Massachusetts Horse February/March 2017 by Community Horse Media

M A S S AC H U S E T T S

HORSE HELMETS

THE HARD-HEADED FACTS page 8

MONROE STATE FOREST TRAIL GUIDE page 22

NEW ENGLAND EQUINE RESCUE NORTH

February/March 2017 mahorse.com $4

LEND A HOOF page 26

February/March 2017

contents

February/March 2017

columns 22 Monroe State Forest Trail Guide

24 On the Trails

Mindful Connections

Marie Scott

istockphoto

Preparation for a Smooth Ride

26 New England Equine Rescue North West Newbury Lend a Hoof

32 Bay State Happenings

Michelle Murphy

Event Photos

in every issue

features 8 Helmets The Hard-Headed Facts Lead Feature

5 From the Publisher

Grindstone Mountain Farm Farm Feature

7 Your Letters 28 Overherd: News in Our Community 34 Partners 37 This Olde Horse 38 Massachusetts Events Calendar

Stefhanie Connors

20 Scout Murphy

40 The Neighborhood

Salty Dawg Equine Services

Taking Responsibility

42 Is This Your Horse?

Horseperson Feature

Youth Spotlight

42 Advertiser Index

Massachusetts Horse

CARVER 508.866.9150 Richard.Blair@farm-family.com

NORWOOD 781.255.2002 Francis_Bingham@farm-family.com

EASTHAMPTON 413.203.5180 Josh.Nadeau@farm-family.com

SOUTHWICK 413.569.2307 themasonagency@farm-family.com

GREAT BARRINGTON 413.528.1710 Bob.Sinopoli@farm-family.com Dominic.Sinopoli@farm-family.com

TOPSFIELD 978.887.8304 Dale_Johnson@farm-family.com

MARLBOROUGH 508.485.3800 Martin_West@farm-family.com MIDDLEBOROUGH 508.747.8181 Andrew_Brodeur@farm-family.com Kevin.Sullivan@farm-family.com NORTHBOROUGH 508.393.9327 Jeff.Pichierri@farm-family.com

February/March 2017

WESTFORD 978.467.1001 Donald.Ludwig@farm-family.com WILLIAMSTOWN 413.458.5584 MaureenOMara@farm-family.com WORCESTER 508.752.3300 Thomas_Carroll@farm-family.com

From the Publisher

hen I was 19 my friend Sheila went off her horse at

from where I started and under my other Haflinger mare’s

a gallop (he was bolting) and she had one of the

hooves. Luckily, she didn’t kick out. I wasn’t wearing a helmet

“helmets” on that we wore in the early 80s. She was

as I was “just feeding.”

brain dead instantly.

Thinking back, I wasn’t paying attention while feeding. I

It’s had such a huge impact

was chatting with a friend who

on my feelings about helmets, as

was visiting. It was my fault. My

you can imagine. Almost turned

mares are very mellow when

me away from horses, almost . . .

being fed. They don’t push each

Everyone at Pocketful of

other or the two Miniature

Ponies Farm must wear a helmet

horses around. It’s a pretty peace-

when riding and when working

ful scene, really. But, since I can’t

with horses on the ground,

control or predict what my horses

including grooming. My 4-H’ers

are going to do or how they are

wore their helmets when doing

going to react, I now wear my

projects with my Miniature

helmet when I feed. Ridiculous,

horses. It’s just not worth taking

right? Not to me.

the chance — the people in my life are precious to me and to so

Helmets are my “soapbox” Caszual, Little Rasta Man, and Cat at Pocketful of Ponies Farm

many others.

issue when it comes to everything

equestrian. I hope you’ll give the lead feature a read and

Horses are so powerful. In December, while feeding my herd, I was “hipchecked” by one of my Haflinger mares, acci-

maybe it will encourage you or someone you love to wear a helmet. After all, we’re here for such a short time as it is.

dentally, and I went flying. Truly. I landed about eight feet away

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M ASSAC H US ETTS

HORSE vol. 15, no. 5 February/March 2017

ISSN 1945-1393

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February/March 2017

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the fine print The views and opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the Massachusetts Horse staff or independent contractors, nor can they be held accountable. Massachusetts Horse will not be held responsible for any misrepresentations or any copyright infringement on the part of advertisers. Massachusetts Horse will not be held responsible for typing errors other than a correction in the following issue. All letters addressed to Massachusetts Horse, its publisher, editor, and staff are assumed for publication. Photos, stories (verbal or printed), notifications, news items, and all other material that is submitted, including all materials and photos not specifically solicited by Massachusetts Horse, are assumed to be legally released by the submitter for publication. Massachusetts Horse assumes no responsibility for damage to or loss of material submitted for publication. Reasonable care will be taken to ensure the safety and return of all materials.

To the editor:

Your Letters

Thank you Massachusetts Horse magazine for highlighting Brianna’s passion for horses and her desire to help restore the health and well-being of her peers living in foster care at Birdsong Farm. [December/January 2017: Brianna Pollock: Totally Aligned with Her Purpose] What a great article! I love Massachusetts Horse magazine! I’ve been reading it cover to cover since it came out. Truly, a wonderful resource. Judy Cockerton Executive Director, Treehouse Foundation, Easthampton

To the editor:

Congratulations on Nicole Birkholzer’s Mindful Connections article: A Better Relationship Through Your Horse’s Eyes in the December/January issue of Massachusetts Horse. Inspiring. Thank you for putting out these important words. Betsy Dalton Administrative Assistant, Windrush Farm, North Andover

To the editor:

Thanks Massachusetts Horse for helping us to spread the word about horses who need a home! Heather Robertson Director of Development, MSPCA at Nevins Farm, via Facebook

Let us know your thoughts

and we’ll enter you to win a $25 Cheshire Horse gift card. All letters received by March 5 will have a chance in the drawing. Send your letters to: steph@mahorse.com or Massachusetts Horse, 99 Bissell Rd. Williamsburg, MA 01096.

Massachusetts Horse

The Hard-Headed Facts by Andrea Bugbee

Kit Cat Photogrpahy

HELMETS

his isn’t a magazine article. It’s an intervention.

If you do not absolutely, always, every single time, wear a riding helmet each millisecond that you are mounted five feet in the air, on a free-thinking, free-moving, horny-hooved, half-ton animal so powerful that engine strengths are rated for it, then you need our help. Massachusetts Horse wants to save your beautiful brain.

Some Scary Facts In 2016, the Journal of Neurosurgical Focus published a study revealing that equestrian sports account for 45.2 percent of traumatic brain injury in adults — more than double the number for all contact sports combined. This means that, statistically speaking, your head would be safer if you gave up riding to become a linebacker on your local, adult football team. Furthermore, the American Medical Equestrian Association reports, 8

February/March 2017

“The rate of serious injuries per number of riding hours is estimated to be higher for horseback riders than for motorcyclists and automobile racers.” And, they add, “The use of riding helmets can decrease the incidence of traumatic brain injuries.” The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) cites that nearly half of all traumatic brain injuries are caused by falls; 15 percent are caused by being struck by a blunt object (such as a lacrosse stick, or a horse’s hoof); 14 percent are caused by motor vehicle accidents, and 10 percent are caused by assaults. For the concussion-conscious, this means that barreling down the Mass Pike at 70 mph while telling your older brother that you gave your parents the security code to his phone that time they read his text messages is less risky than hopping on ol’ Dusty for an afternoon trail ride. The CDC defines traumatic brain injury as “ . . . a bump, blow, or jolt to the head that disrupts the normal function of the brain.” Short- and long-term

effects include headache, nausea, vomiting, and slurred speech. A traumatic brain injury can also impair thinking, memory, movement, vision, hearing, and emotional functioning. For individuals hospitalized for traumatic brain injury, the CDC reports that 43 percent still suffer a related disability a full year after the event. Guess what’s been shown to decrease both the number and severity of traumatic brain injuries in equestrians? You got it. Wearing a helmet!

Now a Scary Story “It’s just sad that it takes something awful happening to get people to wear helmets,” says Peter Whitmore, a Bay State horse trainer and owner of It’s a Pleasure Training in Orange. Peter says there have been three or four incidents when a helmet has allowed him to walk away from bad news (a horse rearing and slamming him into an arena wall, for example). But, it was an accident in January of 2010 that stole eight weeks of work

Now That You’re Convinced . . . Finding a good helmet is a cinch, but weeding through all the choices can be confusing. In a nutshell, here’s what you need to know: Get a helmet that is certified by ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials), SEI (Safety Equipment Institute), or Snell (Snell Memorial Foundation). According to information posted on charlesowen.com, “While some standards look closely at preventing the most severe types of head injuries a rider may experience, others protect

courtesy of Resitol

from his life, forcing him to send the horses that were in training with him back to their homes, and making him intensely grateful he’s still around to kiss his kids. “Ironically enough, I wasn’t even on a horse,” Peter says. He and an intern were both riding when the intern’s horse slipped in the mud. The horse went down, pinning the intern beneath him. “The horse was on one of [my intern’s] legs, so he couldn’t get up, and the horse wouldn’t get up,” says Peter. He leapt off his own mount and began coaxing the fallen animal off of the rider. “The horse lunged forward with one leg and caught me right square in the temple with his hoof,” Peter says. “I can only imagine what would have happened if I hadn’t been wearing my helmet. As it is, I spider-fractured my skull. The specialist was shocked that I wasn’t blind or deaf, or both, because it was right over my optic nerve.” “I was blessed,” he says. Like many adults, Peter didn’t grow up wearing a helmet. In fact, it wasn’t until his mother, Sandy Whitmore of Crimson Acres Equestrian Center in Orange, was going through her instructor’s accreditation that he began strapping one on. The examiners had failed her — not because of any errors on her part, but because Peter was in the background, riding without a helmet. It was then that he understood that every time he rides, he is a role model for other equestrians. “How can I expect my students, my clients, to wear helmets if I don’t?” he says. “We don’t lose dignity because of it. We don’t look less professional. It just becomes more and more accepted. Once people make that choice that it’s going to be every time, then it becomes automatic. Now it feels awkward to be without one.”

Protect what matters: Resitol’s RideSafe helmet, a combination of the western cowboy hat and protective headwear preserves the heritage and lifestyle of the American cowboy and is ASTM–SEI certified.

from the more commonplace. No one standard can accurately predict the specific type of accident or fall a rider may experience as there are too many variables to take into account: if the fall is on concrete, grass, or in an arena; whether the rider is kicked when he or she falls; whether the horse is wearing studs/caulks; or if a horse falls on the rider, causing a crush injury. Therefore, a helmet that meets multiple standards has been proven to provide the most comprehensive protection and cover a wider range of the potential accident scenarios a rider might experience.” When comparing two helmets with the same safety standards, however, “They are safety approved and they either pass or fail; there’s no one that’s better than the other,” says Leah Yaylaian, manager of the Saddle Shed, a horse supply and equipment store in South Grafton. Five-hundred-dollar helmets do exist, but most of Leah’s customers are

more economically minded. After safety, they hone in on price, comfort, and adjustability. “Customers usually like the helmets with the dial adjustment in the back. It tightens the band inside the helmet for [an adjustable] fit,” Leah says. “They’re inexpensive and they look good.” These helmets are most popular for young riders who are still growing. Leah says IRH Elite helmets are also popular. Retailing at about $260, “They’re very breathable and secure. Those do well for someone who shows or for the rider who’s not going to grow any more.” Another benefit is that IRH (as well as other helmet manufacturers) will inspect a helmet after impact. A hearty knock on the noggin can compromise protective elements inside the helmet, rendering it unsafe even though it looks perfectly fine. If the company finds the helmet to be damaged, they will replace the helmet at a significant discount. Massachusetts Horse

Local Lives Saved

I was in seventh grade in the early 80s and my “helmet” consisted of a hard, solid, plastic shell covered in faux velvet with a quarter inch of foam and a red satin lining on the inside. No headgear to hold it onto my head, it just had to fit very snug and I’m pretty sure my 80s hair helped hold it on. I don’t remember much about the actual events of that day . . . I fell off at some point during a ride with the ground frozen and no snow cover to buffer a fall. I returned to the barn, untacked my horse, mucked his stall, and fed and watered him. I went into my home, sat down at the kitchen table, and started talking in gibberish to my parents. Being very concerned parents, they took me to the hospital. At the time, no one knew what had happened and I wasn’t coherent enough or able to tell them. I had no visible injuries to help diagnose or confirm any suspicions. After a CAT scan it was determined that I had a fractured skull and a concussion. I have no lingering concussion side effects. It certainly wasn’t the last fall I’ve had in the 40 years since. Was I saved by my helmet, as simple as it was? I believe so. I wear a helmet every time I ride.

I was riding in a hunter pace this fall and aimed my fairly green off-the-track Thoroughbred at an optional ditch. He's very brave, but it was a very scary ditch! He stopped and I went over his head. I don't remember hitting the ground and I became conscious holding the reins while my horse was backing up; freaked out by the ditch. (Thankfully he was fine!) The fall bent the bill of my helmet. I ended up with some pretty scary bruises on my arms and chest, but only a minor (no brain bleed) concussion. I never ride without a helmet and this is one reason why!

On October 9, 2010, something — I don’t really know what — happened. I don’t know what because I have a four- or fiveday hole in my memory. I only have the descriptions of witnesses to tell me that my usually bombproof, seasoned mare spooked at a man walking out of the brush in an unfamiliar field, reared, spun, and took off leaving me unconscious on the ground. I was wearing a helmet. That helmet prevented my skull from shattering, because as my neurologist later told me, without it, “it would have been like throwing a pumpkin off a truck.” I suffered a severe concussion, a skull fracture, and a brain bleed. I spent time in hospitals, recovered slowly, and still experience some balance and memory effects, but I’m alive. I’m alive because of a small investment in a simple technology.

Pinnie Sears, Montague

Kim Toohey, Worcester

Laurie Neely, Orange

February/March 2017

Alison Leaton, Boston

I was riding my horse Julio on the Montague Plains at a relaxing walk when unexpectedly the horse bucked and threw me to the ground. Temporarily paralyzed from the fall, I struggled to call for help. I was able to get to my cell phone and made a 911 call that brought the volunteer fire department to my location. I was airlifted to a nearby medical center and endured four hours of surgery. Amazingly, after months of physical therapy, occupational therapy, and health aid, I made a full recovery. If I wasn’t wearing my helmet, I wouldn’t be here today.

In 1996, I was in the ring in a horse show in southeastern Massachusetts on my gelding when he suddenly bolted in the ring. We jumped the ring and headed out of control in a full gallop around the front of the facility. I was doing everything that I could to slow or stop my horse and circles were not an option. I bailed out and unfortunately hit a truck bumper head first. I woke up on the ground and luckily, with only a concussion. If I was not wearing a helmet, I don't think I’d be here today.

Jaime Meserve, Middleboro

Should It Be Law? There’s no equestrian helmet law in Massachusetts — yet. About six years ago, State Representative Peter Kocot, (D - Hampshire County) listened to a constituent who, as a police officer, had responded to a severe, hospitalizing equine accident in the Sunderland/ Deerfield area. “This police officer thought it was important to improve the safety of equestrian riders throughout the state,” Peter says. And he agreed. Noting state law requiring children under the age of 16 to wear bicycle helmets, as well as increased voluntary helmet use among adults in other sports, such as skiing, he drafted a bill requiring helmets for all equine riders and drivers on public or private lands in the state of Massachusetts. On July 13, 2016 the bill was ordered to its third reading in the House of Representatives. And there it sits. The bill is not dead; it’s just controversial. If the bill were to pass, it would be the most imposing helmet law in the nation, and, as far as requiring helmet use on private land, many say it would be impossible to enforce. Right now, just two states have equine helmet laws. New York requires equestrians under the age of 14 to wear helmets, while Florida requires equestrians under the age of 16 to wear helmets on public lands. This Florida law is called NICHOLE’S LAW for a 12-year-old girl who died hitting her head on pavement as she fell from her horse. She was not wearing a helmet. Passing an “all riders, all the time” helmet law in Massachusetts could also carry an economic punch. Hunt seat riders show in helmets, but western, saddle seat, and carriage driving are helmet optional — and most competitors choose style over safety. Would equine venues such as the Eastern States Exposition and the Three County Fairgrounds suffer under a helmet law if equestrians could show in their choice of headwear 20 minutes away in Connecticut? Peter is open to hearing such concerns, and is currently working with the Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation to consider the matter fully. “If you’re an equestrian and you’re riding a very large animal and that animal spooks, it would be good for the person’s safety if you were wearing a helmet,” Peter says. “The primary goal is to protect public safety, not to curtail anyone’s civil liberties.”

I look so cool in my hat!

One Last Sticky Wicket

Blue Dog Leather 64 South Shore Dr., Orange, Mass. 978.544.2681 bluedogleather.com

February/March 2017

“We follow all the rules of each state that we participate in, in that each of our riders can wear a helmet if they so choose,” says Interscholastic Equestrian Association Co-founder and COO Myron Leff. “All of our hunt seat riders wear helmets.” Because helmets are optional at IEA-recognized western shows, middle- and high-school students competing on western IEA teams are not required to wear helmets.

“The fads and the fashion in ninetynine percent of the horse show world influence the choices the kids are going to make,” says Diane Raucher, who oversees the riding program at Heritage Farm in Easthampton, her family’s business. “When it comes to the competitions, everyone is going for ‘the look’.” Heritage Farm has had a western IEA team, and many of the adults who board horses there ride western. But is western riding safer than English? “If

the rider has a good seat and a strong leg and rides with the horse, it takes a lot to unseat them — but anything can happen,” Diane says. “Olympic level riders fall off and get hurt. A horse can stumble while walking and the rider can fall off.” As far as policy goes, Diane’s vote is to leave helmet rules to the discretion of parents and instructors. “My kids wear their helmets. I wear my helmet. My junior hunt seat riders wear their helmets. My adult western riders make their own choice.” Most of the adults she knows who ride without helmets are thoughtful, committed horse owners. “They’re not necessarily negligent people,” she says. “It’s just not something they do.” At Crimson Acres, the IEA western team has decided to wear helmets, even in the face of criticism. If youth organizations such as IEA required helmet use for all competitors, the “fad” of helmet wearing might start from the bottom up. And if riders grow up wearing a helmet, then, without even thinking, wearing a helmet will absolutely become something they “do.” If you agree, write to the IEA. Write to the western and saddle seat show associations. Many small voices com-

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Massachusetts Horse

What’s Your Excuse?

I grew up without wearing a helmet.

Back in the 1970s, Tab was health food, school playground equipment was mounted over asphalt, Richard Nixon was popular, and Christopher Reeves was leaping tall buildings in a single bound. Professional ice hockey players didn’t wear helmets back then — now they do. We’ve learned a lot in the last 40 years. Be like the Bruins.

It’s my right to choose.

It’s your right to choose to go barefoot while leading your horse, but do you? Riding bare-headed should also make you cringe.

Helmets are ugly.

Fencing helmets are ugly. Space suit helmets are ugly. British police helmets are ugly. Equestrian helmets are really not that bad.

February/March 2017

I can’t be bothered.

One Granby, Connecticut, reader recently fractured four vertebral processes while riding her Quarter Horse in her back yard. She was wearing a helmet, so her head was fine. But she did spend a week using an assistive device to put on her own socks. Now that was a bother . . .

Helmets are uncomfortable.

Today’s helmets are cushioned, padded, highly adjustable, and ventilated. Fitted correctly, they are less annoying than the average bra.

There’s no concussion-proof helmet

True. There is also no burglar-proof house — but I bet you lock your doors at night.

bined will make a huge shout out. Or, if you show in one of these disciplines, add to the fad. Make your helmet part of your most awesome bling.

Peter Whitmore’s Dream “The Northeast is ahead in helmet wearing,” Peter says. “But I think it’s crazy in a world where we expect kids to wear helmets on a scooter or a bicycle that people would ride a horse without a helmet. Is a ribbon more important than a child’s safety?” “My dream is that, twenty years from now, people will just put a helmet on,” Peter says. To him, the helmet question is a no-brainer. Literally. Andrea Bugbee is a Pony Club mom, an IEA mom, and a backyard horse enthusiast. She does most of her writing while she waits for her daughter in the parking lots of numerous wonderful stables scattered throughout western Massachusetts and northern Connecticut.

Hmmm . . . ﬂeece pad, girth cover, thick polo wraps, bell boots . . . am I missing something?

Heads Up for Traumatic Brain Injury!

Seek immediate medical assistance if you observe any of these traumatic brain injury symptoms following an

Your instructor isn’t the only one who wants your helmet to be a good fit; the Centers for Disease Control cares, too. Here are some of its suggestions for picking the safest helmet to protect your beautiful, oh-so-fragile brain. • Do your homework. Visit area tack shops to learn about and try on the helmets they carry. If you choose to shop online, check the manufacturer’s helmet fit instructions and sizing chart. And be prepared to return the helmet for another size. • Choose a helmet that is ASTM, SEI, or Snell certified. No single certification can protect against every type of accident on every type of footing, but these allow you to play to the odds. If your helmet has more than one of these certifications, then all the better.

Get Fit!

equestrian accident: • Persistent or worsening headache • Nausea or vomiting • Weakness or numbness • Poor coordination • Slurred speech • Confusion or agitation • Unusual behavior • Marked drowsiness • One pupil larger than the other • Lack of consciousness • Convulsions or seizures

• Equestrian helmets should cup the head, fitting snugly all around.

• Side straps should make a V directly under your ears.

• Fit your helmet with long hair either tucked in or left down, and then always wear your hair that way when you use the helmet. Some people keep a training helmet fitted to “hair down,” and a separate show helmet fitted for “hair up.”

• Once all adjustable areas are fitted for maximum comfort, shake your head. The helmet should not move.

• Watch for any pressure points. These will likely translate into headaches after long-term wear. • The front rim of the helmet should extend to about one inch above your eyebrow, and the back of the helmet should not touch the top of your neck. • Adjust the chinstrap by giving a big yawn. If the helmet does not pull down, then the chinstrap is too loose.

• Equestrian helmets are like jeans: Sizes vary according to manufacturer and style. As with jeans, go for a good fit rather than the number on the tag. • Look for a helmet that has a generous impact replacement policy. Your helmet really will need to be replaced after a hard hit. This isn’t a sales gimmick invented by profit-hungry helmet companies. Impact compromises inner cushioning (imagine sitting on a piece of Styrofoam). It collapses essential air pockets in areas you can’t see.

Massachusetts Horse

Stefhanie Connors salty dawg equine services Horseperson Feature

Blackstone

by Christina Andersen

Mary Beth Hendrick

shoulder,” Stefh says, fondly, so he tefhanie Connors has been buildearned himself the name Salty Dawg. A ing custom jumps, tack trunks, seasoned veteran in the equitation bandage boxes, bit boxes, and world, he’d competed at New England shadow boxes for her company, Salty Finals and Maclay finals often throughDawg Equine Services, for more than a out his lifetime. As a team, Stefh and decade. You name it, she’s built it. Salty loved competing and soaring over Working out of her garage in jumps together. Blackstone, Stefh designs, builds, paints, and delivers her products to equestrians throughout New England. You may have seen her at events throughout New England and New York as she travels to the Saratoga Springs Horse Show, Vermont Summer Festival, and AIR Show Jumping. Stefh also supplies jumps for the Rhode Island Equitation Finals and sponsors professional riders. Stefh’s story begins as most of ours do — with the love of a horse. A lifelong rider, she began taking lessons at age five and grew up riding at Hidden View Farms in North Smithfield, Rhode Island. With trainer Karen QuirkJohnson, Stefh started as a Walk Trot kid and continued all the way up to Junior 3'6", riding primarily in the Rhode Island circuit. Equitation was Stefh and Salty Dawg in 2006. always her favorite. She rode many different horses over the years, When they moved to a new, quieter and competed at local shows throughbarn the laid back environment allowed out Massachusetts and Rhode Island, their relationship to blossom. However, HITS in New York, and the Vermont there was one problem: there were no Summer Festival. jumps. Along the way, she fell in love with Buying a brand new set of jumps a horse, Salty Dawg, who found his way was too expensive, but as a trusty, loving into Stefh’s heart from a distance. He barn dad, Stefh’s father stepped up to was from Long Island and being leased the plate and built a new jump set for by Holly Hill Stables in Marston Mills Stefh and Salty. Stefh’s dad was an where Stefh met and purchased him. accountant, and what he may have The handsome flea-bitten gray lacked in carpentry skills, he certainly Holsteiner had a big heart and an even made up for with love and kindness. bigger personality. The shipper took a “Building something was out of the liking to him on the trip from New York ordinary for him,” she says. “It really to the Cape and nicknamed him Salty. meant a lot to me.” The name stuck. That jump set made with love and “He was the biggest puppy dog creativity drew a lot of attention from you’d ever met in your life,” Stefh says, Stefh’s peers. “For years people tried to smiling. “He just loved to cuddle.” The buy the jump set,” she says, “but there big warmblood would “come up behind was too much sentimental value you and just rest his head on your attached.” She couldn’t bring herself to

February/March 2017

part with it. Her uncle had also contributed by building her a custom tack trunk. “Throughout my junior career, I found myself traveling with Karen to Winsor Farm Sales in North Scituate, Rhode Island. Farm owners Bill and Abby Lowry were the ‘do-it-yourself type’ of people,” Stefh says. She remembers Bill building a 15-horse trailer inside the indoor arena while riders schooled their horses through the winter. Bill’s father built tack trunks and Stefh picked up a lot from him along the way. Bill gave her some good life lessons throughout her time there and, most noticeably, told her that if she wanted to stay in the horse world she had to get creative because “riding is an extremely tough life and riders are a dime a dozen.” “I knew I’d have to find my niche to stay in the horse world,” says Stefh. “And, thanks to the wise words from Bill, I did just that!” “One day, it just clicked,” she says. “I decided to make jumps to sell.” While studying at SUNY Cobleskill, she began to create custom projects. In her tiny apartment kitchen, she built Salty Dawg Equine Services’ first tack trunk. “And it just grew from there,” she says, smiling. However, woodworking wasn’t always her favorite thing. At her agricultural high school, she took an exploratory woodworking class. “To be honest, I hated it, and had no patience for it,” she says, laughing. “I can’t tell you when it switched. One day a light bulb just turned on.” “Salty Dawg products are for those of us who want to enjoy show-quality products at affordable prices,” says Stefh. “Our jumps are designed to meet the high standards of trainers, equestrian centers, and horse show managers, as well as personal facilities. We offer a wide range of jumps, from schooling standards to custom designs. Jumps are made of high quality, hand-

picked birch and pine, and are painted to last and be weather resistant. Dimensions are carefully tracked to ensure they meet any and all necessary specifications; we do not take short cuts that compromise the integrity of our products.” Something that started off as a hobby business has now become a fulltime job for Stefhanie, and she is grateful for that. She and Salty Dawg parted ways while she was studying agricultural and equine business management in college. After graduating — and once her business began to pick up speed — she decided to name the company after her favorite equine partner. Stefh’s eyes brim with emotion as she says, “It’s a nice way to remember him.” Salty passed away a few years back and now his legacy lives on. Salty Dawg Equine Services has hundreds of happy customers, and continues to grow from referrals and returning customers. “I’ve done every jump you could think of at this point,” says Stefh. She loves walking through craft stores to get inspired for custom projects. Customers can send Stefh a photo of their idea and she will help turn it into reality. Stefh’s father and uncle have been a big help along the way. “I’ll have a vision and I know what I want to do, but I’ll need a little help getting it to work,” she says. “After brainstorming with them, together they just make it work.” Wendy Braymen of Hunter Ridge Farm in Ashaway, Rhode Island, runs a successful hunter/jumper barn and has ridden the same circuit with Stefh for more a decade. She’s a big fan of Salty Dawg’s products and is a long-time customer. She’s owned five of Stefh’s tack trunks and numerous jump sets over the years. She admires the high-quality work, craftsmanship, and creativity that goes into the products. “They make perfect gifts!” Wendy says. She’s both given and received tack trunks and jump sets, and loves all of Stefh’s creations. “Stefh can pretty much get you whatever you want,” says Wendy. No job is too custom for Salty Dawg. Not all her creations are strictly for equestrian uses, either — they’ve even been incorporated into wedding altars. “I’m really happy that Stefh’s found what she loves to do,” says Wendy. “Not everyone gets that opportunity in life.” While no horse has been able to replace Salty, Stefh hopes to have a horse again one day. She’s getting back in the saddle, riding often with her

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friends, and hopes to compete in the show ring at least once in 2017. Stefh is moving Salty Dawg from its original roots in Blackstone to resettle farther west in Monson, where the business will continue to thrive. She’ll have plenty of time to gear up for her busy season from April to October. She also stays extremely busy around the holiday season, making deliveries throughout the Northeast. She’s hoping the new location will allow more people to come to her, which means less time on the road and more time spent doing what she loves — creating custom projects. She’s eager to begin sourcing more wood from local sawmills to continue supporting local businesses as others have supported her throughout the years. To see Stefh’s creations, visit saltydawgequine.com and follow her on Facebook. Growing up on Nantucket, Christina Andersen explored the beaches and rode the trails with her trusty pony, Whinnie. At UMass Amherst, she studied animal behavior with a concentration in equines. After graduation, she taught draft-horse husbandry to future farmers and veterinarians. She’s now a product specialist at SmartPak, and spends her free time riding and driving her adopted draft horses, Bill and Mark.

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Massachusetts Horse

Southampton

by Alessandra Mele

Grindstone Mountain Farm Farm Feature

ou would be hard-pressed to find farm in New York, and he knew working their farm was for sale. I hadn’t been to a horse person in Massachusetts with the land and animals was somethat property since I was a child and who doesn’t have memories of, or thing he always wanted to have in his didn’t remember much, but upon seeat least knows of, a certain 140 acres of life. He established his logging and tree ing it again, realized it was perfect for us.” rolling horse country off College The Southampton facility has Highway in Southampton. plenty to offer for a budding Previously known as King Oak equestrian business. Within the Farm and owned by the Cross 140 acres are multiple barns confamily for more than 30 years, the taining a total of 42 stalls, three spot has been a well-established dressage rings, an outdoor jumphub for Area 1 United States ing ring, an indoor arena, miles Eventing Association (USEA), of groomed cross-country trails held in high regard for its two with substantial jumps, and acres USEA–sanctioned events a year. of open fields great for riding, When news broke in midturn out, and haying. 2016 that the property was changAdria, Erik, and their coming hands, everyone was curious. bined family of four children Adria Pandolfini has become moved onto the property in April, all too familiar with that local and closed on the sale in August. curiosity. When she and her partSo far, they have found their new ner, Erik Loiko, purchased the home to be most accommodating farm in August last year and to both their careers and to raiserected a sign that christened the ing a family together. place Grindstone Mountain Farm, “The farm itself is just magthey were ready to answer everynificent,” Adria says. “It works one’s questions. great for both of us. I can run the “The community reached out equine business and Erik can purto us quite a bit, interested to sue haying. But the most imporhear where we were headed and tant thing is that it allows us to Adria, Erik, Dakota (11), Weston (8), Robert (6), and Jonathan (10). what our plans would be for the spend time together as a family and property and the events that come still run our businesses effectively. We with it,” Adria says, just five months service company, Grindstone Mountain, can always have dinner together at the after closing on the property. “Everyone named for the peak in Westfield across end of the day.” seems very excited for the traditions the street from his childhood home. This has certainly proved essential, we’ll be continuing, and the improveOver the next ten years, he expanded as Adria finds she is busier than ever ments we are going to make.” the business to offer a wide range of since the move. Thirty-one horses curWith that attitude of embracing a services, including trucking and haying. rently reside at Grindstone Mountain cherished heritage while moving toward When he and Adria met, their interests Farm, which is a combination of the future, Adria and Erik are thrilled to and passions aligned naturally, and they boarded horses who were there before be calling such a well-loved place home. found they made a great team. the sale, clients’ horses that moved over “In 2013 we combined our busiwith Adria to Southampton, lesson Finding the Perfect Spot nesses under the name Grindstone horses, and her daughter’s beloved pony. Adria is no stranger to the western Mountain Farm, offering both the hayThe all-level lesson program is Massachusetts equestrian scene. She ing and equine services,” says Adria. All booming with help from Kelly Breck, grew up in the area, riding and compet- that was missing was the perfect piece of who was the program instructor at King ing on the hunter/jumper circuit. After land all their own to pursue it on. Oak and continued the role through a brief stint in college that brought her The couple spent a lot of time the transition. “Kelly runs the lesson to barns in New York and Connecticut, searching for that dream property, program, and I do the show program as she returned to the area in 2004, ready determined to make the right decision. to start a business. Prior to Grindstone “We actively looked for a place for years, well as training with some of the boarded horses,” Adria says. “The lesson Mountain Farm, she established herself but couldn’t seem to find one that schedule is very full at the moment, as a reputable trainer at Amethyst Farm worked for all that we wanted to accomplus Kelly and I coach the Westfield in Amherst, and gained a following of plish,” she says. “Erik is a part-time State University hunt seat loyal clients and a presence in hunter/ Southampton police officer, and is very Intercollegiate Horse Show Association jumper show rings across New England. active within the community. It just so team together here at the farm. We’re Erik also has a love for farming, happened that Erik ran into Fran and pretty busy!” having spent most summers on a family Tom Cross one day, who told him that 18 February/March 2017

Support from Friends

Through the transition to Grindstone Mountain Farm, Adria’s students, boarders, and training clients have remained overwhelmingly supportive and are pleased to see the family settle into a place where the business can flourish. Bethany Rappleyae has known Adria for years, and values Adria’s skill as a trainer, as well as the particular attention she pays to each horse that’s in her care. “I’ve been riding with Adria for about eight years now. She’s helped to take my horse, Moose, and me from the big equitation to the high adult jumpers,” she says. “I’ve always felt like Adria was great at tailoring her instruction and care to each individual horse, and isn’t afraid to break the mold if it will make your horse and your riding better.” As a third year vet student at Cornell University, Bethany has to be away from her horse much of the time, but knows she can trust Adria completely with Moose’s care. “Despite being five hours away, Adria always makes sure to keep me well informed,” says Bethany. “She’s been amazing about finding good riders for him, and if there’s a change, I’m the first to know.” Camille Murray is another student who has followed Adria through various moves, and is excited for all of the potential that lies within Grindstone Mountain Farm. Now a senior at UMass Amherst, Camille came from Paris to study and was thrilled to also be able to continue her love for riding with Adria’s assistance. “I met Adria during my very first week of school, when I didn’t know anyone in the area,” Camille says. “I started taking lessons with her, at first once a week, and then it was twice, then three times a week. My riding has improved dramatically with Adria, and I’ve built a close bond with her and her family that has been a very important part of my college experience.” Camille admires Adria and Erik for their dedication to the farm and tireless work ethic when it comes to the horses. “They do everything themselves, whether it’s cleaning the stalls, managing the property, or looking after the horses,” Camille says. “They’ve been very busy with the new facility, but it is great to see them so happy with the place. They’re hard workers and definitely love what they do, and you can see that.”

Plans for the Future

One of the biggest questions that rumbled among local eventers is what the sale of the farm would mean for the traditional spring and fall horse trials at King Oak Farm. The September 2016 horse trials had been cancelled while the owner transition took place, and concern grew as to whether the popular events would continue. Adria is the first to reassure the community that the beloved events will be running in 2017 at Grindstone Mountain Farm. “Our plan is to have the two USEAsanctioned events this year. We’ve our first event scheduled in May,” she says. “The community seems very excited that we are going to continue the tradition.” She knew from the start she would need support though, and has worked to create a plan that will keep the upcoming events running smoothly and successfully. “We’ve put together the best possible team to help us through this first year,” she says, confidently. “We’ve kept a lot of the original officials, but have brought in some new people from the area to help us out as well. Sharyn Antico from Mount Holyoke College is going to be largely involved. With such a supportive team, we’ll be able to run the events this year and then reassess to see what changes we can make to improve, or determine if we should try something else altogether. We’ve set ourselves up for success.” Adria is eager to help the events reach their full potential under the Grindstone Mountain name, and has already started pursuing new sponsorships with some early success. “CWD Saddles will be at our spring event with a tent, so we already have some businesses that are trying to help us make it a little bigger and offer a little more to competitors,” she says. “I want to make the event worth everyone’s time and try to grow it.” In addition to the horse trials, Adria is starting to offer some of her own events for the hunter/jumper community, and is looking forward to doing more this year. “This past year, we did one local mini hunter pace, a clinic with Ken Whelihan, and held a bit of a derby for our jumper riders. Everyone had a good time!” As far as physical changes to the

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farm, Adria is pleased to report that there’s not much to do aside from maintenance and a few improvements. “We’re not going to change much, the Crosses certainly took care of things and the facility is in great shape,” she says. “We just put new footing in the indoor ring, and we would like to make a larger outdoor arena for jumping, as well as some added turn out areas.” Surrounded by an energized community, talented riders and horses, and supportive friends and family, Adria and Erik feel empowered to make Grindstone Mountain their own, while carrying on a tradition of excellent horsemanship. The place is first and foremost their home, and they are embracing the community that comes with it. “Our passion is in the family part of this, and it’s so exciting for us to finally be able to live where we work,” Adria says. “We’re happy to be here and have lots to look forward to!” Alessandra Mele, who lives in Wilbraham, works in marketing at W. F. Young/Absorbine. She enjoys spending time with the horses on her family’s farm, especially riding her Quarter Horse, JoJo.

Massachusetts Horse

Scout Murphy Taking Responsibility Youth Spotlight

Sandwich by Cora Shillinglaw

Cora Shillinglaw

any of us can think back to the day Caroline Rider Clinic. Daisy had her second eye removed just a few time when we first sat proudly weeks before loading into a trailer for in the saddle, but for Scout the four-hour drive. Caroline taught Murphy of Sandwich, her first time on them many strategies to help Daisy horseback goes back to when she was cope with losing her eyesight. barely three weeks old, reports her mother, Michelle Murphy. You could safely say that, at seven years old, Scout has had more horse-related life experiences than many adult riders. Scout was riding at age two on her pony, Tonto, in lead line barrel racing classes at the Cape Cod Rough Riders horse shows. By age five, she was bringing home blue ribbons even though she would “rather have won the pink ones.” Currently, Scout has been faced with a new challenge — training and riding her blind pony, Daisy. Scout’s family rescued Daisy three years ago from an auction for horses that were heading to slaughter. The decision to rescue Daisy came at a point when Scout and her friends had developed a home school horseback riding program. Michelle thought it was time for the group of friends to be able to go out for rides together, instead of taking turns. In order to do that, they needed Scout and Daisy. to get an additional horse. They used rhythm beads (a neckAt the time of Daisy’s rescue, she lace that Daisy wears which creates a was completely sighted with one beautirhythmic sound with her steps) to ful blue eye. Scout began riding her replace the verbal cues that Scout had right away. She lost sight in one eye taught Daisy. Caroline felt that the verabout six months later and that didn't bal cues were making both Scout and stop Scout from continuing to ride her. Daisy more nervous. Daisy’s eye was removed six months At first, Scout was very apprehenlater and she gradually lost sight in the sive to stop using the words. “I felt petriother eye. Losing her vision in the fied and was worried that Daisy would other eye and the fact that Daisy was be nervous, too,” says Scout. experiencing discomfort led Scout and She had taught Daisy a vocabulary her mom to make the decision to that helped her navigate when the terremove the second eye. This didn’t rain on the trails changed. “I would use deter Scout one bit; in fact, it inspired words like down, up, rock, and log to help her to learn new ways to communicate Daisy know what was ahead on the with Daisy. trail,” says Scout. Recently, Scout, Michelle, and It’s taking some time to get used to Daisy drove to Vermont to attend an all-

February/March 2017

the rhythm beads, but mom Michelle has noticed a positive difference in both Daisy and Scout. Essential oils like lavender have also helped relax the duo. Michelle puts some on Daisy’s muzzle and on Scout’s scarf before they head out for their daily adventures. Both strategies have helped both Daisy and Scout with their courage and confidence. As Scout looks into Daisy’s face, she smiles proudly and says, “What I love most about Daisy is that she’s so trusting and brave. She’s my best friend.” Juniper is Daisy’s pet goat that the family adopted when he was just eight weeks old. Since Daisy is now completely blind, it’s no longer safe for her to live with the herd of five other horses on the farm. Juniper has turned into quite the companion goat and has fully embraced his role as Daisy’s protector. “Whenever I’m getting ready to go for a walk with Daisy, Juniper will take the lead line and will try to walk Daisy,” says Scout. “He likes to go for his hikes on the trails just as much as Daisy!” Scout has developed a routine in which Daisy is either ridden or walked every day. The average ride that this dynamic duo is four to ten miles. The love of exploration is a shared family value and you will often see Scout’s dad walking along with the pair. Scout refers to him as her “safety officer.” “Daisy loves her job of being ridden,” says Scout. “It makes her feel special and she loves scratches under her chin.” Scout has daily responsibilities around the farm. She has to walk or ride all three of her horses — Daisy, Tonto the pony, and Frodo, a 10-yearold 28" black Miniature that they have aspirations to teach to drive. Scout’s also responsible for cleaning Daisy’s paddock, feeding the horses, dogs, and chickens, as well as daily grooming for the horses.

Up next, Michelle plans to take Scout to Paris, France, and Montana, where they’ll explore settings that Scout

has read about in the books that are part of her home-school curriculum. When Scout is older, Michelle’s dream is to ride the entire Lewis and Clark Trail with Scout. To put that into perspective, Lewis and Clark’s great journey west began in Washington D.C. and concluded at the Pacific Ocean, covering 4,600 miles and including some of the most beautiful and rugged areas of America. Scout is one the most courageous and conscientious seven-year-olds out there. She’s eager to get her message across to other girls that share her undying love and devotion for horses. “I want people to know that horses are for life,” says Scout. “Take care of them and be responsible for them. I didn’t start off with a blind pony. I have a pony that went blind and it’s my responsibility to take care of her for the rest of her life.” A native of Cape Cod, Cora currently resides in Wellfleet with her husband, two rescue dogs, and her horse Braveheart. Cora is a threee-day eventer and works for SmartPak in the IT department.

Cora Shillinglaw

Equestrian vaulting is another interest area for Scout, as if she doesn’t already have a full plate for a seven-yearold. Scout’s interest in vaulting sprouted from a demonstration at Equine Affaire. Equestrian vaulting is an outlet for Scout to help develop her balance and confidence — two very important skills to have when you’re training a blind horse. It’s a great combination of Scout’s love of gymnastics and horses. Scout rides with the Renaissance Farm Vaulting team in Temple, New Hampshire, and every Monday, they make the three-hour trip for a lesson. The horses are typically draft breeds, easily standing more than 16 hands. At first, Scout was not too sure about climbing aboard such a large horse, but over time, her confidence has blossomed and you can now find her riding Avalon, the 17-hand Belgian. Scout and her mom have a passion for traveling. They’ve ridden on the battle fields of Gettysburg (which Scout says is her favorite riding memory) and herded cattle on camels in Mongolia across the Gobi Desert. “Riding a camel is like riding a slinky,” says Scout.

Scout, Daisy, and Juniper.

Massachusetts Horse

Monroe State Forest

Monroe

Trail Guide

by Stacey Stearns

travelling 2.3 miles from Route 2, take a left at the fork, and the trailhead on River Road is another eight miles. Drive carefully; the roads are narrow and steep with drop-offs in places. My ears were popping and I could feel the engine working to get us up the hills and mountains. DCR has two parking areas; one is

Stacey Stearns

s soon as I stepped out of the vehicle, it was evident that I had chosen a challenging time of year to explore Monroe State Forest. But I had been here before. I drove in on Route 2 West, through Charlemont, and then onto Zoar Road. Driving parallel to the Deerfield River, I was taken back to warm summer days of whitewater kayaking. But today, I was exploring the trails on foot that Bay State equestrians can enjoy on horseback. The cold December air and snow cover created a bright, clean canvas. Monroe State Forest is in the northern Berkshires of western Massachusetts, bordering Vermont, in the towns of Monroe and Florida. The Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) manage the forest. An informal poll of my equestrian friends in the area found that no one had ridden here, but they were definitely intrigued after hearing more about it. As an endurance and competitive trail rider, I often hear that we don’t have real hills in southern New England. Traipsing through the woods of Monroe State Forest will quickly change the mind of any non-believer. These are some rugged trails. During the 19th century, Monroe State Forest was farmland and oldgrowth forest. As is noted on the DCR website: “The forest has reclaimed much of the farmland and pastures that previously existed here in the 1800s. Only cellar holes and stone walls remain; stark memorials to the rugged individuals who once wrested a living from this rocky soil.”

Finding Monroe

Monroe State Forest is tucked into the northwestern corner of Massachusetts, so many riders will be coming from the east when traveling to Monroe. Take state Route 2 West through Charlemont. Then, a right on the road marked with a sign for Rowe-Monroe, and follow the Deerfield River. After 22

February/March 2017

at the junction of Main Road and Raycroft Road, which is a poorly maintained road. Here, you’ll find the traditional brown DCR signage. The other parking area is off River Road, also marked with signage, and I found several other options on River Road. TransCanada operates on the Deerfield River and provides parking areas. Bear Swamp Visitor Center has another large, paved parking area on River Road. There was a picnic area owned by TransCanada that I had all to myself, and the TransCanada Dunbar Brook Trail parking area was just across the street. I also stopped at the Fife Brook section of the Deerfield River parking area for catch and release fishing and explored trails. Although I saw the traditional brown DCR signs, there were also TransCanada signs in Fife. Directions to both DCR parking areas, and trail maps are available on the DCR website at mass.gov. If parking in one of the other parking areas, you’ll need to ride on the road to reach DCR trails. There’s a lot of private property in the area, and it’s well marked. Fortunately, the roads didn’t have much

traffic. No matter where you park, print a map at home, there aren’t any available. (I saved the trail map in the iBooks app on my phone.) The TransCanada signs have maps you can snap a picture of with your phone, and refer to out on the trails. The area is remote. I only saw a couple of other cars on the roads the entire afternoon. This is a very different story in the summer, when the river and warmer weather bring people out in droves (myself included), but today, I enjoyed the peace and quiet that winter at the river brings to the area. Monroe is a large wilderness area and wildlife habitat. In addition to fox, red squirrels, and raccoons, there are also deer, moose, and bears. Make your presence known; this is black bear country. It’s also a Lyme tick habitat, and riders should take preventative measures for themselves and their horses. Riders should be cautious, and carry a map, given the vast number of acres and limited number of trail users. There’s no cell service. Trails are in rough condition; this is stated on the DCR website. A ride here needs to be well thought out, with a trail savvy horse.

Out Riding It

Deep valleys and steep mountains accent the forest. Pine trees in Monroe are huge — up to 140 feet. Much of the forest is old-growth eastern hemlock and northern hardwood trees. The steep slopes — in some places dropping 1,100 feet in a half mile down to the Deerfield River — have discouraged loggers. As with many DCR properties, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) built infrastructure — in this case, the Raycroft Lookout, where forest visitors can enjoy views of the Hoosac and Green Mountain ranges, as well as the Deerfield River. Rustic overnight shelters for hikers are available on the trail. Connecting three trails creates a 9.3-mile loop, but in many places it’s a

hiking trail with steep slopes and drops. You need an experienced trail horse to ride here and, with snow on the trails, it wasn’t safe for horses. The scenic vistas on the map come with a price tag of technical trail that’s not appropriate for many horses, but does reward visitors with a great view. For Bay State equestrians, the snowmobile trails in the forest are a better choice. The vistas on hiking trails extend to Mount Monadnock in New Hampshire and Mount Greylock in Massachusetts. The summit of Spruce Mountain is the high point, at 2,730 feet. The spruce trail is marked with blue blazes — again it’s technical. You can view the Berkshire East Ski Area from just below the summit of Spruce Mountain. Dunbar Brook was loud and powerful with water rushing over rocks and charging down the side of the mountain after early December snowstorms. It drops 700 vertical feet in two miles, forming waterfalls, rapids, and pools. The sound of rushing water is a constant and familiar companion on the trail and adds a different perspective to your ride. At the Fife Brook section of the Deerfield River, I went down

to the bank of the river. You can water your horse if there aren’t any fishermen. Back up the hill, the trail runs parallel to the river. Each season in Monroe brings its own unique challenges. Snowmelt on non-maintained, steep and technical trails creates slippery conditions in the spring. Summer brings a burst of visitors and wildlife. During the fall, one must be aware of hunters. Despite the challenges, Monroe State Forest is worth the effort in any season. As I drive east along Route 2 toward home at the end of the day, the sky is light pinks and blues, the color of cotton candy, highlighting the hills and mountains of the Berkshires in a lovely purple hue. Although I was cold and tired, I knew that I’d be back for another adventure, to explore more trails in Monroe State Forest. Happy trails! Stacey Stearns, a lifelong equestrian from Connecticut, enjoys trail riding and endurance with her Morgan horses.

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Massachusetts Horse

On the Trails

Mindful Connections

by Nicole Birkholzer

sn’t it odd? One day you move along the trail, no spooks, no unexpected tempo changes, and the next ride, you feel grateful you’ve got your helmet on because your horse is dancing the cha-cha down the pine needle path. Why do some trail rides go so smoothly, while others are more nerve wracking for both you and your horse? There can be many reasons for a trail ride gone bad. Maybe you’re more stressed or distracted than usual that day, but maybe your horse is coming to the ride with more tension than normal and needs your help to settle down before you mount up. The reasons vary for our horses to become unsettled, and when I work and communicate with horses, they’re always happy to relay what went on prior to the trail ride that influenced the negative ride. Duke’s owner contacted me because he’d acted out of character on

February/March 2017

Preparation for a Smooth Ride

their last trail ride. They had taken the trailer to a location a few miles from the farm, unloaded, and tacked up without obvious problems. But when his owner led Duke to the mounting block, and was ready to step into the stirrup, Duke suddenly backed up at rapid speed. His owner was surprised; this was unlike Duke. It took them a few attempts before the owner was able to get into the saddle, and throughout the ride Duke seemed more forward than usual. When I asked Duke what had happened that day, he conveyed that, “sometimes on the trailer we get surprised.” I got the sense that sudden noises, like a loud motorcycle going by or a big truck passing, that come out of nowhere can be a shock to the equine system. I could feel how Duke, locked up in a small space like the trailer, feels trapped and not in control of his hooves. Because he’s not able to move

and release the jolt he had experienced, it gets stuck in his body. Experiencing this kind of shock to the system leaves a horse a little jittered coming off the trailer. If there’s no chance to release the stowed-up energy — by walking or trotting it off, rolling on the ground, shaking the body, or snorting it out — the horse now tries to cope while being tacked up. He might move around a bit more when you come with the saddle pad, might flinch a bit as the saddle is tightened. Then, the anticipation of a person stepping up while Duke is still concerned about his own nervous energy cruising through his veins, can add more tension. We, the rider, might not be aware of what’s going on . . . we’re fixing our helmet, zipping up the jacket, chatting with our fellow trail riders, and are most likely not present with our horse as we are ready to mount up. Not being present with our horse is

cles are twitching — like he’s removing horse and rider because it brings both hard for him on a good day, but for a into the present moment, connects horse full of nervous energy, it might be a fly — it’s another indicator that a lot of nervous energy is running through mind and body, and offers a moment of all that’s needed to make him avoid the his system. This energy needs to be deep connection before heading out mounting block. released before heading out on the trail. together as trail partners. Horses don’t want to hurt us. But Duke’s owner understood. Next time you’re heading for the horses are sensitive prey animals that What could she do to help release trails and sense your horse is more can only hold a certain amount of anxthe tension in his body? Based on what nervous than usual, consider one of my ious energy in their bodies before the favorite quotes by tension needs to Ray Hunt. He be released in Start each practice by bringing yourself into the present moment through an always asked, some form. And, “What happened if he can’t abdominal breath. Inhale through your nose, exhale through your mouth. Ahhh . . . before what haprelease the tenpened happened?” sion, moving See the world away from the through your mounting block horse’s eyes and is the horse sayconsider what ing “No, no, could have caused don’t get on, that added anxiety? it’s not safe. I’m The strong wind not safe.” that blew around In Duke’s the barn overnight, case, the quesrattling the metal tion became: roof? A quick cold how could spell that came as a Duke’s owner surprise and has know that Duke 1. Stand next to your horse’s shoulder, leaving 2. With the next deep breath (inhale through your the horses more on was a little on about two feet of distance between you and your nose, exhale through your mouth) gently put your edge? The plow edge coming off horse. Take a deep belly breath: inhale through hand behind your horse’s withers. Take another that pushed the the trailer and your nose, expand your abdomen, and exhale deep breath. through your mouth. If your horse moves forward, snow out of the what could she go with him and stop when he stops. Take another driveway early in do about it? deep breath. the morning while When I the horses were still asked Duke, he resting? A new pashad a few ideas. ture mate that has First off, his upset the order of owner could see the herd? All sure it in his eyes if shocks to the he’s frazzled. equine system. That makes These, and sense. The many other barnhorse’s eye yard disturbances, reveals a lot when affect your horse we take a close and can therefore look. Is the eye affect your ride. soft and relaxed? 4. Breathe until you see — or feel — a shift in your Taking a few A good sign he horse: a deep breath, licking and chewing, dropmoments prior to had a smooth ping his head, or resting a leg. Gently remove your 3. Breathe deeply and consciously alongside your hand and let your horse sink into the experience. horse. Your horse might be surprised by your calm saddling up, contrailer ride. Does Breathe along. When you and the horse feel compresence. Become aware of his experience. Is your necting with your the center of the plete, begin your intended activity. hand comfortable for him? Adjust if necessary. horse, calming his eye appear more mind and body — solid, even stern? and your own, will be a great start for a A possible sign that there is tension in Duke had imparted, I knew that one of successful ride. his body. Is he showing the white of the my favorite mindful activities — using eye while the nostrils are tightened up? breath and touch — would be a great To download the above graphic (free), visit Clear sign one should not pop into the way for Duke and his owner to calm mindful-connections.com/mindfulsupport. saddle without tuning in and helping down and tune in. When a horse is him drop the tension. revved up, his nervous system needs Nicole Birkholzer is a horse advocate, animal The second thing is that his owner calming. A simple and effective way to intuitive, and the author of Pet Logic. As the can tell he’s stressed because he’s more do that is to use your hand and breathe creator of Mindful Connections©, Nicole is flinchy — sensitive to the touch. Duke right along the spine of the horse pioneering a new approach to horsemanship suggested that, while he’s tied to the where part of the nervous system is where horses are honored as soul companions trailer, his owner should put her hand located. and partners. To learn more about Nicole’s service near his withers and if his skin and musThis activity is so helpful for the go to nicolebirkholzer.com. Massachusetts Horse

New England Equine Rescue North

West Newbury

by Holly Jacobson

nyone keeping horses during Massachusetts winters is all too familiar with frozen fingers and toes, icy ground, solid water buckets, and gates snowed shut. For Mary Martin, the founder and president of New England Equine Rescue North (NEER North) in West Newbury, it’s simply another day of chores mixed with constant networking and an upbeat attitude. It’s truly her labor of love to help people keep their horses and to help horses needing new homes. “Often we get horses from divorce cases or people who are elderly, or die and their spouse or family don’t know or want horses,” says Mary. “Sometimes it’s people who decide they want to rescue from auction . . . and end up over their heads with an animal.” Mary honed her relationships with horses while growing up in Topsfield where her grandfather took Thoroughbreds off the track for resale. “[When we were] kids, he’d give us each three horses, and you got to keep one if you restarted two for him,” says Mary. Mary managed several barns along the way and, in 2006, got involved with New England Equine Rescues in Rhode Island, a network established to help foster and place at-risk horses. As her contacts grew mainly in Massachusetts, she split off and launched NEER North. NEER North offers very flexible arrangements and help to horse owners. “Someone may need a temporary companion for a single horse, or trailering help, or feed credits to tide them over after a job loss or other unexpected hardships,” Mary says. Mary’s always upfront and truthful to those fostering or adopting. She discusses quirks and known issues of each 26

February/March 2017

Lend a Hoof

horse. And, horses can always come back to NEER North. Knowledgeable fosters are tremendous assets, as most horses benefit from being in a consistent environment.

In the past eighteen months, NEER North took in 31 horses, found adoptive homes for 21, and placed seven in foster care situations where the horses are making good progress toward adoption readiness.

Foster Help and Forever Homes

“I’ve known Mary for many years,” says Kathy Borylo, who operates Springtide Farm in Boxford. Kathy was looking to add a lesson horse to her busy hunter/jumper barn that also has an Interscholastic Equestrian Association (IEA) team. She agreed to foster a coming five-year-old Paint mare with blue eyes as a prospective lesson horse. “One year later, she’d grown from 14.1 to almost 16 hands!” says Kathy. Kathy renamed the mare Joyce, since she already had a Blue in the barn. The mare needed time to get stronger, gain weight, and learn some refreshers on manners. She now fits great in Kathy’s program and has earned permanent resident status. The lessons of a project horse really resonate with Kathy and her students. “I love to take on green horses and

make them,” she says. “I also have really good riders, kids on my IEA team or kids coming up through the ranks who will never have their own horse.” Bringing along a green horse, or one with trust issues, teaches patience to the riding students in the process. “It’s a way give back,” Kathy says, and she feels that it gives her program a good balance and appreciation for the work everyone puts in. When Mary told Kathy about a recently gelded medium pony named Mojo — who was a handful — she took in the terrified pony. He has now turned the corner with lots of treats and careful handling. “If they turn out to be lesson horses, great, but not all horses can handle that,” says Kathy. “If not, we’ll find them another home or a different job.” Mojo is already adapting, enjoying the work, and soaking up the attention. For Kathy, it’s a mindset. “I used to have purebred show-quality dogs, now my dogs are all rescues, too.” Wendy Wood of Hamilton adopted a donkey named Sal from NEER North in the spring of 2016. He’d been surrendered to a rescue in Maine that worked just with horses, but they took him in and asked for Mary’s help in placing him. Sal had a large sarcoidosis on his belly that was going to require an expensive surgery with no guarantee of permanent success, but Mary agreed to take him. (A sarcoid is a tumor found on the skin of horses, donkeys, and mules. It’s one of the most common abnormal tissue growths seen in horses.) She was able to raise some

money toward his treatment, and Dr. Derek Cavatorta of SRH Veterinary of Ipswich, who is also a member of NEER North’s board of directors, performed the surgery. “As there’s really no guarantee that it might not return and need further treatment, his future was a little uncertain,” says Wendy. “I’m pleased to say Sal’s in excellent health and an absolute joy to be around. Dr. Cavatorta checks him regularly and is even teaching him to drive!”

NEER North’s Feed Fund

The NEER North Feed Fund assists local owners who are struggling to feed their horses. The program is funded by grain tag and proof-of-purchase redemptions. The participating companies are Nutrena, Agway, Triple Crown, Blue Seal, and Lucerne. It’s simple to help support this vital program by collecting grain tags and/or proof of purchases. “We only give feed credits to those in crisis and the purpose is to help people keep their animals,” says Mary. “This is a way of funding that really works.” To learn more, visit neernorth.org for specifics on how to help and how to get assistance.

Volunteers Rock

“My shift at the barn is the highlight of my week,” says Deb Blagg, who’s been a volunteer at NEER North for a little more than four years. “I work one morning a week, and I help with mucking, feeding, and grooming. I’ve always loved horses. I took lessons and rode as a teenager, but stepped away from that world for several decades while working in Boston and raising my kids. Now that I’m an empty-nester, volunteering at NEER North has given me a chance to reconnect with horses in a meaningful way and to make friends with people who share a love of animals.” A writer in her day job, Deb also helps with NEER North communications, fund-raising appeals, and publicity on an ongoing basis. “Mary would give me a hard time for saying this, but she’s an inspiring woman,” Deb says. “With very few resources, she’s built a volunteer organization that saves and rehomes at-risk horses who would never have a chance without her commitment, patience, knowledge, and vision. She’s also brought together a community of peo-

ple who understand the challenging and worthwhile work that gets done at NEER North and are willing to do whatever they can to help out.” Ginger Teal has been a volunteer for more than six years and helps in roles from morning chores to the newsletters to the website. Ginger rode as a child, but didn’t have much of a horse background. “I was introduced to NEER North by a friend, and I enjoy the people and animals I’ve met there,” Ginger says. “Mary’s remarkable to do what she does with just donations and volunteers. It’s doing something local, which I like, and it’s a cause I enjoy supporting any way I can.” “What stands out is that many of the horses we get [have been] thrown away and Mary brings them back to life, mentally and physically. The change, sometimes in a very short time, is incredible. I’m a believer in the work Mary does.”

Trailers 2017

Buying the Farm

In 2015, Mary was able to secure a property with an older barn in West Newbury, after the place she had been leasing on a sheep farm was put up for sale. A couple of very generous supporters helped provide down payments so money would not be diverted from helping the horses. With 13 acres and a house on site that lets Mary monitor the animals 24/7, NEER North has a real home now. There’s still a lot of improvement work to be done. The barn’s foundation has only been half restored and wrestling the heavy doors isn’t efficient. The outdoor sheds were former carriage storage areas, so have low ceilings for the taller horses. “Ideally, we’d want real run-in sheds, and a sand ring would be fantastic,” says Mary. One perk is added space for NEER North’s Tack Store, which gets donations from SmartPak, Dover Saddlery, and individuals, so that there’s a fun, eclectic mix of items, clothing, supplements, blankets, assorted tack, and boots. Christmas cards featuring NEER North’s own donkey models made it onto the Ellen Degeneres Show highlighting animal shelters. Mary suggests the farm would be an ideal spot for anyone interested in

running a 4-H program out of NEER North. In addition to the ever-changing cast of horse characters, there are two resident sheep, a pot-bellied pig, and a few chickens. Of course, no barn is complete without a rascally barn cat, and NEER North’s Tom Cat (that’s his name and he’s a neutered rescue!) not only keeps busy on the farm supervising all activities, he’s ultra photogenic, offering wry commentary. To see what Tom Cat is up to, follow him at facebook.com/ TomCatNEERNorth. “We welcome all volunteers, horse savvy or not, and love to have people inquire about the many nice animals that come to us needing another chance,” says Mary. “When a match works, everyone wins, and it’s the best feeling.” To lend a hoof, visit neernorth.org. Holly Jacobson, a freelance writer, lives in Essex County, teaching her retired Quarter Horse tricks while she pursues new goals in para dressage and para reining.

Massachusetts Horse

News in Our Community Overherd

In early December, Smith College in Northampton announced its decision to transition its equestrian program from a varsity team sport to a club sport, and to close its on-campus barn, Fox Meadow Farm. This change will take effect in the fall of 2017, allowing the current varsity team to finish their Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA) season. The decision came out of two years of discussions, weighing the complexities of animal care, barn management, working with outside vendors, managing liability, and student interest. The college’s priority is to focus athletic efforts on National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) sanctioned sports, which does not include riding. “This was a difficult decision,” says Kristin Hughes, director of athletics and recreation, in a news release put out by Smith College. “But we believe it’s in the best interest of Smith’s athletics program, which aims to be a leader in NCAA–sanctioned sports competition on the national level. Equestrian competition at the club level will allow our riders to maintain the same competition schedule while increasing student leadership and involvement in the sport. In January, we began to coordinate the logistics involved with developing a club program, with significant input from our student athletes.” The school claims that the decision is strategic and not financial. This came as a shock, not only to the Smith College equestrian team, but 28

February/March 2017

to IHSA Nationals year after year. We’re ramping up efforts to be heard, and are prepared to speak out against the administration on behalf of the riders, as well as future Smith equestrians.” To learn more about efforts to maintain the current program, and to sign

Smith College

Smith College to Drop Varsity Equestrian Team, Close Barn

also to many alumnae who had ridden for the team, spent time at Fox Meadow Farm, and participated in the community riding program. Deeply disappointed, a group of concerned students and alumnae formed the Save Smith Equestrian Committee, and began out-

The Smith College 2016–17 IHSA Team and head coach Sue Payne. Smith College announced its decision to transition its equestrian program from a varsity team sport to a club sport and to no longer operate its oncampus barn, Fox Meadow Farm in Northampton.

reach with a website, petition, Facebook page, and regular meetings. “We were very upset upon hearing the decision, but not to the point that we couldn’t think clearly. We’re very motivated to keep the equestrian program running as it is,” says Jess Pelaez, Smith alumna and spokeswoman for the Save Smith Equestrian Committee. “We first and foremost want the barn to stay open, as it makes horses and equestrian sport accessible to a wide variety of students, as well as the broader Northampton community. We also want to see the team maintain its varsity level. The team currently has 22 members and is very competitive, riding alongside some of the top teams in the country and sending riders

the petition, visit savesmith equestrian.com.

n Alessandra Mele

Avoca’s Surgery and Recovery

Avoca, a beautiful 14-year-old buckskin Pryor Mountain Mustang mare, has been part of the Bay State Equine Rescue (BSER) in Oakham since the organization was founded in the fall of 2002. Avoca found her way to the rescue a few months later, in the spring of 2003. She came from a Pryor Mountain Mustang breeder when she was only six weeks old because she was born with bilateral cataracts, so the breeders were going to euthanize her. After BSER took Avoca, she went to Tufts to have the cataracts removed. She grew up strong and, with

a characteristic (and endearing) head tilt, adapted to the little sight she had left. Throughout the years, Avoca coped with only being able to see shadows, and confident rescue volunteers were able to work with her and ride her in familiar areas. Unfortunately, Avoca’s left eye started to get worse over the summer of 2016. It started to turn white, and her head tilt grew more dramatic. The vet recommended enucleation (removal of the eye). The Buck Hill Veterinary Services did an excellent job and the surgery was successful. Thanks to generous public donations, we are able to do our work to help horses like Avoca. Between Avoca’s GoFundMe page and direct donations to the rescue, we raised $2,000 of our $3,000 goal to put toward Avoca’s surgery and recovery. We’re an entirely nonprofit, volunteer-based organization, and your financial support allows us to achieve our goal of healing horses and helping them find their forever homes. It’s not too late to do your part to help the horses of BSER! To learn more about the rescue’s mission, the horses, and information on donating, find us on Facebook and at baystateequinerescue.org.

n Megan Koski

Independence Stables Hosts Annual Tack Sale

Independence Stables in Belchertown will host its annual tack sale in the indoor arena on February 25, beginning at 11 a.m. The tack sale has become much anticipated for the great deals on a variety of new and used tack items covering all disciplines, including west-

ern and English saddles, show apparel, boots, barn equipment, and more. This year, all proceeds from vendor spots will benefit Peaceful Valley Donkey Rescue in Granby. Vendor spots are available for $10, and interested vendors should contact Dottie Brittingham-Foreman at (413) 284-0371 or independencestable@yahoo.com to reserve a spot. Vendors should bring a blanket, tarp, or table to display their tack. To find out more, go to independencestablellc.com.

n Alessandra Mele

We have your horse.

Always a nice selection of horses and ponies for sale. Watch videos and view photos at HeritageFarmEasthampton.com.

Lalobarun Ranch Wins Horse Farm of Distinction Award

The Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation (MFBF) recently honored 35 horse farms and stables statewide with the designation of MFBF 2017 Horse Farm of Distinction and Lalobarun Ranch in Newbury was one of the select group which earned the award. Lalobarun Ranch is a breeding, boarding, training, and riding academy owned by Eileen Cashman. The ranch’s horses have won numerous national and international awards and stands Lil More Conclusive, a 2004 APHA, PtHA, PHAA stallion. Lalobarun Ranch gives clinics, seminars, and trail rides. To learn more, visit lalobarun.com.

Absorbine Celebrates 125 Years

East Longmeadow-based company, Absorbine, is celebrating an important milestone and a legacy that began with an extraordinary couple: Mary Ida and Wilbur Young. When the Youngs originally formulated Absorbine Veterinary Liniment in 1892, they were pursuing a humane method of treating lameness in their beloved, hardworking horses. That spirit of innovation and passion for the well-being of our equine partners has persisted for 125 years, and lies in the roots of everything Absorbine does. In 2017, Absorbine celebrates with limited edition anniversary packaging and exclusive offers. Throughout the year, there will be lots of exciting initiatives. The release of special, limited edition anniversary packaging for all Absorbine Veterinary Liniment bottles will kick off the year, and can be seen on shelves in early spring. The design features vintage elements inspired by the original edition of the product, and will surely be a nostalgic treat for horse owners who know the traditional ochre bottle and distinct scent of minty green liniment from their childhood.

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Massachusetts Horse

Bolton Equestrian Property

Breathtaking 2.3-acre equestrian property located in desirable Bolton, Massachusetts. Features sunfilled, mid century/modern home (four bedroom, two baths), four-stall barn with adjoining paddock, 40' x 60' workshop, and detached one-room office. Esteemed public school system. Perfect for home business. Requires updates. $649,000. For sale by owner. Contact seller at (508) 335–3175.

(508) 335-3175 30

February/March 2017

Additionally, a portion of all proceeds generated from Absorbine Veterinary Liniment sales in 2017 will be donated toward efforts of Brooke, the world’s largest international equine welfare charity. “We at Absorbine are proud of our unique heritage, and the one hundred twenty-five-year legacy that has taken the form of several successful animal health care brands, regarded internationally for their quality and dependability,” says Chris Jacobi, president of Absorbine. “However, we know that it’s the dedication and passion of our loyal customers that has allowed us to make such progress since 1892, and this celebration is our opportunity to give back and express our gratitude. [Customers] are the reason we have become the horse world’s most trusted name and we intend to live up to that name for years to come.” To learn more about

Absorbine Veterinary Liniment, other Absorbine products, and the 125-year history of the Absorbine brand, visit absorbine.com.

n Alessandra Mele

Companion Horses Find Homes at Fee-Waived Event

As the only open admission shelter in New England for horses, the MSPCA at Nevins Farm in Methuen often becomes home to companion horses that have nowhere else to turn because they are unable to be ridden. Horses with racing injuries, older horses, and horses with medical conditions that prevent them from being able to carry a person on their back — but not from being a good friend — find themselves here, hoping for a kindhearted adopter to come their way. This past fall, with a dozen such horses in our stalls, we knew that we

needed to find more creative avenues to find them great homes. Building off the success of our longstanding feewaived adoption events for cats and rabbits, we launched our first-ever, feewaived adoption event for companion horses in November and found outstanding retirement homes for five of our companion horses. Stella was one of these adoptions. After a successful racing career up and down the East Coast, Stella sustained an injury that prevented her from being ridden. After suffering neglect and near starvation, a series of events landed her at Nevins Farm. Though she was a staff and volunteer favorite, an easy keeper, and good friend to other horses, her retirement home proved elusive for nearly five years. That is, until her adopter heard about her through our event. The two met during our open house and determined that it was meant to be. Shortly thereafter, Stella changed her address and moved to greener pastures to be a companion to an older gelding named Ike, who was lonely after the loss of his longtime companion. Ike and Stella were friends from the moment she arrived and now happily spend their days in good company. With many horses just like Stella finding respite and safety at Nevins Farm every year, we are eager to continue to promote the adoption of horses who have done so much for us and now just need a place to relax and call home with similar fee waived events. One hundred years ago this year, Harriet Nevins gifted her rest home for

horses to the MSPCA. It’s fitting that as we celebrate this milestone, we celebrate and honor the horses that started it all by helping the most vulnerable and neediest horses into loving, final homes.

n Julia Pesek

Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation Receives Top Honors

Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation (MFBF) has been recognized as one of the top award winners across the United States for its overall achievements in 2016 with 10 national awards, including the New Horizon Award and the Pinnacle Award, during the January American Farm Bureau Federation’s Annual Meeting in Phoenix. MFBF won the New Horizon Award for the creation and implementation of model livestock regulations for local boards of health. This program has been well received by boards across the state and one town has dropped proposed regulations in favor of this model. The award is presented to states with the most innovative new program. The Pinnacle Award is the highest award a state can earn for program and membership achievement. This is the seventh time in eight years that MFBF has received this honor. The goals of the awards program are to recognize and motivate states for developing outstanding programs, encourage their efforts in key areas, and provide a resource to other states for the purpose of developing new initiatives. “Our state has done an outstanding job at going above and beyond to

develop programs and activities that benefit the Farm Bureau,” says Ed Davidian, MFBF president and farmer in Northborough. “We’ve a dedicated team of staff and volunteers whose efforts have been recognized for the value that they bring to the organization and its members.” MFBF is a non-profit organization representing nearly 6,000 family members across the Commonwealth. MFBF is an advocate for farmers, run by farmer members who develop policies through its grassroots process. Its mission is “to protect the rights, encourage the growth, and be of service to its members, in the best interest of agriculture.” To learn more, visit mfbf.net.

Overherdisms

• “Organizing riders is like trying to herd cats.” • “It’s so quiet here I can hear a horse poot.” • “My child and my money go to the barn.” • “Saying you ride like John Wayne is not a compliment.”

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Bay State Happenings

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February/March 2017

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Becca Levit and Sebastian

Siena Gamberoni and Make a Wish

Western New England Professional Horsemenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Associationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Hunter/Equitation Shows

Kiley Subklew and By Starlight

Feb. 12 March 5 March 12 April 30 May 14 May 21 May 28 June 4

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Anya Benson and Keep on Dreaming

RBF at Berkshire Equestrian Center Blythewood Stables White Horse Hill Bellwether Stables White Horse Hill Blythewood Stables Overmeade Farm Harmony Hill Farm

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Dressage Shows

English and western dressage classes.

Feb. 12 March 26 April 22 April 23 April 30 May 21 June 4

Mount Holyoke College Higher Ground Farm Heritage Farm Mount Holyoke College Higher Ground Farm Stockade Polo Club Emerald Glen

Feb. 4 Awards Banquet Crowne Plaza Hotel, Pittsfield

Leah Petricca and Go Lightly Featuring year-end awards in many divisions.

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Full schedule can be found at:

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Partners Our goal is to foster connections within the horse community throughout the Bay State, and one of the ways we do this is with our Partners Program. Massachusetts organizations that partner with us receive a free one-year subscription for each member; space in the magazine for news, events, and photos; and a link from mahorse.com to its website. Interested? Email partners@mahorse.com.

location for the June National Trail Day Benefit Ride. The ideal venue should have good trails, plenty of parking, and be centrally located. Contact lynnparesky @aol.com with your suggestions. Please consider renewing your membership, or joining BSTRA, if you aren’t a member. Since 1989, BSTRA

Methuen, will lead firefighters and first responders in equine emergency rescue and transport. Firefighters and first responders will learn safe horse haltering and handling techniques, how to evacuate horses in an emergency situation, and how to transport downed horses with the rescue glide. Horse and barn ownBay State Trail Riders ers will participate in a variety of hands-on segAssociation ments hosted by a fire marAs spring approaches, the shal, a building inspector, days get longer and it’s and veterinarian, and will finally time to dust off tack learn how to prevent barn and get the trails ready for fires, prepare for an emerriding. What goes great with gency, and administer first spring cleaning? A tack sale! aid to horses. On March 25, BSTRA is Participants will also hosting one at the VFW in observe how horses respond Uxbridge, from 8:30 a.m. and react to firefighters in to 1:30 p.m. What a great full emergency gear. way to clear out items The number of particifrom your tack room and pants is limited, so preregto find a few more needed istration is required. The things. Indoor or outdoor workshop, including tables are available for $20 lunch, starts at 8 a.m. The to BSTRA members, and cost is $65 for firefighters, $25 for nonmembers. first responders, veterinariTrailer spots are $40. To ans, and vet techs, and $35 learn more or register, Myopia Hunt Club member Patrick J. Keough, III passed away in September. for horse and barn owners visit bstra.org. has put more than $460,000 into and 4-H and Pony Club members. Save March 26 for BSTRA’s first enhancing and protecting trails in 33 A silent auction of donated items ride of the season — the March towns and forests. BSTRA events are will be held to raise funds for the purMadness Ride at Douglas State Forest. family-centric and a good way to meet chase of a rescue glide to be located at a Last year’s ride was a blast. We hope to like-minded people. To learn more, visit local fire department. HCRC is looking see you there. for sponsors and donors for the event. Preserving and maintaining trails is BSTRA.org. See you on the trails! For additional information, contact Jo a key part of BSTRA’s mission. Three 7 Annamaria Paul Bunny at jobunny@comcast.net or trail work days are scheduled this (413) 320 7690. spring: April 22, April 23, and April 29. In June we will host a Western Hampshire County Riding Club Work days play an important part in HCRC has some new events planned for Dressage and Obstacle Training Clinic keeping trails open and accessible. Volunteering is a fun way to give back to this year, in addition to our usual sched- at the club grounds in Goshen. The three-phase clinic will be held Friday to ule of trail rides. the trails we all use and love. BSTRA’s Sunday, June 9 to 11, featuring popular On Saturday, May 20, we will host a volunteer program is unique — memlocal clinicians Cathy Drumm for westBarn Fire Prevention and EMT bers get points for volunteer hours, ern dressage, and Heidi Potter for Preparedness Workshop at Carrier’s which can go toward your membership obstacle training and Centered Riding. Farm in Southampton. This daylong, fee, Annual General Meeting ticket, The clinic will be Friday and Saturday, hands-on workshop is designed for ride pass, BSTRA clothing, or be followed on Sunday with a judged twohorse owners, barn owners, 4-H and donated back to BSTRA. phase competition featuring riding a Pony Club members, veterinarians, vet On March 31, the winner for the dressage test and completion of an techs, firefighters, and first responders. Tourbillon Trailer Sales raffle will be The focus of the workshop is what to do obstacle course. For more information drawn. The prize is a trailer service in the event of a barn or stable fire, and contact Lise at lisekrieger@comcast.net package worth $295. Tickets are $5 for or (203) 685 2308. five, $10 for 12, and $25 for 35; they are how to safely and quickly move horses To learn more, visit hampshire during an emergency event. on sale at BSTRA.org. Ticket purchases countyridingclub.org and follow us on Roger Lauze, the equine rescue and must be received by March 30. A special Facebook. training coordinator for Massachusetts thank you goes to our generous spon7 Diane Merritt Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to sor, Tourbillon Trailer Sales. BSTRA is looking for ideas for a new Animals (MSPCA) at Nevins Farm in 34

February/March 2017

Myopia Hunt Club

The Myopia Hunt Club lost a beloved member on September 21, 2016, with the death of Patrick J. Keough, III. Patrick was a steadying and guiding force for many generations of Myopia Hunt Club riders, myself included. He was a consummate horseman and always ready with a succinct and accurate assessment of any situation a rider might find themselves in, and clear and calm direction how to resolve it. Patrick

sense of style and an unusual take on the concept of time. Patrick was a superb storyteller and loved to take people trail riding while regaling them with the history and background of the land and the events that had happened there over the years. On October 23, 2016, Myopia Hunt held its Fall Hunter Trials in honor of Patrick. The annual Fall Hunter Pace on November 6, 2016, was also in honor of Patrick. 7 Lisa Wohlleib

MSPCA

New England Equestrian Center of Athol

It’s hard to envision spring right now, but it isn’t too far away, and the calendar on neeca.org has been updated with some exciting clinics and events. Two events of note in March are our annual general meeting on March 15, and the March 25 vaccination clinic. And, here’s a heads up for the April 23 Gymkhana, first in the series. The annual meeting is our wish-it-was-really-spring opportunity to gather our Join the Hampshire County Riding Club for its Barn Fire Prevention membership and friends and EMT Preparedness Workshop on May 20. Roger Lauze, the interested in NEECA for a equine rescue and training coordinator for the MSPCA, will lead preview of the upcoming firefighters and first responders in equine emergency rescue and year’s activities and an edutransport. cational presentation on a always spoke with humor and fundatopic related to horse ownership. We’re mental kindness. He will be missed. working on the topic of the presentaPatrick passed away suddenly of an tion now and will be posting it on apparent heart attack while doing what Facebook and neeca.org as soon as it’s he loved — riding in the country. firm. Everyone is welcome, so come Patrick comes from a distinguished and share your ideas for NEECA events, and longstanding family of equestrians. His learn more about our organization and grandfather founded Miles River the beautiful Equestrian Park. We hope Stables, which was later run by his parto see a roomful of NEECA members ents, Patrick and Barbara Keough, and and any other interested folks at 6:30 then moved to the Myopia Hunt Club p.m. on March 15 in the Environmental in 1963. Patrick succeeded the family Center (old school building) at 100 business at Myopia until he established Main Street in Athol. P. J. Keough Stables, where he taught Every year, NEECA brings equine adults and juniors riding and hunting, veterinarian Bob Schmitt to a central shared his love of the countryside, paslocation in Orange, to pull blood for sion for horses, and horsemanship, as Coggins tests and do vaccinations at a well as the rich history, both horse and reduced price for NEECA members. This human, of fox hunting, polo, year the event will take place on March showjumping, and racing. 25. Information and scheduling is manPatrick was devoted to the horse aged by Pam DeGregorio, and preregiscommunity and gave generously of his tration is required. You can reach her at time and expertise. He was known for pamdeg2002@yahoo.com with questions. his entertaining hacks, knowing and This event is just one of the many ready smile, quick wit, and pithy maxbenefits you get as a NEECA member, ims. A gentleman, he had a unique

Dressage Schooling Show Series May 31 . June 25 July 30 . September 10 October 8

Dressage Clinics Bill McMullin Sharon McCusker Bill Warren Verne Batchelder

Like us on Facebook to see who’s coming!

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so check neeca.org for membership information; come to the general meeting on March 15; and join us on the trail and in the ring this year; weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re all looking forward to warmer weather! 7 Laurie Neely

West Newbury Riding and Driving Club

The winter educational series hosted annually by WNRDC will kick off with a presentation on equine obesity issues, presented by Dr. Derek Cavatorta of SRH Veterinary Services and Jacqueline Gagnon of Nutrena Feeds. The presentation will cover much more than the standard weight scoring and topline conformation. WNRDC is also planning a Yoga for Equestrians presentation. Yoga techniques can help riders build a sup-

February/March 2017

ple, strong, and independent seat. In March, WNRDC will host its annual potluck for members only. To learn dates, times, and locations, visit wnrdc.com or follow us on Facebook. At wrndc.com, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll also find the invaluable resource called the Local Equine Activities Calendar. This handy online event list is assembled by volunteers every year and published early to help members and equestrians at large plan a full season of events. WNRDC is currently recruiting individuals to volunteer for cross-country course maintenance and design. If you like to roll up your sleeves or if you enjoy planning jumping courses, contact Claude Maina via pipestavehillhorsetrails@ gmail.com. 7 Liz Russell

Northfield

This Olde Horse

Have a photo for This Olde Horse? Email editor@mahorse.com.

Photograph by E. D. Putnam, Antrim, New Hampshire.

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Dressage Schooling Shows Including Western Dressage Tests! March 26 - Kathy Hitzig “L” April 23 - Karen Roberts “L” August 13 - Rachel Markel Webber “L” September 17 - Sue Edelen “L”

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events

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White Spruce Farms

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February 3 –5 ECTRA WINTER GETAWAY AND ANNUAL MEETING, Boxboro Regency, Boxborough. ectra.org. 3 – 5 EQUESTRIAN TALENT SEARCH, Mount Holyoke College Equestrian Center, South Hadley. mhcriding.com. 5 RANCH SORTING, Sandy Hollow Stable, Rehoboth. sanski2193@aol.com. 4 MHC/NEHC HUNT SEAT SHOW, Saddle Rowe, Medway. saddlerowe.com. 4 WNEPHA AWARDS BANQUET, Crowne Plaza Hotel, Pittsfield. wnepha.com. 4 CCEA ANNUAL AWARDS BANQUET, Yarmouth Moose Lodge, South Yarmouth. ccequineassoc.com.

Got Manure? MANURE REMOVAL FOR LARGE & SMALL FARMS

8 VIEW FROM UNDER THE HORSE: A FARRIER’S PERSPECTIVE, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University, North Grafton. ce.vet.tufts.edu. 11 WINTER INDOOR JUMPER SHOW, Stoneleigh-Burnham School, Greenfield. sbschool.org. 11 NEW ENGLAND HORSEMEN’S COUNCIL AWARDS BANQUET, Regency Ballroom, Milford. nehc.info. 11 JASON DRASS DESPOOKING CLINIC, Clover Creek Farm, Rochester. jeni.olivier@yahoo.com.

4 – 5 ELISA WALLACE CLINIC, Hillside Meadows Equestrian Center, Grafton. hillside-meadows.com.

11 NORTHEAST SNOW POLO CHAMPIONSHIP, Boston Polo Club, Georgetown. bostonpolo.org.

5 RANCH SORTING, Sandy Hollow Stable, Rehoboth. sanski2193@aol.com.

12 FOR THE LOVE OF HORSES SLEIGH RALLY, Blue Star Equiculture Draft Horse Sanctuary, Palmer. equiculture.org.

5 BSTRA ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING AND AWARDS BANQUET, Alicante Mediterranean Grille, Mendon. bstra.org.

12 WNEPHA RIVERBANK HUNTER SHOW, Berkshire Equestrian, Richmond. wnepha.com.

6 HORSE OWNER EDUCATION SERIES: Advances in Equine Dentistry, South Shore Equine Clinic, Plympton. ssequineclinic.com.

12 WNEPHA DRESSAGE SHOW, Mount Holyoke College Equestrian Center, South Hadley. mhcriding.com.

Master Class Clinic with Linda Parelli Three days: June 23 - 25, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. • Cheshire Fairgrounds, Swanzey, New Hampshire

Roll-off containers 10 to 30 yards on call or scheduled service. Full stock pile removals. Walter Zettl & Linda Parelli

978-425-6181 MitranoRemoval.com Proud sponsor of Bear Spot Musical Freestyle and Oakrise Farm Shows.

February/March 2017

Linda & Pat Parelli

Must pre-purchase tickets.

LindaParelliMasterClassNH.com

18 IHSA WESTERN SHOW, Mount Holyoke College, South Hadley. mhcriding.com. 18 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 19 SMARTPAK PRESIDENTS DAY SALE, Natick Retail Store. smartpak.com/RetailStore.

25 SPAGHETTI DINNER FUND RAISER AND SILENT AUCTION, to benefit the 4-H Regional Horse Show, Most Holy Redeemer Church, Hadley. (413) 977-2304. 25 TACK SALE, Independence Stable, Belchertown. independencestablellc.com.

19 RANCH SORTING, Sandy Hollow Stable, Rehoboth. sanski2193@aol.com.

26 OLD STURBRIDGE VILLAGE SLEIGH RALLY, Sturbridge. osv.org/event/sleigh-rally.

19 MHC/NEHC HUNT SEAT SHOW, Saddle Rowe, Medway. saddlerowe.com.

March

19 OPEN SCHOOLING SHOW, Grafton. hillside-meadows.com.

4 IEA HUNT SEAT REGIONAL SEMI FINALS, Dana Hall School, Wellesley. rideiea.org.

19 WHITE SPRUCE FARMS SCHOOLING DRESSAGE SHOW SERIES BANQUET, Ye Olde Tavern, West Brookfield. (978) 257-4666. 20 HORSE OWNER EDUATION SERIES: Feeding the Performance Horse, South Shore Equine Clinic, Plympton. ssequineclinic.com.

4 IHSA HUNT SEAT SHOW, Mount Holyoke College Equestrian Center, South Hadley. ihsainc.com. 5 WNEPHA HUNTER SHOW, Blythewood Stables, Pittsfield. wnepha.com.

22 SCHOOL VACATION HUNTER EQUITATION SHOW, Mount Holyoke College, South Hadley. mhcriding.com.

6 HORSE OWNER EDUCATION SERIES: Lyme Disease, South Shore Equine Clinic, Plympton. ssequineclinic.com.

23 MAKING THE MOST OUT OF PASTURE AND HAY FIELDS, Westborough. asoud@umass.edu.

11 MHC/NEHC HUNT SEAT SHOW, Saddle Rowe, Medway. saddlerowe.com.

25 IEA HUNT SEAT REGIONAL SEMI FINALS, Mount Holyoke College Equestrian Center, South Hadley. rideiea.org.

11 IDA SHOW, Mount Holyoke College Equestrian Center, South Hadley. mhcriding.com.

. . . continued on page 41

25 Forest Lane, Millis, MA ~ (508) 376-2564

Foxhunting Vacation Week Camp

February 20 - 23 (617) 834-0039 or gillequestrian@gmail.com

Jumper Shows

June 14 . June 21 . June 28 . July 12 July 19 . July 26 . Aug. 2 . Aug. 9 Aug. 16 . Aug. 23 . Aug. 30 . Sept 6

Hunter Paces

June 11 - Poker Run Hunter Pace October 22 - Halloween Hunter Pace

Schooling Horse Trials Championships August 20

FOXHUNTING

Presents the 22nd

Equine Expo Paraphernalia Sale Saturday, April 29, 2017 . 9-3 Large marketplace of new and used items! Plus services for the horse, rider, and driver. Demonstrations All Day . $5 Admission Held in the Arena Building at the Topsfield Fairgrounds, Route 1, Topsfield Vendor Spaces Available . Free Parking

Contact Kay at: 978-768-6275 or kljoreo@aol.com

Facility Rental for Shows & Clinics

Multiple Dressage Rings . Large Indoor Arena Several Jumping Arenas Full Cross-County Course through Training Level

Horses and Ponies For Sale/Lease Training with Adrienne Iorio Three-Day Eventing Competitor and Trainer

VACATION CAMP!

FEB. 20-23

Prize lists and entry forms at:

appleknoll.com. Check the website often as new events are added!

The facilities at Apple Knoll Farm are available for rental for horse shows, clinics, and other equine activities. Our cross-country course is open for schooling by appointment, weather permitting.

Massachusetts Horse

the

neighborhood

ASSOCIATIONS •••••••••••••••••••••••••• BAY STATE TRAIL RIDERS ASSOCIATION bstra.org Keeping trails open for equestrian use; organized trail rides; volunteer opportunities for trail clearing and maintenance. HAMPSHIRE COUNTY RIDING CLUB Goshen, MA, (413) 268-3372 hampshirecounty ridingclub.org Monthly trail rides, woodland obstacle course, scavenger hunt, and clinics. BARN CATS •••••••••••••••••••••••••• PAWS WATCH Newport, RI, (401) 848-9867 pawswatch.org Barn cats need homes! Healthy, fixed, vaccinated barn cats provide rodent control. Delivered!

Your Everything Equine “white pages”

EQUINE ENTERTAINMENT •••••••••••••••••••••••••• DALE PERKINS/MESA FARM Rutland, MA, (508) 886-6898 daleperkinshorseshow.com Trick riding and much more. EQUINE MASSAGE •••••••••••••••••••••••••• EQUISSAGE NE/NY MA, CT, RI, (860) 564-7759 equisportmt@sbcglobal.net Integrated body work for performance horses: reiki, Masterson Method, sports and therapeutic massage, myofascial release, cranio-sacral therapy, infrared photon therapy. HORSEBACK AND BODY Northampton, MA, (413) 320-7690 jobunny@comcast.net Massage therapy for horses, humans.

DRESSAGE •••••••••••••••••••••••••• BRADFORD EQUESTRIAN CENTER Haverhill, MA, (978) 374-0008 Dressage for all disciplines and driving. Keith Angstadt, USEF dressage judge.

HAFLINGERS •••••••••••••••••••••••••• SOMMER HILL FARM Adams, MA, (413) 743-9301 sommerhaflingers@yahoo.com One Haflinger is never enough.

CATHY DRUMM Pittsfield, MA, (413) 441-5278 cathydrumm.com Clinics, lessons, training, western and English dressage, hunter/jumper.

HORSES FOR SALE •••••••••••••••••••••••••• HERITAGE FARM Easthampton, MA, (413) 527-1612 farmheritage.com Auctions, sale horses, shows, clinics, boarding, lessons, and training.

FAIRFIELD FARM Rochester, MA, (508) 763-8038 dressageatfairfieldfarm.com Boarding, instruction, training, indoor. MEG HILLY South Deerfield, MA, (802) 595-1258 mhilly@mtholyoke.edu USDF “L” judge; FEI rider; private, semiprivate lessons; clinics. NANCY LATER LAVOIE Ashby, MA, (561) 714-7447 nancylaterdressagehorses.com Training, lessons, clinics. Accepting new students of all levels. Top-class facility. WHITE SPRUCE FARMS New Braintree, MA, (978) 257-4666 whitesprucefarms.com Dressage shows, instruction, all levels/ages. EQUINE DENTISTRY •••••••••••••••••••••••••• WENDY BRYANT, EQDT Northampton, MA, (413) 237-8887 ravenhillequine.com Natural balance equine dentistry. Improved topline, maximized performance, increased flexion. Serving New England/New York. NORTHEAST EQUINE VETERINARY DENTAL SERVICES LEAH LIMONE, DVM Topsfield, MA, (978) 500-9293 nevds.com Licensed professional veterinary dentistry. Routine preventive care, maintenance, diagnostics, extractions.

February/March 2017

STRAIN FAMILY HORSE FARM Granby, CT, (860) 653-3275 strainfamilyhorsefarm.com New England’s largest quality sales stable. Supplying NE with horses and ponies since 1967. Forty family, trail, and show horses to choose from. New loads every week. We buy horses, take trade-ins and consignment horses. Great threeweek-exchange guarantee. Find us on Facebook. INSTRUCTION/TRAINING •••••••••••••••••••••••••• BACK BAY FARM Ipswich, MA, (978) 356-0730 backbayfarm.com Lessons, boarding, training, and sales. INSURANCE •••••••••••••••••••••••••• CORINTHIAN INSURANCE AGENCY Medway, MA, (877) 250-5103 corinthianequine.com Equine protection specialists. DON RAY INSURANCE Marshfield, MA, (781) 837-6550 donrayinsurance.com Farm, mortality, major medical and surgical, clubs, shows, instructors. FARM FAMILY INSURANCE farmfamily.com Carver: (508) 866-9150 Easthampton: (413) 203-5180 Great Barrington: (413) 528-1710 Marlborough: (508) 485-3800 Middleborough: (508) 747-8181

Northborough: (508) 393-9327 Norwood: (781) 255-2002 South Deerfield: (413) 665-8200 Southwick: (413) 569-2307 Topsfield: (978) 887-8304 Westford: (978) 467-1001 Williamstown: (413) 458-5584 Worcester: (508) 752-3300 JUDGES •••••••••••••••••••••••••• MARY BRAZIE Egremont, MA, (413) 528-2367 arabpinto13@yahoo.com Judging open, 4-H, carded. ED GOLEMBESKI Gill, MA, (413) 863-2313 riker119@comcast.net 4-H, open shows, clinics, lessons. NORWEGIAN FJORDS •••••••••••••••••••••••••• BLUE HERON FARM Charlemont, MA, (413) 339-4045 blueheronfarm.com Quality, purebred registered Fjords. PHOTOGRAPHY •••••••••••••••••••••••••• KAREN MORANG PHOTOGRAPHY Find us on Facebook. Equine photography and events. PHOTOGRAPHY BY MELISSA N. Dighton, MA, (508) 863-0467 melissaroot.com Equine portrait photography and events. REAL ESTATE •••••••••••••••••••••••••• ALTHEA BRAMHALL HOMETOWN REALTORS North Quabbin region, (617) 678-9300 althearealtor@gmail.com Real estate is more fun with horse people! EQUINE HOMES REAL ESTATE LLC MA and NH, (800) 859-2745, ext. 704 equinehomes.com sally@equinehomes.com Sally Mann, Realtor, MA and NH. BERNICE GIARD REALITY Oakham, MA, (508) 882-3900 oakham@charter.net Country properties. STABLES, FARMS, BOARDING •••••••••••••••••••••••••• CARRIER’S FARM Southampton, MA, (413) 527-0333 rcarrier0333@gmail.com Indoor, outdoor arenas, round pens, fields. GLENCROFT FARM Southampton, MA, (413) 527-8026 kraymond24@hotmail.com Boarding, pastures, ring, trails, fields. STRAIN FAMILY EQUESTRIAN CENTER LLC Southwick, MA, (413) 569-5797 strainfamilyequestrian.com Boarding, lessons, training, sales, therapeutic riding.

TACK •••••••••••••••••••••••••• CHESHIRE HORSE Swanzey, NH, (877) 358-3001 cheshirehorse.com English, western, feed, supplies, trailers. DR. COOK BITLESS BRIDLE (866) 235-0938 bitlessbridle.com Safe, gentle, effective alternative to using a bit. SMARTPAK RETAIL STORE Natick, MA, (508) 651-0045 smartpak.com/retailstore Tack, equipment, supplements, blankets, apparel, gear, gifts, clearance outlet. TRANSPORTATION •••••••••••••••••••••••••• J.R. HUDSON HORSE TRANSPORTATION West Bridgewater, MA, (508) 427-9333 jrhudsonhorsetrans.com Serving the lower 48 states and Canada. NORTHEAST EQUINE TRANSPORTATION Southbridge, MA, (774) 633-1499 nehorsetrans.com Serving Northeast, PA, NY, NJ, DE, MD. VETERINARIANS •••••••••••••••••••••••••• FAMILY VETERINARY CENTER Haydenville, MA, (413) 268-8387 famvets.com Traditional and alternative care for dogs, cats, exotics, and horses. SOUTH DEERFIELD VETERINARY CLINIC DR. ROBERT P. SCHMITT S. Deerfield, MA, (413) 665-3626 sdvc@aol.com Equine medicine, surgery since 1969.

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. . . Events Calendar continued from page 39

11 IHSA WESTERN SEMI FINALS, Mount Holyoke College Equestrian Center, South Hadley. mhcriding.com. 12 EQUITATION SHOW, Herring Brook Farm, Pembroke. herringbrookfarmma.com. 12 IEA WESTERN SHOW, It’s a Pleasure Training Facility, Orange. rideiea.org. 12 WNEPHA HUNTER SHOW, White Horse Hill, Richmond. wnepha.com. 19 MHC HUNT SEAT SHOW, Evenstride Farm, Byfield. evenstrideltd.com. 19 IEA WESTERN SHOW, Briggs Stable, Hanover. rideiea.org.

April

8 COWBOY MOUNTED SHOOTING CLINIC, Felton Field, Barre. www.masixshooters.com.

1 IHSA HUNT SEAT REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP, Biscuit Hill Farm, Shelburne. ihsainc.com.

9 MHC HUNT SEAT SHOW, Century Mill Stables, Bolton. centurymillstables.com.

1 CAPE COD HUNTER SHOW, Medway. capecodhunter.com.

15 MHC/NEHC HUNT SEAT SHOW, Saddle Rowe, Medway. saddlerowe.com.

1 – 2 IEA HUNT SEAT ZONE 1 FINALS, Eastern States Exposition, West Springfield. rideiea.org.

16 MHC HUNT SEAT SHOW, Evenstride Farm, Byfield. evenstrideltd.com.

1 CAPE COD HUNTER SHOW, Medway. hollyhill7@aol.com. 2 CROWLEYS TACK AND HORSE AUCTION, Agawam. crowleyshorses.com. 2 RANCH SORTING, Sandy Hollow Stable, Rehoboth. sanski2193@aol.com.

25 IHSA HUNT SEAT SHOW, UMass Hadley Farm. ihsainc.com.

8 WINTER INDOOR JUMPER CHAMPIONSHIP SHOW, Stoneleigh-Burnham School, Greenfield. sbschool.org.

25 IDA SHOW, Mount Holyoke College Equestrian Center, South Hadley. mhcriding.com.

8 CNEER BENEFIT PASTA DINNER, Springfield. centralnewenglandequinerescue.com.

25 VACCINE CLINIC, South Shore Equine Clinic, Plympton. ssequineclinic.com. 25 BSTRA TACK SALE, Uxbridge. bstra.org. 25 CAPE COD HUNTER SHOW, Medway. capecodhunter.com. 26 BSTRA MARCH MADNESS RIDE, Douglas. bstra.org. 26 MHC HUNT SEAT SHOW, Stargazer Hill Farm, Plainville. stargazerhillfarm.com. 26 DRESSAGE SCHOOLING SHOW, Belchertown. independencestablellc.com.

Spaghetti Dinner to benefit the 4-H Regional Horse Show

February 25, Saturday

Arrive 6 p.m., dinner 6:30 to 8 p.m., DJ till 11 p.m.

Honor a junior at your upcoming event with a free Massachusetts Horse Junior Horsemanship Award. To learn more, visit mahorse.com/Junior_Award.html.

8 VACCINE CLINIC, South Shore Equine Clinic, Plympton. ssequineclinic.com.

Supporting our horse community since 2001.

8 IHSA ZONE 1 HUNT SEAT FINALS, Mount Holyoke College Equestrian Center, South Hadley. ihsainc.com.

Donating more than 2,000 Massachusetts Horse Junior Horsemanship Awards to Bay State competitions.

Raising more than $60,500 for horse-related nonprofit groups through the Massachusetts Horse Benefit. Providing free subscriptions to the members of 32 organizations and clubs. In our 16th year of news, photos, and event coverage.

Most Holy Redeemer Church 120 Russell St. (Route 9), Hadley, Mass., (parking behind church)

Spaghetti, tossed salad, roll, beverage, and dessert. Silent Auction, 50/50 Raffe, DJ & Dancing Adults $10, Kids ages 4 to 10 $5, 3 and under eat free

Purchase tickets in advance by February 11!

Make checks payable to 4-H Regional Horse Show, and mail to: Krissy Przybyla, 14 Maple St., Chester, MA 01011

Questions? Call Krissy at (413) 977-2304 Massachusetts Horse

Is This Your Horse?

Eight pastoral acres in Wayland, Mass., located less than 20 miles from downtown Boston. Drive through the impressive gates and wind up the driveway through this breathtaking compound which includes a beautiful four-bedroom Colonial-style main home with details such as wide pine floors, four fireplaces, exposed beams, open gourmet kitchen/family room, and breathtaking pastoral and pond views.

Alessandra Mele

Gentlemen’s Farm in Wayland

Is this your horse? This photo was taken at Greenfield’s Stoneleigh-Burnham School’s Tri-color Jumper Show during December. If this is your horse, contact us at win@mahorse.com for a month’s supply of SmartPaks and more from the Bay State’s very own SmartPak, smartpakequine.com. The property boasts a New England scene — traditional six-stall horse barn, paddocks, heated pool, stone gazebo/pool house, and separate guest house/home office set among meadows and a pond. Stonework and elaborate landscaping complete the picture perfect setting for this sophisticated country estate — perfect for an equestrian property or a special country retreat.

Unique opportunity to call this gentleman’s farm home, – and yours! Call for a private showing before this unique property hits the market this spring! $3,499,000.

Laura Meier Broker/Owner, GRI, CRS Residential/Commercial Real Estate mobile: (508) 208-5215 . office: (978) 443-1790

BlackHorseRealEstate.net 42

February/March 2017

advertiser index A & B Insurance Group ................... 13

Hampshire Tractor Corp. ............... 37

A & B Lumber Barns ........................ 21

Heritage Farm ................................ 29

Apple Knoll Farm ........................... 39

Horse ’n Hound Physical Therapy .. 23

Bacon’s Equipment ........................ 29

HorseBack and Body ..................... 37

Barnstable Farm and Pet ............... 23

Independence Stable .................... 37

Black Horse Real Estate ................ 42

It’s a Pleasure Training .................. 37

Betsy Merritt ................................... 5

Jenn’s Tack & Blanket Service ........ 6

Blue Dog Leather ........................... 12

Linda Parelli Master Class ............. 38

Blue Seal Feed .............................. 44

Mindful Connections ..................... 32

Bob Burrelli ................................... 38

Mitrano Removal Service .............. 38

Bolton Equestrian Property ........... 30

Mountain Top Inn & Resort ....... 24

Camp Marshall Equestrian Center . 36

Natural Balance Equine Dentistry . 19

The Carriage Shed ........................... 2

One K Helmets ............................... 12

Charles Owen ................................. 14

RER Ponies .................................... 31

The Cheshire Horse ........................ 7

Salty Dawg Equine Services .......... 30

Country Corral ............................... 17

SmartPak Retail Store ................... 36

Crimson Acres ............................... 37

South Shore CFO ........................... 32

Equine Homes Real Estate ............ 43

Spaghetti Dinner Benefit ................ 41

Essex County Trail Association ..... 39

SRH Veterinary Services ................ 31

DK Saddlery ................................. 23

Trailer for Sale ............................... 32

Don Ray Insurance Agency ............. 6

Triple Crown Feed ........................... 11

Fairview Farms JJC ........................ 31

WNEPHA ........................................ 33

Family Veterinary Center ............... 17

White Spruce Farms ....................... 38

Farm Credit East ............................. 13

Xenophon Farm ............................. 35

Farm Family Insurance .................... 4

Yered Trailers ................................ 27

Massachusetts Horse

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID MONROE, CT PERMIT

Amherst Farmer’s Supply 320 Pleasant St., Amherst (413) 253-3436 amherstfarmerssupply.com A.W. Brown Pet & Garden Center 144 Shaker Rd., E. Longmeadow (413) 525-2115 . awbrown.com Bernardston Farmer’s Supply 43 River St., Bernardston (413) 648-9311 bernardstonfarmerssupply.com

Brattleboro Agway 1277 Putney Rd., Brattleboro, VT (802) 254-8757 . achilleagway.com Bridgewater Farm Supply 1000 Plymouth St., Bridgewater (508) 697-0357 bridgewaterfarm.com Country Corral 35 Main St., Williamsburg (413) 268-0180 . countrycorralonline.com

Dodge Grain Company 59 N. Broadway, Salem, NH (603) 893-3739 . dodgegrain.biz Erikson’s Grain Mill 113 Main St., Acton . (978) 263-4733 Essex County Co-op 146 S. Main St., Topsfield (978) 887-2309 essexcountycoop.net Hardwick Farmers Co-op Exchange Rte. 32, Gilbertville . (413) 477-6913 hardwickfarmers.net

#140

Hoosac Valley Coal and Grain 2 Gavin Ave., Adams (413)743-0163 hoosacvalleycoalandgrain.com Sweet Meadow Feed & Grain 111 Coolidge St., Sherborn (508) 650-2926 sweetmeadowfeedandgrain.com Thibault’s Poultry 92 N. Spencer Rd. Spencer (508) 612-1907