Mane Connection June Issue by Jennifer Kruse

June/July 2009 Vol 1, No 1

Don Blazer-The Rollback Updates From AQHA Missouri Trailblazing Pasture Management Calendar Of Events And More!

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Letter From The Editor Hello and Welcome To The First Issue of Mane Connection! We are very excited to be bringing this publication to the Missouri equine community. As a horse person, and as such my only skill set being horses, I found myself working in an industry that was suffering. In a year’s time the price of horses plummeted, the number of equestrian jobs was down, trainers and lesson coaches had fewer clients, people have stopped buying luxury items in tack and feed stores, and so forth. There may not be much we can do about the current national economy, however here in Missouri, we can help the equine industry by giving people the information needed to keep them excited and willing to participate in horse related events and provide a sense of community. I frequently hear from horse owners in this

state about the lack of available equestrian information. Currently, the people of Missouri do not have an easy way to access information regarding horse shows, trail rides, equine clubs, services, events, horse sales, etc. Rather than from a single source, much of this information must be obtained online searching through a countless number of websites just to retrieve a small amount of information for a particular interest.

equine information, we want to hear it! We welcome all reader feedback and look forward to assisting this industry's renewal and growth in any way we can. Mane Connection Classifieds and advertising opportunities offer a one stop shop to get your information out to Missouri’s equine community. This first edition of Mane Connection will circulate between 3,000 and 4,000 copies with a complete online version as well.

Our goal is for Mane Connection to connect people in the Missouri equine industry and provide a free-flowing source of information that will benefit the whole equine community. With upto-date, current information, Mane Connection will provide horse owners and equine businesses with the information necessary to grow and expand their equine interests. This publication is not designed for any specific breed or discipline, and gladly welcomes information about YOUR club, horse show, trail ride, rodeo, auction and anything else you would like to share! If you have

If you know of a tack or feed store you would like to carry Mane Connection, please e-mail us the store’s contact information to info@maneconnection.com. We are excited to have you as part of the Mane Connection family, Jennifer Kruse Editor/Publisher Mane Connection

Mane Connection is designed to serve the Missouri equine industry as an information source and a communication tool for locating horses, products, services, organizations, and events.

Mane Connection Mane Connection is an all-breed publication available for FREE at horse related businesses and events. Mane Connection is also available through the mail with a paid subscription. Mane Connection and staff do not endorse, and are not responsible for the content of any advertisements in this publication. Neither that information or any opinion which may be expressed here constitutes a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any securities. Opinions expressed in any form are not necessarily those of Mane Connection. All copy is subject to the publisher’s approval. The publisher is not responsible for slight changes, or typographical errors that do not lessen the value of an advertisement or for errors due to phoned, faxed, or handwritten copy. The publisher’s liability for errors or omissions in connection with an advertisement or listing is strictly limited to publication of the corrected advertisement in any subsequent issue. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission from the publisher is prohibited. ©2009 Mane Connection Mane Connection is designed to serve the Missouri equine industry as an information source and a communication tool for locating horses, products, services, organizations, and events.

Mane Connection Editor/Publisher: Jennifer Kruse-jkruse@mane-connection.com Financial/Development: Susan Miller-smiller@mane-connection.com Information-info@mane-connection.com www.mane-connection.com Mane Connection PO Box 252

A HORSE, OF COURSE-The Rollback BY Don Blazer

the neck into a “U” shape.

he rollback is a great suppling exercise, helps to slow a horse’s pace and helps correct the often misused indirect rein of opposition. A rollback is a stopping and turning movement all in one in which the horse turns 180 degrees over a hind pivot foot. The movement helps to supple the horse by asking for a lifting action from the hindquarters, a softening of the body and lateral crossing of the front legs all at the same time. While the movement sounds complicated, it really isn’t. The horse is moving in a straight line and is going to be asked to rollback to the left. The rider gives an introductory cue, and then must provide immediate freedom. The rider begins the exercise by applying an indirect rein of opposition---the rein is moved back toward the rider’s left hip (opposition) while also being pushed against the right side (indirect) of the horse’s neck. The rider’s left leg is pushed against the horse to drive the left hind foot forward, setting the pivot foot. The rider’s weight is shifted slightly toward the horse’s left hip to hold the pivot foot. The rider’s right leg is moved slightly forward and pushes the forehand to the left in concert with the indirect rein being applied to the right side of the horse’s neck. The instant the horse recognizes the cues and begins the rollback, the rider must release the cues and allow the horse the freedom to come around, completing the exercise on his own. With the release of the cues, the rider has told the horse that something new will be coming, listen for the next cue. The rider gives the next cue, which reestablishes the gait at which the horse began the rollback. If the horse was jogging, then the rider asks the horse to continue the jog. The bending involved in the rollback helps to supple the horse. The bending, however, should be minimal rather than drastic. When the horse is asked to make the turn back over the pivot foot, the head must be tipped just a little into the direction of travel. The horse should not bend

It is at this point in the cueing that the indirect rein of opposition is so often misused. The opposition part of the rein cue should be nothing more than the establishment of a bit barrier to forward move, not a drastic pull backward on the rein. (Often, it is just a lifting of the hand to take the slack from the rein.) And the indirect part of the rein cue should be a pushing action into the neck. The rider must not allow any “pulling of the rein” as that will apply unwanted pressure on the bit, in turn pulling the head in the opposite direction of the wanted movement. Opposition rein cues should never involve a constant pressure backward, but should be the establishment of a barrier to forward movement. Every rein of opposition cue should be minimal in backward movement. Move the rein back enough to set the bit barrier, and then hold the rein in that position (during a half-halt, for example) or release immediately upon the horse’s correct response. I like to use the rollback as a means of teaching the horse to slow and soften his forward movement. (See a demonstration of a rollback at: h t t p : / / w w w. d o n b l a z e r. c o m / v i d e o s / rollback.html At the first sign the horse is increasing pace, I ask for a rollback, moving the horse off in the opposite direction. The horse will begin the same gait in the new direction and will be given complete freedom until he starts to increase pace again. With the increase in pace, I ask for another rollback. You will note that your horse starts to hold the slow, soft desired pace after a few (most often less than 10) rollbacks. The rollback is a required movement in many reining patterns and is often done well. When it is not done so well, it is usually rider error caused by a failure to “release” the instant the horse recognizes the request, or the rider stops the horse completely and then does a pivot on the hindquarters— two distinct movements.

Rollback to some basics—the stop and pivot--and you’ll find your horse is slower, softer and more supple in his movement. Rollbacks are taught in the HorseCoursesOnline. com Equine Studies course, Training Performance Horses.

Rider Recovery Help For The Fearful Rider BY Patricia Titchenal

ith warmer weather approaching our thoughts turn to trail rides, horse shows, and making time to spend with our horses. While most people are looking forward to longer days to spend time with their horse; pangs of fear, anxiety, guilt, or a sense of regret comes over the rider who has lost the connection with their horse due to an accident or injury. For these riders it seems there is no place to turn. Many people who are experiencing FEAR find

themselves attending seminars, taking lessons, or paying to have a tune up on their horse but cannot seem to target the problem. These riders feel cut out of the pack as they long to ride and rejoin their friends. There is help. In 2004 the Rider Recovery Program was developed to help horses and people who have been stopped in their tracks by a particular accident or incident.

case, as they are all different. The team helps not only the rider, but in many cases we find that the horse has suffered because of the trauma, too. The Rider Recovery Program is based in Brighton, Illinois at McAdams Stables; However, the team travels and does on site clinics all over the country. If you or someone you know has stopped enjoying their horse, you can contact The Rider Recovery Program at www.RiderRecovery. com or 618.372.8968.

The program founder, Patricia “Boo” Titchenal , saw the need after years of teaching people and training horses. Boo knows what it is to Our staff is willing and ready to assist you and have to work through fear as she has had many your horse. Don’t miss another riding season. situations in her lifetime of teaching and training Get back on your horse and ride! horses in which she was enveloped by FEAR. Boo developed this program based on her years Have an idea for an article, or news story? of personal and teaching experience. Team members were added to further assist the riders Is your club or organization hosting an event? and horses to insure the needs of each individual We want to hear about it! horse and rider were being met. Rider Recovery is a faith based program which starts by assessing the needs of each individual

AQHA’s New DVD & Greener Pastures Program Address Unwanted Horse Issue

merica’s Horse, April 27, 2009 -- No accurate figures document how many unwanted horses actually exist, their age, their sex, the breeds represented, how many are purebred versus grade, their most recent use, their value or what happens to them in the long run. The estimate runs in the tens of thousands. “A Synopsis of the Unwanted Horse” by renowned veterinarian Tom Lenz is a 10-minute DVD available for the cost of postage and handling – only $9. Dr. Lenz, a columnist for The American Quarter Horse and The American Quarter Horse Racing journals, is the chairman of the Unwanted Horse Coalition. UHC represents a broad alliance of equine organizations that have joined together under the American Horse Council to educate the horse industry about the unwanted horse issue. The mission of UHC is to reduce the number of unwanted horses and to improve their welfare through education and the efforts of organizations committed to the health, safety, and responsible care and disposition of these horses. To order Dr. Lenz’s DVD, e-mail mailto:blinke@aqha.org. In an effort to combat the unwanted horse population, AQHA has developed the Greener Pastures program. The program allows AQHA members to indicate on a horse’s registration certificate that should that horse ever become unwanted, unusable or simply ready for retirement, the member will – if possible – assist in finding the horse a suitable home. The program is free, completely voluntary, does not imply that a buyback or exchange of money will occur, or that a horse is guaranteed a home, because sometimes situations can and do change. It simply allows members – who can and want to – an opportunity to provide for the long-term care of horses they’ve bred or owned. However, you must be an AQHA member to sign up for or enroll a horse in the program. Go to www. aqhamembers.com to sign in with your AQHA member ID and personal identification number.

Missouri Emergency BY Roger Vincent

issouri Emergency Response Service (MERS) is a Technical Large Animal Rescue Group that serves the entire state of Missouri and points beyond. Unlike other animal welfare organizations that pick up the animals, care for them, and eventually adopt them out; MERS is a group of trained professionals that respond to emergency situations for large animals, predominantly horses and cattle, that are in imminent danger, for example: trapped in mud, fallen through a frozen pond, fallen down a deep ravine, or trapped in an overturned trailer. MERS has responded to calls from all of the above descriptions, including the I-44 tractor trailer horse trailer accident with 42 horses on board and the downtown St. Louis tractor trailer roll over accident with 62 bulls on board. MERS has a core group that has been together since 2002. MERS has responded to 91 call outs since January 2006, with 16 of those call outs occurring through April 30th of this year, so the message about this very valuable and much needed service that MERS provides continues to spread. Unfortunately, many people still do not know about MERS. Oftentimes, valuable rescue time is expended attempting to rescue a distressed animal before reaching a veterinarian or other professional who knows to contact MERS. By the time MERS is called, we truly are the last hope for the animal that is in distress. Over the years more and more police and fire agencies have found out about MERS, and call us immediately when the emergency pertains to large animals. MERS is a 501c3 non profit organization that does not charge any fees for their services. They currently own over $36,000 worth of specialized rescue equipment that is specific to large animal rescue. In addition to all of the call outs to which MERS responds, they train monthly to maintain their state of preparedness and to keep their skills finely tuned. For more information about MERS you can go to their web site @ www.mersteam.org

Real Cowboys, and Cowgirls BY Derl Warren

hat is the first thing you think of when you think of rodeo? Bull riding? Team Roping? Barrel Racing? Cell phones? Facebook profiles?

Cell phones? Facebook profiles? Welcome to the 21st century version of Missouri High School Rodeo. Today’s cowboys and cowgirls still compete as they did 25, 50, even 100 years ago in their chosen rodeo events, ranging from Pole Bending to Bull Riding. But, these same cowboys and cowgirls may not fit the stereotype of what the average Missourian thinks a rodeo contestant should be like. For instance, in today’s high school rodeo, a cowboy might climb on the back of a saddle bronc, attempt to ride it for the requisite eight seconds, and then bail off onto the back of another horse before finally hitting the ground in a bone-jarring impact. He will then exit the arena stoically, limping slightly, with a perfunctory wave of his cowboy hat to the fans. What will he do next? Join his fellow competitors to discuss technique and to critique his ride? That is possible, but it is just as likely that the cowboy will grab his laptop computer and update his Facebook profile with the results of his ride. He might then pick up his digital camera to photograph or video his competitors’ techniques for review later in order to study and improve his own technique. Someone attending a Missouri High School Rodeo could potentially witness a cowgirl decked out in a Western shirt adorned with all types of “bling” ranging from beads to turquoise. She is probably wearing a black or “straw” cowboy hat with her hair hanging loosely from underneath. She is riding a big, well-muscled horse that exudes strength, speed, and agility. She will be the very picture of what the quintessential cowgirl should look like. What completes this picture? This cowgirl likely has her cell phone attached to her ear in a semi-permanent way and can be heard gossiping about who is dating whom or what someone is wearing. Or, she is riding along with no reins in her hands, guiding her horse with her legs, busily text messaging her boyfriend that couldn’t come to the rodeo this weekend. So, where do all of these high tech cowboys and cowgirls come from? Sprawling ranches with pastures filled with horses that can only be considered rodeo royalty by their bloodlines? Maybe they come from hobby farms only a few acres in size? Perhaps they come from an established equestrian stable that has been training horses for 25 years? This is all possible, but in today’s MHS Rodeo, the contestants are just as likely to live in a subdivision and board their horses at a local stable or ranch. Ashton, a barrel racer from Linn, boards her horses at a local farm in exchange for feeding and riding the horses there that were already in residence. Macy, a Jefferson City barrel racer, and Spenser and Ross, a Jefferson City team roping duo, who all compete in the Middle School (Wrangler) division of MHS Rodeo, keep their horses at a local stable and train in the facilities there. Jordan, a Jefferson City team roper, trains horses at a stable owned by his parents. None of the above kids live on a farm, but all are contestants that train hard and take their sport very seriously.

Since rodeo is a decidedly rural sport, most of the contestants must aspire to become farmers, ranchers or horse breeders, right? Yes and no. Some of the contestants in MHS Rodeo certainly do want to establish their own ranches and breed champion horse bloodlines. Others want to be school teachers, professional football players, carpenters, veterinarians, fashion designers, and equine business managers. The list of jobs and futures these kids aspire to is as diverse as any other group of high school students in Missouri. What about the economics of competing in MHS Rodeo? Since rodeo is a very expensive sport to compete in, with some horses costing many thousands of dollars by themselves, all of the contestants must come from very affluent families, correct? No. The affluence and background of these cowboys and cowgirls is as varied as any population in Missouri. Some contestants are financed completely by their families, while others scrape for every dollar in order to travel and compete in the next rodeo. Many contestants seek sponsorship from family members and local businesses with varying levels of success. These expenses are further complicated since MHS Rodeo does not take any tax dollars and is not in any way associated with the Missouri State High School Activities Association, or MSHSAA. All contestants compete individually with no affiliations. Since there are no public funds coming to MHS Rodeo, each contestant must raise $300 in sponsor money on top of the regular fees and dues they must pay to the MHS Rodeo Association for insurance and administration. Couple these costs with travel expenditures, entry fees, vet bills, farrier bills, hotel bills, and many other miscellaneous outlays, and you have an idea of what these kids must obtain in order to compete. All can be for naught if they miss with the rope or knock over a barrel or get bucked off the bull. At that point, their entry fee simply becomes a donation to the prize pool. Most of them would not change a thing, and take great pride in grappling with other competitors in the rodeo arena. Ashton, of Linn, pulls up a screen on her Blackberry and repeats her favorite saying: “Rodeo: Sometimes you get; sometimes you get got.” If you would like more information on Missouri High School Rodeo, including schedules, rules, and events, please visit www.mhsrodeo.com. If you know someone that would like to compete in MHS Rodeo, please pass this information along to them. If you would like to find out more about your local cowboys and cowgirls, including how to sponsor one, contact one of the regional directors listed on the website, or the rodeo secretary, and they will put you in contact with your local contestants. Derl Warren can be contacted at derl.warren@gmail.com with any questions concerning this article. Derl, of Linn, is a self-proclaimed “Rodeo Dad” with his older daughter Ashton currently competing in MHS Rodeo; and his younger daughter Chalyn aspiring to compete when she gets old enough. Photos courtesy of 10 year old Chalyn Warren!

Horse Insurance FAQ’s BY Jim Brown-Segundo Insurance

n our travels around the country visiting farms and shows, we at Segundo, Inc. get several questions asked with great frequency. Some of these include: If my horse hurts somebody, doesn’t my Homeowners Liability insurance cover me? It may not. Most Homeowner and many Farmowner policies exclude liability for Livestock. Pets, such as dogs and cats, are generally included, but horses are in most cases considered Livestock, so you may not be covered for an injury or property damage caused by your horse. Specialty insurance companies offer this insurance under Personal Horse Owners Liability and Commercial Horse Liability coverages. It is available as a stand-alone policy, or in conjunction with an Equine Farmowners package policy. Considering the damage that can be done, often just by accident, by any animal as large and powerful as a horse, it would be advisable for any horse owner to look into this type of insurance. What does Horse Mortality insurance cost?

Annual policies are available to protect your investment in your horse(s). These are usual referred to a Full Mortality Insurance and would provide payment in the event the insured horse dies from accident, sickness or disease, or would need to be destroyed for Humane Reasons during the policy period. The cost of this insurance is usually expressed as a percentage of the insured value of the horse, and generally runs between a low of 2.5% ($25 per $1,000 of coverage) to 4.5% or higher. The rates applied vary according to breed, age, use and value of the horse insured. The basic policy can be enhanced with optional, extra-cost coverages, such as Major Medical Insurance, Surgical Insurance, Stallion Infertility Insurance and others.

financially able to replace the horse in he/she dies, you’ll need to ask your agent for Horse Mortality Insurance. This as a specialty insurance product and is only available from a small number of insurance companies through selected agencies. If your agent does not offer this insurance, ask if he can get it for you. Or, you can find an Equine Mortality Insurance Agent by asking friends in the horse business, or perhaps through your Breed Club or Association. If you own horses and a farm, be sure that your insurance company knows what horse related activities you have on your farm, and be sure you have coverage off-premises if you take your horses to shows, trail rides, etc. If you do any Training, or give any Riding Lessons, you need to consider Equine Commercial Liability coverage to be properly insured. In closing, horses are a great source of joy and relaxation for a great number of people. Please make sure you have the proper insurance coverage to protect you financially against the unforeseen that can happen to anyone. Happy trails and best regards from, Jim Brown Ed & Marcella Hampp Segundo, Inc.

Did You Know..... If riding your horse gets you out of breath you need to get fit to ride. It takes a reduction of 3500 calories to lose a pound. Increasing your activity level by 350 calories per day, 5 days a week will allow you to lose 1 pound in 2 weeks.

If I train horses as a hobby or as a full time occupation, am I eligible for Disability Insurance? While disability insurance has not always been available for Horse Trainers, there are now a few companies that do offer this protection. You may have to look or call around for it, but it is available in most instances. If I have a horse show or clinic on my property, am I covered by my Liability Insurance? Probably not, unless you have specifically requested this be added to a horse organization to use your property, you can request evidence of their Liability Insurance and request to be added to their policy as an Additional Insured. Daily Equine Event policies are available to cover these kinds of functions, or the horse organization may have an annual Liability policy to cover all their various shows and events and can provide you with evidence of their insurance. What should I ask my insurance agent or insurance company to make sure I’m covered? If you own a horse, or horses, it would be advisable to specifically ask your insurance agent if you have coverage in the event your horse causes bodily injury or property damage to any third party, either while on your property or away from your property. If you take your horse to shows or trail rides or send a mare out to be bred, you’ll want your insurance protection to go as far as the horse does. If you wish to protect your investment in your horse so that you can be

Aerobic exercise burns calories. In addition to weight management, the benefits include improved cardiovascular endurance and increased muscular strength. Taken from Fit To Ride, a www.HorseCoursesOnline.com online equine study course.

Riders and supporters ante up more than $9,000 to support American Paint Horse Foundation

ore than $9,000 was raised in early May at the American Paint Horse Foundation Bat Masterson Poker Ride and Casino Night to benefit St. Jude Childrens Research Hospital and therapeutic riding programs that help children and adults rehabilitate through the healing power of horses. Of the $9,000 raised this year, half will be awarded to St. Jude Childrens Research Hospital and the remainder will be added to the American Paint Horse Foundations new Therapeutic Riding support fund. In the past year, the Foundation has raised nearly $35,000 to be used to support therapeutic riding centers and programs.

Pasture Management For Small Acreages BY Gabby Moore, DVM

oo many horses and too little land is a very common problem for many horse owners. The number of horsemen that own 20 acres or less is growing at a fast rate. Horse owners usually buy a few acres so they can care for their horses where they live. Pastures should be pretty to look at, provide the horse with free exercise and be a source of high quality forage. Unfortunately, few horse owners on small acreages have the agricultural background to properly understand good pasture management. Pasture management is even more critical when dealing with horses. Horses can quickly turn good ground into highly erodible areas devoid of any kind of good vegetation. Horses trample areas where they are fed, watered and congregate to the point of destroying all plants. These “sacrifice” areas can expand quickly. In addition, horses prefer tender, immature grasses and can crop these plants very close to the ground. Continual grazing like this does not allow the plant time to recover and it will eventually die. Soon, all that is left in a pasture that is continually grazed are tough, woody weeds. Horse owners should spend some time learning good agronomic principles and planning management for maximum production. Selection of proper grasses for the climate, use and soil conditions, fertilization, removal of manure or dragging to break up manure piles, proper stocking rates, soil testing, weed control, and pasture rotation must all be part of the plan. The first stop should be your local university agriculture extension office or the county or federal soils and crops specialist. Not only will they be able to give you a wealth of information for your particular farm but there may be cost share programs for pasture improvement for which you may be eligible. Planning should include an inventory of the plants present. Not everything green is desirable or even edible. Your local county extension agent can help you here and will recommend forage that is adapted for your area and intended use. Weed control, soil testing and soil improvement plans can also be addressed at that time. A controlled grazing plan is the next issue to consider. It is vital to avoid overgrazing. Even one horse on ten acres can overgraze an area. Avoid overstocking. Too many animals on too little land can quickly turn good pasture into a barren, weed infested area in a short time.

Cross fencing so animals can be rotated or kept off the pasture is essential. Cross fences can be permanent or temporary. There are lots of systems available to fit just about anyone’s farm and budget. Again, you must become enough of an expert to identify the needs of the plants, rate of growth, climate conditions, etc. Forages should never be grazed closed than 4 to 6 inches or the height of a typical one pound tin can at which time they must be allowed enough time to regrow. Good pastures are invaluable to your horse for both his physical and mental well being. It is not impossible to keep your horses happy and your pastures green if you follow a few simple steps. Principles of Good Pasture Management 1. Use soil testing to identify problems and bring soils up to test with lime and fertilizer. High fertilizer prices make composted manure a good alternative. 2. Drag pastures to break up manure piles and mow periodically so horses will graze more evenly. Rotate horses with cattle and/ or goats for most efficient use of the land. 3.Don’t overstock 4. Don’t graze pastures continually. Get stock off pastures if plants are grazed to four to six inches. 5. Choose forages that will stand up to horse traffic and weather and soil conditions in your area. 6. Create a sacrifice area or turn out lots that can be used when horses must be kept off pastures. 7. Consider type of fencing to keep horses safe. Barbless high tensile wire can cause severe injury. Consider electric fencing, pipe or vinyl fences. Be careful to cap any steel T-posts.

Know of a Feed/Tack Store, or Event where you would like to see Mane Connection?? Let Us Know! info@mane-connection.com

Open House at Greensfelder Stables

2009 World Cup Dressage Training Online Website

Give a kid a leg up on life; donate your gently used cowboy boots

ans of the educational dressage website Dressage Training Online now have a chance to watch exclusive footage of the recent 2009 FEI/Rolex World Cup in Las Vegas – from the best dressage riders in the world to inside scoops and behind-thescene action of the world’s top dressage competition. Dressage Training Online is offering members the chance to see world-class horses and riders perform at the exciting show, all from the comfort of their own computer.

To watch footage of the World Cup, or for more information on Dressage Training Online, visit their website at www dressagetrainingonline. com

boots can be mailed to: American Paint Horse Foundation “Leg Up on Life” 2800 Meacham Blvd. Fort Worth, TX 76137

aturday, May 16th, several hundred horse lovers visited Greensfelder Stable in Wildwood, MO for their first Open House and Country Fair which was held in conjunction with WHOAA (Wildwood Horse Owners and Acreage Association) and Ace Bronco Bunch 4-H Club. A stormy night preceded a perfect day to enjoy the festivities. Visitors were shuttled by hay wagon from parking lots to the stable area where they were treated to riding demonstrations by some of the area’s top riders in various disciplines. Opening ceremonies and National Anthem featured Apollo, the 2009 Wildwood Calendar horse, St. Louis Polo Club had a wonderful demonstration, Spirit Valley Farms' students showed jumping, David Sewell, on his Connemara mare, showed lower level dressage set to music and Lotta Ekland and her Hanoverian, of the St. Louis Equestrian Center, demonstrated high level dressage. Allison Smyth from Greensfelder Stable demonstrated Western Pleasure and Arena Trail. Nancy Allen of Equilink gave a fascinating musical demonstration of Natural Horsemanship. Greensfelder Stable students and their instructor, Jill Ennis, concluded the show with an exhibition of a typical lesson. Parking lot activities included Farrier Stuart Blake's demonstration of the hot shoeing method, Dr. Richard Planzo's, of K&P Animal Chiropractic, demonstration and discussion of equine chiropractic care, and The Royal Horse Company's showcase of natural horse care products. Children enjoyed the play area and the various activities offered. The WHOAA booth featured snacks, drinks, and contests and Ace Bronco Bunch’s booth sold homemade horse treats, cookbooks, and held a raffle. Greensfelder Stable gave away several riding lessons and a summer camp session to lucky winners. For information on more events being held at Greensfelder Stable visit: www.greensfelderstable. com.

7 Reasons why HorseCoursesOnline.com Is your Best College Education Choice! 1. Faculty: Award-winning instructors; all horse experts. 2. Online: Academics and employers agree “online education” is equal to or superior to traditional school programs. It’s new school. 3. Convenient: Start one course or several, anytime. Work when best for you, no completion deadlines, no “lock outs”. 4. Affordable: Bachelor of Science in Equine Studies degree for less than $6,500…pay $350 for one course at a time. 5. Fast: Our graduates average 25 months to earn diploma. Many start jobs while still completing 16-course program. 6. Broader Scope: No general education courses required. 18 accredited equine courses equal 120 units for graduation. 7. Leadership: HorseCoursesOnline.com is the worldwide leader in distance learning equine study courses. Now more than 3,000 students representing 21 countries.

Start Today: www.horsecoursesonline.com

he American Paint Horse Foundation needs your help to give kids a leg up on life by donating new or gently used cowboy boots for young riders. The Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving lives through interaction with horses, recently joined forces with Camp Carter YMCA in Fort Worth, Texas, to educate children about horses and get them in the saddle. Safe footwear is an important part of the process, and the boot drive will help accomplish the goal of introducing children to the world of horses. Both children’s and adult size cowboy boots, with heels, are needed. cowboy

Canaan Conservation Area Trail BY Laura Vonk

anaan Conservation Area is a new trail located in Gasconade County, a few miles north of Bland off Hwy A. It’s a medium length trail of 10.4 miles that is free to riders and campers. You can park at any of the parking lots, but the two best lots for maneuvering horse trailers are located at the end of the little unnamed road in the middle of the area, or the middle lot off Boettcher/Bock Road. I was able to ride this trail again in mid May with friends. This is a fun trail with a lot of variety to enjoy, including forest, fields, hills, ridges, hollows, and a fen. The trail corridor is mostly double track. A lot of gravel was used to make these trails so it’s almost an all weather trail, still there are a few areas that get pretty boggy during the wet weather season. Although there isn’t a lot of spectacular scenery or vistas; there are some points of interest along the trail, such as an old cemetery, trees with a lot of wild grape vines, a section of old burned forest at the top of a ridge, and springs. Additionally, there is gravel road riding that can be added to complete one loop or to add mileage to your ride. A couple of long steep hills test your horse’s endurance and keep this from being an easy trail. A section of trail in the northeast corner was my favorite part. It had several short hills close together, a couple of which were very steep. I had a blast riding that part, it was like riding a kiddie roller coaster. This part of the trail isn’t marked as finished on the map, but it is done and open to riders, (I double checked with the land manager), and is very easy to follow due to the wide trail corridor. The obstacles you have to negotiate along the way include creeks crossings, downfall, hilly terrain, and the area wildlife. There isn’t anything too difficult, and nothing I’d consider dangerous. There is rusty woven wire and barbed wire fencing in the area from past farms; however, they don’t cross any trails. Some of this fencing is down or hidden in the undergrowth and in some areas gets close to the side of a trail. None of the fencing I saw poses any hazard to horse or rider unless good trail ethics are forgotten and riders venture off the trail. The trail is in good shape over all and marked with little arrow signs. Only one place got a little confusing due to a large fallen tree crossing the trail. After making our way around this large deadfall, it wasn’t real obvious how to find the trail again on the other side. Although not in my top 5 favorite trails, I do enjoy this trail a lot and I’m happy to recommend it. For more information, lots of pictures, and more maps, visit my website at www. motrailblazing.com

Horse Shows June 20, 2009 MMSHA Show Safe Saddle Club Safe, MO www.mmsha.com

June 28, 2009 Mid Rivers Think Pink Show Therapeutic Horsemanship Arena Wentzville MO www.midriverssaddleclub.com

June 20, 2009 Richland Saddle Club Fun Show Richland, MO 573-736-5533

June 27, 2009 Shadowbrook H/JShow Fair Grove, MO www.smhja.org

June 20, 2009 GWHA All Breed Show Lincoln County Fairgrounds Troy, MO www.gwha.org

June 27, 2009 Gateway Saddle Club Show Lincoln County Fairgrounds Troy, MO

June 20, 2009 Golden Circle Horse Show Therapeutic Classes Offered Warrensburg, MO www.goldencircle.org or 660-624-3026 June 20, 2009 Sho-Me Circuit Show Western and English Classes Lions Club Arena New Bloomfield MO Www.showmecircuit.org June 24, 2009 Sullivan Saddle Club All Youth Show Sullivan, MO www.sullivansaddleclubsite.com June 26-27, 2009 Saddle Up, Inc Longview Charity Horse Show Longview Horse Park Kansas City, MO 913-681-2397

June 27, 2009 Sho-Me Horse Show Circuit Fischer Stables Sedalia, MO www.fischerstables.com or 660-829-4677 June 27, 2009 Missouri Haflinger Show Boone County Fairgrounds, Columbia, MO 573-985-7132 June 27, 2009 Mid Mo Show Rolla Saddle Club Arena Rolla, MO www.rollasaddleclub.org July 3-5, 2009 Equine Productions H/J Show National Equestrian Center Lake St. Louis, MO thenationalequestriancenter.com or 636-398-4623

July 11, 2009 GWHA All Breed Show, 6pm Lincoln County Fairgrounds Troy, MO www.gwha.org July 11, 2009 Shiloh Saddle Club Show Hallsville Fairgrounds Hallsville, MO 573-289-1592 www. shilohsaddleclub.com July 11, 2009 Rolla Saddle Club Fun Show Rolla, MO www.rollasaddleclub.org July 12, 2009 Mid Rivers Saddle Club Blue Bunny Day Therapeutic Horsemanship Wentzville, MO www.midriverssaddleclub.com or 636-299-2530 July 14, 2009 Lincoln County Youth Show Lincoln County Fairgrounds Troy, MO www.gwha.org July 15, 2009 Lincoln County Speed Show Lincoln County Fairgrounds, Troy, MO www.gwha.org July 15-18, 2009 Central States Horse Show American Royal Kansas City, MO www.americanroyal.com

July 4-5, 2009 Show Me Little Equine Horse Show Boone County Fairgrounds Columbia, MO showmelittleequineclub.com

July 16, 2009 Lincoln County Western Show Lincoln County Fairgrounds Troy, MO www.gwha.org

July 10-12, 2009 Dressage Show Midway Expo Center Columbia, MO www.midwayexpo.com or 573-445-8338

July 16-18, 2009 Central States Benefit Horse Show Hale Arena, American Royal Kansas City, MO 913-579-7709

July 10-12, 2009 Equine Productions Hunter Jumper Show National Equestrian Center Lake St. Louis, MO thenationalequestriancenter.com or 636-398-4623

July 18 , 2009 Golden Circle Horse Show Warrensburg, MO www.goldencircle.org or 660-624-3026

July 11, 2009 Sullivan Saddle Club Open Show Sullivan, MO www.sullivansaddleclubsite.com

July 19 -26, 2009 POA International Show National Equestrian Center Lake St. Louis, MO thenationalequestriancenter.com or 317-788-0107

July 20-26, 2009 Boone County Fair and Horse Show Boone County Fairgrounds Columbia, MO boonecountyfairgrounds.com or 573-474-9435 July 23-26, 2009 Midway Quarter Horse Show Midway Expo Center Columbia, MO www.midwayexpo.com or 573-445-8338 July 24, 2009 MTR Speed Show Missouri Trail Riders Arena Winfield, MO www.gwha.org July 25, 2009 MTR Pleasure Show Missouri Trail Riders Arena Winfield, MO www.gwha.org July25, 2009 Sho-Me Horse Show Circuit Show Fischer Stables Sedalia, MO www.fischerstables.com or 660-829-4677 July 25, 2009 Lone Star Ranch Silver Buckle Series Lone Star Ranch, Kansas City, MO www.lonestarranchkcmo.com August 1, 2009 GWHA All Breed Show Lincoln County Fairgrounds Troy, MO www.gwha.org August 1, 2009 Moiteau Saddle Club Sho-Me Circuit Show Cheri Messerli -- 573-338-3929 Maureen Stocksick --291-1123 August 1, 2009 KC Arabian Horse Assoc. Show Longview Horse Park, Kansas City, MO 816-537-5485

Springfield, MO www.mmdba.com August 7-9, 2009 The Kirkwood Show National Equestrian Center Lake St. Louis, MO thenationalequestriancenter.com or 361-293-1728 August 8, 2009 KC Regional Fox Trotting Horse Assoc. 29 Annual Show Longview Horse Park Kansas City, MO 816-448-9423 August 8, 2009 Hartville Hunter/Jumper Show Hartville, MO www.smhja.org August 8, 2009 Gateway Saddle Club Show Lincoln County Fairgrounds Troy, MO www.gatewaysaddleclub.com August 8, 2009 FMSFQHRA/Sho-Me Combined Show Fischer Stables, Sedalia, MO www.fischerstables.com or 660-829-4677 August 8, 2009 Rolla Saddle Club Speed Show Rolla, MO www.rollasaddleclub.org August 8-9, 2009 POA Horse Show Boone County Fairgrounds Columbia, MO 573-999-1014 August 8-9, 2009 Appaloosa Horse Show Midway Expo Center Columbia, MO www.midwayexpo.com or 573-445-8338

August 2, 2009 Mid Rivers Saddle Club Double Judge Show Therapeutic Horsemanship Wentzville, MO www.midriverssaddleclub.com or 636-299-2530

August 11-15, 2009 MO State Fair Horse Show Missouri State Fairgrounds Sedalia, MO 417-864-5310 August 13-15, 2009 National Breeders Cup Fox Trotting Horse Show Ozark Empire Fairgrounds Springfield, MO www.ozarkempirefair.com

August 3, 2009 MO Miniature Donkey Breeders Assoc. State Show Ozark Empire Fair

August 13-17, 2009 Ranch Horse Show American Royal, Kansas City, MO

www.americanroyal.com August 14-16, 2009 Central States Showdown National Equestrian Center Lake St. Louis, MO thenationalequestriancenter.com or 217-473-3236 August 15-16, 2009 Missouri Paint Horse Show Boone County Fairgrounds Columbia, MO www.missouripainthorseclub.com or 573-896-4016 August 21-23, 2009 Irish Fox Schooling Show National Equestrian Center Lake St. Louis, MO thenationalequestriancenter.com

Sales June 20, 2009 Rolla Horse Sale St. James, MO 573-265-8813 June 20, 2009 Puxico Horse Sale Puxico, MO 573-222-6229 June 27, 2009 Owensville Horse Auction Owensville, MO 573-437-5360 June 27, 2009 Farmington Horse Sale Farmington, MO 573-756-5769 July 4, 2009 Wright County Horse Auction Mountain Grove, MO 417-926-4136 July 4, 2009 Puxico Horse Sale Puxico, MO 573-222-6229 July 4, 2009 Rolla Horse Sale St. James, MO 573-265-8813 July 4, 2009 Lolli Brothers Horse Auction Macon, MO 660-385-2516 July 4, 2009 Mountain Grove Horse Auction Mountain Grove, MO 870-458-2780 July 11, 2009 Farmington Horse Sale Farmington, MO 573-756-5769 July 11, 2009 Owensville Horse Auction Owensville, MO 573-437-5360

July 18, 2009 Rolla Horse Sale St. James, MO 573-265-8813 July 18 , 2009 Puxico Horse Sale Puxico, MO 573-222-6229 July 25, 2009 Farmington Horse Sale Farmington, MO 573-756-5769 July 25, 2009 Owensville Horse Auction Owensville, MO 573-437-5360 August 1, 2009 Puxico Horse Sale Puxico, MO 573-222-6229 August 1, 2009 Rolla Horse Sale St. James, MO 573-265-8813 August 1, 2009 Lolli Brothers Horse Auction Macon, MO 660-385-2516 August 6, 2009 Wright County Horse Auction Mountain Grove, MO 417-926-4136 August 6, 2009 Mountain Grove Horse Auction Mountain Grove, MO 870-458-2780 August 8, 2009 Farmington Horse Sale Farmington, MO 573-756-5769 August 8, 2009 Owensville Horse Auction Owensville, MO 573-437-5360 August 15, 2009 Rolla Horse Sale St. James, MO 573-265-8813 August 15, 2009 Puxico Horse Sale Puxico, MO 573-222-6229

Trail Rides None Listed

Ropings June 27, 2009 Roping Summer Buckle Series Warrenton, MO www.meltonfamilyrodeo.com or 636-262-1854 July 11, 2009 Roping Summer Buckle Series Warrenton, MO www.meltonfamilyrodeo.com or 636-262-1854 July 12, 2009 Barrel Racing Summer Buckle Series Warrenton, MO www.meltonfamilyrodeo.com or 636-262-1854 July 25, 2009 Roping Summer Buckle Series Warrenton, MO www.meltonfamilyrodeo.com or 636-262-1854 July 26, 2009 Barrel Racing Summer Buckle Series Warrenton, MO www.meltonfamilyrodeo.com or 636-262-1854 July 28-31, 2009 Team Roping American Royal, Kansas City, MO www.americanroyal.com August 1, 2009 Roping Fall Buckle Series Warrenton, MO www.meltonfamilyrodeo.com or 636-262-1854 August 2, 2009 Barrel Racing Fall Buckle Series Warrenton, MO www.meltonfamilyrodeo.com or 636-262-1854 August 15, 2009 Roping Fall Buckle Series Warrenton, MO www.meltonfamilyrodeo.com or 636-262-1854 August 16, 2009 Barrel Racing Fall Buckle Series Warrenton, MO www.meltonfamilyrodeo.com or 636-262-1854

Rodeos June 17-20, 2009 Missouri State High School Rodeo Finals Boone County Fairgrounds, Columbia, MO www.mhsrodeo.com June 20, 2009 Humansville Youth Rodeo Humansville, MO 417-754-8396 June 25, 2009 Sullivan Rodeo Sullivan Saddle Club, Sullivan, MO ww.sullivansaddleclubsite.com August 21-22, 2009 AFRA Rodeo, 7pm Rolla Saddle Club Grounds, Rolla, MO www.rollasaddleclub.org

Clinics

24 thru 28 - US Pony Rally Midway Expo Center, Columbia, MO www.midwayexpo.com or 573-4458338 August 13-23 2009 MO State Fair, Sedalia MO www.mostatefair.com 1-800-422-3247 October 10 2009 Concert of Dancing Horses www.americanroyal.com

To add your event to the Mane Connection Calendar of Events, please e-mail us at info@mane-connection.com

Calendar submissions must be received by July 20, 2009 for the Aug. issue.

July 20-26, 2009 Pat Parelli Clinic American Royal, Kansas City, MO www.americanroyal.com

Barrel Races June 20, 2009 Open 4D Barrel Race, OHBA and BBR sanctioned, 6pm Licking Saddle Club City Arena Licking, MO lickingsaddleclub.weebly.com or 573-889-9445 June 28, 2009 Barrel Racing Summer Buckle Series Warrenton, MO www.meltonfamilyrodeo.com or 636-262-1854 August 15, 2009 Barrel Bash In The Bluff Butler County Fair Ray Clinton Park Poplar Bluff, MO butlercountymissourifair.com or 573-429-6220

Events June 20, 2009 Carriage & Driving 26th Annual Ride & Drive Show Longview Horse Park, Kansas City, MO 816-258-1952

Looking for current news and events?? The Mane Connection website features up-to-date state, national, and international equine information! Visit Us at mane-connection.com

HORSES FOR SALE Arabian mare...Gray with very small amount of dappling. Trained with Nick Ivanovich in Union for 90 days $750.00... Would consider trade for gentle kids horse/pony... 314.691.1921 Flashy Overo Yearling Half Arabian Gelding! Handled since birth. Gentle. Awesome pedigree on both sides. This guy will get you noticed. Current shots, worming and coggins. Feet trimmed. $500.00. lisa@ rettkearabians.net or 417-6991359 for more info.

Reg TWH mare dob 9/30/01 Lady Tashena of Colors, Sire, Color’s Step-N-Fetch, Dam, Elegant Lady Of Ebony, nice gentle horse, broke to ride and drive $1750.00 or trade for cattle 417-767-4374D

been trail riden, fun show, farriers well and trailers fine. Colt is from the Playgun line. If interested call. Have a big stout 9 yr gelding and two other brood mares foaling soon also for sale. $1,500 (573) 435-8291 Quality registered POA’s for sale. Weanlings/yearlings starting at $500. Also finished show horses. Perfect size for childern or ladies/smaller adults. All disciplines. SC Pony Farm, Ashland, Missouri. (573) 999-1014. Reining, Cutting and Cow Horses, well started to finished winners by proven sires and dams. Standing Smart War Olena, The Flashy King, and Smart Chic O’Dry. www. mclaughlinwesternstore.com Paris, MO 660-327-4869

Greensfelder Stable offers many services for a wide variety of horse lovers. Boarding, Lessons with a certified instructor, summer camps, birthday parties, youth group activities, and much more. www.greensfelderstable. com

Fischer Stables is a 70 stall, full service equine facility. We offer boarding, training/lessons, indoor/outdoor arena rentals and trails. Please visit our web site at www.fischerstables.com for more information.

A nice selection of Missouri Foxtrotting Horse Trail Horses. www.moorefoxtrotters.com

BREEDING AQHA/NFQHA Grulla Homozygous Dun, gene, AQHA/NFQHA Palomino, AQHA/ WFQHA Cremello & APHA/ FSHA Buckskin tobiano 100% foundation, performance bred stallions standing. $5 per day mare care. Quality dilute Foals for sale. www.geocities.com/ cbastunas

BOARDING AND TRAINING full care and pasture, with stalls $175.00 Please contact almaleonard@msn.com or 636240-9891. Located in O’Fallon MO.

Solid Black Mare with bay(roan possibly) colt on side. Mare is 15 h, 950 lbs - good horse

1322 or 816-697-3117 for more info.

Small, full care boarding facility near Blue Grey Reserve with miles of trails. We offer custom care for your horse, round pen, arena & more. Call 816-263-

SERVICES Success-Centered Workshops for adult riders. Beginners to advanced. Small groups and private. Since 1986. www. brindabellafarms.com or PH: 417-267-2900, ask for Chardy. Custom Scheduled English Riding Lessons. Beginner to Advanced, All Ages! Instructor is WWU Grad. 6 Week Lesson Package - Buy 5, 1 FREE - $175 or Each Lesson - $35 Showingopportunities available! asb5g@hotmail.com or 573529-6035 for info. Located in Boonville, MO. we are a family owned complete hoof care provider, we offer full farrier services and also the mustang trim for your barefoot horse,we will work 1 horse or large herds, we also offer

discounts 417-379-7046 or mo_cowboy68@yahoo.com

BARNS, CORRALS, FENCING

Novelty Tshirts, tote bags, sweat shirts, long sleeves, sleepware and horse bling. Call or email for sizes and prices. kellyspartypony@ gmail.com or 417-368-7199 or 913-306-6933.

Custom gate an ranch signs, and western decor stair case incerts. $25.00 per foot. Please contact mary.nordyke@gmail. com or 417-718-5262

English Riders of Central Mo Love the country but miss The Barn atmosphere? Get connected at HTTP://WWW. ENGLISHRIDERSNET WORK. BLOGSPOT.COM

TACK AND FEED Anderson Tack Horse Supply Lowest Prices. Saddles Bit Bosals Horse Care Items Call for Details. Please contact us at shelly08@centurytel.net or 636-578-4592. New BIG OX Locking Saddle Rack can help prevent theft of your valuable saddle. Solid steel. Made in USA.. bakedon powder-coat finish..Mounts in you wooden tack room w/ special anti-theft hardware(incl) or may be mounted on masonry or metal walls...even in your Show trailer Please look at my website www. bigoxsaddlerack.com

MISC. See our unique variety of rhythm beads and accents, bling for people and horses, and other amazing gifts! See it all at www. FancyHorses.com . Krusen Website Designwebsites made for small businesses. Make your business competitive in todays economy, by making it easy for people to find out about your goods and services. krusezoo@yahoo. com for prices and info. Websites starting at just $100.00.

To place a classified in Mane Connection please visit us at mane-connection.com Advertise your horse for sale, stud, equine services, tack/feed stores, barns, and more to the Missouri equine industry! By placing a Classified in Mane Connection you reach your target audience, in one shot!

Did You Know?? The worlds smallest horse is a Missouri resident. Thumbelina stands at 17.5 inches tall, and weighs 57 pounds visit her at: worldssmallesthorse.com