Massachusetts Horse April/May 2015 by Community Horse Media

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

HORSE ASK THE JUDGE

HOW TO IMPROVE YOUR RIDE page 8

VOLO FARM

UNDERSTANDING AND APPRECIATION OF THE EQUINE PARTNER page 14

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April/May 2015

contents

April/May 2015

columns 22 Introducing a New Dog to the Barn

courtesy of Tomten Farm and Sanctuary

Alessandra Mele

Barn Dog Diaries

25 Freetownâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Fall River State Forest Fall River Trail Guide

26 Tips for Trailer Preparation Horse Sense

35 Bay State Events

Fran Taylor

ÂŠ 2014 Shawn McMillen

Calendar

features 8

Ask the Judge

in every issue 16

How to Improve Your Ride

14 Volo Farm Understanding and Appreciation of the Equine Partner Farm Spotlight

Tomten Farm and Sanctuary

5 From the Editor

A Menagerie of Rescues

24 This Olde Horse

Lend a Hoof

28 Overherd: News in Our Community

7 Your Letters

31 Partners

Heather, Grumps, and Gulli Stable Devotion

53 The Neighborhood 55 Advertiser Index 55 Is This Your Horse? 56 Massachusetts Marketplace

Massachusetts Horse

from the editor

pring is here, and it’s time to start having fun with our horses again! If you keep yours at home, as I do, you know that in the cold, snowy, short days of winter, often it’s all about just getting horses fed and barns mucked, and keeping unfrozen water available. It seems there’s little time for the really good stuff — riding, training, grooming, playing. Now, on these warmer days, it’s so good to put gloveless hands on my horses. I hope you, too, are finding the feel of your horse’s shedding coat a joyful experience.

Haflinger mare Cat and Miniatures Peanut and Little Rasta Man enjoying breakfast in the March sun at Pocketful of Ponies Farm.

In this issue we launch two columns: Stable Devotion and Barn Dog Diaries. Each Stable Devotion will tell us about a special horse-andhuman partnership. Those we feature will be folks just like you, people who have a beautiful relationship with their equine. Know someone our readers would enjoy getting to know? Email me at steph@mahorse.com. Barn Dog Diaries will discuss topics for those of us horse people who have beloved canines. Every column will focus on pooch-worthy news, tips, and products. This is our annual events issue. In it you’ll discover, or rediscover, a vast array of things to do in the Bay State; the expanded calendar begins on page 35. Happy spring!

Stephanie

Subscribe Today! at mahorse.com

Massachusetts Horse

M ASSAC HUS ETTS

HORSE vol. 13, no. 6 April/May 2015

ISSN 1945-1393

99 Bissell Road, Williamsburg, MA 01096 phone: (413) 268-3302 • fax: (413) 268-0050 • mahorse.com Massachusetts Horse magazine is an independently owned and -operated all-breed, all-discipline equestrian publication for the Bay State. © 2015 Massachusetts Horse All rights reserved, including the right to reproduce this magazine or portions thereof in any form without prior written permission.

publisher/editor Stephanie Sanders • steph@mahorse.com • (413) 268-3302 copy editor Doris Troy feature writers Christina Andersen, Karena Garrity, Patricia Lalli, Alessandra Mele Lindsey K. Mulvany, Jessica Paquette, Stacey Stearns contributors Kim Cutler, Susan Goldfischer, Denise Kellicker, Kay Konove, Ted Mehm Diane Merritt, Emily Messing, Jennifer Moreau, Laurie Neely, Nicholas White county desk liaisons Berkshire, Franklin, Hampden, and Hampshire Counties Alessandra Mele • (413) 949-1972 • alessandra@mahorse.com Bristol County Melissa Root • (508) 863-0467 • melissa@mahorse.com Essex County Holly Jacobson • (978) 356-5842 • holly@mahorse.com Sophiea Bitel • (781) 286-0729 • sophiea@mahorse.com Norfolk and Plymouth Counties Laura Solod • (617) 699-7299 • laura@mahorse.com Barnstable, Middlesex, and Worcester Counties Stephanie Sanders • (413) 268-3302 • steph@mahorse.com

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April/May 2015

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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.

your letters To the editor:

To the editor:

I love your magazine and appreciate the diversity of the

It’s wonderful that Massachusetts Horse gets out there to the

articles, the events coverage, and your commentaries. I also

people in the community. It’s nice to flip through and see

applaud you and your writers for recognizing the range of

friends and get an update on how they’re doing. The trail info

interests of your readers as well as the many, many ways in

you give is great! It’s refreshing because you tell us the avail-

which horses are an important part of so many people’s lives.

able seasons and about parking, info that’s sometimes daunt-

Thank you again.

ing to find elsewhere. My trail partner and I use the Trail

Janice Kilmer, Sunderland

Guides all the time. Love the magazine; keep it coming! Cait Beachell, Ware

To the editor: Massachusetts Horse is the only magazine with a focus on people,

To the editor:

places, and horses in the Bay State, and I love that you write

Many thanks for all you do to keep the Massachusetts horse

about many breeds and disciplines. Also, you’re responsive to

community connected and active.

reporting on an event when a club makes a request, with cover-

Susan Goldfischer, Hudson

age in print and online. (Much appreciated!) I look forward to reading the magazine from cover to cover. Joanne Cotter, Groton

To the editor: Massachusetts Horse is one of my favorite magazines. I love reading about different breeds and activities. Kellie Dubuc, Taunton

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

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Dealer

Dealer Massachusetts Horse

Ask the Judge

Susan Froehlich

How to Improve Your Ride

by Alessandra Mele

t’s a tough class. Twenty worthy exhibitors line up their immaculate horses, all sharing in the tense moments just before the judge announces the placings. Riders hold their breath and sit their tallest as they wait for their number to be called. As ribbons are given out and the competitors exhale, the questions start to roll in. “Should I go for the day-end award? We’re so close, but is my horse up for another class?” the first-place rider asks herself. The red-ribbon rider wonders, “That class felt good, but I had the same ride in the Pleasure class, so why did I place last in that one?” Sixth place leaves the ring confused: “This judge must be biased in favor of Quarter Horses. Can he appreciate my Morgan’s unique gait?” And the riders who don’t earn a ribbon are determined to get the answer to one question: “How can I do better in my next class?” A difficult class often leaves riders with many questions, and there’s only one person who can address them competently: the judge. The mystery and authority surrounding show-ring judges, however, may intimidate riders so they don’t ask any questions, and sometimes show rules prohibit any discussion with officials. To start show season on the right foot, six judges provide insight on some 8

April/May 2015

of the most common questions riders ask in order to improve their performances.

Keith Angstadt United State Dressage Federation (USDF) “r” judge, American Driving Society “r” judge Q: I’m new to dressage, and I received a comment on my test that my circles weren’t round. What can I do to improve them? A: You make a circle by turning the horse consistently every stride. Creating a true circle in a dressage ring takes planning and practice. Developing a spatial awareness of the area of the ring you’ll be competing in is very helpful. Whether you’re riding or driving, the general principles for performing true circles are the same. Both small and standard dressage rings are rectangular. Let’s limit our discussion here to the small ring, which is twice as long as it is wide. If you dissect the ring in half lengthwise, from E to B, you’ll have two squares. If you want to make a circle at either end of the ring, you want it to be the biggest circle you can form in one of those squares. Let’s say we want to ride a twentymeter circle in a small dressage arena or a forty-meter circle in a small driving

arena to the left at C. In order to ride a symmetrically round circle, you have to find four focal points. As you approach the start of your circle at C, look to the first focal point, halfway between the corner and the letter E, and leave the track of the ring slightly after C. As you turn the horse a little at each stride, you touch the track slightly before the focal point and leave the track slightly after. You must then keep turning the horse toward the next focal point, which is halfway between E and B (which in this case is X). You touch the letter X and then leave it on your way to the next focal point, which is halfway between B and the corner. Touch the track slightly before this point, then leave the track slightly after it on your way back to C. This is the end of the circle. As you approach each focal point, be looking toward the next one in order to help ensure that your circle will be symmetrically round, and be sure not to stay on the track too long at any focal point or the circle will become flat sided. It’s good to stay as consistent as possible. (By using the same concept of focal points, you can make serpentines more symmetrical. Remember to go straight and parallel to the short sides of the ring where the two loops connect across the center line. One of the most common mistakes is not crossing centerline paral-

lel and riding or driving too deep into the corners, especially during the last loop. Each loop of a serpentine should be the same size, and be careful not go too deep into the corners.) Once you’ve planned your circle, ride the horse accurately to the focal points with the correct bend. The horse should be bent evenly from nose to tail in the direction of the turn, to the degree of the size of the circle. We say that the horse should always be straight to the line of travel. In other words, keep straight on straight lines and curved to the same degree on a circle or serpentine. The smaller the circle or the loop of a serpentine, the more bend you’ll need.

Carrie Cranston Massachusetts 4-H, New England 4-H, Open Horse Show Association (OHSA) Q: What are you looking for in equitation as opposed to pleasure? A: Many riders in open and 4-H shows are confused about the judging criteria for these two basic classes. Equitation is judged on the rider. While judging this class, I look at the rider’s position, balance, use of aids, judgment, planning, and effectiveness. The horse’s performance is

a reflection of its rider’s skill. Therefore, an incorrect lead, for example, is assumed to be the fault of the rider. Good equitation takes lots of practice and coaching from a trainer with a skilled eye who can help riders learn good habits and strength. Ring-savvy riders don’t go unnoticed by judges. A competitor who finds his or her own rail space, allows the horse to move well, sets up the horse for transitions, and stays calm and confident throughout the ride is appreciated by judges. Although those qualities won’t replace basics such as balance, leg position, hands, and the effectiveness of aids, they can put you ahead of other, similarly skilled riders. In pleasure classes, however, the horse is being judged. Here I’m looking at a horse’s quality of gait, balance, carriage, frame, way of going, correctness for type, and of course pleasurability. I want to see horses moving freely, correctly, and easily without resistance or fuss. In this class, the rider is seen as a reflection of the horse’s performance. In the case of a rider who, for example, is “checking” the horse’s head with a rein aid every couple of strides, I as the judge must assume that this is because the horse is continually falling out of balance and needs to be supported to stay moving in the desired man-

ner. In this way, a rider can actually sabotage her horse’s performance even though she’s trying to help the horse look better. I’d rather see a horse go steadily and readily three inches ahead of the vertical than see the rider constantly fighting with the horse to bring its nose in, trying to get perfectly on the vertical. Horses that are under constant nagging don’t look pleasurable — gaits are often inconsistent or incorrect and the demeanor is agitated. I caution riders not to take this advice too far, though, as a rider who doesn’t actively ride his horse in pleasure is surely not showing me his horse at its best. A desirable showing is that of a horse and rider who go along correctly and pleasantly without much fuss. Show me the best your horse can do right now; the show ring is a place to display your progress, not to actively train. Asking more of your horse than it can give will certainly result in missteps and resistance, and these will count against you.

Jo-Ann Hamson New England Horsemen’s Council (NEHC) English, Morgan, Arabian, Appaloosa Q: What do you look for in a pleasure horse, either western or English?

Massachusetts Horse

A: I want to see a nice, well-balanced horse that goes about its business in a pleasant manner. That means not too fast or too slow, head at the vertical — not down so low that it’s dragging on the ground or up so high that it’s staring off into space. The horse has to like what it’s doing. The horse doesn’t have to be the fanciest or the most expensive one in the ring; I’ve come across many that are just regular horses, and when they come into the ring I’m happily surprised that they do such a great job. I love that. I mostly judge open horse shows, so I get a mix of breeds, and I try to judge them on each breed’s merits. If it’s a Morgan western horse, its head should be set up and there should be more contact with the reins. If it’s a stock breed, the head should be at the vertical. These horses should go with a looser rein. I don’t want to see a horse that’s going so slowly that it looks like it can’t move out of its own way. I like natural movement. The same applies to the Hunter Under Saddle class. There I want to see a more forwardgoing horse. I also don’t want to see the rider in a hunter class posting too hard and forward because that doesn’t look natural; I want to see an all-around pretty picture. As a class is under way, I often think, “Is this a horse I’d like to ride?”

April/May 2015

Last — and I tell everyone this: When you go to a show, you’re getting one judge’s opinion on one particular day. Maybe you didn’t get a blue ribbon, but the next time I judge you, you just may win them all!

Meg Hilly USDF “L” Judges Program graduate Q: How can I improve the “stretch” in my dressage test? A: Just as you have you learn to walk before you can learn to run, so you must learn to ride the halt, walk, trot, canter, and stretch on a twenty-meter circle before you can do the more exacting work at collected and medium gaits at the second level and above. The most common error I see in the arena at schooling shows is a lack of understanding of the stretch. I see riders throw away their reins too quickly or not give the reins enough, and this leaves the judge no chance of awarding a higher score. A rider will find that the horse has to learn to seek contact. The purpose of the stretchy circle is to both give the horse a reward and to instill the basic principles of dressage, by encouraging the horse to keep the rhythm and tempo

of the trot without being held up by the rider’s hands. With practice, the horse can learn to stay trotting on the tempo of the rider’s seat and to maintain an active hind leg while relaxing and stretching the topline from the nose (ideally in front of the vertical) to the tail, and will stay on the line of the circle. Spiraling in and out on the circle using leg yielding is an effective way to school this movement. As the rider spirals out, the bending and leg yielding makes the horse supple, and spiraling in teaches the horse to listen to the seat. I teach rider and horse to come in on the circle until the horse walks, which helps the rider learn to change the tempo with her posting and to guide in the horse off the outside leg instead of pulling on the reins. Expanding the circle by spiraling out off the inside leg to the outside rein and then letting the horse “chew” the reins out of the hands helps improve both lateral and longitudinal balance. Once you’ve done this at home, the horse will gladly give you a nice stretch, and if you want to correct your circle from being too large or too small, you’ll be able to guide your horse with your seat and legs in a confident manner, and without using your hands so much. Moreover, any time you have to improve

the quality of the trot, you can act as if you’re going to stretch. Walk before you run and stretch before you collect! The quality of the gaits depends on good basics, and good basics are the foundation for your future.

Jay Quinlan American Ranch Horse Association, National Reined Cow Horse Association Q: How long should I box the cow in the Working Cow Horse class? A: That depends on the cow you draw and your horse. The ability to read cattle and knowing your horse are both important to success. In the boxing portion, there are three objectives. You want to show the judge your horse’s ability to hold and control the cow on the end. While you’re doing that, you’re also shaping up your cow for going down the fence and your circles. You should work the cow on the end long enough to show your horse’s ability to control the cow without staying too long and losing working advantage or losing the cow completely. You want to stay long enough to get some good turns and get the cow’s attention, so you must stay active, but don’t overdo your horse

or cow in this portion. Remember, you still have to go down the fence and circle, and you’ll need enough horse and cow to accomplish that. You really have to learn to read cattle, and you have to know the horse you’re riding. Sometimes a cow needs more time in the boxing, as you teach it to respect your horse, or you’ll want to take some air out of a juicy cow and slow it up a little going down the fence. The same is true about knowing your horse. If you have a lot of confidence in your horse going down the fence and it’s pretty quick and physical enough on the fence and circles, you might get out of the boxing a bit earlier and go for the points on the fence and in the circles with a little more cow. If your horse isn’t as quick and physical down the fence and in the circles, you may want to stay a little longer, to make the cow more manageable — to bring it back to your horse’s level. The boxing should be clean and even. Then go after points on the fence. Leave enough cow and keep enough horse so the degree of difficulty stays as high as possible: You’ll be rewarded for handling the degree of difficulty. Know you horse, learn to read cattle, have fun, and, most of all, respect your

horse and the cattle — without them, we have nothing.

Bill Ritchie NEHC Western, Quarter Horse, Appaloosa Q: How can you consistently judge an open class with different breeds and different disciplines and do it correctly and without bias? A: This question often comes up on the NEHC board, and we’re even trying to organize some clinics on the subject. First, any judge worth his weight should educate himself in whatever branch of the horse world he’ll be officiating. In New England, we participate in a lot of all-breed shows, and among them we need to judge in conformation, western, and English classes, all involving different breeds. The only way a judge can really do a good job is to learn what each breed is supposed to look like. I feel fortunate that I’ve worked with and shown many breeds. A Friesian won’t look like a Quarter Horse and an Appaloosa won’t look like an Arabian. If the judge has a love and appreciation for horses, regardless of the breed, he’ll pick the right horse. When I pick a class — let’s say it’s

Massachusetts Horse

Open Pleasure, meaning there’ll be English and western riders and multiple breeds all together in the ring — I look for that special horse that I’d like to be on right then and there. It stands out in the way it moves, looks, and behaves, and providing it maintains that through the whole class, that horse will be my winner. That said, I ask myself: “Who’s next? If that first horse and rider weren’t here, which horse would I want to be on in this moment?” It doesn’t matter to me what the breed or discipline is; the horse just has to float my boat. But I do have to know the correct way of going for that particular breed or type of horse. This same guideline holds true for conformation, halter, and in-hand classes. You have to know how a good Morgan, Quarter Horse, Friesian, Arabian should look and move. You need to be able to recognize faults in structure and movement, and know what they should look like, so you can judge fairly. No matter what we’re judging, it’s all about education. And to be respected and in-demand as judges, we have to feel confident in all we do.

April/May 2015

Joey Stetz National Reining Horse Association, NEHC Western Q: What are the biggest and most common problems you see in the reining pen? A: The biggest problem I see is people over-showing their horses. The NRHA has one of the best judging systems I’ve seen — everyone starts with a score of 70, and you lose or gain points according to how you perform the pattern. [Over the course of executing movements, you can either earn a better score in ½-point increments, up to 1½, or lose points — also in ½-point increments up, to 1½ for every movement. The idea is simply to be correct: Execute the movements by the book and you’ll exit the arena with a 70.] Especially when it comes to beginners, I often see riders go into the ring and the person coaching them asks them to perform a maneuver at +1½ points. They get themselves in trouble that way, and put themselves in the minus box trying to over-ride the maneuver. At smaller shows in the pleasure classes, an irritation of mine often occurs at the beginning. I give the exhibitors time to find their spots on the rail. Then I ask them to show their horses on the rail

at the walk. Someone will always ride her horse right in front of my face, cutting across the pen to get a different spot on the rail. I just told you I’m judging you on the rail, so as far as I’m concerned, you have a deduction. It’s best just to stick to your spot on the rail if at all possible. I always notice those exhibitors who have good ring awareness and can plan their moves in such a way that they don’t cut off anyone. Finally, when you enter the ring, of course you want the judge to love you right away. The best thing I think you can do at any level is to smile, to show the judge you enjoy what you’re doing. It’s amazing to me how many people come in with an attitude toward the judge, as if he’s an enemy. But, I’ve seen people who are having the worst rides in the world, but they’re smiling throughout the performance. I always appreciate that kind of positive showmanship.

Jennifer Sullivan New England 4-H; NEHC English and Western; United States Equestrian Federation Morgan, Saddlebred, Equitation, Hackney, Friesian, Roadster, and Andalusian/Lusitano Q: How can I improve?

A: The first step I recommend is that all exhibitors take the time to read the rulebooks, and to fully understand them. Most shows print their rules with their prize lists or on their websites. Many default to either the AQHA or USEF Rulebook if they’ve left out something; make sure you know which rulebook the show will default to, as there are differences between them. If you’re showing in breed-specific classes, read what pertains to your breed. Almost every rulebook is available online, and you’ll find many as an app for your phone or tablet. If something isn’t clear or you have questions, contact the show officials before the start of the event. It’s always perfectly okay to ask questions. Sometimes the wording of a rule is complicated and difficult to understand, so seek clarification if you need it. Even though many people have a trainer or instructor who attends the event with them, it’s the individual exhibitor’s responsibility to know the rules. Trusting your trainer is important, but if you as an exhibitor take the time to know what’s expected, you’re educating yourself, which in the long run will make you not only a better exhibitor, but also a better equestrian. Secondly, I recommend exhibitors consider their appearance. When you enter the ring, the first thing the judge sees is the overall picture. You don’t have to be on a million-dollar horse or wear a million-dollar outfit, but you can present both you and your horse in a positive manner. Thus, I recommend that exhibitors consider improvements in their appearance. Let’s face it, though show clothes are expensive. Even when you can purchase items in used (but good) condition, costs add up quickly. I understand that, so here are some simple ways to clean up your look without spending a fortune. Ask yourself these questions: • Is my attire clean? • Does it fit properly? • Is my hair neat? • Am I wearing my number? And can the judge see it? • Is my horse clean? • If my horse is braided/banded, did I do a neat job? • Is the tack clean? • Are all straps tucked into the keepers? • Does the tack fit properly? If you come into the ring with ill-fitting attire or a dirty horse, you’re giving the wrong impression right off the bat. Also, if there are two exhibitors who are

CLINICS

Daniel Stewart Clinic April 11 - 12 . Unlimited space for auditors U.S. Olympic coach Daniel Stewart brings his two-day “Pressure Proof Your Riding” clinic to Heritage Farm featuring exercises for all riders that help mentally prepare for competitions. Riding spots are full. We have unlimited space for auditors at $25 per day which includes a potluck dinner during the Sports Psychology Seminar Saturday night and a potluck lunch and a seminar emphasizing rider fitness on Sunday.

Jon Ensign Horsemanship Clinic May 24 - 26 . Limited openings available and going quickly Morning sessions: General horsemanship. Afternoon sessions: Cattle work.

SHOWS

WNEPHA Dressage Show

W ha te ve r s, w e ha ve yo ur in te re st r yo u. so m et hi ng fo ng er ra st a D on ’t be he re !

April 26 Tests for English and western riders, also offering a Professional division. Part of the new WNEPHA Dressage Series with year-end awards. Entries close April 21; schedule posted online by April 23.

New England Stock Horse Series Show June 21 Five individually judged classes for western horses and riders in four divisions: Green, Novice/Youth, No-Pro, and Open. Day-end and series-end awards!

Open to buy, sell, or trade horses 7 days a week, by appointment. Nice Horses for Nice People. Auctions . Hunter, Stock Horse, and Dressage Shows . IEA Team The Raucher Family 30 Florence Rd. Easthampton, MA (413) 527-1612 www.farmheritage.com

neck and neck for a ribbon, the one who presents the better picture will likely place ahead. It’s also important to set yourself up for success by entering the classes for which you and your horse are best suited. Often an exhibitor will go for a day-end award, which means she must compete in several classes. However, not all horses will excel in a variety of classes, and you should take into account how many your horse can handle in one day. Make sure you put your horse in the appropriate classes and divisions. For example, if your horse doesn’t like trail classes, this isn’t the best entry for you. Even when a trail class counts toward a day-end award, look at the big picture. Is

that ribbon really worth stressing your horse? It’s okay if you and your horse aren’t good at everything. That doesn’t mean you’re a bad rider and it certainly doesn’t mean your horse is a bad horse. Just know what the two of you are good at and go from there. Remember, you and your horse are a team. 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

by Jessica Paquette

Volo Farm

Understanding and Appreciation of the Equine Partner

at Stall Brinkman, in Germany, where she was a working student. “I’ve been very fortunate,” says Hannah. “Constance has been extremely generous. She’s kept me with some very nice horses and we continue to gain clients, buy better horses, jump a little higher, and go on to bigger shows.” Hannah’s passion, however, lies in working with untried horses.” I just love

Brian Phelan

Constance Noble, the matriarch of Volo s you approach Volo Farm, you Farm — that people think is between 35 may sense the history of this and 40 years old. Westford landmark. The prop“Connie just loves the horses,” says erty has had horses since 1978 and now — as one of the premier hunter/jumper Melissa. “That’s the heart behind this. We love our school horses and they facilities in the state — this is the site of have a home for life. We do have quite a numerous shows and clinics. lot of retired horses.” Here I learned to tack up a horse Down the aisle, Melissa stops at for the first time, post the trot, and every horse and has something to say eventually jump a little course on a about each one. “This guy, he’s a great pony. As a youngster I learned patience and discipline, and that hard work brings results. My story isn’t unique — Volo Farm has opened the world of horses for countless horse-crazy little girls. With 42 horses and a full staff, organization is the key to a smooth operation. Business manager Melissa Consalvo, who has an extensive background in all things equestrian, is in charge of the daily workings. She, too, learned to ride here, and her road back to the place where she began was a winding one. She graduated from the University of Massachusetts Amherst with a degree in music. “I thought horses would be my hobby,” says Melissa, laughing, “and I thought music would be my career. But they switched, and here I am. I love the business end. There are always things you can learn about running a horse farm, and I’ve been fortunate to get Melissa Consalvo riding Index, owned by Mary Cancian. exposure to many ideas and theories.” But her learning doesn’t stop there. jumper,” she says. “And over there, he came all the way from Hong Kong with She’s pursuing an MBA in business a flight full of racehorses.” management at Northeastern In addition to the retirees and the University, and is Bentley University’s school horses, the farm boasts an arsecoach of its Intercollegiate Horse Show nal of show horses that compete around Association (IHSA) team. She had the country on premier circuits. As a coached Boston College’s ISHA team, matter of fact, the farm’s head trainer, and ultimately took it to Nationals in Hannah Lavin, is currently in Ocala, 2004. Florida, at HITS with a string of horses and clients. THE FARM CATERS to horses at every stage in their career. Guiness, a 22-yearA THIRD-GENERATION horsewoman, old former jumper, is enjoying a quiet Hannah has a wealth of experience. retirement. And this big bay gelding, After a competitive career as a junior, who sports a thick, fluffy winter coat, she joined the professional ranks at isn’t even close to the oldest horse on the property. That crown goes to a pony only 19. Her education continued from there and included a seven-month stint — it belonged to the daughter of

Westford

April/May 2015

Hannah Lavin riding Aramis Z, owned by Niffer Cancian.

bringing along young horses,” she says. “It’s rewarding to get them to the point where they’re relaxed, polite, happy, and, ultimately, winning ribbons. I love when they just get it — and then from there, they learn to love it.” The farm enjoys some of the top amenities, such as brand-new GGT footing in the spacious 80' x 200' main indoor arena. There’s also a heated 80' x 200' indoor arena, two outdoor rings, and a large grass jumping field. And there’s something for every discipline and riders at every level. VOLO FARM HOSTS Massachusetts Horsemen’s Council– and New England Horsemen’s Council–rated schooling

shows. “We hold our shows, which focus on jumpers and equitation, in fall and winter,” says Hannah. “The shows are low key, so we can spend most of our energy on our students,” she says. “We make sure the courses are realistic enough that people are competing at the level they expect and we try to make sure the courses are friendly and inviting. We want our students to think about showing.” Hannah says the dressage schooling shows follow the ride-critique-ride format: “Each rider performs the test in front of the judge, then the judge talks to each about what went well and what needed work. Students then may ride their test again, to try to improve their performance. People like this format,” she says, “because they learn a lot.” Participants and spectators come out for the Interscholastic Equestrian Association (IEA) and IHSA shows. “Jennifer Phelan, Volo Farm’s IEA coach, runs the IEA shows and she and Melissa run the IHSA shows together,” says Hannah. “Jen is super organized and level headed. The feedback we get from those shows is that they’re organized and run smoothly, and that our days are always of a civilized length.” The host facility utilizes its lesson horses, but other farms provide some too. Exhibitors enter a lottery and ride the horse they draw. “Volo Farm is very fortunate to have fabulous school horses,” says Hannah. “Jen is choosy about the horses she brings in from outside farms, so people always love the group of horses we have.” THERE’S SOMETHING FOR every discipline and riders at every level. “In 2013,” says Joan Carroll, of Concord, “I researched and contacted numerous barns in the Boston area before choosing Volo Farm for my first riding lesson as an absolute beginner. I was impressed by the superb quality of instruction at Volo. Over the past two years,” she says, “the farm’s vibrant community of dedicated staff and riders has become a major part of my life. Now I’m leasing a horse, have had some show experience, and am progressing toward training level in dressage.” Helen Varker has been a client at Volo Farm for seven years. Her daughter, Catrin Shrady, began riding there when she was six years old with, says Helen, “no experience with horses or

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It’s a Pleasure Training with Peter Whitmore (978) 652-2231 . www.itsaple asure t raining.com any expectations.” Now 13, Catrin has competed successfully all over the state. “Volo Farm goes above and beyond riding lessons,” says Helen. “In addition to excellent instruction, the Volo staff strive to instill understanding and appreciation of the equine partner. They’re dedicated to teaching not only riding but also horsemanship. With their support and never-ending willingness to help and educate, they’ve been invaluable partners on our equestrian journey.”

On June 20, Volo Farm is hosting an Open Barn. To learn more, visit www.volofarm.com. Jessica Paquette has been working at Suffolk Downs for almost ten years, most recently as television analyst and senior director of communications. She keeps her off-the-track Thoroughbred racehorse, What a Trippi, in Essex, where they’re training for their debut in the jumper ring.

Massachusetts Horse

lend a hoof

Bolton

Tomten Farm and Sanctuary

by Karena Garrity

A Menagerie of Rescues

Jen Vickery

iving by the mantra “Start where each of her charges one that fits it Providing peace, protection, and you are, do what you can,” Jen uniquely. Her most recent rescue, a 21possibility is a way for Jen to honor her Vickery is trying to change the year-old strawberry blond Appaloosa beloved Sturgeon Moon. “When I left world one horse, one goat, one pig, and with a freckly hind end, was saved this for college,” Jen says, “I had to let go of one dog at a time. A self-proclaimed fall at the D. R. Chamber Auction, aka my off-the-track Thoroughbred mare; “crazy horse girl,” she’s now in the the Unadilla Kill Auction, in Unadilla, we couldn’t afford both college and my process of turning her 11-acre Bolton New York, and he’s now called horse. I thought I was sending her to a farm into an official, nongood home, doing the profit animal sanctuary. responsible thing — we It’s fittingly named had a contract, and I Tomten Farm, from a book checked in on her by Astrid Lindgren (adapted often.” Jen sighs. “But from the writings of Viktor the owner broke the Rydberg) that tells the story contract and my horse of a gnomelike figure who ended up at auction to lives in a hayloft and probe sold for meat. It tects the animals there, visitbroke my heart, and it ing each one nightly and was a real awakening tucking them all in. Jen is for me, so now I’m saving animals of all working to save other shapes and sizes. Currently animals from the same home to seven horses, two fate. Unfortunately, ponies, two pigs, seven what happened to my dogs, four goats, a few horse happens much chickens, a handful of more than we think it geese (among them does.” Abnerita and Elsa Starting small, Savanna), and a small famJen’s first job was ily of felines, Tomten mucking stalls. Then, Farm is a menagerie, and 18 years ago, she devel“Happiness is knowing that because of us, Annabella gets to fly,” says Jen Vickery. Jen wouldn’t have it any oped Pawsitive Dog other way. Pippilottaspotslongstocking (Astrid Training, in Boston. With passion (and A long gravel driveway leads to the Lindgren may be most famous for her patience!), she’s helped train more sanctuary, which comprises a sturdy books about the adventures of Pippi than 10,000 canines, many of which she four-stall barn adorned with plain gray Longstocking). Jen chose him because describes as “at risk.” trim surrounded by woods and cleared he has a warm and calm temperament, “Because my business is in Boston, pastures, separated by traditional wood- qualities that will be helpful for we tend to get many city dogs that have plank fencing. As in a Thomas Kinkade Tomten’s newer volunteers, who are aggression or behavioral problems,” Jen painting, the windows of her small just learning their way around 1,200says. “I love helping the canine commuhouse are subtly illuminated: beacons pound horses. nity and I love my job. I’m lucky, of hope for chickens that sleep in cat “We try to save the horses that are because I have a wonderful support beds, pigs that sit on command, and safe and sane,” says Jen. “Often the group of people I work with, and that goats and horses that consider themolder horses are overlooked, and Pippi enables me to split my time between selves besties. is just a great guy who deserved a good Pawsitive and Tomten.” The unofficial welcoming commithome. He’s exactly what we were lookJen comes from a hunter perspectee changes daily, but usually consists of ing for.” tive and traditional riding instruction. a flurry of dogs; the brother and sister There’s also the resident pony, Mr. “I’ve always loved animals and have pigs, Mabel Consuela and Diego Noodle (not a rescue; he’s actually Jen’s been riding since I was nine,” she says. Montoya; and Rastus the Fastus, a black mother’s pet), and Annabella, the Now she calls herself “an instructor at Nubian goat with large floppy ears and smallest and youngest of the equine heart.” She’s built on her background a toothy underbite of a smile. Rastus herd, a rescue Shetland pony who’s and integrated natural horsemanship does his best to get to visitors first: thus, very fond of Mr. Noodle — and vice practices, and says it’s important to pass his name. versa. Then there’s Viva the Diva, the on her knowledge to her volunteers. Speaking of names, Jen bestows on bossy mare. “Of course, the sanctuary is about the

April/May 2015

animals,” she says, “but I want this place equally to be about educating the volunteers,” who, just like the animals, come in all ages, shapes, and sizes. Working with horses and dogs, Jen notes the similarities between the two species. She teaches her volunteers and participants in her programs that both the predator, pack-driven animals and the prey, herd-driven animals are looking for the same thing from humans: a competent leader. “The number one thing in training both horses and dogs,” says Jen, “is to imagine who you’d want to be as a leader, not to dominate but rather to be patient, clear, compassionate, and engaging, a leader who always meets the animals’ needs before his own. That’s a huge part of what we do: We have to meet the animals’ needs before we can expect them to meet ours. I try to help people develop to become the leaders their animals need — dependable, because neither horses nor dogs want to follow someone who’s emotionally unstable.” Focused as she is on education, one of Jen’s goals is to provide opportunities to learn for people who want to help animals and then to establish a relationship with animals they wouldn’t be able to afford on their own. “This is beneficial for animals and people,” says Jen. “Every day a volunteer is here, she’s getting educated and becoming a more enriched member of the community, and at the same time she’s enriching the lives of animals. It’s wonderful for me to watch an animal and a person learn together.” Jen recently witnessed this phenomenon when she brought a “damaged” rescued off-the-track Thoroughbred named Falah to her barn. With a soft spot for what she calls the “dancing and snorting” of Thoroughbreds, Jen fell in love, but it wasn’t exactly reciprocal. Mistrustful of humans but not entirely soured, Falah bucked off Jen — and many others. It wasn’t until a young lady named Aileen started working with this leggy guy that a change occurred. “Aileen was determined to learn all she could, and put in the hours and hours it took to get this horse to trust again,” says Jen. “When he came here, you couldn’t go near him with a girth, so for eighteen months Aileen worked with him from the ground up, developing a relationship through natural Massachusetts Horse

Come experience the ultimate of classical dressage.

April/May 2015

horsemanship. Now it’s amazing to see this team and how a horse that had no chance was transformed.” Because saving animals often means saving humans, Jen has designed a program called the People Project. Once participants have the necessary training in safety and understand the premises of natural horsemanship practices, they choose a “project horse,” which in a sense becomes “their” horse. Jen would like to work with four pairs each year. And because her space is limited, she’d also like to have at least one horse up for adoption at all times. “I realize I can’t do too many rescues at the sanctuary,” Jen says, “so I’m not about the numbers; I’m about the quality. I want to make a difference in the lives of the animals and of our volunteers.” Community outreach is an important component of Jen’s philosophy. “We have a program in which little ones choose their favorite animal to read a book to,” she says, “and there’s our Bring a Senior to the Farm Day. Being around animals and asking nothing of them is an important part of the human/animal partnership here on the farm.” Just silently communing with animals can be soothing for volunteers and visitors. “Sometimes,” says Jen, “there are in stillness gifts and moments that capture the heart.” One day, Jen says, she’d like to have a larger facility with a full-time educational program. Whatever the future has in store, though, she’ll split her time equally between the sanctuary and her dog-training business, because, she says, she wants to be able to help as many animals as she can. “I know I can have a significant impact on animals,” she says. For more information about the sanctuary and its programs or about volunteer opportunities, visit www.tomtenfarmandsanctuary.org, and check out the farm’s Facebook page. Karena Garrity is a freelance writer who enjoys crafting articles about her passion for horses, other animals, architecture, and food. She shares her home with her husband and two sons, as well as an elderly pug, a 16-year-old Manx cat, and a rescue Boston terrier/French bulldog. She volunteers at a therapeutic-riding center and spends her free time with her good friend, a Quarter Horse named Truman.

Massachusetts Horse

stable devotion Springfield by Christina Andersen

Heather, Grumps, and Gulli

hock injections to keep him sound, but he was stiff. Because there was no quick fix, his owner signed him over to Sabrina, who suggested Heather begin working with him. “I thought: He’s old, he’s safe; he’ll just stand there and pout,” Sabrina says. Heather, who lives in Springfield,

ect. Heather smiles as she remembers thinking: He’s Grumpy, I like that. It’s a challenge. And thus began their partnership. Heather’s approach to the Appaloosa’s ailments was different from administering injections. She knew that to ease his arthritis, Grumps needed to move around. Their first month

Kristen Hart

Christina Andersen

eather Smith’s personality warms the graying stable and brightens the winter landscape. Her leather boots show traces of snowy manure. Bundled up in her barn clothes and with her hair pulled back in a loose red braid, she’s all smiles. Her service dog, Fernando, is running around, elated to be a barn dog

Heather and Grumps in Batchelor Brook.

even if just for a few hours. Springfield resident Heather breezes into the gambrel-roofed barn, where a Palomino named Gulli is standing proudly in a blinged-out lime green halter. In Granby, the blue roof of Lower Maple Crest Stables stands out, and marks the place that launched a special bond. As Heather mucks the stalls, owner and trainer Sabrina Obremski swaps with her stories and memories of a unique horse, affectionately called Grumps. Hez Dun It Grumpy, a notorious stall weaver, spent most of his time moping, antisocial, and “just plain miserable,” as Sabrina puts it. Before he found himself in Granby, the Appaloosa traveled across the country, competing with 10 or so owners and earning some World Points of his own. At 19, Grumps had begun to show his age. His arthritis required regular 20

April/May 2015

Heather with Gulli and Fernando.

loves a challenge, and her life has been full of them. In high school, she ran track and competed in triathlons. Riding horses throughout her youth, it was her love of animals that drove her to become a veterinary technician. Life came to a screeching halt for Heather and her family in 2009, however, when she was diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder called Sjogren’s syndrome. It attacked her spinal cord and took away her ability to use her legs without crutches or a wheelchair. Heather suddenly found herself homebound. As if she’d let that stop her . . . The cost of physical therapy three times a week was overwhelming and therapeutic riding was equally expensive, so Heather knew she had to get creative. When she asked Sabrina if she could take lessons, Grumpy became her proj-

together, December 2013, the two built mutual respect — a big hurdle to overcome for a horse who initially had no interest in human interaction — while working on a longe line. Heather never pushed him beyond his capabilities, and Grumps, who wasn’t fazed by her crutches, didn’t push past her physical limitations. “I was determined to be more stubborn than he was,” says Heather, laughing. Building that relationship greatly improved Grumps’s personality. “I knew he was more capable, that he could do more diverse things,” Heather says. “I’d tell him ‘You can be everything you want to be. You’re going to be as ambitious as I am.’ ” Simultaneously, their lives improved. Heather says being at the barn weekly for chores and lessons “has been fantastic therapy, mentally and physically.” And surpassing everyone’s

doubts, Grumps became, well, less grumpy. His arthritis eased up. He could now be seen engaging with other horses in the field, playing as if he was a colt. “He just really perked up,” says Sabrina. “Suddenly he was a horse again.” Having been a vet tech for close to 20 years, Heather knew what to do when she found some hard lumps on the Appaloosa. Five months after they began their experience together, Sabrina and Heather got the results from the lymphnode biopsy: cancer. After all the hard work, the determination, and the love, the news was devastating. But Heather isn’t your average barn girl. Her strong will and selfproclaimed stubbornness led her to come up with a positive way to manage the diagnosis. Heather created a bucket list of fun and ambitious challenges for the two of them to undertake during what she knew would be their only summer together. She created 17 challenges, in a variety of difficulties. Some were simple — ride in the snow; canter willingly on request — others were more physically demanding. Still others tested Grumps’s patience and trust. Heather and Grumps loved hitting the trails together. They began their bucket-list adventure in April by trail-riding off the property and competing in an American Competitive Trail Horse Association ride. They completed the 2014 Western Massachusetts Appaloosa Association (WMAA) Open Show Series, and proudly became reserve champions in Showmanship and Pleasure. And they didn’t stop there. Grumps (and Heather) was named grand champion in Trail after winning the WMAA Trail Circuit. That summer they completed a trail obstacle series, and even went for a swim in the Atlantic Ocean. In August, this dynamic duo were named division champions at the Granby Regional Horse Show. They went for a bareback ride, something Heather never believed possible with her handicap. Grumps became her legs: He enabled her to ride through Mount Holyoke Range State Park, as her family tagged along on mountain bikes. More than anything, she says, she wanted Grumps “to be happy, to be a horse.” Grumps kindly and patiently taught Heather’s children, ages 10 and 12, to ride. Heather’s mother got back in the saddle, and Heather even convinced her husband to give it a try. Grumps did his own good deed too. He visited elemen-

tary school children in Springfield, giving them the chance to meet and groom a real live horse. In six months, the pair completed all of their challenges. As summer faded into fall, it became clear that Grumps’s time was nearing. In October, Heather and Grumps took their last ride together, through a hayfield. Their destination was the spot where he would be laid to rest. Heather says she’s been humbled by this horse. “I’m honored to have given him a kick-ass last year,” she says. Grumps had become a confident horse. He’d learned to trust again, and he knew he was loved. Across the barn aisle, Sabrina looks at Heather. “You gave him a reason to live and a purpose,” she says. “He needed you more than you needed him.”

Training . Lessons Coaching . Showing Melissa Lalli Trainer

Licensed Riding Instructor Multi-carded Judge

Enter Gulli “One of the best lessons that came out of the bucket list,” says Heather, “was Grumps’s ability to push my physical capabilities beyond what I believed I could achieve.” The Appaloosa awakened in Heather a fierce ambition. In November, at a barn sale, a small, 14-year-old Palomino Quarter Horse named Gulli caught her attention. Little Gulli seemed skeptical about Heather’s crutches, but he tolerated them. He was a bit gimpy and underweight but had a sweet and hopeful expression. His records showed he frequented the sale barn. Gulli went to Sabrina’s Lower Maple Crest. “I like the broken ones,” Heather says with a grin. She calls it stubbornness, but it’s her love and determination that enable her to succeed with complicated horses. “I make suggestions to Heather,” says Sabrina, “but I don’t tell her what to do.” Gulli is standing patiently, curiously checking everyone for treats. Under Heather’s care, his health has improved. Proper hoof trimming and exercise have strengthened his hind end, which resolved his lameness issues. Now, says Heather, “he neck-reins like a dream.” Lower Maple Crest Stables is building an indoor arena, where Heather plans to continue the progress she and Gulli have made in para-reining, which is especially for riders with physical disabilities. Heather and Gulli will compete in the new Para Reining classes at the Massachusetts Quarter Horse

Belchertown, Mass. dreambigperformancehorses.com 413-218-1681 Association’s April and May shows. She encourages disabled riders to challenge themselves, to dream big and enjoy the confidence it takes to compete. “Grumps gave me back my legs,” says Heather. “He gave me legs to be able to walk and run without crutches or a wheelchair. He figuratively gave me the legs to strive for goals that I thought I could never set, let alone achieve. The confidence to attempt para-reining comes from Grumps, as he showed me that on a horse, I can achieve anything.” Soon Heather gracefully leads the small Palomino, with Fernando tagging along, to his snowy pasture. What Grumps taught her lives on with her new partner, Gulli. 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.

Massachusetts Horse

barn dog diaries

Introducing a New Dog to the Barn by Patricia Lalli

Patricia Lalli

When considering getting a barn facility. Be sure yours knows the basic s there a new barn dog in your future? dog, think about the grooming needs, commands. It should come when You won’t be alone: Drive onto any horse property and you’re likely to be energy level, and size of a breed, as well called, sit, stay, walk by your side, and whether it can perform certain tasks. accept being tied or confined without greeted by at least one canine. That’s what happens when you visit Will it accompany you on trail rides, dis- complaint. Practice these commands in patch mice, be a loyal companion? a variety of locations and with all types Greene Acres Equestrian Center, in Make sure you take home a dog that of distractions: You’ll be rewarded with Belchertown, for example. It’s a cold, a dog that’s safe, happy, and a good frosty day, but the five dogs in residence will fit the bill. Maria suggests you look for a dog companion, to you and to your horses. don’t seem to mind. After a brief and with an outgoing personality: “A dog Before you bring your dog to a cheerful welcome, they’re off with barn not your own, be sure noses to the ground and tails you have permission. Respect held high. those who are not comfortAmanda Hodgen, owner able around dogs. Make sure of the training and boarding your dog is current with all facility, says that although vaccinations — for the health her pack provides protection of others as well as its own. and vermin control, the dogs’ primary purpose is companionship. In addition, Getting to Know Each Other she says, “they add comic When you’re ready to introrelief to the farm.” duce a dog to your horses, let The dogs coexist with a the dog’s demeanor help you pot-bellied pig and the 33 determine the right time to horses on her property. start. If your dog is typically None of the dogs chases or high energy, let it burn off the harasses the horses; rather, excess before the two of you they don’t pay them much head into the barn. Don’t attention. Amanda doesn’t force a shy dog to approach a use a particular training horse. Instead, give it short method when introducing a periods of barn time with new dog to the barn. Most of plenty of praise and treats; hers joined the family as that should help it have posipuppies and were then tive associations with the brought to the barn on a reghorses. Melissa Lalli riding KR Gunz N Roses with her Australian shepherd, Vegas. ular basis. Amanda says they A dog-broke horse cerhad “good role models” in the dogs that that actively seeks attention from peotainly helps make introductions run were already in residence. ple,” she says, “will usually be happy in smoothly, as it won’t react to a barking Rainbow Rescues, in Granville, tries any situation. Don’t feel that it’s necesor nervous newcomer. Be calm and conto find a home for its dogs. Maria sary to adopt an eight-week-old puppy. fident with the dog. Encourage a tentaO’Brien, director of the rescue, says A dog of six to eight months of age has tive sniff and reward relaxed postures. many of the adopters are looking for a had time to establish its personality,” If the dog becomes anxious, increase barn companion. She doesn’t recomshe says, “and you can then assess how it the distance between it and the horse, mend any particular breed. “Every type interacts with you.” Even a new puppy then return in a few minutes. of dog, including Labs, pit bulls, and adopted and introduced to horses early With careful exposure to horses, boxers, has been successfully adopted on may be unsuited for life on a horse your dog will soon be eager to accomby equestrians,” she says. She has one farm, she cautions. It’s the dog’s perpany you to the barn. warning, though: “Hounds tend to sonality and its disposition that make focus on tracking scents, and that can one a good candidate, or an unhappy To learn more about Rainbow Rescues, visit lead them off the property.” one, for life as a barn dog. www.rainbowrescues.org or call (413) 612-2744. The working dog — such as a cattle “We have dogs that are fostered in Patricia Lalli, a children’s librarian, has a 19-yeardog — tends to be the least likely to homes with horses,” says Maria. “When old Paint gelding, a four-year-old Appaloosa stray, but if it has an intense herding a potential adopter is looking for a dog mare, four dogs, and three cats, and is now instinct, it’ll want to push and shove to to bring to the barn, we already know if enjoying adventures with Keeva, a Cardigan Welsh get all your horses (or children!) into a one will be a good match.” corgi puppy who promises to be a barn dog group. You’ll have to train it to ensure A well-mannered dog can be a extraordinaire. its safety and that of your horses. delightful addition to any equestrian 22

April/May 2015

Massachusetts Horse

Granby

This Olde Horse

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April/May 2015

trail guide by Stacey Stearns

Freetown–Fall River State Forest Fall River

riving leisurely in idyllic Freetown, with the Assonet River running through its center, you’ll see picturesque buildings, stone walls, and even a gazebo in the park. There’s a rural, colonial air that takes you back in time . . .

Drive into the main entrance and follow the signs to the left. The 46-car lot at the main headquarters, on Slab Bridge Road (also Route 79) in Assonet, is where you park your trailer. Pick up a map at park headquarters, which is the second building as you

Stacey Stearns

. . . and then you arrive at your destination: Freetown–Fall River State Forest, which comprises 5,441 acres and 50 miles of unpaved roads and trails. The park is quite busy during the summer, but equestrians have access to excellent trails yearround. The forest is part of the Southeastern Massachusetts Bioreserve, a 13,600-acre tract the goal of which is to restore and enhance biological diversity and ecological integrity. The reserve — the Acushnet Wildlife Management Area, land owned by the City of Fall River, and the former Acushnet Saw Mills property, managed by the Trustees of Reservations — has been permanently protected from development. The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) manages the forest. The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) completed early work from 1933 to 1942, and two camps were located on the property. A statue dedicated to the CCC workers in 2002 stands at the entrance of the main parking area. In the forest is the 227-acre Watuppa Reservation (site of one of the CCC camps), which belongs to the Wampanoag Nation. It’s said that Profile Rock, a 50-foot outcropping, has the profile of Chief Massasoit. Annual tribal meetings take place at the reservation. There’s a large recreation area at the main park entrance, with picnic tables, places to grill, water fountains, pavilions, and a splash pool— so you can make a day of it. Whether you’re looking for some decent mileage for a conditioning ride or a pleasant trail ride in the woods, Freetown–Fall River State Forest has something for you.

Plan Your Ride

The bridle paths run parallel to and are crisscrossed by many of the multiuse trails. You’ll also be riding near wetlands, and past many of the 31 CCC water holes that were built for fire protection. The unpaved roads have been nicely preserved. There’s also a stone arch bridge that exemplifies the craftsmanship of CCC workers. On a crisp Sunday afternoon, only a few others were out enjoying the trails — predominantly people walking dogs and a couple of mountain bikers. Consider riding with a hoof pick if you don’t already: there’s a lot of gravel and small rocks on the trails. Because there are roots and pine needles, hoof protection is a very good idea.

Other Info and Recommendations enter. Or scan the quick-response (QR) code on the bulletin board in the lot and a trail map will download onto your smart phone. A map is essential: the forest is vast, and it’s easy to get lost. The trails with red blazes are for horses, but the Bridle Trail often overlaps with the nonmotorized, multiuse trails, which are blazed green. All are wide — you can ride side by side on many — and well marked not just with arrows on the trees, but also with brown signage indicating the names.

Off You Go . . . Coming out of the parking area, turn left, ride around the brown gate, and head down unpaved Payne Road. Take a right at the T-intersection and keep following Payne Road. At the next trail intersection, take a left to continue on the Bridle Trail on unpaved Hathaway Road. This is one of the longest stretches on this loop. At the next trail intersection, go right to follow Makepeace Road — another unpaved road that’s part of the Bridle Trail. After about a quarter of a mile, Makepeace Road connects with the Bent Rim Trail. Go left onto Bent Rim and ride three miles , which returnes you to the parking area.

The bathrooms are closed during the off season. Four additional parking areas are in Fall River, which is in the southern section of the forest, for equestrians who would like to explore a different part of the Bridle Trail without adding more miles to their ride. Hunting is allowed in season, so wear blaze orange when appropriate. Motorcyclists enjoy the forest, and their parking lot and many trails are in the southern area. In winter, snowmobilers and the occasional dogsledder also use the trails. In spring, Rattlesnake Brook is stocked with trout. The brook begins at Doctors Mill Pond, in the southern part of the forest, and is the site of a grist- and sawmill from the 1700s and 1800s. Over the years, the area has had more than its share of unfortunate events. Some believe the cause goes back to a curse from the Wompanoag tribe. If you Google Freetown–Fall River State Forest, you’ll find quite a bit about paranormal activity, urban legends, and even crime. Although some people claim they’ve had an eerie feeling in the forest, there hasn’t been any evidence of crime or the paranormal in recent history. Happy trails!

Massachusetts Horse

Tips for Trailer Preparation

horse sense

by Linsey K. Mulvany

ven though many of us are buried up to our noses in snow, take heart: Travel season is just around the corner. Transporting a horse is serious business; it takes careful planning, knowledge of your equipment, and the utmost caution. When you have everything in place, though, the open road presents unlimited opportunities for you and your horse. Whether you’re seeking ribbons, new terrain, or riding buddies, when the travel bug bites, go out and enjoy all the adventures that await. USRider, the only company to provide emergency roadside assistance to horse owners, reminds equestrians that now’s the time to perform basic — but essential — maintenance on our trailers as preventive medicine. After all, don’t we all want our transport to be in optimal shape for the safety of our precious cargo? Follow these tips and you’ll greatly reduce the chances of finding yourself stranded on the side of the road.

1. Remove and inspect all wheels and hubs or brake drums.

2. Inspect the suspension for wear. 3. Check tightness of hanger bolts, shackle bolts, and U-bolt nuts per recommended torque values.

4. Check brake linings, brake drums, and armature faces for excessive wear or scoring. 5. Check the brake magnetic coil with an ohmmeter. The magnetic coil should check 3.2 ohms (+/- 0.3 ohm). If shorted or out of tolerance, replace. 6. Oil all moving parts of the brakes with a high-temperature brake lubricant. 7. Remove any rust from braking sur faces and from the armature sur faces of drums. 8. Inspect oil or grease seals for wear and nicks. Replace if necessary. 9. Inspect and grease wheel bearings. 10. Inspect trailer wiring and lighting. Look over door latches and grease the doors. 11. Check the floor; remove the mats so you can take a close look over the entire area. 12. Lubricate moving mechanical parts, such as the components of the hitch and the suspension. 13. If the trailer has been sitting for a while, check for wasp nests (and wasps) and spiderwebs (and spiders), and keep an eye out for any other creatures that now want to call the trailer home.

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April/May 2015

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Tires In addition, recommends USRider (which also offers towing to its members), check all trailer tires (including spares) for signs of dry rot, correct air pressure, faulty air valves, uneven wear, overall wear, and damage. Replace tires every three to five years regardless of mileage. Use only quality tires designed and rated specifically for trailers. Never use retreads or automobile tires on a horse trailer. When replacing tires, always replace the valve stems as well.

Trailers 2015

Don’t forget to check the air pressure. Invest in a high-quality gauge — and learn how to use it — then inspect tire pressure before each trip. Service the wheel bearings annually or every 12,000 miles, whichever comes first, to ameliorate moisture buildup. Keep a spare set of bearings in the trailer in case of premature failure.

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I.C.E. USRider advises horse owners to use I.C.E. (In Case of Emergency). This initiative is of great help to emergency responders if they need to identify victims and determine whom they should call (your vet, for example, or a relative). Implementing I.C.E. is easy. Program your emergency contact information into your cell phone and designate it with the acronym ICE. Note: Make sure you have your emergency numbers in the tow vehicle as well. For more information about USRider, visit www.usrider.org. Lindsey K. Mulvany works with USRider and Trail Rider. She has a bachelor’s degree in equine science and loves to train and show reining horses.

Horse & Pony Sales We specialize in horse trading. We can match an owner with the perfect horse just about every time! From Western Pleasure to Trail, Driving to Cutting, we have a great selection that will please any equestrian.

Tack Shop & Ranch Supplies We have the products and tack you’ll need to keep your horses happy, healhty, and safe. stall mats . feed tubs . bunk feeders . round pens . wire panels . gates . square bale feeders stock tubs . swing gates . field wire . fences . stalls

Grain . Hay . Shavings Paper or plastic bags for shavings. Wood pellet bedding. Quality hay from Canada and New York first and second cut timothy to alfalfa.

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508-763-5158 . www.chipawaystables.com

Massachusetts Horse

Overherd

News in Our Community

under the direction of Anne Benson. they didn’t last very long, either.” With support from local businesses, This season, she’ll move up to compete This winter, record-breaking snowfall National Grid led a cooperative team of in equitation and pleasure classes in the and cold temperatures in central and Walk Trot divisions of the Under 14 engineers and energy-efficiency experts eastern Massachusetts caused the roofs group. to build a customized lighting system. of a number of barns and arenas to fall n Suzy Lucine “The barn is much easier to see in and in. Two horses died when a Quonsetwork in,” says Paul, “and the quality of hut-style run-in shed colVeterans’ Obstacle lapsed at Bobby’s Ranch, in Course Gets Grant Westford. Other snow- and Windrush Therapeutic frost-related collapses hapProgram, in Boxford, pened at Dry Water Farm, in received a grant from Stoughton; Gathering Farm, the Professional in Hamilton; Flying High Association of Stable, in North Andover; Therapeutic Highland Hill Farm, in Horsemanship Berlin; Salt Marsh Farm, in International (PATH) to South Dartmouth; Rainbow’s build an outdoor trail End Riding and Therapeutic and obstacle course to Center, in North Attleboro, expand its Letter Perfect Farm, in Horsemanship for Uxbridge; Jettset EnDevers Heroes program. Show Horses, in Norwell; Veterans enjoy working Maglynn Acres, in Rehoboth; with the horses both on and the vacant Andover the ground and Riding Academy. Some small Harry Sebring was inducted into the American Morgan Horse Association Hall of Fame mounted, and will be private barns also collapsed, and Cindy Mugnier was named AMHA Woman of the Year. able to use this obstacle among them one in course for both. Middleboro, and a Sherborn facility was The course will bring horses the light is much more even. It’s been a evacuated under a building inspector’s through “basic training” elements such wonderful addition to the farm. order. as a balance beam, a teeter-totter, Everybody’s always commenting, ‘Oh, I The owners of many of these barns chutes, logs, bridges, and steps. The can’t believe this light!’ Between the are determined to rebuild. Want to outdoor elements add a real sense of additional light and the savings on our help? Visit their websites for links to adventure, and provide a fulfilling electricity bills, the difference will be fund-raising pages. experience for the veterans. substantial.” Trail obstacles of this nature chaln Alessandra Mele Energy-efficient Renovation lenge the horse and the veteran to for Blue Star Equiculture Libby Lukas Wins in Norfolk County build trust in each other, problem-solve, Lighting upgrades, funded through and become a real team in order to After winning the Norfolk County National Grid’s Small Business Energy Judging contest and placing third in the succeed. Efficiency Program, have been comWindrush is thrilled to be able to pleted at Blue Star Equiculture, Palmer. Hippology contest, Libby Lukas, of develop and offer such a hands-on healPlainville, will be representing her The renovated horse barn is equipped ing experience for veterans and their county as a member of the Junior with MaxLite LED lamps and fixtures, Hippology and Junior Judging Teams at families. and the facility now benefits from n Holly Jacobson the 4-H Massachusetts State Horse upgraded electrical wiring, which Round-Up, which will be held in means staff work in a space that’s safer Dream Girl Succumbs to Injuries Sturbridge and Spencer on April 18 and brighter even as energy costs Dream Girl, owned and ridden by Indra and 19. decrease. Rapinchuk-Souccar, of Cummington, Libby says she appreciates the sup“Before the upgrade, we were lightdied February 4 following a rotational port of the riding instructors at Anne ing some of the barn with old one-hunfall on cross-country at the Full Gallop Benson Stables, in Portsmouth, Rhode dred-watt incandescent bulbs, and that Farm Horse Trial in Aiken, South Island, as well as from her family and just wasn’t adequate,” says Blue Star’s Carolina. Indra and Dream Girl were friends. Libby’s passion, nurtured Paul Moshimer, who oversees the daycompeting in the preliminary division under Linda Murray and Kate to-day operations of the farm and its when they fell. On-site veterinarians Schneider Prabhakar at Happy Trails 4equipment. “We were forever changing determined that the 17-year-old H Club, makes her and her teammates bulbs because they were always burning Canadian Warmblood died immediclear contenders. out. We tried installing some halogen ately. Indra, 16, broke her femur and She’s also found success in the lights, thinking that would improve the show ring on her family’s Morgan horse underwent surgery. situation, but those were expensive and Saddle Horse Report

Barn and Indoor Arena Collapses

April/May 2015

Berkshire HorseWorks Secures Nonprofit Status In an effort to provide Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association (EAGALA), Model Equine Assisted Learning (EAL), and Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) to a greater number of those in need in Berkshire County and neighboring cities, Berkshire HorseWorks, of Pittsfield, applied for, and received, the nonprofit 501(c)3 designation. Hayley Sumner, founder and executive director, launched the organization in 2013 as a for-profit. Since its inception, BHW has been treating atrisk youths, veterans, families, individuals, and couples with a broad range of challenges, such as anxiety, PTSD, bullying, and eating disorders. BHW, in sessions with clients, uses rescue horses that are either retired from racing, injured, traumatized, or otherwise handicapped. In addition, BHW partners with local and national organizations to strengthen their workforces through team building and personal wellness initiatives. “I’m a cancer survivor and horse lover,” says Hayley, “and I’ve witnessed the pervasiveness and potentially life-

threatening impact of drug use, depression, and PTSD in this community. This is what drove me to start this venture. Even though it was financially challenging, I felt I had no choice. We work with disconnected families, traumatized adolescents, and brave soldiers as they reintegrate into family life, the workplace, and the community. Their ability to pay for these services is irrelevant.” For more information on how to get involved or to make a donation, visit www.berkshirehorseworks.com or contact Hayley, at (310) 488-9777.

n Alessandra Mele

Derby Day Charity 5K Ironstone Farm, in Andover, gears up for its second annual Ironstone Derby Road Race and Kentucky Derby Party on May 2, the day of the first leg of the Triple Crown. The Ironstone Derby raises money for the nonprofit Challenge Unlimited. The race, whose starting time is 4 p.m., takes place at the Lowell Spinners Stadium. The afternoon also features a stickhorse derby: Children decorate and race their own stick horses on the field. (The stick horses are theirs to keep.)

Runners and walkers receive T-shirts. After the Derby Road Race, enjoy an all-you-can-eat barbecue — steak tips, ribs, chicken, hot dogs, and more — and watch the Kentucky Derby live on the left-field Jumbotron. Still hungry? Concessions will be open during the party. Please register at www.ironstone.org.

n Holly Jacobson

Harry Sebring Inducted into AMHA Hall of Fame Congratulations to Harry Sebring, owner of Sebring Stables in Hancock, on his induction into the American Morgan Horse Association Hall of Fame. Harry’s achievements were recognized during the AMHA’s Annual Awards Gala and Convention, held February 27 and 28 in Minneapolis. He was the only horseman inducted into the hall of fame this year, and the Morgan community is in agreement that it’s a well-deserved honor. A professional horseman for almost 40 years, Harry is highly respected by his colleagues. He defines professionalism, service, and volunteerism within the Morgan industry, and all displayed in his own inimitable style.

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Massachusetts Horse

Blood Hoax Life is anything but predictable on the Beckmere Farm that Ike Cherny manages. And to top it oﬀ, Tuleigh McKenna, the girl he’s about to marry, disappears. e sole item she left behind is the GPS she depended upon to get her to clients from Maine to Long Island. Can Ike follow all 43 of her saved destinations and pick up a clue of Tuleigh’s whereabouts?

Fame & Deceit As a protagonist, Ike Cherny is not easy to love at first. He’s the type of man mothers warn their daughters about. Good looking, arrogant and as much a stud as the stallions he profiles. But as he strives to turn the blue blooded horses on his employer’s stud farm into world class show horses while his stable of two-legged fillies keep on handing him problems, we begin to feel for him.

In addition to being a full-time trainer, Harry has served in various capacities in his affiliation with the AMHA (currently, he’s the president). As a registered Morgan judge, he’s judged most of the major shows across the country. In 2008, Harry received the Bill Robinson Harness Trophy, at the USEF Pegasus Awards, for outstanding achievement in the harness arena. Most recently, he was honored by the UPHA and earned the Richard E. Lavery Professional Horseman’s Award, in recognition of his abilities and sportsmanlike conduct, attitude, and assistance to his fellow horsemen. Harry has been hands-on throughout his career. Whether it’s training, showing, or sharing his vast knowledge, he’s been a true ambassador to the Morgan breed. Since 1989, he and his family have owned and operated Sebring Stables, a premier facility for Morgans in the Berkshires.

n Alessandra Mele and Suzy Lucine

Peace Haven HorseMindShip Adult Day Classes at Peace Haven Farm, in Plainfield, take place on weekends May through October. For these classes, students leave their egos at the gate and 30

April/May 2015

put the horses first. Instructor R. J. Sadowski acknowledges the uniqueness of each student and crafts an empowering and safe experience for all. The three levels are for people of various equine backgrounds, ages, and belief systems. “We find commonality through connection with the horse,” says R.J. “In each class, R.J. is devoted to helping all of us connect with our horses,” says Derk Gardner. “He’s an accomplished horseman and rider. His methods of teaching are both accessible and profound.” To learn more, visit www.peacehavenfarm.com.

AMHA Woman of the Year Cindy Mugnier, of Fox Meadow Farm in Belchertown, was recently named the 2014 AMHA Woman of the Year. The award was presented during the AMHA Convention, held February 27 and 28 in Minneapolis. Morgans have always been part of Cindy's life; she says there hasn’t been a single day in her life without a one. Throughout her childhood, the horses were her friends, playmates, mode of transportation, 4-H projects, and show partners. Love of the breed led her to change careers, from teaching high school to opening her own stable. When she decided it was time to give back to the breed, she joined the AMHA Board of Directors for Region 1, a position she holds today, and served three terms as AMHA president. A tireless worker, supporter, and volunteer, Cindy’s contributions are admired throughout our community. Whether she’s mentoring aspiring trainers, teaching young riders, volunteering with a youth group, serving on the AMHA board, judging a show, or presenting as a speaker or clinician, her patience, dedication, and professionalism always shine through. Congratulations, Cindy.

n Suzy Lucine

Midnight Morgans An American Morgan Horse Association group meets at Whispering Oak Farm, in Dighton, on the last Thursday of every month. “The Midnight Morgans group is a cross between the Girl Scouts and a Pony Club,” says Danielle Mendoza, the club leader. “Members work on moving up five levels and earn a badge from the AMHA for each. All are welcome to join, whether or not they have a horse.”

To learn more, call Danielle, at (508) 958-9192.

Therapeutic Equestrian Center The Therapeutic Equestrian Center (TEC), in Holyoke, will once again be one of the agencies that benefit from Future Begins Here, which will take place at the Ingleside Mall on May 3. The gala will feature a gourmet dinner, a silent/live auction, and music by Eric Bascom and Blue. TEC is a 501(c)(3) private, nonprofit organization dedicated to providing physical, learning, and recreational therapeutic horseback-riding lessons. TEC designed its classes to enhance the physical, emotional, and social wellbeing of children and adults with special needs. Its riders develop strength, flexibility, and confidence while on horseback. For tickets and sponsorship opportunities, visit www.futurebeginshere.org. To donate an item to the auction or to find out more, email us: info@equestriantherapy.org.

Heidi Kunkel Earns NEMHA Hall of Fame Honor Heidi Kunkel, of HK Morgans in Webster, has been inducted into the New England Morgan Horse Association (NEMHA) Hall of Fame. Heidi has been a generous sponsor of NEMHA and its regional championship show; she served on the board of directors for many years, and chaired the awards ceremony and convention during her tenure. She has donated stallion services to many fund-raisers, but it’s perhaps her personal devotion to the horse that’s most meaningful. In addition to her Morgans, Heidi has rescued 19 Miniature horses and ponies. Congratulations, Heidi, for this greatly deserved honor.

n Suzy Lucine

Overherdisms • “Hey, your horse bit my horse!” • “You don’t have to look pretty; you just have to get around.” • “When I grow up, I want to be a teenager.” • “It’s getting to where she doesn’t scare me when she rides that horse.” • “I’m having a midlife crisis. So I bought a horse.”

Partners who made it all happen. The 26th Annual Meeting and Banquet was held January 24 at the Lenox Club. Sixty members enjoyed the cozy setting on yet another snowy night, with a warm fire in the fireplace and lovely table decorations by Kelly Casella. At the brief

Barre Riding and Driving Club

Directors and a fun-loving driver of Norwegian Fjords, passed away unexpectedly on January 31. He was a good friend to the club and to the sport of carriage driving, and he will be missed. There are two special upcoming events. First, the CCDS Spring Seminar, led by

Challenge — all the fun of many trails and the chance to take on the famous Jack in the Box and Snakes in the Pit. For details, contact Diane, at (413) 527-9532, or visitwww.granbyregionalhorse.org. The Spring Trail Ride will take place May 17 (rain date: May 24) at the Montague Plains. Come and enjoy the beautiful trails, followed by a delicious lunch with great company. The annual Open Horse Show is June 21, at Dufresne Park, Granby; save the date! 7Jennifer Moreau

Alessandra Mele

The BRDC is preparing for another busy show and trailriding season. We plan to add training clinics and events throughout the year, so keep informed through our website, www.barreridingdrivingclub.com, and our Facebook page. We offer BRDC Equiships to enthusiasts of all ages who’d like to advance their experience with horses. This year we’ll award a $200 Equiship to five applicants (you don’t have to own a horse) for camps, clinics, therapeutic-riding programs, or any other Hampshire County approved equine educaRiding Club tion program. Visit our The 48-acre HCRC website for an application, grounds, in the foothills which is due by June 1. of the Berkshires, just off For more info, contact Route 9 in Goshen, boast Denise Kellicker, at maeimage@gmail.com or Tanya Wheeler, 11, driving MTC Mahogany with passenger Kim Westby at the Hampshire two large rings situated in County Riding Club’s Open Show last year. Join the HCRC for its annual open show on a spacious grassy field. (508) 277-5671. Last year we held our first 7Denise Kellicker July 18. For a class list and to enter online, visit www.hampshirecountyridingclub.org. scavenger hunt, throughout business meeting, the new Jimmie Fairclough and Jeff the wooded trails. This year, slate of officers was elected: Morse, will be on Saturday, Colonial Carriage in addition to that wellHarvey Waller, president; Kay April 18, at Orleton Farm. and Driving Society received event, we’re planKonove, vice president; The topic is two-phase comCCDS members are always ning a woodland-trails Laurie Dahaher, vice presipetitions and the Super looking for ways to get obstacle course, whose grand dent; Tjasa Sprague, secreDerby. Then, the 17th together to celebrate caropening will be July 11, at Annual Orleton Farm riage driving, and on January tary; and Ann Willey, which point riders will be treasurer. A special award Combined Test and Pleasure 17, it was all about the hats! able to try it out. The official went to Marilee Wagner and Driving Show will be June 12 Mary Stokes Waller opened Woodland Trails Obstacle Carl Dudash for their outto 14. There’ll be dressage, her home to a group of Challenge will take place on standing service to the club. cones, a super derby, cargrateful ladies who put their August 15. Nine trail rides, riage racing, wagon rides, a We can always count on this millinery skills to work with two Wagon Wheel show of vintage automobiles, couple to help at meetings the beautiful feathers, netCampground weekends, and and carriage barn shops. and events throughout the ting, fabric, and ribbon that our annual horse show There are many opportuniyear. Mary provided. Old hats round out the calendar. ties for volunteers and sponThe evening concluded became new again, and new HCRC kicks off the seasors. For info on how to with the results of a very hats receive accessories to son on Sunday, April 12, with participate, visit entertaining and financially look even better. Can spring its annual Pancake Breakfast www.colonialcarriage.org. successful live auction condriving be far away? 7Kay Konove Ride on Worthington’s dirt ducted by dapper auctioneer Although the Winter — and possibly snowy — Glenn van Oort and his Classic Sleigh Rally took roads to the Red Bucket Granby Regional lovely assistant, Rikke Borge. place in less than ideal Sugar Shack. We look forHorse Council Many thanks for the donaweather conditions, the ward to a new location on Please join us for our season tions (and the people who horses and their intrepid May 17, when we ride from a kickoff at McDonald’s donated them) and to the drivers who came to Orleton member’s property into the Nature Preserve, in enthusiastic bidders. Farm, in Stockbridge, on Wilbraham, on Sunday, April Conway State Forest. The We have some very sad January 18 had a fine time. Chesterfield Gorge and 19 (rain date: April 26), for news: Ron Konove, a memKudos to the competitors, Indian Hollow will be our the Brown Bag Obstacle ber of the CCDS Board of volunteers, and spectators Massachusetts Horse

destination on June 7. Other rides will take us to the Montague Plains, the Northampton Meadows, the DAR State Forest, Northfield Mountain, and the farm fields of Hatfield. The informal trail rides are free for HCRC members and $10 for guests. Bring a trail lunch or relax with snacks following the ride. Save July 18 for the annual HCRC Open Horse Show. There will be 12 divisions, with day-end champion and reserve awards. To download a class list, to enter online, for a list of activities, and for membership information, visit www.hampshirecountyridingclub.org. 7Diane Merritt

Massachusetts Quarter Horse Association MassQHA is looking forward to some great events in 2015! The Spring Novice and Allbreed Open Show will be April 17 to 19 at the Three County Fairgrounds, in

Northampton. It will have award champions and reserve champions in 10 divisions and a $500 Versatility Challenge, open to all breeds and all ages. Come on out to the first show of the year! The MassQHA Annual Show will be May 7 to 10, also at the Three County Fairgrounds. New is the $500 Non-Pro Triple Challenge, which calls for a $50 entry fee for all three classes: Showmanship, Horsemanship, and Equitation. Payback will go through sixth place and the winner will receive a MassQHA Custom Triple Challenge Buckle. This event is open to all breeds and ages; exhibitors must be current members of our organization. Also new this year are the $200 Non-Pro Western Pleasure and the $200 NonPro Hunter Under Saddle classes. Abigail Antes, of Conway, qualified to compete in Youth Showmanship, Youth

A Bit of Riding at Canton Equestrian Center

A great place to learn everything equine! Horsemanship & Riding Lessons • Beginner to Advanced Balanced Seat/Hunt Seat • Private/Group • Ages 6-Adult Camp Programs • School Vacations and Summer • Ages 9+ February 16-20 • April 20-24 July 6-9 • July 20-23 • August 3-6 • August 17-20

Pony Rides • Pony Party Packages • Ages 3-10 Leasing • Many packages available! Norfolk County 4-H Ambassador’s Club • Ages 13-18 Indoor arena • two outdoor arenas

Join me for a bit of riding! Nora Reardon 617-875-0356 www.abitofriding.com 32

April/May 2015

Horsemanship, and Youth Trail for the 2014 Nutrena East American Quarter Horse Association Level 1 (Novice) Championship Show in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. She showed the American Quarter Horse RL Sudden Pursuit, a liver chestnut gelding owned by Elizabeth Antes. Eileen Reopel, of Hadley, earned 12th place in Amateur Ranch Horse Pleasure at the same show. She showed the American

Quarter Horse Howdy U Get Freckles, a sorrel gelding. Our next meeting will be April 4. For details, visit www.massqha.com. 7Emily Messing

Myopia Hunt It’s with mixed emotions that we’ll be saying good-bye to our huntsman, Brian Kiely; he’s going on to serve with the Potomac Hunt, in Maryland, in May. It’s a great honor for Brian to take over such a distinguished pack of

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2015 Adult Day Classes May - October 3 Level 1 Series - Sat. or Sun. 1 Level 2 Series - Saturdays Classes almost full - register now! Dates at peacehavenfarm.com

Have fun while learning: • Monthly All-day Classes (six rider maximum) • Student Trail Rides • New Obstacle Course • Private appointments at your farm or ours (children and adults)

Call R.J. or Paula for more information: (413) 634-8800 or (413) 335-7151 peacehavenhorsemindship@hotmail.com www.peacehavenfarm.com

hounds, and for that we’re extremely happy for him. On the other hand, we’ll miss him and his tremendous talent with our hounds. As you know, he completed three seasons here without the hounds rioting even once: a tremendous feat! Thank you also to Lindsey Taylor, who whipped-in very capably for us these last three years. We’re delighted to welcome as our new huntsman Phillip Headdon, who comes to us with many years of foxhunting experience. Phillip, who began whipping in to his father, in England, when he was 10 years old, has been a huntsman for almost 30 years, most recently with the Chagrin Valley Hunt, in Ohio. Before he came to the United States, Phillip was a huntsman in Canada, Italy, and England. He will be joined by his wife, Sue Laska. Let’s applaud Brian and wish him the best of luck, and give a warm welcome to Phillip and Sue. 7Kim Cutler, Ted Mehm, Nicholas White Masters of Fox Hounds

New England Equestrian Center of Athol NEECA, the 250-member organization and municipal equestrian park, met for its annual meeting in March. We

learned about trailer maintenance and repair from local expert Joe Safron. We also reviewed the successful 2014 season, and heard from this year’s event coordinators about their plans. Among other things, NEECA is implementing an equestrian book/magazine lending library for members and an adult/youth show-clothes swap closet. We began accepting items for both at the annual meeting, and will continue to do so throughout the season. We’re hoping to expand our youth membership program. Youth members get a fabulous T-shirt and a free subscription to Massachusetts Horse, and can earn points toward year-end awards for participation. They’ll also receive discounts at a number of places, such as the Cheshire Horse, and have free access to the new lending library and show-clothes closet. Last year was the premiere season for the very successful gymkhana series, and coordinator Frank Whitney has another year of games planned, beginning on April 26. The monthly gymkhanas are appropriate for riders and drivers of any experience level, and even for lead-line riders with energetic handlers. The second in the series will be May 17; the final event will be in October.

Another event is more fun than it sounds: On April 18, NEECA members and friends will gather at the park in Athol for Spring Cleanup Day, to fix any fence posts that have been pushed out of place by the snow, to clean up the fallen branches, and to generally open up the park for the season. We’ll grill burgers and share our winter stories, and there’s always lots of laughter as we work and socialize. Clinician Susan Harris will be at Windswept Farm, in Petersham, May 15 to 17. Susan’s Centered Riding clinics always sell out, and this one has too. But there’s a waiting list, and auditors are always welcome. Although we don’t yet have a date and location for this year’s Spring Trail Ride, we’re setting our sights sometime before the end of May. Watch the website for updates, and join us wherever (and whenever) we ride. May 31 will see the return of the Mule and Donkey Show. This year we’re organizing fun classes for everyone, from seasoned long-ear handlers to new owners of backyard donkeys. Spectators are welcome; it’s a fun (and often funny) event to attend. Volunteers are in demand for all NEECA events; do check us out! For a listing of all NEECA events,

Massachusetts Horse

JUNE 23 ~ 27 Northeast Benefit Show (508-759-9512)

JULY

413.584.2237 THREEcountyfair.com

10 ~ 12 KOF Dressage Days (kingoakfarm.com) 20 ~ 27 New England Morgan Show (nemha.com) 31 ~ 8/2 Regional 4-H Horse Show (mass4H.org)

AUGUST 5~9

Northampton Hunter/Jumper Show (biscuithillfarm.com)

4~7

Three County Fair (threecountyfair.com) Massachusetts State 4-H Show (mass4-H.org) Mass. Horsemen’s Council Days of Champions (mahorsecouncil.com)

APRIL 17 ~ 19 MaQHA Youth, Novice, and Open Show (massqha.com)

MAY 7 ~ 10

MaQHA Horse Show (massqha.com) 30 ~ 31 Connecticut Appaloosa Show (ctappaloosa.org)

SEPTEMBER 12 ~ 13 23 ~ 27

TRAIL RIDes, sHOw, OBsTACLes & sCAVenGeR HUnT (Members and nonmembers welcome!)

ApRIL 12 - Worthington Red Bucket Pancake Breakfast Ride MAY 17 - Conway State Forest Ride JUne 7 - Chesterﬁeld Gorge Ride JULY 11 - Woodland Obstacle Course Grand Opening and Open House JULY 18 - Open HORse sHOw (Members and nonmembers welcome!) Divisions include: Color Breed, Western Ranch Horse, Horse In Hand, Driving, Small Equine In Hand, Youngster In Hand, English Junior, English Adult, Western Pleasure, Green Horse Walk Trot or Jog, Walk Trot or Jog Ages 7 to 12, Walk Trot or Jog Ages 13 to Adult. Plus jumping classes and fun classes! Fenced-in warm-up arena, quiet and beautiful show grounds, and food vendor.

Full class list and enter online at hampshirecountyridingclub.org.

JULY 24 - 26 - Camping at Warwick Wagon Wheel Campground $500 ip rsh AUGUsT 9 - Montague Plains Ride Schoilgah school AUGUsT 15 - Woodland Trail Obstacle Challenge for h & college s senior dents! AUGUsT 29 - Northampton Meadows Full Moon Ride t su sepTeMBeR 11 - 13 - Camping at Warwick Wagon Wheel Campground sepTeMBeR 27 - DAR State Forest Ride OCTOBeR 4 - Northﬁeld Mountain Fall Foliage Ride OCTOBeR 17 - Scavenger Hunt and Woodland Obstacle Challenge nOVeMBeR 8 - Farm Fields of Hatfield Ride

www.HampshireCountyRidingClub.org

April/May 2015

regular updates, and volunteer info, please visit www.NEECA.org. 7Laurie Neely

Old North Bridge Hounds Anticipating the much awaited melting of the snow, ONBH has set its fixture card for this season’s hunts. Spring cubbing will kick off on Tuesday, April 14, with our inaugural hunt at Delaney, in Stow. Last fall ONBH rekindled the tradition of hunting from the grounds of the Historic Wayside Inn, in Sudbury, after a hiatus of more than 50 years, and on Saturday, April 18, we’ll once again hunt from the inn, followed by lunch in the historic Ford Room on our return. Reservations are required for the luncheon. ONBH hunts twice weekly, Tuesdays and most Saturdays through Memorial Day weekend. Our spring fixture card includes a joint meet with the Norfolk Hunt and hunts in Lincoln, Concord, Acton, Groton, Berlin, and elsewhere. The ONBH Hunter Pace Series will start on June 28 at Great Brook State Park, Carlisle. For the complete fixture card and upcoming events, visit www.oldnorthbridgehounds.org. It’s with great sadness that ONBH marks the loss of Kathy Wright. “Mother Fox,” as we all knew her, never missed a hunt. She logged thousands of miles laying the drag scent for hundreds of our hunts over the past several decades; waking up at the crack of dawn, she would coordinate the “foxes,” lay the drag, and rescue the occasional wayward hound. Kathy trained countless newbie “foxes” and worked closely with our huntsmen, and will be remembered for her wonderful attitude, warm smile, and the much appreciated libations and nibbles she provided — and served with great ceremony from the trunk of her car — to tired “foxes.” There will be a memorial for Kathy at our May 2 hunt in Concord, in one of her favorite places, the Pinegrove. Eternal thanks, Mama Fox, for all you gave. Your departure has left a hole in our hearts. You will be missed and remembered always. If you are interested in riding with us as a guest, would like to assist from the ground as a fox or assistant, or know that watching our hunt is a great experience, please contact our master and huntsman, Ginny Zukatynski, at (508) 751-3315. 7Susan Goldfischer

events Massachusetts

April 3 – 4 USEF “A” SHOW, Fieldstone Show Park, Halifax. www.showfieldstone.com. 3 – 4 MOUNTED POLICE DE-SPOOKING CLINIC and CONFIDENCE COURSE, Clover Creek Farm, Rochester. despookclinic@yahoo.com. 4 IHSA HUNT-SEAT ZONE 1 FINALS, Mount Holyoke College Equestrian Center, South Hadley. www.ihsainc.com. 4 RANCH HORSE AND REINER CLINIC, Clark Performance Horses, Winchendon. www.clark-performancehorses.com. 4 HRC EQUITATION CLINIC WITH NICOLE SOUZA, Balmy Acres, Middleboro. www.hansonridingclub.org.

12 HCRC RED BUCKET PANCAKE BREAKFAST RIDE, Worthington. (413) 268-3372 or www.hampshirecountyridingclub.org. 12 WNEPHA HUNTER SHOW, Biscuit Hill Farm, Shelburne Falls. www.wnepha.com. 12 WNEPHA DRESSAGE SHOW, Heritage Farm, Easthampton. www.wnepha.com. 12 USEF, MHC, NEHC, MHJ SHOW, Riverwind Farm, Pembroke. www.mahorsecouncil.com. 12 NEHC HUNTER SHOW, Biscuit Hill Farm, Shelburne. www.nehc.info. 12 COMBINED TEST, Plymouth. www.valinorfarm.biz.

4 ANNUAL CANDY-FREE EASTER EGG HUNT, Blue Rider Stables, South Egremont. www.bluerider.org.

12 HOLLIS-AREA EQUESTRIANS USED TACK SALE, Pepperell Community Center. (978) 4333120 or www.hollisareaequestrians.org.

4 NEECA VACCINE AND COGGINS CLINIC, Dr. Robert Schmidt, Orange. www.neeca.org.

12 HORSE POWER HUNTER/JUMPER SHOW, Southbridge. www.wildairefarm.com.

5 WINTER SCHOOLING SERIES, Grafton. www.hillside-meadows.com.

12 PANCAKE BREAKFAST HUNTER PACE, Spencer. www.campmarshall.net.

10 – 12 NORTHEAST REINING SHOW, West Springfield. www.nerha.com.

14 OLD NORTH BRIDGE HOUNDS HUNT, Stow. www.oldnorthbridgehounds.org.

11 MHC-, NEHC-RATED HUNTER/JUMPER SHOW, Medway. www.saddlerowe.com.

15 CCDS MEETING, www.colonialcarriage.org.

11 CATHY DRUMM WESTERN DRESSAGE CLINIC, Spring Willow Farm, Mendon. www.cathydrumm.com. 11 COMBINED TEST, Stoneleigh-Burnham School, Greenfield. www.sbschool.org. 11 VERA KESSELS-BARISONE CLINIC, Tall Oaks Farm, Millis. www.jodipearsonkeating.com. 11 BSTRA TRAIL WORK DAY, West Hill Dam, Uxbridge. www.bstra.org. 11 – 12 MICHAEL PAGE JUMPING CLINIC, Dracut. www.cutterfarm.com. 11 – 12 LARRY POULIN DRESSAGE CLINIC, Rochester. www.dressageatfairfieldfarm.com. 11 – 12 DANIEL STEWART “PRESSURE-PROOF YOUR RIDING” CLINIC, Heritage Farm, Easthampton. www.farmheritage.com. 12 GOLD COOLER JUMPER SERIES FINALS, Mount Holyoke College Equestrian Center, South Hadley. www.mtholyoke.edu.

15 HCRC MEETING, location TBA. www.hampshirecountyridingclub.org. 15 – 18 UPHA CHAPTER 14 SPRING PREMIERE, West Springfield. www.uphaonline.com. 17 TACK AUCTION, 6 P.M., Dudley-Gendron Post, Sutton. www.theponyexpress.net. 17 – 19 AQHA NOVICE AND OPEN BREED SHOW, Northampton. www.massqha.com. 18 CCDS SPRING SEMINAR, Orleton Farm, Stockbridge. www.colonialcarriage.org. 18 BSTRA TRAIL WORK DAY, Douglas. www.bstra.org. 18 CATHY DRUMM WESTERN DRESSAGE CLINIC, Dry Brook Stables, Bernardston. www.cathydrumm.com. 18 OLD NORTH BRIDGE HOUNDS HUNT, Sudbury. www.oldnorthbridgehounds.org. 18 CAPE COD HUNTER SHOW, Raynham. www.capecodhunter.com.

12 WINTER SCHOOLING SERIES, Grafton. www.hillside-meadows.com.

18 MHC HUNTER SHOW, Haverhill. www.ridecornerstone.com.

12 HRC TACK SALE, Balmy Acres, Middleboro. www.hansonridingclub.org.

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

12 HUNTER/JUMPER SHOW, Byfield. www.evenstrideltd.com.

18 – 19 STATE 4-H ROUND-UP, Spencer. www.mass4H.org.

12 BSTRA TRAIL WORK DAY, West Hill Dam, Uxbridge. www.bstra.org.

19 MHC, NEHC, MHJ, SEHA HUNTER/JUMPER SHOW, Pembroke. www.herringbrookfarm.com.

Schooling Series presented by Grazing Fields Farm & Palmer River Equestrian Center

Hunter SerieS CLASSES FoR LEAd LINE . PLEASuRE WALk-TRoT . SHoRT STIRRuP 2' ANd 2'6" HuNTERS ANd EquITATIoN

May 17 . June 28 . August 30 September 27 . october 25 at Grazing Fields Farm 201 Bournedale Road Buzzards Bay, MA (508) 759-3763 mel@grazingfields.com

May 31 . July 19 September 13 . october 4 at Palmer River Equestrian Center 173 Pine St., Rehoboth, MA (508) 252-6347 prec173@comcast.net

Afternoon

Jumper SerieS at Grazing Fields Farm GRouNd PoLES To 3'

May 23 (Sat.) . June 13 (Sat.) July 2 (Thurs.) . August 13 (Thurs.) September 12 (Sat.) ALL SHoWS CouNT ToWARd SouTH CoAST SERIES HIGH-PoINT AWARdS! Class lists and entry forms at Grazingfields.com and palmerriver.com. Join the South Coast Series Horse Shows Facebook Group for the latests news and updates.

Massachusetts Horse

19 SCHOOLING HORSE TRIALS, Plymouth. www.valinorfarm.biz.

25 VERSATILITY SERIES, Ten Broeck Farm, Pepperell. www.tenbroeckfarm.net.

26 HORSE POWER HUNTER/JUMPER SHOW, Southbridge. www.wildairefarm.com.

19 WNEPHA HUNTER SHOW, Undermountain Farm, Lenox. www.wnepha.com.

25 SUNRISE PLEASURE OPEN SHOW, Mount Holyoke College Equestrian Center, South Hadley. www.mtholyok.edu.

26 DRESSAGE SCHOOLING SHOW, Belchertown. www.independencestablellc.com.

19 TWO-PHASE, Course Brook Farm, Sherborn. www.coursebrookfarm.com. 19 4-H FITTING AND SHOWMANSHIP CLINIC, Camp Marshall, Spencer. www.mass4H.org. 19 WNEPHA DRESSAGE SHOW, Mount Holyoke College Equestrian Center, South Hadley. www.wnepha.com. 19 HUNTER SHOW, Haverhill. www.ridecornerstone.com. 19 LHOA NEHT RIDE, Great Brook Farm, Carlisle. alawrence44@hotmail.com. 19 JUMPER SHOW, Byfield. www.evernstrideltd.com. 19 GRHC BROWN-BAG OBSTACLE CHALLENGE, McDonald’s Nature Preserve, Wilbraham. www.granbyregionalhorse.org.

25 TEAM SORTING, Chipaway Stables, Acushnet. www.chipawaystables.com. 25 HRC PARADE AND VERSATILITY CLINIC, Thankful Hearts Farm, East Bridgewater. www.hansonridingclub.org.

26 BENEFIT SCHOOLING GYMKHANA, Lanesboro. www.equustherapeutic.org. 26 HUNTER/JUMPER SHOW, Essex. Castle Neck Farm. (978) 768-7998. 26 WNEPHA HUNTER SHOW, Bellwether Stables, Hancock. www.wnepha.com.

25 SHOW SEASON TACK AND RIDING APPAREL SALE, Gaits of Heaven Farm, Templeton. (978) 632-3604.

26 WNEPHA DRESSAGE SHOW, Heritage Farm, Easthampton. www.wnepha.com.

25 ONBH and NORFOLK HUNT JOINT MEET. www.oldnorthbridgehounds.org.

26 BEO TAG AND TACK SALE, Belchertown. www.belchertownequineorg.com.

25 CATHY DRUM CLINIC, Carrier’s Farm, Southampton. www.cathydrumm.com.

26 NEECA GYMKHANA, Athol. www.neeca.org.

25 SEHA SHOW, Rozena’s Field, Raynham. www.southeasthunter.com.

26 DRESSAGE SCHOOLING SHOW, New Braintree. www.whitesprucefarms.com.

25 – 26 CMHSS, Spencer. www.cmhss.net.

29 OLD NORTH BRIDGE HOUNDS HUNT, Stow. www.oldnorthbridgehounds.org.

19 SCHOOLING TWO-PHASE AND DRESSAGE SHOW, Dracut. www.cutterfarm.com.

25 – 26 ADULT DRESSAGE CAMP, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. www.crdressage.org.

21 OLD NORTH BRIDGE HOUNDS HUNT, Lincoln. www.oldnorthbridgehounds.org.

25 – 26 SMARTPAK RETAIL STORE SPRING SALE, Natick. www.smartpak.com.

30 GRAND GALLOPING MORGANS YOUTH GROUP MEETING, Dighton. All are welcome. 6 P.M. www.grand-view-farm.com.

24 – 26 ADRIENNE IORIO EVENTING CLINIC, Millis. www.appleknoll.com.

26 OPEN SHOW, Journey’s Haven Riding School, Rehoboth. www.journeyshavenrs.com.

25 ECTA EQUINE EXPO AND PARAPHERNALIA SALE, Topsfield. www.ectaonline.org.

26 SCHOOLING DRESSAGE SHOW, Beland Stables, Lakeville. www.belandstables.com.

25 BSTRA PARK SERVE DAY, Douglas. www.bstra.org.

26 GFF SHOW I, Buzzards Bay. www.grazingfields.com.

Western Massachusetts Appaloosa Association Open Show Series May 10 . June 21 . septeMber 27 westField Fairgrounds . 8:30 a.M. start • Something for everyone! • An open show and a hunter show on each date. • Nine open show divisions including new Ranch Horse • Ten hunter divisions • Day-end awards for all divsions

Prize list and information at www.WesternMaApp.com MassAppy@verizon.net

April/May 2015

30 – May 3 IHSA NATIONALS, West Springfield. www.ihsainc.com.

May 1 – 3 CONRAD SCHUMACHER CLINIC, Ashby. www.carouseldressagehorses.com. 2 DRESSAGE AND TWO-PHASE, Groveland. www.plumgroveequestrian.com.

2 IRONSTONE CHARITY RUN AND DERBY, Lowell. www.ironstonefarm.org.

3 AMERIKHANA, Chipaway Stables, Acushnet. www.chipawaystables.com.

2 WNEPHA HUNTER SHOW, StoneleighBurnham School, Greenfield. www.wnepha.com.

3 GFF SHOW II, Buzzards Bay. www.grazingfields.com.

2 OLD NORTH BRIDGE HOUNDS HUNT, Concord. www.oldnorthbridgehounds.org.

3 DRESSAGE SCHOOLING SHOW, Briggs Stable, Hanover. www.heritage-dressage.org.

2 TEAM SORTING, Chipaway Stables, Acushnet. www.chipawaystables.com.

3 ADULT EQUESTRIAN YOGA WORKSHOP, Blue Rider Stables, Egremont. www.bluerider.org.

2 CAPE COD HUNTER SHOW, Raynham. www.capecodhunter.com.

3 CCDA CASUAL DRESSAGE SHOW, West Barnstable. www.capecoddressage.org.

2 EQUESTRIAN FASHION SHOW, Ashby. www.nancylaterdressagehorses.com.

3 WNEPHA HUNTER SHOW, Muddy Brook Farm, Amherst. www.wnepha.com.

2 WESTON-WAYLAND OPEN SPRING SHOW, Weston. westonshows@yahoo.com.

3 BARREL RACING, Barre. (978) 660-7548.

HORSE POWER SHOWS HUNTER/JUMPER SHOWS Inviting courses . Open practice rounds all day Great mileage divisions for all ages & fence heights April 12 . April 26 . May 3 . May 17 . June 7 June 28 . July 12 . July 26 . Aug. 9 . Sept. 13 Sept. 27 . Oct. 25 . Nov. 1 . Nov. 8

DRESSAGE SHOWS Intro to 4th Level . English and Western May 24 . May 31 . July 19 . August 23

5 OLD NORTH BRIDGE HOUNDS HUNT, Acton. www.oldnorthbridgehounds.org.

2 – 3 DOM SCHRAMM EVENTING CLINIC, Millis.www.appleknoll.com.

7 – 10 MASSQHA ANNUAL SPRING SHOW, Northampton. www.massqha.com.

2 – 4 LEE SMITH HORSEMANSHIP CLINIC, Thankful Hearts Farm, East Bridgewater. www.leesmithdiamonds.com 3 RIDE CRITIQUE DRESSAGE SHOW, Xenophon Farm, Montague. (413) 367-9828. 3 WESTON DRESSAGE AND TWO-PHASE EVENT, Weston. westonshows@yahoo.com. 3 HORSE POWER HUNTER/JUMPER SHOW, Southbridge. www.wildairefarm.com. 3 BSTRA SPRING HUNTER PACE, Douglas. www.bstra.org.

HORSE TRIALS Pre-Elementary, Elementary, Beginner Novice, Novice May 10 . June 14 . July 5 . Aug. 16 . Sept. 20

7 SCHOOLING JUMPER SHOW, Plymouth. www.valinorfarm.biz.

Prize lists and entry forms at wildairefarm.com!

8 – 10 HUDSON VALLEY ARABIAN SHOW, West Springfield. www.hvaha.org.

Wild Aire Farm

9 BRDC SPRING TRAIL RIDE, Felton Field, Barre. www.barreridingdrivingclub.com.

wildairefarm.com . (508) 765-0641 926 Dennison Dr., Southbridge, MA

9 CUMMINGTON MUSTANGS OPEN SHOW, Goshen. www.cummingtonmustangs.webs.com.

Minutes off I84, MA Pike, Rtes. 20, 9, 290, 146, 395.

9 TEAM PENNING, Chipaway Stables, Acushnet. www.chipawaystables.com.

3 RRDC OPEN SHOW, Rowley. www.rowleyridinganddrivingclub.webs.com.

9 OLD NORTH BRIDGE HOUNDS HUNT, Westminster. www.oldnorthbridgehounds.org.

Cummington Mustangs 4-H Club Open Show Saturday, May 9 (rain date May 10) . 140 Ball Road, Goshen, Mass. Ring 1 Judge: Jo-ann Rae

Ring 1B and Outside Course Judge: Melissa Lalli

Alessandra Mele

12 Divisions with Day-end Awards

Walk Trot or Jog Ages 7 to 12

English Junior

Western Ranch Horse

Junior/Senior Equitation Classic

Showmanship . Halter Suitability . Trail Equitation . Pleasure

Halter Suitability . Horsemanship . Trail Handiness . Pleasure

Mother’s Day Lead Line

Walk Trot or Jog Ages 13 and Over

English Adult

Youngster In Hand

Showmanship . Halter Suitability . Trail Equitation . Pleasure

Showmanship . Halter Suitability Obstacle . Rail Performance

Green Horse Walk Trot or Jog

Color Breed

Small Equine In Hand

Showmanship . Halter Suitability . Trail Equitation . Pleasure

Showmanship . H. Suitability . Obstacle . Command Hunter Over Fences . Jumper Over Fences

Horse in Hand

Western Pleasure

Driving Single

Showmanship . Halter Suitability Obstacle . Rail Performance

Showmanship . Halter Suitability . Trail Equitation . Pleasure

Pleasure Turnout . Reinsmanship Pleasure Working . Super Reinsmanship

Walk Trot Ground Poles Novice Cross Rails Hunt Seat Equitation 2' Fences

cummingtonmustangs@msn.com . (413) 628- 0152

Class list and enter online at CummingtonMustangs.webs.com! Massachusetts Horse

9 HUNTER/JUMPER SHOW, Medway. www.saddlerowe.com.

14 SCHOOLING JUMPER SHOW, Plymouth. www.valinorfarm.biz.

9 – 10 NEDA SPRING DRESSAGE SHOW, Marshfield. www.neda.org.

15 TIM HAYES HORSEMANSHIP CLINIC, Richmond. www.berkshirehorseworks.org.

9 – 10 SPRING HORSE TRIALS, King Oak Farm, Southampton. www.kingoakfarm.com.

15 – 17 SUSAN HARRIS CLINIC, Windswept Farm, Petersham. www.neeca.org.

9 WNEPHA HUNTER SHOW, Biscuit Hill Farm, Shelburne. www.wnepha.com.

15 – 17 ADRIENNE IORIO EVENTING CLINIC, Millis. www.appleknoll.com.

10 HORSE POWER HORSE TRIALS, Southbridge. www.wildairefarm.com.

16 TIM HAYES HORSEMANSHIP CLINIC, Berkshire Equestrian Center, Richmond. Hayley at (310) 488-9777.

10 NSHA HUNTER SHOW, Georgetown. www.nsha.org. 10 WNEPHA HUNTER SHOW, White Horse Hill, Richmond. www.wnepha.com. 10 MIKE VAQUERO WESTERN DRESSAGE CLINIC, Raynham. www.vaquerotrainingcenter.com. 10 HUNTER PACE, Camp Marshall, Spencer. www.campmarshall.net. 10 USEF, NEHC, MHC, MHJ HUNTER/JUMPER SHOW, Pembroke. www.riverwindfarm.com. 10 WMAA OPEN SHOW, Westfield. www.westernmaapp.com. 11 IDA DRESSAGE SHOW, Johnson and Wales University, Rehoboth. www.jwu.edu. 12 OLD NORTH BRIDGE HOUNDS HUNT, Stow. www.oldnorthbridgehounds.org. 13 – 17 FIELDSTONE SPRING FESTIVAL, Halifax. www.showfieldstone.com.

April/May 2015

16 CATHY DRUMM WESTERN DRESSAGE CLINIC, Dry Brook Stables, Bernardston. www.cathydrumm.com. 16 TEAM SORTING, Chipaway Stables, Acushnet. www.chipawaystables.com. 16 OLD NORTH BRIDGE HOUNDS HUNT, Concord. www.oldnorthbridgehounds.org. 16 SCHOOLING EVENT, Greenfield. www.sbschool.org. 16 – 17 CMHSS, Spencer. www.cmhss.net. 17 OPEN SHOW, Journey’s Haven Riding School, Rehoboth. www.journeyshavenrs.com. 17 AMERIKHANA, Chipaway Stables, Acushnet. www.chipawaystables.com. 17 PAT CONNORS HORSEMANSHIP CLINIC, Grafton. www.hillside-meadows.com. 17 HORSE POWER HUNTER/JUMPER SHOW, Southbridge. www.wildairefarm.com.

White Spruce Farms

17 BSTRA SCAVENTER HUNT, Upton. www.bstra.org. 17 AMAZING GRACE EQUINE NEHT RIDE, Carver. (508) 287-4077.

Where Learning to Ride is Fun!

17 HCRC CONWAY STATE FORST RIDE. www.hampshirecountyridingclub.org.

Dressage Lessons . Clinics . Schooling Shows . Camp Programs

17 CCRR COWBOY CHALLENGE, South Yarmouth. www.capecodroughriders.net. 17 DRESSAGE SCHOOLING SHOW, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. www.crdressage.org. 17 WNEPHA DRESSAGE SHOW, Blythewood Stables, Pittsfield. www.wnepha.com. 17 WRC CHESTER TRAIL RIDE, Dayville Boat Launch, Chester. www.westfieldridingclub.org.

Dressage Schooling Shows

Summer Camps

April 26 - TBA June 14 - Nancy Young August 30 - TBA October 18 - Elaine Johnson

June 29 - July 3 July 6 - 10

Adults-only Schooling Shows

17 HRC OPEN SHOW, Briggs Stable, Hanover. www.hansonridingclub.org.

(Raising money for children's lesson scholarship fund.)

August 16 - Susan Rainville September 13 - TBA

17 IEA ZONE 1 WESTERN FINALS, Ten Broeck Farm, Pepperell. www.rideiea.org.

Come join the fun! Bring your own horse or ride one of our wonderful horses. Year-end awards for both show series.

17 GROTON PONY CLUB THREE-PHASE, Groton. www.groton.ponyclub.org.

Scholarship Program Students who have been with White Spruce Farms for a minimum of one year are eligible for our scholarship program. The program offers 26 riding lessons to ensure students are able to ride a minimum of one week. Students who earn the scholarship are required to pay for the ohter 26 rides during the year. Camp scholarships also available. The Adult Only Schooling Shows ared fund raisers for this program.

Susan Rainville, USDF bronze and silver medalist Visit www.whitesprucefarms.com or ďŹ nd us on Facebook . (978) 257-4666

17 MHC HUNTER SHOW, Haverhill. www.ridecornerstone.com. 17 MYOPIA HUNT SPRING HUNTER PACE, Hamilton. www.myopiahunt.org. 17 SOUTH COAST HUNTER SHOW, Buzzards Bay. www.grazingfields.com 17 GRHC SPRING TRAIL RIDE, Montague Plains. www.granbyregionalhorse.org.

25 Forest Lane, Millis, MA ~ (508) 376-2564 Adrienne iorio eventing Clinics

Summer Jumper Show Series

Charles river Dressage Association

April 24-26 . May 15-17

June 17 & 27 . July 8, 15, 22 & 29 August 5, 12, 19 & 26 . September 2 & 9

Adult Camp April 25-26 dressage Show Series: May 17 . June 21 . August 2 . october 4

JH eventing Boot Camp

$20 per class. Inside warm-up starts at 3:30; classes start at 4:30. outside warm-up starts at 4; classes start at 2' 3" at 5. Ribbons 1st to 6th, prizes for first.

April 19-23

Dom Schramm eventing Clinic May 2-3

Schooling Horse trials Championships August 30

May 24 . June 28 . July 19 . August 23 For more information, visit www.nemha.org.

poker run June 7 Marked trail course over 300 acres with optional cross country jumps. Five stations to pick up a card, best poker hand wins! Ribbons 1st to 8th.

prize lists and entry forms at:

new england miniature Horse Society Shows

norfolk Hunt pony Club Camp August 10-14

For more information, visit www.crdressage.org.

new england Dressage Association fall Symposium with robert Dover october 17-18 For more information, visit www.neda.org.

Halloween Hunter pace october 25 Marked trail course over 300 acres with optional cross country jumps. Ribbons for optimum time and best costume.

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

17 NORFOLK HUNT JUNIOR MEET, Dover. www.norfolkhunt.com. 19 OLD NORTH BRIDGE HOUNDS HUNT, Groton. www.oldnorthbridgehounds.org. 22 – 24 AHCC ARABIAN SHOW, West Springfield. www.ahcofct.org. 22 – 24 BEO CAMPOUT AND TRAIL RIDE, Warwick. www.belchertownequineorg.com. 22 – 25 GREATER BOSTON CHARITY HORSE SHOW, Topsfield. www.greaterbostoncharityhorseshow.com Presents the 20th

Equine Expo Paraphernalia Sale

23 4-H AND BEGINNER ADULT SHOW, Stony B Acres, Bernardston. barbb611@yahoo.com. 23 TEAM PENNING, Chipaway Stables, Acushnet. www.chipawaystables.com. 23 SOUTH COAST JUMPER SHOW, Buzzards Bay. www.grazingfields.com.

Saturday, April 25, 2015 . 9-3

23 VERSATILITY SERIES, Ten Broeck Farm, Pepperell. www.tenbroeckfarm.net.

Large marketplace of new and used items! Plus services for the horse, rider, and driver.

23 CATHY DRUMM WESTERN DRESSAGE CLINIC, It’s a Pleasure Training, Orange. www.cathydrumm.com.

Demonstrations All Day . $5 Admission Held in the indoor arena at the Topsfield Fairgrounds, Route 1, Topsfield Vendor Spaces Available . Free Parking

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

23 OLD NORTH BRIDGE HOUNDS HUNT, Berlin. www.oldnorthbridgehounds.org. 23 TWO-PHASE, Sherborn. www.coursebrookfarm.com. 23 – 24 NORFOLK HUNT SHOW, Medfield. www.norfolkhunt.com. 23 – 25 BSTRA MEMORIAL DAY CAMP -OUT, Carver. www.bstra.org.

NEW MID-WEEK DATE!

July 1–2, 2015

2015 GAIG/USDF Qualifier ‘S’ Judges: Scott Peterson and Lois Yukins Excellent GGT-Footing

23 – 25 JOHN ENSIGN HORSEMANSHIP CLINIC, Heritage Farm, Easthampton. www.farmheritage.com. 24 HORSE POWER DRESSAGE SHOW, Southbridge. www.wildairefarm.com. 24 BARREL RACING, Grafton. (978) 660-7548 or tinadixson@gmail.com. 24 DRESSAGE COMPETITION, Beland Stables, Lakeville. www.belandstables.com. 24 NEMHS SHOW, Millis. www.nemhs.org. 24 CCRR OPEN SHOW, South Yarmouth. www.capecodroughriders.net. 24 WNEPHA HUNTER SHOW, Overmeade Farm, Lenox. www.wnepha.com. 25 TALLY-HO 4-H AND OPEN SHOW, South Hadley. (413) 658-8736. 25 STEPHIE BAER CROSS-COUNTRY CLINIC, Sherborn. www.coursebrookfarm.com. 25 OLD NORTH BRIDGE HOUNDS HUNT, Concord. www.oldnorthbridgehounds.org. 25 NORFOLK HUNT DERBY CROSS, Medfield. www.norfolkhunt.com. 29 – June 2 GREG ELIEL HORSEMANSHIP CLINIC, Apple Lane Farm, Lancaster. (508) 932-7674 or aguinard@bunkshere.com. 30 SNECDA ADT, White Oak Stables, Lancaster. www.snecda.org. 30 HRC HORSEMANSHIP CLINIC WITH TOM O’NEIL, Balmy Acres, Middleboro. www.hansonridingclub.org.

neHC-affiliated & neHC medal Qualifiers April 25 Summer Show August 9 Breast Cancer Benefit Show october 17 Enjoy the amazing Mount Holyoke College Equestrian Center. Reputable and carded judges. Food booth on site. Year-end awards in all divisions PLuS special award categories! Affordable day rates and chances to win back $$ in the JackPot classes.

Contact kelli for more information at kellimarie43@yahoo.com or (413) 695-8343 40

April/May 2015

30 SEHA SHOW, Rozena’s Field, Raynham. www.southeasthunter.com.

31 SOUTH COAST HUNTER SHOW, Rehoboth. www.palmerriver.com.

30 TEAM SORTING, Chipaway Stables, Acushnet. www.chipawaystables.com.

31 NORFOLK HUNT HUNTER PACE, Medfield. www.norfolkhunt.com.

30 NORFOLK HUNT FOXHUNTING CLINIC, Medfield. www.norfolkhunt.com.

31 OPEN HORSE SHOW SERIES, Azrael Acres, Uxbridge. www.azraelacres.com.

30 CAHTY DRUMM CLINIC, Carrier’s Farm, Southampton. www.cathydrumm.com.

June

30 TWO-PHASE AND DRESSAGE SCHOOLING SHOW, Hamilton. www.grotonhousefarm.com.

3 – 6 CONNECTICUT MORGAN SHOW, West Springfield. www.ctmorgans.org.

30 – 31 CONNECTICUT APPALOOSA SHOW, Northampton. www.ctappaloosa.org.

5 YOUNG HORSE SHOW, Ten Broeck Farm, Pepperell. www.younghorseshow.com.

31 GFF SHOW III, Buzzards Bay. www.grazingfields.com.

6 USEF, NEHS, MHC, MHJ HUNTER/JUMPER SHOW, Pembroke. www.riverwindfarm.com.

31 WRC OPEN SHOW, Westfield. www.westfieldridingclub.org.

6 TEAM PENNING, Chipaway Stables, Acushnet. www.chipawaystables.com.

31 HRC TRAIL RIDE, Myles Standish, Carver. www.hansonridingclub.org.

6 NEECA FUN DAY, Athol. www.neeca.org.

31 MHC NEHC “C” HUNTER SHOW, Ipswich. www.backbayfarm.com. 31 WNEPHA DRESSAGE SHOW, Xenophon Farm, Montague. www.wnepha.com. 31 BARREL RACING, Chipaway Stables, Acushnet. www.chipawaystables.com. 31 WNEPHA HUNTER SHOW, Harmony Hill Farm, Great Barrington. www.wnepha.com. 31 NEECA MULE AND DONKEY SHOW, Athol. www.neeca.org. 31 HORSE POWER DRESSAGE SHOW, Southbridge. www.wildairefarm.com.

Serious Riding in a Relaxed Atmosphere May 3 . June 21 . october 4 Sheriff’s Youth Ranch 1445 Osterville-West Barnstable Road West Barnstable, MA

6 – 7 DRESSAGE SPORTHORSE SHOW, Pepperell. www.tenbroeckfarm.net. 7 RIDE FOR THE RIBBON, Felton Field, Barre. www.maridefortheribbon.dojiggy.com. 7 AMERIKHANA, Chipaway Stables, Acushnet. www.chipawaystables.com. 7 GFF SHOW IV, Buzzards Bay. www.grazingfields.com. 7 HORSE TRIALS SERIES, Azrael Acres, Uxbridge. www.azraelacres.com. 7 MHC HUNTER SHOW, Haverhill. www.ridecornerstone.com.

Cape Cod Dressage Association presents

Always Rated Judges Intro through Fourth Level Western and Eventing Dressage Tests High Score of the Day Awards for both Senior and Junior New year-end awards! Casual attire, no braiding, relaxed and positive atmosphere

More information and entry forms at:

CapeCodDressage.org

Briggs Stable

83 Annual th

Mini Shows

June Show

Wednesday evenings starting at 6:30 P.M. June 24 to August 26

Saturday • June 13

Lead Line . Therapeutic . Walk Trot . Games Jumping . Equitation . Pleasure

Outside Course Warm-ups 6:30 to 8 A .M. Trailer Parking Starts at 6 A .M.

Great food and drinks available at the Hanover Hunt & Riding Club food booth.

Briggs Stable • Route 139, Hanover Centre, MA

Briggs Stable • 623 Hanover St., Hanover Centre, MA (781) 826-3191

Affiliated with NEHC, MHC, and SSHC MHC, NEHC, and SSHC Medal Classes

Class lists may be downloaded at www.briggsstable.com.

Show Manager: John Dougherty (781) 826-3191 Program may be downloaded at www.briggsstable.com.

All members of the Hanover Hunt & Riding Club are eligible for year-end awards.

Visit Briggs Tack Shop, a full service shop, while at the show! Massachusetts Horse

Dressage and Combined Training Show Series May 3 ~ Ride Critique* Judge Suzanne Mente

May 31 ~ Dressage and CT Judge TBD

June 28 ~ Dressage and CT Judge Lainey Johnson

August 1 ~ Dressage and CT Judge Bill McMullin (Clinic August 2)

September 27 ~ Dressage and CT Judge Kathi Bruce *The Ride Critique Show’s initial scores will count toward year-end awards.

7 POKER RUN, Millis. www.appleknoll.com. 7 BENEFIT RIDE-A-THON, Lanesboro. www.equustherapeutic.org. 7 HORSE POWER HUNTER/JUMPER SHOW, Southbridge. www.wildairefarm.com. 7 GREENLOCK BAND BASH FUNDRAISER,Rehoboth. www.greenlock.org. 7 POKER RUN, Millis. www.appleknoll.com. 7 WNEPHA HUNTER SHOW, Biscuit Hill Farm, Shelburne. www.wnepha.com. 7 HCRC CHESTERFIELD GORGE RIDE. www.hampshirecountyridingclub.org. 7 HORSES HELPING HORSES SPRING TRAIL RIDE, Carlisle. www.mspca.org/nevins. 11 – 14 LUCINDA GREEN EVENTING CLINIC, Hamilton. www.ledyardfarm.com. 12 – 14 CCDS COMBINED TEST AND PLEASURE SHOW, Stockbridge. www.colonialcarriage.org. 13 SOUTH COAST JUMPER SHOW, Buzzards Bay. www.grazingfields.com. 13 HHRC 83RD ANNUAL JUNE SHOW, Briggs Stable, Hanover. www.briggsstable.com. 13 TEAM SORTING, Chipaway Stables, Acushnet. www.chipawaystables.com.

Clinic August 2 Bill McMullin . “r” Judge, Silver Medalist (Show Saturday, Clinic Sunday)

13 NEECA EQUESTRIAN SHOWCASE, Athol. www.neeca.org. 13 CAPE COD HUNTER SHOW, Raynham. www.capecodhunter.com.

14 WRC OCTOBER MOUNTAIN RIDE, Becket. www.westfieldridingclub.org. 14 BSTRA NATIONAL TRAIL DAY, Oxford. www.bstra.org. 14 WNEPHA HUNTER SHOW, White Horse HIll, Richmond. www.wnepha.com. 14 BEO TRAIL RIDE, Harvard State Forest, Petersham. www.belchertownequineorg.com. 14 NSHA EQUITATION/JUMPER SHOW, Byfield. www.northshorehorsemens.org. 14 DRESSAGE SCHOOLING SHOW, New Braintree. www.whitesprucefarms.com. 14 HORSE POWER HORSE TRIALS, Southbridge. www.wildairefarm.com. 14 NEECA GYMKHANA, Athol. www.neeca.org. 14 SCHOOLING DRESSAGE SHOW, Beland Stables, Lakeville. www.belandstables.com. 16 FIELDSTONE EQUITATION SHOW, Halifax. www.showfieldstone.com. 17 SUMMER JUMPER SHOW, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. www.appleknoll.com. 17 – 21 PLYMOUTH ROCK HUNTER JUMPER, Halifax. www.showfieldstone.com. 19 – 21 NEFHC CLASSIC HORSE SHOW, Topsfield. www.nefhc.com. 20 TEAM PENNING, Chipaway Stables, Acushnet. www.chipawaystables.com. 20 VOLO FARM OPEN HOUSE, Westford. www.volofarm.com. 20 – 21 CMHSS, Spencer. www.cmhss.net.

Stalls Available

Yes you can!

Stalls available in the 16-stall barn with attached indoor arena. Nestled at the base of Mt Toby this “Massachusetts Horse Farm of Distinction” provides outstanding care for you and your horse. Call or email for details.

Xenophon Farm janice

elaine

April/May 2015

21 CCRR OPEN SHOW, South Yarmouth. www.capecodroughriders.net. 21 AMERIKHANA, Chipaway Stables, Acushnet. www.chipawaystables.com. 21 WNEPHA HUNTER SHOW, Riverbank Farm, Dalton. www.wnepha.com. 21 GHF SUMMER CLASSIC, Hamilton. www.grotonhousefarm.com. 21 THREE-PHASE, Course Brook Farm, Sherborn. www.coursebrookfarm.com 21 WMAA OPEN SHOW, Westfield. www.westernmaapp.com.

See what we’re all about.

Join us on the trail!

21 NORTH RIVER PONY CLUB RALLY, Briggs Stable, Hanover. (871) 878-8877 or www.southeastern.ponyclub.org. 21 CCDA CASUAL DRESSAGE SHOW, West Barnstable. www.capecoddressage.org.

Check our website for 2015 rides.

Kachavos

80 sunderland rd., rte. 47 montague, mass. 413.367.9828 X enophon F arm @ aol . com

21 NSHA HUNTER SHOW, Georgetown. www.nsha.org.

New rides added often!

www.ECTRA.org Eastern Competitive Trail Ride Assoc.

21 BRDC SCHOLARSHIP SHOW, Felton Field, Barre. www.barreridingdrivingclub.com. 21 HRC TRAIL RIDE, Myles Standish, Carver. www.hansonridingclub.org. 21 BARREL RACING, Athol. (978) 660-7548 or tinadixson@gmail.com. 21 GRHC OPEN SHOW, Dufresne Park, Granby. www.granbyregionalhorse.org. 21 DRESSAGE SCHOOLING SHOW, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. www.crdressage.org.

New England Equestrian Center of Athol’s

Equestrian Showcase June 13 .

Saturday, 9 A.M.

FREE ADMISSION!

Extreme Versatility Contest

Drill Team Competition

Youth Mustang Demonstration

9 A.M. Limited to 25 entries. $50 entry fee. $1,000 cash prizes! Enter at www.neeca.org.

afternoon $1,000 in cash prizes!

Watch 2014 youth trainers and Mustangs — see the progress they’ve made and what they are doing now!

All drill teams invited. All ages, disciplines, and abilities. Four rider minimum per team. Quadrilles, Short Programs, Freestyles, Theme Drills.

Tack & Collectible Silent Auction

Tack & Equipment Vendors Stallion Parade noon

Great Food!

MIG Equine

Vendor Space and Stallion Parade openings and information on contest, competition, and demonstrations: Contact Peter at (978) 652-2231

Upcoming Equestrian Center Events All take place at the Equestrian Center unless otherwise noted.

Gymkhana Series Sundays April 26 . June 14 July 12 . August 9 September 20 . October 18 Frank Whitney (978) 833-2634 freeway3289@gmail.com

Mule & Donkey Show May 31 Laurie Neely at li1wing@verizon.net

Fun Day! Susan Harris Clinic

June 6

May 15 to 17 Windswept Farm, Petersham

Horse Show

Daily Groundwork Sessions Balance and Body Awareness Clinic is full. Auditors welcome! $5 NEECA members, $10 non members Caroline Mansfield (978) 249-2813 brycarmansfield@aol.com

Wannabe Cowboy Challenge

July 19 Felton Field, Barre

Picnic in the Park September 12 A Timed Versatility Event

Althea Bramhall (978) 249-3188

Peter Whitmore (978) 652-2231

Fall Pleasure Ride October 4 Lake Dennison, Winchendon Ann Marie Fisher (978) 314-6553

Fall Social November 7 Athol-Orange Elks Club, Orange Kathy D’Orto (978) 249-2279

New England Equestrian Center, 660 New Sherborn Rd., Athol

Go to www.neeca.org for all the details! Massachusetts Horse

21 NEW ENGLAND STOCK HORSE SHOW, Easthampton. www.farmheritage.com.

28 DRESSAGE SCHOOLING SHOW, Briggs Stable, Hanover. www.heritage-dressage.org.

21 SCHOOLING TWO-PHASE AND DRESSAGE SHOW, Dracut. www.cutterfarm.com.

28 OPEN SHOW, Journey’s Haven Riding School, Rehoboth. www.journeyshavenrs.com.

23 – 27 NORTHEAST BENEFIT SHOW, Northampton. (508) 759-9512 or www.northeastbenefithorseshow.com.

28 SOUTH COAST HUNTER SHOW, Buzzards Bay. www.grazingfields.com.

24 MINI SHOW, Hanover. www.briggsstable.com.

28 DRESSAGE AND COMBINED TRAINING, Xenophon Farm, Montague. (413) 367-9828.

25 – 27 ARABIAN SHOW, West Springfield. www.thebige.com.

28 OPEN BUCKLE SHOW, Middleboro. www.balmyacres.com.

26 HUNTER SHOW, Pembroke. www.riverwindfarm.com.

28 HORSE POWER HUNTER/JUMPER SHOW, Southbridge. www.wildairefarm.com.

26 – 28 GHF HORSE TRIALS, Hamilton. www.grotonhousefarm.com.

28 ONBH HUNTER PACE, Great Brook State Park, Carlisle. www.oldnorthbridgehounds.org.

27 SUMMER JUMPER SHOW, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. www.appleknoll.com.

28 OPEN HORSE SHOW SERIES, Azrael Acres, Uxbridge. www.azraelacres.com.

27 FRANKLIN COUNTY 4-H SHOW, Greenfield Fairgrounds. www.mass4H.org.

28 GRHC OPEN SHOW, Granby. www.granbyregionalhorse.org.

27 – 28 NORTH STAR PRO RODEO, Marshfield. www.northstar-farm.com.

July

27 – 28 WINDSWEPT FARMS I & II, Petersham. suemckeown@charter.net or (978) 459-9209.

1 MINI SHOW, Hanover. www.briggsstable.com.

28 MHC-, NEHC-RATED SHOW, Medway. www.saddlerowe.com. 28 WNEPHA HUNTER SHOW, Bonnie Lea Farm, Williamstown. www.wnepha.com. 28 WNEPHA DRESSAGE SHOW, King Oak Farm, Southampton. www.wnepha.com. 28 SCHOOLING HORSE TRIALS, King Oak Farm, Southampton. www.kingoakfarm.com.

Orion Farm

MASSAchuSettS . FlOridA

eStABliShed 1988

e W he r Are Stars Born!

1 – 2 DRESSAGE SHOW, Mount Holyoke College, South Hadley. www.mhcriding.com. 2 HRC OPEN SHOW, Briggs Stable, Hanover. www.hansonridingclub.org. 2 SOUTH COAST JUMPER SHOW, Buzzards Bay. www.grazingfields.com. 3 – 5 BSTRA CAMP OUT, Douglas. www.bstra.org.

Subscribe Today!

at mahorse.com

If you want to be the best, you have to train with the best! local to national champions, we can help you reach all of your riding goals. All levels of lessons available for ages 4 and up, plus adults. Quality horses and ponies for sale or lease. Boarding, training, and showing.

S. Hadley . (413) 532-9753 . www.OrionFarm.net 44

April/May 2015

Barre Riding and Driving Club Barre Horse Show Series June 21 • BRDC Scholarship Show July 19 • N.E. Equestrian Center of Athol Show August 2 • Central New England Equine Rescue Show August 16 • Apple Valley Pony Club Show All shows begin at 9 A.M. Divisions: Lead Line . Walk Trot 11 and Under . Walk Trot 12 to 17 Walk Trot Adult . Green Horse Walk Trot Walk Trot Beginning Canter . Open Junior English Open Western . Open English Short Stirrup . Open Hunter . Modified Hunter Contact: Jill Poulin, show secretary, barnesj4@yahoo.com. Visit barreridingdrivingclub.com for more information!

Trail Rides May 9 • Spring Trail Ride 13 and 20 mile rides. Felton Field, Barre

October 10 and 11 • Annual Fall Trail Ride 13, 15, and 20 mile rides. Felton Field, Barre Great trails, NEHT affiliated, home cooked meals, camping available, entertainment, abundant parking, water, public rest rooms. Contact: Margo Petracone (978) 621-9812 • westwindfm@aol.com

BRDC Equi-ships BRDC Equi-ships are offered to horse enthusiasts of all ages who wish to advance their experience with horses. BRDC is offering five $200 Equi-ships in 2015 to applicants who wish to attend camps, clinics, therapeutic riding programs, or any other approved equine education program. You do not need to own a horse. Applications are at barreridingdrivingclub.com and are due by June 1, 2015. For more info, contact Denise Kellicker at maeimage@gmail.com or (508) 277-5671.

Information about more fun and informative events at:

barreridingdrivingclub.com Massachusetts Horse

4 TEAM SORTING, Chipaway Stables, Acushnet. www.chipawaystables.com. 5 HORSE POWER HORSE TRIALS, Southbridge. www.wildairefarm.com. 5 AMERIKHANA, Chipaway Stables, Acushnet. www.chipawaystables.com. 8 MINI SHOW, Hanover. www.briggsstable.com. 8 SUMMER JUMPER SHOW, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. www.appleknoll.com. 10 – 12 KOF DRESSAGE DAYS, Northampton. www.kingoakfar.com. 11 TEAM PENNING, Chipaway Stables, Acushnet. www.chipawaystables.com. 11 WARM-UP TO THE FAIR SUMMER SHOW, Blandford. kellimarie43@yahoo.com. 11 HCRC WOODLAND OBSTACLE COURSE GRAND OPENING AND OPEN HOUSE, Goshen. www.hampshirecountyridingclub.org.

12 BSTRA POKER RUN, Holliston. www.bstra.org. 12 HORSE TRIALS SERIES, Azrael Acres, Uxbridge. www.azraelacres.com. 12 NEDA SUMMER SHOW, Twisdenwood Farm, Georgetown. www.neda.org. 12 NEECA GYMKHANA, Athol. www.neeca.org. 14 REGION SIX AQHA SHOW, West Springfield. www.massqha.com. 15 MINI SHOW, Hanover. www.briggsstable.com. 15 SUMMER JUMPER SHOW, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. www.appleknoll.com. 15 HCRC MEETING, location TBA. www.hampshirecountyridingclub.org. 18 TEAM SORTING, Chipaway Stables, Acushnet. www.chipawaystables.com. 18 MHC-, NEHC-RATED SHOW, Medway. www.saddlerowe.com.

12 SCHOOLING DRESSAGE SHOW, Beland Stables, Lakeville. www.belandstables.com.

18 HCRC OPEN SHOW, Goshen. www.hampshirecountyridingclub.org.

12 WRC BECKET LAND TRUST RIDE. www.westfieldridingclub.org.

19 HORSE POWER DRESSAGE SHOW, Southbridge. www.wildairefarm.com.

12 MHC HUNTER SHOW, Haverhill. www.ridecornerstone.com.

19 OPEN HORSE SHOW SERIES, Azrael Acres, Uxbridge. www.azraelacres.com.

12 HORSE POWER HUNTER/JUMPER SHOW, Southbridge. www.wildairefarm.com.

19 CCRR OPEN SHOW, South Yarmouth. www.capecodroughriders.net.

12 4-H FITTING AND SHOWMANSHIP CLINIC, Canton. www.cantonequestrian.com.

19 SOUTH COAST HUNTER SHOW, Rehoboth. www.palmerriver.com.

12 BARREL RACING, Chipaway Stables, Acushnet. www.chipawaystables.com.

19 SCHOOLING TWO-PHASE AND DRESSAGE SHOW, Dracut. www.cutterfarm.com.

19 NEECA OPEN SHOW, Felton Field, Barre. www.barreridingdrivingclub.com. 19 GFF MEDAL DAY I, Buzzards Bay. www.grazingfields.com. 20 – 24 HEAD OF THE BAY CLASSIC I, Buzzards Bay. www.grazingfields.com. 20 – 27 NEW ENGLAND MORGAN SHOW, Northampton. www.nemha.com. 22 MINI SHOW, Hanover. www.briggsstable.com. 22 SUMMER JUMPER SHOW, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. www.appleknoll.com. 24 – 26 HCRC CAMPOUT, Warwick. www.hampshirecountyridingclub.org. 25 TEAM PENNING, Chipaway Stables, Acushnet. www.chipawaystables.com. 25 HOTB EQUITATION DAY, Buzzards Bay. www.grazingfields.com. 25 BSTRA VERSATILITY AND PLEASURE RIDE, Spencer. www.bstra.org. 26 HORSE POWER HUNTER/JUMPER SHOW, Southbridge. www.wildairefarm.com. 26 NSHA EQUITATION/JUMPER SHOW, location TBA. www.northshorehorsemens.org. 26 OPEN SHOW, Journey’s Haven Riding School, Rehoboth. www.journeyshavenrs.com. 26 CCDS FUN DAY, Orleton Farm, Stockbridge. www.colonialcarriage.org. 26 WNEPHA HUNTER SHOW, Biscuit Hill Farm, Shelburne. www.wnepha.com.

Six Special Classics Equine Journal Pleasure Classic Two Town Trotters 4-H Fit & Show Classic Tough-E Nuf Stables Walk Trot Classic Holiday Acres Hunter Challenge Classic CEO Stables Equitation Classic Camp Marshall Gambler’s Choice Classic

TWO HUNT RINGS, ONE OPEN RING

Four Medal Classes MHJ Short Stirrup . MHJ Mini Medal MHJ Adult Mini Medal . MHJ Children’s Medal

CMHSS 2015 SHOW DATES Jumpers and Games moved to Saturday nights! DIVISIONS WITH DAY-END AWARDS 4-H Adult Walk Trot Beginner Walk Trot Beginner WTC Children’s Equitation Children’s Hunter Green Horse Hunter Green Horse Open Green Horse Open WT Lead Line Med./Long Stirrup Hunter Miniature Horse

OTTB Open Adult Open Hunter Open Junior Open X-Rails Pet Pony Pre Children’s Equitation Pre Children’s Hunter Quarter Horse Senior Horse Short Stirrup Equitation Short Stirrup Hunter

Trot Poles Walk Trot 11 & Under Hunter Walk Trot 11 & Under Open Walk Trot 12 -17

New Saturday Divisions: Games Open Games Walk Trot Miniature Horse Games 2’, 2’3”, 2’6”, 2’9”, 3’, and 3’3” Jumpers

A great YEAR END AWARDS BANQUET with additional banquet awards, including a $100 leading trainer award.

SATURDAY & SUNDAY, April 25 & 26 Judges: Mary Charette & Charles Ethier

SATURDAY & SUNDAY, May 16 & 17 Judges: Bonnie Robinson & Camille Pepin

SATURDAY & SUNDAY June 20 & 21 Judges: Skip Billingham & Amy Rader Frick

SATURDAY 7 SUNDAY, August 29 & 30 Judges: Alison Ward & Karol Bennet

SATURDAY & SUNDAY, September 26 & 27 Judges: Karen von Bachelle & Jamie Cinq-Mars

For information or prize list, contact Will George at: wgeorge79@aol.com or 508-344-4424

www.cmhss.net

April/May 2015

27 – 30 HEAD OF THE BAY CLASSIC II, Buzzards Bay. www.grazingfields.com.

5 MINI SHOW, Hanover. www.briggsstable.com.

12 MINI SHOW, Hanover. www.briggsstable.com.

29 MINI SHOW, Hanover. www.briggsstable.com.

5 SUMMER JUMPER SHOW, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. www.appleknoll.com.

12 SUMMER JUMPER SHOW, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. www.appleknoll.com.

29 SUMMER JUMPER SHOW, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. www.appleknoll.com.

6 – 9 NORTHAMPTON HUNTER/JUMPER SHOW. www.biscuithillfarm.com.

12 – 15 MMHA SHOW, West Springfield. www.massmorgan.com.

31 – August 2 REGIONAL 4-H SHOW, Northampton. www.mass4H.org.

8 CAPE COD HUNTER SHOW, Raynham. www.capecodhunter.com.

12 – 16 SILVER OAK JUMPER TOURNAMENT, Halifax. www.showfieldstone.com.

August

8 TEAM PENNING, Chipaway Stables, Acushnet. www.chipawaystables.com.

13 SOUTH COAST JUMPER SHOW, Buzzards Bay. www.grazingfields.com.

1 MHC-, NEHC-RATED SHOW, Medway. www.saddlerowe.com.

8 COWBOY MOUNTED SHOOTING, Norfolk. www.masixshooters.com.

15 TEAM SORTING, Chipaway Stables, Acushnet. www.chipawaystables.com.

1 TEAM SORTING, Chipaway Stables, Acushnet. www.chipawaystables.com.

9 HORSE POWER HUNTER/JUMPER SHOW, Southbridge. www.wildairefarm.com.

15 CAPE COD HUNTER SHOW, Raynham. www.capecodhunter.com.

1 GFF MEDAL DAY II, Buzzards Bay. www.grazingfields.com.

9 NEECA GYMKHANA, Athol. www.neeca.org.

15 WOODLAND TRAIL OBSTACLE CHALLENGE, Goshen. www.hampshirecountyridingclub.org.

1 DRESSAGE AND COMBINED TRAINING, Xenophon Farm, Montague. (413) 367-9828. 2 BILL McMULLIN DRESSAGE CLINIC, Xenophon Farm, Montague. (413) 367-9828. 2 DRESSAGE SCHOOLING SHOW, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. www.crdressage.org. 2 CNEER OPEN SHOW, Felton Field, Barre. www.barreridingdrivingclub.com. 2 REHOBOTH BREED EXPO, Rehoboth. www.greenlock.org. 2 WRC BLANDFORD SKI AREA RIDE. www.westfieldridingclub.org. 3 – 4 ADS HORSE DRIVING TRIAL, Celtic Cross Farm, Dudley. www.celticcrossfarm.com.

9 HORSE TRIALS SERIES, Azrael Acres, Uxbridge. www.azraelacres.com. 9 SCHOOLING DRESSAGE SHOW, Beland Stables, Lakeville. www.belandstables.com. 9 4-H and HRC OPEN SHOW, Balmy Acres, Middleboro. www.hansonridingclub.org. 9 DRESSAGE SCHOOLING SHOW, Belchertown. www.independencestablellc.com. 9 AMERIKHANA, Chipaway Stables, Acushnet. www.chipawaystables.com. 9 HCRC MONTAGUE PLAINS RIDE. www.hampshirecountyridingclub.org. 9 SUNRISE PLEASURE OPEN SHOW, South Hadley. www.mhcriding.com.

16 DRESSAGE ADULT SCHOOLING SHOW, New Braintree. www.whitesprucefarms.com. 16 CCRR OPEN SHOW, South Yarmouth. www.capecodroughriders.net. 16 OPEN HORSE SHOW SERIES, Azrael Acres, Uxbridge. www.azraelacres.com. 16 HORSE POWER HORSE TRIALS, Southbridge. www.wildairefarm.com. 16 APPLE VALLEY PONY CLUB OPEN SHOW, Barre. www.barreridingdrivingclub.com. 16 GFF MEDAL DAY III, Buzzards Bay. www.grazingfields.com. 16 BSTRA DOMNARSKI FARM PLEASURE RIDE, Palmer. www.bstra.org.

Massachusetts Horse

16 MHC HUNTER SHOW, Haverhill. www.ridecornerstone.com.

29 HCRC FULL MOON RIDE, Northampton. www.hampshirecountyridingclub.org.

6 DRESSAGE AND TWO-PHASE, Groveland. www.plumgroveequestrian.com.

16 DRESSAGE SCHOOLING SHOW, Briggs Stable, Hanover. www.heritage-dressage.org.

29 – 30 CMHSS, Spencer. www.cmhss.net.

6 HUNTER PACE, Camp Marshall, Spencer. www.campmarshall.net.

17 FIELDSTONE EQUITATION SHOW, Halifax. www.showfieldstone.com. 18 – 22 SUMMER SHOWCASE II, Halifax. www.showfieldstone.com. 19 MINI SHOW, Hanover. www.briggsstable.com. 19 SUMMER JUMPER SHOW, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. www.appleknoll.com. 23 MHJ EQUITATION FINALS, Halifax. www.showfieldstone.com. 23 HORSE POWER DRESSAGE SHOW, Southbridge. www.wildairefarm.com. 23 SCHOOLING TWO-PHASE AND DRESSAGE SHOW, Dracut. www.cutterfarm.com. 26 CAPE COD HUNTER SHOW, Marston Mills. www.capecodhunter.com.

29 – 30 115th MYOPIA HORSE SHOW, Hamilton. www.myopiahunt.org. 30 BARREL RACING, Barre. (978) 660-7548. 30 SCHOOLING HORSE TRIALS CHAMPIONSHIPS, Millis. www.appleknoll.com. 30 SOUTH COAST HUNTER SHOW, Buzzards Bay. www.grazingfields.com 30 OPEN SHOW, Journey’s Haven Riding School, Rehoboth. www.journeyshavenrs.com. 30 DRESSAGE SCHOOLING SHOW, New Braintree. www.whitesprucefarms.com. 30 AMERIKHANA, Chipaway Stables, Acushnet. www.chipawaystables.com.

September

6 DRESSAGE COMPETITION, Beland Stables, Lakeville. www.belandstables.com. 6 MHC HUNTER SHOW, Haverhill. www.ridecornerstone.com. 9 SUMMER JUMPER SHOW, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. www.appleknoll.com. 11 – 13 HCRC CAMPOUT, Warwick. www.hampshirecountyridingclub.org. 12 LENOX TUB PARADE, Lenox. www.colonialcarriage.org. 12 SOUTH COAST JUMPER SHOW, Buzzards Bay. www.grazingfields.com. 12 NEECA WANNABE COWBOY CHALLENGE and picnic in the park, Athol. www.neeca.org. 12 TEAM PENNING, Chipaway Stables, Acushnet. www.chipawaystables.com.

26 MINI SHOW, Hanover. www.briggsstable.com.

2 SUMMER JUMPER SHOW, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. www.appleknoll.com.

26 SUMMER JUMPER SHOW, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. www.appleknoll.com.

4 – 7 BOB GOSSELIN MEMORIAL SHOWDEO, Acushnet. www.chipawaystables.com.

27 – 30 CRAA ARABIAN AND IFSHA REGION 1 CHAMPIONSHIP SHOW, West Springfield. www.orgsites.com/ct/connecticutriverarabian.

5 NORFOLK HUNT FOXHUNTING CLINIC, Medfield. www.norfolkhunt.com.

13 DRESSAGE ADULTS-ONLY SCHOOLING SHOW, White Spruce Farms, New Braintree. www.whitesprucefarms.com.

5 BLANDFORD FAIR HORSE SHOW, Blandford. kellimarie43@yahoo.com.

13 BARREL RACING, Grafton. (978) 660-7548 or tinadixson@gmail.com.

5 – 7 BSTRA CAMPOUT, Carver. www.bstra.org.

13 CCRR OPEN SHOW, South Yarmouth. www.capecodroughriders.net.

29 TEAM SORTING, Chipaway Stables, Acushnet. www.chipawaystables.com. 29 CAPE COD HUNTER SHOW, Raynham. www.capecodhunter.com.

6 HRC OPEN SHOW, Briggs Stable, Hanover. www.hansonridingclub.org.

12 – 13, STATE 4-H SHOW, Northampton. www.mass4H.org.

Rider Horsemanship Private Lesson Clinic May 1 & 3 . Stage road Farm, Guilford, Vt One-on-one coaching with Equine Behavior and Relationship Specialist, Caroline Rider

caroline’s teaching style employs the philosophies, training techniques, principles, and elements of classical dressage and the art of horsemanship. Balance, harmony, suppleness, rhythm, combined with clear, mindful and consistent communication (through aids) becomes the dialogue between horse and rider. e development of communication is foremost as it establishes a mutual understanding and cooperation between both. is cooperation allows both rider and horse to work conﬁdently together in balance, which in turn promotes harmony. rider horsemanship focuses on ﬁnesse,

not force, and the results are achieved more smoothly and easily than most riders could possibly imagine. caroline’s experience also encompasses the depth and complexities found within each discipline. From her experience she has been able to create a proven instructional training program that can assist with the following: • round penning techniques for deeper connection, trust, communication, and partnership • Problem-solving strategies • longeing and riding that promote proper muscling, balance, suppling, collection, and self-carriage • ree simple ground exercises to develop better trust, respect, partnership, and leadership

• e biomechanics of riding naturally in rhythm • riding with a balanced and independent Seat • Awareness and embodiment exercises to improve seat, hands, and legs • exercises that develop softening and acceptance of contact • Ground and riding patterns designed to improve arena work and/or trail riding • And much more! $405 per person . Auditors $25/day or $60/three days

For questions and/or details, contact Susie at (802) 380-1339 or sirene5@myfairpoint.net.

Riding as One in Mind, Body, and Soul EQUINE PERFORMANCE & BEHAVIOR TRAINING CENTER RIDERHORSEMANSHIP.COM . (240) 988-6058 48

April/May 2015

Contact your local Farm Family office: Carver (508) 866-9150

Norwood (781) 255-2002

Richard.Blair@farm-family.com

Francis_Bingham@farm-family.com

Centerville (508) 957-2125

South Deerfield (413) 665-8200

Mark.Sylvia@farm-family.com

T.Viles@farm-family.com

Easthampton (413) 203-5180

Southwick (413) 569-2307

Chad_Meyer@farm-family.com

themasonagency@farm-family.com

Great Barrington (413) 528-1710

Topsfield (978) 887-8304

Bob.Sinopoli@farm-family.com Dominic.Sinopoli@farm-family.com

Dale_Johnson@farm-family.com

Marlborough (508) 485-3800

Westford (978) 467-1001 Donald.Ludwig@farm-family.com

Martin_West@farm-family.com

Northborough (508) 393-9327 Dick_Simonian@farm-family.com Jeff.Pichierri@farm-family.com

Williamstown (413) 458-5584 MaureenOMara@farm-family.com

Worcester (508) 752-3300 Thomas_Carroll@farm-family.com

Massachusetts Horse

13 BSTRA BREEZY HILL BENEFIT RIDE, Holliston. www.bstra.org.

13 NORFOLK HUNT POLO IN THE COUNTRY, Medfield. www.norfolkhunt.com.

To make your horse the best as can be!

13 SOUTH COAST HUNTER SHOW, Rehoboth. www.palmerriver.com.

13 WRC OPEN SHOW, Westfield. www.westfieldridingclub.org.

Rehabilitation . Support . Prevention

13 HORSE POWER HUNTER/JUMPER SHOW, Southbridge. www.wildairefarm.com.

13 WNEPHA HUNTER SHOW, Biscuit Hill Farm, Shelburne. www.wnepha.com.

3 RRDC OPEN SHOW, Rowley. www.rowleyridinganddrivingclub.webs.com.

16 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 20 HUNTER/JUMPER and EQUITATION SHOW, West Springfield. www.thebige.com.

13 HORSE TRIALS SERIES, Azrael Acres, Uxbridge. www.azraelacres.com.

19 HRC FIESTA DAY, Balmy Acres, Middleboro. www.hansonridingclub.org.

13 MHC THE CLASSIC OPEN SHOW, Briggs Stable, Hanover. www.mahorsecouncil.com.

19 TEAM SORTING, Chipaway Stables, Acushnet. www.chipawaystables.com.

Equine Physical Therapy Equine Massage, Accupuncture and more . . . Lymphatic drainage Magnetic blanket Leach therapy Kinesiology taping Laser Stretching Passive and active RoM Scar treatment Manual therapy

Horse Wellness Katja Bredlau-Morich (617) 314-5768

horse-wellness.com

April/May 2015

Hand-crafted using high-quality materials and workmanship. Careful fitting for horse and rider. Custom quality leather goods: western saddles . purses . totes chaps . chinks . belts . halters . bridles reins . breast collars repairs . restoration dog collars & leashes Open most days, call ahead to be sure.

Blue Dog Leather

64 South Shore Dr., Orange, Mass. 978.544.2681

bluedogleather.com

19 MHC-, NEHC-RATED SHOW, Medway. www.saddlerowe.com.

Myopia Hunt

20 BSTRA FALL HUNTER PACE, Douglas. www.bstra.org.

Join us in 2015 for fox hunting and much more!

20 HORSE POWER HORSE TRIALS, Southbridge. www.wildairefarm.com. 20 NEECA GYMKHANA, Athol. www.neeca.org. 20 DRESSAGE SCHOOLING SHOW, Belchertown. www.independencestablellc.com. 20 AMERIKHANA, Chipaway Stables, Acushnet. www.chipawaystables.com. 20 WESTPORT HUNTER PACE, Westport. www.norfolkhunt.com. 20 HRC VERSATILITY, Balmy Acres, Middleboro. www.hansonridingclub.org.

Spring Roading begins end of April Spring Hunter Pace ~ May 17 Casual Summer Hound Exercises June - August

Formal Hunt Season begins September 19 Hunter Trials ~ October 4 Fall Hunter Pace ~ November 1

Myopia has many opportunities to participate, watch, and volunteer. For more information, please visit

20 WRC OTIS STATE FOREST RIDE. www.westfieldridingclub.org. 23 – 27 MHC DAYS OF CHAMPIONS, Northampton. www.mahorsecouncil.com.

115th Myopia Horse Show August 29 & 30

www.myopiahunt.org. We invite you to join us as we preserve the future through the traditions of the past.

24 – 27 SADDLEBREDS, HACKNEYS, MORGANS, FRIESIANS SHOW, West Springfield. www.thebige.com/fair/horseshow. 26 TEAM PENING, Chipaway Stables, Acushnet. www.chipawaystables.com. © Eric Schneider

26 LINCOLN HORSE SHOW, Weston Road, Lincoln. vlochiatto@verizon.net. 26 – 27 CMHSS, Spencer. www.cmhss.net. 27 DRESSAGE AND COMBINED TRAINING, Xenophon Farm, Montague. (413) 367-9828.

Western new england professional Horsemen’s Association’s

Hunter/Equitation Shows April 12 April 19 April 26 May 2 May 3 May 9 May 10 May 17 May 24 May 31 June 6 June 7

Biscuit Hill Farm undermountain Farm Bellwether Stables Stoneleigh-Burnham School Muddy Brook Farm Biscuit Hill Farm White Horse Hill Blythewood Stables overmeade Farm Harmony Hill Farm Stillwater Farm Biscuit Hill Farm

dressage Shows English and Western dressage classes. Tests offered for English include (uSEF): Introductory Tests A, B, C; Training Level Tests 1, 2, 3; First Level Test 1. Western Tests (WdAA): Introductory Level Tests 1, 2, 3, 4; Basic Level Tests 1, 2, 3, 4.

April 19 April 26 May 17 May 31 June 7

Mount Holyoke College Heritage Farm Stockade Polo Club Grounds Xenophon Farm Emerald Glen

Featuring year-end awards in many divisions. Full 2015 schedule can be found at:

wnepha.com

An organization for horsemen, by horsemen. Massachusetts Horse

27 SOUTH COAST HUNTER SHOW, Buzzards Bay. www.grazingfields.com.

27 HORSE POWER HUNTER/JUMPER SHOW, Southbridge. www.wildairefarm.com.

27 HCRC DAR STATE FOREST RIDE, Goshen. www.hampshirecountyridingclub.org.

September 24 - 27 Saddlebreds, Hackneys Morgans, Friesians

October 1 - 4 Draft Horse Show $35,000 Big E Draft Horse Showdown

September 16 - 20 Hunter/Jumpers Hunt Seat Equitation USHJA Zone 1 HOTY Finals ENTRIES CLOSE AUGUST 15, 2015 www.TheBigE.com/fair/horseshow

Massachusetts Horse Benefit Show Over $10,000 in prizes! 10 Classics! $200 Walk Trot/Jog Ultimate Pleasure $150 Walk Trot/Jog Equitation $150 Walk Trot/Jog Discipline Rail $200 English Ultimate Pleasure $150 English Equitation $150 Hunter Hack $200 Western Ultimate Pleasure $150 Western Equitation $150 Open Discipline Rail $150 Costume

October 3 Saturday 8 A.M. 140 Ball Road, Goshen, Mass. All proceeds go to the Bay State Equine Rescue.

10 Divisions Walk Trot/Jog Ages 7 to 12 Walk Trot/Jog Ages 13 & Over Green Horse Walk Trot/Jog Horse In Hand English Junior . English Adult Color Breed . Western Pleasure Western Ranch Horse Youngster In Hand

Class list & enter online at

mahorse.com Katie Upton . katieupton.com

April/May 2015

In the past ten years, $55,000 has been raised for Massachusetts nonprofit horse organizations!

the

neighborhood

Your Everything Equine “white pages”

4-H ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• MASSACHUSETTS 4-H PROGRAM (800) 374-4446 www.mass4H.org/programs/horses Horse 4-H clubs in the Bay State.

WESTERN MASSACHUSETTS APPALOOSA ASSOCIATION www.westernmaapp.homestead.com Regional ApHC club, open shows, regional show, trail ride points, awards banquet.

ASSOCIATIONS ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• BARRE RIDING AND DRIVING CLUB www.barreridingdrivingclub.com Central Massachusetts club providing equine activities and education.

WESTERN NEW ENGLAND PROFESSIONAL HORSEMEN’S ASSOCIATION www.wnepha.com Hunter/equitation and dressage shows; year-end awards.

BAY STATE TRAIL RIDERS ASSOC. Douglas, MA, (508) 476-3960 www.bstra.org Preserving trails, pleasure/competitive rides. CHARLES RIVER DRESSAGE ASSOC. www.crdressage.org Affordable, quality dressage schooling shows, clincis, and lectures. GRANBY REGIONAL HORSE COUNCIL Central & Western MA, (413) 527-9532 www.granbyregionalhorse.org Family-oriented trails, shows, clinics. HAMPSHIRE COUNTY RIDING CLUB Goshen, MA, (413) 268-3372 hampshirecounty ridingclub.org Monthly trail rides, open show, hunter pace, clinics, educational speakers. HANOVER HUNT AND RIDING CLUB www.briggsstable.com June show, mini shows, tack sales, and more with year-end awards banquet. MASSACHUSETTS HORSEMEN’S COUNCIL www.mahorsecouncil.com Scholarships, affiliated shows, year-end awards, horsemanship assistance fund. MASSACHUSETTS MORGAN HORSE ASSOCIATION www.massmorgan.com Annual show, trail ride, clinics, youth education, and annual banquet. MASSACHUSETTS QUARTER HORSE ASSOCIATION www.massqha.com To enjoy the American Quarter Horse in Massachusetts with shows, clinics, trail rides, banquet, and more. MYOPIA HUNT CLUB www.myopiahunt.org Established in 1882; meets in Hamilton, Ipswich, Topsfield, Essex, Rowley, Newbury, and West Newbury. NEW ENGLAND EQUESTRIAN CENTER OF ATHOL www.neeca.org Equestrian park for trail riding, showing, clinics, driving; available for rent. PEPPERELL HORSE OWNERS ASSOC. www.phoa.info Working to preserve and encourage equine activities in Pepperell.

WESTFIELD RIDING CLUB www.westfieldridingclub.org Founded in 1939; educational activities, shows, trail rides, and more. WEST NEWBURY RIDING AND DRIVING CLUB www.wnrdc.com Preserve and improve riding opportunities in West Newbury; shows, clinics, trail rides, eventing. BARN CATS ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• PAWS WATCH Newport, RI, (401) 848-9867 www.pawswatch.org Barn cats need homes! Healthy, fixed, vaccinated barn cats provide rodent control. Delivered! BARNS/BUILDINGS ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• THE CARRIAGE SHED White River Junction, VT, (800) 441-6057 www.carriageshed.com Barns, sheds, arenas, homes, garages. BEDDING/SHAVINGS/SAWDUST ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• PROGRESS PALLET Middleboro, MA, (508) 923-1930 www.progresspallet.com Animal bedding in trailer-load quantities. Call/email for details. CREMATION/CEMETERY SERVICES ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• ANGEL VIEW PET CEMETERY Middleboro, MA, (800) 287-0066 www.angelview.com Horses, ponies, pets. Transportation available to all of New England, 24/7. DRESSAGE ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• BRADFORD EQUESTRIAN CENTER Haverhill, MA, (978) 374-0008 Dressage for all disciplines and driving. Keith Angstadt USEF dressage judge. FAIRFIELD FARM Rochester, MA, (508) 763-8038 www.dressageatfairfieldfarm.com Boarding, instruction, training, indoor. MEG HILLY – USDF “L” JUDGE, INSTRUCTOR, FEI RIDER South Deerfield, MA, (802) 595-1258 www.meghilly.weebly.com mhilly@mtholyoke.edu Clinics; judging; private, semiprivate lessons.

MORNING LIGHT FARM Brimfield, MA, (413) 563-3477 morninglightfarm.net Boarding, training, clinics, indoor, trails.

CEDAR OAKS EQUINE RESCUE Plymouth, MA, (508) 728-9062 www.cedaroaksequinerescue.org Rescues and takes in horses in need.

NANCY LATER LAVOIE Ashby, MA, (561) 714-7447 www.nancylaterdressagehorses.com Training, lessons, clinics. Accepting new students of all levels. Top-class facility.

CENTRAL NEW ENGLAND EQUINE RESCUE Central Mass., (978) 621-6717 www.cneer.com Rescuing abused, abandoned, neglected horses; restoring to health and spirit.

WHITE SPRUCE FARMS New Braintree, MA, (978) 257-4666 www.whitesprucefarms.com Dressage shows, instruction, all levels/ages. XENOPHON FARM Montague, MA, (413) 367-9828 xenophonfarm@aol.com Dressage and combined-test schooling show series; year-end awards; clinics. EQUINE DENTISTRY ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• WENDY BRYANT, EQDT Northampton, MA, (413) 237-8887 www.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 www.nevds.com Licensed professional veterinary dentistry. Routine preventive care, maintenance, diagnostics, extractions. EQUINE ENTERTAINMENT ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• DALE PERKINS/MESA FARM Rutland, MA, (508) 886-6898 www.daleperkinshorseshow.com Trick riding and much more. EQUINE MASSAGE ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• HORSEBACK AND BODY Northampton, MA, (413) 320-7690 jobunny@comcast.net Massage therapy for horses, humans. KIT CAT PHOTO & ANIMAL MASSAGE Central Mass., (636) 459-5478 kitcatmassage@gmail.com Certified equine and canine massage. TOPLINE EQUINE MASSAGE Franklin, MA, (508) 254-7412 toplinemassage@yahoo.com Certified and insured. EQUINE RESCUES ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• BAY STATE EQUINE RESCUE Oakham, MA, (508) 882-3704 www.baystateequinerescue.org Providing for abused/neglected horses. BLUE STAR EQUICULTURE DRAFT HORSE SANCTUARY Palmer, MA, (413) 289-9787 www.equiculture.org Helping horses, humans, and Mother Earth. Horse rescue and sanctuary.

LUCKY HORSE EQUINE RESCUE Bolton, MA, (978) 293-6153 www.luckyhorse.org Dedicated to the care of all equines. NEVINS FARM, MSPCA Methuen, MA, (978) 687-7453 www.mspca.org Animal care and adoption center. NEW ENGLAND EQUINE RESCUE NORTH West Newbury, MA, www.neernorth.org mary.martin@neernorth.org Equine assistance in Massachusetts. EQUINE WELLNESS ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• BLUE RIBBON EQUINE Massachusetts (413) 325-5777 www.blueribbonequine.com Massage, laser, LED, animal communication, “Where does my horse hurt” body checkups. HORSE WELLNESS Waltham, MA, (617) 314-5768 www.horse-wellness.com Equine physiotherapist and acupuncturist certified in Germany; equine massage. EQUIPMENT ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• BACON’S EQUIPMENT Williamsburg, MA, (413) 268-3620 Kubota, Yanmar, Stihl, Husqvarna. Sales and repairs for more than 30 years. EVENTING ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• APPLE KNOLL FARM Millis, MA, (508) 376-2564 www.appleknoll.com Cross-country schooling, training, lessons, sales. GRAIN AND BAGGED FORAGE ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• BLUE SEAL FEED (866) 647-1212 www.blueseal.com Feeds, supplements, forages, pasture mix. TRIPLE CROWN FEED (800) 451-9916 www.triplecrownfeed.com Feeds, forages, supplements. HAFLINGERS ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• SOMMER HILL FARM Adams, MA, (413) 743-9301 sommerhaflingers@yahoo.com One Haflinger is never enough.

Massachusetts Horse

HOOF CARE •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• BAREFOOT PERFORMANCE Williamsburg, MA, (413) 348-5798 betsymerritt@hotmail.com Orthopedic trimming and holistic lameness rehabilitation.

INSURANCE •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• A & B INSURANCE GROUP Westford, MA, (978) 399-0025 www.abinsgroup.com AFIS-designated equine insurance professionals.

JOEY STETZ FARRIER SERVICE Blandford, MA, (413) 848-2336 www.ramona-farms.com Dependable, caring, ethical, and professional.

CORINTHIAN INSURANCE AGENCY Medway, MA, (877) 250-5103 www.corinthianequine.com Equine protection specialists.

HORSES FOR SALE •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• CHIPAWAY STABLES Acushnet, MA, (508) 763-5158 www.chipawaystables.com Horses, ponies for sale; trailers, tack shop, ranch supplies, grain, hay, shavings; roping, penning, and sorting. HERITAGE FARM Easthampton, MA, (413) 527-1612 www.farmheritage.com Auctions, sale horses, shows, clinics, boarding, lessons, and training. STRAIN FAMILY HORSE FARM Granby, CT, (860) 653-3275 www.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 three-week-exchange guarantee. Find us on Facebook. HUNTERS •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• ORION FARM South Hadley, MA, (413) 532-9753 www.orionfarm.net Local to national champions, boarding, training, showing, ponies for sale. WILD AIRE FARM Southbridge, MA, (508) 765-0641 www.wildairefarm.com Horse Power two-phases, hunter/jumper, and dressage shows. INSTRUCTION/TRAINING •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• BACK BAY FARM Ipswich, MA, (978) 356-0730 www.backbayfarm.com Lessons, boarding, training, and sales. CRIMSON ACRES Orange, MA, (978) 575-0341 www.crimsonacres.org Boarding, training, lessons, clinics, camps. CATHY DRUMM Pittsfield, MA, (413) 441-5278 www.cathydrumm.com Clinics, lessons, training, western and English dressage, hunter/jumper. GRANDVIEW FARM Dighton, MA, (774) 251-7422 www.grand-view-farm.com Indoor instruction, training, showing, boarding. SANDY HILL FARM Florence, MA, (413) 535-7484 www.sandyhillriding.com Private riding lessons, all ages.

April/May 2015

DON RAY INSURANCE Marshfield, MA, (781) 837-6550 www.donrayinsurance.com Farm, mortality, major medical and surgical, clubs, shows, instructors. FARM FAMILY INSURANCE www.farmfamily.com Carver: (508) 866-9150 Centerville: (508) 957-2125 Easthampton: (413) 203-5180 Great Barrington: (413) 528-1710 Marlborough: (508) 485-3800 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 •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• LILLIAN GILPIN Plympton, MA, (781) 424-4788 rockinghorsefarm1@yahoo.com NEHC-carded judge. ED GOLEMBESKI Gill, MA, (413) 863-2313 riker119@comcast.net 4-H, open shows, clinics, lessons. LINDA ROBSON Hanover, MA, (352) 572-3923 lindasrobson@gmail.com NEHC A-rated judge. LOANS •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• FARM CREDIT EAST Middleboro, MA, (800) 946-0506 www.farmcrediteast.com Loans for equestrian facilities, farms, bare land, home sites. Equipment loans and leases. MANURE REMOVAL •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• MITRANO REMOVAL SERVICE Massachusetts, (978) 425-6181 www.mitranoremoval.com Manure removal for small and large farms; full stockpile removals. MINIATURE HORSES, SUPPLIES •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• STAR LAKES MINIATURE TACK Atlasburg, PA, (724) 255-8583 www.starlakefarm.com Complete line of Miniature horse tack. NATURAL HORSEMANSHIP •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• BOB BURRELLI Plymouth, MA, (508) 224-9430 www.bobburrelli.com Licensed/certified horse trainer/clinician.

HORSE-MIND-SHIP: RJ SADOWSKI Plainfield, MA, (413) 634-8800 www.peacehavenfarm.com Clinics, colt starting, farm visits. IT’S A PLEASURE TRAINING Orange, MA, (978) 652-2231 www.itsapleasuretraining.com Starting horses under saddle, in harness. NORWEGIAN FJORDS •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• BLUE HERON FARM Charlemont, MA, (413) 339-4045 www.blueheronfarm.com Quality, purebred registered Fjords.

STRAIN FAMILY EQUESTRIAN CENTER Southwick, MA, (413) 569-5797 www.strainfamilyequestrian.com Boarding, lessons, training, sales, therapeutic riding. TACK •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• CHESHIRE HORSE Swanzey, NH, (877) 358-3001 www.cheshirehorse.com English, western, feed, supplies, trailers. DR. COOK BITLESS BRIDLE (866) 235-0938 www.bitlessbridle.com Safe, gentle, effective alternative to using a bit.

PHOTOGRAPHY •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• C A HILL PHOTO S. Dartmouth, MA (508) 789-0541 cahill.smugmug.com cahillphoto@gmail.com Equine, family, and farm photography in New England.

SMARTPAK RETAIL STORE Natick, MA, (508) 651-0045 www.smartpak.com/retailstore Tack, equipment, supplements, blankets, apparel, gear, gifts, clearance outlet.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MELISSA N. Dighton, MA, (508) 863-0467 www.melissaroot.com Equine portrait photography and events.

STERLING STEED ENTERPRISES Cincinnati, OH, (513) 309-7681 www.sterlingsteed.com Draft, oversize, Baroque, custom, unique.

PONY CLUB •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• RER PONIES - U.S. PONY CLUB CENTER Hatfield, MA, (413) 427-2026 www.rerponies.com Training, lessons, sales, Pony Club Riding Center, boarding, pony starting, tuneups.

TACK, BLANKET, HARNESS REPAIR •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• BLUE DOG LEATHER (978) 544-2681 www.bluedogleather.com Quality repairs and custom work.

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 www.equinehomes.com sally@equinehomes.com Sally Mann, Realtor, MA and NH.

JENN’S TACK & BLANKET SERVICE (978) 340-5576 jennstackrepair@comcast.net Blanket cleaning, repair. Used blankets and tack for sale. TRANSPORTATION •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• J.R. HUDSON HORSE TRANSPORTATION West Bridgewater, MA, (508) 427-9333 www.jrhudsonhorsetrans.com Serving the lower 48 states and Canada.

BERNICE GIARD REALITY Oakham, MA, (508) 882-3900 oakham@charter.net Country properties.

NORTHEAST EQUINE TRANSPORTATION Southbridge, MA, (774) 633-1499 www.nehorsetrans.com Serving Northeast, PA, NY, NJ, DE, MD.

STABLES, FARMS, BOARDING •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• CARRIER’S FARM Southampton, MA, (413) 527-0333 rcarrier0333@gmail.com Indoor, outdoor arenas, round pens, fields.

VETERINARIANS •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• FAMILY VETERINARY CENTER Haydenville, MA, (413) 268-8387 www.famvets.com Traditional and alternative care for dogs, cats, exotics, and horses.

GLENCROFT FARM Southampton, MA, (413) 527-8026 kraymond24@hotmail.com Boarding, pastures, ring, trails, fields.

HAMPTON VETERINARY SERVICES Easthampton, MA, (413) 527-4414 thehorsedoctor@verizon.net Wellness care, dental, lameness, reproduction, digital radiography.

INDEPENDENCE STABLE Belchertown, MA, (413) 284-0371 www.independencestablellc.com Lessons, training, boarding, clinics, dressage schooling shows. NEW MEADOWS FARM Pepperell, MA, (978) 502-0966 www.newmeadowsfarm.com Boarding, indoor, jump field, turnout, licensed instructor.

MASSACHUSETTS EQUINE CLINIC Uxbridge, MA, (508) 278-6511 www.massequine.com Full-service, multi-veterinarian, state-ofthe-art medical and surgical center. NORTH SHORE EQUINE, PC Newburyport, MA, (978) 621-2641 northshoreequineoffice@comcast.net Excellent comprehensive equine veterinary care.

SOUTH DEERFIELD VETERINARY CLINIC DR. ROBERT P. SCHMITT S. Deerfield, MA, (413) 665-3626 sdvc@aol.com Equine medicine, surgery since 1969. SOUTH SHORE EQUINE CLINIC Plympton, MA, (781) 585-2611 www.ssequineclinic.com Most up-to-date comprehensive and compassionate treatment. VIDEO/DVD PRODUCTION ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• ZZ CREATIVE VIDEO PRODUCTIONS Fitchburg, MA, (978) 345-7250 www.zzcreativevideo.com Horse show/events documentation, reasonable, professional, experienced.

Advertise for just $49 a year?

Yes!

Have your business and/or services in Massachusetts Horse and on MAHorse.com for just $49 for the year. Plus, you receive a free one-year subscription to Massachusetts Horse. Place your ad online at MAHorse.com or call (413) 268-3302.

advertiser index Absorbine ............................................. 60 Angel View Pet Cemetery ..................... 59 Apple Knoll Farm ................................. 39 Bacon’s Equipment ............................... 19 Barre Riding and Driving Club .............. 45 Berkshire HorseWorks .......................... 36 Bernice Giard Realty ............................. 57 Betsy Merritt .......................................... 7 A Bit of Riding ....................................... 32 Blue Dog Leather .................................. 50 Blue Rider Stables ................................ 51 Blue Seal Feed ..................................... 58 Bob Burrelli .......................................... 56 Briggs Stable Mini Shows ..................... 41 Briggs Tack Shop Trailer Sales ............. 26 Cape Cod Dressage Association ........... 41 The Carriage Shed ................................. 2 Carrier’s Farm ....................................... 56 Cathy Drumm ......................................... 17 Central Mass. Horse Show Series ......... 46 Charles River Dressage Assoc. ............. 50 The Cheshire Horse .............................. 27 Cheshire Horse Fair .............................. 38 Chipaway Stables ................................. 27 Corinthian Insurance ............................. 17 Country Corral ...................................... 24 Crimson Acres ....................................... 56 Cummington Mustangs ........................ 37 Damminix Tick Tubes ............................. 12 DK Saddlery ......................................... 44 Don Ray Insurance Agency .................... 15 Dream Big Performance Horses ............. 21 Eastern Competitive Trail Ride Assoc. .. 42 Eastern States Exposition Horse Show . 52 Equine Homes ....................................... 23 Equus Integrated Therapy .................... 57 Essex County Trail Association ............ 40 Fairview Farms JJC ................................ 57 Family Veterinary Center ....................... 24 Farm Credit East .................................... 10 Farm Family Insurance ......................... 49 Grace Golden, Realtor .......................... 56 Hampshire County Riding Club .......... 34 Hampton Veterinary Services ............... 56 Hanover Hunt and Riding Club .............. 41 Heritage Farm ........................................ 13

is this your horse?

Hometown Realtors .............................. 57 HorseBack and Body ............................ 56 Horse-Powered Mysteries .................... 30 Horse-Wellness.com ............................. 50 Independence Stable ........................... 56 It’s a Pleasure Training .......................... 15 Jenn’s Tack and Blanket Service ............ 6 Joey Stetz Farrier Service ..................... 32 Just Horses ............................................ 19 Lamore Lumber ..................................... 29 Lester Buildings ..................................... 11 Massachusetts 4-H Program ................ 57 Massachusetts Horse Benefit Show ..... 52 Mitrano Removal Services .................... 56 Mountain Top Inn and Resort ................ 9 Mount Holyoke College ........................ 40 MSPCA Nevins Farm Equine Center ..... 38 Myopia Hunt Horse Show ...................... 51 Natural Balance Equine Dentistry ........ 24 New England Equestrian Center of Athol’s Equestrian Showcase ....................... 43 Northeast Equine Veterinary Dental Services ......................................... 19 On the Road Trailers .............................29 Orion Farm ........................................... 44 Peace Haven Farm ................................ 32 RER Ponies ........................................... 57 Rider Horsemanship ............................. 48 Salty Dawg Equine Services ................... 6 SmartPak Saddlery ................................. 5 Smith-Worthington Saddlery ................ 47 Sons of the Wind .................................... 18 South Coast Series Horse Shows .......... 35 Springfield Fence Co. ............................ 33 SRH Veterinary Services ....................... 57 Sunrise Pleasure Horse Show Series .... 40 Three County Fair ............................... 34 Western Massachusetts Appaloosa Association .................................... 36 Western New England Professional Horsemen’s Association ................... 51 White Spruce Farms .............................. 39 Wild Aire Farm ....................................... 37 Xenophon Farm .................................... 42 Yered .................................................... 26

Alessandra Mele

PARROTT EQUINE ASSOCIATES Hamilton, MA, (978) 468-6307 www.parrottequine.com Equine sports medicine, dentistry, reproductive, surgery, 24-hour emergency service, general medicine. SANCTUARY ANIMAL CLINIC Holyoke, MA, (413) 532-2175 Dr. John Perdrizet, equine internal medicine specialist; Chinese acupuncture, herbology, and food therapy.

Is this your horse? This photo was taken at the Gold Cooler Jumper Show at Orion Farm, South Hadley. 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.

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Massachusetts Horse

Massachusetts marketplace

Recovery . Maintenance . Performance Therapeutic Massage . Bodywork . Reiki Jo Bunny licensed massage therapist, certified equine massage therapist

(413) 320-7690 • jobunny@comcast.net

978-425-6181 call us first

Manure reMoval for large & sMall farMs roll-off containers 10 to 30 yards on call or scheduled service.

Advertise Here for $49!

Dressage Schooling Shows Including Western Dressage Tests! March 29 . April 26 August 9 . September 20

full stock pile removals. Barn/outbuilding demo & removal • fencing demo & replacement Proud Sponsor of Bear Spot Musical Freestyle and the oakrise Farm Show Series.

www.mitranoremoval.com

Independence Stable, LLC

Lessons . Training . Boarding . Clinics

mahorse.com (413) 268-3302

Belchertown, MA (413) 284-0371 independencestablellc.com

Carrier’s Farm Specializing in Equine Properties, Farms, and Country Homes Grace Golden, Realtor Coldewell Banker Residential Brokerage 908-319-4443 grace.golden@nemoves.com Grace has owned and operated farms for over 26 years. She is an active uSdF “L” judge and dressage competitor. Not only does she understand your needs, goals, and dreams, she also clearly understands the value of your farm and equine property marketing.

April/May 2015

70' x 135' indoor arena . 100 ' x 200' outdoor heated tack & lunch room . two round pens jumping field with obstacles . daily turnout quiet, friendly atmosphere . individual lockers all disciplines . owners on premises flexible turnout and shelter options Bob & nancy Carrier . (413) 527-0333 16 David St., Southampton, mA

proudly serving the pioneer Valley for over 25 years. Complete wellness Care including Dental, Lameness, and Reproduction state of the Art Digital Radiography

John L. Cowley, M.s., D.V.M. p.O. Box 1019, easthampton, Mass.

(413) 527-4414 thehorsedoctor@verizon.net

Massachusetts marketplace New Salem Horse Farm Now Accepting Boarders New 20,000 square-foot Facility!

Horse Leases Available partial $275/mo., half $400/mo., full $525/mo.

Beginner to Advanced Instruction Hunt Seat/Equitation, Dressage, Eventing, Western

Brimfield, MA 413-245-3083 . fairviewfarmsjjc.com

Gorgeous 23+- acres is on the edge of woods, dirt roads, and trails. Ride/drive your horses for miles! Wonderful, well-organized barn for your horses and useful outbuildings. Huge fields for hay and pasture, and a pleasing view. The ranch home has three bedrooms, two baths, a privacy floor plan, stone fireplace, mostly finished basement, and huge deck overlooking the land. $265,000.

I love this farm â&#x20AC;&#x201C; come see it! Contact Althea today! Althea Bramhall,Hometown Realtors 617-678-9300, althearealtor@gmail.com

Advertise Here for $69!

Large and Small Animal Medicine & Surgery Serving the North Shore since 1951 Helen Noble, vMd . Robert Orcutt, dvM derek Cavatorta, dvM phd Kirstin Anderson, dvM . Ashley Taylor, dvM

Ted Moser, BS, LMT A Masterson Method Practitioner 413 . 522 . 0658 equusintegratedtherapy.com

mahorse.com (413) 268-3302

Serving western Mass., southern Vermont, and northwest Conn.

Mass4H.org

295 High St, Ipswich, Mass. 978-356-1119 (phone) 978-356-5758 (fax) www.srhveterinary.com

RER Ponies Training, Lessons & Sales by CHA certified, BHS trained, and USDF competitor

Heather Reynolds Dostal

Antique Home ~ Equestrian Potential Enjoy living a true New England experience in this unique early 19th century Cape-style home that is well constructed. It hosts an addition with thoughtfully chosen material. Gourmet kitchen with lots of windows, pantry, 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, screened porch. 3.1 acres. Carriage house with loading dock. West Brookfield, MA. $480,000. Additional lot is available as well. $79,900.

Bernice Giard Realty (774) 262-667 or (508) 882-3900

Freelance Instruction . Lesson Horses Available U.S. Pony Club Riding Center

Charming private facility offering: Boarding, training, pony starting, and tune ups. Professional, well rounded, goal oriented lesson program for riders of all ages beginner through advanced.

www.RERponies.com 413.427.2026 8 Circle Dr., Hatfield, MA

Massachusetts Horse

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

Brattleboro Agway 1277 Putney Rd., Brattleboro, VT (802) 254-8757 . achilleagway.net Bridgewater Farm Supply 1000 Plymouth St., Bridgewater (508) 697-0357 bridgewaterfarm.com

Beaver Valley Farm 17 Main St., Pelham, NH (603) 635-2597 . beavervalleyfarm.net

Country Corral 35 Main St., Williamsburg (413) 268-0180 . countrycorralonline.com

Bernardston Farmer’s Supply 43 River St., Bernardston (413) 648-9311 bernardstonfarmerssupply.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

April/May 2015

Essex County Co-op 146 S. Main St., Topsfield (978) 887-2309 essexcountycoop.net

Sweet Meadow Feed & Grain 111 Coolidge St., Sherborn (508) 650-2926 sweetmeadowfeedandgrain.com

Family Pet & Garden Center 14 Columbia Rd., Rte. 53, Pembroke (781) 829-2220

Thibault’s Poultry 92 N. Spencer Rd. Spencer (508) 885-3959

Hardwick Farmers Co-op Exchange Rte. 32, Gilbertville (413) 477-6913 hardwickfarmers.net Robbins Garden Center 28 Sutton Ave., Oxford (508) 987-2700 robbinsgarden.com

Over 34 Years of Service

Cremains available to family within 72 hours.

Massachusetts Horse

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