MIdwest Horse Digest September 2008

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M idwest H orse D igest

September 08

September 08

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Midwest Horse Digest

Rahn Greimann, Publisher, Owner and Editor

Advertising Mark Bahls 507-943-3355/Fax 507-943-3352 mark@horsedigests.com Peg Bahls 507-943-3355/Fax 507-943-3352 peg@horsedigests.com © 2008 Greimann Industries 35418 90th Street Blue Earth, MN 56013 Rahn Greimann 507-526-5943 Fax 507-526-2629 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

September 08

Season s Change... in the weather and in life.

With September upon us it is apparent that fall is close at hand. The air was cool this morning and the temperature certainly felt fallish. And so the time has come to prepare for a new season.

Sometimes in life we experience an abrupt season’s change and can enter a period that seems like a long, harsh winter. When that happens we need to remember that, like the weather, in time, this season in our life will change and the harsh, dark coldness will pass and give way to a new season of fresh growth, warmth and light because there is a season to all of life.

This editorial note is a tribute to a couple of extraodinary people, Rahn Greimann, the owner and publisher of this magazine and Dennis Auslam, a horse trainer and one of our featured writers. These two have been an incredible source of strength and bent over backwards to help Mark and I move through an extremely rough season in our lives. There are others also, but these two have been such a source of blessing during this season of change and there is no amount of thanks, to any of these people, that is adequate.

I also write this in the hope that Mark and I can encourage someone, who may be experiencing such a season of change in their life, to never, never give up. No matter what anyone says. Some of you, who know Mark and I, know that Mark suffered a hemmoraghic stroke in November of 2006. continud on next page......

This Month in Midwest Horse Digest Craig Cameron - Tough Enough Chris Cox - Meeting the Horses Need for Relief Ken McNabb - Circle S’s Lynn Palm - Exercises on the Longe Line Dennis Auslam - Gaining Respect: Leading, Stopping and Backing Jennifer McCormick-Lindgren - Western Pleasure: Movement is the Key Monty Bruce - The Importance of Leg Control Bob Jeffreys/Suzanne Sheppard - Boarding: A Two Way Street Mary Hamilton - Ask Mary, Catching Your Horse Julie Goodnight - Understanding Horse Behavior Larry Whitesell - Classical Training for the Gaited Horse Judith Reynolds, Ph.D - Equine Dentistry Lodi Equine Clinic Merger Cutters, Reiners, Ropers break new ground NWHA - Tracking Registry Upcoming Events Advertisers Index Classifieds Traders Corner Thumbnail Ads Real Estate Press Releases, Events and New Products Production and Futurity Sales

About our cover World famous Smart Chic Olena ridden by his owner JIm Babcock of Babcock Ranch.

See more at www.BabcockRanch.com 940-665-7961 We hope you enjoy this issue of

Midwest Horse Digest!

We are proud to be able to publish it for you and ask that you support the advertisers that support this magazine.

Thank you!

page 20 page 15 page 10 page 24 page 16 page 6 page 34 page 8 page 12 page 18 page 32 page 14 page 13 page 21 page 36

pages 29, 31 page 40 page 39, 40 pages 39 page 37 page 40 pages 9, 17,19, 26,27, 28,30 page 33

September 08 When we faced this life threatening situation, and as we worked through it, we started to realize the true preciousness of what it is that God has given us. And that He truly loves us and only wants good things for us. We also started to realize, when we opened up our heart to hear and our eyes to see, how His hand was moving in our life.

As we have looked back and examined some of the events of that day and the proceeding days, we realized that true miracles happened. We could see that the right people were placed in the right places at exactly the right time. We saw unexplainable events that happened in precisely the right order. If they had happened in any other way Mark would not be with us today.

Sometimes, we get so wrapped up in all the little meaningless frustrations of everyday life that we miss the truly important things that are there, right in front of us, all the time.

It is our hope that when you read this you will take the time to stop a moment and reflect on what is truly important in your life, and maybe do some reorganization.

Mark spent almost 2 months at Abbott Northwestern hospital in Minneapolis, MN..

Half of that time was in rehab at Sister Kenneys. There we were blessed with two wonderful young male therapists who were determined that Mark would walk again.

The doctors had told us that he would probably not be able to walk or regain the use of his left arm and hand and he would never be able to ride horse again.

Well, we are here to tell you that doctors are definitely not always right and Mark walked out of the hospital with only the use of a cane. They called him the Miracle Man at the Rehab center.

And due to the wonderful, giving nature of Dennis Auslam and a remarkable local therapist we had in our home area, Mark is now riding horse again and did his first solo ride the end of August 2008 at Dennis’ stable, Redwood Stables in Morton, MN. Mark’s goal is to make it to the upcoming MQHA benefit trail ride in Houston, MN this month.

Though this story is not over, and there is still a ways to go to regain all that was lost, we continue to press on and are determined to get it all back, but being able to ride was a major hurdle.

One of the amazing aspects of riding is the sensory stimulation it causes. Mark will

M idwest H orse D igest tell you that his whole body comes alive and it is the one time, when he is on the back of a horse, that he feels completely healed.

If you are fortunate enough to have known Mark before the stroke happened, watched and participated in his life during this time after the stroke, and then watch him when he gets to ride, you too would see the amazing transformation when he is on the back of a horse. Horses are a remarkable rehabilitation tool for the body, soull and spirit.

Do we feel blessed?

Totally! That such wonderful people were placed in our life that were so willing to help us make it through this journey. That the world of the horse had become part of our lives again after many years away from them and how important a role that has played in the road to recovery. That the Lord has been steadfast and true, even when we had not been steadfast and true to Him.

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That He has shown us hidden treasures.

Treasures that we actually would have missed had we not gone on this journey.

So, before this season changes and the harshness of winter sets in, take the time to stop and think about what is really important in your life. Don’t miss anymore of the important moments because you are to busy with all the little details that life tends to throw at you.

Go out to the barn, saddle up your favorite horse and take the time to follow that meandering trail you always passed on by before.

May God Bless You Today and Always, Mark and Peg Bahls Watch future issue of Midwest Horse Digest for coming articles on what horseback riding and horse therapy does for the brain and how it facilitates healing.

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September 08

Want to Win Western Pleasure?

MOVEMENT is the KEY

By Jennifer McCormick-Lindgren

Today’s Western pleasure horses are fantastic athletes and perfectly trained.

Competition is tougher than ever before. Unlike scored or timed events, Western pleasure competitors are evaluated against one other.

Seeking to develop an advantage over the competition, exhibitors always ask which particular quality makes the Champion western pleasure horse stand out well above the rest? It takes more than good manners, a proper headset, and smooth transitions to win these days. Great movement is critical! The AQHA handbook states the ideal Western pleasure horse should have balanced, free-flowing motion, correct gaits and proper cadence. The best horses always have a higher quality of movement than those getting the gate. So, if you believe your horse is doing everything right in Western pleasure, but you are still left out of the ribbons, you may need to take some time and improve your horse’s quality of movement.

Horses are born movers. Their main defense against predators is their ability to flee quickly. Watch your horse running freely in the field. I bet he is just beautiful. Observe his natural head and neck carriage, his amazing ability for flying lead changes, his impulsion and drive. While not every horse is suitable to perform the discipline we may choose for them, they all have a natural cadence, rhythm, and balance to their gait when man does not interfere. The problems begin when man is added to the equation. We force them to stand in a small dark box all day, feed them when it is convenient to us, and demand they transform from lazy horse in the stall to working horse in the arena within minutes. Throw on a bit, reins, saddle pad, saddle, shoes, weight of the rider,splint boots, etc. followed with a rider who spurs, yanks, snatches, and shifts their weight.

With all these factors working against them, is it any surprise that our horses become sore, off balance, lame, and short strided? Top competitors learn to recapture and direct the balanced, happy, free flowing movement their horse naturally has.

Correctly Perform the Gaits: Being a top competitor in any division requires knowledge of the gaits the horse is asked to perform. For western pleasure, each gait must be performed correctly, consistently, and in a relaxed manner. If the goal was to be the slowest horse in the class, we would use timers, not judges, and the horse with the slowest time would win. The walk is a natural, ground covering, lateral four beat gait. I often see horses crawling at the walk, hesitating at each step as if it is painful to put their foot

down. This slow, unnatural walk is heavily from others. Attend clinics, read training artipenalized in the show ring. The pleasure jog cles, and watch videos. There is a lot of great should not be so slow that the horse appears to advice out there, make use of it. The following be walking behind. The jog must be a true, four horsemen all produce great moving horses straight, and relaxed two beat diagonal gait. and were eager to share some advice.

The lope is a three beat gait with the horse Cleve Wells, AQHA professional moving straight down the rail (not canted or horseman, top Western pleasure trainer, and turned into the rail) and national clinician, believes that loping on the front and winning Western pleasure in hind end. The four beat today’s competitive market lope and the trope (trot demands total concentration from mixed in with the lope) are the rider. “Whether you are at not acceptable gaits. The home, in the warm-up ring, or in ideal is to have your horse the show ring, the only thing the perform all gaits in a rider should be focused on is his balanced, collected and horse”. This means no cell light manner under little phones, no chatting with friends, rein contact. no thinking about the laundry.

Know Your Horse: “Your job is to bring out the best in Winning the toughest your horse and you can’t do that if class on the circuit you are distracted. Poor moverequires more than a ment is most often due to the sharp outfit. If you want to rider’s error and the result of poor improve your horse’s communication between the rider movement, take the time and the horse.” Humans use to understand him as an Cleve Wells has trained and produced words, horses rely on physical individual. Don’t rely on 17 World Champions and Reserve cues. You must learn to “speak” quick fixes – they don’t to the horse through your hands, Champions in Western pleasure. work. Observe your seat, and legs and then “listen” to He resides in Burleson, Texas horse under saddle (no his response. with his family. rider) and memorize his Don’t be a negative rider rhythm at all three gaits by putting a ‘beat’ to his who teaches only through punishment. If all footfall. Make a song in your head you say is “Don’t, to remember his movement. Next, don’t, don’t” to mount your horse and see if his your horse, how rhythm changes. Is the song the will he undersame or has it gone out of tune? stand what to A great horsemen knows where “Do”? Learn to his horses feet are at all times. If say “Do!” by you don’t know what is happening being clear about underneath you, how can you what you expect expect to “set the horse up” for his from your horse. next gait or transition?

Clearly ask your U n d e r s t a n d horse to “put your Movement: The perfect Western head here” not pleasure horse is a combination of “put your head good breeding, quiet temperadown”. A horse ment, sound conformation, and will understand great training. Realistically, few of “Jog at this us have the resources to buy the speed” better perfect horse or hire the best than “slow down”. trainer. We usually have to work Cleve emphawith the horse that we have. Any sizes the need to horse will display their best “Justify each and movement when working within every cue you their comfort zone. Once you give the horse. understand your horse and your Cleve Wells believes that horses deserve praise Tell the horse gaits, you should be able to “feel” for a job well done. For more training tips from exactly what you when he is the most relaxed and want from him Cleve, visit www.CleveWells.com. balanced. Your goal is to maintain and always this “feel” and cadence in addition to reward him when he complies”. Horses want to maintaining a collected frame and proper head- please their rider. Give them the chance. set. Making him tired isn’t always the solution.

Riders mistake movement as referMany horses lose quality in their gait when tired ring to speed and length of stride. Movement is and become sloppy, lazy movers. the style in which the horse carries himself, his Continue to Learn: No matter how cadence, lift, balance, collection, and footfall in long you have been riding, you can still learn addition to speed and length of stride.

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To improve the quality of your insecure with a nervous or distracted rider and key factor in developing a quality mover at all horse’s gait, you must first establish “Full Circle it shows in their performance. gaits”. Colton emphasizes using leg cues to Communication” as described by Wells. First, Krylesa Sadowski, trainer of teach your horse to move away from pressure, clearly understand what you are asking your numerous Pinto World to pivot, and to use horse to do. Second, send him a clear and Champions tells her riders to their hips and consistent message. Third, listen to his “Apply a little rein contact when shoulders during the response. When he complies, always reward the horse’s forehand is off the walk. Next, he teaches him. Start with the basics (walk) and build his ground. At the same time, give them to jog medium knowledge and abilities from there. a little scoot with your seat to sized circles to gain Brian Scoggins, a 2008 U.S. keep your horse’s hindquarters their balance and Nationals Judge and top Western pleasure engaged. Schooling your horse engage their hindquartrainer on in this fashion will ters. “Your horse needs the Arabian increase his ability to to trust you and he circuit, collect and help him to won’t build that trust if believes develop self-carriage. you are always going that time, Eventually, he will Jim Mueller follows Krylesa Sadowski's to your hands to training program when schooling his patience, learn to travel lightly reprimand him. Rely on pinto, Do You Believe In Magic. and repetion his forehand with leg cues first, use your tion are the his hock stepping hands last. When you keys to softly underneath go to the reins make sure you get giving your him. At this stage, in and out of the mouth quickly horse a you can begin to and always follow-up with the strong drape your rein and reward - a loose rein.” foundation only use it momenJennifer Lindgren has been an Allfrom which tarily when you to learn. need to rebalance Breed Judge since 1985. She is an Brian Scoggins with WCF Renegade +/, Riders your horse.” experienced competitor who has winner of Four US National Top Tens need to Colton Smith, is earned Regional and National in Western pleasure. Stuart Vesty photo. learn how a highly competitive awards in Halter, Western, to cue and navigate a horse through their seat amateur on the AQHA and Equitation and Hunter. She loves and legs and rely less on their hands and reins. Open Show circuit in the all Breeds of horses and keeps her A cue should be a clear message that “asks Midwest region who trains private collection in Grant Park, IL. the horse” for a specific response. Always ask his own horses. He Contact: jenlind22@msn.com your horse and give him chance to respond believes that “Teaching a Colton Smith of Kankakee, IL shows Copyright 2008 by Jennifer before you “Tell” him what to do. In the ring, horse to be collected and Potentially Impulsive at the Redbud Lindgren.

Spectacular in Oklahoma City. learn to shut out all the distractions. Horses feel responsive at the walk is a

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September 08

Boarding: A Two Way Street - part 2

By Bob Jeffreys and Suzanne Sheppard

Last month we talked about what most stable owners expected from their boarders and what they found offensive. Now we’ll turn the table and discuss what most boarders want from their boarding farm.

The overriding concern is for the safety and well being of their horses. Most boarders insist on their horses receiving quality grass, hay and/or grain. There is no greater sin than barn owners trying to save money by cutting back on either hay or grain.

They want fresh water available at all times and stalls cleaned a minimum of one time per day. Leaving stalls unattended for any length of time increases insect and rodent population which is a health concern and probably the boarders’ number two (pardon the pun) concern.

After these primary concerns boarders will look at the overall condition of the barn itself. Are the stalls safe or are there protruding nails or sharp edges. Is the wood rotted or moldy? Are the floors level, or do they have deep craters in them? Does the stall

have good drainage? Are there rubber mats to provide a comfortable place to lie down?

Are the stalls big enough for their horses? What bedding is being used, straw, shavings or something else? Are the feed and water buckets clean?

When the major lodging and feeding issues meet with approval, then boarders usually want to know about turnout. Recreational horses (those not ridden every day) that are used primarily on weekends will fare much better if turned out for at least several hours each day (weather permitting) with other compatible horses. Extremely nasty horses that could maim or seriously injure other horses should be kept by themselves. Fortunately this aggressive behavior is the exception, not the rule. Most horses will determine their position in the “turnout herd” within a reasonable time and live happily thereafter. Boarders will want to be confident that management is capable of sorting this out. While on the subject of turnout, boarders will also expect safe fencing, and wish to be assured that broken boards, etc. will be replaced in a timely fashion.

If the stable or ranch provides riding rings or arenas, then boarders will be looking at the arena footing itself, as well as the maintenance and grooming of that footing. An uneven base, footing that contains rocks, roots or other debris such as shards of glass, and that which is either too deep or too shallow can be very unsafe and invite

stumbles, lameness and worse. All need to be corrected so that thehorses can move freely and in good balance.

Furthermore, consistency in the handling of their horses by barn staff to and from paddocks, etc. is key. Horses learn from everyone who interacts with them, and poor or inconsistent handling can undo good ground manners in a hurry, teaching the obedient, light horse to become fearful, pushy, or even aggressive.

Boarders also require a clean and accessible area to store their tack, and want to know that their personal property will be respected. They will want to know that their horses and tack are secure, and that someone is always on the premises to handle emergencies. They need to be confident in your ability to handle a crisis.

They need to know that all posted rules apply to everyone and will be enforced without favoritism. If medical vaccinations, worming, etc. are required, the staff must maintain due diligence in confirming that these conditions are met.

Finally, it is also appreciated when the barn staff is friendly, and maintains good communication with the boarders, in addition to providing timely and itemized billing for services rendered.

Well there you have it (whew!).

When both stable operators and boarders know and appreciate each others concerns, life is usually improved for both!

Till next time, ride safe! © August 2008. For info about Bob & Suzanne’s Wind Rider Challenge, clinics, DVDs, books, Horsemanship Ed Courses and ProTrack™ Trainer Certification Programs visit TwoasOneHorsemanship.com or call 845-692-7478.

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2 n d A NNUA L L A K E S R E G I ON H OR SE F E S T YOU W ON ’ T WA N T T O M IS S I T !

SAVE MONEY AND PURCHASE ADVANCE TICKETS TO LAKES REGION HORSE FEST nd The 2 Annual Lakes Region Horse Fest at the Morrison County Fairground in Little Falls, Minnesota, offers advance tickets at a 33% savings! Lakes Region Horse Fest sponsors help keep this rural lifestyle weekend event affordable for families, rodeo fans and rural lifestyle enthusiasts.

Advance ticket locations are in convenient locations in Central Minnesota and Morrison County. You can purchase advance tickets for adults and children – adults at $10, children at $8 and children under 5 get in FREE. The 2008 Lakes Region Horse Fest is set for September 20 and 21 and opens at 10:00AM each day with the Dodge PRCA Rodeo at 2:00PM each day. Gate prices are $15 for adults and $10 for youth.

Ticket locations are Brand Motors in Little Falls, Kurtz Furniture & Carpet in Pierz, Custom Printing in Little Falls, Famous Dave’s in Baxter, Double SS Saddle Shop in Little Falls and Little Falls Radio.

In addition to the popular DODGE PRCA Rodeo, a rural lifestyle trade show, an indoor flea market, clinics, a parade of horses and a dressage demonstration will take place during the Lakes Region Horse Fest. You can check out the schedule of activities on www.lakesregionhorsefest.com. Hours of operation will be: Saturday, September 20, 2008 from 10am until 8pm; and Sunday, September 21, 2008 from 10am until 6pm.

2nd ANNUAL LAKES REGION HORSE FEST TO OFFER FLEA MARKET nd

The 2 Annual Lakes Region Horse Fest at the Morrison County Fairground in Little Falls, Minnesota, will offer sellers and buyers an opportunity to do some old-fashioned “horse trading” at the Indoor Flea Market. The 2008 Lakes Region Horse Fest is set for September 20 and 21 and opens at 10:00AM each day with the Dodge PRCA Rodeo at 2:00PM each day.

In addition to the popular Rural Lifestyle Trade Show, an Indoor Flea Market will be located in the 4-H Building on the Morrison County Fairgrounds. Hours of operation will be: Saturday, September 20, 2008 from 10am until 8pm; and Sunday, September 21, 2008 from 10am until 6pm.

Shoppers will be able to pick up bargains and search for those hard-to-find items. “We hope our first attempt at flea marketing takes off and the bargain hunters and collectors enjoy themselves. We’d like to see this continue as long as the Dodge PRCA Rodeo is successful,” said Chris Grams, Program Director for the Lakes Regio Horse Fest.

WOMEN’S PROFESSIONAL RODEO ASSOCIATION AT 2nd ANNUAL LAKES REGION HORSE FEST BROUGHT TO YOU

BY R. A. RANDALL INSURANCE “We are thrilled to assist women’s barrel racing at the DODGE PRCA Rodeo!”

exclaimed Mark Gerbi, President of R. A. Randall Insurance in Little Falls, Minnesota Women’s barrel racing will again excite the crowd at the 2nd Annual Lakes Region Horse Fest at the Morrison County Fairground in Little Falls, Minnesota. R. A. Randall Insurance of Little Falls is supporting the Women’s Professional Rodeo Association sanctioned competition. These professional riders offer spectators a competition of speed, horsemanship, agility and tough mindedness like no other athletic competition.

“I encourage everyone to come out to the Dodge PRCA Rodeo to watch these cowgirl risk-takers and their athletic horses. They

make it look so easy!” said Mark Gerbi, owner of R. A. Randall Insurance in Little Falls. The cut off for standings takes place in September therefore the Lakes Region Horse Fest appeals to competitors who are battling for points. The Lakes Region Horse Fest adds $1,500 in purse money for Women’s Barrel Racing.

The Lakes Region Horse Fest is sponsored by HorseSense Radio Network, Dodge PRCA, Brandl Motors of Pierz, Custom Printing of Little Falls, Famous Dave’s in Baxter, Coors, Morrison County Tractor & Equipment of Pierz and Q92 WYRQ. For more information, please contact Chris Grams at 320-632-2992.

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Circle S’s

by Ken McNabb natural cue from your body and removes the need for you to worry about your leg placement.

3. Pick up one rein and contact the horse’s mouth using no more pressure than necessary to create a turn. Make sure you pick up the rein slowly, giving the horse plenty of time to respond before the rein actually contacts his mouth.

We also want the horse to do three things before you release the rein.

1. Your horse must bend his head and neck.

This Exercise will change the way your horse responds to your cues and the way you ride. The following exercise is simple, yet if you follow the steps and stay consistent it will improve your horse whether you are riding performance or pleasure.

To start, I want you to use the mildest bit you can, preferably an Egg butt, Full cheek, D – ring or O – ring snaffle.

TO START THE EXERCISE: I want you to ask your horse to move into an extended trot, then change directions. Before the horse changes directions there are three things you must do.

1. Sit up straight in the middle of the horse. Do not lean to one side or the other but stay centered in your saddle.

2. Look where you want to go. This creates a

2. Next, he must soften his jaw and bring his nose towards the point of his shoulder, “giving to the bit”.

3. Finally, he must change directions. Be sure to alternate the reins. If you continue changing directions as you should it will look like you are riding the shape of S’s and circles. It is important to work this exercise at a trot in twenty minute segments. Give the horse a ten minute break, then start again. After two or three sessions you will begin to notice your horse starting to follow your body, as well as becoming much softer in the face.

This is a great warm up exercise that I use every day on my cutting horses as well as my ranch and trail horses. Consistency is the most important part. If you are consistent, you will begin to feel like your horse is reading your mind. Remember, this is not a pattern exercise, but rather a series of directional changes.

Recently, I found myself standing in front of a crystal clear pond with my partner, my paint horse stallion Beau (Diamond Breeze). We were involved in an in depth

September 08

photo shoot and things were not going the way I had planned.

Perhaps I am the only one who has ever had a less than great day with my horse. I think it is safe to say we have all had those days. If by chance you respond as I did, then you probably chose the path of least resistance. I began blaming my horse. Immediately I noticed that my horse’s frustration level was also mounting.

At this level of emotion I found myself looking into the pond and seeing a perfect reflection of both myself and my horse.

The old adage that says “Your horse is the mirror image of you”, came flooding into my mind. I am the kind of person who spends considerable time reflecting on my actions.

Suddenly my thoughts were not comforting. If my horse was a mirror image of myself, then all the frustration that I was experiencing was my own fault.

It amazes me sometimes how often I must learn the same lesson. As riders and trainers we may get upset if it seems our horse or our dog or even our child is taking “too long to learn” something new.

During my lifetime of riding and training horses, perhaps the most important lesson I have had to learn is that my horse is not going to be any more consistent that I am.

He won’t learn through osmosis.

I once knew a roper who told me he let his horses set without being ridden for two or three months at a time because, “they got better that way”. Of course he was only joking.

How many times have we started out to teach something, perhaps taking 45 minutes before our horse finally gets it. We then practice the exercise for five minutes and put our horse up for the day. The next time we ride we are surprised that our horse is not perfect at that particular lesson. It is imperative that we spend enough time practicing each lesson that our horse is both calm and consistent in performing the lesson.

I am reminded of the story of the little boy who was given a homework assignment to draw a picture of his favorite things. That night he asked his dad to help him spell a word, but dad was too busy. He tried to ask his mom, but she was also too busy.

Finally his older sister was able to help him spell family. Twenty years later his own little boy asked him, “Daddy, how do you spell love?” His reply was “T.I.M.E.”. This is a lesson for all of us.

As I looked down into the pond that day, I realized that what I wanted out of my horse was love, respect, and obedience, exactly what God wants from us. However, I found that, unlike God, I was not offering the same level of respect and consistency to my horse that I was asking of him. Fortunately, our Master is always consistent, yesterday, today, and forever.

Until next time, may God bless the trails you ride.

For more information on Ken McNabb’s programs call 307-645-3149 or go online to www.kenmcnabb.com

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Ask Mary: I have a difficult time catching my horse in the pasture. How can I find a way to make him easy to catch?

T

The other day, I went to the pasture to catch my horse, Pepe. Of course, he was in the farthest corner of the 25-acre pasture.

Gathering up my halter and lead rope, I imagined expending my 10,000 daily fitness steps in this one activity. Who says horse riding doesn’t burn rtcuts, g sho calories? Not long into n i ak my trek, Pepe raised his head from grazing and recognized me. He nickered and cantered up to greet me. Wouldn’t you like to have a safe, easy to catch horse like Pepe? You can. All it takes is time, practice and a little legwork.

Catching your horse can change from a challenging chore to an easy endeavor by using these training tips and techniques. They make catching your horse safe as well as effortless.

Always use Both a Lead Rope and a Halter.

Taking shortcuts, like leading from the halter or a rope around your horse’s neck can result in disastrous consequences. You don’t have control of your horse leading this way, especially if something unexpected happens. I have seen people kicked, trampled and fingers broken by using unsafe methods like these.

The lead rope is one of your most valuable safety tools. My favorite lead rope has a leather popper on the end of it. A popper is a

split piece of leather that makes a snapping noise when you twirl it. When catching your horse, place the halter on your left shoulder.

Hold the snap of your lead rope in your left hand. Your right hand holds the tying end of the lead rope approximately three feet from the end. Swing or twirl the tying end of the lead rope with your right hand to make a propeller like action with the rope. Practice this technique on a fence post, making the propeller end hit the post. This is the action you use on a horse’s shoulder to make them move away from your space. If another horse approaches as you are catching your horse, face the space offending horse and like leading twirl the

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eyes as that is challenging body language. If it looks like he is getting ready to move away from you, stop and wait until he relaxes. When he does, you can move closer. When in position at his shoulder, relax, don’t rush and grab his head. Stand quietly and give him a rub on the withers. Slowly and quietly place the lead rope around his neck. Secure it by clipping it on to itself under the horse’s neck. Now you have an emergency handle if he tries to move away. Carefully slip the halter on his head being aware of his sensitive ears (no banging around here). Detach the lead rope from his neck and reattach it to the ring on the halter

from the r. halter is a recipe for disaste

lead rope in his direction to move him away from you. This gives you a safe space to work in. You can also use this technique at the gate if horses are crowded around it. Swing the lead rope like a propeller at shoulder level to move them away from the gate so you can safely enter. Think about keeping a safety bubble of free space around you at all times.

Check your Body Posture Do you march in high gear right up to your horse in the pasture?

Then wonder why you can’t catch him? By using an energetic, direct approach your horse perceives your posture as a predatory and threatening. No wonder he runs. Instead, approach your horse indirectly as another prey animal would. That means a perpendicular approach with your side facing the horse.

Move to his shoulder, not his head and approach slowly. If you need to look at your horse, look at his shoulder not directly in his

A Horse that Eludes You If you have a horse that isn’t easily caught and evades capture, our game plan changes. If he moves away from you rather than being caught, directly face him. Then swing your lead rope at his shoulder to move him away from you. Position yourself between your horse and the herd. Get active.

Act like the alpha mare disciplining a misbehaving horse. Drive him away from you and the other herd members. His natural inclination will be to return to the safety of the group. Prevent his return to the herd by swinging the rope and moving toward him until you see “horse language of compliance”. This will be lowering of the head, softening of the eye and focusing on you. Once this appears, try your slow indirect approach again. If he moves away from you drive him off with your lead rope again and wait until he softens.

This retraining takes time and a level of fitness but soon you will have a horse that will come and catch you.

Practice Catch and Release Horses have keen memories. If the only time you catch your horse is for a hard workout he may not look forward to seeing you. He will soon associate you and the halter with hard work. Hmmmm, hard work or eating grass in the pasture with buddies? It’s an easy choice to make.

Practice the catch and release method.

Catch your horse and do something he enjoys.

Catch your horse and feed him his evening ration of grain or spend some time grooming him. Then release him back into the pasture. Make being with you a pleasurable activity and reward for being caught.

Mary is a Mounted Police instructor and a fully insured ARICP certified 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

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Lodi Equine Clinic The merger of the Lodi and Madison Equine Clinics in January 2008 has assured South Central Wisconsin horse owners of not only state-of-the-art medical treatment, but also 24 hour, 7 days a week emergency onfarm care. Thru its central office in Lodi, and a satellite office in Middleton, Wisconsin, Lodi Equine offers a myriad of specialized services including wellness and preventive care, surgical and reproductive services, and alternative medical treatments such as spinal manipulation and acupuncture.

For Dr. David Kolb, veterinarian and clinic director, the work of the facility is “essentially equal parts preventative and sick animal care with disease prevention and dentistry a large part of the services we provide.”

“Yet, with so many horses now living well into their thirties we are dealing with more physical problems than in the past, including lameness and laminitis.

With a Veterinary degree from the UW School of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Kolb began his career at Lodi Veterinary in 1987, and, over the years, has become an expert on the causes and treatment of equine lameness.

“Poorly fitted shoes and uneven foot trimming can result in lameness and laminitis, a serious hoof infection that ultimately resulted in the death of Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro,” said Kolb. “That’s why it’s imperative that shoes be put on correctly and hoofs trimmed by a certified farrier.”

Since Kolb began his practice in Lodi, the increasing need for on site equine care has resulted in an increase in both staff and facility size. “We now have seven stalls in the hospital for breeding and ill animal care, and a total of seven veterinarians on staff specializing in horse care,” said Kolb.

“And, we are fully mobile at all times for emergency on-call care,” Kolb added.

Each of the clinic’s ambulatory trucks carries essential diagnostic equipment including: an x-ray and ultrasound machine, endoscope, ophthalmoscope, and portable microscope. “Plus, we have a well-stocked pharmacy and supply source with us wherever we go,” said Kolb. “Our goal is to be as fully prepared as possible for the needs of our clients.”

The merger of the two clinics has also resulted in the expansion of the clinic’s service area to include Dane and Columbia counties and parts of three other central Wisconsin counties. The two offices also share technical equipment, and have the ability to co-ordinate on-farm trips. “If I’m in Portage and there is an emergency in Baraboo, I can now contact whoever is closer to make the trip, saving time which may be critical,” Kolb said.

“In some situations, that could mean the difference between an animal’s life and death.”

Yet, the history of the merger would not be complete without noting the substantial contributions of Dr. R. Dean Meyer, a former veterinary practitioner in Lodi from 1969-1975, and the current director of the Middleton

facility.

“Dr. Meyer was instrumental in the early development of the Lodi Veterinary Clinic including the construction of the large animal addition to the facility in 1972,” said Kolb. “He was also instrumental in the formation the Wisconsin State Horse Council, and some years ago developed a line of vitamin and mineral horse products called Doctor’s Choice Supplements and Equi-Shine which is distributed in sixteen states.”

“We not only value Dr. Meyer’s expertise in the field of equine nutrition, but could have completed the clinic merger without his assistance,” Kolb concluded.

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We can now look forward to the fulfilling of our mission to provide optimal and complete health care to the horses of South Central Wisconsin.”

“The merger has been a win-win situation for everyone,” Kolb concluded.

NOTE: The Lodi Equine Clinic is located at 705 N. Main Street in Lodi, Wisconsin. TEL: 608-592-7751, with their Satellite office at 2224 Evergreen Road in Middleton, Wisconsin. TEL: 608-831-4326.

Further information on the equine services offered at the Lodi facility can be viewed online at lodivet.com., with information on their satellite office at madisonequine.com.

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Equine Dentistry by Judith A. Reynolds, Ph.D., P.A.S. Equine Nutritionist - Product and Technical Manager ADM Alliance Nutrition One of the most important aspects of horse care is to make sure horses have teeth that function properly. Equine teeth need to grind the 20-30 pounds of hay or 100 pounds of grass plus feed that the average 1,100 pound horse eats each day. Feeds and forages will be wasted on horses that cannot properly chew them. Proper maintenance of horse teeth usually requires yearly dentistry.

Like other medical sciences, equine dentistry has come a long way in the last few decades. Horse owners who wish to take advantage of the latest in dentistry can schedule a visit from a mobile equine dentistry clinic at their farm. These clinics are often run by a licensed veterinarian with an assistant to keep detailed records and a special clinic room on wheels with a stock for the horse to stand in and over $100,000 in dentistry equipment. It

is not unusual for there to be a waiting list almost a year long for the services of a mobile veterinary dentistry practice. The other option is to haul your horse in to the veterinary/dental clinic for dentistry and other preventive care.

One mobile dentist can work on 10-13 horses in a long, hard day of ten hours or more. The average cost per horse is about $200.00. However, a dentistry session on individual horses that need teeth extracted or incisors shortened might cost over $400.00 each. Each exam begins with the identifying information and history of each horse and proceeds to body weight estimation and body condition scoring. The veterinarian then checks heart rate, respiration rate and general health. If the horse is healthy enough for the dental procedures, he is given a sedative to make him comfortable and quiet and loaded into the stock inside the trailer. Special straps keep him from rearing or fighting and possibly injuring himself during the procedures.

The shape and size of the incisor teeth are measured and the angles of the incisor and molar teeth are determined and recorded. The presence of canine teeth in males is noted and if sharp edges are present, they will be filed down so that they will no longer cut the horse’s tongue or gums. Horse canines are non-functional teeth that do not continue to grow and usually only need to be

September 08

filed down once in the horse’s lifetime. They are behind the incisors and in front of where the bit is placed on a horse’s jaw. The dentist then checks for the presence of up to four ‘wolf teeth’ in front of the large premolars in each dental arcade. Wolf teeth are vestigial remains of the first premolars and serve no useful purpose, but might interfere with the function of some bits. Wolf teeth are either ground down or extracted depending on their size, shape and location.

Special slings hold the horses’ heads and a speculum holds the mouth open during the dental work. The dentist wears a light on his head to help him view the entire mouth. Manual rasps and power grinders are used as needed. Water is sprayed in the mouth to rinse it periodically.

The major amount of dental work is done on the large rows of teeth that make up the upper and lower dental arcades on each side. There are baby and adult teeth that grow continuously throughout horse’s lives and are ground down as the huge amounts of forage and feed are crushed and chopped into pieces small enough to be swallowed by the horse.

Unfortunately for horses, these teeth almost always grow and wear unevenly and end up with sharp points and uneven surfaces.

One dentist estimated that 70% of Quarter Horses aged two years and over have ulcerous sores in their cheeks and tongues from their own teeth unless they have correct dental work done annually. These sores cause continuous pain and reduce performance capability. The average amount of dental work required varies with the breed, age, diet and gender of the horse. Horses in their late twenties and older often start losing teeth, requiring special care from then on to keep their remaining teeth functioning correctly to grind feed. After the dental work is done, the horses are given another drug that quickly reverses the sedation process. They come out of the dentistry trailer alert and calling to their buddies in the barn. They are usually able to eat right away, and their chewing efficiency is often greatly improved.

Yearly dentistry is required for the daily comfort of the horse and to find problems early and save the teeth for as long as possible. Horses are already living longer than their teeth in many cases due to modern nutrition and medicine. Once the teeth are gone, horses need to be fed only processed complete feeds (including forage) such as our Patriot® Senior and Patriot Feed Easy or our SENIORGLO® with FORAGE FIRST® Hay Cubes (soaked in water). Whenever a horse is too thin or loses condition rapidly, the teeth should be examined and corrected.

For more information about horse health and feeding call the Equine Nutrition HELPLINE at 800-680-8254 or visit www.admani.com/AllianceEquine/.

Judith is the lead Equine Nutritionist and Equine Product and Technical manager for ADM. She is a popular speaker on horse nutrition throughout the US. and Canada and writes for several horse-focused publications along with providing the technical info for the ADM website.

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you can expect him to use what he has already learned about seeking relief. Make sure to give relief quickly and at the right time, and you will end up with a horse

By Cynthia McFarland with Chris Cox that is a willing, happy partner who wants to please.

A s k able to show him how to find relief of pressure Up Close with Chris Cox a dozen another way.

Ranch-raised in Australia, Chris h o r s e Finding Answers came to the United States in 1986 to make a owners “I believe it’s very important to set career of working with horses. Years of what their up training situations so the horse finds his working horseback on the ranch near h o r s e s own answers,” says Cox. “I am always setting Queensland gave Chris a healthy respect for m o s t boundaries for the horse to help him find relief the horse’s ability and intelligence, and helped a p p r e c i - but I want him to find the answers himself. I him develop his own methods of ate and don’t want to tell him what to do every minute.” individualized training. you’ll likely get a dozen different answers.

For example, if Cox is teaching Active in the cutting horse world as Some would say treats or food, lateral flexion, he never pulls the horse’s head both a trainer and competitor, Chris has others might think a good rubdown or scratch to the side or uses mechanical devices to hold trained a variety of breeds for different session would be the best reward. Then you’ll the horse’s head in a disciplines. He travels the have owners who think praises and petting are certain position.

United States, Canada, what horses want, or maybe a lazy trail ride “Pulling South America and down to the creek to play in the water. creates resistance, Australia appearing at While all of these scenarios might so I just hold my expos, conducting clinics be pleasant, none of them represent what the hand still where I and horsemanship horse himself values most. want the horse to demonstrations.

His “The gift of relief is the greatest gift ‘give’ to that pres“Come Ride the Journey’ you can give your horse,” says horseman and sure,” Cox notes. “As tour takes him to cities clinician Chris Cox. “Once you understand this soon as the horse across the U.S. each year. and appreciate how important relief is to the gives, I immediately Chris offers week-long horse, you can begin to make great strides in release my hand so intensive horsemanship your training.” he has relief of presclinics at his Outback Hunt for Relief sure because this is Ranch in Mineral Wells, Pressure plays a key role in training how horses learn. I Relief, given at the proper time, is critical when Texas. horses. This pressure can come from your leg, make it easy for him to W e s t e r n training your horse. seat, hand, rein or spur. It can also be find the position I want Horseman recently released photo: David Stoecklein pressure from your physical presence that the because I give him Ride the Journey, by Chris horse reads through your body language and relief as soon as he Cox with Cynthia McFarland, a 225-page, full expression, even when you aren’t touching gets to that position.” color book that details Chris’ practical methods him. Because horses learn through relief of When you handle relief of pressure and training techniques. Packed with pressure, the timing of relief is critical to in the right way, you will create softness and step-by-step exercises and color photos, the successful training. A wise horseman knows willingness in your horse. It becomes the book will help you improve your horsemanship when to give that relief so the horse learns in horse’s idea to respond correctly because you skills, no matter what discipline or breed a positive way. Once the horse sees that relief have set up boundaries that lead him to the you ride. comes from you, he will always look to you for right answers. This is so important because Visit www.chris-cox.com or call relief. you want the horse to be willing mentally, not Chris Cox Horsemanship Company at “All a horse really wants is relief,” just physically.

1-888-81-HORSE for information about the Cox explains. “To him, relief is better than Anytime you’re working with a praise, petting or treats. This is why you horse, whether it is a young, inexperienced Ride the Journey book, upcoming course always want to make sure you are giving the horse, or an older horse you are reschooling, dates and appearances, equipment and training DVDs. horse a clear pathway in right direction by giving him relief at the right moment.”

When you put pressure on the horse – whether that is your presence as you approach on the ground, or your seat, leg or hand when you are riding – the horse responds to that pressure. The key is releasing the pressure IMMEDIATELY when the horse responds correctly. This tells him he’s done something right. The horse quickly learns to seek that relief of pressure and this becomes a major building block in his education.

Keep in mind that relief of pressure can also work in a negative way. Consider a horse that has the bad habit of rearing up. No matter why he started rearing, the end result is usually the same: the rider gets frightened and loosens his grip on the reins so he can grab the saddle to try and stay on. All the horse learns is that the pressure on his mouth goes away when he rears. If he realizes that the relief he’s craving comes when he rears, he’s going to keep rearing until someone is

Meeting the Horse’s Need for Relief: A Key to Successful Training

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Gaining Respect: Leading, Stopping and Backing

by Dennis Auslam

Working with horses and people you become vary aware of both the behavior of the horse and the human. One of the things I see the most is people letting their horses walk all over them. This is a huge cause of concern for me as a trainer, and it is one of the things I focus on.

For many individuals the concept of horse behavior is very difficult to grasp. So many horse owners want to be friends with their horses, which is okay, you can have that.

But a horse is not like any of your other pets. A horse is always in herd behavior mode and if you are busy being a friend, instead of a herd leader, disaster is just around the corner.

In our last article we talked about loungeing and turning to gain control on the ground. In this article we are going to talk at about leading, stopping and backing.

Halter your horse using a rope halter for this exercise. I prefer a rope halter because it encourages the horse to pay atention and behave. A rope halter is not severe when it is used correctly and unless the horse is being really naughty it is not going to hurt

him. This halter works on three pressure points, the poll, the nose and the jowl.

Hold your lead rope approximately 12� off the snap that is attached to the halter, with your thumb up.

Your horse should be positioned to your right, the poll no farther ahead of you than your shoulder. Now, walk off. Your horse should walk off with you, maintaining that position you initially established.. If you horse does not walk off with you encourage him with a tap stick or the end of the lead line and your left hand by reaching around and behind you to either tap his rear or twirl the line at his rear. Do not turn around to do this. This can take some practice, but it will encourage him to move forward with you.

Walking forward 10 to 12 steps stop. Your horse should stop also. If he does not stop, jiggle your rope to get his attention or give a tug to get him to stop.

Now move right into backing up a few steps Do not turn around to back up! You may have to use your tap stick and tap him in the chest. You can also wiggle the lead rope or snap the end of the lead rope back at his chest to get him to step back with you Again, do not turn around to tap him or snap the line at him, just reach around and tap or snap his chest.

Now repeat the whole process again and again. Shortly you will see him moving right with you and he will become completely focused on you and what you are going to do next. That is our goal! To make you the herd leader and have him focus on what you are doing and asking him to do.

As you practice and progress you will find that your horse moves right with you without outside encouragement, that he is always alert and ready for whatever you are asking him to do. You will get to the point

where even if you were to run backwards he will back at your speed and stay out of your space.

Next I would take the horse to a gate and practice going through the gate. Make sure the gate is open away from you. I have seen many accidents where the gate was opened the wrong way and came closed, cathcing the horses hips between the gate and the post. This is a very serious problem and can result in the death of the horse. So note how you open the gate.

The goal here is to not have the horse rush through the gate. You will use the same process you used before as you move through the gate. Move forward, stop and back a few steps, then repeat.

Having your horses attention and respect is a top priority in developing your horse’s skills and developing that relationship you desire with your horse. Gaining this respect on the ground first is going to save you a heap of trouble in the future.

Accomplishing this ground control is so important, and so often neglected, when it can acctually be the easiest thing to train your horse to do. Overlooking this is a definite recipe for disaster. What most of us don’t realize is that because of the way the horse thinks it is actually our responsibility as the horse owner to teach him these things.

Remember, you are always teaching your horse something everytime you even just go into his stall. Be aware of what you are teaching him. It is your responsibility!

Dennis Auslam is the owner/operator of Redwood Stables in Morton, MN. He trains both horse and rider through lessons and clincs and has been working with horses all of his life. Yu can contact him at 507-430-0342 or visit his website at www.redwoodstables.com

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Mark Your Calendars for the 2009 Midwest Horse Fair®April 17-19 2009 at the Alliant Energy Center Madison, WI It’s a bird…it’s a plane…no, it’s SuperHorse! To celebrate 30 years of bringing the very best of premier horse fairs to the area, the Midwest Horse Fair® announces the 2009 theme -- “SuperHorse!” “The horse industry in Wisconsin is an important part of our state’s identity,” said Rhonda Reese, General Manager of the Midwest Horse Fair®. “To commemorate the 30th anniversary of this event, ‘SuperHorse,’ seemed like the perfect theme to recognize these magnificent animals and all the horse owners in the Midwest.” The 30th annual Midwest Horse Fair® will be held April 17-19, 2009 at the Alliant Energy Center in Madison, WI. Started in 1979, The Midwest Horse Fair® has been growing and going strong for 30 years. During that time, attendance has increased to over 50,000 people during the three-day event. Over 500 exhibitors offer unique shopping and educational opportuni-

ties for horse lovers and owners.There are hundreds of clinics, seminars and events that feature top horse professionals from all over the country.Demonstrations and on-going entertainment appeal to both horse owners and those who just love horses. The entire weekend is full of family friendly activities.

From food and fun, to saddles and sales, the Midwest Horse Fair® has something for everyone. Whether you are a horse lover, new horse owner, or seasoned professional, you will find something that you will thoroughly enjoy at the Midwest Horse Fair®.

The best way to get a sneak peek at all of the upcoming attractions is to visit the Midwest Horse Fair® website at www.midwesthorsefair.com. Visit often as new events and clinicians are added on a regular basis.

The Midwest Horse Fair® is owned by the Wisconsin State Horse Council, Inc (WSHC). All proceeds from the Fair are

Women & Horse Expo: “Who Says You Can’t Do It?!”

The Missouri State Fairgrounds in Sedalia, Missouri will be the location for Women & Horses Expo 2008 from October 24 - 26. Among the presenters and clinicians will be Bonnie Davis from California. Davis is an avid trail rider, horsecamper, Consulting Editor to ‘Trail Rider’ magazine, writer and owner of Two Horse Enterprises dedicated to trail riding and horsecamping.

Davis will host the forum and discussion “Who Says You Can’t Do It?!”.

She maintains “one is never to old to ride.

You just have to have the attitude to get on your horse and go. After all, who says you can’t do it?”.

Drawing from her own experiences, Davis feels “attitude is what it’s all about. If you want to ride, you will. If you say I can’t, you won’t. No one can tell you what you can and can’t do. It’s all in your head. Hopefully some of my experiences and yours will help other gals stay on their horses or get back on their horses.

“At 19, 30 even 40 I wouldn’t get on a mounting block or a trailer fender for nothing.

It was called pride. At 67 I’m looing for every rock, stump, trailer fender, hillside, creek bank I can find to get back on my horse when I get off. The important thing is to remember I’m not the only one looking for those mounting items. Others are too. Sometimes, it just seems like I’m the only one.” Davis concluded.

In addition to “Who Says You Can’t Do It?!” Bonnie will also present “Horsecamping — Expanding Your Trail Riding Adventures”. Topics and information on where to go trail riding, getting ready to

camp, preparing a horse for camping, using water, selecting feeds to meet environmental considerations and more will be presented.

Regardless if one is a beginner or a pro, “Horsecamping” will provide information and a tip or two for organizing that first or next trip.

For more information on the Women & Horses Expo, go to website or call (417) 5811155. To contact Bonnie Davis, call (510) 299-5212 or e-mail .

returned to the WSHC and are used to represent and foster a unified equine industry in Wisconsin, promote the equine through leadership, education, service and communication, and to take a proactive role in the future growth and development of the equine industry.

For additional information, please contact the Midwest Horse Fair® by phone at (920) 623-5515 or e-mail -manager@midwesthorsefair.com.

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September 08

(you'll recognize the boss mare easily, she's the one standing in front of the water trough, playing in the fresh clean water and slowly sipping until she is satiated, while the rest of the herd stands in line, thirsty but patient, awaiting their turn in the pecking order).

Although the boss mare enjoys many perks, like first access to food and water, the best shade and the best rolling spot; along with these perks comes the awesome responsibilities of protecting the herd and keeping order.

The boss mare controls the actions of each herd member through her body language. When her head is down in the grass and she is quietly munching, her herd mates will be relaxed. When her head comes up, ears prick forward and her muscles tighten, the rest of the herd knows to prepare for flight. They will follow her anywhere on her signal.

Just to make sure the horses all pay attention to her in times of stress, the boss mare will periodically push the herd individuals around a little so that they are in the habit of responding to her. When she directs her gaze at an individual, flattens her ears and takes a step toward him, the subordinate horse knows to immediately move away. If they don't respond quickly enough, she might leave some teeth marks on his rear end.

Subordinate herd mates will quickly learn to watch the body language of their leader at all times and to respond without question to her movements.

Wouldn't it be nice to have the kind of relationship with your horse that they respond to your requests without question?

If you have the opportunity to observe a herd, you will learn to recognize the subtle communications that constantly occur.

For instance, a frightened horse will elevate his head, tense his ears, stiffen his tail and hold his breath; all of these actions communicate an outside threat to the other horses and they will instantly act the same way and look in the same direction. A relaxed and safe horse will lower his head (the lower it goes the more relaxed he is), relax his ears, lick his lips, chew, drop his tail and take a deep sigh.

Horses communicate with their body language, with the head position, ear position, facial expressions, feet, tail, mouth and nose. Horses receive communication from us in the same way, whether we know it or not.

The desired relationship between horse and human is that of a herd of two. According to the laws of the herd (the only rules horses really understand) the hierarchy is linear, meaning each and every individual of the herd is either dominate over or subordinate to each and every other individual. In your herd of two, your choice is clear: you must be the dominant member, the alpha individual, the "boss mare."

You must earn this respect, admiration and obedience by controlling the space of your horse and the "resources" of your herd (if your horse is frisking you for treats, HE is controlling the resources).

Understanding Horse Behavior

by Julie Goodnight

How d o horses' behaviors in the wild relate to the bad behaviors we see in domestic horses?

Before we can ever hope to understand, let alone control the movement of a horse, it is important to know the various behaviors that motivate a horse to move in the first place. Being a prey animal means the horse's first reaction to danger is to run, hell bent for leather, away from the perceived threat. React first, think later.

Everyone knows that horses are flight animals; in fact, horses are the very definition of flighty and depend on this behavior for survival. What is often misunderstood about horses is, how deep the flight response goes in a horse's nature and that every movement a horse is capable of and every step he takes has some significance.

Everything about the horse is linked to its flight

response.

Crazy as it sounds, even their laziness is related to the flight response. By nature horses are generally lazy, for the sole purpose of preserving energy in case it is needed in flight. In the current trend of natural horsemanship, far too much is sometimes made of the predator-prey relationship, since horses, after all, have been domesticated for thousands of years and don't really think of humans as carnivorous predators.

However, it is important to understand that the prey instinct is the origin of the horse's behavior as we know it today and it is what motivates their movement. Horses are herd animals, again related to prey-dom, meaning their survival is dependent on the herd. Safety in numbers.

Herd behavior is another important motivating factor for a horse and is present in our everyday dealings with horses, more so than is often recognized. Again, every movement a horse makes has meaning and when given a choice, the horse will always move toward the protection of the herd. These are fundamental and deep layers of horse behavior and the subject could fill many volumes, but the one thing we can deal with here, is to develop an understanding of how we can control the movements of a horse in our presence.

The first thing to understand is that the horse feels safer when he is moving his feet, and the more nervous or uncertain he gets, the more he wants to move his feet. Yet there is nothing a horse likes better than to feel protected enough that he can snooze, standing or prone, knowing that the herd leader is watching out for his safety.

The herd leader, a/k/a boss mare, is responsible for the safety of the herd and with a second's notice, must be able to motivate the entire herd to flight.

She earns the respect, admiration, obedience and, most importantly, attentiveness of the herd by dominating every move they make and by controlling the resources of the herd

September 08 The first step in controlling your horse's movement is to control your own body language. Your horse will notice your posture, eye contact, your foot movements, the elevation of your shoulders, the tone of your voice and the rhythm of your breathing. Be aware of the actions on your part and know that you are constantly communicating with your horse through your body language.

If your horse takes a step toward you and you back away, you have just told him he is in charge. If you get scared, tense your muscles and hold your breath, your horse will mirror your actions and instantly become frightened. All horses, no matter how high in the hierarchy, will gratefully accept the leadership of another individual, as long as the leader has demonstrated their commitment to controlling and protecting the herd.

For a horse to accept a human as leader, that human must be able to control the horse's space and must never betray his trust by causing him fear or pain. Once they have accepted the individual (horse or human) as leader, they will be relaxed, compliant, obedient and happy. In natural horsemanship, we use ground work (round pen and lead-line) to control the horse's space so that he becomes subordinate.

Beyond just controlling his space, we learn to communicate with the horse through our body language, to develop a strong bond and trust between leader and follower. The horse must be treated firmly but with kindness and above all, your interactions with the horse must be consistent so that he can learn to trust them. This kind of relationship with the horse is the ideal, but one that many horsemen find illusive.

To have a horse that is happy, respectful and obedient, who willingly does whatever you ask and responds to your most subtle cues, you must first become his leader and earn his respect. Learn to control your horse's space and communicate with your own body language in a way that he understands, and you will not only earn his respect, but admiration as well.

Julie Goodnight Natural Horsemanship Training™Goodnight Training Stables, Inc.™ PO Box 397 · Poncha Springs CO · 81242 phone (719) 530-0531 · phone toll free (800) 225-8827 · fax (719) 530-0939 www.juliegoodnight.com

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FALL REGIONAL HORSE OWNER PROGRAMS OFFERED THROUGHOUT MN The University of Minnesota Horse Team is offering four fall regional horse owner education programs throughout Minnesota in 2008. Each program offers researched based information and knowledgeable speakers identified specifically for that region by a committee of local horse experts and enthusiasts.

Speakers for these programs include University of Minnesota faculty and staff and local veterinarians. The dates, locations and topics include: Saturday, October 4th in Morris at the UM-Morris Science Building. The program begins at 1:00 pm. Topics include: Bits 101, First Aid and Emergency Management, Equine Behavior, Dentistry, Unwanted Horses Roundtable, and Lameness in the Performance Horse. Registration deadline is Monday, September 29th.

Saturday, October 18th in Bemidji at the Northwest Technical College. The program begins at 1:00 pm. Topics include: Nutrition, Dermatology and Allergies, First Aid and Emergency Management, Unwanted Horses Roundtable, Elderly Horse Care, and Optimizing Your Hay Supply. Registration deadline is Monday, October 13th.

Saturday, October 25th in Two Harbors at Minnehaha Elementary School. The program begins at 1:00 pm. Topics include: Optimizing your Hay Supply, Lameness in the Performance Horse, Ask the Vet Roundtable, Nutrition, Unwanted Horses Roundtable, and First Aid and Wound Management.

Registration deadline is Monday, October 20th.

Saturday, November 22nd in Cambridge at Cambridge-Isanti High School. The program begins at 9:30 am. Topics include: Evaluating Difficult Lameness, Unwanted Horse Roundtable , Rehabilitation and Complementary Therapies, Optimizing Your Hay Supply , and Elderly Horse Care.

Registration deadline is Monday, November 17th.

Participants can select three different topics at each location (two topics will presented simultaneously). The cost to attend each program is $15/person and includes a printed proceeding. Due to pre-printed proceedings, registration is required five days before each program and doors open thirty minutes before the program begins. The program sponsor is ADM Alliance Nutrition. Secure online registration, program agendas, and additional information is available at www.extension.umn.edu/horse.

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M idwest H orse D igest beleive they will be ready to hang out their shingle and conquer the horse world. Nothing could be further from the truth. No art form can be learned in sixty days. Most apprentices ask me, “where do I start?” I tell them, “The beginning would be nice.”

Horsemanship is not all about riding horses. If you’re too good to shovel manure then you are in the wrong business. If you are too proud to clean the trailer, go somewhere else. If you are too wise to take orders, then seek life elsewhere. If you are too thin skinned to accept criticism, there’s the gate. If you wear your feelings on your sleeves, you have chosen the wrong endeavor. If you cannot get up in the middle of the night as part of your job, then do not enter. If you are intolerant to extreme heat and cold, this work zone is not for you. If you cannot handle long hours that seem almost unfair or unreasonable, then you do not understand the nature of this business. If you are afraid to get dirty or ruin your clothes, join the country club instead. If you shy away from responsibility, then turn back. If you are reluctant to go above and beyond the call of duty the horse world is not for you.

The world of horsemanship is its own life-style. Horses and horse people have their own way and it is a way that must be learned.

Although it is work, it can be the most fun and rewarding job I know of. It is only learned by doing and being involved. To learn the ins and out of the horse industry it must be lived everyday. In my opinion, a good apprentiship program not only teaches you the skills needed to be a horseman, it also teaches you how to run the business end of this industry.

This business end is extremely varied. A good horseman is a jack of all trades, and a good program will teach many of these trades.

A top hand must not only know how but must be willing to do anything, from the most menial, lowly task, to the job that takes the most experience. My program not only teach-

Tough Enough!

by Craig Cameron The longest or the shortest journey begins with a single step. For the novice or advanced horse person who is interested in enrolling in an apprentice program, the first step would be to make contact with the trainer of your preference. This choice should be determined by the goals you desire to achieve. If your ambitions are in reining, then a reining trainer would obviously be your choice. Whether it be cutting, western pleasure, jumping or dressage, see if the trainer you had in mind offers an apprenticeship or work program.

If the trainer is accepting trainees he might require a resume that states your age, experience, past employment and standard job information. One thing that the trainer might be interested in is the length of your internship.

Trainers are looking for people who are willing to work. Experience is a plus, but like a good horse, enthusiasm and trainability might be the most important traits of a good trainee. Before you apply you might bear in mind that horse training is not just about riding horses. The world of horses is solid labor and a workout every day, but if it is what you desire than it is a labor of love.

Most apprentices picture themselves riding each day and galloping through green pastures in a perfect, relaxed and pleasurable atmosphere. They see themselves learning the art of horsemanship and training at a high level in no time at all. After sixty perfect days of exclusive and private work with the trainer they

September 08

es the skills of riding but the art of cleaning pens, scrubbing water tanks, bedding stalls and trailers, watching and foaling out mares, correct grooming of horses, feeding, building fence, imprinting foals, people skills, adaptability, caring for tack and doctoring horses and cattle. The skills of changing flats, cross country drives that take all night getting to the next clinic, setting up the booth at expos around the country, ordering feed, rotating pastures, saddling horses, dragging arenas, helping and teaching at clinics, trailering and traveling on the road and cowboy traditions are all taught at the Craig Cameron University (CCU).

As you can see, my program is extremely varied and needs to be if one is to truly learn how to run a horse operation. However, the actual art of horsemanship can only be learned in the saddle. Much like a young horse, the journeymen apprentice only learns through repetition, so he needs to ride on a regular bases. Routine is the key.

At my ranch we start early with the feeding program. Horses are feed by individual needs and it is the apprentice’s job to be sure each horse is properly maintained. It is the trainers job to make sure the apprentice is doing his job correctly. After feeding, horses are gathered, haltered and groomed for riding.

Saddling is next and a meticulous eye is kept for correctness of equipment. Correctness is a habit and is strived for each day and expected at CCU. Apprentices are taught how to warm horses up and what to look for during this procedure. I like to be on hand during all riding sessions and school the trainees about the use of hands, seat and legs. I teach everything from flexibility to position and control. At all times we work with and not against the horse. No abuse is ever allowed. Apprentices are slowly taught how to develop circles, stops, backs, roll backs, lead changes and spins. It is continually stressed to develop foundation and fundamentals for horse and rider. Both horse and rider must learn how to do specific maneuvers before they learn how to do them fast. One must learn the nature and the mechanics of the horse. To be a great teacher one must learn how to be a great pupil. I tell my students that learning takes time. Remember in any relationship all parties must win; teacher, student and horse.

So you still want to be an apprentice. Be sure it is a bite you want to chew.

Horsemanship is an art form and art forms take time. The equine industry is a ride in more ways than one. But if you are passionate about horses it is a ride that you will love. Anything worthwhile takes desire, determination and dedication. It is through the beginng that you get to the winning. Stick with it and remember, a champion is not a person who never looses, it is a person who never quits. So you think that you still want to be an apprentice. Can you handle it? Are you tuff enough?

Work hard and ride smart.

Craig Cameron For information on Craig Cameron, known as the cowboy’s clinician, his tools, videos and upcoming clinics, visit his website, www.craigcameron.com

September 08

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Weatherford, Texas, July 29, 2008 A landmark meeting of the minds last month brought nine pillars of the equine community to the roundtable for the first time – and the results were extraordinary.

The "Who's Who" gathering in June included AQHA world champion Robbie Schroeder; NFR heeler Britt Bockius; PRCA and AQHA champion CR Bradley; Hall-ofFame reiner Clint Haverty; PRCA heeler Twister Cain; working-cow and ranch horse extraordinaire Thomas Saunders; AQHA world champion Clay Logan; NCHA cutting horse trainer, judge and monitor Bobby Hunt; and APHA world champion AJ Garcia – all performance-horse superstars who proceeded to hammer out the exact moves that make up the perfect team roping run.

In doing so, the nine bridged the chasm of standards between show horses and rodeo horses by finding one point of reference; they defined one great rope horse regardless of venue.

"It was amazing, after we worked a day or two, how really close together we all were," said Hunt. "You know, for years you either won from being fast or you won from being judged. This method where the time is involved is a really neat concept."

The new National Team Roping Horse Association is sanctioning events using a unique maneuver-based and time-to-points conversion system, and is tracking lifetime earnings and genetics of rope horses – a component that's been missing in the rapidly growing team roping industry. The NTRHA's 2009 schedule includes major events such as a 5year-old Futurity, Sweepstakes for 6- and 7year-olds, and an 8-and-over Challenge, in addition to its World Championships.

The nine individuals in attendance at the first-ever NTRHA seminar, hosted by the National Ropers Supply Training Center in Decatur, Texas, represented a one-room assembly of knowledge that, in Hunt's opinion, happens only once in a lifetime. Hand-picked

by NTRHA Director of Judges John Miller (an AQHA and PRCA world champion team roper), they'd walked in packing millions of dollars in earnings and centuries of experience, but had also brought widely varying perspectives. The fact that all nine found themselves on the same page surprised even them.

"Everybody was dead-on," said Cain. "We judged 45 head of horses making live runs, and the top three were the same for all of us."

As videos and live runs were analyzed, the horsemen's open-minded approach and the format's objectivity melded differing opinions into one. Any of the inaugural judges who worried that the faster runs would supersede the high-scored runs was relieved to see that if a horse had all the right moves and scored high, he was usually also fast. Anyone who worried that the high-scored runs would be too tough to beat was relieved to see that the addition of time helped balance the payoff.

"I didn't know how the time deal would work being part of the format, but this seminar showed me that it sure took care of a lot of stuff

CUTTERS, REINERS, ROPERS BREAK NEW GROUND IN ROPE HORSE INDUSTRY – it made it like another judge," Schroeder said. "Like instead of five judges, there's six counting the time. It evened everything out. I think it's a really good deal."

Speaking from the rodeo side of things, Cain liked the fact that a guy who's fast could get a bottom-hole check even if his horse didn't work at the top of his game that day. On the flip side, Haverty liked the way the scoring end of it could push a slower run into the money.

Schroeder feels the balance of the time element will get more people involved in the rope horse industry, while Bockius' favorite aspect was that the format will give rise to a new kind of rope horse to market to the public – one that's more user-friendly and stays sound longer.

"Guys that make rope horses right now have to try to create a rodeo horse that's

so fast some people can't manage it," Hunt said, or they "have to make a $75,000 World-Show type horse" that has what Bockius calls "too many buttons" for the average

Joe. What's more, Schroeder thinks the NTRHA's concept will allow clients to let trainers keep horses longer and show them more, because with goals of winning the Futurity and other "majors," they have a chance to earn the kinds of dollars that pay for their investment.

The NTRHA held its second seminar for sanctioned judges July 21-23, also at the NRS Training Center, where it certified the likes of AQHA champions Rick Rosaschi and Elzie Harrison, Open Snaffle Bit Futurity champion Robbie Boyce, nationally ranked PRCA heeler Zane Bruce and NRS Training Center Director Krece Harris, among others.

For more information on the NTRHA's introductory events this fall (featuring free horseback clinics

by John Miller and the respective judges), call 817-598-0110 or visit www.NTRHA.com.

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September 08

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“Rider Position, Part 6, Exercises on the Longe Line” In this article, I will share some exercises that are done when the rider is “on the longe.” This means that the rider is mounted on a horse while it is being longed by a helper. Without the reins for security and balance, a rider can use this technique to build confidence and establish a more correct form.

Working on a longe line was such an important stage in my development as a rider, and I want to share with you.

To prepare for this lesson, you will need a consistent, well schooled horse tacked up with a saddle, a halter with longe line properly attached, and leg protection. Your helper should know how to longe a horse. Practice exercises on the longe in a large enclosed area like a paddock, corral, or arena to give you and your horse more security.

These exercises can be done in either a Western or English saddle. A Western saddle will help you feel more secure and confident.

However, using an English saddle for these exercises is a good way to build better form, balance, and confidence. For the purpose of this article, I will explain these exercises as if the rider is doing them in a Western saddle.

Many of the same exercises that I already have explained in this series can be done on the longe line. I now am going to share some special variations that take advantage of the rider not having the use of the reins to help balance. The same techniques for properly doing these exercises still apply. They are: • Do each exercise slowly.

• Breathe because it encourages relaxation.

If you tend to hold your breath, try talking or

singing to encourage regular breathing.

• Remember our mantra: “CENTER-SQUAREBALANCED.” Continually analyze your position using these three key words to maintain proper rider position as you work to improve your flexibility.

• STOP if you experience any pain or have medical conditions that could be complicated by doing any of these exercises. Seek advice from a health care professional before continuing.

To start this lesson, the rider should be mounted on the horse. The helper should be in position, holding the longe line that is attached to the horse. As the rider uses her aids to ask her horse to move forward into the walk, she should tie a knot in her reins and put the knot over the saddle horn. The rider should be able to do this without looking. Note: the rider is responsible in this lesson for keeping her horse out on the circle and for speed control through the use of her seat, leg, and voice aids. The helper can assist in keeping the horse on the circle by “tossing” the longe line towards him if he falls in.

The rider should start at the walk with her arms at her sides. Let the horse walk a few circles on the longe to allow the rider to feel comfortable being on the longe and not having any rein contact.

The next step is to extend the walk and begin the exercises. Here is a list of exercises the rider should try on the longe while the helper assists in critiquing her form.

Upper Body Rotations: Do this exercise at the walk. Extend both

September 08

arms straight out to your sides at shoulder height. Slowly twist at the waist so one arm extends in front while the other arm extends behind you. Then rotate so the opposite arm comes forward. You should feel a nice stretch in your torso. Tip: To do this exercise properly, the rider must continue to look straight ahead and relax her upper body. Her legs should stay relaxed with her hips moving with the horse, and her weight in the saddle. It is important not to twist the lower body or swing the legs in motion with the arms. The stretch we are looking for comes from keeping the lower body relaxed and in position while the upper body from the waist rotates.

Four-Point Arm Circles: This exercise can be done at the trot. Ask your horse to pick up a trot and extend both arms straight out in front of you. Trot a few strides in this position to get the feel of trotting without rein contact. Keeping your left arm in front of you, bring your right arm up overhead.

Hold this position for a few seconds, and then rotate the arm behind you with palm down.

Hold. Rotate the arm down to your side. Hold, and then return it to the starting position in front of you. Now repeat this sequence with the left arm, keeping the right arm straight out in front of you. Tip: This exercise is more challenging because the horse’s movement at the trot requires the rider to keep her balance by putting more weight in her seat. The rider should take her time and continue breathing to help her relax.

Double Arm 2-Point Stretches: Starting with both arms in front of you, stretch both arms overhead and hold. Now slowly drop both arms down and hold them behind the saddle with palms facing backward.

Keep the shoulders back. Repeat for several repetitions.

Are you ready for more challenge? For the next set of exercises, drop your stirrups, but keep your toes up and heels down! If you feel less secure, adjust your shoulders further back so your seat stays in closer contact with the saddle.

Hands Behind the Back: Trot a circle without stirrups and with your hands dropped down behind you. Hold this position for several strides, and then bend the elbows and bring the hands up so they are clasped behind the small of your back. Trot a few strides in this position.

Shoulder Rotations: While continuing to trot without stirrups, bring the elbows up and touch the top of your shoulders with your fingertips. First, using the right arm, keep contact with the top of the shoulder, and rotate the shoulder to make medium-sized circles clockwise with the elbow. Do several circles rotating the right shoulder, and then repeat the exercise with the left shoulder.

Shoulder Shrugs: While continuing at a trot without stirrups, shrug both shoulders up as if pulling them up to your ears. Hold this stretch for a few seconds, and then relax the shoulders down.

September 08 As you pick up your shoulders, breathe in through your nose. As you release them down, exhale out through your mouth.

Arms Up and Down: Still continuing at the trot without stirrups, bring both arms up overhead and breathe in.

Hold for a few seconds and strides. Then, exhale and bring both arms down to your sides as you relax them.

As we continue to add to the repertoire of exercises, remember to be creative as you do them. Mix and match them to develop your own personal warm-up and flexibility routine.

Here is a sequence of upper body exercises that will add more challenge to your stretching routine. Do these exercises at an extended trot. This adds some degree of difficulty because the horse’s greater movement challenges the rider to keep her balance and position. It helps to build the rider’s skills for future exercises at the canter or lope.

Note: Whether the rider is using a Western or an English saddle, she should post when doing these exercises unless a sitting trot is specified. The rider should let the horse’s movement lift her out of the saddle slightly as she posts while maintaining her balance and position.

Arms on Hips-Posting Trot: While at the normal trot, place your hands on your hips. Pick up your stirrups without looking. Extend the trot or jog. Pick up a posting trot and place both hands on the hips.

Make several longe circles as you continue to post.

Arm Extensions-Posting Trot: Add a little more challenge to the last exercise by continuing at the posting trot and extending your arms out at your sides for several strides. Now bring them forward in front of you as you continue to post. Then bring them back out to the side again.

Arm Circles-Posting Trot: Continue posting at an extended trot and extend your arms out to your sides. Look to the inside of the circle at the helper. Make small clockwise arm circles at shoulder height with both arms. Do several strides of this exercise.

Now drop the arms down to the sides. Finish this set of exercises by looking to the outside to stretch the head and neck, and then look back to the inside. Continue several repetitions of these neck stretches. They should feel good and relax any tension you may have built up in your neck Here is a little test to see how effective these exercises have been at improving your balance, position, and confidence. While still on the longe line, try sitting your horse’s extended jog or trot. Do you feel that you are sitting better, meaning more balanced than when you first started the lesson? Do you feel more relaxed in your upper body and better able to move it independently from the lower body?

Do you feel more confident and secure in your position? If you continue to work on these exercises, I guarantee you will build these important skills.

My book Head to Toe Horsemanship has even more exercises that will help you improve your position and balance. To order it or other instructional materials, please visit my website at www.lynnpalm.com or call 800-503-2824.

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Page 26 Nothing Small about this Miniature Show!

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September 08

The American Shetland Ponies Are on YouTube.com!

Over 5,000 Entries Anticipated for the Morton, IL- The Chinese gave United States the 2008 American Miniature Horse Panda bears and the American Shetland Pony Registry National Championship Show Club (ASPC) gave Hong Kong two beautiful in Tulsa Shetland ponies. As a tribute to the tremen-

“remarkable,” implying that PC Karmel Kid is the outstanding pony of Hong Kong.

The YouTube.com presentation of the event is a charming and not to be missed video of the “Hand-Over” ceremony. Elated with the energy the ponies created in Hong Kong, Ip states, “On behalf of the Hong Kong Equestrian Federation, I would like to thank the American Shetland Pony Club for their generosity and kindness in giving us this magnificent pair of Shetland ponies.”

“Thanks to the vision of the American Shetland Pony Club and a handful of visionary equine companies, we are able to share our wonderful American Shetland Ponies with the riders in Hong Kong,” said Robb. “We are delighted to play a small role in honoring their Olympic effort.”

dous effort the Hong Kong Equestrian Club (HKEC) and the Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC) put forth to host the 2008 Olympic Tulsa, OK- Equestrian Games in Hong Kong. Now, highThe annual lights of the touching “Hand-Over” Ceremony A m e r i c a n held July 10th in Hong Kong can now be seen M i n i a t u r e on the popular website YouTube.com.

H o r s e Under the direction of Dr. Simone Ip, R e g i s t r y President of the HKEC, the Club hosted a cap( A M H R ) tivating presentation ceremony to receive the N a t i o n a l ponies. This has all been captured on Championship Show is scheduled for YouTube.com for everyone to enjoy. Zona September 4th-13th at the Expo Square Arena Schneider, Director of Operations for ASPC in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The AMHR National and Marketing Director, Johnny Robb, were on Championship Show is highlight of the year hand to present the tiny ambassadors to the For more information contact the American determining the Nation’s the top Miniature city of Hong Kong. The ponies were welcomed Shetland Pony Club at Horses. into individual public riding schools where www.shetlandminiature.com As in previous years, the show Hong Kong’s young equestrians will learn how Watch the entire “Hand-Over” Ceremony in Hong committee is expecting more than 5000 to ride on them.

Kong on YouTube. entries. The AMHR National Championship In effort to completely assimilate the http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uHGQ34-psVo Show is gearing runs a full slate of classes American Shetlands into their culture, Ip The American Shetland Pony Club, the American Show throughout the day and evening. Admission is announced a Pony Naming Contest to be held Pony Registry and The American Miniature Horse free and spectators are welcome throughout in Hong Kong to give the ponies new Chinese Registry are non-profit organizations established to prethe week and a half long event. names. The response from the people of Hong serve and refine the bloodlines of these small equines and promote the enjoyment of small equines.

The AMHR National Championship Kong was powerful.

Recognized as the oldest and most versatile registry in Show now offers close to 300 classes for Among hundreds of entries the sug- the United States, the American Shetland Pony Miniature Horses to enter. Competitions in hal- gested two winning names were three Chinese ter, driving, jumping, costume, youth classes characters meaning “precious,” implying that Club offers a variety of programs for Shetland and Miniature Horse enthusiasts of all ages. and more stir the crowd as they cheer on their FMF Imagination the brown and white Pinto Pony Visit their website at www.shetlandminiature.com favorites. And with over $50,000 in cash and Shetland Pony will be much treasured and or 81-B East Queenwood Road, Morton, IL prizes in championship and futurity classes the loved by the people of Hong Kong. The second 61550. atmosphere is one of high stakes and high set of three Chinese characters meant spirits.

AMHR Miniature Horses may comTwo Lucky Youths Win Ponies at American pete in one of two divisions. Division “A” Cloverdale, IN –Two Lucky Youths Directors for the American Shetland Pony Club Miniatures must stand at 34” and under, while Division “B” Miniatures must measure under won big with a small equine prize. At the (ASPC), said the pony, known on his farm as 38”. But don’t let their small stature fool you; American Shetland Shetland Pony Congress “Sweetie Pie,” is excellent for a child. After Miniature Horses are big fun for children and this month, two American Shetland Ponies viewing the new pair together, he said, “The were awarded to winners of two youth essay nice thing is they will grow up together.” adults.

Youths from around the country exer- Eperthener seems to have a genuine appreci“The exciting array of classes, com- contests. cised their writing skills for the chance to win ation for youth and a deep understanding that bined with the multiple shopping opportunities one of these amazing Shetland Ponies. the youth is the future in the American at the mini-mall make this is a can’t-miss event Entries were Shetland Pony Club. for the entire family,” says Johnny Robb, numbered and Cross Country’s Mr. Banker has AMHR Marketing Director. “Each year more judged anony- already settled into his new home at Star Lake horse lovers and families come to enjoy the mously. Kimberly Farm. He traveled home with 10-year-old show. And once they come they are hooked on Cotter was the Kasey Waxler at our little horses.” lucky winner of the conclusion of As in 2007, the 2008 AMHR E’s Sir Nite and the American Kasey Waxler of Shetland Pony Nationals Championships will be televised for Pennsylvania C o n g r e s s . future programming. “Watching these horses was awarded Kasey’s mother, on TV is like reliving the show all over again”, In driver’s seat, youth essay Cross Country’s Cathy Waxler said Marcia Yeager, who’s son Gary Yeager winner, Kimberly Cotter drives Mr. Banker. noted that Kasey made it the winner’s circle with Laurie her new pony, E’s Sir Nite K i m b e r l y was extremely with Fran Eperthener.

Villalpando’s Grand National Champion Cotter, the new excited with the Stallion, N.J. Sandhill Spirit. owner of E’s Sir Nite, is only 7-years-old. win. She said, Lucky Kasey Waxler accepts So mark your calendar to attend the her new Champion pony, William Eperthener was the previous owner “Kasey already Cross Country’s Mr. Banker AMHR National Championship Show held at and the donor of this special pony.

Two years has all kinds of from donor, Belinda Bagby the Expo Square Arena in ago, E’s Sir Nite became the National Futurity plans for him.

Tulsa, Oklahoma, this Champion and the Modern Liberty Champion. We already have about 30 Miniature Horses, September 4th-13th.

Eperthener’s wife, Fran drove the 5-year-old but this is our first Shetland.” Belinda Bagby of bay gelding into the arena for the presentation Cross Country Farm and a member of the For more information about ceremony. Then Cotter confidently took over Board of Directors for the ASPC, donated Mr. the AMHR National the reins and drove out with her new pony. Banker, a classic buckskin colt. “I picked this Championship Show visit Cotter has experience with Miniature Horses, little guy out right away,” said Bagby. “I just www.shetlandminiature.com but E’s Sir Nite is her first Shetland. knew he would be perfect for the Essay under Events or call 309-263-4044.

Eperthener, a member of the Board of Contest.”

September 08 Acampo, CA-

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launched their Platform® Shetland Congress Vetrolin® Grooming Award Winner Carole Ann Ford Miniature Horse and Pony To Receive a Year’s Supply of Vetrolin® Products will soon be receiving a Feed in 2006. Marketing year’s supply of Vetrolin® Director for the ASPC, brand grooming products from Johnny Robb said, “The name in the animal health care industry Vetrolin® manufacturer Farnam. Judges at this for more than 60 years. Today, Farnam is the Vetrolin® Grooming Award is just another year’s American Shetland Pony Congress, largest marketer of equine products in the example of Farnam’s commitment to our small held in early August in United States. equines.”

Cloverdale, Indiana, Two more Vetrolin® Grooming Farnam’s were asked to choose Award winners will be chosen at the AMHR Vetrolin® line the Shetland Pony offers a National Championships to be held in Tulsa, that outshined all the complete line Oklahoma September 4th-13th. “Because the rest. The decision of horse AMHR National show is so large, with over of the three judges g r o o m i n g 5000 entries, Farnam generously opted to give was unanimous products that two Vetrolin® Grooming Awards”, explained and Ford’s Wauk-Aallow you to Robb, “One for A size miniature horses, 34Way Daphne was pamper your inches and under and one for B size miniadeclared the winner horse in a tures, 38-inches and under.” of the 2008 Vetrolin® With such great Vetrolin® products spa-like expeGrooming Award. rience. The from Farnam, Wauk-A-Way Daphne and her Sharon V e t r o l i n ® foal are sure to maintain their gleaming coats.

Housley exhibited bath, condi- For more information regarding Vetrolin® Wauk-A-Way Daphne tioner, detan- products, visit www.farnamhorse.com. For in the Classic Mare gler, and more information about the Shetland Ponies and Foal of Current shine are just and Miniature Horses, visit Year class. That some of the www.shetlandminiature.com. meant extra difficulty products that Vetrolin is a registered trademark of for Wauk-A-Way are designed Farnam Companies, Vetrolin® Grooming Award winner Wauk-A-Way Daphne Daphne’s grooms to make any Inc. Platform is a regisat the 2008 American Shetland Pony Congress because she and the and exhibitor, Sharon Housley accept s horse’s coat tered trademark of young foal by her side the prize from ASPC Board President, Larry Parnell healthy, clean, Farnam Companies, both had to look and shiny.

Inc. immaculate to win the Vetrolin® award.

Farnam’s Platform® Feed division (Photo courtesy of Housley was thrilled to win the class but has been a strong supporter of the American winning the Vetrolin® Grooming Award Shetland Pony Club (ASPC) since they Washburn Photography) was an honor she never anticipated!

Farnam has been a recognized

Shetland Pony Congress This American Shetland Pony was foaled February 20th of this year. Even at his young age, Cross Country’s Mr. Banker is already a Grand Champion having won the title in Area 5.

He also won the Nationals Championship title in his weanling class at Congress the day before he became Kasey Waxler’s pony. Cross Country’s Mr. Banker and Kasey Waxler also have a bright future together.

Eperthener and Bagby, donators of these two American Shetland Ponies, have made a generous contribution to acknowledge youths in the small equine world. This spirit of giving seems to be an extension of another big gift from the American Shetland Pony Club earlier this year. The ASPC donated two ponies to the Hong Kong Equestrian Federation as a gesture of goodwill for hosting the 2008 Equestrian Olympics. “The Shetland ponies themselves are still the best ambassadors of the breed,” said ASPC Marketing Director, Johnny Robb, “We are fortunate to have so many generous members that help make our ponies available for these wonderful programs.”

For more information about the American Shetland Pony Club or other programs involving American Shetland Ponies, visit www.shetlandminiature.com.

Photos: (courtesy of Washburn Photography)

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Professional’s C h o i c e announces its new “Tough Enough to Wear Pink” (TETWP) pad as the newest means in the fight against breast cancer.

Professional’s Choice continues its support by donating a portion of sales from every pink pad they sell to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation.

With a striking pink Navajo top and TETWP decal this saddle pad not only makes a statement, but means needed funds for cancer research.

Professional’s Choice joined the western industry’s “Tough Enough to Wear Pink” campaign in the fall of 2005, and has continued ever since.

The new pad is a special edition designed especially to bring attention to the cause and increase funding in the quest to eradicate this insidious disease. Nearly everybody in the U.S. has been touched by the effects of it in one way or another as was Dal Scott, president and founder of Professional’s Choice, who had a dear friend fall victim to the disease and another one who managed to beat it. This is his way of helping to increase the odds in favor of the survivors.

T h e

September 08

less heat and cools off faster. A recent independent study by Kansas State University confirmed that the SMx Air Ride™ out-performed other pads for pressure distribution and moisture wicking properties. The SMx Air Ride™ is also lightweight and flexible and conforms to the horse’s back.

This pad is available in 34x36” and 30x30” sizes and comes with a very generous 60-day money back guarantee and a one year warrantee. It will be available in tack stores in October.

Professional’s Choice Supports Breast Cancer Research With the New “Tough Enough to Wear Pink” Saddle Pad! handsome new TETWP pad has a 100% wool Navajo top, 100% merino wool lining and the patented, incredibly durable SMx Air Ride™ saddle pad core. It has been scientifi-

cally proven to absorb shock and evenly distribute pressure across the horse’s back, increasing overall comfort for the horse. It is also highly breathable, allowing the free flow of air, resulting in accelerated heat dispersion and moisture evaporation. The horse feels

The more comfortable the horse, the better the performance.

To locate an authorized Professional’s Choice dealer near you, call 800-3319421 or visit their website at www.profchoice.com.

Professional’s Choice is a pioneer in producing products strictly with the well being of the horse in mind. As inventor and manufacturer of the original patented Sports Medicine Boot, the SMB Elite™ and the SMx Air Ride™ Saddle Pad, Professional’s Choice continually produces high quality products recognized by top trainers, professionals and everyday horseman alike.

Well-Horse Introduces Two New Products Well-Horse Launches the First Aid Kit in a Bottle How do you heal open wounds or unsightly skin conditions? Now you can expect wonders with Well Horse Antibacterial Resin and advanced healing formula. Well Horse stops infection immediately and forms a layer of protection to keep dirt out of wounds. In addition, it heals ugly skin conditions, such as burns, skin fungus, scratches, dew poisoning, rain rot, ring worm, girth itch, bit sores and cracked heals. Well Horse is the fastest working First Aid Kit in a Bottle with the easy to use dauber or spray.

Well Horse is an organic, 100% natural proprietary blend of specific tree resins from the Amazon Rain Forest, plus antioxidants, simple phenols, diterpenes, phytosterols and lignans.

(No trees are harmed in this process.) It is Non-toxic, contains no iodine and will not burn injured tissue and is safe for all animals.

Wounds and skin problems heal faster without killing the hair follicle while forming new collagen and regenerating tissue. What that means to your horse is that the hair grows back (with-

out telltale white hair re-growth). "Every owner knows the heartbreak of wounds healing improperly causing proud flesh, scars and unsightly white hairs," said Coco Fernandez, creator of Well Horse. "Now with Well Horse, wounds and skin problems heal themselves and get you back to the show ring quickly".

Whether you discover a gaping wound in your horses' stall, or find girth itch when you're away showing, Well Horse is you all-in-one "First Aid Kit in a Bottle". Samples, stories and locations to buy can be found at www.wellhorse.com .

Well-Horse • (419) 295-0474 • Well-Horse.com

Introducing Well-Horse Thrush Off, The Hoof Saver that Heals - The Only Safe Natural Hoof Product That Eliminates Thrush & Heals Inside the Hoof Are your stalls and working areas less than ideal for your horses feet? Eliminate any chance of nasty thrush bacteria while healing the inside of the hoof with Well Horse 'Thrush Off'. Relax, unlike other thrush killing products, Thrush Off is non-toxic, non-caustic and will not burn sensitive or live tissue. It heals the inside of the hoof naturally while it acts as an antibiotic. Use Thrush Off weekly to prevent infections such as thrush, absesses, quarter cracks, and white line disease. Thrush Off heals and will not burn the coronet band or an

open wound and quickly eliminates nasty black necrotic (dead) tissue around the frog, cleft and sulcus.

Application is easy with the handy bottle and brush. Once the black necrotic (dead) tissue has been removed and the inside of the hoof has been cleaned, you simply brush on Thrush Off to target and eliminate thrush and its' foul odor and regain healthy tissue growth.

Developed by Master Farrier, Coco Fernandez, Thrush Off is an organic, 100% natural proprietary blend of specific tree resins from the Amazon Rain Forest. (No trees are harmed in this process.) It is non-toxic, contains no iodine and will not burn injured tissue and is safe for all animals.

"Thrush Off shortens the recovery time dramatically when treating injuries and infections to the coronet band, cracked heels, thrush, absesses, quarter cracks and laminitis" said Fernandez, "it's the only hoof saver that also heals".

Samples, stories and locations to buy can be found at www.well-horse.com.

Well-Horse • (419) 295-0474 • Well-Horse.com

September 08 9/3/08 MN, Chatfield “Barrel, Futurity “United Barrel Racing Association - Gartner’s Arena UBRA Summer Series FINALS- 2 Opens, PW, Youth, 2D Futurity Sidepot, (507)259-8105 gart5@hotmail.com

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M idwest H orse D igest info@ubra.org

UPCOMING EVENTS

9/4/08 - WI,Balsam Lake, Barrel, Game Show United Barrel Racing Association - JJ Arena Fun Show Saddle Series & UBRA Barrel Race (715) 857-5505 - Julie@JJArena.com 9/5-9/7-MN, Fergus Falls, Red Horse Ranch, September Celebration MN Pinto Horse Assoc., 6 Judges. Stalling, Contact Karen Clark at 763-6825324, Show Manager, Kameron Duncanson 763355-9541 or Larry Bartells 320-248-8642” 9/5-9/7 SD, Rapid City Barrel Futurity“ 5 State Breeders Futurity” - (605) 431-9480 9/5-9/7 - KS, Topeka - Barrel Double B Productions Petrol Jeans Barrel Bash - (641) 743-8223 bolling@iowatelecom.net 9/5-9/7 - TX, Midland “Auction, Clinic, Concert, Dressage, Horse Expos & Fairs, Sales, Spectator Events , Other “ (432) 599-1569 chris_fitzgerald@hotmail.com 9/6/08 - MN, North Branch - Barrel 5th Annual Benefit - American Cancer Society - (651)2771095 9/6-9/7 - MN, North Branch - Barrel Houck Summer Barrel Racing Saddle Series FINALS & Annual Benefit! This will be a Power Barrels Event: www.powerbarrels.com - (651) 277-1095 houckhorsecompany@yahoo.com 9/6/08 - MN, Princeton - Barrel - United Barrel Racing Association - Round Up Riders Saddle Club Saddle Series - (320) 983-2679 roundupriderssc@yahoo.com 9/6/08 - MN, Loman - “Barrel, Game Show, Spectator Events , Trail Ride “-United Barrel Racing Association - Dancing Sky Ranch UBRA Summer Series - Added $$$ - (218) 285-3433 swright_s@hotmail.com 9/6-9/7 - NE, Fremont - Barrel - Purina Mills Saddle Series - (712) 545-9152 9/10-9/14 - WY, Gillette - “Barrel, Futurity “ Fizz Bomb Barrel Futurity - (307) 687-2017 9/11 - 9/14 - MO, Huntsville - Trail / Pleasure AQHA Rainer Trail Ride 2008 - “Great Fun, Great Food, Great Ride....Rainer Ranch is the place to be September 11-14, 2008 For more info visit http://www.missvalley.com/rainertrailride/index.htm” 9/10 - MN, Monticello “Barrel, Futurity “ United Barrel Racing Association - Arrowhead Arena Weds Night Summer Series - (763) 878-1554 arrowheadarena@aol.com 9/12/08 - MN, Cannon Falls - Barrel Tuff Enuf Slot Race $2375 PURSE 2D Half Second. 25 horses. $100 ef. $713 1st Place 1D!!! - (715) 857-6343 info@ubra.org 9/12/08 - MN, Sherburn - Barrel - Wisconsin Girls Barrel Racing Association - WI GIRLS BARREL RACING ASSOCIATION Open Barrel Race ~ OPEN TO ANYONE - (715) 237-2485 shellyolson@yahoo.com 9/13-9/14 - MN, Clearwater - Mounted Shooting Minnesota Mounted Shooters Association Clearwater Shoot - (763) 286-5393 cmsamn@hotmail.com 9/13/08 - MN, Cannon Falls - “Barrel, Spectator Events “, Other - Champions Choice Buckle Bikini Race @ 2008 Barrel Bonanza. $50 Cash Bonus

Best Bikini & Wildest Ride - (715) 857-6343 Lindsey.Georges@powermation.com 9/13-9/13 - IL, Woodstock - “Horse Expos & Fairs, Other “ - 2nd Annual Hooved Animal Humane Society (HAHS) Fun Horse Show & Picnic 10804 McConnell Road, Woodstock, IL 60098 *Fun Horse Show *Equestrian Drill Team *Vendors *Pony Rides *Wagon Rides *Tack Shop *Food & Drink (815) 337-5563 - hclark@hahs.org” 9/13-9/14 - EC:9/1/2008 - MN, Cannon Falls “Barrel, Futurity “ - “Northern Region Futurities, United Barrel Racing Association “ - $5,000 Added Barrel Bonanza. 4 Trophy Saddles! Average awards to 3rd place: Futurity, Derby, Open 4D & Youth! - (715) 857-6343 - Added Money: $5000 -

9/13-9/13 - WI, Mauston - Barrel “NBHA, WI 02, WI. NBHA “ - Red Cedar Ridge - (608) 847-2273

9/18/08 - WI, Balsam Lake - “Barrel, Game Show“ United Barrel Racing Association - JJ Arena Fun Show & UBRA Barrel Race (715) 857-5505 - Julie@JJArena.com 9/19-9/21 - MN, Fergus Falls - Barrel - Double B Productions - Petrol Jeans Barrel Bash - (641) 743-8223 - bolling@iowatelecom.net 9/19-9/21 - NE, Fremont - Clinic - Jimmie Munroe Barrel Racing Clinic 9/20/08 - MN, Loman - “Barrel, Game Show, Spectator Events , Trail Ride “ - United Barrel Racing Association - Dancing Sky Ranch UBRA Summer Series & BBQ - (218) 285-3433 swright_s@hotmail.com continued on page 29

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Equilite, Inc.TM Joins Chester Weber’s Team of Sponsors Ocala, FL- Equilite is pleased to sponsor six time National Combined Driving Champion Chester Weber. Currently campaigning this summer in Europe, Weber distinguished himself by winning the Time Shuttle prize in the CHIO Aachen and then going on to crush the competition in the prestigious G e r m a n Fahrderby (Driving Derby) in Riesenbeck.

Weber’s tour will culminate at the World Driving Championships in Beesd, Netherlands. An impressive “sponsor team” accompanied Weber on his successful tour in Europe, contributing to his horses performing in peak form for the major competitions they entered.

They are approaching the World Driving Championships in first-rate physical condition partly due to the fact that Weber is committed to using the finest products to care for his horses. One product that Team Weber has relied on regularly is Equilite’s Sore No More® Liniment. So the sponsorship endorsement between Weber and Equilite, Inc., makers

of Sore No More, was a natural progression.

Equilite’s Sore No More products have earned an outstanding reputation for soothing the aching muscles and legs of high performance sport horses. Along with the Sore No More product line, Equilite, Inc. makes a number of high quality botanical products including a cooling clay poultice, all-natural herbal supplements, fly sprays, shampoos, and topical treatments.

Because Equilite products contain no chemical or harsh abrasives there is little threat of allergic reactions so it is very safe to use. Weber is committed to all-natural herbal-based Sore No More liniment for relieving sore muscles and wrapping the horses’ legs at night. This liniment is also safe to use on horses with sensitive skin because of its proprietary herbal blend.

“We are excited to have Chester Weber as part of our Equilite’s Team,” said Stacey Small, President of Equilite. “Chester is not only committed to his own horses care and wellbeing, but also demonstrates a commitment to the welfare of the entire equestrian community and that is philosophy that we share at Equilite.”

Weber is an influential representative for his sponsors, bringing attention of their products to combined driving enthusiasts, professional whips and trainers. His team is treated to some of the finest care equine products can afford a horse.

Weber’s outstanding record, both in the United States and in Europe, make him uniquely qualified to encourage the use of Equilite Sore No More products for horsemen throughout the industry and the world.

Equilite products are available at most tack stores and equine catalogs throughout the U.S. or visit www.equilite.com online for more information.

September 08

New Bits from the Bob Avila Collection A Bit for Every Horse!

Professional’s Choice announces the expansion of the Bob Avila Signature Series line due to ever widening attention and demand.

Designed and tested by Bob Avila, “World’s Greatest Horseman” and holder of nearly 40 world titles and the only horseman to win the Magnificent 7 three times in a row, and produced by Professional’s Choice, the Bob Avila Collection has expanded to include over 35 styles of bits and spurs. Avila, a sought after professional trainer, developed the series over many years of working and training horses. His extensive hands-on experience and skills have enabled him to develop bits for multiple purposes including specialty bits for individual needs and bits that can help address a specific problem.

When first introduced, the Bob Avila Collection became instantly popular, not only due to the types of bits offered, but because the bits are extremely affordable allowing the horseman to train the horse through several bits if necessary. Because of the wide variety of horses and disciplines at various levels of their training, it was decided to add to this hugely successful bit line.

Newly added are two short shank medium port bits, two new snaffle bits, three hackamores and a new medium copper port bit with Bob’s signature shank.

“I am always looking for something new that will work on a specific horse and I really wanted to be sure we had something for everyone’’ says Avila. “Using the correct bit can move a horse along in its training at a faster rate with more sustainable results because you have a calmer more focused horse. The correct bit lets the horse work with you instead of against you.”

Bob Avila is involved in research, design and development for other Professional’s Choice signature products including their line of protective boots. “The quality is simply the best. They thoroughly test their products on both everyday and performance horses, so you know they are effective.

Professional’s Choice products have always been there for me and never let me down.”

The more comfortable the horse, the better the performance.

To locate an authorized Professional’s Choice dealer near you, call 800-331-9421 or visit their website at www.profchoice.com.

As inventor and manufacturer of the original patented Sports Medicine Boot, the SMB Elite™ and the SMx Air Ride™ Saddle Pad, Professional’s Choice continually produces high quality products recognized by top trainers, professionals and everyday horseman all over the world.

September 08

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Coming Events continued from page 29

10/5/08 - 9:00 - MN, Lindstrom - Horse Show OPEN FUN SHOW - (651) 257-4642

9/20-9/21 - NE, Fremont - Barrel - Purina Mills Saddle Series - (712) 545-9152

10/10-10/12 - CO, Loveland - “Barrel, Futurity “ Spin 3 A Mile Hi $5,000 Added Futurity $1,000 Added Derby - (720) 530-4159 MileHi@westernattitude.com

9/20/08 - MN, Brook Park - Roping - Team Roping /Breakaway Roping - Enter at 8:30 am, Rope at 9:00 am. Buckles awarded at EACH roping for 1st place winner of Ladies Breakaway Jackpot. A saddle will be presented to winner of Ladies Breakaway Series! - (763) 258-4815 9/20/08 - 9:00 - IL, Pleasant Hill -Horse Show MFQHA Open Show - Classes include ranch horse pleasure, cutting, ruanch cutting, reining, ranch reining, team sorting, ranch horse trail, barrels, & poles & conformation classes. Buckles to high pt. and reserve Sr, Jr, cattle, & youth. (217) 491-0833 9/21-9/21 - WI, Beaver Dam - Barrel - NBHA, WI 02, Wisconsin NBHA “ Boots & Saddle Club Arena - (920) 382-3560 9/26-9/28 - IA, Waterloo - Barrel - Double B Productions - Petrol Jeans Barrel Bash - (641) 7438223 - bolling@iowatelecom.net 9/26-9/28 - MN, Henderson - “Barrel, Clinic “ Kelly Kaminski Barrel Racing Clinic - (952) 4485657 - linda@sixafire.com 9/26-9/27 - TX, Guthrie - “Auction, Horse Sale & Auction “ - 2008 Return to the Remuda Sale Saturday, 9/27. Preview ~ Friday, 9/26. Hosted by: Pitchfork Land & Cattle Company. Quality Prospects from the historical ranches of 6666 Ranch, Beggs Ranch, Pitchfork Ranch and Tongue River Ranch. - (806) 596-4424 9/26-9/28 - NE, Wahoo - Clinic - Walt Woodward Team Roping Clinic for both headers and heelers 712-545-9152 9/27 - 9/28 - MN, Jordan - JP BELL CUTTING CLINIC at 2 BIT QUARTER HORSES contact Dianne at 952-492-6166 www.2bitquarterhorses.com limited to the first 15 riders - Spectors welcome free of charge.

9/27/08 - MN, Litchfield - Barrel - Cowgirl Tuff Co. 1st Annual Barrel Race - (320) 693-2339 accounts@cowgirltuffco.com 9/27/08 - MN, North Branch - Fun Show - (651) 277-1095 - houckhorsecompany@yahoo.com 9/27/08 - 9:45 - WI, Balsam Lake -“Barrel, Game Show “ - United Barrel Racing Association - JJ Arena Fun Show & UBRA Barrel Race - Always the last Saturday of the month! - (715) 857-5505 Julie@JJArena.com 9/28/08 - MN, Lindstrom - Barrel United Barrel Racing Association - $500 Added-Jackpot Barrels/Pole Bending at Oasis. Check www.betterbarrelraces.com for BBR approved dates. - (612) 205-2256 oasisequine@frontiernet.net 10/2/08 - WI, Balsam Lake - “Barrel, Game Show “ United Barrel Racing Association - JJ Arena Fun Show & UBRA Barrel Race - (715) 857-5505 Julie@JJArena.com 10/3-10/5 - SD, Huron - “Barrel, Futurity “ “Northern Region Futurities, United Barrel Racing Association “ - 10th Annual Bold Heart Futurity, Derby, Breeder’s & Open Barrel Race - (605) 5435797 - Added Money: $15000 info@boldheartinc.com 10/4-10/5 - NE, Fremont - Barrel - Purina Mills Saddle Series - (712) 545-9152

10/10-10/12 - MN, Verndale - “Barrel, Sales, Spectator Events” - United Barrel Racing Assoc.

UBRA World Finale $5,000 Added Min. Open, Futurity & Youth Weekend Awards. - (715) 8576343 - Added Money: $5000 - info@ubra.org” 10/10-10/12 - NE, Lincoln - Barrel Double B Productions - Petrol Jeans Barrel Bash - (641) 7438223 - bolling@iowatelecom.net 10/11-10/12 - MN, Verndale - “Barrel, Futurity, Sales, Spectator Events “ - “Northern Region Futurities, United Barrel Racing Association “ “”” JJ Classic Futurity and Derby w/ Breeder’s Incentive. $2,000 Added Futurity $1,000 Added Derby + $7,000+ JJBI - (715) 857-6343 - Added Money: $3000 - info@ubra.org” 10/16/08 - WI, Balsam Lake - “Barrel, Game Show United Barrel Racing Association - JJ Arena Fun Show & UBRA Barrel Race - (715) 857-5505 Julie@JJArena.com 10/17-10/19 - MN, Fergus Falls - “Barrel, Futurity “ $8000 Total added money PLUS MCA Incentive Money for eligible futurity horses.(701) 541-3930 jess@mnlakes2008.com 10/18/08 - MN, Lindstrom - Barrel - United Barrel Racing Association -” THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELLED! - (612) 205-2256 oasisequine@frontiernet.net 10/18-10/19 - NE, Fremont - Barrel - Purina Mills Saddle Series - (712) 545-9152 10/18/08 - MN, Brook Park - Roping, Team Roping /Breakaway Roping - Enter at 8:30 am, Rope at 9:00 am. Buckles will be awarded at EACH roping for the 1st place winner of the Ladies Breakaway Jackpot. A saddle will be presented to the winner of the Ladies Breakaway Series! - (763) 258-4815 10/21 - MN, Stillwater - Friesians/Crossbreds Inspection - Contact: Sandra Adams, 651-491-5378 10/24-10/26 - MN, Sherburn - Barrel Double B Productions - Petrol Jeans Barrel Bash - (641) 7438223 - bolling@iowatelecom.net 10/25-10/26 - SD, Platte - “Barrel, Futurity “ “Northern Region Futurities, United Barrel Racing Association “ - Heartland Futurity & Derby $500 Added Futurity $500 Added Derby - (605) 796-4618 - amdahl@santel.net 10/25/08 - 9:45 - WI, Balsam Lake - “Barrel, Game Show “ - United Barrel Racing Association JJ Arena Fun Show & UBRA Barrel Race - Always the last Saturday of the month! - (715) 857-5505 Julie@JJArena.com 10/31-11/2 - MO, Carthage - Barrel - Double B Productions - Petrol Jeans Barrel Bash - (641) 7438223 - bolling@iowatelecom.net 10/31-11/2 - MN, Fergus Falls - “Barrel, Futurity, Sales, Spectator Events” - “Northern Region Futurities, United Barrel Racing Association “ “” 2008 NRF Tour Finals. Open to ALL NRF TOUR HORSES. $$$$ & AWARDS - (715) 857-6343 Added Money: $2500 - info@ubra.org 10/31-11/2 - MN, Fergus Falls - “Barrel, Futurity “ United Barrel Racing Association - UBRA Tour ADDED $$$ & CLEAN SLATE WEEKEND AWARDS. Open 4Ds, Youth, 2D Futurity, PeeWee (715) 857-6343 - info@ubra.org”

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Andersen Named Director of the Unwanted Horse Coalition The American Horse Council is pleased to announce the arrival of Julia Andersen, who will serve as the Director of the Unwanted Horse Coalition.

Andersen came to the UHC with a versatile background in communications and life-long passion for horses. While receiving undergraduate degrees in Rhetoric/Communications and Fine Arts from Mount St. Mary’s University, Andersen also founded the school’s Equestrian team and club. She went on to earn her master’s degree in Journalism from Emerson College. Andersen gained strong experience in writing, creativity and deadline management throughout her professional career in the television industry, while working in program development for the Discovery Channel and as an Associate Producer for Court TV. Most recently, Andersen worked for Maryland Life Magazine as an Account Executive.

Jay Hickey, President of the American Horse Council, said, “We are happy to have Julia join the team. She brings great enthusiasm, and an understanding of the horse industry.”

“I have always found my energy in horses. Working for the Unwanted Horse Coalition on the problem of the unwanted horse is the perfect opportunity for me. I am truly lucky to find a career where I can combine my experience in communications and my knowledge of the horse industry,” said Andersen.

As the national association representing all segments of the horse industry in Washington, D.C., the American Horse Council works daily to represent equine interests and opportunities. Organized in 1969, the AHC promotes and protects the industry by communicating with Congress, federal agencies, the media and the industry on behalf of all horse related interests each and every day.

The AHC is member supported by individuals and organizations representing virtually every facet of the horse world from owners, breeders, veterinarians, farriers, breed registries and horsemen's associations to horse shows, race tracks, rodeos, commercial suppliers and state horse councils.

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September 08

Classical Training for the Gaited Horse

by Larry Whitesell, trainer

As I travel around the country, what I see in the gaited horse world are people trying to make horses gait before they teach them to be a “broke” horse. Most of the gaited horses that attend our clinics have problems that result from no foundation training.

Many gaited riders want the horse to have an almost vertical neck to achieve gait.

T h e y attempt to obtain this carriage by driving the horse forcefully into the hand or using equipment to hold the position, thus risking a false frame. The horse must systematically learn how to adjust his feet and use his body in new ways, changing his understanding of balance.

He must also develop the muscles needed for collection.

Sometimes when you ride a gaited horse that becomes alarmed or when you turn back to the barn, the horse gaits very well. If he gaits better in situations like this than he normally does, it is because he is motivated to go and therefore has better engagement of the hind legs. Since he is doing this without being cued, he is more or less running away. Many riders try to get their horses to gait by artificially reproducing this type of engagement. They use leg to push the horse into a bridle or piece of equipment that is intimidating enough that the horse can’t run off. When a horse is taught to gait this way, an insecure rider has problems getting the horse to gait because they fear loosing control. Restraining the head in any way creates stiffness. Stiffness destroys rhythm and gait is rhythm.

Optimally, we want to teach the horse to engage the hind legs when we cue with our legs and still remain soft in our hands. If we educate the horse correctly, he can gait with his head up or down. Head and neck position has little to do with gait. Collection is not headset but engagement.

Pulling on the face for gait forces the horse into a false frame; with the neck up but the back dropped and the hind legs working behind the balance. Most gaited horses can gait this way, but the horse creates defenses.

Problems such as pacing, rushing the bridle, herd sour, and the list goes on. Riders come

to clinics wanting to fix each problem. What we need to do is cure the disease and not just fix the symptoms. The real problem is horse’s body is full of tension and braces, because he does not understand the bridle, or the rider does not know how to use it. By suppling and strengthening the horse, we can remove tension and stiffness.

Relaxation allows the horse to become more flexible in his joints and muscles. When we get the horse more soft and supple he can obtain deeper engagement, needed to help a gaited horse gait. This engaged frame, with the back raised, allows the horse to transfer his center of gravity from the forehand to the area beneath the rider and ultimately obtain self-carriage. When we have educated the horse classically, removing all tension and braces throughout his body, the energy traveling from the haunches can flow forward. The horse then finds forward impulsion less of an effort. This controlled forward impulsion is what generates gait.

It is easy to educate a horse to the bridle because he only wants to know one thing; “what do I need to do to keep your hands out of my mouth.”

When he learns that how he responds with his feet is the answer he will do what you want very generously. If you are pulling on the reins as you are saying whoa, he has no chance. I see riders pull the head to the right to get the horse to turn. If he doesn’t turn they pull more. When you pull the head around the horse is out of balance and it is hard for the feet to take the body to the right. Pulling builds braces in the horse. My horse needs to know if I touch the bridle I am talking to his feet and not his face.

The head and neck are a huge part of the horse’s balance system. When we force the neck up before teaching the horse to redistribute his weight, we jeopardize the balance of

our horse. Developing the muscles to redistribute the weight is part of it. There is no way a three year old horse can have the muscles to carry a rider in a collected frame. A horse constantly pulled out of balance by the bridle becomes anxious or worried; and a worried horse is not safe to ride. You can count on a correctly schooled horse to give you the same response every time, in all situations.

Horses constantly pulled out of balance will have a harder time finding gait because it destroys the rhythm of the feet. It is easier for a trotting horse to maintain trot while being pulled on, but a four beat gait is a more fragile gait. You see trotting horses that are uncomfortable in the bride, jig at the walk. This is evidence that it is easier to deteriorate their four beat gait than their trot.

The bridle is a preparatory cue, it is not what turns or stops the horse. Touching the reins should tell the horse get ready to turn. Most riders just pull to turn, which surprises the horse. You should do no more than close your fingers to let him know you are turning. He turns because he follows your seat and shoulders. If you lean you are trying to turn the front end of the horse. Its like your car, you turn the front wheels right but the car won’t turn until you step on the accelerator so the back wheels push the front wheels around. If you lean and pull on the face the horse doesn’t turn well.

Just close your right hand turn your shoulders and the horse turns his, then ride forward so the hind legs drive the front feet through the turn. By closing the fingers on your right hand to signal the horse, he will gather himself into a frame to turn right. By pulling on the reins to turn you surprise him and he turns out of balance, because he doesn’t prepare himself. If riders drove cars as inconsiderately as they ride their horses their insurance companies would drop them, but there is no one looking out for the welfares of the horses. Most riders wait until they are at the spot where they want to stop to say whoa as they pull on the mouth.

The horse has no chance to reposition his weight and feet so he can stop. He is surprised to know you were stopping. It takes several strides to stop. Not only does he have to prepare his frame to stop but there is a thing called inertia. It is not fair to expect a thousand pound animal to stop in one or two strides.

You don’t wait until you are at the stop sign to start breaking. The faster you are going the more time you allow to stop. continued on page 38

September 08

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Horse Fall Production and Futurity Sales September 12, 2008 Dakota Classic Cutting Futurity Horse Sale Selling Yearlings and 2 year olds eligible for the DCCF Futurity Held in Conjunction with the Dakota Classic Cutting Futurity, 3:00pm CentralTime Held: SD State Fair Grounds, Huron, South Dakota. Request a catalogue for information: Jenny 605-222-7491 September 13 Double R Quarter Horse Ranch Sale, 1 pm, At the Ranch, Washburn, ND, www.doublerquarterhorses.com September 13, John Finarty Quarter Horse Production Sale, Clarke County Fairgrounds in Osceola, IA., 1:00 pm, .641-862-4436 September 13 Open Box Rafter Ranch Annual Production Sale, Central States Fairgrounds, Rapid City, SD, 605-538-4450 September 13, 2008 WYO Quarter Horse Sale, Hot Springs County Fairgrounds, in Thermopolis, Wyoming. 12 pm.

WYO Quarter HorseRanch, PO Box 642, Thermopolis, WY82443, 307-864-5671, PHONE NUMBER FOR SALE DAY: 307-272-0593, email: wyoqhr@directairnet.com September 14

Visit us online at www.horsedigests.com for even more info, photo classifieds, community events, training videos and more coming all the time.....

We have many opportunities for you to promote your equine related business.

For more information call Mark or Peg at 507-943-3355 or email: mark@horsedigests.com peg@horsedigests.com

Wyoming Blanton Production & Performance Horse Sale, Pine Bluffs, WY, 307-245-3609

Central Nebraska Ranch & Production Horse Sale, Broken Bow, NE, 308.872.2243 www.centralnebraskahorsesale.com

September 19 Balkenbush Sunshine Ranch Final Production Sale, Bush Arena, Conrad, MT, 406-278-3569

September 27 Performance Quarter Horses Breeders of SD 4th Annual Sale, Futurity 10 am, Pre-view 4 pm, Sale 5 pm, Yellow Rose Arena, Platte, SD, www.pqhbsd.com

September 19 WD Ranch Production Sale W/D Ranch 6940 N. Montana Ave Helena, Montana, (406) 458-8706 September 20 Weaver Quarter Horses 13th Annual Production Sale, Great Falls, MT, www.weaverhorses.com September 20 Roan Rose Ranch Production and Ranch Horse Sale, Willard, MO., www.roanrose.com 417-742-3469 September 20 MA Quarter Horses Production and Herd Reduction Sale, www.mahorses.com, 940-742-4444 September 20 12th Annual Van Norman and freinds Production Sale, Elko, Nevada, 775-756-6508 mrsbunch@rtci.net, Catalog on line at: www.vannormansale.com September 21

September 28 North Country Quarter Horses and Sun Prairie Horses. www.sphorses.com sphorses@cooper.net 406-964-1015 October 18 4th Annual Production and Invitation Sale, River Bluff Ranch, Walnut Grove, Missouri. 417-3768003, www.riverbluffranch.net October 26 North Country Breeders Draft Horse Sale Keystone Agricultural Centre , Brandon, M, Manitoba, Canada, 12:00 pm Blaine Peel, 204-567-3720 peecos@mts.net Lyle Brown, 204-838-2042 brownspercherons@mts.net Jim Lane, 204-842-3658, loneoak@inetlink.ca Wade Joorisity, 306-736-2769 we.joorisity@sasketel.net WWW.ROSSTAYLORAUCTIONS.COM

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M idwest H orse D igest

September 08

The Importance of Leg Control

by Monty Bruce

Leg control; is this a necessity in training our horse or just an extra button? Do we need it?

I believe, in getting our horse broke and trained, it is a very important part of the training process to be able to communicate with our horse.

Without body control through the use of our legs, all we have is forward motion and no lateral movement. With the use of our reins we can direct and turn our horse and they learn to follow the nose, but without leg control we cannot ask them to side-pass, flex and bend their body to get them soft and flexible. Then when advancing the horse, we cannot teach and ask maneuvers of them such as our turn around or spin, lope departures, picking up the correct lead and changing leads without being able to yield to our leg pressure.

So how do we teach our horse to yield to leg pressure or advance there responsiveness and control?

It will be like everything else, we want to start out very simple and slow, step by step, and build. Give the horse time to learn and build confidence.

Time----Consistency-----Repetition are the main aspects of training!

I always want to make it as simple and easy as possible for the horse. Set him up to succeed.

The first thing we want to teach our horse is simply to side pass, move the body laterally or sideways. To make this simple we want to block their forward motion by riding them up to a fence or a wall. This allows the horse fewer opportunities to make a mistake, they now can only go left, right, or backwards. The odds are in their favor that they will take that lateral step. I want to keep it really simple and keep it clear in his mind what to do. I will work on teaching him to yield in one direction and get him confident and consistent before I switch to the other direction to avoid any confusion to my horse when I am first introducing this maneuver. I want to have my horse side pass to the right. When I have my horse facing the wall or fence, I apply leg pressure to the left side of my horse, and I really lift my right leg off the horse. Showing the horse, there’s the open door (the right side) and by giving a gentle push through it (on the left side). Then I shift me weight (NOT LEAN) to the left side to take all the weight off the right side and making it easier for the horse to pick up his right legs and step over.

Then I apply pressure with my left leg on the horses side and push it to get him over (push him out the door).

If my horse has never done this maneuver before when we ask him to do this, it may take him a bit to figure this out. He may push into my leg, he may back up but I keep applying pressure and being persistent and sooner or later he will take a step in the right direction. As soon as he does I release the pressure (the left leg) to keep our horses responsive and sharp to leg pressure. I always wear spurs, but I don’t always use them.

When applying pressure with my leg I always use the calf of my leg. Always ask or cue the horse with the least amount of pressure to give him the chance to respond before we step up the pressure. If the horse doesn’t move off the use of my calf then I will slowly press my spur into his side. If I get the movement, even if it’s the wrong direction or backwards I DO NOT step up the pressure, I only remain consistent with the pressure until the horse moves in the direction that I am asking, and then I will release the pressure. As long as I’m getting movement, I know they are trying, and if they are trying I can eventually direct the movement in the direction that I want.

If I still am not getting any results or movement I need to step up the pressure. I do not like to kick on my horse with a spur.

I believe a negative result happens by doing this. If you kick, the horse tightens up and cringes at the spur jab. So instead, I press harder or roll the spur up the side of the horse’s belly. This action tickles the horse’s rib cage and causes them to really get off and respect the leg without the fear of the kick or poke.

I want to be very aware of my timing in the release of my leg pressure, as soon as they take a stop off my leg and yield I take my leg and spur off to reward them for the movement over and to make it even moor clear in their mind that they did the right thing I will pause for a moment (let them stand) and pet them. If they don’t get the instant release of pressure when they yield, what reward to they have or reason do they have to keep trying for you.

Again, Timing and consistency are two of the three most important rules in training and for building confidence, and developing try in our horses.

Until next time, Good luck and God bless, Monty Bruce.

If you have any questions or would like more information, log onto Monty’s web-site at www.montybruce.com

September 08

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September 08

M idwest H orse D igest

.

....There IS a Difference.

Tracking Registry

This article is written by Martie Jacobson, member of the National Walking Horse Association (NWHA) and licensed NWHA judge. The beliefs and opinions expressed herein are her own, based on Ms. Jacobson’s experience in riding, driving, breeding, training and showing Walking Horses, Shetland Ponies and Peruvian Horses and are not necessarily the official position of the NWHA.

No Registration Required.

Did you know that the National Walking Horse Association (NWHA) does not require proof of registration for your horse to compete in the show ring or to participate in any other NWHA affiliated activities? Did you know that the NWHA has a Tracking Registry?

This registry offers many benefits to its members, reflects positively on members’ breeding programs and successfully impacts the NWHA membership’s sales of naturally gaited Walking Horses.

The National Walking Horse Association was created in 1998 by a group of people who had been involved with an industry which was home to some folks who used inhumane methods of training and showing the Tennessee Walking Horse. Some of the NWHA founders will admit to having been right there in the trenches, involved with, or having had knowledge of the practice of soring.

Soring is the inhumane practice of intentionally making a Tennessee Walking Horse’s front feet or lower legs so sore that he will lift his pain-filled front legs unnaturally high and unnaturally fast, thereby creating an exaggerated gait. After watching these horses perform this horrific so-called gait, it is my opinion that this gait places extreme stress on the horse’s feet, body, mind and spirit. Soring can be accomplished with caustic chemicals or with foreign objects placed between the shoes/pads and the sensitive hoof sole or by foundering, and any number of other creative but illegal methods.

The Horse Protection Act (HPA) was written to put a stop to these inhumane practices and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) was charged with enforcing the HPA. However, due to lack of funds, the USDA was, and continues to be, very limited in its ability to completely enforce this HPA. So the practice of soring in some shows not affiliated with NWHA continues, despite the adamant denials of folks still involved with the practice.

What, if anything, does all of the above have to do with why the National Walking Horse Association doesn’t require proof of registration? Everything! The founders of NWHA felt that its members should not be forced to register a horse just to partic-

ipate in NWHA affiliated events. NWHA was created to provide a fair and honest playing field where sound, (not sored,) naturally gaited Walking Horses could show, so it made no sense to require proof of registration from any other organizations who might allow the exaggerated, artificially created gait. The NWHA proudly adheres to a strict, “Zero Tolerance” policy, and after ten years of growth, the NWHA proudly maintains this practice which, by the way, exceeds the inspection requirements of the USDA and the HPA. Zero Tolerance means no horse which has scars or hair loss indicative of soring will be allowed into the show ring. Zero Tolerance also means that no horse will be allowed on the show grounds with plastic wrap covered legs or in the show ring with foreign substances on the legs, wearing chains or exhibiting sensitivity to palpation or hoof testing.

In 2003 the NWHA Board of Directors began to explore the idea of a registry to track the performance of sound, humanely trained Walking Horses competing against other sound, humanely trained Walking Horses. Breeders wanted to know which naturally gaited horses’ bloodlines crossed with other naturally gaited horses’ bloodlines might be more likely to produce a horse which does a true flat walk and running walk rather than a pace or stepping pace and also, which lines, when crossed, would most likely produce a quiet mannered trail horse.

There are many Tennessee Walking Horses with blue blood pedigrees who can’t perform the correct gaits, yet there are many, wonderful Walking Horses out there, without papers who are quite literally, walking machines. That is why the NWHA membership created the National Walking Horse Association Tracking Registry (NWHATR,) … to track the performance of sound horses, and in 2004, it became a reality by a vote of the NWHA membership.

The NWHA members also decided that if a horse could perform the correct gaits, registered or not, the horse was welcome to participate in all NWHA shows and events. After all, pedigree does not a Walking Horse make, or in other words, pretty is as pretty does.

This unique registry and search database is designed to be a helpful tool for buyers and sellers because once in the NWHA Tracking Registry, the performance of the horse is tracked as it participates in competitive events, endurance or trail rides. This Tracking Registry provides a documented record of the horse’s performance which can be used as a breeding tool, a selling feature, or just a walk down memory lane. The NWHATR is not a complete database of all Walking Horses, or other gaited horses and their pedigree information, but for buyers seeking naturally gaited horses for show, gaming, jumping,

dressage trail riding, field trials or endurance riding (the list goes on,) this tracking and performance information is invaluable because that buyer can be reasonably assured that no artificial techniques were used in the training or showing of these horses. In other words, these horses are naturally gaited horses producing foals performing the correct gaits from birth.

The horse’s NWHATR registration number appears with its name and any NWHA championship titles are represented in red (NC-National Champion; NGC-National Grand Champion.)

There are two means by which a Walking Horse may be registered with the NWHATR: Owners who can furnish lineage information, both sire and dam, for their horse may submit an application for registration into the NWHATR; or the horse may become registered through the Gait and Conformation process. That application process may be found by visiting www.nwha.com and clicking on “Tracking Registry.”

After reading about the Tracking Registry information, please take time to explore the entire NWHA website. It provides information on current events such as trail rides, training clinics, shows and many other programs including a great youth program.

There is also a complete listing of trainers and breeders of naturally gaited Walking Horses.

The National Walking Horse Association’s National Championship Show will be held September 30 – October 4, 2008 at the Miller Coliseum in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. This year’s show promises to be bigger than ever, showcasing all naturally gaited, naturally moving, happy horses doing what they do best.

Come join us … you’ll be glad you did!

The National Walking Horse Association ….

It’s about the horse!

If you would like to discuss this article please contact Martie Jacobson at mlj@2z.net. For general information on the naturally gaited Walking Horse or to become a member of the National Walking Horse Association please contact our executive director at execdir@nwha.com or 859-252-NWHA (6942) or visit us at NWHA.com.

To advertsie in Midwest

Horse Digest

Call Mark or Peg at 507-943-3355

September 08

For Sale 08 Zippo Pine Bar X Rugged Lark $900.00 Bay colt with a star & snip.Incentive Fund Eligable. Very correct conformation and a disposition that one can’t beat.

715-893-2301 lkoivisto@centurytel.net Sport Horse Prospect! Price:$7,500.00 General Xenophon has fantastic movement, well bred, & willing to please.

He will be perfect as a top show competator 586-784-4368 us@serenitystables.com.

Zinnia BA Andalusian Mare (Despierto x Zinnia) US Reserve National Champion Andalusian Mare. Price :$20,000.00 Zinnia BA is a 16.1 hand bay Spanish/Portuguese mare.

262-249-8870 selwoodp@idcnet.com Wonderful Brood Mare, and lightly Undersaddle.Price: $5,000.00 Grey Lady is a wonderful Broodmare, she is registered American Saddlebred 586.784.4368 us@serenitystables.com

1/2 Andalusian Sport Horse Candidate Price:$8,200.00 Posh is 1/2 Andalusian 1/4 Arabian 1/4 Saddlebred Gelding. He is registered with IALHA. Sire Elegido C 5867844368 us@serenitystables.com

M idwest H orse D igest

For Sale CAZAR Bay PRE Andalusian 16.1 by Indiano XVIII Cazar is Benitez /Guardiola. Very sweet, Champion Halter & Preformance.Stud fee's $2,000 andalusian $1,000 other 360 273 6849 RLP25@juno.com CAZAR Bay PRE Andalusian 16.1 by Indiano XVIII Cazar is Benitez /Guardiola. Very sweet, Champion Halter & Preformance.Stud fee's $2,000 andalusian $1,000 other 360 273 6849 RLP25@juno.com

Services and Products Professional Graphic Design and Website Design - Ad design, website design, custome logos, brochures, newsletters, postcards..

507-943-3355 rosebudpro@bevcomm.net Equine Appraisals, Horse Show Judge, Rehabilitation Therapist Quail Ridge Equine Unlimited Lynette Schneider P.O. Box 24367 Belleville, IL 62223 Phone: 618-979-3192 QREquineUnltd@aol.com

Photo Classifieds - $20.00 Call 507-943-3355 to place your photo classified or go online, place you classfied and get one month in print FREE!

Page 37

Midwest Horse Digests has a Sister Website We invite you to view our flipbook magazine online. Every issue is archived online and you can veiw it in a flip through magazine format.

Just go to www.horsedigests.com and click on digests.

You will find more photo classifieds for Horses for Sale, Stallions, Equine Products and Services and many other categories. Traffic is growing every day so be sure to place your classified there today.

Have an event, put it online in our event section!

Horsedigests.com is NOW adding more articles online and training video too!

You will want to bookmark our site so you can go back regularly to read more articles and we will soon be offering training videos right online.

Right now you will find articles from Lynn Palm and Craig Cameron!

We are excited to be able to bring this service to the equine community and hope you enjoy the website along with each and every issue of the magazine, whether you view it online or in print.

If you are an association you will want to check out our Breed Assoication Afflilation Program. Just register your assoiciation, it’s free, promote it to your members to use www.horsedigests.com for their advertising needs and make money for your association. For details click on Affiliate Program and see how you can earn cash for your association.

Many new things are coming and we are excited to be able to bring you a multi-faceted marketing program were you can utilize both print and online opportunities to let people know about your equine business.

Page 38

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Larry Whitesel...continued from page 32 The number one problem gaited horses have is that riders spend most of their time working on their horse instead of their riding.

Horses that have the genetics to gait would gait if the rider would ride and not interfere so much. Most gaited horses will gait if they are balanced and ridden forward. If we pull on them, lean in turns, sit unbalanced, the horse spends all his time rebalancing. For example if you say whoa and pull back, if your elbows come back your pelvis goes forward. What would make the horse know you are stopping when your pelvis is pushing forward? A horse is a four legged animal and cannot smoothly turn without forward riding. If your hand comes toward your pocket and your shoulders lean off to one side you cannot be riding forward in the turn. When working on circles and reverses spend more time working on YOUR riding, and your horse will get better at turning. Riders that attend our clinics are surprised at how well their horses turn and guide when they change themselves. It is easier to buy new equipment or bits than it is to become a rider, but I owe it to my horse to be a better rider. Being a good rider doesn’t mean you

can stay on, it means you can get the most from your horse with the least interference, your equipment, your seat, your hands, your legs. There are no braces in your horse or you.

With all the training information available, we all agree that whatever I teach my horse on the right side, I have to teach the left.

Yet we believe we can teach collection by holding b o t h reins and driving with b o t h legs.

T h a t would be teaching b o t h sides at once. Collection like everything else has to be taught one side at a time. You would teach turns on the forehand and turn on the haunches. Right leg back would ask the horse’s right hind leg to step under in a turn on the forehand and vice versa. When the horse gets good at that you could ask for a shoulder-

September 08

in. Right shoulder-in teaches the horse to take the left hind leg and step under to the bridle.

Teach it at walk, then slow gait, then normal speed. If we ask a horse for speed in his early training we will loose the relaxation, necessary for true collection. His feet will move quicker than his brain and muscles can keep up, he will become tense. He will brace or get stiff in his back blocking the flow of energy from the hind legs. The back has to stay soft and relaxed to allow the hind legs to come under.

To ask a three year old horse to be collected or quick would do damage to the horse mentally and physically.

It is very common in the gaited horse world to see riders hold their lower leg off the horse or ride with their feet way forward. It is the lower leg that takes the horses hind legs to the bridle. If the rider holds his leg off and gigs the horse to drive him, then the horse becomes reactive to the leg instead of collecting. If the lower leg is held off, this tightens the muscles of the inner thigh of the rider. If you use these muscles it would encourage the back to drop, just as squeezing the seat muscles would cause the horse to hollow. If you are putting the lower leg on you are encouraging the horse to lift his belly, which would raise his back, bringing the hind legs forward. If your feet are not under you in a correct riding position, your legs cannot talk to the horses hind legs. By sitting on your pockets with your feet in front of you, your pelvis cannot move with the horse, restricting his movement and flow of energy. Anything that restricts forward impulsion is going to make it tougher for a gaited horse to gait.

Sometimes we use strong equipment on our gaited horses before they are ready. This creates confusion in the horse and destroys his confidence. This translates to mental stress, which usually converts to physical braces and stiffness. A horse that is trained through a correct system will have a gait that is fluid and rhythmic. The horse will neither rush forward nor lag behind.

Because of genetics, some horses will gait easier or sooner than others. Breeders have a responsibility to protect the integrity of the breed. When breeding gaited horses keep the gait, disposition, and breed standard in mind and don’t be sidetracked by the latest fad in the show ring. If you do have a horse that is difficult to get to gait, just take the time to do it right. Get help, but beware of those who want to fix your horse mechanically. You will just trade one problem for two. When looking for help remember all horsemen are trainers but not all trainers are horsemen. I would like to see horses that have been trained by the person I will learn from. Are they trained like I want my horse to be? Are they light and balanced and relaxed? What is the horse’s disposition during and after work?

To ride a gaited horse that is well schooled and moves with impulsion matched with lightness has great satisfaction.

Larry Whitesell 7380 Old Mill Rd Baxter, TN 38544 931-858-0658 www.whitesellgaitedhorsemanship.com

PRODUCTS

M idwest H orse D igest HORSE SUPPLIES

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SADDLES AND TACK

Conchos - Horse Hair Tassels - Bling for Shows Parades and Everyday Riding. 503-630-3744 Info@NaturesBalanceCare.com Quicksilver Designer Beaded cable show halters XS mini - Large Horse sizes. www.picturetrail.com/qsmom 417 548 0055 email sskyla@hotmail.com

FOR SALE 08 Zippo Pine Bar X Rugged Lark, $900.00 Bay colt with a star & snip.Incentive Fund Eligable. Very correct conformation and a disposition that one cant beat. Saxon, WI 54559- 715-893-2301, lkoivisto@centurytel.net Stunning Pinto Miniature Gelding, $2,000.00. 6yr old, Pinto (Chocolate(black) and White) even color. He is currently being started in the cart, 586-784-4368 us@serenitystables.com Sport Horse Prospect! $7,500.00.

General Xenophon has fantastic movement, well bred, & willing to please. He will be perfect as a top show competator. 586-784-4368 us@serenitystables.com.

Zinnia BA Andalusian Mare (Despierto x Zinnia) Zinnia BA is a 16.1 hand bay Spanish/Portuguese mare. She is the 2004 US National Champion S/P Jr. Mare and US National Champion Western and Hunt Seat Jr. Horse.

262-249-8870 selwoodp@idcnet.com CC EVER DREAMIN , 99.6% Arabian, Rare Black&White Pintabian Mare. Dreamer is a rare black & white Pintabian mare who has great ENDURANCE/SPORT HORSE potential.

701-859-3221, lbrubaker@dia.net

TRAINERS

Flashy, Friesian/Thoroughbred Mare by Nero - Started Riding & Driving! Nala Rox: born 9/24/02 Friesian/Thoroughbred Mare sired by Nero. Solid Black - no white.320-272-4099, legendwoods@msn.com Friesian/Paint Gelding by Novi - Started Riding & Driving - GREAT Temperament!

Legend Woods Tovi: born 8/30/04 Friesian/Paint Gelding. Solid Bay. 320-2724099, legendwoods@msn.com Wonderful Brood Mare, and lightly Undersaddle.Grey Lady is a wonderful Broodmare, she is registered American Saddlebred, who is started lightly undersaddle, walk/trot/canter, with quick solid whoas.

586-784-4368, us@serenitystables.com 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 - 586-784-4368, us@serenitystables.com ASB Color of Fame dtr. Serafame is a chestnut daughter of the Color of Fame. Dam is a Skywatch dtr. Open can sell with a breeding to a Hot August Nite grandson or a Barbary+++ son. 320.679.4765 norsk4765@yahoo.com Continued on next page......

Advertise in the Traders Corner for as little as 17.00 per month call 507-943-3355

INSURANCE

WEB AND AD DESIGN

TRADERS CORNER

September 08 Classifieds

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M idwest H orse D igest

September 08

REAL ESTATE

classifieds continued...

STALLIONS CAZAR Bay PRE Andalusian 16.1 by Indiano XVIII. Cazar is Benitez/Guardiola breeding , has many foals of all colors. Very sweet, Champion Halter & Preformance. Stud fee's $2,000 andalusian $1,000 other. 360-2736849, RLP25@juno.com Magnificent Friesian Stallion for Stud Hannibal of Valhalla. Hannibal is a 2002 Friesian stallion born of KFPS Dutch Approved Stallion Sibald 380. 484-646-9010 valhallafriesian@aol.com Homozygous! Exotic, tall & stretchy, with trot!

Intro stud fee for 2008. Sweepstakes nom.Spotz Sensation is a gorgeous black & white tobiano stallion. 715-210-5371 Clearcreekarabians@yahoo.com Homozygous! The Color of Fame son who can trot! He is a direct son of the nationally known stallion, The Color of Fame. 715-2105371 Clearcreekarabians@yahoo.com 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 Classic Champagne 1/2 Friesian 1/2 ASB , UKIAH. 2008 introductory fee is $500 to approved mares. 320.679.4765 norsk4765@yahoo.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.

WEBSITE AND GRAPIC DESIGN Professional Website and Ad Design.

Rosebud Productions. www.rosebudpro.com 507-943-3355 rosebudpro@bevcomm.net ADVERTISERS INDEX Agstar Arena Fenceline-Service Equipment Arena Trailers Black Hills Horse Properties Bob Jeffreys/Suzanne Shepard Cannon Falls Trailer Sales Cleary Buildings Dennis Auslam - Rewood Stables Excalibur Breeding Center Federated Coop Grassland Solutions Horse Digests.com Horse Sense Radio Horseware Ireland I90 Expo Center J&B Western Store Julie Goodnight Ken McNabb Krebsbach Performance Horses Little Falls Horse Fest Lynn Palm Minnesota Equifest Minnesota Horse Council

page 13 page 14 page 44 page 40 page 8 page 41 page 19 page 16 page 16 page 25 page 15 page 5 page 34 page 22 & 23 page 7 page 9 page 18 page 10 page 39 page 3 page 25 page 43 page 8 & 34

MN School Of Horse Shoeing More Custom Leather North Country Breeders Northland Buildings Palma Feed Pleasant Hills Rosebud Productions R.T. Duggan Roger Berg Schatzlein Saddle Shop Simon Arena/Twin Cities Horse Sale Stable Pros SM Iron The Natural Gait Triple Crown Custom Twin Cities Featherlite United Vet Equine UBRA U of M Extention Wehr's Chevrolet Westwind Shelters WHolistic Horse William Woods University Wright-Way Trailer

page 20 page 39 page 33 page 17 page 39 page 27, 39 page 39 page 39 page 39 page 19 page 35 page 31 page 19 page 39 page 2 page 11 page 21 page 42 page 29 page 29 page 21 page 30 page 17 page 24

September 08

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7.5X24 3H, Norstar LX, Mid Tack & 7' Trail Boss Solid Oak LQ, AC/Furnace, Dinette, 6 cu Refg, Micro, Sink, Hot Water, Stool, Cowboy Shower, 3 Mangers, Drop Down Feed Doors w/Drop Bars. AD#2061

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7x14’ 7’6” tall Sunlite All Alumn, 2 Horse w/Mangers Straight Load, Walk-thru to dress room, drop down feed doors, double rear doors w/Ramp, Padded divider & stalls, saddle racks under mangers. AD#0490

7’x23’ 7’ tall 4 horse w/6’ to 10’ dress rm, camper door w/screen. Escape door w/drop down feed door, low mount latches w/face bars, collap rear tack, padded dividers, stud divider, 2-step awning, spare tire. AD#4200

7X18 7’ Tall Dlx Mustang 3 H, 4’ - 8’ Dress Rm, Cloth Rod, Escape Dr w/Drop Dwn, Feed Door & Bars, Collap. Rear Tack, Padded Div, Load Light, LED Lights, Stud Divider, Graphic Pkg, Stainless Simulators, 7000 lb Axles, 16” 10 ply Radials, Spare. AD#7782 New $21,900

8X27 TOC 3 H w/12’ Stallion Solid Oak LQ, 2’ to 6’ Mid Tack, Rear Tack, Generator, 6cu Refg, 2 Burner Stove, Micro, Stereo, AC, Ducted Furn, Lg Dinette, Swivel Chair, sep. Bathrm w/Shower and Stool, Swing out Saddle Racks, Padded Div, Drop Feed Doors. AD#2198

Very Clean. Sale Price $11,900

Very Clean. Used Very Little. $17,900

Save/Like New. Sale Price $17,900

Clean. Affordable. Sale Price $23,500

2005 Exiss GN

2000 Featherlite GN

1995 Sooner GN

2005 Trails West Sierra GN

7x18 7’ Tall 3 horse sport ES300 4’ to 8’ dress room, escape door, drop down feed doors w/bars, collap. rear tack, spare tire. AD#4458

7x22 7’tall 4 horse 4’ to 8’ dress room, sofa-sleeper, 110 volt pkg, dinette window, walk-thru door, camper door w/screen, escape door, drop down windows w/face screens, collap. rear tack, spare tire. AD#7008

7’X20’ 7’ Tall 3 H, 4’ Dress Rm, 2’-6’ MID TACK, Rear Tack, Trlr is Lined & Insulated, Dress Rm & Mid Tack, Drp Dwn Wndws, Rear Load Rmp, Dbl Rear Drs, Load Lights, Alum Rims, Like New Michelin Tires, Spare Painted Roof Rail, Clean-Clean Trailer.

Good Condition! $13,500

When Sooner was a Sooner. $14,500

2 H Lined, Insulat, Carpet, & Xtra Footage in Dress Rm, Boot Box, Collaps. Rear Tack, Swing Out Sddl Rck & Blnkt Bar, Drop Dwn Feed Drs/Safety Bars, Walk-thru Dr, Drp Dwn Wndw in Escape Dr, Floor Mats, Water Tank, fridge, Micro, TV Hookup AD#5072

Very Clean Trailer.

Sale Price $12,900 7 Major Brands

Elite • Trail-Et • S&H • Hay Van • DCT • Cherokee • Twister

PERFECT WEEKENDER. LIKE NEW. $11,200

C A N N O N FA L L S T R A I L E R S A L E S 1 mile east of Hwy 52 & Cty 86 Cannon Falls, MN

888-263-7212 www.cannonfallstrailers.com

Chuck Erdahl, Owner/Manager Dan Erdahl, Sales/Service

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