Massachusetts Horse August/September 2018 by Community Horse Media

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

August/September 2018 mahorse.com $4

HORSE

BUYING A TRAILER

MOUNTAIN TOP INN & RESORT

AND HITTING THE ROAD

TRAIL GUIDE

NEW ENGLAND EQUESTRIAN CENTER OF ATHOL

SETTING YOUR HORSE UP FOR SUCCESS

LEND A HOOF

HORSE LOGIC

2 August/September 2018

contents

August/September 2018

columns © Samdy Rabinowitz

20 Setting Your Horse Up for Success Horse Logic

22 Mountain Top Inn & Resort

Chittenden, Vermont Trail Guide

32 Neighborly Nickers Mare’s Nest: Unsticking an Equine Pine-Pitch Dilemma

34 Events Calendar 14

features 8 Buying a Trailer and Hitting the Road Lead Feature

Massachusetts Only

in every issue 16 Lise Krieger Figuring It Out and Having a Good Time Horseperson Feature

5 From the Publisher 7 Your Letters 24 Overherd 28 Partners 34 Events Calendar

14 Rhapsody Hill Farm

18 New England

It’s All About Family

Equestrian Center

Farm Feature

of Athol

39 This Olde Horse 40 The Neighborhood 42 Is This Your Horse?

Lend a Hoof

Massachusetts Horse

August/September 2018

From the Publisher

e’ve been supporting our

unique combination of a hunter pace,

MassachusettsHorseBenefit. See you

equestrian community

an obstacle course, and a horsemanship-

there! We’ve started a new column in

since 2001 by donating

more than 2,200 Massachusetts Horse

this issue, Neighborly Nickers, on page

Junior Horsemanship Awards to Bay

32. Kara Noble sent in advice on

State competitions; raising $65,000 for

removing pine pitch from her horses

horse-related nonprofit groups

to start us off. Send us your advice,

through the Massachusetts Horse

idea, or tip to win a Absorbine gift

Benefit; providing free subscriptions

basket! Here’s to the waning days of sum-

to the members of 32 organizations and clubs; and we’re in our 17th year

mer. The hay is stacked in the barn

of publishing news, photos, event

and the light is changing. The birds

coverage, and more.

are already migrating south and my horses are starting to shed their sum-

Massachusetts Horse Benefit Adventure

Elanna Reavill-O'Toole won the Massachusetts Horse Junior Horsemanship Award at the Interscholastic Equestrian Association Region 1 Western Finals at Briggs Stable in Hanover. Pictured are Elanna and her 22-yearold Holsteiner mare Indie’s Lady. Congratulations!

Trail at Apple Knoll Equestrian Center in Millis. All proceeds will go to the Central New England Equine Rescue, Norfolk Hunt Club, and

knowledge quiz. To learn more, go to

Trustees of Reservations. This event is a

page 33, mahorse.com, and facebook.com/

CRDA Dressage Shows

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

August 12 . September 30 - crdressage.org

Lainey Ashker Eventing Clinic August 20 - 22

Halloween Hunter Pace October 21

North Bridge Equine Challenge Jumper Shows

Aug. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 . Sept. 5 . Sept. 12 Finale

Poker Run September 9

Cross Country Derbies October 14 . November 4

CRDA Patricia Kottas-Heldenberg Clinic Massachusetts Horse Adventure Trail

Lucky Finn Photography

November 17 - 18 - crdressage.org

Prize lists and entry forms at:

September 16 - mahorse.com/benefit

mer coats. Carrots are growing sweet and delicious in the vegetable garden, almost ready for eating, mostly by my horses. Enjoy!

Schooling Horse Trials Championships

August 19 An end-of-the-season competition to demonstrate all the great learning you and your horse have done throughout the year. For a list of qualifying horse trials, visit schoolinghtc.com. Follow on Facebook at facebook.com/SchoolingHTC.

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

Paige Bassett/Spotted Vision Photography

Join us September 16 for the

Rent our facilities for horse shows, clinics, and other equine activities. Our cross-country course is open for schooling by appointment, weather permitting. Massachusetts Horse

Ride with Us! Competitive Rates & Great Service Call for a no hassle, free quote.

M ASSAC H US ETTS

HORSE vol. 17, no. 2 August/September 2018

ISSN 1945-1393

99 Bissell Road, Williamsburg, MA 01096 phone: (413) 268-3302 • fax: (413) 268-0050 • mahorse.com

Massachusetts Horse is an independently owned and -operated all-breed, all-discipline equestrian publication for the Bay State.

Mortality & Major Medical . Farm Packages Horse Associations and Clubs . Directors & Oﬃcers Horse Shows, Clinics, Events . Expo Coverage Instructor Liability . Payment Plans

publisher Stephanie Sanders • steph@mahorse.com • (413) 268-3302

We will provide you with competitive rates, educated service, and help substantiate values.

Terri Ray (781) 837-6550 donrayinsurance.com Insure your equine partner with a leading equine agent!

editor Kathaleen Emerson feature writers Nicole Birkholzer, Stephanie Funk, Sheryl Hodge, Alessandra Mele, Laurie Neely, Stacey Stearns contributors Kathy Feehery, Susan Goldfischer, JoAnn Hamson, Sarah Isherwood Becky Kalagher, Suzy Lucine, Diane Merritt, Lynda Mockler, Kara Noble Karin Orsi, Annamaria Paul, Dale Perkins, Angela Powers, Shawn Tinkham

reporters Alessandra Mele • (413) 949-1972 • alessandra@mahorse.com Cora Shillinglaw • (508) 737-6810 • shillinglawc@gmail.com Holly Jacobson • (978) 356-5842 • holly@mahorse.com Karen Morang • (508) 797-2828 • karen@mahorse.com

State-of-the-Art Equine Laundry Facility Expert Tack Repair

advertising main office • (413) 268-3302 • ads@mahorse.com Advertising deadline for the October/November issue is August 10.

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My Dream Stinger’s Rain Guage, a.k.a. Gage, and owner and whip Diane Bozyczko of Cheshire at the Colonial Carriage and Driving Society Annual Show at Orleton Farm in Stockbridge.

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Jennifer Safron www.jennstackandblanket.com JennsTackRepair@comcast.net 114 Coburn Ave., Gardner, MA (978) 340-5576 Please call for hours 6

August/September 2018

Massachusetts Horse is printed with soy-based ink on recycled paper.

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: My name is Holly and I happen to be the rider pictured in the

Briggs Stable

Tack Shop & Trailer Sales Authorized Kingston Dealer

Is This Your Horse? contest in the June/July of your awesome magazine! That’s the beautiful, handsome Amber Champagne gelding that I’ve been working with for almost a decade. And yes, in the picture, we are competing in our first ever jumper show in a bitless bridle! (Thank you, Camp Marshall!) “Biscut” is truly a wonder horse. And we’re both completely honored to be featured in Massachusetts Horse! Thank you so much for the month’s supply of SmartPaks and the two-year subscription to Massachusetts Horse! You guys are the absolute best! Nickers and thanks again, Holly Morway, Worcester

To the editor: Thank you, thank you, thank you for sending us a

Massachusetts Horse Junior Horsemanship Award to hand out at our show. It just came in the mail 10 minutes ago and brought me to tears when I opened the box and realized what

Briggs Stable Tack Shop & Trailer Sales 623 Hanover St., Hanover, Mass.

(781) 826-3191 briggstackshop.com Summer Hours: M, Tu, , F, Sat 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., W 5:30 to 8 p.m., Sun 9 a.m. to 1 p.m

it was. It’s been a long week with a few hiccups preparing for the show. So this just made me happy! If you're out and about on the 4th of of July, please stop in and see our show. Thank you!

Let us know your thoughts!

Hollie Danhauser, Marion 4th of July Horse Show manager

We’ll enter you to win a $75 Cheshire Horse gift card! All letters received by September 5 will be entered in the drawing. Send your letters to: steph@mahorse.com or Massachusetts Horse, 99 Bissell Rd., Williamsburg, MA 01096.

Betsy Merritt Barefoot Performance Natural Hoofcare Orthopedic Trimming and Holistic Lameness Rehabilitation Trimming to promote the healing of coffin bone rotation (laminitis), club “feet,” navicular syndrome, thrush/white line problems, contracted heels, under run heels, cracks, poor hoof quality, and shod to barefoot transitions. Genuine options to conventional shoeing and hoofcare. High performance barefoot and maintenance trimming of all equines including donkeys, ponies, and minis.

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Massachusetts Horse

Buying a Trailer

Alessandra Mele

and Hitting the Road

by Stephanie Funk and Alessandra Mele

here’s hardly a day that goes by when you don’t see a horse trailer whizzing by. Once transportation themselves, now equines travel in increasingly luxurious trailers. Still, for many of us, taking the steps to owning one can be daunting to contemplate. Where do you begin? What will it cost? Can my vehicle handle it? And what about insurance? All are valid concerns, but let’s slow down and take things one step at a time.

Straight load or slant load? This simple question can provoke rabid responses from horse people. It’s like asking a dozen of your friends what brand of truck you should buy — you’ll get emotional responses. Some people will tell you straight load only, others will say slant load only. You’ll need to do your homework to determine which is best for your situation. The differences between the two are this: In general, a slant load will have a lower ceiling — 7' instead of 7'6" — and the horse will have less room lengthwise, nose to tail, in which to fit. In most cases the width of trailer will be the same for a slant load as for a straight load. Two horses will go across the space at a slant, and will have on average 90 inches nose to tail. If you have a big, long horse, this won’t work well unless you give him two stalls. 8

August/September 2018

Most slant loads come as a step-up, but you can have a ramp added. Horses go across the axles, so even a single horse has his weight distributed equally. Horses are slanted side by side, so unless you have a front escape ramp, you have to off-load horses if you need to get to the one loaded first. You may find slant loads that are 7'6" high rather than 7', and wider than the standard 6'9" or 7'. Trailers can range in width from 6'6" to as much as 8'6". The normal width for a bumper pull is 6'9" or 7'. On average, it will come as 7' tall, but it can be made as tall as 8'. Straight loads work especially well for larger horses — hunter/jumpers, warmbloods, draft crosses, and Thoroughbreds. Slant loads work well for Quarter Horses and other smaller breeds that tend to be more compactly built, making them an ideal fit. In general, straight-load trailers will have 7'6" head room, most come with a ramp and have two human escape doors in front of the horses, and provide more room for your horse from nose to tail. On average, a straight-load trailer should give you from 72" to 95" from chest to butt. Then you get up to 4' of head and neck room added to that. Trailer sizes have changed quite a bit in the past decade or so. Before that, trailers routinely were 6'6" tall and only

6' wide. Custom-ordered units with room for bigger horses were referred to as “extra wide, extra tall.” Today’s modern trailers are coming in sizes that were once considered custom. This means that if it’s 7'6" tall and at least 6'6" wide, you’ll have plenty of room. A few variations of straight-load trailers bear mentioning. Two-horse straight-load trailers also come in a manger style. In this design, there’s a solid wall at the base of the horse’s neck to the floor. Some manger-style trailers have small escape doors leading from the front but these can be perilous if the handler needs to get out quickly. Manger trailers are useful for Miniature horses, ponies, and small breeds of horses but can be difficult to use for bigger horses. One benefit to the manger style is that the divider can be taken out to create a box stall with four solid walls. However, be aware of potential drawbacks before you commit to buying one of these, and make sure it suits your needs. One other style is the super-lightweight trailer. Long used in Europe, this has become popular in the United States over the past few decades. In theory, having a trailer weighing under 2,000 pounds and being able to haul it with a regular vehicle sounds attractive. In reality, there are some pitfalls. Here are some points to consider.

Many are hooking these lightweight trailers to cars that have a towing capacity of 3,000 pounds. The trailer takes up almost two-thirds of that without any horses in it. When a horse weighing 1,000 pounds is put in the trailer, the towing capacity has been reached. If a second horse joins the first, the tow vehicle is overloaded. If one of the horses moves around, paws, or acts up, the trailer will be the tail that wags the dog and you’ll be in a dangerous situation. The lightweight trailers have surge brakes. When the weight of the trailer surges forward, it compresses the hitch mechanism to trigger the brakes. Popular decades ago, this outdated system has been for the most part replaced by the electronic brake system: a better, more efficient, and safer system. Remember, towing your rig is just part of the job; you must be able to stop it, too.

What is the trailer weight? This is probably the most frequently asked question from anyone shopping for a trailer. How much do these trailers weigh? A trailer will have two weights: GVW, the empty weight (just the trailer, no horses or equipment), and GVWR, what the axles can carry when fully laden.

Every trailer has a vehicle identification number (VIN) plate that lists the trailer’s GVW and the GVWR. A twohorse trailer’s GVW can range from 2,200 pounds (all aluminum) without a dressing room to 4,000 (steel framed with aluminum skin) with a dressing room. The GVWR for a two-horse trailer is usually up to 7,000 pounds. As a rule of thumb, figure on 1,000 pounds per horse for weight (adjusting if your horses are very big or very small) Water weighs 8.35 pounds per gallon, so water tanks get heavy quickly.

What does my vehicle need in order to tow the trailer? At minimum, a class III hitch receiver must be welded to the frame of the vehicle. The receiver is on a framework that attaches to the frame underneath the vehicle, so the entire system is secure. It gives you a two-inch square opening that the ball and drop (the trailer hooks to this) slide into. The drop is to position the ball at a height that makes the trailer level when hitched to the towing vehicle. Differentheight drops are available. You’ll also need a plug back there, a big round one with seven slots in it (a

seven-wire plug) that the trailer can plug into. These are now the standard on a trailer. Older ones may have a smaller plug, round with six holes. You can either get an adapter or have a mechanic replace it with the new type. Inside your vehicle, if the trailer has electric brakes (and most do), you’ll need a brake controller box. Some new vehicles integrate the brake controller box into the dash, but most will need to have the box installed. Once connected, think of the box as the brain that tells the trailer to apply its brakes when you apply the brakes on the towing vehicle, how much pressure to apply, and how fast to apply it. Most brake controller boxes are adjustable. You’ll need a ball and drop to slide into the receiver and hook the trailer to the vehicle. A simple ball and drop is what the trailer attaches to and is properly sized for the trailer. The bar with the drop and ball slides into the receiver and is secured by a pin. Look for a reputable trailer dealer or hitch installer, or ask your mechanic if he does this type of work. For some high-end tow vehicles, the dealership will be the one you want to work on anything involving its electrical system. Trucks and other hauling vehicles, Family owned for 42 years.

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such as SUVs, come in a variety of configurations. Two vehicles of the same model and year can have a different axle ratio and motor, making them far different from each other. In general, the higher the number for the axle ratio, the lower it’s geared, and lower gearing is good for torque, which is the grunt needed to pull the trailer forward from a dead stop. To simplify this with an example: Say you have a ten-speed bike. Try cycling off from a dead stop in fifth. Now drop it into first. See the difference? A vehicle with a 373 axle ratio will be geared more for highway driving. Its optimal speed is cruising. A vehicle a 410 axle ratio is geared for better pulling. It will have an easier time pulling a trailer from a stop or through hilly territory than will a higher-geared vehicle. The pulling/hauling capacity for any vehicle can be found online. Check the sticker inside the driver’s-side door for the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR). In the towing vehicle, depending on the manufacturer, the GVWR is the safe maximum weight of the vehicle and everything in it, including horses, equipment, passengers, and cargo. Although some of the short SUVs can haul a small load, they generally aren’t suitable for towing a horse trailer. There are many reasons for this, but the main reason is the shorter wheelbase. If you tow with a vehicle that has a short wheelbase, the trailer can again be the tail that wags the dog, throwing the SUV all over the roadway if the horse moves around inside the trailer. You’ll want at minimum a full-size SUV or truck. The size of the trailer will dictate the size of vehicle you need to safely tow the trailer. You can do it the other way around — get the vehicle first and then decide on the trailer — but that may limit your trailer choices.

What about buying a used trailer? Keep in mind, horse trailers are motor vehicles. There can be as many pitfalls buying a used trailer from a private seller as there would be if you bought a used car this way. If buying privately, make sure the trailer has had regular servicing. Be sure the frame is solid and not rotted out. Check the floor under the rubber mats for rot and rust. The tires should 10

August/September 2018

look evenly worn. Uneven wear, a recently changed tire, bald tires . . . these are warnings. Have the trailer inspected by a mechanic before you buy to ensure that the brakes are working properly, the wiring is sound, and determine if there are other concerns. Research a used trailer online for any manufacturer’s recalls or common problems with the brand and model you’re considering.

current title, you may have to pay additional taxes and fees when you register the trailer. When buying a new trailer, you’ll get the manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin, which you sign and turn in to the registry of motor vehicles (RMV) to generate a title. A trailer’s GVW is how much it weighs empty; the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) is the combined weight of the trailer and how much weight the trailer is allowed to haul.

How much will a trailer cost? There’s no Blue Book for trailers, and quite likely there never will be. Unlike cars, there are too many variables, coupled with a plethora of small manufacturers. The following guidelines are based only on observation of the market. Prices will vary. $500 to $2,000: Older two-horse, all-steel trailer. It may need significant work to bring it up to road-readiness. It may or may not have a title. Pay close attention to frame, floor, and axles. $2,000 to $4,000: Some aluminum with steel-frame construction, usually on older models and usually at the higher end of the range. This is mostly a used, steel-trailer range, although you may find inexpensive new steel stock trailers or steel two-horse trailers in this category. $4,000 to $6,000: Steel frame with aluminum skin models, 8 to 15 years old, without a dressing room. Some older models may have a dressing room. $6,000 to $8,000: Used aluminum and steel with a dressing room and cheaper-made, newer brands, with and without a dressing room. Older used allaluminum trailers. $8,000 to $25,000: New-price category for bumper pulls, in all configurations. Some new all-aluminum dressingroom bumper-pull trailer models. If you’re checking pricing, go online and research similar brands and configurations.

Do I have to register my trailer? Yes. A trailer is considered a motor vehicle, and as such is subject to registration and insurance just as your car is. When you purchase a used trailer, be sure the title is in the current owner’s name. Also, make sure it’s the title, not the manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin. If the seller cannot provide a

Do I need to insure my trailer? Yes. Provide your agent with the vehicle identification number (VIN), make, year, and model and they will add it to your existing policy. When you get the RMV1 form either at the Registry of Motor Vehicles near you or online at massrmv.com, your insurance company will stamp it for you, just as it would for a car. Some agencies will generate the form for you.

Maintain Your Trailer The excitement has worn off and you’ve been trucking your horses successfully for a while. Well, like a car, a trailer needs regular care and servicing. Although there’s no motor to worry about, there are brakes, bearings, seals, tires, and other mechanical items that should be looked at regularly to avoid a breakdown on the road. It is recommended that you service a trailer once a year or every 5,000 miles. You can have these services done at a dealer or you can arrange to have it done with any good mechanic. Just verify that the person is inspecting the frame and floor as part of the tune-up. Lack of use can lead to deterioration of parts, and it’s important to catch those before your horse hops on board. From top to bottom, there’s a lot to assess. Make sure these key areas receive attention:

Tires Remove all wheels and hubs and perform a full inspection. Don’t forget to check out the spare tire, too. Look at overall tire wear: Tires should be even and free of damage, with good tread and no dry rot. Any tire weakens with age. Sitting in the sun for long periods harms the side walls and causes small cracks to form in the rubber. You’ll notice these readily. Check the tires

Massachusetts Horse

periodically for dry rot. When buying new tires be sure they haven’t been sitting on the distributer’s shelf for the last two or three years. Always check the manufacturer’s code, as it will contain the date the tires were made. Make sure they’re at the correct tire pressure at a cold state. Check for faulty air valves, and grease and/or repack wheel bearings. If you need a new tire, invest in a quality one intended for use on a trailer; it’s unsafe to use automobile tires on a horse trailer. Replace tires every three to five years, no matter how many miles they’ve traveled.

Nuts and bolts Lug nuts should be tight. Check periodically and retorque as you travel. The major bolts to inspect are the hangers, the shackles, and the U-bolts. Make sure they’re adjusted to the recommended torque values.

Interior

lubricate moving parts. It’s good to regularly wash, and even wax, the exterior.

Emergency kit Make sure that first-aid kits, one for horses and one for humans, along with other emergency supplies, are well stocked and handy. Replace any items that have been used up. Among the essentials are gauze, bandages, tape, wound ointment, an antiseptic, and a supply of pain medications recommended by your veterinarian. Flashlights, blankets, duct tape, jumper cables, a tire gauge, a fire extinguisher, and hazard triangles are invaluable when things take a turn for the worse: Be prepared.

First, check for rust; oxidation is common on the braking surface during a wet winter. Oil all moving parts with a high-temperature brake lubricant, and check for wear or damage on the linings and drums. Always test the brakes before each trip to make sure they’re functioning properly.

Is the inside of the trailer clean and free of debris? Buildup of shavings, hay, and dirt can cause a variety of mechanical problems. Sweep the floor, then lift the mats to get rid of anything underneath. Warning: The grime may shock you. Examine the floor underneath the mats for rot (wood) and wear, then give the mats a good hosing down to remove lingering urine and manure stains. It’s also important to check all the nooks and crannies for bee and wasp nests and other pest infestations. You definitely don’t want to have to deal with any of theseissues while you’re on the road.

Lights

Exterior

Planning for an Emergency

Check out the wiring for proper configuration and storage. You don’t want any loose wires.

Repair any damage. Inspect doors, windows, latches, hinges, hitch, and ramp for wear. Check for signs of rust, then

In spite of your efforts to think ahead, there’s always the chance that an emergency will arise. That’s a risk we take

Brakes

Tow vehicle Check engine-fluid levels and replenish if necessary. Be sure you have enough wiper fluid. Inspect the brakes, tires, transmission, and radiator to determine if they’re in good condition.

continued on page 38 . . .

August/September 2018

Massachusetts Horse

Upton

Farm Feature

Rhapsody Hill Farm It’s All About Family

by Sheryl Hodge

When One Door Closes, Another Opens How did what some have referred to as one of central Massachusetts’ best kept secrets, Rhapsody Hill Farm, come about? You might say that when one door closes, another opens. The co-op where Jane Rizzitano, M.ED., M.A. was keeping her horses was slated to become a larger public facility, which

meant it was no longer the right place for Jane and her horses. In addition, she’d been teaching riding lessons at another farm and was ready to have her horses and her students in one place. “I decided it would be better to take the horses home and that began the long process of finding an appropriate property [for my dream farm],” Jane says. The search brought Jane and her husband David Thakar to Upton. “We looked for land that was fairly flat and that needed very little clearing,” says Jane. “When we found this house, we saw that there was a big field, where the barn, ring, and back paddock are now, and we visualized how it would lay out. My husband, being a graphic designer, laid it all out on the computer so we could see how it would work and we could adjust if needed.” “One of my greatest pleasures in life has been to be able to ride with my own children and having the horses at home has been wonderful,” says Jane. “My daughter still comes home to ride 14 August/September 2018

with me when she can. Her two-and-ahalf-year-old daughter is already horse crazy and loves to ride ‘Beau Beau.’ We took her to a show to do Lead Line last summer. For the trail course the judge put out cones for them to weave through. Brooklyn immediately looked at her mom and said, ‘I jump now?’ She will go to some [more] shows this summer as well.”

than many professionally built structures he’d seen. It’s a beautiful, substantial structure built with a lot of heart and hard work. In addition to building the barn, David’s also constructed the chicken coop, bunny hutch, a round pen, and run-in shelters. All around the farm you feel the love and respect for the animals, the thought that went into creat-

So begins another generation of horse-crazy girls in the family.

ing the structures to house them, and the care and attentiveness that is put into the daily upkeep. How did the farm’s name come about? “We named the farm Rhapsody Hill Farm because all of our children are very musical,” says Jane. “Rhapsody is a musical term referring to inspiration and spontaneity, and we’re on a hill.”

A Labor of Love Rhapsody Hill Farm, established in 2004, is a small family-run, family-built farm owned by Jane and David. David, Jane, and their three kids, Liz, Becca, and Joe, built the seven-stall barn from a kit by Barn Pros. Jane, who is not a fan of heights, let the rest of the crew handle any part of the construction that involved ladders. It was most certainly a family affair and a labor of love. The barn looks professionally built, a testament to the family’s talent and the folks at Barn Pros. “The people at Barn Pros were great to work with,” David says. “They were always available to help or consult with as needed. You don’t have to be a contractor to build this barn.” In fact, the building inspector not only passed the barn with flying colors, he complimented David on his hard work and said it was better constructed

All Types of Students, One Common Goal “We have between thirty-two and forty clients at any given time,” Jane says. “We’ve many types of students from eight to eighteen year olds who love horses to women in their thirties, forties, fifties, and sixties who used to ride and have come back to it or are just beginning, to special needs students who love the animals.” The farm has five lesson horses (one retired) and two boarders. The goal is to provide high-quality lessons on great horses. Jane first assesses where a student is with her rid-

ing and then moves her forward. “The focus is on horsemanship so students learn to groom, tack up, care for the horses as well as ride,” she says. Jane’s career as an educator has shaped how she runs her lesson program. She has more than 35 years of experience as a public high school teacher, administrator and university adjunct. In 2016 she retired from the public school system and currently teaches part-time at Framingham State University. The real stars of any lesson program are the horses. Jane has some fabulous equine instructors on her roster including Clu Tardy Too a.k.a. Beau. Beau is an all around gelding owned by Jane and David’s daughter Liz. He has had an extraordinary show career and has earned many year-end awards with students. He enjoys taking students to their first shows as beginners and consistently carries students to their first blue ribbons in Lead Line, Walk Trot, and Walk Trot Canter classes. Beau’s a favorite among Rhapsody Hill Farm students, especially Jane’s granddaughter. Rayven, a Quarter Horse, has a sweet, uncomplicated, and in-yourpocket personality. Quarter Horse mare Cappy, Quarter Horse gelding Ivan, Morgan mare Rythum, and Quarter Horse gelding Image round out the instruction and show team.

Show Time The Rhapsody Hill Farm show team recently brought their A game to the Carousel Horse Farm Show Series in Oneco. It was a fun and rewarding day for all, especially those showing for the first time. Everyone on the show team ribboned and some discovered a previously untapped competitive spirit. When Liliana Carter was asked what she liked most about her first show she says, “I liked getting ribbons!” Isabella Galulo, a bit more shy about competing, had a great day as well. When asked about her favorite part of the day, Isabella quietly says she loves the horses. Liz Peterson, who is in high school now, has been riding with Jane for five years and currently works at the farm on the weekends. She just advanced to showing in canter classes this year and is off to a great start. Liz’s mom, Eleanor, says, “Jane and the farm have been so great for my daughter. I’ve seen growth in my daughter since she started riding at Rhapsody Hill Farm. Jane has

empowered Liz to become confident, to believe in herself. With consistent hard work, anything is achievable. We are extremely happy to have found a place that has made such a difference in our lives!” “Jane encourages all the kids to be their best,” Isabella’s mom, Ann, says. What Jane teaches her students goes beyond riding. She also teaches them to be better people, responsible, caring, and accountable. She’s firm and fair and the parents vigorously approve of and support her efforts. Jane is at the heart of this extended family that encourages and helps each other. “These moms have learned to hold horses, help me hang tails, do horse show hair and makeup, polish and shine horses as well as boots, pack and unpack the trailer, and a number of other horse show-related tasks,” says Jane. “None of them ride, but they are a great source of support and inspiration for their daughters and our team.”

“Before you’re a leader, success is all about growing yourself. When you become a leader, success is all about growing others.” – Jack Welch

This quote accurately describes Jane because her passion isn’t just for teaching, it’s for learning as well. Jane’s a successful leader helping others grow because she’s always growing herself. She’s an active student training with Torey Roderick of Torey Roderick Performance Horses out of Lee, New Hampshire, and Kellie Kinney of Jest-ABit Farm in Pepperell. “In order for me to improve my riding and instruction I continue lessons with two trainers,” says Jane. “One is stock horse/AQHA riding and the other is basic dressage. Like my students, I love my trainers and look forward to riding with them every lesson.” Success for Jane is a continuous cycle that begins with her thirst for learning and growing and then passing that on to her students.

Not Just for Kids The fun isn’t just for the kids. Jane also has ladies’ night, a group she calls the Night Riders, that gets together for an evening ride under the lights, after which they head inside Jane’s home for snacks, wine, and lots of laughs. The common bond of horses has fostered great friendships for this group of women who might not otherwise have had the chance to meet. Their lives out-

side of horses range from chemical engineer to librarian to retired nurse. Sometimes the fun is for parents and kids together. “I have a Mommy and Me program for the younger students to learn to groom, work around the horses, and ride,” says Jane. “If they’re able, I teach them to steer and it’s a precursor to riding in the lesson program when they get older. These can also be Daddy and Me classes. It’s a great way for younger kids to be introduced to horses and horsemanship. It’s also a great way for parents who love horses already, or want to learn along with their kids, to support and encourage them in their journey.”

Poetry in Motion Captured in Unique Sculptures In addition to being the go-to guy and handyman for the farm, David is also an amazing, ingenious artist. At the entrance to the farm you are greeted by one of his awe-inspiring sculptures — a massive and striking aluminum horse rearing up gently, as if waving to meet and welcome you. David is continuously inspired by watching the horses. One morning he happened to glance out the window and caught sight of Rythum, his daughter Liz’s 19-year-old Morgan, playfully running around. She kicked up her heels and was arced a bit sideways at the same time. He instantly took a mental picture and shortly after captured the image in a wrapped-wire sculpture. He constructs these wire sculptures using baling wire from 80-pound hay bales. The farm’s name is evidence of the inspiring atmosphere created by Jane and David. In addition, the horses inspire the students, Jane inspires the students — it’s a community built on that premise. Whether it’s the inspiration of the horses or art or the combination of both, at Rhapsody Hill Farm, it’s all about family. The residents of Rhapsody Hill Farm — horses, dogs, cats, rabbits, chickens, and humans — welcome all with great warmth. It’s an amazing extended family atmosphere that very much has been a well-kept secret from most, until now. Sheryl Hodge is a long-time editor, but more importantly a life-long horse lover. She’s a horse crazy girl who never gave up the dream of having her own horse. It took decades, but was well worth the wait as she’s now owned by a smart, sweet, and sassy chestnut Quarter Horse mare who inspires her on every level, every day.

Massachusetts Horse

Horseperson Feature

Whately

by Alessandra Mele

Lise Krieger Figuring It Out and Having a Good Time

ise Krieger was still in the honeymoon phase with her new horse Mae Mae when a riding friend mentioned that she was thinking of entering a low-level event in a few weeks. This piqued Lise’s interest; she’d never evented, but she knew she had a willing horse. “Cool, I’ll join you!” Lise said with excitement. Her friend smiled

pened,” she says. “I took lessons at a hunter jumper stable until I was about eight, and beyond that I had a friend who had horses that I would ride.” From then until adulthood Lise rode whatever and whenever she could. “I borrowed horses, rode other people’s horses, exercised horses that needed work, and even worked as a trail guide,”

In 2007, Lise went back to teaching full time in Springfield, but thought often of the farm and Dudley. As Christmas was approaching that year, she got a call from the farm owner, inviting her over for a visit. “I went back to the farm and he said he had a gift for me,” Lise says. “It was Dudley! Finally, a horse of my own.”

and asked tentatively, “Do you know the dressage test?” Lise shrugged and gave Mae Mae a pat, saying “No, but we’ll figure it out!” Three weeks later, she did just that. Lise has never been afraid to jump in with both feet, trying new things and ‘figuring it out’ as she goes. At 45, Lise fulfilled her lifelong dream of owning a horse and has been all-in ever since. She stays active with her two Canadian horses, Dudley and Mae Mae, whether they’re out on the trails, taking on a hunter pace, or attending a clinic. Beyond riding, Lise has been developing her skills as a saddle fitter and recently started her own business. “That’s what I’m all about,” Lise says. “If something sounds like fun, I want to go try it. My horses and I always end up having a good time.”

she says. “I never really thought I would have a horse of my own, but just wanted to be riding.” Lise made her way to western Massachusetts in 2006, after leaving a 19-year teaching job in Connecticut. Searching for full-time work, an ad in the local newspaper caught her eye: a gentleman was looking for help on his horse farm. Lise immediately responded with enthusiasm. “It was like the best thing that had ever happened to me,” Lise says. “I was doing barn chores, shoveling horse manure, and spending time with horses. I was happy.” She spent a year immersed in the smell of baled hay, the sound of soft morning nickers, and the radiating warmth of horses. During that time, she met the horse that would change her life forever. “The farm owner had a horse come in that he was thinking of using as a new driving horse,” she says. “I fell in love. Dudley was a big, dark, handsome boy and I loved spending time with him.”

A Horse of Her Own, and Then Some

Chasing a Dream Growing up in Weston, Connecticut, Lise was always in love with horses. “I’m not really sure how, but it just hap16

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From there, Lise’s reeducation in horses and riding blossomed through her partnership with Dudley, which proved challenging at times. “Having not taken riding lessons in a long time, I got on Dudley thinking, ‘I know how to ride, you’ll do whatever I ask,’ and that was definitely not the case,” says Lise, laughing. Canadian horses have a reputation for being very smart, and Lise soon learned that Dudley was no exception. “I spent my first year with Dudley figuring out that he wasn’t going to move if I didn’t ask him correctly,” she says. “If I hadn’t had him as my first horse though, I wouldn’t have learned all that I did. I grew so much, and he forced me to become a better horse person.” Lise worked hard — taking lessons, attending clinics, and learning all she could from fellow horse people. She acquired another Canadian horse, a gentle, honest mare named Mae Mae.

When she and her partner Jo Bunny purchased a house in Whately, Lise moved the horses home. Three Miniature horses found their way into the herd as well, and now Lise has incredible joy in having the horses close. “They’re just out the back door of the house, always part of our day-today lives,” she says. “I love that, it gives us all a deep connection.” That connection has enhanced Lise’s riding with both Dudley and Mae Mae, and she remains very active in the saddle with both. “Whether it’s taking them on trail rides, doing demonstrations at Equine Affaire, completing obstacle courses, or entering dressage shows, I ask them and they always say ‘Okay no problem!,’ ” she says. “We may not be good at all of it, but they’ve become very versatile horses and I’ve become a better rider.” The versatility Dudley and Mae Mae have developed is something Lise is particularly proud of and it’s recognized by the Canadian Horse Preservation Society. The organization awards points for horses that exemplify the versatility that is highly valued in the breed, resulting in awards. “Mae Mae received her bronze medal last summer, and Dudley has earned both bronze and silver medals,” Lise says. “He’s twenty-two years old now, and my goal is to get him to his gold medal before he retires.” She has him well on his way, trying new activities like TREC. Techniques de Randonnée Équestre de Compétition, which roughly translates as competition of the techniques of riding out in the countryside, is a European three-phase sport that includes orienteering, control of paces, and obstacle courses. “He’s doing really well with it, we’re having a lot of fun learning!” Lise says.

New England Saddle Fit Lise has become more versatile, too, and not just in her riding endeavors. After watching a saddle fitter come work on her horses, Lise became infatuated with the skill and eager to learn more. “This desire to learn led me to sign up for Mike Scott’s saddle fitting course where I’ve attended classroom sessions, done case studies, observed other saddle fitters in the field, volunteered at nonprofit organizations, and completed independent coursework,” says Lise. “After completing more than 300 hours saddle fitting, I’m a graduate of the School of Saddle Fitting and Flocking, a certified saddle fitter.”

“I’ve been saddle fitting alongside my teaching career ever since, and I’ve found myself quite busy.” With her newly honed skills and ‘figure it out’ attitude, Lise established her business, New England Saddle Fit. She specializes in assessing horses and their saddles for optimal fit, and advises horse owners on how to keep their horse most comfortable under saddle. She works with both English and western saddles, and also offers repairs, flocking, and sales. Embracing her new skills, Lise has proven herself to be an attentive and skilled saddle fitter, and clients are routinely happy with her work. “Lise is great to work with and so patient,” says Logan Ebbets. “My Quarter Horse is a super hard-to-fit guy and she’s patiently examined, flocked, and readjusted multiple saddles for us. My horse went from having chronic back pain to returning to full training. Saddle fit was one piece of that puzzle. Lise has been a pleasure to work with and a great resource. We’re so lucky to have her services in our community.” Even with recent success and a swelling client base thanks to referrals, Lise knows there’s always more to learn, and is constantly developing her technique. “Saddle fitting looked easy to me at first, but I was quickly proven wrong,” Lise says. “Even now, the more I learn, the more I realize how much more there is to learn. It’s like trying to figure out the pieces of a puzzle; some cases are straightforward but others are more complex. I like the challenge.” Lise continues to challenge herself by further pursuing her education. She’s embarked on a journey to become a qualified saddle fitter under the Society of Master Saddlers, the largest and most highly regarded association for the trade. “In April, I took an introductory course, which began the three-to-four-year program that will qualify me for this title,” Lise says. “I learned so much in that one course, and I’m eager to continue.” Above all, Lise enjoys the connections she makes with people and horses in offering this service. “I love going out to barns and working with lots of different people and their horses,” she says. “It’s a pleasure to share my knowledge, and very satisfying to help both horse and rider achieve comfort.” The comfort, happiness, and wellbeing of the horse is always at the forefront of all Lise does, whether it’s with her clients’ horses or her own. Her

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partner, Jo, is an equine massage therapist, so their skills and sensitivities to equine comfort are always working toward keeping horses feeling their best. Their herd certainly benefits, as can be seen from how happily and peacefully they comingle and thrive in the backyard sanctuary Lise and Jo have created for them. “They’re my buddies — more than that — they’re my family members,” Lise says. “These horses give me great joy.” 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

Lend a Hoof

Athol

New England Equestrian Center

by Laurie Neely

n the late 1990s, a half dozen horse enthusiasts in the north central region of Massachusetts began to dream of developing an equestrian park that they, and all horse enthusiasts in the region, could enjoy. Wouldn’t it be wonderful, they thought, to have a place for trail riding, clinics, and competitions? When a large parcel of land off New Sherborn Road in Athol became

than 200 members, who, along with other riders and drivers, enjoy the two outdoor arenas, a trail system with an optional low-level event course, a confidence/versatility course, landscaped stadium seating for spectators, and extensive parking for trucks and trailers. “Having been involved with NEECA when it was still just a dream, it gives me great satisfaction to witness its evolution into the amazing facility and

One of the New England Equestrian Center of Athol’s arenas.

available for purchase, Elwin Bacon and the members of this original committee worked on a grant application on behalf of the town, which acquired the property and then put the property’s management under the New England Equestrian Land Management Conservation Corporation (NEELMCC), a nonprofit formed with a mission of developing land set aside for the specific purpose of equestrian use. NEELMCC then in turn created the municipal nonprofit New England Equestrian Center of Athol (NEECA), a membership organization dedicated to creating and maintaining the more than 250 acres that now make up the equestrian park in Athol. NEECA’s mission is “to preserve and protect land for equine interests, while promoting good horsemanship and educating equestrians for the betterment of the horse, now, and for the generations to follow.” Today, the organization has more 18

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wonderful organization that it has become today,” says board member Caroline Mansfield. “I can remember our first work day in 2000 when we literally spent the entire day just cutting down and burning brush in order to begin opening up a tiny bit of clear land. Fast forward to the present and I can hardly believe what NEECA now has to offer equestrians of all disciplines. And, we did it one bake sale at a time.” The main arena is 240' x 100' and a second arena can be divided into two smaller ones for warm-up spaces or a dressage ring. A generator powers the public address system, but through fundraising efforts — grants, horse shows, clinics, auctions, and a capital drive planned for this year — electricity is going to be brought into the park to provide arena lights and more. “Nearly all of NEECA’s offerings were paid for by the fundraisers that

NEECA sponsors throughout each year to raise money for the park’s continued development,” says Caroline. “These events are the result of hundreds of volunteers giving thousands of hours of their time and talent over the years to help NEECA grow and thrive.” The arena is available to rent for schooling, and the entire park can be rented by organizations wishing to hold events there.

Carol Boudreau and Anne Zukowski.

The three miles of interconnected trails that wander throughout the acreage will soon be expanded to include access from the park grounds to local trails. A large field on the trail system is the site of regularly held driving nights and an annual overnight horse camping event. Near the field is a professionally built, fenced confidence/versatility course with a teeter-totter, bridges, pool noodle obstacles, and other opportunities to practice and enjoy versatility competitions in a safe environment. The main arena at the park is home to a variety of events including the extremely popular gymkhana series. Once a month from April through October, equestrians of all skill levels and disciplines gather at the park to play games on horseback in both western and English saddles or with carts and carriages. Moms and dads lead toddlers through the patterns at a walk;

many adults and kids do them at a walk, trot, or quiet canter, and still others race to beat their own and their competitor’s times. End-of-the-year awards for all levels include custom belt buckles. Fun is the key word at NEECA. Throughout the riding season there are trail rides, a Youth Fun Day for the youth members and their friends, versatility events, a ridden scavenger hunt, and the overnight campout with horses that includes great food, games, and a ride at night. The annual June Equestrian Showcase was especially entertaining and successful this year. Drill team competitions and breed demonstrations in the morning were followed by an informal, all-discipline show in the afternoon with prizes and a day-end award for the most versatile horse and rider. The schedule for the year always includes a variety of clinics with opportunities to spend time with other riders and friends to catch up on news and have a good time. A series of dressage clinics, both classical and western, with clinician Cathy Drumm, have become a staple at NEECA, along with the annual spring three-day clinic with clinician and author Susan Harris. To date this year, NEECA has also hosted wellattended clinics on topics as diverse as trailer safety, saddle fitting, and barrel racing. Others may be added as the season continues. “NEECA has become a focal point for educational, recreational, and social activities for numerous horse lovers in the region,” says Caroline. “If you have a horse, or just love them, when you join NEECA you instantly become part of a community. I’m very proud when I hear people comment, and it happens frequently, that our organization is so welcoming and supportive. I believe that our reputation for hosting well run, diverse events that promote good horsemanship is just as important as the actual park itself, and yet another reason why NEECA is unique.” In addition to the clinics and events held at the park, NEECA puts on a popular horse show each year. The show is one of the five shows in the Barre Riding and Driving Club series held at Felton Field in Barre. The NEECA show includes entertainment during the lunch break and an outstanding food booth — not just hotdogs and burgers, but salads, sand-

wiches, and more in partnership with another local organization: Dare to Dream Educational Farm Program. Coordination with other equestrian groups is important to NEECA. All of the programs bearing the NEECA name are open to the public, as is use of the park’s trails, and participation by local riding programs and clubs is welcome and encouraged. Of course, membership is encouraged too. Members receive a discount rate at NEECA events, five percent off horse-related product purchases at Tractor Supply in Orange, five percent off new equipment purchases up to $250 at Padula Brothers, a discount on wellness exams at Family Pet Vet in Athol, a free online subscription to Massachusetts Horse, and ten percent off a HorseBack & Body equine massage by Jo Bunny. At neeca.org, you can find a complete schedule of upcoming events with the contact names for each event, news and pictures from past events, information on membership, and forms for event registration. NEECA is committed to providing safe events and requires the use of helmets at all times for everyone under the age of 18, and for adults who have not signed an opt-out waiver, at all of the organization’s events. A Facebook page (New England Equestrian Center of Athol) is also regularly updated with news, photos, and information including the gymkhana patterns for each month. As NEECA has grown and developed, it’s become a focal point in the equestrian lives of many people. Board of directors member Anne Zukowski says when she first moved to Petersham she didn’t know any other horse people, but in 2010 when she attended a NEECA event things began to change.

“My life has been drastically changed in positive ways as a result of NEECA,” she says. “I’ve met so many amazing individuals who’ve been there for support and my world has completely opened up to many new friends, experiences, training, fun adventures, and increased knowledge.” A conversation among a handful of people 17 years ago, and the shared dream that grew out of this conversation, developed remarkable momentum that led to the creation of more than 250 acres of land set aside for equestrian use. “We lost NEECA’s ‘founding father’ Elwin Bacon last year,” says Caroline. “But his dream to create a municipal equestrian horse park that welcomes horse lovers of all disciplines, interests, and skill levels lives on in NEECA. We’re all very grateful for his vision and continue to work hard to make sure NEECA lives up to that dream.” Anne’s enjoyed helping with the fulfillment of the original organizers’ dream. Musing on the role NEECA has played in her life to-date, Anne says she hopes “to continue to serve NEECA as a board member, adding value to what the original founders envisioned, by helping, along with the membership and equestrian community, to grow and develop the organization and park facilities for many more years to come.” To learn more about NEECA’s programs, memberships, and volunteer opportunities, visit neeca.org. Laurie Neely is a lifelong horsewoman who rides and drives a small in stature, but large in attitude, mule. She’s a retired communications professional, providing freelance writing and editing services for a variety of academic and other clients. Laurie is on the NEECA board of directors.

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Horse Logic

Setting Your Horse Up for by Nicole Birkholzer

Success

ecently, I read an article describing the human brain’s bias to look for things that are present while it’s harder for us to notice things that are absent. The article offered a plausible explanation for why, when working with horses, we are much quicker to notice the horse misbehaving than to notice when the horse is offering what we expect of him. In the article, the author used the following example: A young gelding would rub his head on the trainer during bridling and each time he did, the trainer gently but firmly pushed the horse’s head away. The horse was not punished for the misdemeanor, but also was not allowed to continue. Then one day the horse held his head forward during bridling. The author explained that in doing so the horse had basically asked the question, Is this what you want? Unfortunately, because our brains are less likely to notice the absence of misbehavior, the trainer didn’t realize the horse had asked the question. Because the horse had not been rewarded for offering the desired behavior, he still didn’t know what he should do. How fascinating. The horse is repeatedly corrected for a certain behavior, but then when he does it right we don’t acknowledge him. As humans, we may tend to focus on what’s not right and at the expense of overlooking what is right. As the author of the article pointed out, in order to survive there’s little benefit to identifying the absence of berries on a bush and a lot of benefit to finding berries on a bush. We spend much of our time thinking about the past or the future. While interacting with our horses we may be thinking about our past ride, an earlier conversation with a friend, or what we will be doing later that day, and only a misbehavior pulls us into the present moment. In order to notice positive behaviors, we must be fully present with our horses, because positive behaviors don’t show up on our radar with the same intensity as negative behaviors. It

August/September 2018

1. Step next to your horse’s head, take a deep belly breath, and ask, “Please put your nose into the halter.” Be prepared for your horse not to follow your request immediately. Simply take another belly breath, ask again, and wait while breathing with awareness.

2. Your horse might dip his nose into the halter and take it out again. Take a breath and ask again.

3. When your horse does as you asked, take a breath and thank him for partnering with you.

takes more effort for us to notice the good our horse is offering. And, when we don’t provide that positive feedback, the horse is left hanging in the balance — still uncertain what to do. When we miss the opportunity to reward the right behavior, we set our horses up to fail, to be uncertain, and to get frustrated. Imagine you show up at a new job and your boss only tells you what not to do: please, don’t sit in that chair. Or, don’t go down that hallway; don’t call that client. How many tries do you have in you? How can you learn what’s expected of you? How quickly would you feel defeated and ready to leave that job? To set our horse up for success, we can start by sharing our expectations. I’m an advocate of using words with our horses because our words carry an energy that can be understood by animals. When bridling the horse, I ask, “Please put your nose into the bridle,” as I hold the tack out in front of the horse’s head. As soon as my horse follows my lead, I acknowledge him by saying, “thank you.” Or, when I need to palpate my horse’s swollen left hock I say, “Please stand still for a moment while I check your hock.” When I’m done, I verbally praise him for his efforts to work with me. Asking our horse for what we need from him provides the framework for good communication. There will be times when it’s harder for a horse to follow “the ask,” either because he’s new to the task or he may be in pain. But, when we take a conscious breath and tune in to our horse, we can recognize how to support him in those moments. Sometimes, we simply need to ask a second time and give the horse a chance to respond. Or, we might need to frame the request more clearly to convey our intent. When we are present and in dialog with our horse, we set the stage for great communication and the opportunity for a better partnership. Nicole Birkholzer is on a mission to understand the logic behind our horses’ behaviors. Contact her and learn more at mindful-connections.com.

Massachusetts Horse

Trail Guide Chittenden

by Stacey Stearns

Mountain Top Inn & Resort

original inn and it was rebuilt. A small group of investors purchased the inn in 2002, and have been making improvements and updates ever since. The hallways of the main lodge showcase photos of activities, awards the resort has received, and famous guests, including President Eisenhower who visited on a fishing expedition in 1955. The bar and dining room offer outside

in the Green Mountains of central Vermont overlooking the 740-acre Chittenden Reservoir and the Green Mountain National Forest. The town of Chittenden is a short drive from Killington and Rutland. While the resort is close to many amenities, the drive up Mountain Top Road quickly sweeps you into another world. The rugged beauty of the reservoir and Green Mountains with the backdrop of blue skies is captivating. That beauty is coupled with first-class accommodations and recreation, including an equestrian center.

patio seating. Historic photos, including a few of horses, line the walls. There’s a rustic-luxe vibe throughout the entire resort. Rooms and areas of the main lodge are decorated with an equestrian theme. The common area has couches and tables with floor-to-ceiling glass windows overlooking the water. Cabins and guesthouses are also available for those who prefer more privacy or need a larger space. The restaurant and bar are first rate and the food was superb. I had a spacious room with a view of the lake. Mountain Top Inn & Resort’s property intertwines with and borders Green Mountain National Forest, the state’s largest contiguous landmass at 399,151 acres. Three national trails run through the national forest: the Appalachian Trail, the Long Trail, and the Robert Frost National Recreation Trail. The land on the opposite side of the Chittenden Reservoir is part of the Green Mountain National Forest so the pristine views enjoyed from the resort will never be developed. Guests can enjoy numerous activi-

ties, as the resort is a year-round destination. Amenities include a heated pool and hot tub; the lake with various water sports and the beach; disc golf; tennis; a spa; hiking and mountain biking trails; 60 kilometers of trails for cross-country skiing; snowmobile trails; and clay bird shooting. The equestrian center and clay bird shooting are open to the public/non-overnight guests.

The Resort The location was originally the Long Family’s Turnip Farm, established in 1871. William Barstow, an engineer and philanthropist from New York (and friend of Thomas Edison), converted the barn to a wayside tavern in 1940 as a hobby for his wife Francoise. William Wolfe started running the tavern in 1946 and bought it in 1947, changing the name to Mountain Top Inn. A fire in 1977 destroyed most of the 22

August/September 2018

Stacey Stearns

courtesy of Mountain Top Inn

or those who like to explore the world, but prefer their view to be framed between the ears of a horse, the opportunity to ride your own horse or one of Mountain Top Inn & Resort’s horses on the 35 miles of trails that loop around the resort and through Green Mountain National Forest is too good to pass up. The resort is nestled on 700 acres

A Leg Up When you drive up Mountain Top Road, the resort is on your right. Parking is on the opposite side of the road. (Just past the resort is a dead end road leading into the national forest.) Take a left on the road after the parking area and drive up the hill; the equestrian center is on the right. Beyond the equestrian center are guesthouses managed by the resort. A team of Percherons and a team of Belgians owned by the resort reside at the equestrian center. The teams provide carriage and sleigh rides and have been in countless weddings. The rest of the horses at the equestrian center are leased from nearby Pond Hill Ranch in Castleton. Many of the same horses return each year, with only two new horses in this year’s herd as there were a couple of retirements at the end of the season last year. More than 20 horses are available for riding lessons and trail rides, May through October. Louise Bienieki manages the equestrian center and has worked at Mountain Top Inn & Resort for 18

years. As I pulled in, Louise was driving Tiny, a Percheron gelding down the road in a white carriage, practicing for a Thursday afternoon wedding. The barn staff was waiting for me, and the stall was ready for my horse with pine shavings and hay in the corner feeder. After I unloaded Kerry Killarney (a.k.a. Johnny), I parked across the street by the gift shop, maintenance barns, and wedding knoll. I didn’t unhook the trailer, choosing to walk the short distance between the main lodge and equestrian center. A tack and feed area are in the center of the open and airy barn. A long aisle with box stalls on one side and tie stalls on the other flank the feed and tack area. The horses have large paddocks that connect to grass pastures. There’s a small isolation paddock available for boarders (guests of the inn who bring their own horses), and one of the two riding rings is just steps away from the barn door. An exterior fence and gate ensures that if any horses get loose, they cannot get to the road. “There aren’t a lot of places in Vermont where you can go and ride out on the trails with your horse,” Louise says. “Boarders come to Mountain Top to do that here.” I rode with Louise on my first day at the resort, and with Katie, one of the longtime staff members, on the second day. Boarders are also welcome to ride out on their own. All of the trails are marked and the staff provides a detailed, color map of the 35mile trail system available to equestrians. Out Riding It On the first day of my visit we rode approximately five miles of the wooded trails and forest roads between the inn and the lake. The wedding knoll and cross-country course are both in the expansive field across from the barn and up the hill from the main lodge. There are incredible views from this field. We rode past a wedding rehearsal on the knoll as we headed down the hill toward the reservoir to see the view. (Horses aren’t allowed on the beach or in the water.) The trails are superbly groomed. On the first day of riding I didn’t see a single downed tree, and those of you who trail ride know what a feat this is. The equestrian center staff dedicates countless hours to trail maintenance on horseback and on foot. Mountain Top Inn & Resort also helps maintain the

trails in the national forest, and this was evident as we rode through the forest on the second day of my visit. I do recommend shoes and pads though; the trails are rocky in places. I heard birds singing while out riding and walking around Mountain Top Inn & Resort, but mostly there was a quiet, comforting stillness. That evening, as I sat in the grass on the knoll overlooking the inn and reservoir with Green Mountain National Forest as their backdrop, I was reminded of why John Muir said, “The mountains are calling and I must go.” On day two we rode toward the main lodge and took a left onto the dead end road that leads to the national forest. As we were riding down the dirt road we came across a kaleidoscope of Monarch butterflies in the road that fluttered off as we passed. We also saw birds, a few chipmunks, toads, and one puddle full of tadpoles. Over the years, staff has seen coyotes, white-tailed deer, black bears, and moose. We rode over five large wooden bridges and up and down hills. Most of the trail was shaded. The first section of the trail was a lollipop shape, and when we came back out to the road our horses galloped up the hill toward the inn. Then we took a right on another dead end dirt road to explore the ridge trails. We came out at a picnic area where you could look down on the lake and see the main lodge’s roof off to the right — we really did a lot of climbing! The next morning I woke early and fed Johnny because staff doesn’t get to the equestrian center until 8 a.m., and I feed earlier at home. Their horses are out all night, so the staff starts a bit later. I also went to the equestrian center the prior evening for a night check. Day two’s ride was 10–12 miles, and I didn’t repeat any of the trails. A return trip to Mountain Top Inn & Resort is in my future. Miles of trails still need to be explored and the vistas aglow with fall foliage are sure to add another layer of stunning beauty to the landscape. A three-day stay is ideal if you’re just trail riding and want to ride about 10 miles a day. A five-day stay with some time down at the lake, by the pool, and just relaxing could also be fun. Happy trails! Stacey Stearns, a lifelong equestrian from Connecticut, enjoys trail riding and endurance with her Morgan horses.

we speak fluent neigh!

Pasture Board, Stalls, and Run-outs All-day Turnout for Everyone Indoor Arena . Round Pen . Heated Tack Room Sand/Rubber Footing Outdoor Arena Boarding . Training Horses . Onsite Leases Lessons with Licensed Instructor Owner is an eventer; open to all riding styles!

Kate Cameron . 4 Plain Road, Hatfield, Mass. (978) 739-4707 . RedMareFarm.com redmarefarmllc@gmail.com Massachusetts Horse

Overherd

News in Our Community Old North Bridge Hounds (ONBH) is pleased to announce that Stuart Greenberg and Thomas B. Moran have been designated Masters of the Foxhounds (MFH) by the hunt. Stu and Tom are longtime members of ONBH and both have served as president and in numerous other positions within the hunt over the years. Each has dedicated countless hours in support of the hunt and hunt activities. Stu and Tom join MFH Marjorie Franko and MFHHuntsman Virginia Zukatynski as joint masters. Stu began riding as an adult. He became a member of ONBH in 1989 and earned his colors in 1992. He

August/September 2018

served as president for 15 years. He’s also a member with colors of the South

Tampa, Florida area. Stu graduated from the University of Pennsylvania,

ONBH Welcomes Two New Masters

Old North Bridge Hounds designated two new Masters of the Foxhounds, Stuart Greenberg with Cloudy and Thomas B. Moran with Kross.

Creek Foxhounds, formerly Two Rivers Hounds, in the

and later received his PhD from MIT in electrical engi-

neering. He’s worked at IBM, DEC (Digital Equipment Corporation), and Fidelity Investments, and specializes in IT (information technology) and biotech business development. Stu has been a private consultant and entrepreneur for the past 20 years. Tom started riding as a youngster, and began hunting with the Fort Leavenworth Hunt in Kansas when he was 13. He earned his colors shortly thereafter and continued to hunt with Fort Leavenworth until he moved to Massachusetts. He became a member of ONBH in 2007, and served as president for four years. He’s enjoyed hunting in Ireland. Tom has 41 years of law enforcement experience, and retired from

the Lincoln Police after 39 years of service. He’s a graduate of the Massachusetts Police Academy and Northeastern University. Tom’s currently a communications consultant for the Metropolitan Boston Homeland Security Region.

n Susan Goldfischer

Creating Art And Saving Horses As a portrait artist and small business owner, Danielle StJean understands the importance of community and giving back. In fact, this is the core foundation her business is built on, doing what she can to give back. “It’s good for the spirit and strengthens our social bond,” says Danielle. “If we’re lucky, our paths just might cross with a group of do-gooders that hit you right in the heart . . . hard,” says Danielle. “I’ve always had an affinity, let’s be honest, an obsession, with horses; but they were never a big part of my daily life beyond the awkward gawking out the car window with every farm we passed. Eventually, I said ‘Enough is enough, I need to be hands-on,’ and started taking formal lessons. Little did I know I had set my heart on a collision course with some of the most wonderful people I’ve ever met.” “The Central New England Equine Rescue (CNEER)in West Brookfield is an all-volunteer nonprofit sustained by the generosity and hard work of others,” Danielle says. “I’ve never seen a more devoted group of people. The soul-fulfilling satisfaction of seeing a horse go from skin and bones to a healthy, happy horse with the spark of life in his eyes is the greatest reward.” “I’ve merged my art and my awe for CNEER with Art For Equines,” says Danielle. “Art For Equines is my fine art equine portraiture that donates a portion of every equine portrait session directly to CNEER. With each equine portrait session a horse is either fed for a month, or sees the farrier twice, or it buys four bags of grain or 20 bags of shavings for the horses. The hope is to eventually contribute to multiple equine rescues.” To learn more, visit danirenee portraits.com.

City to Saddle Provides Riding Experiences More than 100 Massachusetts youth who would ordinarily not have the opportunity are participating in riding programs at six different stables this

Summer Wrap-Up Auction! August 19 . New and Used Tack, Equipment, Horses & Ponies

Watch videos and view photos at HeritageFarmEasthampton.com. see Call us to s and new horse s! ponie

WNEPHA Hunter Show Sept. 30 English & Western Lessons, Clinics, Training

ook Follow us on Faceb to see new horses!

Open to buy, sell, and trade horses 7 days a week, by appointment. Nice Horses for Nice People. The R aucher Family 30 Florence Rd., Easthampton, MA (413) 527-1612 HeritageFarmEasthampton.com State Auctioneer license # AU450

summer through the City to Saddle organization. Mesa Farm in Rutland is hosting 10 youth per week for six weeks of summer riding for students in the Worcester area. Wild Star Farm in Sherborn has 24 youth from various groups and agencies over four weeks of summer riding programs. Rein In a Dream in Lancaster is teaching 10 youth from school-based programs riding weekly for a six-week period. Andover’s Windrush Farm gives seasonal weekly lessons and assistance for several youth in a weeklong summer riding program while Windsong Farm in Brewster

instructs up to four youth in a weeklong summer riding program. Acton’s Bear Spot Farm has two students from the Whittemore Public School in Waltham. City to Saddle is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization staffed entirely by volunteers and sponsors the riding experiences for students demonstrating financial need through the support of donors and fundraising events. To learn more, visit citytosaddle.org.

n Dale Perkins

Channing’s Blood Transfusion The most recent addition at Bay State Equine Rescue in Oakham is a mule Massachusetts Horse

excellent care but the hospital charges quickly added up making it challenging for our rescue to be able to pay for his treatment. He had intense after-care treatments

State Equine Rescue in Oakham. Pick-up times will be between 9 and 11 a.m. with a minimum order of 10 bags. For those ordering up to 199 bags, the price per bag is $4.90; 200 bags and up $4.75 per bag. Shavings come in plastic bags. To learn more, email Sharon at sah@baystaterescue.org.

help him. We’re excited to see what his future holds! Everyone at the rescue is grateful for all the generosity and support from our community during such a scary

n Lynda Mockler and Karin Orsi

Devon Horse Show

Dani Renee Portraits

named Channing. In the few months we’ve had him, he’s stolen all our hearts. Mules are completely sterile but he was showing some stallionlike tendencies so we decided it would be best to geld him. During his surgery, we encountered unexpected complications. Channing’s incision was not clotting and we had to transport him to Tufts Large Animal Hospital for a blood transfusion and surgery to find the source of the bleeding and cauterize the area. It was a challenge to find blood that matched our mule. Several of our volunteers found mules in the area, and blood samples were taken to try and find a match for Channing. Luckily, we finally found a match and the transfusion was successful. Channing had his surgery and everything went smoothly. He recovered well and spent a few nights at the hospital. Channing received

Dani Renee Portraits is donating a portion of every equine portrait sesson to the Central New England Equine Rescue.

that were difficult to administer to a mule that was feral just a few months ago. Channing is now back at the rescue where he continues to experience the kindness of humans, and learning that we’re here to

time. We would not have been able to fund Channing’s wonderful care at Tufts without everyone’s help. The Save on Shavings Sale will be Saturday, October 20, at Camp Marshall in Spencer or Bay

Several Massachusetts residents traveled to Devon, Pennsylvania for the annual Devon Horse Show and Country Fair. The 122nd annual event was held May 24 to June 3, and it lived up to its rich history of worldclass competitions as well as a fun and exciting country fair with rides, great food, and shopping choices. David and Kristen Cater of Cater Stables coached several Massachusetts riders and their horses into the winner’s circle of the Dixon Oval. For the third year in a row, and

Custom Made Jumps, Tack Trunks, Bit Boxes, and More! View photos at saltydawgequine.com and on Facebook. Jump rentals too!

Tack Shop & Consignment Area

Dublin . Tuff Rider . Saxon . Noble Outfitters . Horze . Shires . Ariat Weatherbeeta . Tough 1 . Professional’s Choice . Roma . Absorbine

Barn Supplies . 1st & 2nd Cut Hay Paper-bagged Shavings . Grain Livestock . Poultry . Wild Bird Seed Dog, Cat, Small Animal, and Reptile Pickup and Delivery!

Official supplier of Rhode Island Equitation Championships!

Salty Dawg Equine Services Stefhanie Connors

(508) 259-6924

SaltyDawgEquine.com 26

August/September 2018

Orleton Farm in Stockbridge always have beautiful turnouts in the coaching division at Devon, whether they are driving a four-in-hand or pair. This year,

Angela Powers

the fourth time in their career together, CH Attaches Chocolate Thunder and Lynda St. Andre of Taunton won the Country Pleasure Driving

Eight-year-old Shantel Owusu of Worcester rides Judy, a Belgian/Percheron cross, in a vaulting activity as part of a recent summer riding program at Mesa Farm in Rutland through the City to Saddle program.

Championship at Devon. This is quite an accomplishment in any division at this prestigious show. The Junior Exhibitor Three-Gaited Show Pleasure Champion was CH Graceful Surprise, ridden by Chloe Hauville of Byfield. Boston resident Alex Frangiosa was reserve in the Junior xhibitor/Amateur Three-Gaited Park Stake. She was riding her 10-year-old gelding The Kings Watchman. Rodney Hicks of Rodney Hicks Stable in Richmond always brings an exciting string of ponies and horses to Devon. Rodney drove the very popular stallion The Spiderman to the Reserve Open Hackney Pony Championship. Edward Ochsenschlager is the owner. Stepping it up a notch, Rodney drove My Casey to the Roadster to Bike Championship. Owner Ricky Harris drove the Standardbred to reserve honors in the qualifying class. Ricky’s wife Cheryl Innis drove One Hot Mamma to the Reserve Road Pony Championship. Driving under Rodney’s direction, Maureen Quackenbush won the Amateur Harness Pony Championship with Cracker Jack. The ever popular Jackie O and Danny Hicks were back in the Dixon Oval winner’s circle as the Road Pony Champions. Darla Wright of High Tail Acres in Newbury was reserve in the Open Three-Gaited Park class. She was riding Kalarmas Hollywood Lights. The liver chestnut gelding is owned by Conor Patrick Henry. Harvey and Mary Stokes Waller of

with their four-in-hand, Harvey was reserve in the Coaching Appointments class. Equine enthusiasts try to keep the Devon Horse Show on their calendar every year. It’s the largest outdoor multibreed competition in the country.

n Suzy Lucine

Massachusetts Horse

Partners Our goal is to foster connections within the horse community throughout the Bay State, and one of the ways we do this is with our Partners Program. Massachusetts organizations that partner with us receive a free one-year subscription for each member and space in the magazine for news, photos, and event listings.

BSTRA has a full calendar for August and September. August 5 is the Lake Dennison Pleasure Ride in Royalston. The trails at Lake Dennison are wonderful. BSTRA has permanently marked a 10mile route. August 19 BSTRA is holding a joint ride with the

is September 23. Be sure to register early for this ride to be eligible for a great goody bag. There will be vendors and a scrumptious lunch. To learn more or to sign up, visit bstra.org. See you on the trails! 7 Annamaria Paul

BSTRA’s annual Lea MacInnis Judged Ride was held on June 24. The 6.5mile ride, sponsored by Paresky, Flitt & Company, was held at the Hodges Village Dam in Oxford. In preparation for the event, BSTRA volunteers cleared out brush and rocks on the trails. One of the bridges had been moved by recent high water. It offered a perfect natural water-crossing obstacle. The Hodges Village Dam property is managed by the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers. There are miles of trails suitable for horseback riding. Some skirt along the French River and wind through the woods. There are long stretches suitable for a canter or hand gallop for those who enjoy a faster pace. Riders were scored on how well they navigated a series of challenges that a well-trained trail horse should be able to do. Many, like crossing a bridge and passing through a gate, represented obstacles trail riders encounter frequently. Others tested more traditional riding skills like backing up and side passing. Awards were given out in the Junior, Adult, and Open Divisions. Carolyn Weeks and her Mustang Mr. Spock took high-point champion and the Lea MacInnis Award. Big thanks go to the volunteers and judges, too numerous to name here. Without their hard work, the ride would not have been such a success. 28

August/September 2018

Becky Kalagher

Bay State Trail Riders Association

Mark Howe riding Elias at the Bay State Trail Riders Association’s annual Lea MacInnis Judged Ride on June 24 in Oxford.

Hampshire County Riding Club members in the Chesterfield Fourth of July Parade.

Reddington Rock Riding Club in Stafford, Connecticut. The Northfield Mountain Pleasure Ride is August 26. The view from the top of Northfield Mountain is spectacular! September 16 is the Fall Hunter Pace at Douglas State Forest. There will be plenty of optional jumps along the course. BSTRA’s Fall Fundraiser Pleasure Ride in North Scituate Rhode Island

Hampshire County Riding Club The past few months have been busy ones for the club with activities at the club grounds and elsewhere. At the beginning of June, we held an open house for members and their horses at the club grounds where riders could practice their skills on the woodland obstacle course, trails, and in the rings. It was a great opportu-

nity to socialize and introduce young horses to new surroundings. Our June meeting, at Carrier’s Farm in Southampton, featured Lise Krieger of New England Saddle Fit. Using equine model Chip, Lise showed us how to determine proper saddle placement, length, and tree width along with an assortment of saddle types to choose from. She demonstrated the importance of a fitting evaluation before making a saddle purchase. Not only does Lise fit saddles, she also flocks, repairs, and sells saddles. Our trail ride through the Chesterfield Gorge along the Westfield River to Indian Hollow Campground was almost canceled due to fluctuating weather forecasts. In the end, the rain held off and we had a perfect day. Members participated in the Chesterfield July Fourth Parade delighting spectators with decorated horses. The camping weekend at Wagon Wheel Campground in late July provided an opportunity for a terrific camping experience with covered enclosures for horses, bathrooms with showers, and a swimming pool to cool off after a day in the saddle. We’ve made this an annual club event. August looks quiet, and on September 9, we will ride in the Hawley State Forest, picking up trails used by the Cross-State Trail Rides. In the fall we’ll hold our annual potluck Foliage Ride at the Northfield Mountain Recreation Center, and follow that up with the annual beach ride at Hammonasset State Park in Connecticut. All club rides are open to members and their guests. To learn more, visit hampshirecountyridingclub.org and follow us on Facebook. 7 Diane Merritt

North Shore Horsemen’s Association We held our first pleasure show of the season on June 3 at Bob-Lyn Stables in Amesbury. The weather was perfect and we had a great turnout. The judges for the day were Holly Scribner from Maine and Kathy Keefe from New Hampshire. A number of barns attended including Lanes End Farm, Indian Rock Stables, Chestnut Stables, Dar-Col Stables, and others. We also ran the five Massachusetts Horsemen’s Council Classics. Winners in these divisions received a director’s chair as their prize. All other prizes were donated by SmartPak. We’re forever grateful for their generosity. Our next horse show will be July 15 at Bob-Lyn Stables. Judges for the day will be John Lampropulos and Natalie McGowen from New Hampshire. For a show prize list and entry form, visit northshorehorsemens.org, our Facebook page, or email twinhills56@yahoo.com for more information Come and have a great time with us. 7 JoAnn Hamson

A big thanks to the riders and horses that turned out and helped support our hounds, and the members and friends who worked tirelessly for the event. Save the date! ONBH’s next Hunter Pace event will be held October 14 across the beautiful land surrounding Red Rail Farm in Lincoln.

working with our hounds to join us. Stay tuned for updates on ONBH’s 50th anniversary celebration. There will be a Hunt Ball on September 14, 2019 at the tent in the gardens of the Wayside Inn. The tent has a dance floor and we’re planning a delicious dinner and fun, fun, fun! Mark your calendars. To learn more about all our events, visit oldnorthbridgehounds.org. You can sign up to receive email announcements of our activities by visiting the website. Guest riders and spectators are welcome to join us at all of our hunts and events. If you’re interested in riding with us as a guest at one of our hunts or are interested in our other activities, please contact Master of Foxhounds and Huntsman Ginny Zukatynski at (508) 751-3315 in advance of the scheduled hunt or event. If you’d like to be a part of our hunt by assisting from the ground or would like come out and see what it’s all about feel free to join us. 7 Susan Goldfischer

of the ONBH hounds were there to display their winning personalities and skills as they ran a demo drag. ONBH members and friends gathered on a toasty, but otherwise perfect, weather day for the annual July 4 barbecue at Red Rail Farm. A huge shout-out to Kim Johnson for hosting us at his picturesque farm for

Horse show exhibitors from the North Shore Horsemen’s Association June 3 Pleasure Show at Bob-Lyn Stables in Amesbury.

West Newbury Riding and Driving Club

ONBH kept busy with several fun and exciting events throughout the early summer. Our annual Sidesaddle Clinic with Rhonda Watts Hettinger was held June 2 at Winding Brook Farm in Derry, New Hampshire. As always, the event was a great success with riders and their mounts learning about sidesaddle and varying their usual mode of riding and going aside. Thanks to Rhonda, Winding Brook Farm, and all of the participants and volunteers for making this event a successful annual fundraiser for the hunt. Mother Nature offered up a beautiful day on June 10, perfect for the ONBH Hunter Pace at Great Brook Farm State Park in Carlisle. The pace was a great success.

Sarah Isherwood

Old North Bridge Hounds

Marti Laramee and Markey at the Old North Bridge Hounds Rhonda Watts Hettinger Sidesaddle Clnic on June 2.

On June 21, ONBH and the Groton Pony Club gathered at Hazel Grove Park in Groton for an Introduction to Hunting. ONBH members shared information about hunting including protocols and attire, complete with a mini fashion show, and encouraged the Pony Clubbers to join them for a hunt. And, of course, several

the barbecue and so many other events. A Learn to Hunt event for adult and junior riders is in the works. Stay tuned to our website for the posting of our fall hunt fixture. Fall hunting will begin the latter part of September. Till then, we exercise hounds throughout the summer and fall and welcome folks interested in

Riding,always the high point in all equestrian summers, was rewarding for competitors who participated in WNRDC’s 30th anniversary Pipestave Hill Horse Trials on July 8. The organizing team for the event had been hard at work building new jumps for the cross-country phase and stadium, as well as putting together special prizes and a commemorative program. Of course, our thanks to the original organizer Gail Majauckas, who said that Pipestave “is a great asset for us horse folks and we need to keep it that way.” We’ll hold the second event in this series on October 7. Summer is a time for socializing and barbecues, both of which members Massachusetts Horse

enjoyed Friday, June 22, at the Summer Barbecue where the winner of our Youth Volunteer Scholarship was announced. This year’s winner is Coltin Omasta. He’s continued working on

obstacles in one ring while jumps (including rails on the ground for those who want a little less adventure) are available in another other ring. Come join the fun while we raise funds for

One of the new jumps created by Donna Disario for the West Newbury Riding and Driving Club.

trails, both in town and for the Cross-State Trail Ride. Coltin’s volunteer efforts are much appreciated. September 9 will feature the Adventure Trail. The club’s non-competitive trail ride offers challenging

the Essex County Trail Association and maintenance of the trails in West Newbury. To learn more, visit wnrdc.com. 7 Kathy Feehery

Ventura Stables Opens in Berkley!

Caroline Ventura has more than 25 years experience as an equine professional. Specializing in Western Pleasure, Hunter Pleasure, Saddle Seat, and Halter. All breeds welcome!

Boarding . Training . Lessons . Summer Camp Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation Horse Farm of Distinction Caroline Ventura . 115 South Main Street, Berkley, Mass. (774) 226-0569 . venturastables@gmail.com

venturastables.com 30

August/September 2018

Massachusetts Horse

Montgomery

Neighborly Nickers

Mare’s Nest: Unsticking an Equine Pine-Pitch Dilemma My mare Kolbra, an 18-year-old Icelandic, loves to scratch her neck, shoulders, and butt on the big white pine tree in her two-acre turnout. In the process, she often smears herself with pine pitch, one of the stickiest, most brush-and-shampoo resistant substances on Earth. Pine pitch (also called sap or resin) is virtually impervious to water. Exposed to air, it crystallizes into a substance so rugged and wear-resistant that it can be used to repair holes in your boots if you get lost in the woods. Native Americans used it as a sort of liquid bandage in part because the stuff adheres so tenaciously to skin and hair. Like most Icelandics, Kolbra has a mane and tail that look like they came straight out of a 1980s hair band — long, thick, and plentiful. Add pine pitch to either one, and the result is a large, complicated snarl worthy of the term “mare’s nest.” A pair of scissors or clippers would easily remove the mess, but would also leave noticeable bald spots. No amount of patient detangling will dislodge a pitch ball. Attempts to brush or comb it out are futile. Crystallized resin will soften when it is heated, but it’s very flammable and the risk of burns is too high. Icing pitch is useless; it just gets harder. Nail polish remover is supposed to eliminate pine pitch, but acetone can be very irritating to a horse’s skin. How do you separate pine pitch from horsehair without painfully disrupting your horse’s natural good looks?

August/September 2018

Fortunately, there’s a quick, easy solution. Only three ingredients are needed to solve this sticky problem: Olive oil (or a comparable vegetable-based oil); mild, grease-fighting, liquid dish soap (the kind used to wash dishes by hand, such as Dawn); and warm water. Cover the stuck pitch and the hair around it with olive oil. The oil’s job is to soften and loosen the pitch, so be generous. Leave the oil on your horse for 20 to 30 minutes. Less time is needed if the pitch is spread thin through the hair; more time is required to loosen thick globs. At the end of the soaking period, apply the liquid dish soap directly onto the oily, pitchy area and rub with a damp cloth or sponge to remove the oil and the pitch residue. Finally, rinse the area thoroughly with warm water. Be sure you remove all the soap, or your horse might head back to that pesky pine tree to scratch again. Voilà! You now have a clean, pitch-free horse without scissors, harsh chemicals, or bald spots. Alessandra Mele

by Kara Noble

Kara Noble has a pair of Icelandic mares and a pair of mini donkeys at her farm in Montgomery and has ridden for most of her life. She’s a professional writer and editor and holds an MFA in creative nonfiction. Have a great idea, piece of advice, or tip for your neighbors? Submit your neighborly nicker to neighbor@mahorse.com to win a basket of Absorbine products valued at $50!

Massachusetts Horse Beneﬁt Adventure Trail

September 16, Sunday (rain date September 23) Apple Knoll Farm Equestrian Center, Millis!

5,000 More than $ ards, n aw in prizes, fu uction, ta raﬄe, silen ! and food

What’s an Adventure Trail? It’s a hunter pace, timed obstacle course, and horsemanship knowledge quiz combination. Hunter Pace

Timed Obstacle Course

Horsemanship Knowledge Quiz

Participate in one, two, or all three events.

Approximately seven miles, 15 optional jumps, teams of two/three riders in three divisions: Walk Trot . Trail Rider . Field Hunter

Karen Morang Photography

New location! Apple Knoll Farm r Equestrian Cente in Millis!

Ten obstacles, four divisions: Novice Youth . Novice Adult Open Youth . Open Adult

Fun for riders and nonriders, four divisions: Novice Youth . Novice Adult Open Youth . Open Adult

Alessandra Mele

mahorse.com and follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/MassachusettsHorseBeneﬁtShow

Karen Morang Photography

Alessandra Mele

All proceeds to benefit:

Massachusetts Horse

events Massachusetts

August 1 HHRC MINI SHOW, Hanover. briggsstable.com. 1 SOUTH COAST SERIES JUMPER SHOW, Valinor Farm, Plymouth. valinorfarm.com.

5 SOUTH COAST HUNTER SERIES, Plymouth. southcoastseries.com. 5 SUMMER SCHOOLING EVENT II, Berlin. orchardhillequestriancenter.com.

1 SUMMER JUMPER SHOW SERIES, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. appleknoll.com.

5 POLO, South Hamilton. myopiapolo.org.

1 – 4 CT SUMMER CLASSIC SHOW, Three County Fairgrounds, Northampton. ctasb.com.

5 HRC OPEN SHOW, Balmy Acres, Middleboro. hansonridingclub.org.

9 SUMMER NIGHTS JUMPER SERIES, Groton Fairgrounds. grotonponyclub.org.

3 HORSE POWER TWO-PHASE, Camp Marshall, Spencer. campmarshall.net.

5 BSTRA LAKE DENNISON PLEASURE RIDE, Royalston. bstra.org.

9 – 12 NORTHAMPTON HUNTER/JUMPER, Northampton. biscuithillfarm.com.

3 JUMPER SHOW, Hillside Meadows Equestrian Center, Grafton. hillside-meadows.com.

5 WRC RIDE, Becket. westfieldridingclub.org.

10 – 12 WESTERN DRESSAGE AND OBSTACLES CLINIC, South Hadley. cathydrumm.com.

4 TEAM PENNING, Chipaway Stables, Acushnet. chipawaystables.com. 4 GFF MEDAL, Buzzards Bay. grazingfields.com. 5 WNEPHA JUMPER SHOW, Bonnie Lea Farm, Williamstown. wnepha.com.

8 CATHY DRUMM WESTERN DRESSAGE SERIES, South Hadley. cathydrumm.com.

11 RANCH SORTING, Chipaway Stables, Acushnet. chipawaystables.com.

8 SUMMER JUMPER SHOW SERIES, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. appleknoll.com. 8 HHRC MINI SHOW, Hanover. briggsstable.com. 9 MHC SHOW, Pembroke. herringbrookfarm.com.

HUNTER/EQUITATION SHOWS August 5 August 12 Sept. 2 Sept. 8 Sept. 15 Sept. 23 Sept. 29 Sept. 30 Oct. 7 Oct. 14 Oct. 28

11 CAPE COD HUNTER SHOW, Rozena’s Field, Raynham. capecodhunter.com.

Bonnie Lea Farm (jumpers) White Horse Hill Harmony Hill Blythewood Stables Bellwether Stables (derby/medals) White Horse Hill (jumpers/eq.) Emily Eckstrom Found. Show Heritage Farm FINALS! Harmony Hill Muddybrook Farm

DRESSAGE SHOWS English and Western Tests

August 26 Emerald Glen Sept. 9 Higher Ground Farm Oct. 28 Higher Ground Farm

Scott Porter

4 MHC SHOW, Medway. saddlerowe.com.

5 BRDC SHOW SERIES, Felton Field, Barre. barreridingdrivingclub.com.

11 CNEER ANNUAL BENEFIT PICNIC, Ludlow Elks Club. cneer.com. 11 NEMHS MINIATURE HORSE SHOW, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. nemhs.org. 11 HUNTER PACE, Spencer. campmarshall.net. 12 COMBINED TRAINING SCHOOLING SHOW, Lakeville. belandstables.com. 12 POLO, South Hamilton. myopiapolo.org. 12 USEF SHOW, Holliston. rideaugustfarm.com. 12 DRESSAGE SCHOOLING SHOW, Roberta Carlton “L” judge, Xenophon Farm, Montague. (413) 367-9828 or xenophonfarm@aol.com. 12 SSHC SHOW, Raynham. sshconline.com.

Mount Holyoke equestrian Center

3 – 4 STATE 4-H SHOW, Springfield. mass4h.org.

12 PHILIP WHITMORE TRICK TRAINING AND VERSATILITY CLINIC, Azrael Acres, Uxbridge. azraelacres.com. 12 WRC GAMES DAY, Westfield. westfieldridingclub.org. 12 SCHOOLING DRESSAGE SHOW, Belchertown. independencestablellc.com. 12 MEDAL DAY, Holliston. rideaugustfarm.com. 12 CRDA DRESSAGE SHOW, Millis. crdressage.org. 12 ASHLEY BOIE MEMORIAL SHOW, Felton Field, Barre. (603) 361-5327.

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

WNEPHA.com An organization for horsemen, by horsemen. 34

August/September 2018

15 JUMPER SHOW, Millis. appleknoll.com. 15 HHRC MINI SHOW, Hanover. briggsstable.com. 15 SOUTH COAST SERIES JUMPER SHOW, Valinor Farm, Plymouth. valinorfarm.com.

15 – 18 MASSACHUSETTS MORGAN SHOW, West Springfield. massmorgan.com.

19 SCHOOLING HORSE TRIALS CHAMPIONSHIPS, Millis. appleknoll.com.

15 – 19 SILVER OAK JUMPER TOURNAMENT, Halifax. fieldstoneshowpark.com.

19 MHC SHOW, Haverhill. ridecornerstone.com.

16 MHC NEHC Show, Ipswich. backbayfarm.com.

19 HDA SCHOOLING DRESSAGE SHOW, Briggs Stable, Hanover. heritage-dressage.org.

17 GYMKHANA, Grafton. hillside-meadows.com.

19 POLO, South Hamilton. myopiapolo.org.

17 MHC SHOW, Pembroke. herringbrookfarm.com.

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

18 OPEN SHOW, Uxbridge. azraelacres.com. 18 CCH SHOW, Raynham. capecodhunter.com.

20 – 22 LAINEY ASHKER EVENTING CLINIC, Millis. appleknollfarm.com.

18 – 19 “SUMMA IN THE HAMPTONS” PAINT SHOW, Northampton. nephc.com.

21 – 25 FIELDSTONE SUMMER SHOWCASE, Halifax. fieldstoneshowpark.com.

19 MERRIMACK VALLEY DRESSAGE SHOW, Bradford. (978) 374-0008.

22 SUMMER JUMPER SHOW SERIES, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. appleknoll.com.

19 WASHBURN STABLES OPEN SHOW, Washburn Park, Marion. (774) 451-8909.

22 HHRC MINI SHOW, Hanover. briggsstable.com.

19 CCEA OPEN SHOW, South Yarmouth. ccequineassoc.com. 19 WNEPHA HUNTER SHOW, White Horse Hill, Richmond. wnepha.com. 19 SOUTH COAST HUNTER SERIES, Grazing Fields Farm, Buzzards Bay. southcoastseries.com. 19 BRDC SHOW SERIES, Felton Field, Barre. barreridingdrivingclub.com. 19 MHC SHOW, Grafton. hillside-meadows.com.

Independence Stable

2018 Dressage Schooling Shows Traditional & Western Dressage Tests

22 NORTHEAST WESTERN DRESSAGE CHAMPIONSHIPS, South Hadley. mhcriding.com.

May 5 - “L” judge Doris Carlson June 3 - “L” judge Roberta Carlton Aug. 12 - “L” judge Linda Currie Sept. 9 - “L” judge Krystal Wilt

24 – 26 MIDNIGHT SUMMER CLASSIC, West Springfield. nefhc.com.

Check our Facebook page for updates!

25 RANCH SORTING, Chipaway Stables, Acushnet. chipawaystables.com.

404 S. Washington St. Belchertown, Mass.

25 HORSE TRIALS, Uxbridge. azraelacres.com. 26 DRESSAGE SCHOOLING SHOW SERIES, New Braintree. whitesprucefarms.com.

(413) 284-0371 independencestablellc.com

118th Annual

Myopia Horse Show August 31 to September 2 Myopia Schooling Field, South Hamilton, Mass. $2,500 Myopia Hunter Derby $5,000 Myopia Jumper Classic $1,000 Child/Adult Jumper Classic MHC Medals divisions include: Short Stirrup . NEHC and MHC Medals

Joint Masters

Hunt Night ~ Friday, August 31 Qualified Hunters, Appointment, Hilltoppers, and more.

MIG Equine

Jumper Divisions from 2'3" to 3'6" . Side Saddle Class Qualified Hunter classes, and more.

Wendy Wood & Nicholas White

Manager John Manning

All hunter classes held on the historic Myopia Hunt Field with some new as well as historic permanent jumps.

Technical Advisor

This show is professionally run with good courses in a beautiful setting.

Wendy Wood

Prize list at myopiahunt.org. Massachusetts Horse

1 – 3 BSTRA CAMPOUT, Carver. bstra.org.

9 POLO, South Hamilton. myopiapolo.org.

2 POLO, South Hamilton. myopiapolo.org.

9 OPEN SHOW, Uxbridge. azraelacres.com.

26 CMHSS OPEN SHOW, Spencer. cmhss.net.

2 RECOGNIZED DRESSAGE SHOW, Lakeville. belandstables.com.

9 FALL SCHOOLING EVENT I, Berlin. orchardhillequestriancenter.com.

26 NSHA PLEASURE SHOW, Bob-Lyn Stables, Amesbury. northshorehorsemens.org.

2 HRC OPEN SHOW, Briggs Stable, Hanover. hansonridingclub.org.

9 CRANBERRY CIRCUIT SHOW, Cape Cod Fairgrounds, East Falmouth. (508) 564-0754.

26 CRANBERRY CIRCUIT SHOW, Cape Cod Fairgrounds, East Falmouth. (508) 564-0754.

3 SCARLET APPLE HORSE TRIALS, Groton. appletreefarm.org.

9 WRC 4-H AND OPEN SHOW, Westfield. westfieldridingclub.org.

26 BSTRA NORTHFIELD MOUNTAIN PLEASURE RIDE, Northfield. bstra.org.

5 JUMPER SHOW, Millis. appleknoll.com.

9 GRHC POKER RIDE, Dufresne Park, Granby. granbyregionalhorse.org.

26 MASSACHUSETTS HUNTER/JUMPER FINALS, Halifax. fieldstoneshowpark.com. 26 POLO, South Hamilton. myopiapolo.org.

26 BRIMFIELD TRAIL HUNTER PACE, Grand Trunk Trail, Brimfield. (508) 612-0031. 29 HHRC MINI SHOW, Hanover. briggsstable.com. 29 SUMMER JUMPER SHOW SERIES, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. appleknoll.com. 29 CCH SHOW, Marston Mills. capecodhunter.com. 31 – September 2 MYOPIA HUNT HORSE SHOW, Hamilton. myopiahunt.org.

7 – 9 IFSHA REGION 1 CHAMPIONSHIP, Northampton. newenglandfriesians.com. 7 – 9 NATURAL HORSEMANSHIP CLINIC, Double B Ranch, Plymouth. bobburelli.com. 8 USEA TRIALS, Sherborn. coursebrookshows.com. 8 POLO MATCH, Georgetown. bostonpolo.org. 8 MHC SHOW, Bolton. centurymillstables.com. 8 TEAM PENNING, Acushnet. chipawaystables.com.

September 1 HUNTER FINALS, Medway. capecodhunter.com. 1 POLO MATCH, Georgetown. bostonpolo.org.

8 CNEER ADOPTERS AND FOSTERS MEET AND GREET, West Brookfield. cneer.com. 9 POKER RUN, Millis. appleknollfarm.com.

1 SORTING, Acushnet. chipawaystables.com.

9 SCHOOLING DRESSAGE SHOW, Belchertown. independencestablellc.com.

1 – 2 BLANDFORD FAIR SHOW, Blandford Fairgrounds. blandfordfair.com.

9 HCRC HAWLEY STATE FOREST RIDE, hampshirecountyridingclub.org.

9 MHC PLEASURE CLASSIC, Briggs Stable, Hanover. mahorsecouncil.com. 9 MHC SHOW, Haverhill. ridecornerstone.com. 11 LENDON GRAY DRESSAGE CLINIC, RER Ponies, Hatfield. rerponies.com. 12 SUMMER JUMPER SHOW SERIES FINALE AND AWARDS, Millis. appleknoll.com. 12 – 16 HUNTERS AND HUNT SEAT EQUITATION — ZONE 1 HOTY FINALS, West Springfield. thebige.com/horseshow. 14 GYMKHANA, Grafton. hillside-meadows.com. 15 HRC FIESTA DAY, Balmy Acres, Middleboro. hansonridingclub.org. 15 GRANBY SADDLE CLUB SHOW SERIES, Granby. (413) 530-9003.

“The Classic” Horse Show and Pleasure Finals Sponsored by the Massachusetts Horsemen’s Council Double Point MHC Show Aﬃliated with NEHC, SSHC Open and Breed Classes More than 100 exhibitors compete for great prizes and awards oﬀered in a multitude of Open, Breed, Pleasure, Western, Saddle Seat, and Equitation classes in two rings to ensure a variety of classes.

Sunday, September 9, at Briggs Stable, 623 Hanover Street, Hanover, Mass. Show Begins Promptly at 8 a.m.

Pleasure Classic Finals: Hunter, Saddle Seat, Western WalkTrot Pleasure Classics: MHC Walkt Trot 10 & Under, SSHC Walk Trot 11 & Older (No qualifying needed for Walk Trot Classics)

Lifetime Pleasure Horse Achievement Award

Massachusetts Horse Junior Horsemanship Award

For more information, please visit mahorsecouncil.com. 36

August/September 2018

15 POLO MATCH, Georgetown. bostonpolo.org. 15 RANCH SORTING, Chipaway Stables, Acushnet. chipawaystables.com. 15 – 16 SNECDA PLEASURE DRIVING SHOW AND DRIVING TRIAL, Dudley. (508) 688-2622.

23 NSHA PLEASURE SHOW, Bob-Lyn Stables, Amesbury. northshorehorsemens.org. 23 CCEA OPEN SHOW, South Yarmouth. ccequineassoc.com. 23 CRANBERRY CIRCUIT SHOW, Cape Cod Fairgrounds, East Falmouth. (508) 548-6671.

16 MASSACHUSETTS HORSE BENEFIT ADVENTURE TRAIL, Apple Knoll Farm Equestrian Center, Millis. mahorse.com/benefit.

23 HRC SUPREME INVITATIONAL, Balmy Acres, Middleboro. hansonridingclub.org.

16 PLYMOUTH COUNTY 4-H OPEN SHOW, Washburn Park, Marion. pc4hhorseshow.com.

23 WRC DAR STATE FOREST RIDE, Goshen. westfieldridingclub.org.

16 SEH SHOW, Medway. southeasthunter.com.

23 GROTON HOUSE FALL CLASSIC, Hamilton. grotonhousefarm.com.

16 BSTRA HUNTER PACE, Douglas. bstra.org. 16 CELEBRATE HOLLISTON SHOW, Willow Brook Farm, Holliston. celebrateholliston.com. 16 HRC VERSATILITY, Balmy Acres, Middleboro. hansonridingclub.org. 16 MYOPIA POLO, South Hamilton. myopiapolo.org. 16 WNRDC ADVENTURE TRAIL, West Newbury. wnrdc.com. 16 SCHOOLING TWO-PHASE AND DRESSAGE SHOW, Dracut. cutterfarm.com. 16 BRDC SHOW SERIES, Felton Field, Barre. barreridingdrivingclub.com. 16 SOUTH COAST HUNTER SERIES, Grazing Fields Farm, Buzzards Bay. southcoastseries.com. 16 DRESSAGE SCHOOLING SHOW, Jutta Lee “r” judge, Xenophon Farm, Montague. (413) 3679828 or xenophonfarm@aol.com. 20 – 23 SADDLEBREDS, HACKNEYS, MORGANS, AND FRIESIANS SHOW, West Springfield. thebige.com/horseshow. 21 NEW ENGLAND FRIESIAN KEURING, UMass Hadley Farm. fhane.org. 21 – 23 NH HUNTER/JUMPER FINALS, Three County Fairgrounds, Northampton. nhhja.com. 22 MHC SHOW, Medway. saddlerowe.com. 22 MYOPIA HUNT FALL HUNT SEASON BEGINS, Hamilton. myopiahunt.org. 22 TEAM PENNING, Chipaway Stables, Acushnet. chipawaystables.com. 22 POLO MATCH, Georgetown. bostonpolo.org. 23 MYOPIA POLO, South Hamilton. myopiapolo.org. 23 RUSTY RIDERS, Sherborn. coursebrookshows.com. 23 OPEN JUMPER SHOW, Chelmsford. midnightmoonstables.com. 23 CMHSS OPEN SHOW, Camp Marshall, Spencer. cmhss.net. 23 WASHBURN STABLES OPEN SHOW, Washburn Park, Marion. (774) 451-8909.

27 – 30 DRAFT HORSE SHOW, West Springfield. thebige.com. 28 – 30 MHC DAYS OF CHAMPIONS, Northampton. mahorsecouncil.com. 29 RANCH SORTING, Acushnet. chipawaystables.com. 29 – 30 CONFIDENCE BUILDING AND DESPOOKING CLINIC, Singing Winds Farm, Uxbridge. mountedpolice.org. 29 HUNTER PACE, Spencer. campmarshall.net. 29 POLO MATCH, Georgetown. bostonpolo.org. 30 WNEPHA HUNTER SHOW, Heritage Farm, Easthampton. wnepha.com

Dressage Schooling Show Series

May 6 - Adam Cropper “r” judge June 10 - Lainey Johnson “L” judge July 8 - Corinna Scheller-Flemming “L” August 12 - Roberta Carlton “L” judge September 16 - Jutta Lee “r” judge

Dressage Clinics Bill McMullin Sharon McCusker Bill Warren Verne Batchelder

Like us on Facebook to see who’s coming!

30 MYOPIA POLO, South Hamilton. myopiapolo.org. 30 CRDA DRESSAGE SHOW, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. crdressage.org. 30 HORSE TRIAL SERIES, Azrael Acres, Uxbridge. azraelacres.com. 30 FUN DAY, Westfield. westfieldridingclub.org.

October 1 HALLOWEEN HUNTER PACE, Apple Knoll

Farm, Millis. appleknollfarm.com.

6 POLO MATCH, Georgetown. bostonpolo.org. 6 OPEN WESTERN SCRIMMAGE, Orange. crimsonacres.org. 6 SORTING, Acushnet. chipawaystables.com. 6 – 7 BRDC FALL TRAIL RIDE WEEKEND, Felton Field, Barre. barreridingdrivingclub.com. 7 DRESSAGE SCHOOLING SHOW SERIES, New Braintree. whitesprucefarms.com. 7 SOUTH COAST HUNTER SERIES, Wolf Rock Farm, Plymouth. southcoastseries.com. 7 PIPESTAVE HILL HORSE TRIALS, West Newbury. wnrdc.com. 7 SCHOOLING THREE-PHASE, Groton Fairgrounds. grotonponyclub.org.

Stalls Available

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.

XENOPHON FARM

30 YEARS OF OUTSTANDING CLINICS, LECTURES & COMPETITIONS! JANICE

& ELAINE KACHAVOS

80 SUNDERLAND RD., RTE. 47 MONTAGUE, MASS. 413.367.9828 X ENOPHON FARM @ AOL . COM

7 FUN DAY AND GYMKHANA, Blanford. kellimarie43@yahoo.com.

Massachusetts Horse

. . . Trailers continued from page 12

HORSES SMALL ANIMALS EXOTICS ACUPUNCTURE CHIROPRACTIC HOMEOPATHY PHYSICAL THERAPY

Hanover Equine Dental Terry Paul

Graduate of the American School of Equine Dentistry

Performance floating for all disciplines. Serving all of southern New England.

eqdent1@verizon.net . (781) 630-0741

Tack Repairs & Restoration

HOUSE CALLS FULL-SERVICE SMALL-ANIMAL HOSPITAL GROOMING PET SUPPLIES

FAMILY VETERINARY CENTER BUD ALLEN, M.S., D.V.M. ROBIN KARLIN ALLEN, D.V.M. 99 MAIN ST. (RTE. 9) HAYDENVILLE, MA (413) 268-VETS FAMVETS.COM

August/September 2018

saddles . chaps belts . halters bridles . reins harnesses dog collars & leashes

Blue Dog Leather 64 South Shore Dr., Orange, Mass. 978.544.2681 bluedogleather.com Open by appointment, please call ahead.

Barefoot Hoof Care Rehabilitation of Laminitis/Founder & Other Hoof Pathologies Transitions from Shod to Barefoot Maintenance Trims

Diet & Nutrition Analysis Total Body Health

Natural Horsemanship Training Connection & Communication

Achaina

Classical Dressage & Work-In-Hand Balance, Strength, & Agility

Holistic Equine Services . Kathleen Ladendecker

(413) 310-4692 . Achaina.com kathy@achaina.com

when traveling with live cargo, and you need to be prepared for the worst. Having a plan in place should an accident occur could be the difference between life and death. Before you embark on a trip, know the route. Avoid roads that will be difficult to negotiate or uncomfortable for the horse. Know what stables are situated along the way should you need help or emergency shelter. Keep your horse’s medical information, as well as your own, where someone who comes to your aid can find it. Always travel with a cell phone, avoid traveling alone, and keep a list of the phone numbers to call for help. Make sure the first-aid kits are easily accessible, and always travel with plenty of hay and water. Incorporating safety measures like these into your travel plans will help you keep a cool head when you need to act quickly.

Tips for Storage The best place to park a trailer isn’t always the barn. Unless the structure is without animals and has a cement floor, a trailer may rust faster there than if you leave it outside. It’s best to park it on pavement or cement — not grass or dirt — as moisture will corrode the trailer as well as dry-rot the tires. If you have only grass or dirt parking areas, put plywood or boards under the trailer and tires. Trailer covers are not recommended. They can blow in the wind and wear paint away, and may also trap moisture, leading to corrosion and/or mold. Clean the trailer thoroughly, including removing all bedding, manure, and feed. Remove and clean rubber mats. If possible, use an air compressor or vacuum to clean out cracks and crevices. Be sure the trailer and mats are dry before replacing the mats. Stop any leaks where water can enter the trailer. Remove rust by either sanding or wire brushing; then paint over cleaned area with a rust inhibitor. Protect tires by putting a coat of rubber protectant on them or, even better, cover them. Sunlight damages tires and parking in the shade of a tree may put your trailer at risk of falling branches in an ice or wind storm. Move the trailer at least once a month or put it up on blocks to prevent tires from flattening on the ground side. continued on page 41 . . .

Greenwich

This Olde Horse Lise Krieger

Certified Saddle Fitter saddle assessments fitting evaluations flocking . repairs consignments . sales

newenglandsaddlefit.com newenglandsaddlefit@comcast.net 203 . 685 . 2308

A horse named Blondie and a man named Milton in Greenwich in 1910. Greenwich was one of four towns that was lost as a result of the formation of the Quabbin Reservoir. The reservoir was built between 1930 and 1938 in order to supply Bostonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s growing water needs.

Got Manure? MANURE REMOVAL FOR LARGE & SMALL FARMS

Roll-off containers 10 to 30 yards on call or scheduled service. Full stock pile removals.

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

Lessons 5 Training Clinics 5 Drill Team Horse Shows Games Nights Summer Camps

Recovery . Maintenance . Performance Therapeutic Massage . Bodywork . Reiki

(413) 320-7690 jobunny@comcast.net

DRESSAGE

Susan Rainville

Dressage Training, Groundwork & Response Training for a more confident partnership. USDF bronze & silver medalist

Dressage Schooling Show Series April 29 May 27 August 26 October 7

White Spruce Farms Central Massachusetts (978) 257-4666 whitesprucefarms.com Massachusetts Horse

the

neighborhood

ASSOCIATIONS •••••••••••••••••••••••••• BAY STATE TRAIL RIDERS ASSOCIATION bstra.org Keeping trails open for equestrian use; organized trail rides; volunteer opportunities for trail clearing and maintenance. HAMPSHIRE COUNTY RIDING CLUB Goshen, MA, (413) 268-3372 hampshirecounty ridingclub.org Monthly trail rides, woodland obstacle course, scavenger hunt, and clinics. BARN CATS •••••••••••••••••••••••••• PAWS WATCH P.O. Box 7005, Warwick, RI 02887 cats@pawswatch.org, pawswatch.org Barn cats need homes! Healthy, fixed, vaccinated barn cats provide rodent control. Delivered! BARNS •••••••••••••••••••••••••• CARRIAGE SHED Serving the Northeast, (800) 441-6057 carriageshed.com Barns, arenas, shed rows, custom buildings. DRESSAGE •••••••••••••••••••••••••• BRADFORD EQUESTRIAN CENTER Haverhill, MA, (978) 374-0008 Dressage for all disciplines and driving. Keith Angstadt, USEF dressage judge. CATHY DRUMM Pittsfield, MA, (413) 441-5278 cathydrumm.com Clinics, lessons, training, western and English dressage, hunter/jumper. FAIRFIELD FARM Rochester, MA, (508) 763-8038 dressageatfairfieldfarm.com Boarding, instruction, training, indoor. WHITE SPRUCE FARMS New Braintree, MA, (978) 257-4666 whitesprucefarms.com Dressage shows, instruction, all levels/ages. XENOPHON FARM Montague, (413) 367-9828 xenophonfarm@aol.com Dressage schooling shows, clinics, lessons, boarding, training, trails, owners on site. EQUINE DENTISTRY •••••••••••••••••••••••••• WENDY BRYANT, EQDT Northampton, MA, (413) 237-8887 wbryantnatrualbalancedentistry.com Natural balance equine dentistry. Improved topline, maximized performance, increased flexion. Serving New England. NORTHEAST EQUINE VETERINARY DENTAL SERVICES LEAH LIMONE, DVM Topsfield, MA, (978) 500-9293 nevds.com Licensed professional veterinary dentistry. Routine preventive care, maintenance, diagnostics, extractions.

August/September 2018

Your Everything Equine “white pages”

EQUINE ENTERTAINMENT •••••••••••••••••••••••••• DALE PERKINS/MESA FARM Rutland, MA, (508) 886-6898 daleperkinshorseshow.com Trick riding and much more. EQUINE MASSAGE •••••••••••••••••••••••••• HORSEBACK AND BODY Northampton, MA, (413) 320-7690 jobunny@comcast.net Massage therapy for horses, humans. FINANCING, LOANS, TAX PREP •••••••••••••••••••••••••• FARM CREDIT EAST (800) 562-2235, farmcrediteast.com Financing, loans, tax preparation, business consulting, financial planning. HAFLINGERS •••••••••••••••••••••••••• SOMMER HILL FARM Adams, MA, (413) 743-9301 sommerhaflingers@yahoo.com One Haflinger is never enough. HAY •••••••••••••••••••••••••• IMPERIAL HAY TRANSPORT Royalton, VT, (802) 234-2141 imperialhaytransport.com Quality New York and Canadian hay; shavings. Maine to Florida. HORSES FOR SALE •••••••••••••••••••••••••• HERITAGE FARM Easthampton, MA, (413) 527-1612 farmheritage.com Auctions, sale horses, shows, clinics, boarding, lessons, and training. STRAIN FAMILY HORSE FARM Granby, CT, (860) 653-3275 strainfamilyhorsefarm.com New England’s largest quality sales stable celebrating 50 years. 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. INSTRUCTION/TRAINING •••••••••••••••••••••••••• BACK BAY FARM Ipswich, MA, (978) 356-0730 backbayfarm.com Lessons, boarding, training, and sales. INSURANCE •••••••••••••••••••••••••• DON RAY INSURANCE Marshfield, MA, (781) 837-6550 donrayinsurance.com Farm, mortality, major medical and surgical, clubs, shows, instructors. FARM FAMILY INSURANCE farmfamily.com Boxborough: (978) 467-1001 Carver: (508) 866-9150 Centerville: (508) 428-0440 Easthampton: (413) 203-5180

Great Barrington: (413) 528-1710 Marlborough: (508) 485-3800 Middleborough: (508) 747-8181 Northborough: (508) 393-9327 Southwick: (413) 569-2307 Topsfield: (978) 887-8304 Wilbraham: (413) 887-8817 Williamstown: (413) 458-5584 Worcester: (508) 752-3300 JUDGES •••••••••••••••••••••••••• MARY BRAZIE Egremont, MA, (413) 528-2367 arabpinto13@yahoo.com Judging open, 4-H, carded; lessons. ED GOLEMBESKI Gill, MA, (413) 863-2313 riker119@comcast.net 4-H, open shows, clinics, lessons.

TACK •••••••••••••••••••••••••• CHESHIRE HORSE Swanzey, NH, (877) 358-3001 cheshirehorse.com English, western, feed, supplies, trailers. SMARTPAK RETAIL STORE Natick, MA, (508) 651-0045 smartpak.com/retailstore Tack, equipment, supplements, blankets, apparel, gear, gifts, clearance outlet. TRANSPORTATION •••••••••••••••••••••••••• J.R. HUDSON HORSE TRANSPORTATION West Bridgewater, MA, (508) 427-9333 jrhudsonhorsetrans.com Serving the lower 48 states and Canada.

NORWEGIAN FJORDS •••••••••••••••••••••••••• BLUE HERON FARM Charlemont, MA, (413) 339-4045 blueheronfarm.com Quality, purebred registered Fjords.

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

PHOTOGRAPHY •••••••••••••••••••••••••• KAREN MORANG PHOTOGRAPHY Find us on Facebook. Equine photography and events.

SOUTH DEERFIELD VETERINARY CLINIC DR. ROBERT P. SCHMITT S. Deerfield, MA, (413) 665-3626 sdvc@aol.com Equine medicine, surgery since 1969.

REAL ESTATE •••••••••••••••••••••••••• ALTHEA BRAMHALL HOMETOWN REALTORS North Quabbin region, (617) 678-9300 althearealtor@gmail.com Real estate is more fun with horse people! EQUINE HOMES REAL ESTATE LLC MA and NH, (800) 859-2745, ext. 704 equinehomes.com. sally@equinehomes.com Sally Mann, Realtor, MA and NH. STABLES, FARMS, BOARDING •••••••••••••••••••••••••• APPLE KNOLL FARM Millis, MA, (508) 376-2564 appleknoll.com Eventing training, lessons, schooling trials. CARRIER’S FARM Southampton, MA, (413) 527-0333 rcarrier0333@gmail.com Indoor, outdoor arenas, round pens, fields. GLENCROFT FARM Southampton, MA, (413) 527-8026 kraymond24@hotmail.com Boarding, pastures, ring, trails, fields. SANDYHILL FARM Florence, (413) 320-1881 sandyhillfarm@yahoo.com Boarding, ring, trails, lessons available. STRAIN FAMILY EQUESTRIAN CENTER LLC Southwick, MA, (413) 569-5797 strainfamilyequestrian.com Boarding, lessons, training, sales, therapeutic riding.

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Place your ad at mahorse.com.

. . . Trailers continued from page 38

JUST A FINAL word about actually hauling a trailer, especially if you’re a new driver. Lots of people are nervous about it. Don’t be. If you’re adept at driving a car, you can learn to haul a trailer well. Take time to practice (use a parking lot or a field), and get comfortable with maneuvering and backing up. Use orange cones to help you visualize. Once the horse is inside, I tell people to drive as though the road conditions are a bit slippery. That means be smooth with acceleration and deceleration. Watch your trailer wheels when turning; get the feel of where they track. Remember, trailer wheels are wider than those on a truck, so be aware of that when fitting through tight spaces. Check the wheels in your mirrors. Plan stops ahead of time as best you can. Be aware that

some drivers will do careless things to get around you or ahead of you. Drive as close to the speed limit as you can comfortably. Leave plenty of room between you and the car in front of you. Slowing down a truck and trailer takes more time and space than it does with just a car. Give yourself room to respond to surprises on the road in a confident and smooth manner. So now get out and drive, relax, enjoy the ride, and congratulations on becoming the owner of a trailer. Stephanie Funk has been trailering horses for more than 30 years and has worked in the trailer industry. 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.

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IEA Teams Hunt Seat Team Coached by Sheila Brady. Openings for the 2018-19 season! Email Sheila at huntseat@hillside-meadows.com. Western Team Coached by Amber Woodruff. Openings for the 2018-19 season. Email Amber at amberjwoodruff@gmail.com.

Boarding . Lessons . Shows . IEA Teams 111 George Hill Road, Grafton, Massachusetts (508) 243-8044 . hillside-meadows.com Massachusetts Horse

Is This Your Horse?

Stockbridge

Large and Small Animal Medicine & Surgery Helen Noble, VMD . Robert Orcutt, DVM Derek Cavatorta, DVM PhD Kirstin Anderson, DVM . Ashley Taylor, DVM Mary Ann Montesano, DVM

295 High St, Ipswich, Mass. 978-356-1119 (ph) . 978-356-5758 (f)

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Serving the North Shore since 1951

Is this your horse? This photo was taken at the Colonial Carriage and Driving Society Annual Pleasure Show in Stockbridge. 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, and a two-year subscription to Massachusetts Horse.

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Heather Reynolds Dostal Available for Judging & Clinics U.S. Pony Club Riding Center offering boarding, training, pony starting, and tune-ups. Professional, well rounded, goal-oriented lesson program for riders of all ages beginner through advanced. Accepting new clients with 2017 expansion!

54 Plain Rd., Hatfield, MA 413.427.2026

RERponies.com . rerponies@gmail.com 42

August/September 2018

Farm & Equine . Equine Mortality . Horse Owners Liability Our agents have been serving the equine community for a combined 50+ years. Call richard, Wendy, and John for a competitive quote with one of our many equine insurance carriers.

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Amherst Farmer’s Supply 320 South 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.com

Bridgewater Farm Supply 1000 Plymouth St., Bridgewater (508) 697-0357 . bridgewaterfarm.com Country Corral 35 Main St., Williamsburg (413) 268-0180 . countrycorralonline.com Dodge Grain Company 59 N. Broadway, Salem, NH (603) 893-3739 . dodgegrain.biz

#140

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

Hoosac Valley Coal and Grain 2 Gavin Ave., Adams (413) 743-0163 hoosacvalleycoalandgrain.com

Greenfield Farmers Co-op Exchange 269 High St., Greenfield (413) 773-9639 greenfieldfarmerscoop.com

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

Hardwick Farmers Co-op Exchange Rte. 32, Gilbertville . (413) 477-6913 hardwickfarmers.net

Thibault’s Poultry 92 N. Spencer Rd. Spencer (508) 612-1907