-5505 julie@jjarena.com 6/5/2009 - MN, Plymouth - Barrel - Minnesota Barrel Racers Association - MBRA Open Jackpot @ Silver Buckle Arena (612) 232-3673 trisha_jensen@yahoo.com 6/5/2009 - IA, Larchwood - Barrel - UBRA Larchwood Barrel Racing Jackpots. TTT approved. -(605) 2124496 6/5-6/7 - MN, Fergus Falls - Reining - NCRH Ashow at Red Horse Ranch, NRHA approved - (651) 755-9376 Zach@QuickDrawEquine.com 6/6/2009 - MN, Hinckley - Barrel NBHA MN-06, UBRANBHA MN06 Mission Creek Ranch - (651) 335-4418 taleader@msn.com 6/6-6/7 - WI, Chetek - Barrel - WI 03, Wisconsin NBHAWI 03 Barrel Race - Red Cedar Riders - (715) 284-2485 6/6/2009 -MN, North Branch - Fun Show - Gear Bags to High Point Champions - $20 to ride in all the classes OR $4 per Class! - (651) 277-1095 houckhorsecom-pany@yahoo.com 6/6/2009 - MN, Monticello - Barrel - NBHA, UBRA NBHAMN01 Barrel Race - (612) 810-4010 specks95@hotmail.com 6/7/2009 - MN, Littlefork - Barrel NBHA, UBRAOnLine Flyer ~ MN05 Double Header @ TS Ranch -(218) 2784234 6/7/2009 - MN, North Branch - Barrel - Annual Barrel Racing Saddle Series ADDED MONEY10:30am Start!(651) 277-1095 - houckhorsecompany@yahoo.com June 6 & 7, 2009, July 11 & 12, August 29 & 30, September 26 & 27, Wild West Days Grounds, Viroqua, WI. Upper Midwest Buckskin Horse Association 2-daydouble judged IBHA show including cattle classes. Contact 608-847-6851 June 7, 2009, 8:30AM SHARP! AQHASpecial Event Roping events incl Heading, Heeling, Breakaway and Tiedown roping in Open, Amateur and Youth. Call 608847-6851 for more info. June 6 & 7 - Self Defense on the Trail, Confidence Clinic with 2 Trainers - Mary Hamilton and Dennis Auslam. This clinic is sure to be lots of fun! Redwood Stables, Morton, Mn, 507-943-3355, or email redwoodstables@mvtvwireless.com 6/9/2009 - MN, Buffalo - Barrel - UBRABuffalo BarrelBash 2009 @ Buffalo Rodeo Grounds. Drawingsthroughout the night for FREE Buffalo ChampionshipRodeo tickets!! - (763) 682-6485 chris_west@hop-kins.k12.mn.us 6/10/2009 SD, ViborgBarrel - UBRA - Anderson Arena Boomgarden Barrel Racing Jackpots.TTTapproved. (701) 214-1055 6/10/2009 - MN, Monticello -Barrel, Futurity UBRA Arrowhead Arena Barrel Race. Open 4D's,Youth & Futurity classes - (763) 878-1554 arrow-headarena@tds.net
midwest horse digest
May 09
6/11/2009 SD, Forestburg- Barrel - UBRA Amdah Barrel Racing Jackpots. TTTapproved. - (605) 3500955 6/12/2009 - MN, Hutchinson - Barrel - UBRAKickin UpDust Barrel Race ADDED $$$ & AWARDS - (320) 583-5807 - kicknupdust@gmail.com 6/12/2009 - MN , Clarrisa - Barrel UBRARockingD’Acres Barrel Jackpot - rockingd@eaglevalleytel.ne t6/12-6/14 - MN, Fergus Falls- Barrel Double BProductions OnLine Flyer ~ Cowgirl TuffBarrel Bash $5000 added (deadline 2 weeks prior toevent) (BBR) FMI DOUBLE B PRODUCTION - (641)745-5845 bolling@iowatelecom.ne t 6/12/2009 - IA, Larchwood - Barrel UBRAOnLine Flyer ~ Larchwood Barrel Racing Jackpots. TTTapproved. (605) 212-4496, 6/13-6/14 - WI, Rio - BarrelWI 02, Wisconsin NBHAWI02 BarrelRace - Paradise Stables - (920) 992-3171 6/13-6/14 - WI, Viroqua - Working Cow Horse WIFQHAshow, aqha cutting and WCH classes (651)755-9376 - Zach@QuickDrawEquine.com
TRADERS CORNER
6/13/2009 - SD, Balti c - Barrel UBRAWestridge Equine Center Barrel Racing Jackpots. TTTapproved. Year End Awards Presentation - (605) 543-5797 5/16/2009- MN, North Branch - Barrel MinnesotaBarrel Racers Association - MBRABarrel Race - houck-horsecompany@yahoo.com - (651) 2771095 June 13, 2009 Golden Oak Leaf Equestrian CenterWDCTArecogzined Dressage Schooling Show.27459Holland Ave, Tomah WI.Call Jessica Kortbein(608)387-0293 or email americ@centurytel.net June 14, 2009 - Chippewa/Interstate Riders SC WSCAHorse Show - Polk County Fairgroungs, St.Croix Falls, WI Judges: Marilyn Carter/Graves & DawnTaylor - Info calls: Mary Jo 715-483-9592 June 15 July 31 ~ Enlightened HorsemanshipResidential Youth Camps at Eagle Valley Equestrian,Fountain City, WI ~ Beginner through Advanced ses-sions ~ Contact Heather for more info: 608-687-9534 orvisit www.learning2ride.co
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www.wright-countyfair.com une 20, 21 & 22 - IBHA& WI Buckskin Show -Jefferson WI, Contact Kathy Yager 920-568-1111 orsales@premierawards.com Download showbill & infoat www.wbhaonline.net June 25-28, 2009 - Blunt South Dakota would like toinvite everyone to help them celebrate theirQuasquicentennial (125 Years) Activities scheduled:Trail Ride, Cowboy Poets, Reinactments, Parade, Car& Tractor Show, Kiddie Games, Dances, Food.Fun forall ages.For more information www.blunt125.com July 3-4-5 Mid-Western Rodeo - Manawa, WIPRCARodeo - -1800-74RODEO www.manawarodeo.org JULY9-12, 2009 - BRYAN NEUBERTHorsemanship &Colt Start Clinic at Schiferl's WJ Ranch (located nearFordyce, NE or 7 miles south of Yankton, SD) For info(402) 357-2102 or www.schiferlswjranch.com
EMAIL YOUR EVENT LISTINGS TO PEG@HORSEDIGESTS.COM
June 19-21, 2009 2ns Annual Central MN Donkey andMule Days, Wright County Fairgrounds,
Advertise in Traders Corner $25.00 and $45.00. Call today - 507-943-3355
ASSOCIATIONS
HORSE SUPPLIES
CAMPS
FARRIER SUPPLIES
TRAINERS
SADDLES AND TACK
WEB AND AD DESIGN
EQUINE HEALTH
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midwest horse digest
Classifieds EDUCATION Mare or Stallion Reproductive Management Classes. Learn Basics of AI at UW-Madison. Classes targeted for Breeders/Owners and Vets. More Info: www.ansci.wisc.edu/equine.html
PRODUCTS New leather harness ,3rd generation business. Team, work, complete with hames, collars extra. Draft $802.00. Qtr. horse $757.00. Show 3 hip-Draft $882.00. Qtr. horse $812.00. Buggy breast Qtr $220.00 Pony $140.00. Catalogue - St Paul Saddlery, 953 W 7th St., St Paul, MN 55102 1209 Master Saddler offers complete saddlery repairs. Trees replaced, complete reflocks, new seats, billets, tree alterations on Kieffer and Prestige saddles. Appointments booked for quick turn around. Skilled repair of driving harness and sidesaddles.Custom accessories for side saddle competition. Bridles sewn in. Contact Michael at 847-776-6700 or e-mail master_saddler@saddlersrow.com Website www.saddlersrow.com 1209
FOR SALE Riding Horse Sale/Auction at J & J Paints and Quarter Horses in Dodgeville, WI. Sat. June 20th, 2009 at 11:00 am. Selling 30-40 broke trail and family horses along with some show prospects. (608) 341-8144 website: jjpaintsandquarterhorses.com 5/09
Ariel de la Mar***2007 Grey Spanish /Portuguese Filly by SANTIAGO out of VALENTIA - $15,000.00 - This full sister to the multi Champion mare Chileanna owned by Pedro Segura is now available for purchase. 262-249-8870 - selwoodp@idcnet.com Incredible cobra of bay Spanish/Portuguese fillies or matched driving horses $10,000.00 - Fillies can be bought seperately at $10000 a piece or make an offer on all three for a future cobra or matched driving team/Unicorn. 262-249-8870, selwoodp@idcnet.com Lela BA ******* 2008 Bay futurity nominated Spanish/Portuguese Filly - $10,000.00 Beautiful young mare with lots of potential for Halter and Performance classes. 262-2498870 - selwoodp@idcnet.com
May 09
Selwood Park Chloe****** Very Rare Buckskin Spanish/Portuguese 2007 Mare $20,000.00 - Extremely rare Buckskin Andalusian 2007 mare.Futurity nominated and USEF Lifetime recorded. 262-249-8870 selwoodp@idcnet.com Selwood Park Sintra ***** Extremely rare 2006 Buckskin Andalusian Mare -$25,000.00 Sintra has everything plus COLOR and HAIR. This filly is IALHA futurity nominated and Lifetime recorded with USEF and USDF.262249-8870 selwoodp@idcnet.com PRINCIPESSA BA ***** Rare ALL Black Andalusian mare by AMISTAD SL - 12,000.00 - This exquisite black Spanish/Portuguese filly is not only black but has all the mane and tail sought after in an Andalusian Mare. 262-249-8870, selwoodp@idcnet.com
Lezada BA ***** 2008 Bay Spanish/ Portuguese Futurity nominated filly $6,000.00 This filly represents the best of American Breeding. Combining new rare bloodlines from Portugal with Garrison pure Spanish Legacy lines. 262-249-8870, selwoodp@idcnet.com
STALLIONS
1/2 Andalusian Sport Horse Candidate, Posh is 1/2 Andalusian 1/4 Arabian 1/4 Saddlebred Gelding. He is registered with IALHA, & can be registered with Iberian Warmblood. Call - 586784-4368, us@serenitystables.com
Pure Friesian "ROEK" 2nd Premie Stallion. ROEK has a great pedigree, to match his great intelligence, temperament, and CHARISMA. 218-780-7064, dr.horseslave@yahoo.com.
LOOKING FOR A BLACK P.R.E./Andalusian? Several to choose from: 10yo revised blk.broodmare, 2 yearling blk fillies (one carries red)w/ANCCE cartas, 2009 blk stud colt. www.walnutcreekandalusians.com KANSAS 913-375-2866 5/09 BROODMARE SUPREME******Especial BA by DESPIERTO out of FURIOSA A $25,000.00 - Prolific daughter of Despierto in foal to US National Champion Third Level Dressage "Legado" - 262-249-8870, selwoodp@idcnet.com 2009 Azteca colt out of 2008 USEF National Grand Champion, Half Andalusian, $7,500.00 - This 2009 colt is destined for greatness as both his sire and dam are multi national champions in halter and performance. 262-249-8870, selwoodp@idcnet.com 2009 Black,Bay or Black/Bay Purebred Andalusian Colt Sire/Dam National Champion, $9,500.00 - This futurity nominated colt is destined for greatness as both his sire and dam are national champions in performance. 262249-8870, selwoodp@idcnet.com Tresor ***** 2008 Beautiful Bay Futurity Nominated Spanish/Portuguese Filly - $10,000.00 This filly has all the makings of a great show horse and companion. Compact and athletic, plus color. 262-249-8870 selwoodp@idcnet.com
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.Dakota Gambler Rare Black and White Pintabian At Stud: Proven 99.6% Purebred Arabian. Athletic, Correct, Beauty, Elegance, Kind disposition with awesome movement. Registration Numbers: 320-283-5933, spruchlo@gctel.com
May 09
midwest horse digest
www.horsedigests.com
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