Horse n Ranch April18

events - trails - tips - advice news - inspiration - products real estate & more

The Original Horse N Ranch TM Volume 4 Issue 3 2018

Free Take One

Everything Horse Related www.HorseNRanchmag.com • 423.933.4968 • 4-Horses Publications • Since 1998

CHEROKEE FEED & SEED Saturday, April 21st

Food, Fun Fellowship See page 2

CHEROKEE

FEED & SEED

Saturday April 21st 10 am to 4 pm

869 Grove St. Gainesville GA Free Food - Prizes - Give Aways ALL FEED ON SALE! Special Pricing And Deals On Feed & Farm Supplies Venders Galore Get Your Questions Answered Directly From The Experts

Food! Fun! Fellowship!

GAINESVILLE LOCATION 770-532-6291 869 Grove St Gainesville, GA 30501

www.cherokeefeedandseed.com

check Website & Facebook for MONTHLY SPECIALS!

2

VOLUME 4 | ISSUE 3 2018

Say you saw it in HORSE N RANCH TM

Trust the brand that gets results.

Whether your horse needs protection from annoying flies and pests or a nutritional supplement to help him perform his best, Horse Health™ Products has the answer. Trust the brand that works as hard as your horse does. Horse Health provides essential horse care solutions at a price you can afford.

Horsemen Choose Horse Health™

For more information, visit horsehealthproducts.com Ambush, Apple-Dex, Electro Dex, Horse Health, Horse Health purple, Horsemen Choose Horse Health, the horseshoe design, the purple jug, Red Cell and Vita-E & Selenium Crumbles are trademarks of Farnam Companies, Inc. Red Cell® Competition and Red Cell® Recovery not available in KY, NM. ©2018 Farnam Companies, Inc. 18-10218

1.50 OFF

$

MANUFACTURER’S COUPON EXPIRES JUNE 30, 2018

any one size Ambush® Insecticide & Repellent, Apple-Dex™ or Electro Dex® electrolyte, Red Cell® supplement OR Vita Crumbles™ supplement!

CONSUMER: Limit one coupon per transaction. Redeemable only on brand and size indicated. Coupon not valid if transferred, reproduced, purchased, sold or bartered. Coupon cannot be combined with any other offers.

Consumer pays sales tax. RETAILER: We will reimburse you the face value of this coupon plus 8¢ handling provided you and the consumer have complied with the terms of this offer. Invoices proving purchases of sufficient stock to cover presented coupons must be shown on request. ANY OTHER APPLICATION MAY CONSTITUTE FRAUD. Coupon void where prohibited, taxed or restricted. Consumer must pay any sales tax. Cash value 001¢.

Good only in U.S.A. Coupon may not be reproduced or transferred. Offer expires 6/30/18 and must be received by 9/30/18. MAIL TO: Central Garden & Pet, CMS Dept #71859, One Fawcett Drive, Del Rio, TX 78840. ©2018 Farnam Companies, Inc. All trademarks are property of Farnam Companies, Inc. 18-10218 horsehealthproducts.com

VOLUME 4 | ISSUE 3 2018

Say you saw it in HORSE N RANCH TM

3

JRV Realty of North Georgia 1150 Old Talking Rock Highway Talking Rock, GA 30175

Rich Vigue, Broker

770.289.7272

www.RichVigue.com

Licensed in Georgia and Tennessee

18 Acre Horse Farm. 4BR/3.5Ba home with open floor plan, floor to ceiling rock fireplace, and finished terrace level. 8 stall barn w/ tack room, wash rack, break room, and full bath. Large equipment/ storage building. Great long range view. 1 hour north of Atlanta.

Jasper, GA Offered at $899,000.

15 acre upscale Horse Farm with 4BR/2.5BA brick home w/top of the line features, 5 stall show barn, 100x80 arena, 10 acres in pasture, year round creek. One hour north of Atlanta. Talking Rock, GA Offered at $625,000.

80 acre Magnificent Horse Farm w/3,550SF 4BR/2BA Ranch/ European style home. Incredible 3 stall horse barn with all the conveniences and spacious apartment. 2 acre pond and large hay barn. Gorgeous setting. Rome, GA. Offered at $889,000.

events - trails - tips - advice news - inspiration - products real estate & more

The Original Horse N Ranch TM Volume 4 Issue 3 2018

Everything Horse Related

F E AT U R E S

Cherokee Feed & Seed Customer Appreciation Day....................................1,2 How to Safely Pick Up Your Horses’ Hooves Casey & Son...................................................................... 8 Smoking Hot Jeeps And Fresh Starts Crystal Lyons................................................................... 9 Similarities Between Western and “Regular” Dressage - Lynn Palm..............................16 How Do You Know If Your Saddle Fits?”

Terry Peiper ..................................................................18 Calendar Of Events............................................... 20-21 Going the Distance - Long Distance Horse Hauling Robert Eversole............................................................22

Owned by HorseNRanch Magazine 4 Horses Publications PO Box 62, Ocoee TN 37361 horsenfarm@yahoo.com · info@horsenranchmag.com Lisa Fetzner, Publisher 423.933.4968 Dennis Fetzner, Publisher & Sales Rep. 423.472.0095 Alison Hixson, Graphic Design 423.316.6788 Horse N Ranch is distributed to businesses, horse shows, trail rides, Expos, auctions, and all advertisers. We reserve the right to edit any material we receive for publication. Horse N Ranch Magazine and staff will not be responsible for any claims or guarantees made by advertisers. The articles printed do not necessarily reflect the opinions of 4 Horses Publications, LLC. All ads created by 4 Horses LLC, are the sole property of Horse N Ranch Magazine. If ad is to be reproduced in another publication, there will be a fee assessed. Please call office for more information 423-933-4968. 4 Horses LLC, dba Horse N Ranch Magazine hereby limits all liability from any and all misprints. No warranties are expressed by Horse N Ranch Magazine, Publishers, Reps or Employees; and are not solely responsible for typographical errors.

Horse N Ranch Magazine stresses the importance of correctness and therefore proofreads all ads as accurately as humanly possible.

www.HorseNRanchmag.com for advertising call 423.933.4968, Lisa Fetzner

4

VOLUME 4 | ISSUE 3 2018

Say you saw it in HORSE N RANCH TM

Alabama Horse Council & Best of America By Horseback Join us for fun, fellowship, trail riding, food and more

Faye Whittemore Farms, Jasper, AL April 27—29, 2018

www.alabamahorsecouncil.org 6

VOLUME 4 | ISSUE 3 2018

Say you saw it in HORSE N RANCH TM

Customer Appreciation

DAY!

Saturday

MAy 5th

7 great years!

10 am-4 pm

We look forward to serving you for many more!

770.943.5493

4070 Macedonia Road Powder Springs, GA 30127

FREE REFRESHMENTS RAFFLE ITEMS ALL FEED ON SALE DOOR PRIZES VENDORS ON SITE

“I can do ALL things through Christ who strengthens me” VOLUME 4 | ISSUE 3 2018

Say you saw it in HORSE N RANCH TM

PHIL 4:13 7

How to

SAFELY Pick Up Your Horses’ Hooves

1

2

3 Pre-purchase evaluation, picking up the feet can be very intimidating at first and safety measures should always be taken each time. A horse at any age, young or old, that willingly allows you to pick up his feet for handling and cleaning is well worth taking a second look at. Here are some steps that a farrier would follow during our “Safety Checks.”

Never tie the horse securely so that he cannot get away while working on the front limbs. Have someone hold the horse or if you are alone, drop the lead line on the ground. Choose an area away from other horses like a round pen, a stall, a washing area or just anywhere you can be alone with the horse. If the 8

horse accidentally spooks, he should be able to get away without hurting you or itself. A tight restraint will frighten him even more and you are asking for a blow up! Even a child can learn while helping if the horse is handled daily as in these photos. Ideally, if you feed on a regular basis, then clean the feet on a regular basis.

In photos one and two, in picking up the front limb, you should always practice safety. By laying your arm across the horse and bending your legs, not only will you save your back, but you will keep your head higher and away. In case the horse swats a fly with the hind foot, he will not strike your head or face.

In photos three, four, five, in picking up the hind limb, by laying your arm across the back of the horse you will also save your back, by bending your legs and keeping your head higher and laying your face on the animal. This keeps your face also out of range. With your arm across the horse, you can get a better feel of the animal’s movement. It also helps support some of the weight.

By putting the hoof in your crotch and twisting your buttocks in a direction under the horse you will have control.

If the horse does try to kick, remember he must cock his leg before he kicks. If you are locked in securely when he cocks the hind foot, he will pull back to your original position saving you from being kicked. This technique is one that must be practiced over and over, the more the better for both of you.

Even when you do learn to how to use a hoof pick to clean out the hooves, most hoof problems are not obvious to the untrained eye, and only a few may be noticed by a novice horseman. By handling the feet and legs daily, you will begin to notice any other injuries,

swelling, embedded rocks, thrush, bruises, abscesses and loose nails or shoes, just to name a few.

The Horseshoeing School can provide these directions one-on-one with owners of all ages, anyone who is willing to learn and own horses.

Photo 6, Shown here is a safe humane headstall we use to help train horses to stand still while the farrier is performing hoof care, trimming and shoeing needs. A smart horse will quickly learn to respect the handler and be calm. When he starts licking his lips he is calming down. Thus…results !!

4

5

6

VOLUME 4 | ISSUE 3 2018

Say you saw it in HORSE N RANCH TM

HAPPY HORSE = HAPPY OWNER!!

Professional Farrier Services available at the

CASEY Horseshoeing School

Visitors always welcome!

Bring Your Questions or.... your Horses with Your Questions !

Does YOUR Farrier offer all the latest technology to analyze your horse properly?

Thermal Image shows poor circulation in the lame leg

Bring your horse to our facility for a five-star treatment that can’t be beat!

Casey Horseshoeing School, in affiliation with the Farriers’ National Research Center,

offers YOU and your HORSE the BEST service available We specialize in standard trims and shoeing to the most advanced corrective procedures and lameness

FREE EVALUATIONS

offer owners a chance to bring their horses for a complete overview using the Thermal, The Track, Treadmill, our cameras & EFT. Excellent for event and performance horses but also for the owners who just want an easy and safe ride on the trail.

Georgia’s only

Horseshoeing School Voted #1 for 29 years!

3rd Generation Farriers

Full Time Trade School Tuesday – Saturday, year round Fact: A REAL Education 100% Hands-on with Live Horses !!

No Cadaver hooves shod at this school !!

2 days- 24 week courses - School tuition includes CLEAN lodging, hot meals, tools, anvil and forge !!

Call 706.397.8909 Call for a Free Color Brochure www.caseyhorseshoeing.com rcaseysch@aol.com 14013 East Hwy. 136 (in Villanow) LaFayette, Georgia 30728 Exit #320 Just 12 miles off I-75.

75 Miles North of Atlanta 35 Miles South of Chattanooga Office Hours: Mon-Sat 8:00 - 5:00 School & Visiting Hours: Tues-Sat 8:00 - 5:00

Fact: #1 Horseshoeing School preferred

by Veterans in the U.S. VA approved for GI Bill Post 9/11 & Voc. Rehab.

Give yourself a raise! $$$ Become self employed as a professional CERTIFIED farrier!

Casey & Son Horseshoeing School • Founded by Navy Veteran • Owned by son, Link Casey VOLUME 4 | ISSUE 3 2018

Say you saw it in HORSE N RANCH TM

9

SMOKING HOT JEEPS AND FRESH STARTS I had an 83 Jeep for 12 years after buying it when it was already 10 years old. Nothing....not a dent, scratch....NOTHING ever happened to that Jeep. That Jeep finally spit the bit and I decided to buy a brand new Jeep already lifted 4” and set up for “pretend” rock crawling.

It was black....SHINY BLACK. My first brand new Jeep EVER!! Not long after getting it, a horse decided to run his upper teeth over the hood, just to see how black tasted l guess. Then Tyger, “fixing fence” flipped it in a pasture after an airborne jump that landed horribly wrong. Funny how fixing fence called for off road, dirt racing maneuvers.

If that wasn’t enough, Colt Wrangler, in his senior year asked to just drive to the Llano River to watch it on the rise. With me knowing better, I strongly advised him to be sure and NOT drive out on the gravel bar but simply watch it from the ridge....and be back in an hour.

Parents.....we should know better than to turn a teenage boy loose, with a cool Jeep, amongst other teenage boys, with 4 wheel drive rigs, down on a river that’s rising from all the flood rains.

One hour passed....no son....2 hours...nothing. Finally at 1 am a truck pulls up and deposits Colt Wrangler at the front door and leaves. (I would’ve left fast too) Sure enough, Colt had done exactly what I said NOT to do and drove the Jeep out onto the gravel bar and sunk it!

If there’s ever any retribution for his disobedience, it’s the fact that he had worked for HOURS trying to get it unstuck. Not to mention the gnawing fear of death over what was facing him by placing my precious Jeep in harms way! After expressing myself CLEARLY the importance of him praying to God that the river not rise up into my Jeep as that it might drastically effect the length of his young life, I sent him to bed. Long before daylight we got up, got shovels, tow rope and was down on the Llano to see if my Jeep was still above water. I felt like the king coming to see Daniel in the lion’s den and

by Crystal Lyons

hoping against hope that he was still alive. Was my Jeep safe? It was!! We got busy digging, filling ruts and with a borrowed tractor got it pulled out as water was filling up the holes behind us....literally!

By the time we got fully out, we were in waist deep water! Nothing like this EVER happened to my old Jeep! Why all of this happening to the only Jeep I ever bought new?? It’s a mystery.....

But I think the same thing goes for making a “new start” in life. As long as we’re going the “old way” we may not like the results but at least they’re usually predictable. But let us make a bold new start, a change for the positive and WHAM, we can be hit with some unexpected stuff! Make the shift towards a new start and living right and suddenly you’ve become a target. But just like my Jeep, you can dig out of any rut and move on. So don’t be afraid of a new move, new job, new relationship..... new you!! Will you face new problems? Most definitely....but let me tell ya, it’s WORTH it!! And btw....Colt Wrangler rhino lined my Jeep inside and out! She may not be new anymore, but she is still SMOKING HOT!!

For more information on Crystal or to be put on our mailing list you can go to our website www.crystallyons.com or e-mail us at: crystallyonsministery@gmail.com 10

VOLUME 4 | ISSUE 3 2018

Say you saw it in HORSE N RANCH TM

Located beside Interstate 24 Exit 111 Manchester TN (615) 828-3844

Prices Subject To Change Without Notice • Financing Available • Trade Most Anything • Cash For Used Trailers

3 horse slant Bee weekender with AC good condition $6550

Maroon 16’ G.N. Livestock Trailer H.D. Axles $2950 Now $2550

2 horse bumper w/ new tires $1450 Now $1250

Red 12’ bumper stock $2950 Now $2250

HD 15ft John Deer 1508 Cutter $5950 obo

3 - 2 Horse Bumper Trailers in stock $1250 each

14FT Bumper livestock trailer $2950

16’ + 3’ metal decks H.D. equip/Hay trailer $2550

3 horse Titan, ramp, AC, weekender, nice trailer $6550

Super nice cargo trailer 7 ft x 18 ft on the floor plus the neck $6950 Now $4950

Used 3 or 4 horse slantwalk in tack $4950 Now $3950

Great Deal!

4 horse bumper $2950

2 Horse Slant Walk in Tack, 5 in stock, Now $2950

Dual Tandem 2.5” pintle hitch trailer $2150

2-horse straight load w/ removable stall divider $3650

20ft x 7 wide Aluminum Barrett livestock $10,500

12’ Bumper Livestock Excellent condition $3850

Beautiful Mountain

Horse Trails & Camping

16 ft Aluminum Goose Neck Cato stock trailer 7’W x 7’T, $9850.00

Used 2 horse-walk in tack-roof-A/C $6500 Now $4950

Bumper pull, 3 horse slant, lifetime floor $2250

2-horse straight load $1250 Now $1050

Silver/red 16ft Aluminum Hawk bumper pull livestock 7.5’ tall 2 horse ramp Now $2250 $8950 VOLUME 4 | ISSUE 3 2018

Gruetli Laager TN

931.409.3459

2 Horse Aluminum Featherlight with Dresser $8950

Titan 3-horse slant, 7’W/7’T, roof A/C, stud dividers, pull out ramp $6550

16FT Bumper livestock $3850 Now $3650

Say you saw it in HORSE N RANCH TM

12x7 ft tall Jackson $3650

Super nice 5 year old registered Tennessse Walker gelding $3850

Nice 16’ Bumper Livestock $3950

Used 2 horse slant-7’ tall-rampdresser $4950

S&H 2 horse $3550 11

INTRODUCING

Protection that

Shines Grand Champion™ Fly Repellent Now you can kill and repel annoying flies, mosquitoes and gnats while delivering a lustrous, show-worthy sheen at the same time. The innovative 360-degree continuous spray provides reduced spray noise and even application at any angle. In the show pen or on the trail, Grand Champion™ protects your horse and keeps him looking like a winner.

Visit your favorite retailer and try it today with an instant $2 off coupon.

Co hru Fly ntrol. Tru ste d-T ee db F , y ks g s a

S

’ AM

N

R FA

NO

Y L F E

N O Z

s, Spot-Ons, H ll-On o r se , Ro Fly ns tio M Lo

Your Partner in Horse Care™

horse owners. Sp ray s, C on

anical Options, O in Bot t m es, en rat ts nt , ce

s of on ati er n e

©2018 Farnam Companies, Inc. Farnam with design, Grand Champion, and Your Partner in Horse Care are trademarks of Farnam Companies, Inc. 18-10186

12

VOLUME 4 | ISSUE 3 2018

Farnam.com Say you saw it in HORSE N RANCH TM

Farnam Adds Continuous Spray to Proven Fly Protection Brands Until now, getting complete fly repellent coverage has been a challenge. It’s one thing to spray a horse’s back and sides, but what about those trickier areas, like under the belly and between the back legs? Those spots need fly protection too, but applying product isn’t always easy.

Farnam is pleased to announce two updated delivery methods for two of the strongest-selling brands in the company’s line of premium fly control.

Endure® Sweat-Resistant Fly Spray for Horses and Tri-Tec 14™ Fly Repellent for Horses are now available in 15-ounce continuous spray cans. The same powerfully effective formulas horse owners have relied on for years are now offered in an incredibly practical format.

Farnam’s 360-degree continuous spray cans provide consistent, even application for quiet, uniform protection. Because the can sprays at any angle--even upside down--there are no more hard-to-reach places. Just spray and the horse is protected. It’s one more reason for horse owners to love their favorite fly repellent.

Unlike standard aerosol cans, with the new continuous spray can there is no propellant expelled with the product. And instead of the cold spray you get from an aerosol, the product comes out at room temperature, which is much more comfortable for the horse. The updated format also means the can empties completely, so no more wasted repellent, and the size makes for a container that’s convenient to hold for effortless use.

Farnam is all about making their products easier for customers to use, while always providing the most effective fly protection. The 360-degree continuous spray cans of Endure® Sweat-Resistant Fly Spray for Horses and Tri-Tec 14™ Fly Repellent for Horses join the Easy-Pour bottles that were introduced last year for added convenience.

For more information on Farnam® fly and pest control products, visit www.farnam.com.

Founded in 1946, Farnam Companies, Inc., has grown to become one of the most widely recognized names in the animal health products industry and has become one of the largest marketers of equine products in the country. No one knows horses better than Farnam. That’s why no one offers a more complete selection of horse care products. Farnam® Horse Products serves both the pleasure horse and the performance horse markets with products for fly control, deworming, hoof and leg care, grooming, wound treatment and leather care, plus nutritional supplements.

Endure, Tri-Tec 14, and Farnam are trademarks of Farnam Companies, Inc.

VOLUME 4 | ISSUE 3 2018

Say you saw it in HORSE N RANCH TM

13

REAL HORSES REAL PROBLEMS REAL HELP

JACKSONVILLE, FL JACKSONVILLE EQUESTRIAN CENTER

MAY 19-20

OVER $6,000 IN PRIZES GIVEN AWAY AT EACH TOUR STOP INCLUDING SADDLES, RITCHIE WATERERS, TACK, TRAINING KITS,NWC MEMBERSHIPS, AND MUCH MORE!!

IT ONLY TAKES TWO DAYS TO BECOME A BETTER HORSEMAN. DISCOVER THE METHOD and begin your journey toward real horsemanship, attend a Walkabout Tour stop near you.

2018 FORT WORTH, TX WILL ROGERS COLISEUM

MAR 3-4

JACKSONVILLE, FL JACKSONVILLE EQUEST. CENTER

MAY 19-20

LEXINGTON, KY KENTUCKY HORSE PARK

JUL 28-29

DEL MAR, CA DEL MAR FAIRGROUNDS

SEP 29-30

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

PRESENTS

WALKABOUTEVENTS.COM 888.287.7432

JOIN WWW.NOWORRIESCLUB.COM TO GET COMPLIMENTARY TICKETS

Scan here for more information

VALLEY VIEW RANCH Equestrian Camp for Girls

Since 1954

for girls ages 8-17

Located a’top beautiful Lookout Mountain on 600 acres of lush pastures, wooded trails, and panoramic views

2018 will be our r!

64th Summe

Equitation lessons in English & Western for beginner to advanced riders. Experience the full opportunity of horsemanship through instruction in the ring, time in the saddle on trails, and the care and responsibility of having your own ranch horse. Enjoy 4-6 hours daily with your horse. Limited to 50 campers per session.

English and Hunt Seat, Western Stock Seat and Barrels (Gymkhana), Trails, and Vaulting.

Our Program also includes eco-education, swimming, canoeing, arts and crafts, archery, pottery, and of course, horsemanship.

606 Valley View Ranch Rd · Cloudland GA 30731 706.862.2231 · www.ValleyViewRanch.com 14

VOLUME 4 | ISSUE 3 2018

Say you saw it in HORSE N RANCH TM

MADE IN U.S.A.

NutriSource® pet foods is formulated with the best ingredients and supplements that guarantee whold body pet health.

nutrisourcepetfoods.com

Introductory Offer

Small Bags $

9.99

Limited Time Only

ALL THE EQUIPMENT YOU NEED

Saddles Tack Barn Supplies Full Line of Feed

www.AGCENTRAL.coop 423.745.0443 920 North Congress Pkwy. Athens, TN 37303

VOLUME 4 | ISSUE 3 2018

Say you saw it in HORSE N RANCH TM

15

Similarities Between Western and “Regular” Dressage

Y

ou’ve probably already figured out that you can do the same dressage maneuvers in a Western saddle that you can do in a “regular” dressage saddle.

This reminds me of our Western Dressage motto, “Why Not?!” I’ve been saying that since I learned of the vast interests in Western Dressage at the 2010 FEI World Equestrian Games.

For the first 30 years of riding, I rode consistently in the dressage saddle. I still find myself training the exact same way whether I am in a Western saddle or a dressage saddle. Dressage principles are the basis of my show ring success. By using these principles with the training of the horses, I find I ride the same when riding in a hunt seat or Western saddle.

I would guarantee you if you put a western saddle—correctly fitted, of course—on a Gran Prix horse and started to do Piaffe, Tempi changes, Passage, Half Pass, etc., you would find that a horse can do just as well in a Western saddle! It does not matter to a horse what saddle is on his back, unless it does not fit the horse or rider correctly. Actually, I find the dressage and Western saddles are the most similar. You ride in a sitting position at the walk, trot, and canter in a dressage saddle. If you are riding correctly in a Western saddle, you mirror the same basic principles at the walk, jog and lope. You can post to the trot in the Western or English saddle too.

Have you ever compared dressage and Western riders? I encourage you to do this using my latest book, “A Riders Guide To Real Collection.” If you use another book, just make sure it features good quality training and correct horsemanship. Now, compare photos of riders. You are going to find the English riders and the Western riders are in similar positions. You should be able to define a vertical straight line from their ear, shoulder, middle of the hip, back of the heel to the ground. This vertical alignment that we must maintain while riding the horse in his three gaits is so similar, no matter what saddle you are using. For example, the Western rider can ride with two hands just like the English rider.

By Lynn Palm

This is a similar balanced position. Remember, the horse does not care about the saddle as long as it fits properly.

Whether you are riding in a dressage or Western saddle, the universal aids of seat, legs and hands used to communicate with the horse are all the same. It should not matter what saddle you are in, as long as you are consistently using your aids correctly. If you had a big, bulky, thick leathered Western saddle, you may not be able to use your aids as “close contact” as a dressage saddle. My Western dressage saddle gives just as close contact with my horse as my dressage saddle. I just love it!

The training of the horse and the levels you follow to improve the horse’s knowledge and performance, as well as your own skills, does not depend on the saddle you ride. The saddle is just a tool to keep you in balance with your horse, feel the horse underneath you, and to give your horse comfort as he carries your weight. A horse should have no problems unless the saddle does not fit.

I find that most riders love the Western saddle because it has a bigger seat and a horn for confidence. A Western saddle does not challenge your balance as much as an English dressage saddle does. All English saddles require more balance from the rider and a skill level, so they don’t rely on the horn if they should need it for balance. We require all our Western riders to ride English simply because I believe that riding English (dressage or hunt seat) will improve your Western riding. Over the years, this has proven very true.

I would like to end this training article with a challenge for you. If you have a friend or student who rides only Western, try to get them in an English saddle.

They will find it helps their Western riding by enhancing balance and confidence. If you know an English rider, try to get them to ride in the Western saddle. They will have a blast, as it is so much more comfortable if the saddle is of top quality. Most riders retire riding in a Western saddle! Don’t ever forget that!

We love to share our dressage backgrounds and knowledge with you and would love to have you come ride with us. You can join us at our farm in Ocala, Florida, or at one of our Ride Well Clinics on our USA Tour at a location near you.

PALM PARTNERSHIP TRAINING ™ Building a Partnership with Your Horse

We love to share our dressage backgrounds and knowledge with you and would love to have you come ride with us. You can join us at our farm in Ocala, Florida, or at one of our Ride Well Clinics on our USA Tour at a location near you.

If you would like to train with Lynn & Cyril at home with Western Dressage, take advantage of the following supportive training materials: BOOKS: “Head To Toe Horsemanship” “Western Dressage—A Guide to Take You to Your First Show” “A Rider Guide to Real Collection” DVDS: “Dressage Principles for the Western Horse & Rider” Volume 1 Parts 1-5 “Dressage Principles for the Western & English Horse & Rider” Volume 2, Parts 1-3 “Let Your Horse Be Your Teacher” Parts 1&2 For more information about training courses, educational materials and much more, please visit www.lynnpalm.com or call 800-503-2824.

16

VOLUME 4 | ISSUE 3 2018

Say you saw it in HORSE N RANCH TM

equinelogo.black&gold.pdf

8/12/11

10:02:15 AM

Proudly serving the Southeast for over 35 years.

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Personal, compassionate service during your difficult time because we know your horse is a member of your family.

Prompt Service • Dignified Transport • Individual Cremation • Custom Services

770.457.7659 • www.horsecremations.com

VOLUME 4 | ISSUE 3 2018

Say you saw it in HORSE N RANCH TM

17

How Do You Know If Your Saddle Fits?”

Without a doubt, this was the #1 most asked question at the Southern Equine Expo in Murfreesboro, TN last month. Since it is such a great question, I would like to share with you a brief description of what you should be looking for in your own saddle.

Terry Peiper First of all, let’s just get this out of the way. You Fit Right Saddle Solutions cannot diagnose saddle fit by the sweat patterns or in pictures! Diagnosing saddle fit with a picture or a sweat pattern is like sending a picture to the doctor and expecting him to give you and diagnosis and a prescription.

My Grandson, Gentry had a fever last week, can you imagine how ridiculous and downright dangerous it would be to ask a Doctor for a diagnosis from a picture? Yet that is exactly what a lot of riders are doing.

To evaluate your saddle fit put your saddle on without a saddle pad and stand your horse up square. His head should be straight and at a normal height.

Does the saddle sit level? A saddle that is too high in the front equals too narrow tree. If the tree is too narrow, there is nothing you can do. No saddle pad can fix that. If the saddle is too low in the front it means the tree or the tree angle is too wide.

Sometimes wide tree can be helped with a pad but it should be only a temporary fix until the horse returns to his normal weight or until a proper fitting saddle can be purchased. A saddle that has too wide an angle cannot be fixed with a pad.

Is there enough wither clearance? The correct answer is there must be clearance on the sides and the top of the withers all the way back to the base of the withers. It is usually 2-3 fingers on top and on the sides without the pad. There must also be clearance with the pad, girthed up with the weight of the rider. There must never be pressure on the spinal ligament. A lot of saddles would fit better without the big bulky pads taking up all the extra space.

The withers are the longest vertebrae wrapped with the spinal ligaments. They act as a fulcrum pulling the back up so the horse can engage. Pressure on the ligament will prevent the horse from being able to lift his back and engage causing muscle soreness and lameness.

Does the tree angle match the horse’s shoulder angle?

Looking at the front of the saddle whether it is English or Western the angle of the tree or the bars must be the same angle as the horse’s shoulder, not the angle of the wither area. The shoulders need to have the freedom to pass under the front of the saddle.

Saddles that slip back or to one side usually don’t have enough room for the shoulders to pass under the front of the saddle so the shoulders simply push the saddle out of the way. The worst thing we can do is put a breast collar on to keep a saddle from sliding back if there is no room for the shoulders. At the top of the shoulder is cartilage, which can easily be damaged by a pinching tree.

Are the billets or rigging in the right place? After you have determined the tree width and tree angle match the horse’s width and shoulder angle, check and make sure the girth will fall into the right place approximately 4 fingers behind the elbow. A girth that is back too far will drag the saddle forward then the shoulders will 18

kick the saddle back then the girth will pull it forward. This back and forth, back and forth every step equals girth sores.

Is the saddle too long? This is a very controversial question.

Some say the saddle support area ends at the last rib where it connects to the last thoracic vertebrae. However, the bars of most western saddles are longer than that. So which is correct? Well, the answer is different for every situation. A good fitting western saddle has some of it’s tree over the shoulders and over the lumbar however, the weight is mostly in the center over the rib heads and the rider’s center is towards the base of the horse’s withers.

Saddles that bridge put painful pressure on the shoulders and lumbar area instead of on the belly of the longissimus muscle over top the ribs. Bridging saddles causing muscle soreness, irritation to the spinal ligament and can cause kissing spines, hunter’s bumps, and chiropractic and lameness problems.

Is the channel wide enough? The channel down the middle of the saddle needs to be wide enough to allow clearance for the vertebrae and the spinal ligament. Most horses are 3-4 fingers wide. No horse has a vertebrae width of 1-2 fingers. The English saddles with 1-2 fingers gullet width don’t fit any horse. It is not possible.

Is the horizontal bar or panel contact even? It is best to go ahead and ride the horse without the pad for a few minutes to see the contact. We would like to see even pressure on both sides with a nice 3-4 finger wide area on top that is untouched. The goal is to have 1-2lbs per square inch.

However, it is very easy to see or feel if a saddle is bridging or not touching in the middle of the horse’s back. If it is not too bad, a pad can be shimmed to fill in the space. In my experience that is the only thing that can be fixed with a pad. A saddle that fits in all other areas can be shimmed to fill in a spot on the horse that is hollow or not as big as the other side but, it must be rechecked frequently. Shimming a saddle pad is definitely not a good long term solution.

After you ride, take the saddle off and look at the marks on the horse’s back. I like to see that the hair if flatten all the same on both sides with nothing touching the top or the sides of the withers or any where down the middle of the horse’s back. There should not be too much pressure in the lumbar area or on the shoulder’s. There should not be any hair ruffed up. Both sides should match. A little bit of sweat in the front and back is normal for a short ride.

Remember, if the saddle doesn’t fit without the pad, you need a different saddle or a different horse to fit your saddle. Joanna Robson DVM, said “if you can’t afford a saddle that fits, get a cheaper horse.”

In 1914, the US Cavalry handbook spells out these exact same guidelines. They depended on the horses to carry them into battle and safely home. Sadly, the information has been lost over the past 100 years but we can help change that.

Horses communicate through behavior. If your horse becomes grouchy when the saddle appears, bites while being girthed up, won’t stand for mounting, has trouble with leads, going down hills, refusing jumps, is anxious and hot headed, has unexplained lameness issues, requires regular chiropractic care or injections it could be your saddle. To prevent needless suffering and possible long term permanent damage, please check your saddle fit regularly and if you are unsure, get some help. Doesn’t your horse deserve to be comfortable?

Terry Peiper, Fit Right Saddle Solutions

VOLUME 4 | ISSUE 3 2018

Say you saw it in HORSE N RANCH TM

Sat March 24th MEEC/ LFF Hunter Series I (MTHJA Show)

BUILD YOUR dream

2018 EVENTS AT MERIDIAN EQUINE

s year is going to be busy at Meridian. We will be hosting

rail obstacle challenges on 3 dates through Equine Trail

orts, 2 open breed Western shows, and a new 4-show

nter and jumper series. The hunter series will be co-hosted

Sat May 19th MEEC/ LFF Hunter Series II Sat June 30th Equine Trail Sports Summer Fun Challenge Sat August 11th MEEC/ LFF Hunter Series III (MTHJA Show)

S&S Building Structures • 423-653-0590

partnership with Lucky Fox Farm, and 2 of the shows will be

HJA rated.

Sat April 14th Spring Fling Open Western Show

Sat September 15th MEEC/ LFF Hunter Series IV

Sat March 17th Equine Trail Sports St Patrick’s Day Challenge

Barns - Garages Any Size ~ We also build Riding Arenas

e are excited about the 2018 show season. It is going to a lot of fun, and we hope to see you all there.

ssbuildingstructures@gmail.com

Member of the NFBA

register for any of our events, please go to the Events

ge at www.MeridianEquine.com.

Sat September 22nd Equine Trail Sports Fall Harvest Challenge

Sat March 24 ssbuildingstructures.com LICENSED,MEEC/ INSURED & BONDED LFF Hunter Series

Sat October 13th Autumn Classic Open Western Show

2018 eridian EVENTS AT quine ducation MERIDIAN EQUINE enter

very event hosted at Meridian Equine helps benefit our

A Team and our Therapeutic Riding Program**

7930 Murfreesboro Road Lebanon, TN 37090 www.MeridianEquine.com

This year is going to be busy at Meridian. We will be hosting

2018 EVENTS AT MERIDIAN EQUINE

COMPANY 6 trail obstacle challenges on 3 dates through NAME Equine Trail Sports, 2 open breed Western shows, and a new 4-show

hunter and jumper series. The hunter series will be co-hosted in partnership with Lucky Fox Farm, and 2 of the shows will be MTHJA rated.

This year is going to be busy at Meridian. We will be hosting 6 trail obstacle challenges on 3 dates through Equine Trail Sports, 2 open breed Western shows, and a new 4-show hunter and jumper series. The hunter series will be co-hosted in partnership with Lucky Fox Farm, and 2 of We are excited about the 2018 show season. It is going to the shows will be MTHJA rated. be a lot of fun, and we hope to see you all there.

We are excited about the 2018 show season. It is going to be a lot of fun, and we hope to see you all there.

To register for any of our events, please go to the Events page at www.MeridianEquine.com.

To register for helps any ofbenefit our events, please to the **Every event hosted at Meridian Equine our IEA Teamgoand ourEvents Therapeutic page at www.MeridianEquine.com.

Riding Program** VOLUME 4 | ISSUE 3 2018

Say you saw it in HORSE N RANCH TM

**Every event hosted at Meridian Equine helps benefit our IEA Team and our Therapeutic Riding Program**

th

I (MTHJA Show)

Sat April 14th Spring Fling Open Western Show Sat May 19th MEEC/ LFF Hunter Series II Sat June 30th Equine Trail Sports Summer Fun Challenge Sat August 11th MEEC/ LFF Hunter Series III (MTHJA Show) Sat September 15th MEEC/ LFF Hunter Series IV Sat September 22nd Equine Trail Sports Fall Harvest Challenge Sat October 13th Autumn Classic Open Western Show 7930 Murfreesboro Road19 Lebanon, TN 37090 www.MeridianEquine.com

r a d n e l Ca

of Events April-May 2018

First Monday of month - Burrell Horse Auction, Horse & Tack Sale: Tack 6:00, Horse 8:00; 6450 Bates Pike, Cleveland TN 423-472-0805

First Tuesday of every month National Racking Horse Assoc, Choo Choo Chapter meets at Wally’s Restaurant in East Ridge Tn @ 7pm. New members and visitors always welcome! Jerry Clark 423-667-0440 Fourth Thursday of every month Gordon County Saddle Club monthly meeting @ Gordon County Agricultural Service Center Visitors welcome! Info: (770) 548-5956 First Monday of every month Club Meeting 7:00 pm Last Monday of every month BOD Meeting 7:00 pm Murray County Saddle Club.com

April

MAR. 30-APR. 1 Harriman, TN. Tri-State Exhibition Center.

East TN Cutting Horse Assn. Info: Lynn Hicks (423)741-1435 APRIL 5-8 Germantown, TN. GCHS Arena.

WTHJA Springtime in Dixie APRIL 6-7 Bill Pickett Rodeo Agricenter Showplace Arena 7777 Walnut Grove Rd., Memphis, TN 901-757-7777 ext.7106 www.agricenter.org/showplace APR. 6-9 MTSU Stock Horse Show Tennessee Livestock Center MTSU Murfreesboro, TN www.mtsu.edu/tlc

First Monday of every month Meeting 7pm Bartow County Saddle Club bartowcountysaddleclub.org

APR. 7 Barrel Racing Sparta, TN. Sky Ann Wilson Arena. NBHA. Lana Blankenship 931-247-2340

3rd Saturday each month - GA Catoosa County Saddle Club facebook.com/catoosacountysaddleclub

APRIL 7-8 Franklin, TN. Brownland Farm. No Frills 2, 3

Monthly Horse Sales/Adoptions Second Saturday: Gleason, TN. West TN Auction Barn. 330 Fence Rd. 6:30 pm. Chucky Greenway 731-571-8198

APRIL 7-8 Lynnville, TN. Circle G Ranch.

Dressage at Circle G. USEF/USDF rated. www.circlegranchevent.com/upcomingevents.html

Second & Fourth Saturday: Scotts Hill, TN. Scotts Hill Stockyard.

Info: James Linville 731-549-3523. facebook.com/scottshillstockyard

APRIL 12-15 Germantown, TN. GCHS Arena.

WTHJA Springtime Encore

APR. 13-14 Athens, TN. Chilhowee Shriner Rodeo (865)565-9154

APRIL 14 East TN Pleasure Walking Horse Show Tri-State Exhibition Center Cleveland, TN , 423-476-9310 www.tristateexhibitioncenter.com

APRIL 13-15 WTQHA Spring Fling Circuit. www.wtqha.org Tennessee Miller Coliseum MTSU Murfreesboro, TN www.mtsu.edu/tmc

APR. 14 Buchanan, TN. Milam’s Horsebarn, Hwy 218. Pro and Non-Pro Bull Riding and Mutton Busting. 8pm.

Call April 9th, 4-10 pm 731-642-8346.

Info 731-644-5665

APRIL 13-15 Harriman, TN. Roane State CC Expo Center.

TQHA Country Music.

Korry Bailey 931-265-4657

APRIL 14-15 Volunteer Ranch Horse Assn.

Agricenter Showplace Arena 7777 Walnut Grove Rd., Memphis, TN 901-757-7777 ext.7106 www.agricenter.org/showplace

APRIL 13-15 Murfreesboro, TN. Miller Coliseum. West TN QH Show.

Info: www.wtqha.org APR. 14 Barrel Racing Mason, TN. Coyote Run Arena. Winter Series.

Info: 901-355-3429 APR. 14 Knoxville, TN. Stonegate Farm.

ETHJA Show APR. 14 Nashville, TN. Walnut Trace Farm.

CTDA Schooling Show

APRIL 14-15 Franklin TN Tennessee HS Rodeo Association 731-658-5867; tnhsra.com APRIL 14-22 Waynesboro, TN. Buffalo River Trail Ride.

Info: 931-722-9170; buffalorivertrailride@live.com; www.brtr.com APRIL 18-22 Franklin, TN. Brownland Farm. Spring I

April 14, 2018 Lincoln County Horseman Association Open Show; Reining, Barrels, Ranch Horse based and Gaited 3 Wilkes Dr, Fayetteville, TN Mcclanahan36@gmail.com Www.tnlcha.com

APRIL 20-22 Dynamite Barrel Race Agricenter Showplace Arena 7777 Walnut Grove Rd., Memphis, TN 901-757-7777 ext.7106 www.agricenter.org/showplace

Please call before you haul. Always verify dates and times BEFORE you travel.

FREE CALENDAR of EVENTS LISTINGS: If you would like to include an event please Contact: Lisa Fetzner , 423-933-4968, Info@horsenranchmag.com

20

VOLUME 4 | ISSUE 3 2018

Say you saw it in HORSE N RANCH TM

May

APRIL 21-22 Ranch Horse Tri-State Exhibition Center Cleveland, TN , 423-476-9310 www.tristateexhibitioncenter.com

MAY 3-6 Germantown, TN. GCHS Arena.

WTHJA Memphis in May I

APRIL 21-22 TN Pony of the Americas Roane State Expo Center Roane State Community College, Harriman, Tn www.roanestate.edu

MAY. 4-5 Bristol, TN. Fox Hollow Riding Accadamy.

ETHJA Show MAY 4-6 Harriman, TN. Tri-State Exhibition Center.

East TN Cutting Horse Assn. Info: Lynn Hicks (423)741-1435

APR. 21-22 Knoxville, TN. Fiesta Farm.

ETHJA Show

MAY 5 Georgia Draft Horse Show Tri-State Exhibition Center Cleveland, TN www.tristateexhibitioncenter.com

APR. 21 Saddle Up Fundraiser For Ann Campbell Tennessee Livestock Center MTSU Murfreesboro, TN www.mtsu.edu/tlc

MAY 5 Franklin, TN. Harlinsdale Farm. CTDA Schooling Show

APRIL 24 ETSA; Tri-State Exhibition Center Cleveland, TN , 423-476-9310 www.tristateexhibitioncenter.com

MAY 5-6 East TN Cutting Horse Assn.

Roane State Expo Center Roane State Community College, Harriman, Tn; www.roanestate.edu

APRIL 25-29 Franklin, TN. Brownland Farm. Spring II APRIL 26-28 Southern Saddlebred Spring Fling Tennessee Miller Coliseum MTSU Murfreesboro, TN www.mtsu.edu/tmc

MAY 9-13 AQHA Lucky Seven QH Show Tennessee Miller Coliseum MTSU Murfreesboro, TN; www.mtsu.edu/tmc

April 27-29, 2018 - Jasper AL Alabama Governor’s Ride Faye Whittemore Farms 540-829-9555 *$50 rider fee for BOABH Trail Club covers all scheduled activities & banquet meal www.bestofamericabyhorseback.com

MAY 10-13 Germantown, TN. GCHS Arena.

WTHJA Memphis in May II

APRIL 27-28 East TN. Saddlebred Assn. Spring Classic Tri-State Exhibition Center Cleveland, TN , 423-476-9310 www.tristateexhibitioncenter.com

MAY 12 Ranch Horse Show Tri-State Exhibition Center Cleveland, TN www.tristateexhibitioncenter.com

APR. 27-28 Lebanon, TN. IPRA 2nd Sanction. www.lonestarrodeocompany.com

MAY 12 Buchanan, TN. Milam’s Horsebarn, Hwy 218.

Pro and Non-Pro Bull Riding and Mutton Busting. 8pm. Call May 7th, 4-10 pm 731-642-8346. Info: 731-644-5665.

APRIL 28 TN Paint Horse Club Roane State Expo Center Roane State Community College, Harriman, Tn; www.roanestate.edu APR. 28-29 Knoxville, TN. Penrose Farm.

ETHJA Show

VOLUME 4 | ISSUE 3 2018

MAY 12 Nashville, TN. Percy Warner Park.

Iroquois Steeplechase. www.iroquoissteeplechase.org

MAY. 12 Barrel Racing Estill Springs, TN. Estill Springs Arena NBHA. Info: Lana Blankenship 931-247-2340 MAY. 12-13 Talbot, TN. Walnut Grove Stables.

ETHJA Show

Say you saw it in HORSE N RANCH TM

MAY 17-20 TNRHA Spinning in the Rein Tennessee Miller Coliseum MTSU Murfreesboro, TN; www.mtsu.edu/tmc MAY 17-20 Jamestown, TN. East Fork Stables.

SHOBA Spring Fling MAY 19 Lebanon, TN. Meridian Equine Education Center.

MEEC/LFF Hunter Show.

Info: Cristin Jordan 615-289-7539 MAY. 19-20 Knoxville, TN. Select Sport Horses.

ETHJA Show MAY 19-20 NTRL Show Roane State Expo Center Roane State Community College, Harriman, Tn; www.roanestate.edu MAY 19-20 Lynnville, TN. Circle G Ranch.

Dressage at Circle G. USEF/USDF rated. www.circlegranchevent.com/upcomingevents.html MAY 23-27 Franklin, TN. Brownland Farm.

Nashville Country

MAY 31-JUN. 2 REGIONAL 4-H SHOW Roane State Expo Center Roane State Community College, Harriman, Tn; www.roanestate.edu

CLINICS/CLASSES

APR. 7-8: Senatobia, MS. XTreme Wylene Horsemanship Clinic. $400. Info: Irene O’Conner: ireneoconner@gmail.com APR. 19-21: Lynnville, TN. Circle G Ranch.

Ken McNabb Horsemanship Clinic. Info: https://www.circlegranchevent.com/ upcoming-events.html MAY 4-9: Lynnville, TN. Circle G Ranch.

Robert Langston Horsemanship Clinic.

Info: https://www.circlegranchevent.com/ upcoming-events.html MAY 5-6: Crossville, TN. Otter Point Farm.

Barb Gerbitz Horsemanship clinic. Info: Christie Walling Riek 309-781-4825; otterpointfarm@gmail.com MAY 19-20: Jacksonville, FL. Jacksonville Equestrian Center. Clinton Anderson Walkabout Tour. Info: 888-287-7432 downunderhorsemanship.com MAY 25-27: Lynnville, TN. Circle G Ranch.

Sean Patrick Clinic. Info: https://www. circlegranchevent.com/upcoming-events. html

SPECIAL EVENTS

MAY 25-26 Outlaw Pro Rodeo Tri-State Exhibition Center Cleveland, TN www.tristateexhibitioncenter.com

APR. 14: Martin, TN. UTM Ag Pavilion. 4 p.m. Info. Meeting. Miss Rodeo TN & Miss Teen Rodeo TN. Pageant. Info: Sue Lynn Perry rodeotenn@aol.com

MAY 26 Murfreesboro, TN. Roberson Equestrian Facility. CTDA Schooling Show

APR. 21: Knoxville, TN. UT College of Veterinary Medicine. Equine Podiatry Conference. Register by April 11. Info: Barbara Campbell 865-974-7264; cvmce@ utk.edu. vetmed.tennessee.edu/ce

MAY 26-27 IEA Western Semi Finals Roane State Expo Center Roane State Community College, Harriman, Tn; www.roanestate.edu MAY 27-28 Volunteer Ranch Horse Show Tennessee Miller Coliseum MTSU Murfreesboro, TN; www.mtsu.edu/tmc MAY 30-JUN. 3 Franklin, TN. Brownland Farm.

Nashville Classic MAY 31-JUN. 2 Central Region 4-H Show Tennessee Miller Coliseum MTSU Murfreesboro, TN; www.mtsu.edu/tmc

MAY 5: Collierville, TN. 916 Billy Bryant Road. Southern Rein’s Jockey & Juleps Ky Derby Party. Tickets $150-$200. Info: http://www.southernreins.org/2018jockeys-and-juleps JUN. 13-16: Cleveland, TN. Tri-State Exhibition center. Chattanooga Cleveland Charity Horse Show

Save the Date!

21

Going the DISTANCE

Long Distance HORSE HAULING

By Robert “TrailMeister” Eversole

T

is the season for horse riding and camping trips and all the stress that comes along for the ride when traveling with equines.

When the siren song of a new trail gets loud. Well, you’ve got to load that trailer and go. Sometimes those new trails are further away than you’re used to hauling and that alone can create some stress and certainly some questions about how to safely get from A to Nirvana.

My go to guy for this kind of information is my vet. Doc Peters of McKinlay & Peters Equine Hospital. Not only is Doc Peters a great DVM he’s a Cowboy Shooting pro who hauls his horses across the country on a regular basis. I dropped in on Doc Peters recently to ask about his thoughts on hauling safely. Here’s what I learned.

PREPARATION IS KEY The trailer and what you tow it with should be reliable. To ensure that your hauling vehicle and trailer are ready for the long haul check the following items at a bare minimum: • Trailer floor - Is it solid? Will it hold your animals safely?

• Electrical System – Are all your lights and brake connections operating?

• Tires - Are they sound and properly inflated? And the spare?

Your horses and mules also need to be prepared for the long haul.

A horse that has never been hauled before shouldn’t take an eighthour ride for his first introduction to trailering. Start with local trips, and bring along a buddy for your horse to reduce his stress even more.

Besides helping your horse learn that the trailer is a happy place you’ll want to make sure that his traveling papers are up to date.

Since I do a fair bit of interstate hauling my paperwork includes at a minimum, a current negative Coggins test and a certificate of veterinary inspection or health certificate and a brand inspection.

Requirements for your area may vary, but your vet can help point you in the right direction.

Check, in advance, with your veterinarian for any additional requirements you may need for the state you’re visiting as well as the states you may be driving through to get there.

Remember that equine rules and regulations are different from state to state and they can change without notice. Therefore, it’s important to discuss your travel plans with your veterinarian to determine what documentation is required for your trip. Another thing to ask your vet about are common diseases in the area you’re planning on visiting. For example, here in the Pacific Northwest rabies isn’t a huge concern but in the south, it’s much more prevalent. Those vaccinations need to be done well before you load the trailer.

Other topics to talk with your vet about BEFORE the trip include: • Equine vital signs – Learn how to take them and what NORMAL is for your animal.

• What to keep in your First Aid kit – You do have one, right?

• Feeding and watering during the drive. How much and how often.

DURING THE TRIP One, of many things that I learned from Doc Peters was the 22

importance of bedding in the trailer. Previously I had avoided it because I used Soft-Ride boots and shavings are a mess and fly around. Doc enlightened me to the miracle of adding water to keep the dust down, provide cooling, and add a welcome cushion against the jarring of the road. He’s also a fan of Soft Rides and uses them along with a healthy layer of moist shavings. Fly masks will help keep any errant shavings out of your pony’s eyes.

QUICK TIP - Not only does a thick layer of shavings help keep your animals comfortable as they roll along it also encourages them to urinate. If you can’t hold your water for the length of a trip don’t expect your horse to do so.

Slow feed hay nets will help keep your animals more content during the drive and give them something to do as well as keep their delicate “innards” gurgling along.

I’ve always soaked my hay before a trip to help put a little water into the ponies.

You may think otherwise but standing in a horse trailer takes a lot of effort for your horse. It’s a constant balancing act for your horse, as you speed up, slow down, and twist into and out of traffic. Be mindful when you’re hauling and think about your precious cargo in the rear. Trailer drivers should gradually increase and decrease speeds and change lanes and turn corners much more slowly than what you might normally do. Be the turtle not the jack rabbit. If you want to know what you’re putting your animals through find a safe place to have a friend take you on a trailer ride. I guarantee it’ll be an eye-opening experience.

Doc and I both agreed that stops every 4 hours or so (for me about the time it takes to empty a fuel tank) are a great way to reduce stress on animals and humans alike. Half an hour is plenty of time to refuel the truck, refuel the two legged creatures, offer the ponies water (don’t be surprised if they don’t drink much) and re-fill their hay net. Be kind and try to park in a shady spot.

I could go on and on about the good points I picked up from Doc Peters. Unfortunately, I’ve run out of room for this month! Talk with your vet, and get their recommendations for your next “Long Haul” they’ll be able to help you make the trip safely.

Robert Eversole; And visit www.

Trail Meister Owner and TrailMeister.com Chief Trail Boss.

513-374-9021; for the largest and robert@trailmeister.com; most accurate guide www.TrailMeister.com to horse trails in the TrailMeister is The Largest Equine Trail world. and Camping Guide in the World

VOLUME 4 | ISSUE 3 2018

Say you saw it in HORSE N RANCH TM

Jacobs MFG LLC 60’ ROUND PEN

Round Pens Include:

• 1-6’ Ride-Through Gate • 15-12” Panels • Panels are 6’ Tall, 4 Tube, 16 Ga.

1.5” Diameter Tube...... $2,299 1.75” Diameter Tube.... $2,499 2” Diameter Tube......... $2,799

If you buy anything but HOT DIP GALVANIZED PANELS you are buying tomorrows rust!

Hot Dip Galvanized Panels 20 Year NO RUST Warranty 574.583.3883 • rick@jacobsmfg.net www. jacobsmfg.net

! r e v e F g n Spri

WOW- Looking for a pre-loved living quarters?

ARROWQUIP -

TAEP Qualified and in stock !

Many pre-loved living quarters in stock. We’re getting them serviced in now. Check the website often for the current crop!

Host of Barrett 24-32 footers on hand.

Great pricing, lots of various features.

Check them out online or in person!

Sundowner Rancher Express- This value minded all-aluminum stock trailer features a full aluminum floor, cut gate, rear swing with slider, storage area in nose, and 2 escape doors. Priced & built to move you along. Torsion axles, radial tires, and more. 16’ at $12,834; 16’ Bumper $10,490; 20’ at $15,444.

Lakota Bighorn DOUBLE SLIDE with custom kitchen island plan. Only 29’ L. Pure Luxury, and ONLY $77,196 CLOSEOUT PRICE.

Full maintenance, service & repair facility.

Collision, storm damage, and more repaired.

WE STOCK ARROWQUIP

Huge selection of Lakota slideouts in 13-17’ LQs. Come pick yours out today!

The all-new Lakota Colts are arriving! An all-aluminum LQ trailer, priced like used! This 9x13 Living quarters has all power everything.

Full bathroom and kitchen. And rolls for only $31,528, or about $280/Month.

Let us freshen up your trailer!

Sundowner SuperSport. A great all-aluminum trailer in 2 & 3 horse. Great starter trailer, or the perfect run around.

On hand, starting at $12,257.

Exiss 7X00 series. Nice all-aluminum, with front dresser and folding rear tack. Extruded sides, aluminum wheels, HD drop windows and more. A great value- 3, 4 and 6 horse in stock now. Just in, and ready for you.

“Located beneath the BIG American Flag”

on Hwy 231 between Murfreesboro & Shelbyville TN

Delta 500 Series BP stock trailers. 14’ and 16’ on hand, all with 4 wheel brakes, spare tire kits, treated flooring, PPG paint and much more. Starting at $5,314.00

Call Toll Free

866.484.0420 SelectTrailer.com or 931.685.4040

Come by for the latest selection, or check our website!

All prices are plus applicable taxes, tag, & title fees. Payment prices are quoted with 10% plus T, T, & L down with qualifying credit and a 720 or better score. Call for specifics in your case.