AUGUST 2017 × VOLUME 1 ISSUE 1
*
NEW NAME . SAME GRE AT CO NTE NT. S TILL F RE E . F E AT U R E S
HOW TO BRAID LIKE A PRO (PG. 32) EDEN PESSIN (PG. 14)
®
BUTET SADDLES CANADA ALAN LE LOUEDEC alan.lelouedec@butet.fr (1) 519 215 1474 www.butet.fr
FEATURED THIS ISSUE
CONTENTS 32 August 2017
EO SERVICES & RETAIL 8 2017 Horse Health & Welfare Award Mckee-Pownall 44
What is Equine Biomechanics? Russell Guire, Centaur Biomechanics
EO EVENTS LISTINGS 10 August 2017 & September 2017
16
The Power Of Seabuck 7
26
EO Summer Product Guide
30
Fall Products From Noble Outfitters Canada
42
A Pain In The Gut, Disturbing The Stomach Mucosa
56
Lauren Marlborough, Omega Alpha Purica’s Newest Equine Supplement Equine H.A 300 The Power Of Omegas Equine Omega Complete
part iii of iii
By Sierra Sneath, a professional braider on the A Circuit, and also the owner of Twisted Tails.
EO FEATURED RIDER 14 Eden Pessin
EO DRESSAGE 18 Dressage Naturally Q&A Karen Rohlf
EO EDITORS REVIEW 22 Galloping Goop VetCur
EO PRODUCTS 12 Insurance Protection For Equestrian Coaches! BFL Canada
50
HOW TO BRAID TAILS LIKE A PRO
EO VET 24
What’s the Scoop on Electrolytes? Dr. Dieter Oberbichler
EO RIDER HEALTH 52 Condition For Success Sarah Cuthbertson & Ashley Tomaszewski
EO EQUINE HOROSCOPE 58 The Best Jobs For the 12 Horse Signs Samantha Marshall
EO PUZZLES 60 Crossword Samantha Fawcett
ON THE COVER Photographer: Vanessa French Instagram: FrenchPhotography__ frenchphotography.ca
[that’s two underscores]
Beyond
Pain Relief
“Best Overall” “…best performer overall… for the tough case not responding to other products… you get what you pay for.” “It is so important to me that my horses are happy and healthy. I have trusted Purica’s Recovery EQ for many years to keep my horses moving freely!”
– Jonathan Field
Horsemanship, Inspired by Horses®
To find out more about RECOVERY, visit www.RecoveryEQ.com or call toll free 1.866.334.2463 PHOTO OF JONATHAN FIELD BY ROBIN DUNCAN
“
The horse is the best judge of a good rider, not the spectator. If the horse has a high opinion of the rider, he will let himself be guided, if not, he will resist. - NUNO OLIVEIRA
Although the author and publisher have made every effort to ensure
EDITOR Samantha Fawcett SALES Tyler Saik tyler@equestrianontario.com / 289-270-0906 DESIGN Navy Blue Stripes Paper Co. CONTRIBUTORS Dr. Dieter Oberbichler Sarah Cuthbertson Samantha Marshall Ashley Tomaszewski Sierra Sneath Eden Pessin Karen Rohlf Lauren Marlborough Julia Merritt Russell Guire
that the information in this publication was correct at press time, the author and publisher do not assume and hereby disclaim any liability to any party for any loss, damage, or disruption caused by errors or omissions, whether such errors or omissions result from negligence, accident, or any other cause.
PUBLISHER Horseback Media Inc. Milton, Ontario, Canada www.EquestrianOntario.com
is now
subscribe at WWW.EQUESTRIANONTARIO.COM
4 | EQUESTRIAN ONTARIO AUGUST ‘17
EDITOR’S NOTE Twisted Tails! The last part of the series is all about tails! How to hang a fake tail, how to braid, and most importantly – how to finish it all off with a wrap-around or pinwheel! Parts 1 and 2 of the series that includes detailed information on preparing the mane for braiding, and how to braid manes and forelocks can easily be located on our new website equestrianontario.com!
W
elcome to the new and improved EQUESTRIAN ONTARIO!
We’ve always been geared towards the Ontario Equestrian Community, and now it is official! We will soon be looking to add some Brand Ambassadors to our ever-growing team, stay tuned to social media for more details! This issue is jam-packed with useful knowledge for Equestrians of all disciplines! No matter your discipline – if you love horses and ride in Ontario – this is the magazine for you! If you actively participate in showing, especially hunter/jumper, take a look at the third and final installment of our How-To-Braid series by Sierra Sneath of 6 | EQUESTRIAN ONTARIO AUGUST ‘17
Make sure you don’t miss out on Dr. Dieter Oberbichler’s latest article on the hot topic of summer: Electrolytes! It’s a very informative article that will teach you more about how electrolytes work in the horse’s system, as well as how salt and/or electrolyte supplementation can best help your horse! Another article you do not want to miss is from Russell Guire of Centaur Biomechanics on Equine Biomechanics and how saddle fit and rider position can either help or hinder horses of all disciplines! This is a must read for anyone interested in bettering themselves as a rider and/or horse person!! As always, there is so much to learn in this issue of Equestrian Ontario – so get reading!
Samantha
EO SERVICES
McKee-Pownall Equine Service Presents
2017 HORSE HEALTH & WELFARE AWARD NOMINATE YOUR TRAINER TODAY!
M
cKee-Pownall Equine Services is pleased to announce our Third Annual “Horse Health & Welfare Award”. This accolade is valued at $1000 and will be awarded to the nominated trainer that best demonstrates attention to the health and welfare of the horse. One recipient will be selected, from trainers in good standing with Equestrian Canada, who directly and effectively enhances the health of the horses in their care. The award is based upon: • Incorporating veterinary care as part of the overall training routine of horses in their care. • Putting the best interests of the horse’s health first over competition and training schedules. • Educating their clients about horse health care. ELIGIBILITY • Nominee must be a trainer or coach. They must train both horses and riders and these horses must be in their immediate care. • Nominee must be a member in good standing of Equestrian Canada NOMINATIONS Nominate a trainer for this award by completing a nomination form and providing 2 supporting signatures in addition to your own. Completed Nomination forms can be found on our website and must be received by August 25, 2017, 5:00 pm.
VOTING There will be an online poll available for the public to vote for their choice for the recipient of this award. Voting will be open from September 1, 2017 to September 15, 2017. PRESENTATION Canadian Show Jumping Tournament at the Caledon Equestrian Park See more detailed information and download a nomination form at : mpequine.com/horse_health_and_welfare.aspx
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EVENT LISTINGS AUGUST 2017 ‘A’ CIRCUIT 1-6 • Summer Festival CSI2* @ Caledon Equestrian Park 8-13 • Caledon Premier II CSI2* @ Caledon Equestrian Park 16-20 • The Champions @ Angelstone Tournaments 23-27 • The National @ Angelstone Tournaments 30–3 • The International @ Angelstone sept Tournaments TRILLIUM H/J 4-6 • RCRA Trillium 1 @ RCRA [CE] • F & M Trillium [SW] 5-6 • Westar Trillium [EOTC] • Foothills Farm Show [NE] 11-13 • RCRA Trillium 2 @ RCRA [CE] • Vanbrook Trillum @ Iron Horse Equestrian [CW] 12-13 • Stratford Fox Run @ Wesley Clover Parks [EOTC] • McCowan Stables Trillium II [GB] • High Stree Horse Show @ Ilderton Fairgrounds [SW] 18-20 • Zone Classic Trillium @ Palgrave [CE] • Iron Horse Trillium @ Iron Horse Equestrian [CW] • Trevella Stables Show [NE] 19-20 • Jack Pine Trillium II [GB] 30-3 • TRILLIUM CHAMPIONSHIPS @ sept PALGRAVE EVENTING 2 • Warwick Equestrian HT II (SOCTA) 5-6 • Grandview Summer HT (E, PT, T, P I) (OHTA) 12 • Cherrylane Summer HT (PE, E, PT, T) (OHTA) 13 • Stevens Creek HT (PE, E, PT, T, P) (OHTA) 19 • Sprucehaven CT & X-Country School (SOCTA) 20 • Sprucehaven HT & Short Courst (SOCTA) 10 | EQUESTRIAN ONTARIO AUGUST ‘17
20 27
• Lane’s End HT (PE, E, PT, T, P) (SOCTA) • Wits End CT (PE, E, PT, T, P) (OHTA) • Stevens Creek HT (PE, E, PT, T, P) (OHTA)
DRESSAGE 6 • Centaur Gold & Silver Dressage Show 13 • London Dressage Association Bronze & Silver • Conestoga Cadora Dressage Show @ CEC 19-20 • Caledon Dressage Silver/Bronze @ Orangeville Event Centre 27 • Glanbrook Silver & Bronze Dressage Show • Centaur ESD Dressage Schooling Show • Preston Rosedale Silver Dressage Show • WE Cadora Bronze @ Windsor Essex Therapeutic Riding Assoc. SCHOOLING 6 • Iron Horse Challenge Series Show 7 • Meadowlark H/J Show 12 • Rockton Saddle Club Show Series @ Rockton Fairgrounds 13 • Hamilton Hunt H/J Series 27 • Vector Equestrian Challenge Series Show • Teen Ranch H/J Series • Hamilton Hunt H/J Series MISC. 6 11 13 18-20 21 27 30
• Thoroughly Thoroughbred Horse Show @ Sprucehaven Farm • Dundas Valley Equestrian Campout @ Dundas Valley Conservation • Wellington-Waterloo Hunt Club Poker Run for the Hounds • DMF Productions Presents McLain Ward Clinic @ RCRA • Vaulting & Trick Riding Camp @ Maple Rock Stables • Karin Davis Dressage Clinic @ Windreach Farm • RAWF Cup Class Qualifier @ RCRA
EVENT LISTINGS September 2017 ‘A’ CIRCUIT 13-17 • Autumn Classic @ Caledon Equestrian Park 20-24 • Canadian Show Jumping Tournament @ Caledon Equestrian Park 27-1 • Fall Finale @ Caledon Equestrian Park TRILLIUM H/J 30-3 • TRILLIUM CHAMPIONSHIPS @ aug PALGRAVE EVENTING 2-3 • OHTA Championships @ Glen Oro (Champs: T, P, I) (Non-Champs: PT, E) 9-10 • OHTA Championships @ Caledon (Champs: PE, E, PT) (Non-champs: PE, E, PT, T) 10 • Ottawa HT @ Wesley Clover Parks (PE, E, PT, T, P) (OHTA) 16-17 • Dreamcrest Fall HT (E, PT, T, P, I) (OHTA) 24 • Bronte Creek Fall HT (PE, E, PT, T, P) (OHTA) 30 • Grandview Fall HT (E, PT, T, P) (OHTA)
DRESSAGE 1-3 • 2017 Canadian National Championships @ Saddlewood Equestrian Centre 10 • London Dressage Association Bronze & Silver 24 • Glanbrook Silver & Bronze Dressage Show 24 • Oakhurst ESD Dressage Show #2 SCHOOLING 4 • Meadowlark H/J Series Finale 10 • Blue Star Bronze H/J #3 17 • Westar Farm’s Derby Day Bronze Show • Meadowlarke North Challenge Series Show 24 • Iron Horse Equestrian Challenge Series Show MISC 23
• Canadian Warmblood Inspection @ Mountain Start Stable
TO HAVE YOUR EVENT FEATURED HERE VISIT EQUESTRIANONTARIO.COM/EVENTS
AUGUST ‘17 EQUESTRIAN ONTARIO | 11
EO PRODUCTS
INSURANCE PROTECTION FOR EQUESTRIAN COACHES. EVEN IF YOU COACH ONLY ONE OR TWO HOURS A WEEK, THE IMPORTANCE OF PROPER INSURANCE COVERAGE AND RISK MANAGEMENT PRACTICES CANNOT BE OVERLOOKED. Coaching, at any level or discipline, carries risks. When providing this service, you can be found liable for bodily injury or property damage to a student or other third party, even if you have tried to take all necessary precautions. To protect yourself and your assets, it is essential to carry Commercial General Liability insurance that is specifically designed for equestrian sport. Some key features to look for in a well-designed coaching liability policy: • Coverage for all locations and venues where you will coach, including horse shows. • Injury to participants included. • Tenants’ Legal Liability coverage with sufficient limit for premises you occupy. • Stableman’s liability that covers your care, custody and control of other people’s horses. Some coach policies include other useful coverages, such as tack, crime, or accidental death and dismemberment. When comparing, be an educated consumer, and speak with a broker who is well versed in the horse industry and can help you understand what protection is necessary for your situation. In addition to getting the right insurance coverage, there are some practices you can adopt as a coach that will help minimize your exposure to risk. Consult a lawyer when drafting a waiver to adequately cover the scope of your activities, and require all clients to sign it. Post your barn and arena safety rules to help to keep your clients safe and informed. Ensure that your students are properly equipped with riding boots, long pants and helmets to minimize their risk of injury. Protect yourself today! Contact BFL CANADA and get a quote on the Coach Liability product that is right for you. EQUINE@BFLCANADA.CA | 1 800 668 5901
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EO FEATURED RIDER
Photo Credits: Life With Horses Photography Eden and Rookie.
EDEN PESSIN July/August Featured Rider
DATE OF BIRTH August 13, 2001
HOMETOWN Shelburne, ON
BASED OUT OF Denworth Equine in Caledon, ON
FAVOURITE INSPIRATIONAL QUOTE “The human head weighs 8 pounds.”
WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN 5 YEARS? In university, hopefully at Guelph or U of T.
@EDEN_MYBARNCHILD
I
first started riding at the age of 7 at a lesson barn not far from where we lived at the time. I learned the basics and got to ride a bunch of lesson ponies for the 2 years I was there. But, we soon realized it was time to make more of a commitment. My first pony Bandit (show name Bazinga), was a medium pinto cross. I showed Bandit in the Short Stirrup division on the Georgian 14 | EQUESTRIAN ONTARIO AUGUST ‘17
Bay Trillium Circuit. Bandit had a really naughty stop, and I probably fell off in as many trips as I finished. I loved him, but eventually got tired of spending so much time on the ground! We were really lucky to find a great home for him with a western trail trainer who did a lot of natural horsemanship - no more drilling kids into the dirt for Bandit! My next pony was Duck Duck Goose, a 14hh bay welsh cross. I showed Goose for a couple of years in the Short Stirrup and Large Pony Hunter divisions on the Georgian Bay Trillium Circuit. Growing out of Goose was one of the hardest things I had to deal with as a rider. I was too tall to keep riding him, but I wasn’t ready to let him go. Goose is a quirky pony who has a free spirit and a little too much sass to be a hunter pony - it wasn’t a job he loved. He is leased to a wonderful girl who does Pony Club on him and they are having an awesome time together! Last year, I did my first full ‘A’ Circuit season on a wonderful large black Hanoverian/ Welsh pony mare named Izzy. Although Izzy was green she was very smart, so even though
she had never shown before, we finished 5th overall in the Children’s Pony division. This year I have leased Rookie, a 19 year old Dutch Warmblood gelding that I am showing in the 0.90m Junior Jumpers and OHJA Mini Medal. Rookie was the first horse I tried, and I knew he was the guy for me! One year later and I still think every day that I made the right choice. Rookie knows his job and gets me around safely. He jumps like a superstar and flats like a dressage horse. HOWEVER, he doesn’t give anything up for free, so I am comfortable and safe, but still learning! Rookie has been showing at the Caledon Equestrian Park for a long time. It makes me smile when people come up and say they know him or yell “Hi Rookie!” in the warm-up ring. He is a very special guy! One of my favourite things is walking a course and figuring out where the course designer is trying to trick the riders. I love talking to my trainer and coming up with strategies that suit my horse’s strengths. I believe in an intelligent ride with turns over burns. When I go in the ring, the most important thing to me is to leave with the respect of the other riders and trainers. I want people to watch my rides and know that I am passionate about my sport, but that my horse always comes first. I am still trying to decide what I will show next year. At first, I thought I would like to go
ROOKIE
BIRTHDATE 1998 PEDIGREE KWPN HEIGHT 16 hh LOVES Turnout
back to the hunters, but I am really enjoying the jumpers. I think I will probably look for another jumper to step up on, but it will be hard to beat Rookie. My future goal is to go to University to obtain a Business degree. I do know that I would like to compete to as high a level as I can, and continue working in the Equestrian industry. The experiences I have had through our family business, My Barn Child, have helped me to meet and work with some amazing people. I have met many of the equestrian industry’s most successful entrepreneurs, and a lot of them have become friends and mentors to me. I have been very lucky to have had some great trainers for each stage of my riding. I am very thankful for the life lessons, not just the riding lessons, I have gotten from each one; they are wonderful ladies! If I was giving advice to other young people who want to eventually make a living in our sport, it would be to talk to as many people as you can! Make friends. Offer to help. Offer to ride ponies. If you are friendly and helpful, people will give you opportunities. I like to think that people will only remember your red ribbon for a little while, but they will remember you as a great horse person always.
HATES Ear stuffies IF HE WERE IN HIGH SCHOOL, HE WOULD BE
Captain of the football team.
EO PRODUCTS
S
THE POWER OF SEABUCK 7
eaBuck 7 is a natural food-based supplement made in the USA that provides optimal health benefits for animals. The wildcrafted goodness of Himalayan sea buckthorn berry, used in SeaBuck 7, delivers the best possible nutrients including over 190 bio-actives and the densest and purest form of Omega 7 that contributes to improved internal and external functions in pets and livestock. Countless studies have confirmed the easily absorbed SeaBuck 7 supplement promotes healthier internal functions, maintains optimum weight, plus improves skin texture, coat shine, and luster. SeaBuck 7 liquid supplement contains the goodness of the entire sea buckthorn berry, purified water and nutrient stabilizer…NO additional additives, just natural food-based nutrition. EQUINE DIGESTION & SEABUCKTHORN A horse’s digestive system is one of the most delicate yet complex bio-systems in the animal world. The horse benefits most when the overall system works properly and the horse eats and drinks well. Studies have been conducted on the positive effects of seabuckthorn on the digestive system and on the positive effects of seabuckthorn on digestive health. Seabuckthorn has been shown to be beneficial in supporting normal healthy digestion in over 240 published studies. Seabuck is a seabuckthorn based all natural equine product for all breeds and classes of horses that supports healthy digestive function. It is a historical fact that the seabuckthorn plant has been used for thousands of years by the celebrated horsemen of the Far East. The ancient Greeks found that their horses were healthier, their coats turned very shiny, and they gained remarkable weight. This is how seabuckthorn got its Latin name. “Hippo” stands for horse and “phaos”means to shine; hence it’s botanical name “Hippophae” or ‘Shiny Horse’.
Just as the ancient warrior’s life depended upon the health and stamina of his horses, the modern horse professional’s success is totally dependant upon maximizing the overall health and performance fo his athletes in training. SeaBuck has been developed to capture the strengths of seabuckthorn for the benefit of horses in today’s exacting market. Now more than ever, Horse owners should be looking towards healthy NATURAL products for our equine partners. Start here: Seabuck.ca. 16 | EQUESTRIAN ONTARIO AUGUST ‘17
THE POWER OF SEABUCK 7 A Natural Equine Health Product
Numerous studies have confirmed that the easily absorbed SeaBuck 7 supplement promotes healthier internal functions, maintains optimum weight, and improves skin texture, coat shine, and luster. SeaBuck 7 liquid supplement contains only the goodness of the entire Sea Buckthorn berry, purified water, and nutrient stablizer. There are no additional additives, just natural food-based nutrition!
“I am truly excited and impressed with the results I and my clients have experienced with the introduction of Sea Buck to the feeding program. From foals, to horses in training/ competition, I have seen significant results to the overall health of these horses – they look better, feel better and perform better. There is a ton of research behind this product so perhaps I should not be so surprised with the results I am seeing.” Vet – Kentucky
W W W.SEABUCK.CA
EO DRESSAGE
DRESSAGE NATURALLY Q&A K AREN ROHLF cre ator of dres s age n at ur a l ly
Karen Rohlf is committed to empowering students to learn and make progress on their own. Her online programs are designed to give you the information you need, and teach you how to use it to problem-solve with your horse. Here, Karen shares with us a couple of the most common questions she gets and her response! ENGLISH OR WESTERN? Q: Do I have to be riding English to do Dressage, Naturally? A: Anyone can benefit from these concepts! I have taught western riders, jumpers, pleasure riders, natural horsemanship riders, and dressage riders. And riders who ride bareback and bride-less wearing English breeches and cowboy hats, so I don’t know what they are ... they are just horsemen! CREATING A ‘GO BUTTON’ Q: My young horse does not always have a ‘Go Button’... How can I ‘up my phases’ without creating bad ears or brace? A: With any horse, make sure the picture of what you are asking for is “fair, reasonable, and possible”. If you are not sure about that, you can always ask for something one notch easier. One question to ask yourself is: ‘Why should he go?” Yes we want to have a horse who does what we ask, but we have to look beyond just controlling or dominating. We want to establish communication and cause our horse to know we appreciate his effort, and that we don’t get greedy when he does offer. With that said, the goal is to get 100% effort from the horse. This takes psychology and may take some time and consistent practice. If we aren’t getting 100% we either have to change how we are asking or what we are asking for! You may ask what the phases should look like, and that can be very different for each horse. With one horse it may be just holding your leg on and waiting, for another the horseman’s string works best, for another the stick tapping first my leg, then them; or just a pop on the butt. I feel it out with each horse to see what seems to work the best for them, naturally. 18 | EQUESTRIAN ONTARIO AUGUST ‘17
Most of all you need to be fair and predictable and set it up so they absolutely have a chance (the time) to make the right decision, but not so much time that they think you didn’t really mean it! Always check your position, cues, and body language to make sure you are being clear and allowing. The important part is that you follow through until you get their best attempt, and repeat until their best attempt is 100% of what you pictured. Sour expression or pinned ears come from two main reasons: 1. The horse did not 100% do what you asked... they did it partially, and are still complaining. If so, you need to follow through more and get to 100% clarity. 2.
The horse did do what you asked but they still feel pressure on them. If this is the case, you need to praise, release, allow, and follow more. Make sure they know they were fabulous!
COMPETITION Q: What are your thoughts about competition? A: Competition is fine if you can keep a good attitude about it. Often, many people teach riding as if they are teaching competition skills (the art of making something work even if it is not working). But competing can be just riding your normal wonderful way at a certain place at a certain time. The qualities being prioritized in competitions today is another long story, but I do think competition is a great tool for motivating the rider, and it is a wonderful way to measure your progress. Your attitude towards winning, and your attitude towards your horse under the circumstance of competition is your responsibility. FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE BEST WAY TO BEGIN KAREN’S PROGRAM: DRESSAGE NATURALLY FROM PARTNERSHIP TO PIAFFE, VISIT DRESSAGE.EQUESTRIANONTARIO.COM Karen Rohlf, creator of Dressage Naturally, is an internationally recognized clinician who is changing the equestrian educational paradigm. Karen is well known for her student-empowering approach to teaching and her ability to connect with a wide range of horses. She believes in getting to the heart of our mental, emotional, and physical partnership with our horses by bringing together the best of the worlds of dressage and partnership-based training. For more information on Dressage Naturally and online virtual courses, please visit www.dressagenaturally.net
AUGUST ‘17 EQUESTRIAN ONTARIO | 19
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EO REVIEW
EDITOR’S REVIEW EQUESTRIAN ONTARIO’S SAMANTHA FAWCETT PROVIDES HANDS-ON PRODUCT REVIEWS
GALLOPING GOOP
A
side from having a name that is really fun to say (or is it just me?), Galloping Goop is one of my favourite new products that I have had the opportunity to test first hand!! Gone are the poop stains on your horse’s face from the nightly use of their poop pillow, gone are the stains from rolling in the grass, gone are the urine stains and yellow coats! In order to really put this product to the test, I grabbed the two dirtiest horses on the property! Aside from being gentle (lowfoaming), biodegradable, non-toxic, and enriched with Aloe Vera and Vitamin E, Galloping Goop is also very easy to use! And it smells great too!
Before
22 | EQUESTRIAN ONTARIO AUGUST ‘17
Simply apply a healthy amount of Degreaser to your horse’s DRY coat, focusing on heavy stains on the body as well as the mane/tail; let sit for 5 minutes. Then, rinse while massaging the coat and mane/tail! Follow up by bathing your horse’s entire body with Galloping Goop Shampoo. Rinse, and finish off by working Galloping Goop Conditioner into your horse’s coat and especially the mane/tail for a silky coat, and show-ring shine! I was pleased by how easily the products washed out, and even more impressed by the results! Both horses were glistening, and according to their owners, the cleanest they have ever been! I love it when products are safe, affordable, AND effective!
After
Galloping Goop has raised the bar when it comes to removing tough stains, dirt and grease. With low foaming action it does not strip the coat’s natural oils and is enriched with natural Aloe Vera and Vitamin E to nourish the hair and skin in less time. If you have a white or grey horse — no more scrubbing out the nasty stains — they will sparkle!
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EO VET
WHAT’S THE SCOOP ON ELECTROLYTES? BY DR. DIETER OBERBICHLER, DVM www.oberbichler-equine.ca
A
ccording to Wikipedia, “Homeostasis” is the property of a system within the body of an organism in which a variable, such as the concentration of a substance in solution, is actively regulated to remain very nearly constant. Examples of homeostasis include the regulation of the body temperature of an animal, the pH of its extracellular fluids, the concentrations of Sodium (Na+), Potassium (K+) and Calcium (Ca2+) ions, as well as that of glucose in the blood plasma. All of this despite changes in the animal’s environment such as what it has eaten or what it is doing (for example, resting or exercising). And that matters because? Well, it is important to know that Mother Nature has developed a fine tuned system to keep everything in balance. The body actively regulates and monitors the fluid as well as the electrolyte balance. Usually these mechanisms are enough to prevent any trouble under normal conditions. However, under certain circumstances like hot and humid weather and/or strenuous prolonged exercise, the compensating mechanisms cannot keep up with the stress that is put on them. Compared to human perspiration, Equine sweat is rich in sodium, chloride, and potassium. Due to the plant derived diet of horses that is rich in potassium and calcium, the equine urine has high concentrations of these electrolytes. The milky appearance of
24 | EQUESTRIAN ONTARIO AUGUST ‘17
horse pee is caused by excess calcium excreted as calcium carbonate. Electrolytes are minerals in the blood and other body fluids that carry an electric charge and they are essential for many functions. Any electric process in the body depends on proper intra and extra cellular concentrations of electrolytes; otherwise no muscle would contract and no heart would beat. All nerve function and conductivity depends on proper electrolyte levels. The consequences of electrolyte depletion can be significant, and even life threatening. A horse low in electrolytes due to sweat loss will often not drink because one of the mechanisms that triggers thirst is the increase in concentration of salt in the blood. This will lead to dehydration and will compromise the circulatory system, thus futher impairing thermoregulation. A horse may be dehydrated without low electrolyte status and vice versa, but often the two go hand in hand. Severe dehydration and electrolyte loss needs to be treated aggressively with oral and i.v fluids in order to restore homeostasis. Prevention and awareness of the horses’ demands and proper supplementation is therefore the better choice and it becomes necessary when a horse undergoes frequent or prolonged exercise especially if the weather is hot and humid.
As already mentioned, for horses on a predominantly hay/pasture diet, potassium intake usually is in excess of daily requirements. On the other hand, sodium and chloride intake often is marginal, even in horses that are relatively inactive and not losing a great deal of electrolytes in sweat. Therefore, some form of salt supplementation is absolutely essential!
Typically, electrolytes are mixed as a paste and administered to the horse via a dosing syringe given before, during, or after the race/ competition. The supplement should contain calcium and magnesium because imbalances in these minerals can contribute to the development of medical disorders such as synchronous diaphragmatic flutter (thumps), muscle cramping, and tying up.
SALT SUPPLEMENTATION For non-exercised horses, simple salt blocks are probably adequate to meet sodium and chloride requirements. We know from recent research in athletic horses that voluntary sodium intake from a salt block is highly variable, and often below even the maintenance requirement. (Jansson and Dahlborn, 1999). Thus, a salt block on its own is not sufficient as a source of salt for athletic performance horses.
In a study from 2005, Holbrook et al. showed that hypertonic (concentrated) electrolyte solutions can exacerbate gastric ulcers in horses. Another study by Sampieri et al. in 2006 found that there is no evidence that the use of oral electrolyte pastes ENHANCES performance in competing endurance horses.
I recommend adding 1 to 2 tablespoons of salt (NaCl) per day to a horse’s ration, together with a free choice salt lick will cover the needs for the majority of horses at lower exercise levels. For horses in regular training during the summer, they may require 3-5 tablespoons of salt split up AM/PM each day.
Our goal is to help the body to restore and maintain homeostasis and to replenish salt loss as fast as possible, but excess amounts will literally put “strain on the system”. Therefore, pastes should be used judiciously. DO NOT USE GATORADE OR OTHER HUMAN SPORTS DRINKS FOR HORSES AS ELECTROLYTE SUPPLEMENTATION. Why not? Simple: human requirements are different than Equines!
The risk of over supplementation is low, as long as there is adequate water so that the excess amount of salt is flushed out with the urine; homeostasis - remember?
The best window for rehydration is within the first one to two minutes after exercise. When offered water during that period, horses will readily consume six to 10 liters of water.
ELECTROLYTE SUPPLEMENTATION The number of electrolyte supplements on the market nowadays is huge, some are designed as an addition to the horse’s feed and others for administration to horses before and during athletic activities. It is extremely important to read the product labels carefully and take note of the actual quantities of sodium, chloride, and potassium in the supplement. Supplements that contain a lot of sugar (> 15%) and not much else should be avoided.
As always… Talk to your vet about it!
Dr. Dieter Oberbichler (Dr.O) was born in Styria, and graduated from the University of Vienna in 1988. An avid horseman, he has trained in Dressage, Show Jumping, and Eventing! See more at www.oberbichler-equine.ca
AUGUST ‘17 EQUESTRIAN ONTARIO | 25
EO PRODUCTS
Summer
PRODUCT GUIDE A MOST DELICIOUS TREAT FOR HORSES! retail: 6 bits ($4.95), 15 bits ($8.95), 60 bits ($24.95), and 120 bits ($44.95) Horsey Bits started 12 years ago, becoming an instant hit and has been growing ever since! Horsey Bits are an all-natural grain based Equine treat; made with molasses and love. They are a fresh baked, soft treat for horses that people can feel confident about feeding because they are not full of chemicals. They have an EXCELLENT shelf life, and come in foil packages or re-sealable buckets so that they stay fresh! Available in three flavours: Original, Peppermint, and the newest Apple! Horsey Bits sells directly to tack and feed stores all across Ontario and as of recently in Langley, BC. ASK FOR HORSEY BITS AT YOUR LOCAL TACK OR FEED STORE! #ponieslovethem #spoilthepony Instagram: @horseybits Facebook: Horseybitstreats 26 | EQUESTRIAN ONTARIO AUGUST ‘17
KEYSTONE CROPS | retail: starting at $100 cad Tired of losing your plain black crop around the barn? Or perhaps you would just like to rep your show/barn colours? Whatever the reason, Keystone Farms can help you create a high quality, fully custom crop! All crops are hand made with the best materials to last you many years! Choose the length of your crop, the handle size, thickness, flexibility, feathers (or no feathers), popper style, popper colour, and shaft colours and styles! The possibilities are endless; make it as extravagant or classic as you wish! Crops take 2-4 weeks to arrive once the order and payment have been received! Order your personalized crop now and receive FREE SHIPPING until October 1st, 2017! www.keystonefarms.ca/custom-whips
VIVET HERBAL MINERAL ViVet is a brilliant vitamin, mineral, and herbal supplement for horses. It is uniquely developed to optimize your horse’s base feed, assuring maximum utilization and highest absorption through organically bound minerals. ViVet contains all essential organic vitamins, minerals, and trace minerals in the right combination and concentration and fulfills all electrolyte needs every day, year round. It is highly palatable (tasty) for your horse and is free of grain, sugar, starch, artificial additives, and GMOs. ViVet is a customized mix of herbs, grass, Lucerne, and black currant that infuses your horse with a wide range of active plant nutrient matters for all vital organs, systems, and structures of the body. Provides your horse with 100% natural Vitamins E, B, and Beta Carotene for a healthy coat and
ideal hoof maintenance. It is an unrivalled feed supplement that replenishes your horse with micro minerals such as Selenium (for antioxidants and immune function), Iron (for bloodformation and immune function), Zinc (for antioxidant production and enzyme co-factor), Manganese (for enzyme action and bone health), Copper (for immune function, arterial strength, and hemoglobin formation). A daily dosage of ViVet ensures: * Health * Performance * Efficiency * Fertility * Growth www.VetCur.ca AUGUST ‘17 EQUESTRIAN ONTARIO | 27
EQUINOX HORSE COOKIES retail: $7.99 (400g), $16.99 (1kg), $24.99 (2kg). Equinox Horse Cookies are an oval shaped biscuit made of ground up grains, molasses and a few other nutritious ingredients. They are healthy and many other animals find them tasty as well. They are easy to feed, do not crumble in your pocket, and have an extremely long shelf life. These biscuits have been tested with very satisfying results. Equinox Horse Cookies should be fed as a treat; recommending feeding one to three at one feeding. Equinox Horse Cookies are available in 400 gram, 1 kg, and 2 kg re-sealable bags. www.ECfarmacy.com
SHIRES EQUESTRIAN - TEMPEST RAIN SHEET retail: msrp tempest rain sheet $119.95, msrp tempest 200g $144.95 Manufactured by Shires ShireTex advanced breathable fabrics are used in all Shires turnout blankets. Tough and durable, these fabrics are coated with a specially formulated hydrophilic coating that is designed to attract excess sweat and moisture. The difference in air temperature between the inside and the outside of the blanket then draws this sweat/moisture to the outside of the blanket where it dissipates into the atmosphere. Tested under controlled conditions to ensure suitability for horse blankets. The Shires Tempest Rain Sheet with ShireTex600 Denier Ripstop and taped seams is waterproof, breathable, and machine washable. It has adjustable chest closures, cross surcingles, D-rings for leg straps, tail strap, and complete with a tail flap to further protect your horse from the elements. Sheep & Horse prints. Available as a rain sheet or 200G fill blanket. www.shiresequestrian.com 28 | EQUESTRIAN ONTARIO AUGUST ‘17
SSG® DIGITAL® STYLE 2100 retail: starting at $49.95 cad Our Most Popular Competition Glove with SSG Digital® Palm. The SSG® DIGITAL® provides the ultimate in feel, grip, breathability, and durability. The digital pattern has the best grip and wear in the industry! Ultraflex™ venting allows for flexibility and breathability. Gloves should be cool water hand washed only and set flat to air dry! Colours available are Black, White, Brown, Navy. Unisex sizing. Black, Brown: 5, 6, 7, 7.5, 8, 9, 10, 11 White, Navy: 6, 7, 7.5, 8, 9, 10 www.ssgridinggloves.com/product/ssg-digital
SSG OPEN AIR™ STYLE 8300 retail: starting at $43.95 cad Finally! A glove with the ultimate ventilation and comfort! The SSG Open Air™ glove is perfect for extra hot weather riding! They are surprisingly durable too! Gloves should be cool water hand washed only and set flat to air dry! Washes like a rag. Try it, you’ll like it! Colour available is Black. Unisex Sizes: 6, 7, 7.5, 8, 9, 10 www.ssgridinggloves.com/product/ssg-koolskin AUGUST ‘17 EQUESTRIAN ONTARIO | 29
EO PRODUCTS
FALL PRODUCTS
from Noble Outfitters Canada NEW this fall. The innovative Guardsman 4-in-1 Turnout System will change the way you think about horse blankets. Included in the box is 1-Turnout Shell and, 2-insulated inserts. This game changing system offers 4-seasons of protection from the elements. 100% waterproof and breathable, when used without the inserts, the shell serves as a light weight sheet. Features such as the durable 1800 Denier polyester, double ripstop material and the patent pending 360° Quick Connect™ closure will set your mind at ease when you turn your horse out. For additional protection, purchase the Guardsman Turnout Neck Cover. It is compatible with all Noble Outfitters™ blankets. Create a safer environment at home or on the road. The all-purpose Biosecurity Wash is your first defense against everything that you can’t see. With zero re-entry time required, you will save time and rest assured that viruses and bacteria aren’t sharing a stall with your loved one. It is food-grade safe and biodegradable. Simply apply directly on your animals and anywhere they frequent such as stalls, feeders, and water buckets. With LubriSynHA, the best care of your horses is your top priority. LubriSyn’s formula promotes healthy joint function and helps maintain consistent levels of HA in the blood and synovial fluid. Hyaluronan (HA) is a naturally occurring high-molecular-mass glycosaminoglycan found in connective, epithelial, and neural tissue. With its viscous and elastic properties, hyaluronan acts in joint spaces as a lubricant and a shock absorber. It is one of the major components of synovial fluid. LubriSynHA is a fast-absorbing oral form liquid of HA, designed to help restore joint fluid as it degrades through aging and exercise. NOBLEOUTFITTERS.CA 30 | EQUESTRIAN ONTARIO AUGUST ‘17
EO FEATURE
HOW TO BRAID LIKE A PRO PART III of III photos by cassandr a belisle photo gr aphy
HOW TO BRAID PERFECT TAILS HOW TO PERFECTLY HANG FAKE TAILS
SIERRA SNEATH
profes sion a l ‘a’ circ uit br a ider a nd ow ner of t w is ted ta il s
B
raiding your horse’s tail can help accentuate their hind end and complete the overall picture you present to the judge! A tail braid is simply a French braid; the type that adds hair every time you cross over the hair. It will typically be finished off with a wrap around or a pin wheel. You can also add a fake tail to make the tail look more luscious! Va-va-voom! Wet and brush the sides of the tail in the direction PREPARATION it will be braided. As explained in the first part of this series, it is best to wash and condition the tail first, making sure to thoroughly clean the dock of the tail so there is no scurf and dandruff. Only apply a detangling product below the tail bone on the ends of the hair only. You do not want to put detangler into the part of the tail that is going to be braided. Brush the tail thoroughly; I will lift the tail up slightly in order to comb the top half so I can get all the hair at the back since that is what will be getting pulled around into the French braid. Brush the hair from the back to the front, in the direction it will be braided (as shown below).
STARTING THE BRAID More often than not, I will use little braids in the top of the tail to start my tail braid. Many horses have rubbed their tails at some point so the hairs are usually shorter. I like to use them if the horse is going to be trailered or they have to have it braided all day long. I find I don’t have to pull on the hair as tight to keep the top in, which is more comfortable for the horse. If un-done correctly, there should be minimal breakage and hair loss. 1.
Start by wetting the top part of the tail. I then start with a small braid on the left side.
2.
Grab a small section of hair from the top left corner of the tail, try to grab all the shorter pieces from along the side of the hairline. Angle your section of hair towards the middle of the dock and separate your hair into 3 sections and start a braid. Add yarn the same as in a braid, I add on the 5-6 crossover then I count another 6-8 before tying.
3.
Tie the same as a braid (as shown below).
Step 2
4.
Do the same on the right side (as shown below).
5.
Cut extra string approx. an inch below your knot.
Step 5
IMPORTANT: Rewet the rest of the tail, focusing on the roots along the hairline. I also keep a bucket of water nearby so I can wet my fingers or rewet the tail as I go. Having wet hair helps keep the braid less frizzy and makes the hair you add to the braid look smooth and not messy! 6.
Start the braid by crossing the little braid (or hair section) from the left first, then cross the right over and grab where the hair meets with your right index finger and thumb. This should look like an X, and you should be holding the hair at all times where the middle is.
7.
While holding the first 2 sections with my right hand, I use my left hand to grab a 3rd small section of hair and cross it over the right section I just added. You now have the 3 sections of hair that you will be adding hair to the rest of the braid.
8.
Each time you make a crossover, you will add a small section of hair from the hairline on that side. Continue this all the way down until you reach the bottom of the tail bone.
IMPORTANT: To keep the braid straight, hold the middle of the braid (X) tight with your forefinger and thumb of whichever hand is not adding hair, and in the same vertical line. Try to keep the hair that you are adding into the braid at the same level as the middle of the braid(X). For example, do not grab hair to add to the braid if the roots are ½ inch above or below where you are crossing your braid over. If this becomes the case try adjusting how much hair you are adding on each cross over, or where you are taking it from. VERY IMPORTANT: Keep the hair wet as you braid! I find the hair being added goes in smoother and is easier to work with if it has some moisture. It is much easier to smooth out the hair before adding it to the braid when it is wet. It will help tame flyaways, and keep the braid looking uniform! FINISHING THE TAIL To end the French braid, I always finish by taking my last section of hair to add from the left side. There are 2 ways to finish: a wrap or a pinwheel. PINWHEEL 1. Once the last section of hair is added, you need to then continue as a regular braid without adding any hair. 2.
On the 5-6 crossover add your yarn the same way as you did on your starter braids.
3.
Then go down another 9 crossovers and tie it the same way as a mane braid.
4.
Separate the hair below where your yarn is tied into 2 sections with a piece of yarn in each section.
5.
Using both hands, take a section of hair in each hand and while holding it close to where the tie is at the bottom of the braid begin rolling the braid on top of itself until you get to the tail bone (as shown right, and below).
36 | EQUESTRIAN ONTARIO AUGUST ‘17
Step 1
Step 2
Step 3
6.
Holding the pinwheel tight with your index and forefinger, use your other hand to separate the yarn away from the unbraided hair (it is easier to work with when not fighting hair).
7.
Step 6 Take rug hook and insert it at the bottom of the French braid on the right side (above 1 or 2 sections of added hair) horizontally towards the same place on the other side of the braid. Grab the yarn from the left and pull it back through to the right side, all the way through.
Step 7
8.
Then repeat on the other side for the second piece of string. Continue holding the pinwheel during steps 7 and 8!!
9.
Whichever hand is not holding the pinwheel grabs the yarn on the same side of the pinwheel and pulls it snug, you can then let go of the pinwheel and grab the other piece of yarn and pull that snug.
10.
Cross each piece of yarn under the pinwheel to the other side and pull them snug.
11.
Then make a surgical knot and tighten it so the knot is on the topside of the pinwheel at the base of the braid.
Step 8
Step 9
Step 10
Step 11
12.
Knot 2-3 more times and cut the yarn close to knot (as shown below).
WRAP AROUND 1. Finish the French braid with the last section of hair added from the left side, then continue down 15-16 crossovers and add yarn the same way as you did on your starter braids. Continue for another 9 crossovers before tying off. NOTE: You can check the length of the wrap before you tie it by holding the ends and wrapping it around the bottom of dock to see where the end of the braid will be. 2.
Fold the braid up to the right, around the back of the dock, and to the front again. Where the loop has been created, pull the ends of the wrap braid through and pull snug.
3.
Adjust how the wrap is sitting at the bottom of the French braid and pull snug before tying. To tie the wrap I insert the rug hook through the middle of the wrap braid on the right side and grab one section of yarn. I then knot the 2 pieces of yarn and cut yarn close to the knot to finish.
38 | EQUESTRIAN ONTARIO AUGUST ‘17
Finished Pinwheel
Finished Wrap Around
Finished Pinwheel
HANGING A FAKE TAIL
There are many ways to hang fake tails, this is my preferred method. My personal hand made brand of fake tails, Twisted Tails, have a loop end instead of a bulky knob. This allows for a tail that lays flatter and more comfortably for the horse! A knob tail (shown left) and a loop end (shown right). The difference is clear to see!
IMPORTANT: I always hang a fake tail BEFORE I braid the tail. 1.
Hold the fake up to the horse’s tail to determine the desired height it is to be hung at.
2.
Once the height is determined, grab a section of hair close to the roots at that desired height to make a braid for anchoring the tail to. You can use a clip to keep extra hair out of the way. Make sure you have a decent amount of hair, it should be larger than a mane braid, close to double the size.
3.
Start a normal braid. As always, make 5-6 crossovers and add yarn into your braid. Make another 9 crossovers before tying off. Tie the same as a mane braid but add extra knots at the end for security and leave about an inch of yarn past the knot when cut.
4.
Add a couple pieces of yarn to the fake tail (as shown below).
40 | EQUESTRIAN ONTARIO AUGUST ‘17
5.
Using my rug hook and starting from the back side of the braid I go through the middle of the braid closest to the dock towards the front/top of braid. I then add the yarn I attached to the fake and pull it all the way through the braid to the back. Pull the yarn tight so the fake tail loop is snug against the braid.
6.
I usually have a total of 4 pieces of yarn so I separate them evenly so I have 2 pieces in each hand. I then take the yarn and make a surgical knot on top of the braid. Then make 3-4 regular knots and cut off the extra yarn.
Step 5
This method can be used when not braiding the tail as well!
Step 5
Step 6
Sierra Sneath is the owner of Twisted Tails, and a Professional Braider on the A Circuit. For more information on braiding at shows or purchasing a custom fake tail, contact Sierra through her Facebook page, Twisted Tails @CustomTwistedTails.
EO PRODUCTS
A PAIN IN THE GUT
Disturbing the Stomach Mucosa LAUREN MARLBOROUGH BSc (Hons), CESMT THE STOMACH The stomach contains two linings; the upper portion is the non-glandular or squamous (scale-like) lining and covers about one-third of the total area. This mucosa contains no glands and is covered by special squamous epithelium. This is where problems can often occur because it has little to no protection against hydrochloric stomach acid. The lower two-thirds of the stomach is glandular and is the location where acid and pepsin are secreted to digest food, as well as the production of bicarbonate and mucus, which help form a protective barrier over the mucosal surface. FOOD As grazers, horses produce gastric acid constantly, which is meant to be offset by nearly continuous eating and associated saliva production, which contains acid-buffering agents. Research has shown that when horses are fed frequently, the stomach contains food much of the time and the risk of stomach irritants are diminished as the food absorbs the acid. The type of food given to the horse can have an adverse effect on the stomach lining as well. Researchers have shown that horses consuming alfalfa hay have a lower incidence of gastric ulcers than horses consuming only pasture or grass hay as they believe alfalfa’s high calcium and protein content have a buffering effect in the stomach. EXERCISE Research by the University of Florida has shown that any exercise above a walk could force acidic gastric juices up into the sensitive areas of the equine stomach and has affected more than 80% of performance horses. 42 | EQUESTRIAN ONTARIO AUGUST ‘17
MEDICATION It has been shown that prolonged and excessive use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) drugs, such as phenylbutazone (Bute), flunixin meglumine (Banamine), and ketoprofen (Ketofen) have been associated with gastrointestinal problems in the glandular mucosa of horses. The administration of NSAID drugs impairs the inflammatory process by inhibiting the enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX) which is responsible for inflammatory response in the horse’s body and in turn, suppresses a critical component of the stomach lining’s protection, making it more susceptible to acid’s deleterious effects. CONCLUSION One should be aware that treating a horse with gastric issues can be a very expensive proposition, therefore, take advantage of preventative measures by utilizing the horse’s natural buffering mechanisms. Carefully consider the horse’s diet and feeding schedule, and provide the horse with as much pasture turnout as possible or a constant source of forage. Protect the gastric mucosa of the stomach with supplementation prior to exercise and performance, as this will no doubt have a positive effect on the horse’s attitude and performance. Such simple lifestyle and management changes in the daily schedule of your horse can go a long way towards avoiding potential gastric interruptions, especially when the stomach is concerned, to making your horse happier and healthier. This is an excerpt from the full article that can be found on the Omega Alpha website www.omegaalphaequine.com
EO SERVICES
WHAT IS EQUINE BIOMECHANICS? BY RUSSELL GUIRE OF CENTAUR BIOMECHANICS
Horses are amazing athletes that can perform an array of tasks demonstrating their ability for power, agility, and stamina. Some say that the horse is not designed to be ridden given its mechanical make up, highlighting further the complexity of how the horse can do what it does – how do they jump fences? How do they gallop? How do they turn tightly?
Q
uadrupedal locomotion is a fascinating area in the horse. If you were to look at paintings from the 1800s you will notice that the gallop sequence is incorrect. In 1877 and 1878 Eadweard Muybridge used multiple cameras to capture motion pictures of horse’s at the gallop. He captured gallop kinematics that showed a moment of suspension in the gallop sequence. In a biomechanical aspect his findings were of significance, but also allowed artists to paint horses correctly! Since then, there have been significant advances in technology allowing us to objectively evaluate whole horse locomotion, and more recently the interaction between the horse and rider.
Looking at the horse biomechanically, when stood still, we can divide the horse into sections, the axial skeleton and appendicular skeleton. The axial skeleton encompasses the head, neck, and pelvis; and the appendicular skeleton encompasses the front and hind limbs. Looking at the axial skeleton, beside the cervical vertebra (neck), the horse has a fairly ridged back, which could counter the notion that the horse should not be ridden. As if the back was flexible it would not be able to withstand the downward forces applied to it from the saddle, rider, training, and its own intestinal mass etc. Research has gone some way to look at spinal function in sound and lame horses, and as a result we have a greater understanding of back function along with modified equipment being used that is designed to optimise back function and the locomotor system. The axial skeleton is supported by the appendicular skeleton (limbs), which in essence is four columns - front, and hind limbs. The hind limbs are attached to the horse’s vertebral column via the pelvis and are responsible for generating large power impulses and propulsion. Force generated by the hind limb apparatus is transferred from the back to the front via the powerful muscles along the back, which aid the locomotion of the horse. This is in part responsible for contributing to horses being supreme athletes. 46 | EQUESTRIAN ONTARIO AUGUST ‘17
One of the most intriguing facts about horses, and also helps explain how horses can land over big fences, is the fact that the front limbs are not structurally attached to the horse’s vertebra column; the horse does not have a collar bone. With the horse standing square, the horse has 58% of his bodyweight on the front limbs and 42% of his body weight on the hind limbs. The goal of most equestrian sports is to alter this relationship by engaging the hindquarters to take more, thus giving the uphill/off the forehand appearance. The horse’s natural instinct is to stay upright and balanced. When a foal is born, within minutes it is making an attempt to stand up, and after a few failed attempts he will successfully stand. This instinct must not be underestimated, and horse owners/riders should take every effort to ensure that the training, equipment, management, etc. that is employed is striving to optimise the equilibrium and not affect their balance negatively. Using state of the art technology we have carried out extensive research looking at ways to help improve the horse’s welfare, soundness, and performance. In particular, we have carried out many research projects looking at how we can optimise the horse and rider system. One of the key areas is the saddle. The saddle provides the interface between horse and rider. What impact does a saddle have on the locomotion and performance of the horse and rider? The answer is significant. If you will, imagine carrying a backpack with straps over your shoulders. If the straps were tight and the bag was heavy then imagine how you would adjust your locomotion and how would your balance could be affected...?
AUGUST ‘17 EQUESTRIAN ONTARIO | 47
Working closely with qualified saddle fitters, we have attempted to evaluate how the saddle can affect locomotion and rider performance. One of the projects we have carried out is looking at the effect that a saddle that is positioned to the left or right of the vertebra has on the horse. In essence, how does saddle slip affect the horse and/or rider. We found that when a saddle was positioned to (for example) the left side, that the horse adjusted its locomotion by reducing it’s loading of the left front leg compared to the right. Coupled with other locomotor changes we also observed increased pressures beneath the saddle. With the saddle slipping left, increased pressures were located beneath the right panel. This is caused by the saddle slipping left resulting in the right panel being brought up close to the vertebral column, and thus increasing pressure. When the saddles had been straightened the locomotor differences seen in front limb loading disappeared and the asymmetric pressures beneath the saddle became more symmetrical, highlighting the horse’s response to saddle slip. Research has shown that riders can have a destabilising effect on the horses locomotion, and as such it is reasonable to assume that an asymmetrically positioned saddle would further compound this and therefore destabilise the horse, or cause the horse to develop compensation strategies in order to remain balanced. In simple terms, if you imagine sitting on someone’s shoulders and then either leaning or sitting one way, how would the person carrying you react? They would either step to the way you are leaning and or alter their movement in order to optimise both themselves and you. To further support this idea, data from our sensor based system looking at movement symmetry with the saddles positioned to one side, we had a movement symmetry index of greater than 9. Once the saddles had been corrected, the symmetry index went to less than 1. Values closest to zero represent 100% symmetry. Therefore, these horses were rebalancing and improving their locomotion and symmetry as a function of correct saddle balance. Thus far we have discussed the horse, but we must not forget the rider. How does the rider affect the horse? As already mentioned there has been some extensive work looking at horse and rider interaction, specifically rider position. One of our studies explored the effect that the rider has on the horse, referencing back to the previous study, with a saddle positioned to one side (slip) we found that this induced significant asymmetry to the rider. If you imagine sitting on a chair and cutting the chair legs on one side down three inches, how would you sit? Your seat would go to the side with the shortened legs, and in order to remain balanced and counteract the positioning of your seat you would side bend (collapse) to the opposite side. In a training context, trainers might say you are collapsing through one hip; the question would be, is the collapse through the hip as a result of rider position or as a result of saddle position? This observation might be supported with the trainer 48 | EQUESTRIAN ONTARIO AUGUST ‘17
saying that one stirrup is longer than the other; again, it could be; or it could be as a result of saddle position. This is the case as if the saddle has slipped to the left (for example) then the stirrup bar on the left is lower down thus hanging the leather lower and giving the perception that one leg is longer than the other. The question is, what causes what, do horses slip the saddles or do riders cause saddle slip? This is a question we are continually asking, and there has been some excellent work done where it was shown that saddles slip to the side of a lame hind limb. However, more work is needed to explore why some horses slip saddles even if they are perceived as sound. From a rider view point, we have found that the same rider can ride two horses, and only on one horse the saddle slips. Likewise, one rider with two horses, one saddle slips to the left and the other to the right. That said, during a study we carried out in 2016 looking at rider perception versus objective measures. We asked the riders to sit on a pressure mat on a static object, whilst sitting they had to determine when they were sitting on both their seat bones. When satisfied that they were, data was collected; this was repeated three times. Despite the riders declaring that they felt that they had equal weighting of their seat bones, they did so with more weight on the left seat bone. In effect, despite feeling straight they were actually sitting with more weight on the left seat bone. This is interesting as this data was collected off the horse using a static platform mimicking riding position. In conclusion, riders need to be more aware of their own posture and asymmetries before they ride in order to have the best chances of maintaining balance and not comprising the horse’s locomotion. The rider has a duty of care to ensure that their saddles are in balance and regularly serviced by a qualified saddle fitter. As outlined, studies have shown that asymmetric saddle position and poor saddle fit will have a negative effect on the horse and as such comprising its locomotion and performance, but more importantly comprising the welfare of the horse. Remember, horses can feel a fly, why can they not feel a saddle which is positioned to one side or a rider leaning to one side?! Here you will see how the rider was riding at the beginning of the clinic: very crooked!
At the end of the clinic, it is easy to see that the horse and rider are now both straight!
Russell Guire founded Centaur Biomechanics in 2006, specializing in horse and rider performance using the latest software and techniques available to help improve performance and maintain soundness of both horse and rider! Since then, Russell has given presentations on the use and application of biomechanics and has spoken at over 100 venues throughout Europe and America. For more information, please visit www.centaurbiomechanics.co.uk. In Canada visit VisualizeCanada.ca.
EO PRODUCTS
Purica’s Newest Equine Supplement
Equine H.A 300
What is Equine H.A. 300? Equine H.A. 300 is a high potency Hyaluronic Acid product that also features high levels of Vitamin C (in the best form), with a small dose of Tasty Fibre. Generally, H.A supplements have 100mg of H.A per maintenance dose, although some may contain 200-300mg per serving. Equine H.A 300 has excellent value as it contains 300mg of H.A per serving, as well as 7000mg of Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid). Equine H.A 300 is a powder supplement that is available in two sizes 330g (30 day supply) or 990g (90 day supply). What is Hyaluronic Acid? Hyaluronic Acid is a substance that is naturally present in both the human & animal body. It is found in the highest concentrations in fluids of the eyes and joints. In humans, the amount in the body is 50% less than optimal by age 40! This is why it is a key ingredient in Recovery Extra Strength. H.A is safe as it is naturally occurring in the body, and is especially beneficial as we age, or if we are under a heavy workload/prone to injury. Benefits of H.A. include: • Cushioning joints and nerve tissue • Stabilizing fluid breakdown within joints Everything Purica does is based on Nature, but also backed by Science. A few recent studies on the benefits of oral administration of H.A. have been published on pubmed. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3512263
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4729158
Why add Vitamin C? Vitamin C is well known for it’s immune benefits. But did you know it is essential in the production of collagen, which is the main structural protein found in skin and other connective tissues? It is also widely used in purified form for cosmetic surgical treatments. Vitamin C is another key ingredient in Recovery, and is the best available human grade Ascorbic Acid form. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that blocks some of the damage caused by free radical substances that damage DNA. The build up of free radicals over time may contribute to the aging process and the development of health conditions such as cancer, heart disease, and arthritis. Benefits of Vitamin C include: • Essential for the growth and repair of tissues in all parts of the body • Needed for healing wounds, and for repairing and maintaining bones and teeth • Helps the body absorb iron from non-heme sources 50 | EQUESTRIAN ONTARIO AUGUST ‘17
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fr om
equine
h.A. 300 Extra strength hyaluronic acid Supports joint health and function each serving contains:
hyaluronic acid 300 mg
Natural lubricating compound for joint and skin health.
vitamin c 7000 mg
Necessary nutrient for the development, maintenance and healing of connective tissue throughout the whole body. Vegan
Gluten-free
Non-GMO
Available in 30 or 90 day supplies.
GEORGIA HUNT RIDING FOR FOXSTONE VENTURE
Vegan
Gluten-free
Non-GMO
Nature. Science. Your Horse.
A healthy horse is a happy horse
EO RIDER HEALTH
CONDITION FOR SUCCESS ENDURANCE RIDING PRINCIPLES TO IMPROVE YOUR HORSE’S FITNESS SARAH CUTHBERTSON & ASHLEY TOMASZEWSKI OF EAT, SLEEP, RIDE, REPEAT www.eatsleepriderepeat.com Taking a break. Photo Credit: Lindsay Barker
W
ith any luck, our previous articles on distance riding have piqued your interest in trying out the fast-growing sport and you are now wondering how to prepare your horse. It is difficult to write an article on conditioning a horse for distance riding as every horse is unique. There are many different methods of conditioning but they all have one thing in common: long, slow distance. Going too fast and too far too soon will inevitably lead to injury. There are three main things to consider when fitting your horse up for endurance: 1. Horse’s physical fitness 2. Horse’s mental fitness 3. Recovery PHYSICAL FITNESS The purpose of long, slow distance (LSD) training is to prepare the horse to be able to perform about 45-60 minutes of easy exercise at a walk, trot, and canter, at an average speed of 6-8km/h. This process can take anywhere from 2-12 months depending on the horse and their base fitness level. Once your horse is able to do this, then it is time to re-evaluate your conditioning program and tailor it to what your goals are.
An important tip to keep in mind when fitting up a horse that is new to endurance is that the cardiovascular system is quicker to get in shape than the musculoskeletal system. Do not be fooled into thinking that your horse is at his peak performance level because his heart rate drops quickly after exercise! When you first start conditioning you don’t need to be overly concerned with heart rates, because the work will be slow enough not to produce great cardio-vascular stress. However, as you progress heart rate recovery will become increasingly important. It is a good idea to start from the beginning with checking your horse to get a feel for how your horse’s heart rate changes with various levels of stress. Learning how to use a stethoscope is an invaluable endurance training tool. Assuming that you have a broke, but unfit horse, the best way to start conditioning is by going for slow trail rides. While trotting is the most utilized gait in distance riding, the walk is extremely important for conditioning. In your training sessions, the horse must walk with a purpose and not saunter. Using varied terrain, it is a great low-impact way to condition the legs and tendons and walking up hills helps the horse to build strong muscle. Gradually substitute some trotting for some of the walking periods and increase the distance you ride. Never increase speed and distance at the same time. Example of a typical conditioning week: Day 1 Long slow distance Day 2 Rest Day 3 Intense day & hills, interval training play with the speed Day 4 Rest Day 5 Schooling in the ring Day 6 Rest Day 7 Lighter day of riding or schooling since you plan a LSD ride the next day. You could also do ground work exercises with your horse. AUGUST ‘17 EQUESTRIAN ONTARIO | 53
A general rule of thumb is to ride in a week what you are planning to ride in competition (ex. if you are preparing for an entry level 24 km ride, you will want to aim for riding 20-30 km a week)., The appropriate frequency of exercise depends on whether the objective is to improve, maintain or reduce the level of fitness. When the objective is to increase cardiovascular fitness, workouts are usually performed three times per week on alternate days, which allows time for tissue repair between workouts. More frequent days of exercise are unlikely to produce a faster conditioning response and may predispose to injury by not allowing sufficient time between workouts for tissue repair. Light exercise may hasten the repair process, so it is not necessary for the horse to have complete rest on the intervening days. For maintenance of cardiovascular fitness, one or two workouts per week is sufficient. During a busy competition season, the actual race or competition may serve as the workout. Fitness can be lost when the workouts are performed less frequently than once per week or when workload is reduced. Too little stress on tissues will not produce a beneficial muscle and tissue adaptation, but too much stress or insufficient recovery time between workouts can lead to overtraining. Overloading of the muscular system through excessive training causes muscular strains. However, it is the supporting structures of the limbs (bone, cartilage, ligaments and tendons) that adapt most slowly to the stimulus of exercise and are particularly susceptible to overloading injuries in the form of fractures or strains. Therefore, training intensity should be carefully monitored. MENTAL FITNESS Mental conditioning is even more individualized than the physical conditioning. For a horse new to endurance, the most basic thing he should be able to handle is to be able to be ridden alone or without others. If your horse does not listen to you on trail, he is not mentally ready to handle distance riding. Your horse will be even more amped up on ride day so you want to be confident that he will do what you ask him to. At rides, you will be passed by other riders, or they may be times your horse will have to go on without his buddy. Not only is it dangerous to Fit horse. Photo Credit: Wendy Webb
have a horse ignore you while he is calling and trying to reach his friend, if this happens at any of the vet checks, you may end up being disqualified because your horse’s heart rate is too high! Another mental issue you may run in to is that the horse gradually gets spookier and spookier. This can be a sign that you are asking too much from your horse too soon. Try not to make every riding day a workout. Try a new trail (or the same trail but in a different direction) or spend some time grazing on the trail. Visit your horse on rest days to just groom them or give them a treat so they don’t always associate you with work. Every now and then your horse just needs a little downtime to regain mental clarity. RECOVERY There is a general rule to give your horse one day off for every 16km ridden. This is obviously just a generalization and you need to take into account your horse, the speed you travelled, the terrain, the time spent on the trailer, and how well your horse recovers in the days after. This goes for both conditioning and after competition. If time off is not given, the tiny muscle fibers are not given a chance to repair and recover, which can lead to backward steps in your conditioning program. Over conditioning is just as bad as under conditioning. When starting back after your time off period, it is important to not go right back to training for speed or distance; start with a light, easy ride and build up from there. It is also important to give your horse time off prior to competition for the same reasons. If you are competing on a Saturday, your last hard workout day should be Tuesday or Wednesday. It is a common mistake to panic and work the horse too hard the week before a ride! Hopefully this will have given you a good starting reference point for conditioning your horse. There are many sample conditioning programs out there but remember that each horse is different and you will have to account for that in your program. Endurance is not a fly by night sport and your thorough preparation is the best ingredient for you and your horse’s success! Photo Credit: Lindsay Barker
EO PRODUCTS
THE POWER OF OMEGAS
O
mega-3 fatty acids are considered essential, meaning that the body can’t make them itself, so they must be obtained in sufficient amounts from the diet. They are necessary for the body’s functions; for everything from taking inflammation out of the body and creating better blood circulation, to repairing and healing joint inflammation improving digestion. Equine Omega Complete is a specifically formulated blend of all-natural, GMO-free, mechanically expelled soybean oil with added, human grade, deep water, wild caught fish oil and nonsynthetic vitamin E through d-alpha-tocopherol. It is designed to supply a balance of omega-6 and omega-3fatty acids and is a good source of LA, ALA, EPA and DHA. We also recommend feeding Equine Omega Complete with a low-fat, complete grain. Since our product is an oil and nearly 100% crude fat, mixing it with a low-fat complete grain ensures that we know where the majority of the fat in the diet is coming from. Since Equine Omega Complete is an allnatural, healthy option for fat supplementation, owners can be sure that they are supplying a good source of healthy fat when pairing our product with a lower fat grain option. Equine Omega Complete can be top-dressed over grain or directly over your horse’s hay. We recommend a daily maintenance dose of 4 ounces for a 1,200 pound horse (1 ounce for every 300 pounds) to be given in one sitting or split into two servings of 2 ounces twice daily. Equine Omega Complete has a loading dose of 4 ounces twice a day for 10 days. Maintenance dose is 4 ounces or 4 pumps a day. Travelling or competing dose is 6 to 8 ounces a day. Using Equine Omega Complete can greatly benefit horses in these areas; • Joint & Inflammatory Support • Can Increase Oxygen/Blood Flows • Can Help Reduce Colic Symptoms • Ideal for Breeding Stallions & Mares • Helps Grow Healthier Hooves • Aids in Cell Function • May Help With Respiratory Problems • Helps in Faster Recovery • Supports a Stronger Immune System • May Help With Allergy Symptoms • Promotes Better Gut Health • Helps Delay Lactic Acid Buildup TRY IT TODAY SOUTHERNEQUINEDISTRIBUTING.COM
56 | EQUESTRIAN ONTARIO AUGUST ‘17
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905-691-5141
SIGNIFICANTLY
LESS CHANCE OF
COLIC AND DID W E MENTION SUPER B JOINT SUPPORT AS W ELL?
AUGUST ‘17 EQUESTRIAN ONTARIO | 57
EO HOROSCOPE
BEST JOBS
FOR THE 12 HORSE SIGNS ARIES March 21 – April 20 This is a fire/active, cardinal/initiating sign. These horses will be happy participating in anything that requires a competitive spirit, speed, or being in front. Racing, cross country, jumping, or polo to name a few. As long as you put them in the position of leading they are happy!
TAURUS April 21 – May 20 Here we have an earth/stable, fixed/ stubborn sign. Steady as she goes. These guys have great endurance. They love trail work, lessons in the arena, side saddle, and even dressage. They do not mind repetition or work that others might consider boring.
GEMINI May 21 – June 20 Here we have an air sign – they are very flexible, and all over the place. Variety is the name of the game. Quick and agile: polo, cross country, jumping, or driving comes to mind. Their attention span is very short so the activity level will need to be high. CANCER June 21 – July 20 This is a water sign, where emotions run 58 | EQUESTRIAN ONTARIO AUGUST ‘17
high. The key here is in the training. With that well done, this horse can do well in show and dressage. They make wonderful lesson horses and do well when they can stay home in their own arena.
LEO July 21 – August 20 This sign is ruled by the Sun, and it is a fire/ active sign. They will enjoy anything big and glamorous; such as riding in a parade, any kind of show riding, films, or advertising. Bring on the lights, cameras, and action! Give them the opportunity to show off and they are happy. VIRGO August 21 – September 20 Here we have an earth mutable sign that brings stability. These horses are very good at jobs requiring precision. They are good at dressage and the repetitive training patterns of Eventing. They do not like risk, so they can learn most anything that is consistent and safe. LIBRA September 21 – October 20 An air sign, intelligent/social, cardinal/goal oriented. Since this is the sign of partnership, team driving would be a great job for them. They also would do well at dressage,
or any skill that requires balance, cooperation and teamwork. SCORPIO October 21 – November 20 This sign is fixed water. The water provides the intuition and feeling, and the fixed makes it all very intense, powerful, and deep.The sign of strength and staying power. Endurance and cross country riding are good matches. Also polo and long distance trail riding, pretty much any sport that requires a lot of power.
SAGITTARIUS November 21 – December 20 Mutable fire – what a combination. Hunt class, cross country, jumping, are all naturals for this horse. Anything that requires traveling and running will work for these adventure-loving creatures. They are most happy when they are outside.
CAPRICORN December 21 – January 20 This is an earth sign, consistent, reliable, and cardinal – so there must always be a job or purpose. These horses thrive on disci-
pline, structure and routine so you can train them until the Sun goes down. They’ll do pretty much anything you can teach them that is repetitive. Not a risk taker or built for speed. AQUARIUS January 21 – February 20 A fixed air sign, there is no such thing as consistency with these natives. Expect the unexpected. This one is one-of-a-kind, and it will depend on many things to do it justice. Let’s just say anything that requires endurance and change. Could be jumping when it is always a different course, and maybe racing. PISCES February 21 – March 20 Here we have mutable water, the most sensitive and vulnerable of all the equines. They are like sponges and take in everything from everyone and anything in their environment. Lots of potential here for Pisces, they have a natural sense of rhythm and love of music that make them good for dressage. They are good with children because they are kind and gentle. These horses pick up on all the energies around them, and they are naturals in their ability to heal humans.
Samantha Marshall is a world-class astrologer, practicing for over 35 years. She has also been working as a facilitator, counselor, and coach in the area of personal development for over 32 years! Samantha now integrates the Equine Gestalt Coaching Method™ with astrological chart readings – giving the recipient another dimension to their experience! To find out more about how to get your own horse’s chart done, and your compatibility, go to www.equineastrology.com. For more information on Equine Gestalt Coaching, go to www.equiserene.com, or e-mail Samantha directly at: Samantha@equiserene.com.
AUGUST ‘17 EQUESTRIAN ONTARIO | 59
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Crossword
TO DOW N LOA D V I S I T: EQU EST R I A NON TA R IO.COM /CROSSWOR D
DOWN 1. Bernie of EquestrianCoach.com 2. ____-reach boots (also known as bell boots) 3. String typically used for braiding. 4. Another term for cross cantering. 7. Marking on a horse’s face. 9. Type of hay that is high in protein, vitamins, and minerals. 10. Training a horse may be referred to as such. 11. Conformation flaw; ___-hocked 13. Long hair on the neck of horses. 16. Nick Skelton’s famous (now retired) mount. 18. Another term for arena. 19. Bag for hanging hay that a horse can eat out of. 20. An aid that helps your horse to balance: ____-halt. 22. Favourite treat for many horses. 23. Another term for poles. 26. Short for equitation.
DESIGNED BY SAMANTHA FAWCETT
ACROSS 1. Part of the standard mix for grass hay. 5. Colour of a third place ribbon in Canada. 6. You hold onto them while riding. 8. Another term for coach. 10. Type of knot used to secure a braid. 12. Left or ______. 14. One way to finish a tail braid. 15. A horse that startles easily might be referred to as such. 17. Type of braid used on a forelock. 21. Sore or injured. 23. “_____ the bar.” 24. A rope that may be used for catching cattle or horses. 25. A type of jump that may be seen in a hunter or derby class. 27. Your horse may accidentally do this to your foot.
BRUNO DELGRANGE & ERIC LAMAZE, ONE STEP CLOSER TO PERFECT RIDING*
MODÈLE ATHÉNA
* U N PA S D E P L U S V E R S U N E É Q U I TAT I O N PA R FA I T E .
JACQUES FERLAND 514.912.7976 jacques@delgrangesaddles.com
WENDY GOOD 416.574.8709 wendy@delgrangesaddles.com