Atlanta Horse Connections December 2019 Volume 30

30 TH EDITION - 2019

DRESSAGE FOR

MAKING A

DIFFERENCE IN

EVENTERS

2019

HELPING YOUR HORSE THROUGH

WINTER

FIT the BIT The art of being a Loriner

SPORT

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ENTERTAINMENT

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T R AV E L

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STYLE

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COMPETITION

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WELLNESS

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10

LIFEST YLE

Where Did My Cents Go? Small Gifts

INTERNATIONAL Horses and the Royals

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14 18 22 24

DRESSAGE

INSIDE 26 28

Correct Connect

Dressage for Eventers Fit the Bit Of a Year Gone Past

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Moving On

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SHORT STIRRUPS Silly Gil

WELLNESS

Maknig a Difference in 2019 Help Your Horse Through Winter

I am always saying to the riders, give give give. But the problem is that the riders do not feel secure

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what’s

enough so they close the horse in front.

That is wrong, you close the horse from behind, that is the first thing and give rein and the horse can go in front.

– Klaus Balkenhol

Penny Morse Editor Another year draws to an end! It seems only yesterday everyone was panicking about the year 2000 and everything would come to a grinding halt, and here we are about to start 2020!

2019 was not one of the proudest years for this country, or other countries worldwide, nor for the horse world. Hate has become the norm; bullying is at an all time high; horses being stolen and killed for meat; individuals making bad choices with the excuse of everyone does it. At the same time advances in equine veterinary care has surpassed all other years.

Heidi Caldwell Creative Director

We lost some of our riders to accidents that could have been prevented, and horses who should never have been put in a situation where they too lost their lives. However I do see change on the horizon. Professional riders seem to be more open to talking about horsemanship, safety and improving conditions. I want to see every rider, at all times wearing a helmet when mounted. So glad to see that helmets not top hats will be worn in dressage competitions. I hope to see people get smarter; asking more questions rather than accepting what they are told.

Contributing Writers Melissa Allen Yvonne Barteau

The decrease in schooling horses being available for people to learn on, saddens me. I understand the budgetary reasons, but where horse racing is the Sport of Kings, I believe learning to ride is a skill that should be offered and encouraged. There is so much young talent out there, that does not have a hefty bank account to support them, so they tend to be ignored. However, some tend to be their own worse enemy. Working students have become paid barn help and have lost the desire to learn. If you want to be good, you have to start at the bottom and be willing to learn, work hard, and eventually be given the opportunity to ride the good horses.

Dr. Erin S. Groover Carolyn Haward Dr. Aime K. Johnson Penny Morse Lindsay Nieves

Parents have to realize that if your child has a passion, let them see all aspects and learn, and not be interested in how much they will make. You cannot put a price on learning, and becoming knowledgeable. Let 2020 become a kinder year. Let’s not be so judgmental, especially as we all have a skeleton or two in our closet. Let’s be willing to step up and do the right thing, even if it is not going to win a popularity contest.

Amber Spiler Florence Wetzel Bill Woods

A final note; December 28th there is a benefit being held at Chattahoochee Hills Eventing for Drew Olsen, who is battling brain cancer. There is a Hunter Pace, Ride a Test and open jumper rounds starting with ground poles. My family has personally been friends with Leslie, Drew and Christopher for going on 20 years. They are family to us, and I hope to see many of you there supporting Drew in his recovery.

Thank you all for your support this year. As the horse world changes, we hope to keep you up to date and informed. We look forward to the 2020 Olympics in Japan, and hope to see our favorite riders with medals!

Merry Christmas to you all, and a very happy and prosperous and safe new year.

Contributing Photographers Taylor Anderson Yvonne Barteau Jennifer Bishop Heidi Caldwell Dean Graham Carolyn Haward

The Bear Creek Hunt ©Jennifer Bishop

Atlanta Horse Connections Magazine is part of City Horse Connections, an equestrian network bringing the equine world together, one city at a time.

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All articles and pictures are owned and copyrighted by City Horse Connections, a subsidiary of JJP Group.

Reproduction of copyrighted material, without prior permission of the copyright owner, is illegal according to 17 U.S.C. Reproductions of copyright materials apply not only to traditional works such as books, photographs, drawings, etc., but also digital media such as music, movies and software. ©2019.

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Penny Morse

Where Did

MY CENTS Go? You have joined the horse owning world, and it is starting to make a bigger impact on your budget than you thought it would. It started with lessons and then you found a trainer who saw something in your child (or you), and it seemed logical to invest in a horse and everything that goes with it. Afterall, talents should never be wasted and you should never ignore an opportunity. It didn’t take much to convince you!

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LIFESTYLE

When you are new to the horse world and get you first horse you will need equipment. But ask the owners what kind of bridle and bit was used, perhaps they can provide you with the one they used.

I see it all the time, especially with parents who are passionate about investing in their children’s future, and the belief that one day their child could be on the Olympic team. When you are applying for yet another credit card, because the others are maxed out, it is time to sit down and seriously regroup.

Admittedly, there are fewer and fewer barns that supply schooling horses. For them, economically it is better to have horse owners boarding and taking lessons, rather than riders coming once a week for a lesson, but there are still some that offer lesson horses. You do have other options.

Look for a free lease. There are quite a few young riders who go off to college, and cannot take their horse with them.

Having you lease the horse for the cost of paying the board and insurance, and the expenses, saves you the initial expense of horse buying and chances are you will get a horse to ride that normally would be out of your price range. You will be paying for all the expenses, but you have your money assigned for horse buying safely in the bank. Make sure you have the monthly expenses written down, plus 20% for the unexpected, and multiply that by 12.

That is how much you need in a savings account, just in case something happened with your monthly income.

Now you will need equipment. Saddle, bridle, pads, boots, blankets, grooming kit...once you enter the tack store you will see things to buy you never thought you would need, probably don’t need, but you are getting them anyway because the nice assistant advised you to do so!

Let’s get off that merry-go-round and be smart! Go to a good saddle fitter, and see what she has for sale. She will fit the saddle to your horse and you, for more than half the price of a new one. Ask the owner what bridle was used, and the trainer what she suggests, then look around for a used one. The owner may let you use the bridle they used.

Everything else you can buy used. New is fabulous but in the horse world, new gets dirty very fast and after a week any new item can look the same as the used item!

The $300 breeches and the $600 jacket are not going to help anyone improve their riding skills. A good pair of boots will be of help, but it is fine to start with paddock boots and chaps.

I could sit here and list everything I have experienced or seen over the past 60 years, but the best piece of advice you will ever get, is be

smart. If you think your trainer is asking for non-related or needed expenses, question it. Talk to other horse owners and get their opinion.

Find a trainer that can walk the walk and not just talk the talk. Make sure they have ridden consistently and for a considerable amount of time in the discipline you choose. For example, I would never ask a hunter jumper trainer to teach anyone how to ride a cross country course, but I would ask them to teach a stadium course.

I realize they both involve jumping, but they are ridden totally different and a cross country course has technical questions on it that you will not see in a stadium course.

At the end of the day, if you stick with what you can afford, and remain smart, you can enjoy a sport you love without the unnecessary stress of wondering if you can afford to pay the electric bill, or worse, if they are going to foreclose on your house. Peace of mind is the first thing you should have when you get on the back of your horse, so all of your concentration is on what you and he are doing.

Enjoy your new horse!

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LIFESTYLE

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Lindsey Holcombe Nieves

Small

GIFTS WITH EACH TURN around the sun, the inevitable wane of daylight culminates to close out the year and we come to a point of reflection.

Some years we end on an incredible high, seemingly every mountain climbed and every goal reached.

And some years are hard. For me, it’s been one of those hard years.

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Injury after injury slowing my progress, as well

taught me that love sometimes means letting go and

as coming to terms with selling the horse I thought

he freed me to become a better version of myself

I would own forever. At each bump in the road I

for my next horse. I’ve found myself at the close of

could feel my enthusiasm for the sport I love so

the year facing new challenges but knowing that I’m

dearly fading along the way. The victories are easy

resilient. Instead of letting the down spots weigh

to overlook when the challenges pile up.

on me, I’ve been better at recognizing that a bad day doesn’t mean a bad life.

But now that I’ve reached this point of reflection I can see a little bit more clearly the small gifts

Lastly, the gifts of trust and love. Slowly but surely

that were given to me along the rocky road of

my new horse shows me that I can be confident

2019. Firstly, the gift of friendship. For the many

in him, in myself and in us as a team. Even on

times I cried tears or needed help, I had friends

days when I don’t ride and I just go stand in his

who stepped up to make life a little bit easier.

stall and kiss his nose, he looks at me with his soft

These same friends also cheered the loudest at

brown eyes, lowers his head and accepts me. He

my successes. They

sees me at my worst and

brought me food and

Even if I never compete again, it would be

at my best and he doesn’t

took care of my dogs

enough to love this creature who lets an

judge me. He doesn’t care

when I was injured.

They rode my horse

imperfect soul sit on his back and feel joy.

and sent me pictures

what my job title is or whether or not I’ve met my sales goals for the

when I couldn’t go out to the barn. They made

month. He’s genuine and sweet and I’m grateful

me laugh and, most importantly, they made the

for his nicker when I come into the barn. Even if

difficult times worth it.

I never compete again, it would be enough to love this creature who lets an imperfect soul sit on his

Secondly, the gift of resilience. I learned this year

back and feel joy.

that I am tougher than I knew. The injuries slowed me down, but I never quit. And even though my

I’ll continue to make goals for 2020. I need to

horse and I were not the best match I can see how

because it’s who I am. But this year my primary goal

he taught me so many lessons I needed to learn

is to maintain a spirit of gratitude in the challenges

about myself. He taught me that I am capable and strong and skilled at handling whatever he threw at me, whether I wanted to or not. He

and the successes. To find the small gifts and be grateful for every day I’m able to live this dream of mine on the back of a horse.

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Horses Royals and the

Carolyn Haward FEI International Show Jumping Judge, Greece

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INTERNATIONAL

The horses in the picture are not real and unfortunately, I haven’t yet received an invitation to ride in the featured coach!! In fact, this is the Gold State Coach which is only used for such important occasions as Royal Coronations and Weddings. It is kept in the Royal Mews in the grounds of Buckingham Palace in London and is in fact so heavy and large as to require the partial dismantling of the wall to get it out and back in again! The Palace (or at least the State Rooms within the palace) together with The Royal Mews can be viewed by the public on most days throughout the year and I would highly recommend a visit whenever you are able to make it to London.

1 1. Princes William and Harry playing polo 2. Princess Diana and Prince Charles in the infamous gold coach 3. Prince Philip with his 4 horses and carriage 4. Trooping of the Color 5.Meghan Markle and Prince Harry in front of Windsor Castle on their wedding day 6. The Queen and her personal assistant

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It was on a summer’s day this year that I went to Buckingham Palace and saw the interior for the first time, taking this photo in the mews, or stables, within the grounds of this royal residence. This started me musing (yes, musing in The Mews!) about the importance of horses to the present British Royal Family and the role that horses have played throughout their lives...and indeed, throughout the history of the Monarchy. Apart from the Royal Household Cavalry, of which the

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Queen is the head, all the members of the family have been involved in horses in one capacity or another.

The Queen herself is an experienced horsewoman who even today at the age of 93 can be spotted out riding near the river Thames in the area of Windsor Castle. In the photo she can be seen on a horse named Carltonlima Emma and accompanied by her head groom, Terry Pendry. In her youth, she would even

ride side-saddle, dressed in full military uniform, at formal events such as the Trooping of the Color. This is a ceremony held in June each year in Horse Guards Parade (the name of a large square which is located close to Buckingham Palace) in order to celebrate the official birthday of the Monarch. Infantry and cavalry regiments parade before the Queen to salute her, and in Hyde Park units of the Royal Horse Artillery pulling ceremonial gun carriages fire a 21 gun salute. Until AHC

INTERNATIONAL

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1. Windsor Castle 2. Princess Anne eventing 3. The Queen herself 4. The Queen, Princess Anne and Zara Phillips....three generations on horseback 5. Kate Middleton and Prince William in a carriage on their wedding day

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1986 Her Majesty always took the salute mounted on her horse. Between 1969 and 1986 it was always her favorite horse, called Burmese, which had the honor of being ridden on these special occasions. In 1981, whilst participating in a public ceremonial parade, the Queen demonstrated her riding skills when a young member of the public fired six blank shots, “in order,” he said, “to become famous.” Burmese was momentarily startled, but Queen Elizabeth rapidly brought him under control unaided and then continued to parade down The Mall (the long road which leads to the palace)...and all of this while sitting sidesaddle and upright on the horse! Age having caught up with her, since 1987 the Queen continues to attend the ceremony but is driven in a horse drawn coach.

Her husband, Prince Philip, meanwhile, used to participate in carriage driving competitions and represented Great Britain in three European and one world championship. He recently could also be seen driving his four black horses and carriage around the estate grounds of Windsor Castle, an hour’s car drive away from London. He may have lost 12

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his driving license this year, after causing a minor road accident, but he continues at the age of 97 to enjoy his passion for carriage driving!

Windsor itself is host each springtime to The Royal Windsor Horse Show and Pageant which is open to the Public upon purchase of the appropriate entry ticket.

Therein it was certainly not unusual in years gone by to be busily occupied admiring one thing or another - only to glance to one’s side to find a member of royalty standing adjacent in similar admiration!

All the royal offspring ride. In fact, the Queen’s only daughter, Princess Anne, was an international 3-day eventer and competed for Great Britain at the Montreal Olympic Games of 1976. She was European Eventing Champion in 1971 and won silver medals in both the individual and team events at the European Championships in 1975. Apart from that, she was also the President of FEI from 1986 to 1994. Her daughter, Zara, follows in her mother’s footsteps, having won the Eventing World Championship in Aachen in 2006.

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The Queen’s eldest son and heir to the throne, Prince Charles, is no less of a rider. He often played polo and went hunting. In 1990 he famously broke his arm during a polo match! His sons, William and Harry both love to play polo and take part in parades whilst mounted.

As for the glorious gold coach that I saw and photographed at Buckingham Palace, it is not the only coach to be used on formal occasions. The beautiful glass coach took Princess Diana to St Paul’s Cathedral to marry her Prince back in 1981...how long ago that seems now!

Then only last year a royal State Landau carried Prince Harry and Meghan Markle around the town of Windsor after their wedding in St George’s Chapel on that glorious 2018 sunny day in May. They love the town of Windsor so much that they decided to make it their home. They live at Frogmore House in the grounds of Windsor Castle.

Pictures speak a thousand words so enjoy these photos. Make a point of including a visit to these two royal homes when you visit London. You won’t regret it.

MAGS MOBILE TACK

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CORRECT CONNECT IS A REIN and glove system, designed

by Olympian, Jill Henneberg. It combines matching velcro on the reins and gloves to provide a secure and steady contact. The “hook” part of the velcro is strategically placed on the bottom of the fingers and top of the palm, to ensure a contact without feeling stuck. The “loop” part of the velcro is on the reins. The reins are made of quality leather and the gloves come in a cloth material or leather. The idea of Correct Connect came from an instructor’s desire to have riders keep their reins a consistent length and ride up to the contact with their leg. They’re also a very valuable tool in jumping, as they enable the rider to rebalance after a fence more quickly and again, ride up to the fences from their leg into a steady hand. Correct Connect is being used by amateurs and professionals alike. It’s been a very useful tool in multiple disciplines as well as

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25 TH EDITION - 2018

28 TH EDITION - 2019

2018

W EG

BREEDING WOES

meet the new

DRESSAGE TESTS

A STAR IS REBORN

HE’S GOT IT ALL...OR

PONY UP

from rider to pho

FOR A CAUSE

DOES HE?

tographer to ride

r once again

the retired

RACEHORSE PROJECT

finals

ONE VOICE

to change equine welfare SPORT

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NT ENTERTAINME

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T R AV E L

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STYLE

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COMPETITION

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WELLNESS

RING ETIQUETTE

BECO

MING A WORKING STUDEN T IS IT

RULES TO LIVE BY SPORT

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ENTERTA INMENT

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T R AV E L

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STYLE

FOR YOU?

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COMPET ITION

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WELLNE SS

STAY INFORMED!

From local stories and trainers to national news and competitions, Atlanta Horse Connections is covering all things important to the Equine Community!

SUBSCRIPTIONS ARE NOW AVAILABLE! 4 issues per year email: designonpenny@yahoo.com

Boarding • Training • Lessons Dressage • Jumping • Cross Country 17 Stall Barn, Hot and Cold Wash Rack 12’ x 12’ and 12’ x 16’ Stalls Tack room with individual tack trunks Individual turnout available Full size dressage arena with lights Insured • Owner on premises

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Dressage is the basic training of the horse but it’s how you think about it that makes the difference. I’ve been teaching a long time and I’ve not only taught dressage riders, but also barrel racers, western riders, jumpers and eventers. Every discipline is different but it’s all about the balance of the horse and the effectiveness of the rider. – Melissa Allen

D R E S S AG E

©Heidi Caldwell

FOR

EVENTERS

Above: Sara Beth Anton riding Q-Course, a Selle Francais stallion owned by Melissa Hyde Town training with Melissa Allen

THE EVENT RIDERS I TEACH know the importance of dressage, or as they call it, “flatwork”. Often times it comes down to who’s dressage score is lower to win an event. You want that score in the low 20’s? You’ll have to prepare your horse to get that. I think one of the biggest challenges for eventers is that they need their horse hot for the cross country to make time, but relaxed and swinging and soft for dressage.

The intensity riders put into cross country and jumping is imperative (and exhilarating for them!)

but the same intensity should also be put into your dressage training. I’ve heard riders comment about “getting through” a dressage test so they can go do what excites them, galloping and jumping big jumps.

If you put the time and energy into your dressage, it can be just as exciting! The feel the horse gives you when they are listening, connected and through is a feeling of partnership and power contained.

Dancing with your horse down centerline with fluidity and suppleness is a beautiful thing!

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Event rider Jade Anderson aboard Fernhill Oreo

If you prepare yourself and your horse to ride each step of the test, you’ll have better outcomes. Practice riding correct geometry, riding perfect circles not only for the sake of getting a higher score but will also ensure (and show the judge) that you are riding BOTH sides of the horse. There is never a time when there are not two sides to a horse! Ride each corner to prepare for the next movement, that gives you time to balance your horse for what’s coming 1next. That’s like walking the course to know which angle or spot you need to take a jump to prepare you for the next one.

Practice transitions where you need to perform them, it’s much harder to ask for a transition when it has to be done AT the letter and not just on a circle when you are ready.

Event riders are bold and seek the thrill of going fast, which usually means they are capable

©Dean Graham

TRA I N I NG

TIPS

Memorize your dressage test by riding every step of it as you practice it in your head.

Riding correct bending lines ensures that you are riding both sides of the horse.

Remember that there are two balances a rider must maintain control of, longitudinal and lateral.

You can have contact without having connection, but you cannot have a connection without contact.

Training is developing the horse, to develop anything you must have patience and preparation Never stop learning.

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Jade Anderson aboard Fernhill Q

Sara Beth Anton aboard Q-Course, with Melissa Allen

©Taylor Anderson

Noel Vineyard riding her KWPN mare Harper

©Heidi Caldwell

riders. But are you in balance? Do you collapse on one side? Do you draw your legs up or grip? Is one shoulder higher than the other? All of these can make your horse unbalanced underneath you.

If you’re collapsed on one side, your weight is to the opposite side which will cause your horse to want to go that way. If you draw up one shoulder that will pull your weight off that seat bone therefore putting more weight on the other.

If you draw your legs up or grip that makes your hip flexors tight, blocks your seat from following and therefore won’t allow the horse to be able to move through the body and be connected.

All of what I’ve mentioned above also affects the riders overall balance, which leads to hands to not be steady and soft.

Then you rely on your hands and arms for

©Heidi Caldwell

balance rather than developing a deeper seat with a strong core to stay in balance.

suppleness and softness that is desired for your dressage test.

Developing your seat, your balance and your horses balance isn’t just for the dressage ring. You need this for your jumping as well! When your horse understands how to listen to your seat, you can collect them without your hands. This creates better balance coming up to a jump, then the horse can use its hind legs more under which helps them jump better. It also helps prevent them falling in or out on turns to make a better line going to a jump.

I hope this information helps you get lower scores in your dressage and more wins under your belt!

Now when you think about dressage, it’s not just about riding a pattern, it’s about training and balance. Practice your “flatwork” with the mentality that you are developing yourself and your horse to achieve better balance, both laterally and longitudinally. This will greatly improve your horse’s way of going and create more

Melissa Allen is a USDF FEI certified Instructor.

She is a USDF bronze, silver and gold medalist and is based near Charlotte, NC and operates out Dream Catcher Equestrian Facility. madressagellc.com Follow her training group at Dressage Training Tips on FaceBook!

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Florence Wetzel

FIT the I am a Loriner.

THE WORD IS SO RARE, the unknowing may say obsolete, that it does not even appear in the Oxford English Dictionary! My field of interest and someday hopeful expertise is ‘Lorinery Science’. Most folks today, regardless of whether they have or have no association with horses will admit they have no idea that such a field exists let alone that there is either a need for or interest in such study. A quick Google search of the word lorinery will reveal the Worshipful Company of Loriners, a Medieval English group or guild (established in 1261) that made and sold bits, bridles, stirrups, spurs and various bridle, harness and saddle parts. But, don’t be deceived, the Loriner’s Company is very much alive, active and extremely relevant today as one of their primary focus’ is the welfare of the horse through rider education.

The search for the right bit has been going on for over 5,000 years. Yes, I said 5,000. Following the domestication of horses as a food source, it only took about 500 years for an early equestrian become interested in getting on one

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to of

those animals. Once that happened there came the immediate realization of the acute need to actually steer and hopefully stop said beastie, challenges we all still face today.

Through the centuries many variations of bits have come and some quickly gone. But there are four which have proven themselves resilient staples, they are the loose ring snaffle (either single or double jointed), straight bar or Mullin, fixed cheek bits (Egg-butts, D-rings, and Full Cheeks), and Revolvers. Early bits made of antler, bone, wood, rope, sinew, and twisted horse tail hair, gave way to various metals, then in the late 1980’s rubber and plastic, to common day sophisticated alloys.

Making significant impact into understanding the dynamics between horse and rider and the resulting influence on their way of going is today’s ability to enlist sophisticated research and engineering techniques. Through the use of various technologies, we now have detailed insight into the importance of the bit’s role as the direct communication conduit to the horse. Over all of this and continuing through time is concern for the welfare of the horse.

Those who are associated with horses either use themselves or often hear the terms, communication, connection, and feel. One of the primary and most important ways we accomplish any of this is through, yes, the bit.

As a bit fitter, my primary job is to improve the rider’s ability to communicate appropriately and with the least disruption to their horses’ way of going and to improve the ability of the horse to balance themselves to accomplish the job being asked. To become a certified bit fitter, one studies

What is involved in a bit fitting? It starts with inspecting each horse’s mouth. Once I have done that and looked at their current tack, I’ll ask the rider to describe their ride, what does it feel like? From all of this I get the information I need to begin the actual process of selecting a better bit, which fits correctly and which allows the rider to improve their ability to communicate.

engineering, physics, metallurgy, math (lots and lots of math) to understand the various angles between the horse’s mouth, head, body and complicating it all the rider’s influence on the reins. We read patents to understand how various bit designs were intended to work. But most importantly we need to study and understand how horses move. This combined with the ever-varying position and habits of various riders makes this a Herculean undertaking.

in addition to having completed rigorous study through the Neue Schule Academy have attended additional training in the U.K. to become LANTRA certified. This is similar to receiving certification as a master saddler but for bits, bitting, and bridle fitting. Neue Schule is a U.K. company committed to the research and design of bits and rider education. Their mantra, what is good for the horse, is more important today than ever.

Currently there are five LANTRA certified bit fitters in North America. These persons

So, what does a bit fitter do? First, we inspect the mouth of the horse being AHC

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fitted. Does the horse have a short or long smile, thick or thin lips, fat tongue, flat pallet, or prominent bars? Each horse should be sized with a sizing stick (similar to a ruler) to determine the correct bit size. About 70% of the bits I encounter are too large. Considering that I fit hundreds and hundreds of horses each year this is a staggering number. A bit which is too large allows it to slide from side to side lessening the ability of the bit to function as it was designed. Then too, I encounter bits which are way too small leading to sores from rubs and pinching. Frequently I encounter bits which are on the bridle upside down. The rider will tell me that they didn’t know that it made a difference. Well hear it here, it definitely does. Bits have a left and right, a top and bottom, and a front and back. Having the bits on correctly means they can work as they were designed.

Once I’ve looked at the horses’ mouth and current tack, I’ll ask the rider to describe their ride, what does it feel like? From all of this I get the information I need to begin the actual process of selecting a better bit, which fits correctly and which allows the rider to improve their ability to communicate. Sometimes we nail it on the first try. It’s rewarding to see a horse going relaxed and attentive, mouth closed, back swinging, eye soft. Then there are those times when we might try a number of bits. What determines if we try one or more? Sometimes it’s the horse and sometimes it’s the rider’s ability to feel. As the fitter I’ll often make adjustments to the bridle or if necessary, make recommendations to improve bridle fit.

Again, it’s the welfare of the horse. An illfitting bridle would be similar to wearing shoes that are either too small or too large, neither present a comfortable situation.

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Most people know that bits have a left and a right, but did you also know they also have a top and bottom, and a front and back?

As a bit fitter, I’ve fitted for dressage, jumpers, eventing, hunters, racing, equitation, fox hunting, parade, performing, posse and trail riding horses. I’ve fitted Morgans, Mustangs, PRE, Standardbreds, Lusitanos, Andalusians, Gypsy Vanners, Westphalians, Hanoverians, Frieslands; Dutch, Danish, Swedish, Irish Sport, Thoroughbreds, Knabstruppers, Lipizzaners, Arabians, Russian, Polish and Czech bred, Connemaras, Belgians, Clydesdales, and a variety of draft breed mixes, and the list goes on. From a mini to those overly large horses 19h+ they all deserve to have a correctly fitted bit.

More and more owners are calling me out to do their horses’ first bits. They recognize the need for taking the guess work out of it and starting out correctly. First double bridles in dressage are also important. No owner or rider wants to create a mouth or tongue evasion problem. Once created they can prove difficult to correct.

Having done this for a number of years, I have had no small number of trainers say to me, “I can’t tell you how that bit works, but I can tell if the horse likes it”. Things that make you go ‘hmmm’. As a bit fitter, I believe it important to explain how the bit works and why for a specific horse I’ve chosen a particular bit. Again, it’s a factor of education and doing what is in the best interest of the horse.

I could go on and on but believe that by this point in our conversation there should be folks reading this who are beginning to ask themselves, “how does my horses’ bit fit, do I have the right bit, is there a better bit out there to allow us to preform even better?”

I am not saying that I, or any other bit fitter, have a magic wand but sometimes the right bit can do amazing things.

LANTRA-certified Florence Wetzel is available for bit fittings and can be contacted through Facebook @TryMyBits

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Bill Woods

of a

year

gone past “IF THIS EVER CHANGING WORLD we live in makes you give in and cry...” No, obviously I didn’t write that. That was Sir Paul. I didn’t write, “Drums keep pounding rhythm to the brain...” either. That was Sonny. And I didn’t write any of the hectic, turbid lyrics to We Didn’t Start the Fire, although I can relate to all of the above. It’s a wonder that the landscape– both political and cultural–which we inhabit gives us any opportunity to relate to the natural world that seems so far away anymore. Or that we can slow time enough to bask in the quiet relationship that one horse/one person can share. Thank God we are still able to. It may be all that saves us. As the year passes, I could congratulate my friends, my students who have achieved milestones–a Gold Medal, a Silver, a Bronze.

Or a day when everything fell into placed and there was harmony and communication and Oneness. And I’m

22

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all too aware that some need my approbation to feel legitimized. Perhaps it’s a hole in my teaching that they need this. Or maybe as they progress, that boost will become less necessary. Yes, it’s all about the journey.

But competition or lessons can provide mile markers so the journey isn’t an endless slog across a trackless wasteland. What it comes down to is this–for all your travail and angst and toil, are you a better person for it?

Whether you’ve triumphed or not yet lived up to your expectations, have you found in yourself a strength that you didn’t know was there? If so, you have succeeded.

•

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Bill Woods

?

moving on

WHEN IS IT TIME? It’s a question that haunts many of us. Perhaps it’s part of the American psyche as proposed by Frederick Jackson Turner? The story goes that in pioneer days some settlers knew it was time to move on when they could see the smoke from a neighbors’ chimney.

Or did Max Weber describe the feeling’s roots a few years later in The Protestant Ethic and the

Spirit of Capitalism? Between that and Richard Hofstadter’s treatise on Social Darwinism have we concluded that Life is a zero sum game? That we must never be satisfied, never be good enough, never be complacent? None of it is very Zen, is it?

Which brings me to this letter (annotated) from a student who raises issues which I know run through many minds from time to time.

When is it time to move on to a “better horse”? I have amazing rides and continue to learn and improve. Not many can say they took a simple quarter horse out of a field and in 5 years are schooling 3rd level. 5 years ago this now almost 42 year old had little clue what she was doing! I know we aren’t going to the Olympics or going to score through

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the roof on the movements but it seems like we are doing more than just 20 meter circles. And we can go out in the middle of nowhere to trail ride without any worries.

Jumping? Not very high, but we go every Wednesday and have a hoot. I am not that bouncy anymore and can’t afford to be laid up. My seat is a lot better than it was but I am pretty sure I couldn’t stay on some big mover that had different ideas of what the lesson was that day. And despite what some people think–I cannot afford a fancy schoolmaster. Besides, I am having so much fun learning how to train a horse myself.

I try to find opportunities to ride other horses when I can and it has helped a lot. I am not “not looking.” I know I will have at least a few more horses in my life. I guess I just want to know what the rush is when things seem to be going along better than I ever dreamed–or was I supposed to be

further along by now if I had a “better” horse? Another question is “What is a ‘better’ horse, because my guy is pretty damn awesome to me! (signed) D.V.

house or their car or their spouse forever.

Others will be happy until a neighbor appears with what they perceive as a better one. Relative deprivation is the operant

If your friends are keeping track of how long it's taking you to get there,”I’d say that’s more their problem than yours.

Just as there are “horses for courses,” there are horses that suit one person’s needs to a “T” while the same horse might fall short in any of a number of ways in someone else’s eyes. In this case if you’re looking for permission not to send him down the road and buy another, you have it from me!

If your friends are keeping track of how long it’s taking you to “get there,” I’d say that’s more their problem than yours. Some people can be perfectly happy with their

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term, spawning an insidious condition which I’m told the Bible warns us against.

If a rider has specific goals which I know are unfulfillable with the horse she has, I will suggest a change (if I am asked). That doesn’t sound like the personal situation you’re describing. The Boss wrote, “You ain’t a beauty, but hey, you’re alright. And that’s alright with me.” Even if he buys his kid a fancier horse, you can keep yours!

Amber Spiler

Silly Gil

Brrr. It’s me Gil, the cutest pony

in the world. I’m extra cute now

because I’m fuzzy and snuggly. At least that’s what my girls says to me and then she hugs my neck. She keeps telling me that it’s almost Christmas. I

like Christmas time, I always get lots of treats and last year I go to go on a field trip that was so much fun. I wonder what will happen this year?

Oh boy, I hear the jingle jangle of Puck’s collar, the Jack Russell Terrier mutt. I wonder what kind of trouble he will try to stir up today? Well, I will just ignore him.

“Gil! Gil!” I turn my round rump to him and try not to listen. “Gil! There is a new girl coming to the farm to visit you today” I don’t care as long as she brings treats.

I hear the rumble of an unfamiliar car driving down our dirt road. Puck hears it too and does what Jack Russell Terrier Mutts do best, he chases the car. It drives past my field and to the barn. I slowly walk to my gate and stretch my neck over to try to get the scoop.Soon enough I hear the familiar footsteps of my girl as she walks down the gravely dirt road. I would know those footsteps anywhere.

She is holding my light blue halter and I shove my face in as soon as she has the gate open. I don’t always do this but her footsteps felt a little sluggish today and I wanted to make sure she’s okay. She rubs behind my ears and puts her arms around my neck and snuggles her face into my coat. I breathe in her smell and she giggles.

“Good morning Gil. Someone special is here to see you and you need to be very good.”

I stand very still as she hops up onto my back. It only takes her one try now. I remember when she used to have to climb on the gate to get on my back…and I would move just a hair so that she would really have to leap to get on. That was a tiny bit naughty but she loved it.

She clucks and I start to walk up the road that leads to the barn. It’s not a long walk but we always love it. She sings her little song to me and her legs swing as I stroll up the lane. I think about how they used to rub my sides and tickle me when she was little. Now they touch my elbows. But I don’t mind.

When we get to the barn my girl slides off and two people who I don’t know come walking up to me. They don’t smell like the vet so I am optimistic. As they get closer I notice that one is a little girl. She reminds me a bit of my girl when I first met her. She produces a carrot and I gently take it from her hand. I remember that I must be very gentle with the tiny hands.

My girl tacks me up as the new little girl brushes me. I stand very still and enjoy the brushing. I know my girl likes it when I am so good for strangers. My girl gets on me and rides me around for a while. The little girl claps her hands in delight when I jump a jump. I love showing off.

Next my girl gets down and helps the little girl on my back. I walk so

26 A H C

SHORT STIRRUPS

slow so that I don’t do anything to upset the little girl. She asks me to trot and I do my smallest little pony trot for her. In fact, I am so eager to make my girl look good that I am absolutely perfect.

red Christmas halter. She brushes me off and puts a big red ribbon around my neck.

This is new. But I really like it. I look like a big Christmas present.

Puck whines. Wait a minute…

The little girl loves me and gives me more treats and helps my girl put me back out in the field to munch hay. Before the little girl leaves she puts her tiny arms around my neck. It feels good and reminds me a bit of my girl when I first came to live at the farm.

Out of the corner of my eye I see Puck following my girl with his bat ears drooping and I wonder what’s wrong with him. He sure does look really sad. The next day I hear Puck running as fast as his little mutt legs will carry him.

“Run!” he is panting and barking like a crazy pup. “Run Gil!!” Why in the world would I want to run?

“Don’t let our girl catch you today!” Nope, not falling for it. Today he is not going to get me in trouble.

My girl comes to the field and she is carrying a brand new red halter. I look very handsome in it if I do say so myself. She hops on my back as usual and rides me to the barn. I notice that there is an unfamiliar truck and trailer. I guess we are going somewhere to show off my new

My girls puts her arms around my neck and her body starts shaking and I feel a little wet on my neck. What’s going on?

“Gil.” My girl’s face is all pink and wet.

What is wrong with her?

“Gil, you are going to make the most wonderful Christmas present.” She hugs me again. “And I am going to miss you so much.” Miss me? Oh no!

“That little girl is going to take great care of you, and you are going to take her on big adventures.” I put my head into her chest.

“You need to be very good and only a little naughty.” No! No! “Howllllll” Puck sat down and threw his head back and howled long and loud.

“Oh Gil!” my girl started leaking from her eyes again. “I will love you forever. And when this little girl is too big you will come back here and live with me. But for now, you have to go and

teach another little girl how to ride.”

My girl put my lead rope on me and led me to the trailer. I put my head down and let Puck lick my nose. I sure am going to miss that little mutt. I’m not going to miss him getting me in trouble. I walk slowly into the trailer and look back as my girl buries her head in the chest of her grown-ups.

I sigh. I’m sad. But as I reach my pink nose into the manger of the trailer I notice that there are two carrots and an apple. I do love apples. I wonder if this new little girl will have juicy green grass at her farm. I wonder if she will want to take me on long walks through the apple trees? I wonder if she will have a mutt that will get me in trouble? Most of all I wonder if she will love me as much as my girl?

As the trailer rattles down the dirt road I hear the neighing of my friend Marvin and my sister Cricket. I neigh back and tell them not to eat all of my green leaves this summer. The last thing I hear before the gate closes behind the trailer is the yippy yapping of that silly Jack Russell Terrier Mutt.

“See you soon Silly Gil, we have many more adventures in our future when you return.”

AHC

SHORT STIRRUPS

27

Yvonne Barteau

MAKING A IN The end of the year always finds me reflectively

looking

back at the events of the past 12 months, even as the schedule ahead waves frantically at me from around the next bend. This year has been a whirlwind of activity for us at Horses without Humans in Bell, Florida.

We started an awareness campaign in April that was a National Competition, funded

by The Right Horse Initiative. The prize was a much-needed truck and trailer for our rescue, and guess what? We won it! That was something. So now my old rig that I use for competition, my training business and all other truck and trailer needs, has a backup, and we have the benefit of a smaller rig, which we can take to pick up or deliver as needed for the rescue.

28

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In August, despite being at capacity, the Bone Yard horses arrived, changing the lives of all in their path. Further, the short film we finished about them, and the trailer for the full-length Bone Yard Documentary which will air next year, both won at the Equus International Film Festival in Lexington Ky. As schedules would have it, the Equus Film Festival was the same weekend as our benefit holiday show, The Spirit of the Horse, in Newberry, Florida. This was the debut of a much-loved story we have brought to life on horseback. The weekend event was made significantly more special by the many tireless people who contributed to its success.

The production was a huge hit with the audiences, thanks to the ongoing dedication of too many people to mention. The show would not have been possible at all, without the needed funding and sponsorship we received from some longtime friends and sponsors.

Where do we go from here? Geez! So much to do. I must train, show and market my sales horses, with the help of my daughter Kassie for our ongoing business here at KYB Dressage. That business in large part makes up the monetary deficit each month, in the rescue barn. Can that continue long term? I certainly hope so, but logic and accounting dictate that support of so many horses will always depend on more than I can give or do. I hope whomever reads these words, and loves horses, looks within themselves to see if they can join

Above: the poster for the Bone Yard Documentary which will air next year, won at the Equus International Film Festival in Lexington Ky. Above right: my daughter Kassie and her daughter Karina, a huge part of keeping the KYB Dressage business going.

Right: A magical performance “Spirit of the Horse�, in Newberry, Florida was a benefit for Horses Without Humans.

hands with us to help those with no voice of their own.

What might that look like for you? It might mean you go to www.horseswithouthumans.org and donate an amount that is comfortable for you or make a monthly pledge to help with the never-ending expenses of rehabbing and tending to the over fifty rescues we house. It might mean deciding you have room on your property to adopt

or foster a horse in need. It might mean you volunteer, cleaning stalls, scrubbing buckets or caring for horses at a rescue near you. It might mean becoming more educated about the plight of unwanted horses in the US at this time and then educating others so that the next generation of horse lovers can be mindful of those with no voice of their own. It might mean a working vacation here at Rock Bluff Ranch in Bell, Florida so you can see and participate in our efforts.

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WELLNESS

29

The training business here at KYB Dressage helps makes up the monetary deficit each month

Whatever it is you can do, I ask you to do it. The rewards of giving are far better than you can imagine. I have mentioned before that while I am new to the world of equine rescue, I am trying to make up for lost time by doing all I can in the time provided me. I am convinced that if every person whose life has been enriched by horses did what they could we truly would be able to hold our heads up and say we do take care of those that we should. My short- and long-term goal is that no horse should ship across our borders to die a horrific death in a Mexican or Canadian slaughterhouse.

Horses are NOT livestock! They should NOT be considered as such, especially after a life of service, because it is convenient.

Our next generation needs to follow the example we set now. Which is that we take responsibility for a man-made problem and do not turn a blind eye to the suffering

unwanted horses endure. I agree that it is all but impossible to stay in our comfort zones as we decide to step up, step forward and act. The hard truth is that we need more people to do what they can. If you love horses then you should reflect on that.

I will finish by thanking those who have ventured forward to donate, help, educate or contribute what they can and how they can. We are a band of unlikely heroes that will eventually grow into an unstoppable force as more and more folks step into

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the arena of the unwanted and do what they can. I have made some incredible new friends and seen some acts of kindness that convince me I am on the right path and that we will make a difference, one horse at a time and one after another. We WILL be the change we wish to see in the equine industry. Happy Holidays and beyond everyone! We will see you on down the trail.

Cheers, Yvonne

AHC

WELLNESS

31

Help your horse through

winter

WHILE THE ARRIVAL OF COOLER TEMPERATURES in the winter brings a much-needed break from the heat and humidity of

Erin S. Groover, DVM, DACVIM-LA Clinical Associate Professor, Equine Internal Medicine, JT Vaughan Large Animal Teaching Hospital Auburn University, College of Veterinary Medicine

32

AHC WELLNESS

the summer, it may also coincide with exposure to bad weather and increased concerns regarding your horse’s health. Management changes for the winter can be important to make sure your horse stays happy, healthy, and warm during the winter months.

Horses are most comfortable when the outside temperature is between 45 and 75 degrees, and a healthy winter coat will allow most horses to tolerate much cooler temperatures. All horses should have adequate protection from the elements and older or thinner horses with little to no winter coat may need extra protection.

Helpful tips to make sure your horse is adequately protected include: • Access to shelter at all times to allow the horses to be shielded from the wind and freezing rain/sleet.

• Application of a blanket in older or thin horses, and in horses that are clipped or with little to no winter coat.

If your horse can eat it, allow access to good-quality hay which the horse has been previously introduced.

• Ensure that horses are turned out in areas with adequate footing. This is particularly important for older horses or horse with orthopedic problems

Helpful tips to make sure your horse is eating and drinking the correct amount include:

• Provide appropriate feed and water.

Horses may be reluctant to drink water that is too cold and may face limited access if their water source freezes when temperatures fall below freezing. In addition, horses are faced with increased caloric demands in order to appropriately regulate body temperature during cold weather.

• Ensuring access to clean, fresh water at all times and making sure that the water does not freeze. Daily removal of ice within the water can be performed as can installing warmers on buckets or troughs. The use of these warming devices can also be helpful as many horses will increase their water intake if the water is slightly warmed.

Ensure access to clean, fresh water at all times and make sure that the water does not freeze – use a heating element if necessary

• If your horse can eat hay, allow access to good-quality hay which the horse has been previously introduced.

• With hard-keepers or horses with dietary restrictions, make sure they have an appropriate diet and dental care before going into the winter months and continue to pay close attention for weight loss.

Remember, winter coats and blankets may make it more difficult to recognize that your horse is losing weight.

While cold weather alone will not make your horse sick, winter management changes may influence your horse’s

respiratory health by increasing the risk of exposure to infectious agents or resulting in exacerbation of chronic problems like equine asthma (heaves). During colder weather horses may spend more time in the barn where exposure to aerosolized infectious agents as well as allergens or irritants found in feed or bedding is greater.

Helpful tips to improve the respiratory health of your horse include: • Ensure adequate ventilation within the barn and your horse’s stall • Provide as much turn-out as possible.

• In the barn, minimize exposure to allergens or other irritants that can be found in dusty hay or bedding.

• Wet your hay.

• Remove horses from stalls when cleaning.

• Good biosecurity protocols and appropriate preventative health are critical to reduce your horse’s risk of infectious disease exposure.

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WELLNESS

33

Wishing all of our friends happy holidays and a fabulous

NEW YEAR 2020 GDCTA HAPPENINGS GDCTA AWARDS GALA

HORSE SHOWS

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August 29-30 Labor Day Classic I & II Dressage Show Conyers, GA

Jan 25, 2020 Be sure to check the Rider Standings to see if you have qualified. Any questions should be sent to Caren Caverly ccaverly@comcast.net http://bit.ly/Gala-2020

Feb 29 Horse Show 101 Symposium at GIHP, Conyers (9-6 with lunch included) - one for dressage and one for eventing.

Caren Caverly ccaverly@comcast.net http://bit.ly/Horseshow101Symposium Tickets: http://bit.ly/HorseShow101

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