Midwest Horse Digest August 2009

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Midwest Horse Digest

Rahn Greimann, Publisher, Owner and Editor © 2008 Greimann Industries 35418 90th Street Blue Earth, MN 56013 507-526-5943 Fax 507-526-2629

Advertising Contacts Mark Bahls and Peg Bahls 507-943-3355/Fax 507-943-3352 mark@horsedigests.com peg@horsedigests.com Andrea Jo Kroening 952-237-5311 andrea@horsedigests.com Rick and Julie Vinsand 877.205.7261 rick@horsedigests.com julie@horsedigests.com Midwest Horse Digest is distributed FREE at equinerelated 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

LET THE GAMES BEGIN! Midwest Horse Fair® announces 2010 theme The Midwest Horse Fair®, one of the nation’s top three day equestrian events will be held April 16-18, 2010 at the Alliant Energy Center in Madison, Wis. In recognition of the 2010 World Equestrian Games coming to the United States for the first time ever, the theme of the 2010 Midwest Horse Fair® will be: “Let the Games Begin.”

While the World Equestrian Games is an event that brings together the best equestrians from around the world to compete in disciplines such as dressage, driving, endurance, eventing, jumping, reining and vaulting, the Midwest Horse Fair® brings some of the top clinicians and exhibitors from all over the country.

“As we plan for the 2010 Midwest Horse Fair®, we are very excited to be able to offer world-class entertainment and education in some of the same disciplines that can be seen at the World Equestrian Games,” said Rhonda Reese, General Manager of the Midwest Horse Fair®. “The theme, ‘Let the Games Begin,’ provides wonderful opportunities for bringing in high-quality clinicians, exhibitors, and events.”

Started in 1979, The Midwest Horse Fair® has been growing and going strong for over 30 years. With an attendance of 52,000 people during the 2009 three-day event, this equine expo offers something for everyone. Over 500 exhibitors offer unique shopping and educational opportunities 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 ongoing entertainment appeal to both horse owners and those who just love horses.

The World Equestrian Games will be held in September 2010 at the Kentucky

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Horse Park. Started in 1990 as a way to determine the World Champions in eight equestrian sports, the games have previously been held throughout Europe. Held every four years, two years prior to the Olympic Games, the World Equestrian Games are governed by the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI).

The best way to stay up to date with 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 and join the Midwest Horse Fair® as they commence to “Let the Games Begin!”

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

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Contents Articles

8 Mastering Rein Management

by Chris Cox with Cynthia McFarland

10 Common Sense Tips to Keep Your Horse Cool This Summer

by Tommy Garland

12 Do You Trust Your Horse?

Of Interest 5 13

by Ken McNabb with Katherine Lindsey Meehan

14 Show Off Your Horse

by Bob Jeffreys & Suzanne Sheppard

16 Keeping Kids Safe Around Horses?

by Mary Hamilton

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18 For the Comfort of Your Horse

by Dennis Auslam

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20 Communicating with Your Aids...

Keys to Success, Part 10, Bending and Turning Aids

Midwest Horse Fair Announces 2010 Theme 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games Announces AQHA as Official Reining Breed Sponsor Equine Assisted Learning Sixth Annual IFSHA World and Grand National Horse Show AHC Seeks to Document Equestrian Access Issues on Public Land Equestrian Landowners Affected by New Property Tax Legislation

by Lynn Palm

22 Rain or Shine?

Special Sections

by Jennifer Lindgren

24 Saddling for the first time

by Monty Bruce

30 Terrain Training!

by Tracy Porter

32 Green on Green makes black and blue Selecting the Right Horse

by Craig Cameron

About Our Cover and Issue Highlights Our cover, Friesian stallion "Dante FQ", owned by Friesian Quest LLC, Tammy Hildreath, and ridden by Sandra Williams at the 2008 IFSHA Friesian World and Grand National Championship Horse Show.

See pages 26 and 27 for information on the 2009 IFSHA Friesian World and Grand National Championship Horse Show.

We hope you enjoy this issue of

Midwest Horse Digest!

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

THANK YOU! VISIT OUR WEBSITE: WWW .HORSEDIGESTS.COM

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Equine Central Advertisers Index Ready to Ride Guide Traders Corner Real Estate Upcoming Events Classifieds Photo Classifieds

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instead of panicking,” notes Chris, who finds that rein management techniques are not as well taught as they should be.

“Any professional needs to learn the tools of their trade, and this is why you need to practice good rein management.”

Among the common mistakes many riders make are riding with reins too long, and pulling up and back in an effort to control the horse. The natural tendency is to pull back on the reins when the horse acts up. What many people don’t realize is that you can get the horse off balance by using your reins the wrong way, which can make a bad situation worse. In addition, if you pull your hands up into your chest or past your hips, this puts you off balance instead of being centered in the saddle.

Chris finds that people who don’t learn rein management often ride on a tight rein all the time. This never gives the horse relief, plus it gives the horse something to resist and push against. If you continually ride with constant pressure on his mouth, it will eventually desensitize him and make him stiff and resent the bit. Your horse should be able to work naturally on a loose rein.

Lateral and vertical flexion are vital stages of training, which we will cover in upcoming articles, but you can’t begin teaching this until you have mastered rein management. In the beginning, Chris suggests using a sport rein, or single rope rein, simply because this is easier to handle than split reins. English-style reins with a buckle in the middle also are helpful for learning rein management.

Mastering Rein Management by

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Chris Cox with Cynthia McFarland

“Many accidents could be avoided if riders learned proper rein management,” says popular clinician and twotime Road to the Horse Champion Chris Cox. “You need to have a trained habit of handling your reins so that in an emergency you automatically respond the right way

Practice Handling Reins The first step is to find the middle of your reins, which is the buckle if you ride with English reins. With rope reins, you might find it helpful to put a piece of tape or mark the

center so you can find the middle quickly.

Sit in the center of your saddle seat with your arms and hands forward. It’s important to keep your arms straight and forward with your elbows locked. If you don’t start in this position, you end up with your arms behind your body, which shifts your body forward, throwing you off balance.

With your left hand, pick up the middle of your reins and extend your arm all the way forward.

“Choke” the rein by sliding your right hand all the way down the rein to your horse’s neck.

Using your left hand, twist the rein to the left to make a loop in your rein, and let the slack fall to the left side of your horse’s neck.

Now reach to hold your rein withboth of your hands. Create a rein “bridge” between your hands and put the rein loop in your left

Start out by finding the middle of your reins.

(Photo Darrell Dodds)

hand. Work with both hands on the reins when you are doing flexion exercises with the horse.

The bridge functions somewhat like training wheels on a bike and lets you know where your hands are. You can widen or shorten the bridge by sliding your hands along the rein.

Holding vs. Pulling The more pressure you put on a horse’s mouth, the more you give him something to fight. Pressure on the horse’s mouth has the opposite effect you might think and actually causes him to speed up instead of slow down or stop. This is why, although you obviously will use your arms and hands in rein management, the majority of pressure should be applied through your body and seat—not your hands.

Before you move on the flexion exercises, you need to understand the difference between creating a “hold” and pulling on the reins.

“You want to use your arms and hands to create a ‘hold’ on your horse’s mouth, not a pull,” Chris explains. “Think of how it feels when someone puts a hand on your shoulder

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– not to pull or push you, but just to hold you in place. If you try to move away, you feel the pressure of the hold. If you move toward the person, the pressure is gone.”

Use this same technique to create a hold on your horse’s mouth with your reins. When your horse gives his head to you, the pressure is gone. That’s what you try to accomplish with

to use your body to move your arms, instead of bending your elbows to move your arms.

"Choke" the rein down to your horse's neck (Photo: Darrell Dodds)

the hold. Never pull your horse’s head; simply hold his mouth until he gives.

When handling your reins, make it a point

When your arms are held straight and forward, you can roll backward or forward on your seat bones to move your arms. Moving your entire body this way, instead of bending only your arms, helps you stay balanced and stable. You have more strength and stability, and can more easily give to the horse when he gives to you. You also can sit deeper in the saddle when preparing for the back, stop or collection.

“Everyone wants to have a horse that is soft and responsive,” says Chris. “I can’t stress enough how important it is to practice rein management. The more comfortable you are handling your reins, the better you can handle your horse.

Up Close with Chris Cox Born in Florida and ranch-raised in

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Australia, Chris returned to the United States in 1986 to make a career of working with horses. Years of working horseback on the ranch near Queensland gave Chris a healthy respect for the horse’s ability and intelligence, and helped him develop his own methods of individualized training.

Active in the cutting horse world as both a trainer and competitor, Chris has trained a variety of breeds for different disciplines. He also loves to rope, having been into calf roping in the past, and in more recent years, team roping.

Create a "bridge" with your reins as you use both hands (Photo: Darrell Dodds)

THE

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Chris, his wife, Barbara, and their daughter, Charley, live on their Diamond Double C Ranch in Mineral Wells, Texas.

Chris travels around the world appearing at expos, conducting clinics and horsemanship demonstrations. His “Come Ride the Journey’ tour takes him to cities across the U.S. each year. This two-time Road to the Horse Champion offers week-long intensive horsemanship clinics at his Texas ranch, and has a regular horsemanship program on RFD-TV. Western Horseman has released Ride the Journey, by Chris Cox with Cynthia McFarland, a 225-page book packed with step-by-step exercises and color photos that details Chris’ practical methods and training techniques. Visit www.chris-cox.com or call 1-888-81-HORSE for information on upcoming clinic and course dates, expo appearances, equipment, books and training DVDs.

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Common Sense Tips to Keep Your Horse Cool This Summer

By Tommy Garland

Summer is here and in many areas of the country, it’s here with a vengeance, with temperatures exceeding 90+ degrees on a daily basis. Here are some ‘reminders’ on providing proper care during the hot summer months: Your horse should have unlimited access to clean, fresh water all day, every day. NOTE: If you have an automatic watering system, make sure you check it daily (especially when it’s extremely hot outside) to insure it’s functioning properly. If you’re using buckets, check the buckets frequently each day as well to make sure they’re clean and full.

If your horse is outdoors in a pasture or arena, make sure you have a covered shed or trees, etc, for shade. Just like you, your horse needs to be able to get out of the hot sun and get into a shaded area to stay cool.

Access to salt blocks will encourage your horse to drink more water and stay hydrated.

A properly hydrated horse is less likely to be

adversely affected by extreme heat.

If your horse is sweating while standing in their stall, you can (and should) take them to your wash area gently hose them down to remove the sweat and to help lower their body temperature. It’s important to remember to use low to moderate water pressure and start at your horse’s feet and work up slowly until you’ve covered their entire body. You can do this several times a day if necessary.

Fans can also be used to keep your horse more comfortable, especially if they spend any amount of time in a stall. Keeping the air moving around your horse will help keep them more comfortable and will also provide some ventilation benefits, especially in hot and humid climates.

Consider working your horse earlier in the morning or later in the evening when temperatures are typically cooler. There are days when it makes sense to work your horse lightly or not at all.

If you’re hauling/trailering your horse for any

length of time, consider giving them electrolytes a day before you leave. Electrolytes are an invaluable tool in keeping your horse hydrated during long trips. Stop often to offer water, or better yet use a slosh-proof rim on your buckets and keep the water available to your horse during your trip.

And last but not least…use common sense! Your horse relies on YOU to help ease them through extremely hot days so don’t disappoint them… use these common sense ideas to keep them cool!

About Tommy Garland Tommy Garland has ridden horses all his life and credits his trainer father, also named Tommy with teaching him much of what he learned early on about horsemanship. Tommy has spent the past 30 years training, not only Arabians and Half-Arabians but Quarter Horses, Tennessee Walking Horses, Paints and Mules as well. His techniques have been universally accepted, respected and utilized by horse owners of all breeds and disciplines.

In addition to his popular TV show, “CPR For The Horse & Rider” on RFD TV, Tommy regularly participates at clinics, expos and other equestrian events throughout the United States, Canada and Brazil. Tommy will be holding a clinic at the prestigious Iowa Gold Star Show in Des Moines Iowa on September 3-7 2009. Tommy is also a regular contributor to several popular equine publications and his online clinics and training DVD’s are valuable resources for any who loves horses!

Tommy resides in Virginia with his wife Dawn and children, Samantha, Katie and TBird (Tommy Jr.). For additional information on Tommy’s products, training aids, DVDs, clinics and expo schedules, please visit www.tommygarland.com or email us at info@tommygarland.com.

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Do You Trust Your Horse?

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is time to start establishing trust in the saddle. As with the ground work, you need just a few simple exercises that you can practice again and again to get you out of trouble if things go wrong. Before I by with Katherine Lindsey Meehan ever get on a new horse, even if it has Their horse may get nervous and start been ridden for years, I want to be sure I can crowding on top of them, or just general- do two things with the bridle. First, pick up on ly fidgeting around. Practice these simple one rein and make sure your horse will leading exercises to teach your horse respond by bending his nose in the direction of that it is to his benefit to stand quietly with the pressure. Practice this on both sides. you when you ask him to.

Then, make sure you can move your horse’s The first mistake I see people make hindquarters with either rein. What I mean by when they are leading a nervous horse or that is when you pick up on the rein and have trying to get their horse to stand still is your horse’s nose bent softly, you should be that they will grab the lead rope right at able to ask him to move his hips away from the snap under the horse’s chin and try to you. He should step the closer hind foot away physically hang on to him. Your horse from you by crossing it under himself in front weighs a lot more than you do, and there of the outside hind foot. Once you can do both is no way you can physically stop him of these exercises with the bridle on the from moving if he wants to. However, you ground, do them in the saddle. The hip movecan create movement and then direct it. ment exercise that you practiced on the Stand with your horse next to you on a ground is your one rein stop in the saddle. loose lead. If he starts to move around, This is your emergency brake when you are send him off around you in a circle at the having a wreck. Practice it at all speeds, trot. Have him go around you a few times, including the lope and run. At faster speeds then ask him to whoa and give him the you will need to circle more slowly so you don’t opportunity to stand next to you again. If flip your horse as you bring his speed down. he fidgets again, send him off. You are Also, it is important to practice in both direcnot trying to make him sweat and tire him tions but at the lope always turn your horse in out, you are just building his respect for to the lead he is on to help him keep his balyou and your confidence in him by focus- ance. ing on what you can do (create moveThe last thing that I like to see people do ment and direct it) rather than what you to build trust is add some speed. Many people can’t do (physically hold your horse still). have never let their horse open up under A second common mistake is walk- saddle. It is a huge boost to your confidence How much confidence do you have in your horse? Will you take him anywhere, or do ing along with your horse either dragging when you know that you have opened him you avoid some situations because you are behind you as you pull on the lead rope, or up, felt what he does, and that you can ride afraid you will not be able to control him? This your horse constantly getting ahead of your it and slow him back down Find a big month, we will cover some simple exercises shoulder and dragging you along. If your horse enclosed arena where you will be safe and that will increase your trust in your horse and drags along behind you, use the tail of your have room, and ask your horse for some give you the confidence to put him in new sit- lead rope and tap him on the hip to drive him speed some day. Practice speeding him up forward. If he is getting ahead of you, stop him and slowing him back down. Practice till you uations.

Start with ground work. One situation and back him up every time he passes your feel confident that he will shut down for you where I commonly see people get nervous shoulder. If he gets crooked and evasive dur- from a gallop.

Remember, the most important thing is about their horses is when they are at a horse ing these exercises, you can walk with the show or in some other environment where fence on his outside to help him understand always your safety first, and your horse’s there is a lot going on, and they are standing that he needs to stay straight and listen to your safety. The exercises I have suggested here work for me, but it is your training philosophy, with their horse trying to talk to someone. cues, not evade them.

Once you feel confident on the ground, it not the actual exercises you do, that counts.

Always keep safety first in your riding and training.

It is very important that you work through all of these exercises calmly and patiently.

Your horse needs to view you as a leader, one that he can trust. You need to come across as someone who can protect him if things go wrong. Losing your temper and thumping on your horse does not establish leadership or trust. It just shows your horse that you are not in control of your emotions.

The bottom line in establishing your confidence and trust in your horse is that you need to know exactly how you will react if things go wrong. Visualize situations that might happen and exactly what you will do.

Then, you need to practice your plan till you and your horse know it perfectly.

Enjoy your horses and until next time, may God bless the trails you ride.

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

Ken McNabb

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2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games Announces The American Quarter Horse Association as the worldwide Official Reining Breed Sponsor registered The World Games 2010 Foundation, Inc. and AQHA membertoday announced the American Quarter Horse Association as the Official Reining Breed Sponsor. Reining will be one of eight world championships contested at the Games, which will be held at Lexington’s Kentucky Horse Park on September 25-October 10, 2010.

As the Official Reining Breed Sponsor, AQHA will assist with the promotion and coverage of Reining during the 2010 Games, and will be featured in the Equine Village. In addition Reining will be prominently featured during NBC’s 90-minute broadcast of the Games’ opening weekend.

“As the world’s largest single-breed equine organization, we are excited to have the AQHA become a sponsor of the 2010 Games,” said Terry Johnson, vice president of sales and marketing for the Foundation. “This sponsorship will allow us to expose the sport of reining to a mass audience in the United States, and beyond, like never before.”

Reining was added to the FEI as a discipline in 2000 and was featured for the first time in 2002 at the FEI World Equestrian Games in Jerez, Spain. The reining competitions at the 2006 Games in Aachen, Germany, launched the discipline and its athletes into fame, with sold-out performances and loud, fanatical crowds.

As the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian

Games come to Kentucky, the sport of reining is sure to enjoy a sort of “homecoming” in the United States as the only western discipline recognized by the FEI. Plans are under way to feature reining in new and exciting ways in 2010, including a newly approved schedule format – allowing for more public sessions of the discipline.

“AQHA is so proud to sponsor this prestigious event, and we are excited it is being held for the first time in the United States,” said AQHA President Jim Helzer.

“Although AQHA is an international organization with members and horses around the world, the majority of our membership and horses reside here in the U.S.A. Having the World Equestrian Games in Kentucky gives our members a great opportunity to participate and see this event firsthand.

“I also want to recognize our partners at the Reining Horse Sports Foundation who teamed with us on the expanded television coverage. Now more people across the globe will be seeing the discipline of Reining and the horse that does it best.”

The American Quarter Horse Association is the world’s largest single-breed equine registry and membership organization, with more than 5 million American Quarter Horses

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ship numbering more than 330,000. AQHA’s mission is to record and preserve the pedigrees of the American Quarter Horse while maintaining the integrity of the breed and to provide beneficial services for its members which enhance and encourage American Quarter Horse ownership and participation.

The Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games are the world championships of eight equestrian disciplines recognized by the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI). Her Royal Highness Princess Haya is the current president of the FEI. The Games are held every four years and this will be the first occurrence in the United States.

The Games will be broadcast on NBC Sports, which has marked the largest commitment to network coverage of equestrian sport in U.S. television history. The 2010 Games are expected to have a statewide economic impact of $150 million, and current sponsors include Alltech, Rolex, John Deere, Ariat International, Inc and Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital.

For more information on the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, please visit www.alltechfeigames.com Media Contact:: Amy Walker, 859-225-2010 ext. 235, awalker@feigames2010.org

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Show off with Your Horse!

By Bob Jeffreys & Suzanne Sheppard

For the past few years we’ve been presenting our Wind Rider Equestrian Challenge across North America. It’s the hottest new cross disciplinary competition around, in which all breeds and all disciplines are invited to compete on a timed versatility course of challenges inspired by the best in every discipline! Every course is different, but each one is made up of challenges include trail obstacles, jumps, ring jousting, elements of reining and d r e s s a g e , gymkhana and more.

What’s truly unique about this competition is not only the truly versatile course: it’s how the judges score each horse/rider team.

We designed our Wind Rider Challenge to truly reward the best relationship between horse

and rider; to do so, we came up with four specific criteria for the judges to consider.

Our panel of three judges consider, in equal weight; Horsemanship (Does the rider help his horse take on the challenge course with tact?)

Equitation (Does the rider’s equitation improve the horse’s way of moving, or does he/she interfere with it?)

Accuracy/correctness (Does the horse go over the bridge, take the jump, etc?)

The horse’s attitude (Even if he’s nervous is he willing, and does he trust his rider?)

What doesn’t count? How much bling is on the tack, how trendy the rider’s outfit, or whether the horse’s haircoat is perfect. This competition is about the horse and rider working together as a team, rather than against each other. The top three teams earn the chance to compete in the final rounds on a new Challenge course, followed by the chance to wow the judges and the crowds with a musical freestyle.

We’ve seen some amazing freestyles that rival the best professional equine performers…. Check out the video clips on our website to see the fun and get inspired!

To encourage even more people to join us, this column is the first in a series that will explain exactly how to train your horse (and yourself!) to master the challenges that may be included in the next Wind Rider Challenge

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near you. In each article we’ll focus on one skill or obstacle. Together we’ll cover how to canter correct circles with the ability to speed up and slow down, square halts from the canter, sidepassing ground poles, how to take a two foot jump correctly (even in a Western saddle!), ring jousting, javelin throwing at the canter, turning on the forehand or haunches, lateral work and more.

In this article we’ll discuss the proper way to open, pass through, and close a gate, a task inspired by trail class. This seems simple enough, but unless you know how it can be quite daunting, especially if your horse dances around and you can’t even get him to halt and relax next to the gate.

Therefore you need a good, obedient halt: this is an important, practical skill that will help you and your horse not only with many of the challenge elements in our competition, but also whenever you ride or handle your horse. Several other prerequisites include your horse going forward, backing in a straight line, and moving laterally, all on cue, for exactly as many steps as you ask.

For the purposes of this article we’ll assume that your horse is already confirmed in the above skills. Let’s also assume that, for simplicity’s sake, our gate is made up of two jump standards with a rope secured to one and attached to the other by a loop on the end. Usually the standards are placed three to four feet apart. When you begin this lesson make it easy for your horse by undoing the loop and letting it hang down out of the way before you mount up. Once mounted simply approach the gate and ride around and through it with apparent disinterest in the object itself. This demeanor on your part will signal to your horse that there is nothing scary about the gate. Then begin just stopping by the gate, resting and then moving on.

As with every new lesson, be sure to release all pressure and pet your horse, especially in the beginning, so that he understands exactly what behavior you want.

To set up for the next step dismount, attach the loop end to the opposite standard create a “gate”, and remount. Then halt next to the standard with the loop, pick it up and then replace it on the standard, all with an attitude of “This is no big deal”. Do this several times until your horse is pretty calm standing there steadily as you pick up the rope and replace it.

Take as much time as you need here, and do so on both sides so you can approach a gate in either direction.

Now pick one side and stick with it; let’s assume that you’ve directed your horse to halt with the gate on your left. Hold your reins in your right hand, pick up the loop with your left hand, back up slightly and then guide your horse in between the jump standards.

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Horses that neck rein well have a clear advantage here, so both Western and English riders would benefit if they and their horse now how to not only direct rein, but to neck rein properly, too! Of course, if your horse gets worried or squirrelly, it’s better to drop the rope than to pull the standard on top of you. If this happens, you’ve be gone too far, too fast; go back to getting your horse comfortable with walking between the standards calmly, and pretend you’re holding the rope. Mimic the arm movements, etc. As soon as you’re about 80-85% sure that he’s ready, try the rope again. If he’s steady, once you’ve guided your horse through the two standards, turn left (moving the shoulders to the left and the hindquarters somewhat to the right is the most efficient way to do this while staying close to the obstacle). Then simple back up in a straight line the two or three steps required to position yourself next to the other standard.

Once halted, simply put the loop back on the standard, effectively closing “the gate”.

Practice this until it’s just about perfect, and then repeat the lesson on the right side.

If you take the time to teach your horse this lesson, you won’t get tangled up in the rope gate, or need to switch hands, or pass the rope over your horse’s head because he’s moved out of place, spun around, or backed up uncontrollably, or lean over so much that you almost fall off! Your horse should be able to simply approach the gate as you specifically direct, halt in position, wait as you lift the loop off the standard, pass through the standards calmly, turn forehand and hindquarters on command, back up the exact number of steps you request, and stand quietly right next the to other standard as you easily replace the loop.

Remember that once he’s just about perfect at home you’ll need to prepare him for the stimulation and distractions that are unavoidable in an arena with a crowd watching, lights, a sound system, flash bulbs going off, applause, etc. So practice this same lesson in unfamiliar environments with new distractions, like a friend’s indoor arena, a

Improve Visibility with Lighted Safety Device When Riding on Roads Developed as a safety device to improve visibility of horse and rider, especially to oncoming vehicular traffic, the new LED Lighted Browband Cover from Natural Horse Health Centre attaches quickly and easily with Velcro tabs that wrap around existing tack such as browband, reins, harness, etc.

Made of lightweight, weatherproof nylon with reflective stitching to maximize visibility even more, it has six embedded LED lights which operate in both solid and flashing modes. Operation is simple: press a button on the tiny control unit at one end of the 12” strip to select on/off and light mode.

The attention grabbing, high intensity, white LED lights are visible 1000 feet away alerting drivers and other riders of the presence of horses. Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) provide brilliantly bright light without heat and are efficiently powered by long life (40-60 hours) lithium batteries. The unit comes with two batteries installed ready to go along with a spare set.

The Browband Cover also provides a bright new way to make a dramatic entrance or bring dazzling ‘bling’ to parades, festivals, special events, carriage driving, drill riding, musical ride presentations and riding demonstrations.

Safety is its main purpose. When sharing roadways, trails or wilderness with other riders and especially motorized vehicles –

whether cars, ATVs, motorcycles, bicycles – the Lighted Browband Cover protects with style and simplicity so riders/drivers and their horses are seen and safe.

This spectacular way to be safely in sight at nighttime or in low light conditions is not limited to horse and rider. The Browband Cover easily accommodates a dog collar, leash, backpack strap, belt, cyclist’s gear – there are unlimited ways to use this neat idea.

Natural Horse Health Centre is an online source of Health and Safety products for horses and dogs plus other gifts for you.

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warm up ring at the fairground where there are other horses preparing to show, etc. By training your horse to focus on you by doing the job you require, especially when he’s in an unfamiliar environment, you’ll not only have a solid partner in the competition: you’ll also have a more reliable horse who will focus on you on the trail, in the show ring, or just about anywhere.

Next month we’ll discuss another great lesson for the versatile, all around horse, no matter what your discipline. Have fun, and ride safe! © Bob Jeffreys 7/09.

Bob Jeffreys and Suzanne Sheppard travel across North America teaching people how to bring out the best in their horses. Their homebase is Two as One Ranch in Middletown, NY. For info about Bob & Suzanne’s Wind Rider Challenge, private horse training lessons, riding lessons, clinics, DVDs, books, Horsemanship Ed Courses and ProTrack™ Trainer Certification Programs please visit TwoasOneHorsemanship.com or call 845-692-7478.

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midwest horse digest

y r a M k As Ask Mary: “What are some important safety rules to keep kids safe around horses?”

Farm safety is a very important topic for kids. They associate horses with fun not as large animals capable of hurting them. Our responsibility as adults is two fold. We need to (1) educate them about safety around horses and (2) supervise their activities so they follow the rules. That way safety becomes a habit. Here are some important rules for safety around horses. Sit down with your children and go over each of these eight safety rules or print this column

August 09

Mary Hamilton answers your training questions!

and put it up on your tack room door to remind them to make safety a priority.

Rule Number 1 – If you use it, put it back where it belongs Pitchforks, grooming tools, halters and water buckets left on the ground or barn aisle become hazards that you or your horse can trip over and get hurt. After using a tool, pick it up and return it to where it belongs. As an added bonus you won’t have to go search for it the next time you need it.

Rule Number 2 – Close and latch the gate every time you use it Every time you open a gate, lock it behind you. Even if you are coming right back through it. Horse’s can quickly scoot out an open gate. Once loose, they can become

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excited and possibly get injured, especially if they run out onto a road.

Rule Number 3 – Always have your horse secured in some way Don’t leave your horse loose when leading, grooming or tacking up. Always have your horse safely tied in some manner. For instance, when changing from halter to bridle, buckle the halter around your horse’s neck with the lead rope still tied securely while you put the bridle on.

Rule Number 4 – Don’t play with your horse without supervision Never ride alone. Always ask permission from your parents before you take your horse out. Your parents can decide if it’s safe for you.

Rule Number 5 – Always wear a helmet when you ride You never know when an accident is going to happen and you might fall off your horse. Always wear a well-fitting, safety certified, equestrian helmet to protect your head.

Rule Number 6 – Do a safety inspection of your equipment before mounting up After you have saddled and bridled your horse, make a quick inspection to make sure your equipment is properly adjusted. This means all your buckles are buckled and you have double and triple checked your cinch for tightness.

Rule Number 7 – When riding always keep one horse length of space between your horse and another one Horses like their personal space. Always keep at least one horse length apart for safety.

Following too closely can put you at risk of a horse kicking . Horses prone to kicking should have a red ribbon on their tail when riding with others. This warns others to stay away so they won’t get kicked.

Rule Number 8 – Watch for horse behavior warning signs If your horse is acting nervous, pinning his ears, swishing his tail or pawing, these are all warning signs that something is not right.

Don’t get on. Instead, get a knowledgeable adult to help you.

Horse riding can be a wonderful experience for kids. It can teach them the responsibility of caring for an animal and be a lot of fun. Make their experience with horses a safe one by teaching them safe ways of handling horses. Supervise them to insure that safety becomes not only a rule but also a habit for life.

Mary is a Mounted Police instructor and a fully insured ARICP riding instructor.

She devotes her creative energy to developing customized training programs to improve show ring performance, mount obedience and despooking trail horses utilizing training methods used in training police horses. Visit her website at www.riderselite.com or email your questions to Mary at: mary@riderselite.com

August 09

midwest horse digest

New Formula

Sore No More® Gets Salvey with a Unique New Formula Sore No More® Sports Salve is a multi-faceted protective leg grease and so much more. It puts the world famous Sore No More® recipe to other uses. We all know that horses that run, race, jump, or participate in activities where impact potential exists, whether recreationally or for competition, need to have extra protection.

Soft tissue injuries such as muscle, tendon and ligament injuries, as well as the more serious conditions, such as inflamed joints and arthritis, are common problems for performance horses of all types—even for those in training prior to competition. If ignored, these conditions cannot only hamper performance, but may lead to permanent damage and disability. Sore No More Sports® Salve provides that extra peace of mind!

This liniment inside a cream base blend can be used on horses from all disciplines.

Sore No More® Sports Salve is a cooling liniment paste that addresses a wide variety of issues, ranging from protecting legs during jumping competitions to cuts, burns, scrapes, cracked heels, dry cracked hooves to skin irritations, eczema, rashes and the like. It also makes a great natural leg sweat for those animals with sensitive skin.

Sore No More® Sports Salve is designed to be used daily, even several times a day if necessary. It is gentler to the skin in comparison to other leg liniment creams and may be used over cuts and scrapes and under bandages. Sore No More® Sports Salve should be used preventatively as part of your daily training regime and not just for post trauma or injuries.

Eventers and all active horse enthusiasts now have an American made product – readily accessible and available at your local feed, farm or tack store.

About Equilite Inc. Headquartered in Pottstown, PA, Equilite Inc. the creator of all-natural botanical products for animals; best known for the award-winning Sore No More® brand; their arnica based herbal cooling liniment line.

Equilite’s product line also includes herbal supplements, Botanical Animal flower essences, horse sprays and more. For additional information on Equilite or its products please visit www.equilite.com or call 800-942-5483

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August 09

For The Comfort Of Your Horse...

Saddles, Bits, Chiropractic Care

As riders we have a tendency to be concerned about our comfort. We think about everything from smoothness of gait to the comfort of the saddle while not really considering the comfort of the horse.

Step into your horses position and realize that they, like us, have good days and bad days. They can become misaligned, have toothaches and headaches just like we can and we have a responsibility to these animals.

Owning a horse involves an obligation to take care of them, physically and emotionally.

I don’t want to sound like a pet psychologist, but the longer I am in the horse business the more I realize these animals have physical and psychological needs.

As riders we need to start at the ground and move up. The horses feet are on the ground and we, as riders, are the last thing in the equation. We have to make sure our horses have proper hoofcare, trimming and shoeing and that there are no abcesses or other hoof issues. From there we work our way up, making sure our horse is sound before we start adding the manmade materials to the equation, such as bits, saddles and pads.

Starting with the bit, we need to have a proper bit for the horse's training level and for the comfort of the horse. There are many choices and you need to have a good knowledge of what bits do and how they work to make a wise choice. You should consult a

by

Dennis Auslam

professional in this area if you lack the knowledge and understanding concerning what bits work for different training levels of both the horse and the rider. I see a lot of bits misused do to lack of knowledge and education in both of these areas. Missed used bits can range anywhere from a snaffle bit to a hackamore and one of the most commonly misused bits is the Tom Thumb bit. It truly is one of the worst to use.

To insure that your bit is not pinching your horse lay it in the palm of your hand and manipulate it, simulating the horses mouth. If it pinches you anywhere there is a good chance it is pinching your horses mouth.

Pads - there are several good quality pads on the market today, but don't expect to go out and pay $35 or $45 dollars and think that you have a good quality pad that will protect your horse. I personally prefer the CSI pad, as it is fits my needs.

Always inspect your pad with each use, as it needs to be clean and debris free before using it. Proper fit of the pad is important and it should have some wither release and offer some circulation on the backbone.

If you are riding and noticing spots, or white scaly bumps in the girth area, breast collar area, pad area or even under the head stall, you have a yeast infection going on. You need to change the girth and pad. Keep your pad or blanket as clean and dry as possible and wash it per manufacturers recommendations. Sun drying will kill a lot of those bugs.

Saddle- The first thing you need to do before each use is inspect the underside of your saddle, making sure no nails or staples are poking through.

To check your saddle fit place the saddle on your horse without the pad, moving it into the position where it sits at home, this is an area where a saddle will rest naturally. The following are all very basic guidelines on saddle fitting, but will get you started in the right direction.

You should be able to get a minimum of 2 fingers between the top of the withers and the gullet of the saddle. If it does not do that your saddle immediately fails and does not fit your horse, you don't need to go any further.

Next, check the front of the saddle where it comes in contact with the shoulders. The front of the saddle that fits over the shoulder

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blade should not interfere with the free movement of the shoulder. This fit can vary so much with each individual horse that to even give guidelines is chancey and I really do recommend the use of a professional in this area of saddle fitting. If the saddle is hitting the shoulder blade when the horse is moving it is causing discomfort and hindering movement.

With one hand apply pressure to the middle of the saddle seat and slide the other under the saddle towards the backbone. If there is a space or bridging there it is going to cause pressure points to the front and the rear of the saddle, and again, discomfort to the horse is the outcome.

We also want to make sure that the skir,t or very back of the saddle, does not go past the pivot point on the hip of the horse where the lower back and hip meet. This inhibits freedom of movement and again causes discomfort.

I realize that not everyone can afford to run out and buy a new saddle, but keep in mind that ill fitting equipment leads to wrecks and what the cost could amount to for a week or month in the hospital, plus the pain and discouragement. A new saddle would be much cheaper.

If you are unsure of what bit is correct, what pad to use and if your saddle fits, or what equipment you need period, there are professional qualified people in every area of the country that would gladly check your equipment for proper fit for the comfort of the horse.

It may not be free, but it will be well worth the cost.

I also have become a real advocate of chiropractic care and regular dental care for the horse. In the area we live in I recommend Kyla Awes, http://www.drkyla.com. for chiropractic care. In whatever area you live in there will be qualified people and you need to check around and ask for recommendations.

If you have questions, call or set up an appointment for a complete equipment fitting session or a seminar if you have a group that is interested. We want you to be knowledgeable and stay safe.

God Bless and happy trails!

Dennis Auslam of Redwood Stables in Morton, MN trains both the horse and the rider through lessons and clinics. He runs a regular schedule of clinics for Confidence Building, Horsemanship and Cattle Work, including Roping Clinics and has recently added a Challenge Trail Course to his facility.

Call 507-430-0342 or email him at redwoodstables@mvtvwireless.com You can visit his website at www.redwoodstables.com for more information on upcoming clinics and other event listings where Dennis will be doing demos and clinics.

August 09

midwest horse digest

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August 09

Communicating with Your Aids— Keys to Success, Part 10,

Bending & Turning Aids

by Lynn Palm responsibility to anticipate this and know how to correct it using the turning aids.

The goal for both the bending and turning aids is to control the horse’s body position and his balance. In this article, I will use a circle pattern to demonstrate how to correct the two most common problems that occur when trying to keep a horse straight through a turn—the problems called falling out and falling in. Many horses have a natural tendency to fall out or fall in when turning.

It may be more of an issue when turning in one direction and not so evident when turning in the other direction. It is the rider’s

Correcting Falling Out Start at the walk and prepare to bring the horse onto a large circle to the right. Always keep in mind this “golden rule” of riding—to turn correctly, the rider must get the horse bending correctly first. Before the turn, bend the horse using the bending aids (the inside leg and open inside rein) while supporting the bend with the outside leg slightly further back on the horse’s barrel than the inside leg. Also support the bend by using an indirect rein against the neck to position the horse. Use the turning aids, the outside leg and outside

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indirect rein, to direct him through the turn and then follow the circle.

If the horse travels too far off the curve and drifts to the outside (in this example to the right) as he is turning, he is falling out.

He has lost the proper bend in his body. His head has gone too far to the right while his shoulders and hindquarters have left the arc of the circle to the outside (to the left).To correct this, use the left leg to bring the body and hips back to the circle. Use the left rein to bring his shoulders back to the right and onto the circle and to straighten his head and neck from being too far to the right. You still have to support the horse bending right with the right leg and open right rein. Maintain the direction using the bending aids, supporting them by actively using the turning aids.

Change directions through the middle of the circle, and do this exercise to the left. Use the bending aids (the inside leg and open inside rein), and support the bend with the outside leg and outside indirect rein against the neck. Use the turning aids to ask for the change in direction at the same time properly bending the horse to follow the arc of the turn.

If the horse falls out in this direction, use the right leg and right rein to correct the problem. To maintain the balance of the horse going to the left, keep the bending aids active (left leg and left rein), and more actively use the turning aids (the right leg and right indirect rein).

Once you have practiced controlling falling out on the circle at the walk, do the exercise at the trot. The bending and turning aids will be applied in the same manner as at the walk. Keep the horse forward at the trot with the inside leg, and use it as the primary bending aid. The inside rein flexes the head inward while the outside leg and rein are the primary aids to keep the horse turning. If he falls out in either direction, use the outside leg and direct outside rein to bring him back onto the circle’s arc. Maintain the bend of the horse with the inside leg and inside rein.

The key to the success of controlling the horse’s balance from falling out is to recognize where it is happening on the circle. Most commonly, a horse falls out as he is going away from a gate, barn, or his pasture or paddock. The rider needs to anticipate this. It is a natural tendency for every horse because his herd instinct encourages it. If the horse does fall out, remind yourself to turn sooner, before the point where he tends to fall out, when you do the next circle.

August 09

midwest horse digest

Correcting Falling In Falling in is much like if you were to stumble and almost fall. The horse quickens his steps to catch his balance as you would if you tripped. Falling in may present itself as the horse dropping the inside shoulder in a turn, cutting the corner or squaring the corner, or making a turn smaller as a result of not bending while turning. It is the rider’s responsibility to recognize when the horse is falling in and know how to correct it using the bending aids and to make a wider turn.

I will again use the circle pattern to demonstrate how to correct falling in while bending and turning through a turn. Start at the walk and bring the horse onto a large circle to the right. Remember that to turn correctly the rider must get the horse bending correctly first.

Before the turn, bend the horse using the bending aids (the inside leg and open inside rein). At the same time, support the bend with the outside leg applied slightly farther back on the horse’s barrel than the inside leg. Use the outside indirect rein against the neck to support the flexion of the head and curve of the neck and shoulders. Use the turning aids (the outside leg and outside indirect rein) to direct the horse through the turn and then follow the circle.

If the horse is straight, the bend in his body from the poll to the tail (the horse’s spine) will conform to the same arc as that of the circle. The horse being straight while bending means the hind legs track directly into the same track as his front legs. His body alignment stays straight even while bending and turning. His head and neck stay in the middle of the shoulders while curving, and his shoulders stay in line with the hips. The hind legs are directly under the hips, and the front legs are directly under the shoulders. The hind legs track directly in the same track where the front legs take off. This is called being straight while bending.

If a horse travels too far off the curve and drifts to the inside while turning along the arc of a circle, we say he is falling in. He has lost the proper bend in his body. His head and neck are positioned too far to the outside while his shoulders and hindquarters have left the arc of the circle to the inside. The rider will notice quickness or an increase of speed because of the tripping effect. When we lose our balance, our legs quicken to regain it. The same thing happens to the horse. A horse tends to fall in when heading back to the gate or barn.

To correct falling in when on a circle to the right, use the inside leg slightly behind the girth to move the horse out toward to the left to make the circle bigger and bring his barrel and hip back onto the circle. Use the inside (right) rein, now an indirect rein against the neck, to bring his shoulders back to the left and onto the circle. Note: the rein cannot be a stronger aid than the leg because it will bend the neck and bring the head flexed inward too much.

This will cause more of the horse’s weight to be placed on his right front leg, which will swing the hips out, leading to another balance problem!

The inside leg, in this example the right leg, is the most prominent correction aid. Move the horse out with the inside leg and inside

rein. Support the horse bending right with the inside leg and indirect inside rein to move the shoulders to the left and also to not allow the neck to bend too much. Move the horse out with the inside rein and leg. The rider may also have to sue an open left rein to encourage the horse to go wide to the left while not allowing the neck to bend too much. The outside (left) leg reminds the horse to stay forward in the gait.

The turning aids, the outside rein and outside leg, are not as prominent when the horse is falling in. This is because he is already turning too fast. Use the inside aids more, and keep the horse wider on a curve so he does not turn so fast. When the rider can get the horse going wider while curving, the turning aids can be very minimal to get him to turn.

Make sure you perfect this exercise at the walk, and then move on to the trot and then the canter. If you have trouble with your aids coordination or your hands continue to take charge, go back to the slower gait and continue to work at this. Always repeat the exercise on the horse’s stiffer side at least one more time than on his better side. Repeat the direction and double the number of repetitions on the rider’s weaker side as well. By doubling up practice in the weaker direction of the horse

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and rider, both will have a greater opportunity to improve.

My visual series, Dressage Principles for the Western and English Horse and Rider will enhance this series of articles.

For more information on this and other Palm Partnership Training™ products, or information on clinics, go to www.lynnpalm.com or call us at 800-503-2824.

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August 09

the rain. If you feel The wind, rain drops, and dark clouds could confident and don’t cause your horse to spook. Protect your head mind a little mud, and wear a helmet when riding, especially head out to that arena when dealing with a new situation. and have some fun Before the show: In addition to being showing off. desensitized to rain drops on their ears, © by Jennifer Lindgren Preparing for the Rain Days: Horses horses must be comfortable with all the other are outdoor animals. They can handle poor ‘spooky’ monsters that appear at horse shows. weather and poor footing if given the With rain, there is usually wind. Blowing chance to learn how to do so. The first step banners, flags, trailer canopies, showbills, and is to turn them out. You can’t expect a horse horse blankets can all be frightening to a that never gets out of the confines of a horse. Part of your training process at home closely monitored training facility to handle should include ‘despooking’. A step beyond slippery footing. I allow my horses to go out ‘sacking out’, despooking requires that you in the rain as long as there is no chance of make items that might be scary, a normal part thunder and lightning. They love it and run of your daily routine. Some ideas: horse around like naughty children. By chasing blankets blowing as you put them on the each other and playing in the mud, they horse or on the fence, flag blowing and learn how to b alance themselves when the flapping in the wind, rain slicker tickling footing doesn’t feel secure. They also get horse’s sides, water dripping down his face, comfortable with rain drops hitting their walking through puddles. You always want to ears and face and water start slow. At home, running down their legs. hang an old blanket If the arena isn’t too or banner on the You just washed the truck and trailer. bad, I will lightly free lunge arena rail and ride Your horse is immaculate after hours of a young horse with the with it there everyprimping. You can’t wait to show off your saddle on just to get him day. If your horse new outfit. The weather has been beautiful used to the extra weight. hates water on his all week and you have a great feeling about Whenever you plan to ride face, start with a this show. There is a light rain as you drive or work a horse, I highly sponge on his to the show in the early morning. The rain recommend leg support muzzle and jowl. continues and you decide to leave the horses (wrapping, sport boots, Move up his face in the trailer until the clouds pass. You start etc.) I do not think it is safe gradually until he to wonder if you to lunge a horse isn’t bothered by should go back on a line if the water running from home or register ground is wet. Don't be afraid to turn your horse out in a light rain. his forelock. for classes. The The restriction of They will soon learn to handle rain drops, puddles At the show: Get and mud. Lindgren photo. trailers continue the line doesn’t your horse used to the to pull in slowly allow them the arena footing but don’t and it is obvious freedom to move overdue it. Ask the the show will not or adjust their leg position in show committee to allow leg support and relax be called for slippery conditions. You could easily clothing rules. (Most will comply.) Keep the rain. damage a tendon or ligament. If the horse as dry as possible between classes, You watch horse is comfortable with the rain, especially the saddle area. If you don’t want the start of the you can climb aboard and give him your hat to get wet, wear a helmet (good idea). show from the a chance to learn how to balance Pull out your old outfit or rail shirt and skip truck. Half the the added weight of you and the the colored chaps. (The dye in colored chaps halter horses in saddle. Take it slow with an easy can stain your saddle when wet.) For the the first class are Helmets are a great idea, no matter your ability schooling session and let the horse fashionistas that hate plastic hat covers, opt or age. If you choose to ride when the ground standing quietly, the is wet, your horse is at a greater risk of taking focus on how to place his feet. for a cheap western straw hat that has a hard other half are jumping a misstep or falling. Please protect yourself at Wear your rain plastic texture. Don’t all times. Lindgren photo. around and fussing. coat and cover get frustrated with Despite the drizzle, him with a blanyourself or your the Judge is smiling. He knows that this will be ket or sheet when you walk horse. Go slow, an easy day. No sunburn and half of the him back to the barn. focus on communiexhibitors will pull out. Of the half that stay and Prepare him as much as cating clearly with show, all the fancy outfits and silver saddles possible so he is completeyour horse, allow will stay in the truck and exhibitors will direct ly accustomed to your extra time for cues 100% of their attention to their horse - the way routine on a rainy day. and transitions, and it should be! Only a few horses will perform The Risks: The risk of have a little fun well in the rain and it will be very clear who has damaging a tendon or with it. done their homework. ligament is much higher Good Luck! Jennifer The decision to stay and show or head when footing is not ideal. Leg support is essential, especially in an arena with Lindgren has been an back home depends entirely upon your Always check the arena slippery footing. Hang banners, flags, and blankets All-Breed Judge since on the rail at home so your horse isn't surprised preparation. Success on a rainy day or in a before you go in. Please don’t 1985. She is an expewhen he sees them at a show. muddy arena is directly related to the level of overwork a horse in the mud. rienced competitor Lindgren photo. trust, communication, and training you have Just like when you walk who has earned developed with your horse. The rain, the poor through deep mud, it is hard to pull your foot Regional and National awards in Halter, footing, and change in barometric pressure will out. Horse’s throw shoes more often when it is Western Equitation and Hunter. She loves all compound the distractions your horse already muddy. If your horse is overdue for a reset, breeds of horses and keeps her private faces at a show. If you haven’t already taught the mud is a very bad idea. There are risks collection in Grant Park, IL. contact: him to tune it all out and just listen to you, you for you too. As a flight animal, a horse’ first jenlind222msn.com should just head back home and school him in reaction is to flee from frightening situations. copyright 2009 by Jennifer Lndgren

Want To W in: in

Rain or Shine?

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August 09

midwest horse digest

Equine-Assisted Learning

by Janet Hagen Many of you will be familiar with therapeutic riding, also termed hippotherapy, where people with physical and other disabilities ride horses for the physical benefits of riding which include: flexibility, range of motion, strengthening of muscle groups and self-confidence. You might not be as familiar with new types of programs, termed equineassisted therapy, that utilize the horses herd behavior and prey status to help humans emotionally. The Chaps program has had almost unbelievable success with suicidal and "cutting" adolescent girls. Based in Shioctin, Wisconsin in the first two years of operation, girls who had been hospitalized at least 4 times (think about that 4 times!) in the previous year for suicide attempts received equineassisted therapy facilitated by a licensed therapist. In a two year follow-up none of the girls had been: hospitalized for a suicide attempt, had only minimal legal involvement and none were pregnant.

Any horseman or woman knows the power of the horse to heal, to take emotions and just release them. Their calming nature is

well-understood. Many of us know what our horses have taught us about self-confidence, standing up for ourselves, or just doing what is right. There is a new form of experiential learning (meaning learning through doing - not reading a book) that uses that ability of horses to teach. It is called equine-assisted learning or equine-assisted human development and again uses the horses herd behavior and prey status to help people learn about themselves and each other.

Typically in this kind of program, horses meander freely through an arena while humans work individually or in teams to solve problem-situations that are designed to mimic problem-situations in personally or professionally. Communication, negotiationskills, creativity, patience, discipline, setting appropriate boundaries and self-confidence are the types of skills that are readily taught.

I believe that there are many well-adjusted, caring horsemen and women who, with a little training, can help other people via equine-assisted learning. I have had several groups out for the training, most of them

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experienced horsemen and women, and found that they go out and do wonderful things for the people in their community. Some of the kinds of things that they do with their horses, once they have the skills, is to: develop team building programs for corporate groups, work with people who have been abused, develop leadership in adults, teens and children, empower people and families to act in their own best interests, and help people heal from trauma. It is important to note that this type of work is not "counseling" but rather supporting the interaction with the human and horse in such a way as to provide growth.

Oddly enough, there is very little riding involved.

Equine-assisted learning is a wonderful opportunity for horsemen and women to help others benefit as we have from the wisdom of the horse. At Pegasus we say, "the power of the horse is the herd....the power of the herd is the horse."

Janet W. Hagen, Ph.D. is President of Pegasus Leadership Consultants, based in Appleton Wisconsin, Contact her for more information on upcoming Pegasus Approach© certification trainings or to host a training in your area. pegasusleaders.com, 920.420.3825, pegasusleaders@yahoo.com.

New Premiere Signature Class for the 2009 The 2009 Reichert Reichert Celebration do with creating The Celebration introduced a Reichert Celebration,”

Midwest Horse Digest offers you the best advertising opportunities in the Midwest.

Best Coverage and a ton of editorial that helps you get your message seen!

As horse owners ourselves we are committed to helping the horse industry grow!

new class for this year, the Novice 3 Year Old Non Pro Western Pleasure Premiere Signature Class. The class, open to Non Pro Riders on Novice Horses who have earned less than $1,000, joins the other seven Premiere Signature Classes that have made The Reichert Celebration the hugely popular summer futurity show that it has become in its ten years.

Bonus money will be paid to the highest placing Limited Non Pro Rider not in the Top Five.

This class has a new special meaning attached to it. We are proud to announce that the Ron Reichert Memorial Novice 3 Year Old Western Pleasure Premiere Signature Class will be presented by Gerri Leigh Pratt. Pratt came forward to sponsor the class, in memory of the patriarch of the Reichert Family and founder of the Celebration, who passed away April 16, 2009.

“Ron was such a special person had so much to

In print and online, free color and now glossy too!

For advertising information please contact us: Mark or Peg Bahls 507-943-3355 mark@horsedigests.com peg@horsedigests.com or Rick or Julie Vinsand julie@horsedigests.com rick@horsedigests.com 888-517-0397 or 877-205-7261 www.horsedigests.com

said Pratt. “I think he needs to be remembered and this seemed like a nice way to do it. This was his favorite class and it’s a great class for the industry. This new class brings something fresh.”

Gerri Leigh Pratt is primarily known for her Halter World and Congress Champion Horses although she has a deep appreciation for the performance horses as well. She has been a support of The Reichert Celebration for many years, as an exhibitor, owner and sponsor.

The Ron Reichert Memorial Novice 3 Year Old Non Pro Western Pleasure Premiere Signature Class will be held Thursday, August 13 during The Reichert Celebration in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Pratt will be there to enjoy the class and personally congratulate the winner – “Good Lord willing and the creek don’t rise.”

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Saddling for the first time…

Ruby, Ruby, Ruby will you be mine? don’t try and force Ruby to stand still or tie her up. She knows that if it’s too much for her, she can leave or get away.

With the previous training I have done, she shouldn’t be dragging me around. She should be just trotting a circle around me. I repeat this process until she lets me touch her in the neck and shoulders with the blanket.

I then slowly work the blanket back keeping contact with her so she knows where it is at all times. I repeat this process with both sides, then

by

you can do to prevent a wreck or bad experience will greatly be worth your effort. We only get one fIrst time to start a colt and, right or wrong, it will stay with them forever. If you have a nice colt and are taking the time to start it right, the p r o c e s s should be slow paced and, for a non-horse person, almost boring.

After I have cinched up the colt, I ask her to move out and lounge around me. If Ruby starts to buck or run, I try to hang onto the

Monty Bruce

In last month’s issue we covered the groundwork and preparation for the first ride.

Now we have laid the groundwork on our green horse. Ruby knows about pressure and release of pressure, how to give her head, bend and flex and is now ready for the saddle and first ride.

If I have done my homework with some of the exercises we have done in our earlier lessons, my green horse should stand quietly next to me out in the middle of the round pen.

Ruby has learned not to pull on the head rope away from me and not to crowd or walk on me. The first step we take is to get the colt to accept the saddle blanket or pad.

Holding the lead rope in my left hand, with my right hand I slowly bring the blanket up so Ruby can see and smell it, giving her time to check it out. If the sight of that is more than she can handle and she wants to leave, I let her leave. Always remember, don’t put any more pressure on them than they can handle. If we do, that’s when bad experiences happen.

I bring the blanket up to her again. I

with the saddle.

By giving her room to leave if she wants to, it keeps her more relaxed because she knows if its too much she can leave. When she does stand still while I move the blanket around on her, I know she has accepted it and is comfortable with that step. Then we can move on. Again, remember training is a step by step process and it is our job to make sure our horses accept and understand what we are presenting to them.

When working up close to or around a colt you want to move quietly and smoothly at first. I also try to keep my left hand, with the rope in it, placed on the neck or shoulder while I’m saddling or working closely with the colt. I do this for two reasons. First, you will be able to feel them when they tense up or if something is bothering them. Secondly, if something is bothering them and they should happen to jump your way, you can safely push yourself away.

Once I have the saddle on their back, I slowly reach under and get my cinch.

I want to take at least two wraps with my cinch strap before I pull it up so if she jumps a bit, it should still hold.

Also, if I can have her stepping or moving it seems to help take the surprise out of it. I also like to have a breast collar on my colts and get that fastened as soon as I can to prevent the saddle from rolling on them. Anything

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August 09

rope. It gives her a bit of security and I can bring her down under control much quicker than if she were loose. When she is relaxed, then go through all the rope halter exercises we talked about earlier.

Flexing, bending and softening her with the saddle on.

Then I do more sacking exercises by taking the stirrups and slapping the center of the saddle.

I’ll take a hold of the horn shaking the saddle so they get used to movement and noise.

The next thing I do is prepare her for mounting. I like to do what I call “checking” her.

I take hold of the halter right by the jaw and bend her around me. This gives me control, and I can tell what she is going to do if I have a hold of her head. I put my foot in the stirrup and my right hand on the saddle horn. If she is

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midwest horse digest

still quiet, I will hop up and down on the one foot. If she moves, I let her, but I try to keep my foot in the stirrup because I have her head bent around me.

She will just make a tight circle around me. I do this with both sides. then I slowly raise myself up and lay across the saddle, keeping both legs on one side so if she reacts negatively, I can quickly and easily get off and away from her. I have done this several times and she is standing quietly.

She is now ready for her first ride. If the colt has been quiet and handled everything well, I would go ahead and get on. If she was a little broncy or very nervous, I might wait one more day and repeat the process before the first ride; I want the first ride to be very quiet and uneventful.

I have hold of Ruby's head and my foot is in the stirrup. I take a couple of hops so she feels movement and I don't take her by surprise. When I mount completely on a green horse I move quickly, but softly, and get my seat. I'll pet her and try to relax for a second.

Then I want to get her moving as soon as possible to relax and soften her. The first few steps can sometimes be the toughest for the horse and rider because neither know what to expect.

At this point, I still have a rope halter on her or a side pull on her head. I gently start pulling her head around, encouraging her to take a step. I will cluck and softly move my legs to get her started moving. When she starts to move, I just want to sit still and leave her alone. I want to make this real simple for her.

I don't try to guide her or anything else on the first ride. I want her to accept me on her b a c k .

Remember to sit right in the middle and hold on to the saddle horn if n e e d e d .

Nothing scares a colt more than when you get off balance and pull them off balance.

Feel your colt out, you have to decide what he is ready for. I like to get my colts into a trot that -first ride, if I can, but I never ask for a lope in the first couple of rides. That will

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come in time.

This should be day 3 or 5 working with our green horse, and if we did our groundwork, hopefully this was a quiet, uneventful ride that we can build on. If you have a friend to help, work together to saddle and ride the first time.

It can help keep the colt under control to have someone hold onto the line while you saddle and ride.

Remember, if you are very unsure or nervous, the horse can sense this and you may want to get help from a professional to get started. Starting your own colt can be very fun and rewarding if you have a well tempered horse. Your safety and your horse's safety are the most important thing. Also, a positive first ride for the colt is important. In the next issue we will continue the progress of training our green horse.

The only magic formula for training I can give you is T-I-M-E, along with patience, consistency, repetition and good solid training principles. I believe it is more how we approach our horses and how we apply the training information and methods that determine whether it is resistance free training or not.

Until next time, Good Luck and God Bless.

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

Happy Riding, Monty Bruce IIf you have quesitons or would like more information log onto Monty’s website at www.montybruce.com

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August 09

Sixth Annual IFSHA World and Grand Nowak of Medina, Ohio.

National Horse Show ShirleyMaster of ceremonies for the fourth October 28 – November 1, 2009 National Equestrian Centre, Lake St Louis, Missouri, USA.

Plans are well under way for the greatest celebration of the Friesian Horse in the United States this year. Now in its sixth year, this competition is being held for the third consecutive time at the National Equestrian Center in beautiful Lake St Louis, Missouri. 2004 was the inaugural year for this great event when it was held at the Industry Hill’s show grounds near Los Angeles, California. In 2005 the event was moved to the great Virginia Horse Center to give Friesian enthusiasts from the east coast their turn at exhibiting closer to home. 2006 took the event to the incredible new venue at the South Point Casino in Las Vegas. After much deliberation and input from the membership the Board of Directors of IFSHA voted to take the Finals to a centrally located facility, so more members could participate and make travel time equitable for exhibitors from both coasts. The facilities at Lake St Louis are made to order for the Friesian breed and the staff continue to help make this show both a world class champi-

onship event while keeping a more intimate, friendly and welcoming atmosphere for exhibitors, vendors, spectators and horses. A Stallion Parade and Sale Horse offering, as well as beautiful exhibition rides will be held throughout each performance.

Gareth A. Selwood has managed the event since 2006 and is aptly assisted by his favorite show secretary, Nancy Nathanson (2007 & 2008 Top Ten USEF Secretary of the Year).

New this year is a beautiful web site, specifically built for the horse show to assist exhibitors and promote the show, vendors, sponsors and the breed. Anyone can visit the new site at www.ifshaworld.com. Links are provided to affiliate organizations and sponsors as well as class lists and the officials.

Officiating this year are some of the country’s best. Carriage Driving will be decided by the Honorable Audrey Bostwick from Perkasie, PA.., with all Dressage responsibilities going to the Honorable Lois Heyerdahl of Sparta WI. Show ring classes, both halter and performance will be decided by the very capable and educated trio of the Honorable Dr. Walter de la Brosse, Los Angeles, Ca, Gary Mullen, Fulton, MO., Todd Trushel, Fairview, Pa.. Representing the best interests of the horses and exhibitors will be USEF Steward,

AHC Seeks to Document Equestrian Access less open to these traditional Issues on Public Land environment forms of use. Sometimes restrictions on The American Horse Council has launched a new effort to collect information on access issues equestrians are experiencing on federal lands. The center piece of this effort is an online form equestrians can use to report their personal experiences regarding trails and federal lands that have been closed to them or other access issues.

Americans who use horses and pack stock enjoy a unique experience when they ride on trails and public lands. It is an experience that ties them to the “pioneer” era and provides not only a way to connect with America’s vast and unique natural resources but a link with America’s history and traditions. It is an experience that cannot be enjoyed without a trail system, trailhead access and areas for camping. It is an experience that Americans enjoyed even before there was a national park system and an experience they want to continue.

Unfortunately, equestrians are seeing an increasing loss of access through trail restrictions, trail closures, and use restrictions.

Riders and stock users are being excluded from areas that they have historically traveled through and indeed first opened up. It is a loss of opportunities for riders, families, persons with disabilities, school groups and others. There seems to be a management

equestrian use are done intentionally through management plans that reduce, restrict or eliminate horses, horse facilities, camping or grazing restrictions, cross-country travel restrictions or closures. Sometimes the restrictions are indirect though a lack of trail maintenance, or over regulation, or lack of services to the public like facilities that provide saddle and pack animals or parking for horse trailers.

In order to better combat this disturbing trend the AHC is asking equestrians to document examples of trails or entire areas that have been closed to equestrians on federal land (National Forest Service, National Parks Service, and Bureau of Land Management, etc). The AHC is seeking all relevant information concerning these closures such as the reason for the loss of access, details concerning any public process that was involved and the history of equestrian use on the closed trail or area.

The AHC is also interested in examples of attempts to bar equestrian access that have been defeated.

“The reduction of trails, trail heads and the closure of public lands to horses and pack animals is a continuing problem for equestrians. However, there is no centralized, comprehensive database that documents any

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year will be Doug Shane of Colorado with his magic box of music and great sense of humor, adding to the festive occasion.

Sandy Jacob of Edgerton, WI. has volunteered to assist all the vendors with their needs and can be reached at sandy@jacobhomes.net. IFSHA president and founding member Tammy Hildreth is organizing a stallion service auction of some of the best Friesian Sires available to help raise funds for the World Show and can be reached at thefishdoc@aol.com. Friesian trainer, Cassandra Adams will be in charge of all exhibitions and should be contacted as soon as possible by anyone wishing to participate at dexbacon@yahoo.com. A beautiful Souvenir Show Program will be available at the show and mailed to all IFSHA members. Advertising opportunities are still available with a space reservation deadline of August 15, 2009. For prices and reservations please contact our publisher Rahn Greimann at ifsha@horsedigests.com. Any horse show questions should be directed to Nancy Nathanson at thepark@hwy246.net. Sponsors, Patron and any and all other inquiries are best answered

by Show Manager Gareth A. Selwood at selwoodp@idcnet.com.

Please make plans to visit our great show and celebrate the Friesian Horse when we meet….in Lake St. Louis! loss of access and even fewer specific examples,” said AHC President Jay Hickey.

“We hope by giving equestrians a place to report their experiences we can get a better picture of the problem and use that information to fix it.”

The AHC is asking all recreational riders to visit the AHC website and report any access issues they have had using this electronic form https://www.horsecouncil.org/survey.php. This will be a permanent feature of the AHC website.

“The AHC is committed to preserving equine access to public lands. It is very important for these efforts that we have evidence that demonstrates the extent of the problem and the need for action on the part of Congress or the federal land agencies,” said Hickey.

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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midwest horse digest

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Chicago Equestrians for a Cause Hosting and Producing the 2009 $25,000 Chicago Hunter Derby

Chicago Equestrians for a Cause is pleased to announce that they are hosting and producing the 2009 $25,000 Chicago Hunter Derby, which will be held on August 30, 2009, at the Annali Farm in Antioch, IL. The net proceeds will benefit The Children's Memorial Hospital in Chicago, IL. The Chicago Hunter Derby is a series event for the Chronicle of the Horse/USHJA International Hunter Derby Finals.

Following in the footsteps of the hunter derby held at the Evergreen Invitational last year, the Chicago Hunter Derby hopes to raise even more money for Chicago Equestrians for a Cause, a philanthropic group that donates money earned for many significant charities, including the Children's Memorial Hospital.

This year, the group aims help with increased proceeds thanks to the hunter derby's new location and management.

Local Chicago trainers Caroline Weeden and Lynn Jayne are on the advisory board of the Chicago Equestrians for a Cause, while Karen Lackenger serves as the Chairman.

Bobby Murphy of Kentucky Horse Shows LLC will be managing the show as well as designing the derby course. The hunter derby will be held in the in-field of an old steeplechase track with a beautiful pond in the background, adding to the unique history and atmosphere of the setting. This occasion promises to be one of the most prestigious hunter derbies in the country, and it will be a weekend full of fun events for hunter enthusiasts.

Murphy noted, "It's not just a Hunter Derby class with jumps that resemble the grass roots; it's a Hunter Derby Day, and is one of a kind. It will be a day that sets a new bar for the individual derby events. We are going to truly give everyone an experience of a lifetime."

The Chicago Hunter Derby features incredible sponsorship, amazing prizes, top riders and horses, and a very impressive roster of judges, all of which will be announced soon.

For more information on the 2009 $25,000 Chicago Hunter Derby, please contact Bobby Murphy by emailing bobbymurphy1@gmail.com or calling 859-229-7323.

August 09

Equestrian Landowners Affected by New Property Tax Legislation A new law was passed during the last legislative session that compels the S t a t e Department of Revenue to study the property tax treatment of properties used for horse boarding or horse breeding, and which provides an early appeal option for those landowners whose agricultural classification has changed for the 2009 assessment year but whose use of the land has remained the same. The new law can be found in 2009 Session Laws, Chapter 88, Article I, Section 47 at the State’s web site: https://www.revisor.leg.state.mn.us/pubs/ There was an unprecedented amount of legislative activity surrounding horse breeding and boarding operations at the Capitol during the last session. A growing number of county tax assessors are interpreting Minnesota’s property tax statute to disqualify equestrian properties from agricultural classification and changing them from agricultural to commercial, residential, or rural/vacant land, despite no change in the law and no change in land use. There is statewide inconsistency and confusion over the definition of “agricultural products” and equestrian properties’ eligibility for agricultural classification in the property tax statute, Chapter 273.13 Subd. 23 of Minnesota Statutes.

The increase in property taxes can be significant. In Washington County, a decision to revoke agricultural classification for hundreds of properties in 2009 resulted in thousands of dollars in tax increases for some taxpayers. Although the County has apparently decided to suspend re-classification for 29 equestrian properties because of uncertainty about statutory interpretation, many other properties are faced with sudden and unforeseen tax increases.

An appeal pending in Minnesota Tax Court, Sommerdorf v. County of Sherburne,

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may provide guidance on the question of whether pasture is forage that qualifies a horse boarding property for agricultural classification under current law. Meanwhile, taxpayers concerned by the sudden tax increase had bills introduced during last session that would have protected agricultural classification for horse boarding properties.

The legislature determined that the best course of action would be to delay any immediate action and instead passed a law that requires the Commissioner of Revenue to undertake a study of the treatment of properties used for horse breeding and boarding activities for property tax purposes.

This study will examine the current treatment of these properties and will result in a report providing recommendations for potential changes to law.

In order to quell numerous taxpayer and assessor concerns, the new law also provides for an appeal option for taxpayers for the 2009 assessment year only for taxpayers with property used for horse breeding or boarding activities if the property was classified as agricultural for the 2008 assessment. If the use between 2008 and 2009 assessments did not substantially change, but the classification was changed, the taxpayer may appeal in writing to the Commissioner of Revenue before September 1, 2009. Taxpayers who do not appeal under this new law must follow ordinary appeal procedures, with a deadline of April 30, 2010 to file an appeal in Minnesota Tax Court only after 2009 property taxes due have been paid in full.

If you have questions concerning the early appeal, you may email the Department of Revenue at proptax.questions@state.mn.us.

Allison F. Eklund is a Twin Cities attorney representing and consulting with equine businesses, property owners, and nonprofit organizations in matters including land use, property tax appeals, business litigation, and legislative remedies. She is currently working on a property tax reform initiative to protect agricultural classification for equestrian landowners.

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midwest horse digest

Equine Extremist to steal the show at this year’s Red Horse Ranch PRCA Rodeo It’s family entertainment at its best. The 5th annual PRCA RODEO is coming to the RED HORSE RANCH in Fergus Falls, August 13th, 14th and 15th. Fans can expect the unexpected as the country’s best rodeo athletes compete for top prizes.

In addition to the regular features of bareback and saddle bronc riding, steer wrestling, calf roping, barrel racing and bull riding, the Red Horse Ranch Arena is bringing in one of the country’s most sought after equine entertainers.

Tommie Turvey, Jr. is an “Equine Extremist” that is sure to keep spectators on the edge of their seats.

Tommie is a second-generation horse trainer, raised on a paint horse ranch in California.

Tommie has been breaking and training horses and performing on horseback since he was two years old and performs at horse expos, rodeos, fairs, on television and at numerous equestrian events around the world. His routine showcases his superb horsemanship with roman riding, bridle-less riding, stunts and comedy antics you will always remember. His partners and traveling companions are his prized paint horses. Tommie proclaims “If you can get a horse to trust you, you can get a horse to do anything you can think of.” Tommie will be the featured specialty act for all three performances.

Three big evenings of non-stop action will begin at 8:00 pm nightly with gates opening at 5:30 pm. The public is invited to come early to enjoy delicious food concessions, beer gardens and a variety of vendors.

Bring a blanket or a lawn chair and sit hillside or in the bleacher sections – there isn’t a bad seat in the house!

Everyone is invited to dance to Silverado each night following the rodeo, included with your rodeo ticket.

New this year – the RHRA also has commemorative rodeo t-shirts; however quantities are limited so stop by soon to get yours! The 2009 PRCA RODEO is brought to you in part by Viking Coca Cola, Frontier Powersports, Nelson Auto Center, Wild 104.1, Lake Region Hospital Foundation, KVRR FOX TV, Hexum Building Corporation, Signworks, Bobcat of Otter Tail County and many other community partners.

Tickets are on sale now at RHRA, BJ’s, Olson Oil, online or at the gate.

More information can be found at www.RedHorseRanchArena.com. Experience the sport of our American heritage!

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midwest horse digest you’ve never experienced moving your horse’s hip. Best that you start out on the ground in an arena or small paddock. Begin teaching your horse to move (aka yielding) his hips to each side. First from body pressure and then connect it to the halter lead which will become the rein when you are using a bridle. Then repeat the lesson outside the arena on an area where you are standing slightly uphill of your horse and ask him to yield his hip away, but down the slight slope. If you’re successful at doing that go back to the arena and try it while riding. Remember, you can always work on the trail both on the ground as well as riding. So if your When the hip yields TJ confidence is less immediately releases the rein… than it needs to be…always remember to work WHERE you are comfortable! I t’s always better to be on the ground wishing you were riding than to be riding wishing you were on the ground.

Hills don’t have to be steep, even a gradual hill will help a lazy or lethargic horse yield his hip better. That’s because the earth’s gravitational pull will help move the hip. Wow, God was once again thinking of us horse trainers? As I mentioned in the beginning of this article, a pliable hip will soften the horse up in the bridle. When this happens the brace comes out of his body, which includes his feet, freeing them up and making him become more willing to respond to our leg cue for energy.

We can call that engagement!

You might now be thinking, “I don’t have a clue what she is talking about! Hip… pliable…??” First we need a basic understanding of what it feels like when the hip moves and when it moves easily and is pliable, then later we can figure out what to do with it!

First you will want to read and practice the lesson and then you can use my secret “Pliability Test” to rate how well your horses hip moves.

The riding lesson: Find a slight slope. Walk down the slope, holding one hand in the middle of the rein, reach your free hand forward and take the slack out of one rein. Before you get to the bottom of the slope look at his hip and ask your horse to yield his hip to the side. It is very possible that the horse will be facing up hill when he yields his hip. It is also possible that he might have to turn more than once before he actually yields his hip. Because of this, make sure that the hill you choose to use has good footing and isn’t too steep or too flat and is long enough that it helps in your lesson.

Tip: If you are having trouble feeling your horse’s legs, have a friend watch them. Have them concentrate on the rein side of the horse. If the rider picks up the right rein, the hip should move away and downhill from the rein, the right hind should cross in front of

Terrain Training!

by Tracy Porter Got slopes and hills? Bushes, ditches, dense brush? Creek or a pond? Trails thru the woods, long grass or a sandy beach? Start thinking how you can use your terrain and basic maneuvers you already are using to improve your ride!

The goal to achieve is “connection, collection, engagement and impulsion”. Although this concept does have concrete rules, knowing when, where and how to use them is based on feel.and there is no exact time frame known! Everything about it is a variable. Like people, no two horses are alike and that means figuring out where to go and learning how to get there takes a lot of time, effort and quite honestly…blind faith that the answer is there and it will begin to come together. For most of us…we are busy and just want to ride.

Tomorrow seems like a great time to catch up on what we don’t want to do today!

Why would anyone NOT want a better ride with his or her horse? I suspect it’s because most riders aren’t fully grasping the concept of the hips lateral movement and a basic give from the bridle rein let alone making the jump to how those concepts relate to making a good bridle horse!

Taking my theory deeper, the horse’s response to our request is feel. When the answer is based solely on what it feels like…not on what it looks like. That means that we have to have an opinion or make a judgment of the answer that the horse is giving us! We have to develop a sense FOR FEEL. The hip is probably the most underrated tool that can be

Starting down the hill, left hand in the middle, right hand reaching for the rein.

used to soften a horse up into the bridle. I’m being Slightly bend your horses head completely honto the right, look at your est and don’t to horse’s hip and put a tiny lift on the rein. mean to hurt anyone’s feelings when I say that I think that many riders are delusional when it comes to what they think they are accomplishing and what is actually happening in this basic movement of the hip!

When someone doesn’t understand the basics I can’t imagine them making the jump into the realm of true collection. Perhaps

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August 09

the left hind foot. The right front hoof should pivot, not walk forward or backward. At first, look for the hinds and as you practice the front will come as the horse learns to balance.

Once your horse yields his hip to the rein RELEASE IT. That means fully drop it and swap your hands, so your new hand is repositioned on the middle of the rein so you can pick up the other rein. First you will just direct him back down the slope because he is most likely going to be facing up hill. Then after he walks a step or two, look at the new hip and with the rein already in your hand, ask it to yield. Again, once he does, release that rein, switch hands and again straighten him back down the hill and repeat. As you practice you’ll find that he needs to move less to yield the hip. Eventually he’ll begin to yield his hip under while facing forward.

You’ll feel his hind feet right under your body and it will feel like he is self braking! Soon, on two

…and changes his grip, first asking Caz to walk out in a new direction…

loose reins, you will barely have to touch the rein and feel him stopping squarely under you while he is still heading downhill, soon you can feel him crawl under- …then while on the same asks the hip to yield neath you! Now that rein, left. Notice the hip startis really cool! Then ing to move and the left the seat cue is the front foot planting for a pivot? This is all you only thing left to add need from your horse… once he is in the bridle and balanced.

Then you will find it so easy to get him to start to respond to just the shift of your body!!!

Tip: If you want to feel what your horse is feeling both when he is out of control and rushing and later in control and crawling. Walk up a steep hill. As you start walking down, lean forward and let gravity pull you.

You’ll feel your …Release, reposition on the legs going faster right rein and walk out in a direction then repeat and faster….like new again on right side! an out of control pedal car.

Depending on the length of the hill, you might find your ffeet moving faster than you like. The same happens to your horse. Why? Because he has us sitting on the weakest area of his body, his back and has to learn how to rebalance himself!

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midwest horse digest

To feel how he finds his balance, go down the hill a second time, keep your shoulders back and slow or stop with each step. This is what your horse learns when he gets his READY TO ADVANCE! After a bit your horse will begin to get his hip under, his head will relax and his shoulders soften.

Then you are ready to crawl down the hill on both reins!

ADVANCED! Inching down the hill, left rein is active to hip

rear under himself as he walks down a slope!

You will find this lesson will teach a horse to balance himself and not rush while going down a hill. This will enable you to have better control over where he places his feet and how fast or slow you want him to go. In the future you may want to teach your horse to ride on a loose rein, develop a good stop. It is the beginning of canter transitions,correct ADVANCED! leads and haunches in.

Another shot of Tip: My Simple crawling or inching down the hill.

Pliability Test: rating your horse’s hip.

Progress thru the following TERRAIN: Flat, Slight decline, Gradual Slope Use the above LESSON to ask your horse to yield his hip.

At each level RATE it before progressing to the next level.

RATING: For each terrain area did the hip move easily from your request?

You are looking for: Little or no front-end movement. As the horse advances, the same rein front leg (ie: right rein and right front leg) will pivot quietly and eventually become more of a hesitation or pause as the hip shifts If the front legs are walking or scrambling, or if the rear is pivoting and the front is flying around them then you’ve got some work ahead of you.

No backward movement, that means the rein side hind leg is stepping in front of the other hind leg. Remember though as the horse progresses you will be able to ask for crossing and other times ask for a small, well thought out step from your horse. This indicates that your horse is stepping up underneath and probably ready to move on!

Resistance or lack of movement.That means that your horse is barely willing to move. If you wonder about this…just ask for more steps or energy. An unwilling horse will

not readily adjust to your request of a small-refined step and then a more generous step.

On the steeper slope…you didn’t end up facing up hill or had to wait 3 revolutions. Instead you barely moved off center and you could quietly change reins and repeat on the other hip.

If it felt pretty good then it was pliable and you are probably on the right track!

If it didn’t move easily or you were spinning out of control then you need to practice it more. Remember that gravity will help you when you have a slope, but don’t look for the snowy river slide just yet! Find something that helps you enough without hindering you…you

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can always do the big hill later!

Just keep practicing, it really doesn’t matter why your horse isn’t good at moving his hip, it could be lack of understanding, balance or confidence, you both just need to practice.

Have fun and hope to see you next time smiling down the YEAH! TJ is really looking trail! If you are looking for at Caz’s hip spot. help you can find Tracy When you look and TJ Clibborn in Milton directly at the inside hip bone, Wisconsin where they you will naturally teach ordinary people unweight your and their horses to do outside hip. This opens up a place ExtraOrdinary things! For for the horse to more information visit step into! their websites www.Tracy-Porter.net and www.TJClibborn.com Caz is not centered, he is falling to the left and going to walk a turn (some horses scramble around in a circle) instead of yielding his hip. TJ’s eyes are looking down at Caz’s head helping him mess up the manuever.

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“Green on Green makes black and blue” Selecting the Right Horse BY

CRAIG CAMERON

ly, go back to see him more than one time. You might even show up unexpectedly.

Watch the way the horse is saddled and unsaddled and how he takes to being handled in general. You can watch him at liberty in a round pen or an arena. Make sure he’s everything you want him to be. But remember, pretty is as pretty does.

Buyer Beware W h e n If you’re a novice or green rider, one of he best ways to buy checking out a a horse is with the help and advice prospective of an experienced horseperson. horse, here are some things to I think it’s important in any relationship, watch for right off the bat. They’re red flags, whether it’s business, marriage or buying a things you should notice and consider before new horse, that you have the right partner. plunking down any hard cash.

When you select a horse for yourself, take Does the horse lead you instead of the your time, don’t get in a hurry. It’s like buying a other way around? Does he respect your percar. You wouldn’t run out and buy the first one sonal space, or does he walk all over you? you drive. You’d test-drive lots of them. Be will- Horses that do this have no respect for people ing to search and find the best horse for your- and probably won’t ride much better either. self. If you’re inexperienced, get a professionWatch the horse’s attitude toward people. al or experienced horseperson to go with you He might not like people. When you approach and help. him, he should face you, not turn his hindquarA lot depends on what you want to do ters to you out of disrespect. Or he might pick with the horse. Do you want a good trail horse his head straight up, pin his ears and not want or do you want a show-ring performance to come to you. That might mean he’s lost his horse? Endeavor to find a horse that meets confidence somewhere along the way, and your goals. he’s wary about people. Earning his trust could Recognize what your goals are, where be a long and arduous task. you’re headed, what you’re going to do with When you mount the horse, look at his this horse. It’s not a bad idea to write down ears. Are they constantly pinned back on his what you’re looking for. And, of course, you head? That’s the sign of an angry or resentful need to stay within your budget. You might horse. Is his tail constantly swishing in agitawant to have a veterinarian perform a pre-pur- tion? He’s not happy to be ridden. Does he chase exam to make sure the horse is sound, ever relax? Is he in a hurry to leave? Do you especially if you intend to spend a lot of money have to hold him to keep him from leaving? A for the horse. horse’s first instinct in a time of trouble is to Be truthful with yourself. There’s nothing run. If your prospective horse always seems to wrong with being a green or novice rider. But be in a hurry when you’re riding him, this can be smart and find a horse that fits you. The be trouble, and you might end up “going for a worst chemistry is a green rider on a green ride.” If you pick up on the bit and his head horse. That’s not going to work. It’s a disaster goes straight up, he’s nervous about what’s waiting to happen. Remember, green on green about to happen. If you lay your legs against makes black and blue. his side, even gently, does he resent it? Or If you’re just starting out in the horse does he take off like a bullet? world, an older, experienced, gentle horse is Also, watch out for barn- and herd-sour what you need. That kind of horse will teach horses. A horse that doesn’t want to leave his you, and you’ll have lots of fun. buddies or the barn area is trouble on the hoof There are many things to look for in a and you don’t need any part of that. horse, and a lot of it is a matter of personal If you find a horse with a big engine, a lot preference. When you look at a horse serious- of go, a lot of spirit, that’s his personality; he’ll

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always be that way. There’s nothing wrong with that, just make sure you can control it.

Where to Buy a Horse One of the best ways to find a horse for yourself is to locate a reputable horse trainer in your area and have him or her help you.

They might not have a horse that fits you, but they can recommend where else to look. Look out for so-called horse traders. Some are good, but many don’t have the best reputations for being honest. They’re only in it for the money and not for you.

Also stay away from horses that have been sold many times. If they’ve gone through that many hands, there’s probably something wrong with them. It might not be obvious, but it’ll surface in time.

Auctions are a different ballgame.

They’re quick sales, and often you don’t know what you’re getting. If you do go to an auction, go to one that has a reputation for good management and selling honest, solid, horseflesh. The typical monthly horse sale at an auction barn probably is something to avoid.

You just don’t know what you’re getting into there, especially if you’re inexperienced.

If you go to a reputable sale, get there early, go back to the stalls, check out all the horses and maybe even get a chance to ride the one you’re looking at. At least be able to get into the stall and handle that horse. See what his general attitude is about people.

Have the horse trotted away and back to you to see if he’s sound. Most lameness shows up at a trot. Be ahead of the game by checking out the horses ahead of time. Don’t wait till the moment of the auction because you won’t get a chance to take a hard look at the sales horses. There are all sorts of auction trade tricks to make a horse look like something it’s not.

Your best opportunity is to buy a horse privately. That way you can return and look several times. And, of course, with a private sale you have a better opportunity and time for a thorough veterinary pre-purchase exam.

Most people really won’t give you any kind of guarantee. But if you can come back and ride the horse again and again, you’ll get a pretty good feel for the kind of horse he is and won’t need that guarantee.

Don’t forget that one of the most important things is safety. You want to be safe. You want your husband or wife to be safe, and you want your children to be safe. So after you determine that the horse you’re looking to buy is sound and he’s the horse he’s supposed to be, make sure that he’s gentle. For some reason, people think that if a horse is gentle, they won’t get a good ride. They think he won’t move out, but that’s wrong.

I’m always looking for a gentle horse.

Just because a horse is gentle doesn’t mean he won’t move out and want to go someplace.

Realize that there’s always risk around any horse, even an older, gentle one.

August 09

midwest horse digest

Buy Right As far as price goes, try to buy right. I know that in the cattle business, we’d always say: “You make money when you buy, not when you sell.” In other words, make sure the horse you’re buying is worth the money, and that you could probably sell him at a profit later if you had to.

After you buy the horse, you need to work on yourself to develop a relationship between you and your new horse. You might need to take lessons, go to clinics, watch videos, read books or magazines to become educated and hone your horsemanship skills. It takes time to develop a good relationship.

There’ll be times, though, when you find yourself stuck with the wrong horse. Despite all your efforts, you just might not have picked a good match for yourself. Don’t be afraid to sell the horse. You didn’t marry him and don’t have to keep him forever. If the horse gets you into trouble or you feel afraid riding him, get rid of

him. Owning and riding the horse should be fun for you.

Check out the tests in the “Here’s How” (below) “Basic Tests for a Sale Horse;” they list what to look for in a well-broke horse. A good horse should be able to pass these as a minimum. These are the basics and all horses should have this solid foundation in order to be considered good saddle mounts. As you get more experienced, you’ll recognize what a good horse is and that’s one that’s relaxed and confident around people and when he’s ridden.

He relates to man well and accepts training well. Stay away from horses that seem nervous, frightened, unsure or overly spirited. Don’t look for tough horses with problems. I’m not saying some of those problems can’t be fixed, but is it worth your time and effort? A good horse takes time to make, and like anything else, you get what you pay for.

Basic Tests for a Sale Horse A prospective purchase should be able to

The North Dakota Horse Park is excited to announce the launch of their newly improved website at www.hrnd.org. The North Dakota Horse Park is proud to offer great new features on the site such as streaming live video of Horse Park races, interactive horsemen’s forms and an all new online store.

The state of the art website’s beta version launched early Monday morning and already Horse Park fans are raving. “We had just put the preliminary version out and as we have so many hits this time of year, people started emailing right away telling us how much they liked it!” said General Manager Heather Benson “We’re excited to be in this partnership with Pixel Movement because as the Horse Park grows, our needs and those of our customers have grown…most times exceeding the skill level of our ‘webmaster’…ie me!” Pixel Movement offers software and web development as well as graphic design and video production services, all of which are likely to be utilized in coming months as the North Dakota Horse Park looks toward future plans that include online wagering of Horse Park races, exportation of Horse Park racing signal and future off-season events such as snowmobile racing.

The new website may be viewed at www.hrnd.org Horse Race North Dakota/North Dakota Horse Park “The mission of the Horse Race North Dakota and the North Dakota Horse Park is to develop and promote the sport of live horse racing and all equinerelated activities.”

Horse Race North Dakota, a non-profit dedicated to the development and promotion of live horse racing in North Dakota, operates a 6 week live race meet during August and September of each year. Attracting an average daily crowd of over 2500 people, the live race meet has been increasingly popular with each year of existence. Horse Race North Dakota 501(c)4 and the North Dakota Horse Park Foundation 501(c)3 work together to provide top class facilities and services to the horsemen and women of North Dakota. For more information, go to www.hrnd.org or call General Manager Heather Benson at 701-277-8027.

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pass the following tests: 1. Get caught easily.

2. Accept halter well.

3. Stand tied.

4. Have feet handled.

5. Lead well.

6. Stand still while being saddled.

7. Accept bit willingly and unbridle willingly.

8. Stand still while being mounted.

9. Longe, in a circle and over some obstacles, such as a small jump, or through a gate.

10. Trailer load.

11. Walk, trot, lope and back reasonably well. Doesn’t have to be a big stopper like a reiner, but must respond to basic cues.

12. Be level-headed — physically, mentally and emotionally Get Craig’s book and www.CraigCameron.com

DVd’s

at

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midwest horse digest

EquineCentral

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August 09

The perfect place to advertise your Stable, Training Facility, Events, Stallions and more...

August 09

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35

What is the National Versatility Ranch Horse Association?

There’s a new baby in the family of horse associations! Everyone say hello to the National Versatility Ranch Horse Association.

The organization was founded in December, 2007, out of Colorado Springs and is now in 19 states just a year and a half into the program!

Luckily, Minnesota is one of those states who has dived head first into making the NVRHA a reality here in the Midwest.

The NVRHA‘s focus is on the amateur use of the American Ranch Horse (any breed is welcome), performing the events established by the AQHA, in a fun, exciting, and educational way. The events; Ranch Trail, Ranch Riding, Ranch Cutting, Working Ranch Horse, and Ranch Conformation are focused on education, improving the skills of both horse and rider. The NVRHA can also serve as a “ramp up” for amateurs wishing to compete in any Versatility Ranch Horse Special Event or AQHA. For others, it will provide competitions in which they can enjoy riding the event in a more stress free environment. Regardless of the rider level, the event’s primary focus will be the education and enjoyment of the adventure.

The events always include at least a oneday clinic, followed by a schooling competition, taught by clinicians who are top in their field, whether it be cattle work, reining, trail, or roping. There are four divisions: youth, novice, intermediate, and advanced. The more advanced riders will be able to practice the

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various Ranch Horse events focusing on excellence achievement and can earn points toward Ranch Horse Champion, Ranch Horse Performance Champion, and Ranch Horse Supreme Champion just as in AQHA. Here are some descriptions of the events you will learn.

Ranch Riding involves a pattern ridden individually that focuses on transitions of gaits.

Ranch Conformation is judged as a “form to function” class so your horse will be judged as to its balance and legs, however that will only be 60% of the score. The rest is determined by how the horse performs in the performance events and is factored into the overall score.

The Ranch Cutting class requires that the horse/rider team sort a specific numbered cow out of the herd and demonstrate the horse’s ability to work the cow in the center of the arena and keep it from the herd. Once the rider is satisfied that the horse has proven its cutting ability, you pen the cow which is located at the far end of the arena.

Ranch Trail is designed to show your horse’s willingness to perform several tasks that might be asked of him during the course of a normal work day on the ranch. This class consists of 10 obstacles. Three are mandatory; 1) opening, passing through and closing a gate, 2) dragging a log and 3) dismount, ground tie, drop your bridle and re-bridle, pickup all 4 feet and remount. The horse will be judged on three gaits; the walk, trot and lope

being performed between the obstacles.

Lastly, Working Ranch Horse is a class combining three functions; the reining ability, cow sense, and positioning in order to rope and stop a cow.

We have held two clinics in Minnesota with enthusiastic results! Our next clinic is August 22-23 in Belle Plaine, Minnesota. Jay and Gena Henson (Hugoton, Kansas), the most highly requested clinicians in the NVRHA, will be here to impart their knowledge and guide you through the events. "Dennis Auslam, clinician out of Morton, Minnesota, will also be there lending his expertise. Dennis is excited about the opportunities to become active with the NVRHA and his philosophy of focusing on horsemanship, communication, and cooperation with the horse will fare well with the philosophies of the NVRHA." The participants will receive a lot of personal attention as they rotate through in small groups. We would love to see you there! Go online at nvrha.org to register, get more information, and obtain directions. Just click on the state of Minnesota. To register, print off the registration, and send in your form and check to Colorado. If you can’t attend this one with your horse, please feel free to come out and watch… auditing is free!

Susan Heyvaert Minnesota NVRHA Advisor #763-479-1895

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We are excited, here at Midwest Horse Digest, to be able to bring you articles from today’s Top National and Regional Trainers and Clinicians, from a wide variety of breeds and disciplines!

Our hope is that you find it helpful, informative and entertaining and we would love to hear feedback from you, our reader!

It is our advertisers that help us bring you each and every issue and we thank them for advertising with us and ask that you support them!

Take care and May God Bless You! Email Us: Peg@horsedigests.com

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midwest horse digest

READY-TO-RIDE GUIDE ILLINOIS - Trail Rides 34 Ranch & Camp, Herod, IL. 618-264-2141 www.34ranch.com Bay Creek Wilderness Rides, Shawnee National Forest, Simpson, IL.; 618-695-2670 www.baycreekranch.com Bear Ranch Horse Camp, Eddyville, IL.; Shawnee National Forest, 618-672-4249, www.bearbranch.com Cedar Lake Ranch, LLC, Vienna, IL.; 618-695-2600, www.cedarlakeranchllc.com Circle B Ranch HOrse Camp, Eddyville, IL.; 618-672-4748, www.circlebranch.com Double M Campground, Junction, IL.; 618-275-4440, www.doublemcampground.com Jim Edgar Panther Creek, IL.; 217-452-7741 Little Lusk Trail Lodge, Harrisburg, IL.; 618-672-4303 One Horse Gap Trail Ride,

New Hope Hill, IL.; 618-264-7433, www.onehorsegap.com Riding Vacations 34 Ranch & Camp, Herod, IL. 618-264-2141 www.34ranch.com Hayes Canyon Campground, Eddyville, IL.; 618-672-4751 www.hayescanyon.com Overnight Stabling 34 Ranch & Camp, Herod, IL. 618-264-2141, www.34ranch.com Public Lands Argle Lake State Park, Colchester, IL.; 309-776-3422 Big River State Forest, Keithsburg, IL.; 309-374-2496 Chain Lakes State Park, Spring Grove, IL.; 847-587-5512 Clinton Lake State Recreation Area, DeWitt, IL.; 217-935-8722 Fox Ridge State Park, Charleston, IL. 217-345-6416 Giant CityState Park, Makanda, IL.; 618-457-4836 Hennepin Canal Parkway State Park,

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August 09

Sheffield, IL.; 815-454-2328 Kankakee River State Park, Bourbonnais, IL.; 815-933-1383 Lake Le-Aqua-Ne State Park, Bourbonnais, IL.; 815-369-4282 MatthiessenState Park, Utica, IL.; 815-667-4868 Middle Fork State Fish and Wildlife Area, Collison, IL.; 217-442-4915 Moraine View State Park, Leroy, IL.; 309-724-8043 Newton Lake State Fish & Wildlife Area, Newton, IL.; 618-783-3478 Pere Marquette State Park, Grafton, IL.; 618-786-2156 Rock Cut State Park, Loves Park, IL.; 815-885-3311 Shawnee National Forest, Harrisburg, IL.; 618-253-7114 Weinbrg-King State Park, Augusta, IL.; 217-392-2345 IOWA - Trail Rides Amana Trail Ride, Amana Colonies, Amana, IA.; 319-462-2206, www.amanatrailride.com Overnight Stabling Aunt Reba’s Bed and Breakfast, Larchwood, MN.; 712-478-4042 or 888-282-5349: www.auntrebas.com Iowa Bunkhouse, Audubon, IA.; May-September: 712-773-2737 JM4 Rand, Arena, Horse Hotel, Bed and Breakfast, Crescent, IA.; 712-328-7593, www.JM4Ranch.com Lewis Bottom Farms, Shellsburg, IA.; 319-436-3323, www.lewisbottomsfarms.com MINNESOTA - Trail Rides Bush Wacker Trail Ride Club, Huntersville Fall Trail Ride, Huntersville, MN.; 218-894-0056 Outback Ranch, Inc., Houston, MN.; 507-896-5550, www.outbackranch.com Overnight Stabling Outback Ranch, Inc., Houston, MN.; 507-896-5550, www.outbackranch.com Public Lands Arrow Head State Park, Tower, MN.; 218-753-6256 Chippewa National Forest, Deer River, MN.; 218-246-2123 Heartland State Trail, Nevis, MN.; 218-652-4054

August 09

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midwest horse digest www.brokenarrowcampground.com Hay Creek Ranch, Nemo, SD: 605-578-1142, www.haycreekranch.net Gunsel Horse Adventures, Rapic City, SD 605-343-7608, www.gusdelhorseadventures.com Salt Camp Cabins and Bed and Breakfast, Rosebud, SD: 605-747-2206, saltcamp@gwtc.net WISCONSIN - Trail Rides Bremer Creek LLD, Mondovi, WI.; 608-323-3092, www.bremercreek.com Riding Vacations Bremer Creek LLD, Mondovi, WI.; 608-323-3092, www.bremercreek.com Palmquist Farm, Brantwood, WI.; 715-564-2558, www.palmquistfarm.com Spur of the Moment Ranch,LLC,Mountain, WI.;800-644-8783. www.spurofthemomentranch.org Public Lands Black River State Park, Black River Falls, WI; 715-284-4103 Brule River State Forest, Douglas County, WI.; 715-372-4866 Castle Rock Trails, Arkdale, WI.; 608-564-2233 Governor Dodge State Park ,Dodgeville, WI.; 608-935-2315 Haymeadow Flowage, Chippewa Falls, WI.; 715-726-7880 Kerrle Moraine State Forest, Campbellsport WI.; 262-626-2116; 262-594-6200 Lake Wissota State Park, Chippewa Falls; 715382-4574 Token Creek County Park, Madison,WI.; 608-246-3896

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August 09

August 09

midwest horse digest

UPCOMING EVENTS

8/14/2009 - IA, Larchwood - Barrel UBRA Larchwood Barrel Racing Jackpots. TTT approved. - (605) 212-4496

8/6/2009 - SD, Hartford - Barrel UBRA - Horse Haven Arena Barrel Racing Jackpots. TTT approved. - (605) 526-3647

8/15/2009 - MN, Theif River Falls - Barrel NBHA, UBRA - Theif River Falls Fairgrounds NBHA MN05 Double Header - (218) 681-6857

8/7/2009 - MN, Buffalo - Barrel - Region 5 Barrel Stakes 2009 - (763) 682-6485 chris_west@hopkins.k12.mn.us

8/15/2009- SD, Watertown- Barrel - UBRA, Other Independent Barrel Racers Assoc. $500 Added @ Derby Downs - (605) 345-3944 ehagen@idctel.com

8/7-8/9 - MN, Verndale - Barrel N o r t h e r n Region Futurities, UBRA Central MN Arena & Event Center GRAND RE-OPENING FUTURITY, DERBY & BARREL RACE - (715) 857-6343 Added Money: $3000 - jessica@ubra.org 8/7-8/9 - IA, Waterloo - Barrel - Double B Productions Cowgirl Tuff Barrel Bash $5000 added (deadline 2 weeks prior to event) (BBR) FMI DOUBLE B PRODUCTION - (641) 745-5845 - bolling@iowatelecom.net 8/8-8/9 - WI, Rio - Barrel - WI 02, Wisconsin NBHA WI-02 Barrel Race - Paradise Stables - (920) 992-3171 8/8/2009 - MN, North Branch - Barrel - NBHA, NBHA MN-06, UBRA - NBHA MN06 Houck Horse Company - (651) 335-4418 - taleader@msn.com 8/8/2009 - MN, Verndale - Auction, Barrel, Horse Sale & Auction - R & J Arena 1st Annual Barrel Horse & Barrel Prospect Sale. Bonus for sale horses competing in barrel race. - (218) 4455849 - jms@wcta.net 8/8/2009 - SD, Baltic - Barrel U B R A Westridge Equine Center Barrel Racing Jackpots. TTT approved. Year End Awards Presentation - (605) 543-5797 8/9/2009 - MN, North Branch - Barrel - Minnesota Barrel Racers Association - MBRA open jackpot @ Houck Horse Company - (612) 232-3673 trisha_jensen@yahoo.com 8/9/2009 - MN, Rimoe - Reining, Working Cow Horse - MWCRA, aqha approved reining and wch - (651) 755-9376 - Zach@QuickDrawEquine.com 8/11/2009 - IA, Greenfield - Barrel - Double B Productions - BB Arena Summer Barrel Award Series & BBR mbrshp drive (special awards for BBR members) open to all! - (641) 745-5845 bolling@iowatelecom.net 8/11/2009 - MN, Buffalo - Barrel UBRA - Buffalo Barrel Bash 2009 @ Buffalo Rodeo Grounds (763) 682-6485 - chris_west@hopkins.k12.mn.us 8/12/2009 - MN, Litchfield - Barrel - NBHA, UBRA NBHA MN01 Weds Night Barrel Race w/ Meeker County Flyswatters - (612) 810-4010 specks95@hotmail.com 8/13/2009 - SD, Forestburg - Barrel - UBRA Amdah Barrel Racing Jackpots. TTT approved. (605) 350-0955 8/13/2009 - SD, Hartford - Barrel - UBRA - Horse Haven Arena Barrel Racing Jackpots. TTT approved. - (605) 526-3647 8/13-8/15 - MN, Fergus Falls - Rodeo - Red Horse Ranch Arena 5th Annual PRCA Rodeo (218) 736-3000 - rhra@prtel.com 8/14/2009 - MN, Clarrisa - Barrel - UBRA Rocking D’ Acres Jackpot Barrel Race UPDATE: Added $ & gift certificates to J & B Western!!! (218) 756-2576 - Added Money: $100 rockingd@eaglevalleytel.net

8/15-8/16 - WI, Glenwood City -Barrel Wisconsin Girls Barrel Racing Association, WI 03, Wisconsin NBHA WI 03 Barrel Race at Glenwood Cty Fairgrounds - (715) 237-2485 8/15/2009 -MN, Isanti - Barrel - UBRA - Hi Circle Vee Barrel Racing Series - (612) 810-4010 specks95@hotmail.com 8/16/2009 - MN, North Branch - Fun Show Fun Show 11am $20 for the entire day of FUN! High Point Awards to all Divisions - (651) 2771095 - houckhorsecompany@yahoo.com

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BBR members) open to all! - (641) 745-5845 bolling@iowatelecom.net 8/27/2009 - SD, Hartford - Barrel - UBRA - Horse Haven Arena Barrel Racing Jackpots. TTT approved. - (605) 526-3647 8/28/2009 - IA, Larchwood - Barrel - UBRA Larchwood Barrel Racing Jackpots. TTT approved. - (605) 212-4496 8/29-8/30 - SD, Watertown - Barrel - UBRA Independent Barrel Racers Assoc. YEAR END FINALS $3500 Added @ Derby Downs. Many, many awards! - (605) 345-3944 ehagen@idctel.com 8/29-8/30 - WI, Mondovi - Barrel NBHA, WI 03, Wisconsin NBHA WI 03 Barrel Race at Midnight Riders Saddle Club - (715) 875-4490 8/29/2009 - MN, North Branch - Fun Show Houck Horse Company Fun Show - (651) 2771095 - houckhorsecompany@yahoo.com 8/29-8/30 - NE, FREMONT - Barrel PURINA MILLS SADDLE SERIES - (402) 419-0191

8/18/2009 - IA, Greenfield - Barrel Double B Productions -BB Arena Summer Barrel Award Series & BBR mbrshp drive (special awards for BBR members) open to all! - (641) 745-5845 bolling@iowatelecom.net

August 29th - Dennis Reis No Dust Tour - South Dakota State University Equine Center www.gojacks.com 1823 Hwy 14 Bipass, Brookings, South Dakota, 57006 (605-688-6856)

8/19/2009 - SD, Viborg - Barrel - UBRA Anderson Arena Boomgarden Barrel Racing Jackpots. TTT approved. - (701) 214-1055

8/30/2009 - IA, Greenfield - Double B Productions - Horse Soccer "Camp" ALL AGES – ALL LEVELS OF RIDER (641) 745-5845 bolling@iowatelecom.net

8/19/2009 - MN, Monticello -Barrel, Futurity UBRA - Arrowhead Arena Barrel Race. Open 4D's, Youth & Futurity classes - (763) 878-1554 arrowheadarena@tds.net 8/19/2009 - MN, Chatfield - Barrel, Futurity UBRA - Gartner's Arena Wednesday Night Summer Series - (507) 259-8105 gart5@hotmail.com 8/20/2009 - SD, Hartford - Barrel - UBRA - Horse Haven Arena Barrel Racing Jackpots. TTT approved. - (605) 526-3647 8/21/2009 - IA, Larchwood - Barrel - UBRA Larchwood Barrel Racing Jackpots. TTT approved. - (605) 212-4496 8/21-8/23 - MN, Fergus Falls - Barrel - NBHA State Finals - (218) 736-3000 - rhra@prtel.com 8/21/2009 - MN, Clarrisa - Barrel - UBRA Rocking D’ Acres Jackpot WSCA show: ALL PAYBACK!!!

Added $ & gift certificates to J & B Western!!! (218) 756-2576 - Added Money: $100 rockingd@eaglevalleytel.net 8/22-8/23 - WI, Deerfield - Ranch Rodeo American Ranch Horse - (651) 755-9376 Zach@QuickDrawEquine.com August 22nd & 23rd - Dennis Ries No Dust Tour Lancaster Events Complex - www.lancastereventcenter.com - 4100 N 84th Street, Lincoln, NE 68507 8/23/2009 - MN, Princeton - Barrel - UBRA Round Up Riders Saddle Club at Rum River Arena - (320) 983-2679 info@roundupriderssc.com

8/30/2009 - MN, North Branch - Barrel Annual Barrel Racing Saddle Series ADDED MONEY 10:30am Start! - (651) 277-1095 houckhorsecompany@yahoo.com 9/1/2009 - IA, Greenfield - Barrel Double B Productions -BB Arena Summer Barrel Award Series & BBR mbrshp drive (641) 745-5845 bolling@iowatelecom.net September 2nd - Dennis Reis No Dust Tour CattleCongress - 257 Ansborough Ave., Waterloo, IA 50701 319-234-7515 www.nationalcattlecongress.com 9/2/2009 - MN, Litchfield - Barrel - UBRA Meeker County Flyswatters Cowgirl Tuff Arena Summer Series - (612) 240-3176 - Added Money: $100

We created AgMax specifically to serve the unique needs of highly specialized, commercial agriculture operations, including: • Growers who process or retail their production • Animal producers who direct market • Equine operations, including boarding, breeding and training • Agritainment operations such as pumpkin patches, corn Wade Scott mazes and petting zoos 24 S Olive St • Hunting and guiding activities Suite 301 on your farm Waconia, MN Call today to learn more.

(952) 442-4402

8/23/2009 10:30:00 AM - WI, Mondovi - Barrel WI 03, Wisconsin NBHA - WI 03 Barrel Race at Lazy L Arena - (715) 926-5309 8/25/2009- IA, Greenfield - Barrel - Double B Productions - BB Arena Summer Barrel Award Series & BBR mbrshp drive (special awards for

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Auto | Home | Life | Business | College | Retirement Western Agricultural Insurance Company+/West Des Moines, IA. Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Company+/West Des Moines, IA. Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company +/West Des Moines, c 2007 FBL Financial Group, Inc. 146R IA.‘Companies of Farm Bureau Financial Services o

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September 4th – Wisconsin State Fairgrounds www.wistatefair.com/wsfp.html 640 So. 84th St. West Allis, WI 53214 (414-266-7007) 9/2/2009 - MN, Chatfield - Barrel, Futurity UBRA Gartner's Arena Wednesday Night Summer Series - (507) 259-8105 - gart5@hotmail.com 9/5-9/7- KS, Topeka - Barrel - Double B Productions - Cowgirl Tuff Barrel Bash $5000 added (deadline 2 weeks prior to event) (BBR) FMI DOUBLE B PRODUCTION - (641) 7455845 - bolling@iowatelecom.net 9/5-9/6 - WI, Black River Falls - Barrel, Reining WIFQHA aqha approved reining and barrels (651) 755-9376 - Zach@QuickDrawEquine.com 9/5/2009 - IA, Larchwood- Barrel UBRA Larchwood Barrel Racing Jackpots. TTT approved. - (605) 212-4496 9/8/2009 - IA, Greenfield - Barrel Double B Productions - BB Arena Summer Barrel Award Series & BBR mbrshp drive (special awards for BBR members) open to all! - (641) 745-5845 bolling@iowatelecom.netr Series - (507) 2598105 - gart5@hotmail.com 9/12 - Morton, MN - Redwood Stables - Dennis Auslam - 1 day Desensitising and Challenge Trail Course Clinic visit www.redwoodstables.com for more information call 507-943-3355 October 3 & 4 - Roping Clinic - with Dennis Auslam - Lucky K Ranch, 952-226-4434 Prior Lake, MN www.redwoodstables.com or www.luckykranch.com

new seats, billets, tree alterations on Kieffer and Prestige saddles. Appointments booked for quick turn around. Skilled repair of driving harness and sidesaddles.Custom accessories for side saddle competition. Bridles sewn in.

Contact Michael at 847-776-6700 or e-mail master_saddler@saddlersrow.com Website www.saddlersrow.com 1209

HORSES FOR SALE Foundation AQHA horses, mares, geldings and yearlings. King, Driftwood and Gunsmoke breeding. Bays, Grays and Duns. 608-526909 3970 or (cell) 608-792-3519 Andalusion/Quarter Horse - 4 year old, Black Bay Gelding, 30 days training, pleasure & trail riding so far, very athletic, excellent disposition. IALHA registered 605-272-5623 or 9/09 rlr@itctel.com Andalusian/Quarter Horse - 2 yr. old bay filly & yearling black bay colt, very athletic, excellent disposition, lead, trailer, load, stand for farrier, eligible for IAHLA registry. 605-272-5623 909 rlr@itctel.com Huge Moving son of TWO Imports! Carthusian bred. Breed: Andalusian, Pura Raza Espanola Tall, Fantastic Temperament and an AMAZING Trot!!! Dressage riders and Andalusian Lovers alike will appreciate this incredible colt. Full siblings show stoppers. 972-746-1457 vintageandalusians@hotmail.com

Now till 10/10/09 Unique Online Photo Horse Show!For more info: ishrppa@aol.com or go http://spottedhorses.tripod.com/online_show_1. html call: 866-201-3098

BROODMARE SUPREME******Especial BA

by DESPIERTO out of FURIOSA A $25,000.00 - Prolific daughter of Despierto in foal to US National Champion Third Level Dressage "Legado" - 262-249-8870, selwoodp@idcnet.com One Hot Momma - Beautiful Dressage horse, Age 8. Talented. 10 months Pofessionaly Training, Schooling 2nd level. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lAPDwJB8lYA • 360-460-4995 • cinrods@gmail.com Fantastic Dressage Colt for Sale With a Temperament One Dreams For!With a round build, sweet temperament and a fantastic straight Dressage Movement!, this lovely 2YO colt is ready to start a new partnership! 972746-1457 vintageandalusians@hotmail.com

STALLIONS 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 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.

Classifieds Work $10.00 per month for 20 words, $.15 for each word over 20.

Send your classified in with your check or credit card to:

EMAIL YOUR EVENT LISTINGS TO PEG@HORSEDIGESTS.COM

Classifieds EDUCATION

August 09

Equine Assisted Learning Certification. SAVE THE DATE! September 17 & 18, 2009. Near Green Bay, WI. Janet Hagen, PhD. 920-4203825, pegasusleaders.com, www.pegasusleaders@yahoo.com 809

Midwest Horse Digest, Attention: Peg (classified) 40694 30th Street, Elmore, MN 56027 or call 507-943-3355

HORSE SHOW

Name:______________________________________ 20 Words = $10.00 Address:____________________________________ # Extra Words ___x $.15 = ______ City:________________________St:_____Zip:_________ Sub-Total: ______ Credit Card#____________________________________ # of months to Run x: ______ Type:________Exp. Date:_________3 Digit Code:______ Total: ______ Phone:_______________Email:______________________ Number of Months to Run:______

Unique Online Photo Horse Show! Now till 10/10/09. Awards, Prizes, Championships. http://spottedhorses.tripod.com/online_show_ 1.html, 866-201-3098 or ishrppa@aol.com.

909 Over 340 classes!

PRODUCTS 10 box stalls,- 1-x1- - Brand new, no wood. $13,000. Choose your color. Contact 507-5272914. Will sell individually.

809 New leather harness ,3rd generation business.

Team, work, complete with hames, collars extra. Draft $802.00. Qtr. horse $757.00.

Show 3 hip-Draft $882.00. Qtr. horse $812.00.

Buggy breast Qtr $220.00 Pony $140.00.

Catalogue - St Paul Saddlery, 953 W 7th St., St Paul, MN 55102 1209 Master Saddler offers complete saddlery repairs. Trees replaced, complete reflocks,

AD Category:_________________ Classfied:________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ _

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August 09

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Thumbnail Photo Classifieds Place your photo classified here for $20.00 per month just call 507-943-3355 for more info Plus you can also place your ad online at

www.horsedigests.com

For Sale Available for Purchase: Bailador DG. Grey son of Santeno KDW - mazing mover! Lots of action in the front & push from behind.

Substantial bone & an upright neck. Perfect for Dressage.

972-746-1457 vintageandalusians@hotmail.com BEAUTIFUL HALFANDALUSIAN, EXCELLENT DRESSAGE, EVENTING PROSPECT - filly, nicely started under saddle, ready for show, trail, or putting fabulous sport babies on the ground.

715-822-3922 SADIEMAEJONES@yahoo.com Breathtaking Solid Black 1/2 Andalusian Filly sired by Flamenco D! Amazing Dressage Prospect!

Black Bay Filly By Mediteraneo V. Black Bay daughter of 2007 IALHA Grand National Champion Sr. Stallion, Mediteraneo V! Fantastic Movement.

972-746-1457 vintageandalusians@hotmail.com

Beautiful Lusitano Mare Beautiful Dressage horse, Age 8. Talented. 10 months Pofessionaly Training, Schooling 2nd level.

3604604995 cinrods@gmail.com

Stallions and Stallion Auctions Red Buck Barcee - 16H AQHA Buckskin. Two Eyed Red Buck/Watch Joe Jack bloodlines.

Cooled Semen/excellent mare care $500.00 Cr Quarter Horses crquarterhorses@tds.net www.crquarterhorses.net

972-746-1457 vintageandalusians@hotmail.com Amazing Buckskin 1/2 Andalusian Filly (Azteca) First foal from Flamenco D! Stunning and RARE SOLID BUCKSKIN 2008 Andalusian Filly (Azteca) 972-746-1457 vintageandalusians@hotmail.com Very Tall, Huge Moving Son of Heroe Mac! Extra tall yearling Andalusian Colt. (Azteca) Lovely forward movement and a quiet mind.

CR Smokes Midnight - 16H AQHA, Steel Gray - Jackie Bee/Tee Jay Roman bloodlines. Cooled semen/excellent mare care. $500.00 CR Quarter Horses 608.994.2451 crquarterhorses@tds.net www.crquarterhorses.net

972-746-1457 or

Ole Skip Classic - Beautiful buckskin AQHA stallion at stud.

Skipper W & The Ole Man foundation bloodlines.Balanced conformation, great disposition, all his colts have his wonderful trot & canter. See more at: 507-764-2010

vintageandalusians@hotmail.com

\http://www.angelfire.com/mn2/elmcreek/index.html

Huge Moving daughter of Heroe Mac! Huge Moving Yearling Andalusian Filly by Heroe MAC! This is a serious dressage competitors dream mount!

Famous Echo Homozygous!

World Champ. Halter stallion! direct son of The Color of Fame.2004 Pinto Horse of the Year and the 2004 Pinto World Champion Halter Stallion 715-210-5371

972-746-1457 or vintageandalusians@hotmail.com

Clearcreekarabians@yahoo.com

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Fiero LFA,PRE Black Andalusian International Champion of Champions international bloodlines, Proven producer, Proven Junior Champion Stallion and USDF Dressage Competitor.

817-205-9268

Stallion.

maryclaeys@cdibb.com

Equipment Trailers with or without living quarters, gooseneck and bumper pull, Keifer Built and Universal Trailers 320-363-4650 joejohnson@clearwire.net

Services and Products The Elite Fleet by 3BarL T r a n s p o r t 1*800*982*2208 Horse Transportation Short Description: Affordable - Experienced Reliable -- Specialized dispatch462003@yahoo.com

Discount prices on the full lines of ThinLine, Skito, and SnugPax products.

Also highest-quality rhythm beads and horsehair items.

207-951-0526

orders@zegifts.com www.zegifts.com

Tack Solutions by Leslie is a 99% consignment store for all your horse needs. We consign and sell saddles, tack and clothing for all disciplines of riding. Whether you are buying or consigning, we are worth the trip. Stop by and browse our store. Always accepting consignments from all over the US. 602-404-2165 www.tacksolutionsaz.com

Call us for more information on in print and online photo classifieds!

507-943-3355

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