Saddle Up December 2021

DECEMBER 2021

SADDLEUP.CA

CANOA FARMS

FREE

in Merritt

Presents

THE HUNTSMAN

2004 APHA/PtHA 6 Panel N/N Stallion Guaranteed Colour Foal Publications Mail Reg. No. 40045521 Printed in Canada

DECEMBER 2021

Photo: L. Larson

SADDLEUP.CA • 1

2 • DECEMBER 2021

SADDLEUP.CA

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SADDLEUP.CA • 3

From the Editor…

ALSO AVAILABLE DIGITALLY

HCBC 2010 Business of The Year 2014 A/S Chamber President’s Choice Award Publisher/Editor Nancy Roman MAIN OFFICE TOLL FREE 1-866-546-9922 250-546-9922 nancyroman@saddleup.ca www.saddleup.ca MAILING ADDRESS Saddle Up magazine PO Box 371 Armstrong, BC, Canada V0E 1B0

H

O HO HO…ly did this year just zoom past… actually the last two years – Covid just sped everything up!

We just had our first skiff of snow on the ground this morning in Armstrong… but it’s gone already. It’s up in them thar hills… (and highway mountain passes) just not down here yet. Last year around this time, we already had two dumpings of the white stuff. Cross our fingers for a nice, uneventful winter.

Well Saddle Up is going to be changing up our website and Facebook page over the holidays.

Nothing overly drastic – just a ‘freshening’ up. We hope all changes will be in place for January 1st. If any of you have some ideas or suggestions, pass them on over to me.

So I am off now for a month – remember, no January issue! Our next deadline is January 5th for the February issue.

Stay safe everyone, particularly over the holidays.

Drive safe too,

Printed In Canada produced by OKANAGAN PRINTING a division of

EPublishing in Armstrong, BC 250-546-6477

Publications Mail Reg. No. 40045521 GST Reg. No. 865839567 ISSN No. 1701-6002 © All Rights Reserved

ON THE COVER: Canoa Farms, www.canoafarms.com CONTRIBUTORS: Dustin Drader, Melody Garner-Skiba, Elisha Bradburn, Glenn Stewart, Elisa Marocchi, Birgit Stutz, Lisa Wieben, Jenise Carl, Russ Shandro OFFICIAL VOICE FOR: Back Country Horsemen of BC, Lower Mainland Quarter Horse Association

MEDIA PARTNER WITH HORSE COUNCIL BC

FEATURES DEADLINE 5

TH

OF EVERY MONTH

SUBSCRIPTIONS $24.00 CDN plus tax per year or $42 US per year.

(12 issues) Reproduction of any materials without written permission from the editor is prohibited. Opinions and statements expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the editor.

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OUR REGULARS Top Dog!

24

PHOTO CONTEST

5

What is the Filter or Grid…

6

Horse Council BC

27

El Centro Equine Services

8

Lower Mainland QH Assoc.

31

Groundwork Exercise

10

RHR Weanling Challenge

12

Kindness 14 In the Driver’s Seat with Elisa

16

Neurolymphatic Massage

18

**Holiday Gift Guide Part 2

20

KIDS 26

Back Country Horsemen of BC 32 What’s Happening? Let’s Go!

33

What’s This?

33

Clubs/Associations 34 Stallions/Breeders 35 Business Services

36

On the Market (photo ads)

38

Rural Roots (Real Estate)

39

Shop & Swap

39

Saddle Up's Facebook

December Photo Contest Theme should be Christmas of course!

Send us a photo of you with your horse, or you with your dog – showing your Christmas spirit!

You have until December 30th, 2021 to show us that photo on our Facebook page.

Don’t do Facebook? You can email directly to nancyroman@saddleup.ca

OCTOBER’S

Alana Vos-Lindsay of CONTEST Vernon BC

Silly Selfie WINNER!

Supplying Your Pets with NEW and Unique Products!

https://finnandfletcher.com

What Can You Win?

Our generous sponsor, The Finn & Fletcher Co., has the following prize CHOICES for the winner: New Synthetic Pony Western Saddle in Purple, Pink or Blue OR a Dog Coat and Snoozer Dog Bed OR a Selection of AWST Giftware - as can be seen on our Finn & Fletcher Website (up to a value of $275 retail!)

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE! GOOD LUCK! Contest is open/shipping to Canadian residents only.

BREEDING FOR PERFORMANCE? OR FOR A GREAT ALL-ROUND TRAIL HORSE?

THE HUNTSMAN is Your Guy! 100% Colour For Every Foal

2004 APHA/PtHA Stallion UC Davis Tested for the Homozygous Tobiano gene 6 Panel Tested and Negative

The Huntsman’s pedigree is loaded with some of the most influential Stallions of all time.

Dixie War Drum, Secretariat, Three Bars, Peter McCue, Poco Bueno, Man O’War, Joe Hancock, Spotted Bull, Nasrullah, Bold Ruler, Nearco and War Admiral. * Offspring are winning in the ring or on the field, with the added bonus of COLOUR! * “Hunter” has multiple wins in Performance classes, points in the APHA PAC program, and Championships in Mountain Trail. Hunter is also racking up his RIDE AMERICA and is well over 3000 hours and still logging them in.

2022 STUD FEE: $850 plus collection & shipping Services provided by Winsome Meadows in Merritt BC Visit The Huntsman Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/thehuntsmanstallion/

The Huntsman lives at Canoa Farms in Merritt BC where we hold regular clinics for Mountain Trail, and one BC Mountain Trail Sanctioned show once a year in the fall.

See our Facebook page for events coming in 2022, https://www.facebook.com/CanoaFarms For more information contact Kelly Allen at kellybrookallen@hotmail.com or call 250-378-1670

DECEMBER 2021

SADDLEUP.CA • 5

What is the Filter or Grid you Look Through?

By Glenn Stewart

We are not born with these filters or grids.

They are slowly built or weaved over time.

The experiences we’ve had, the things we have seen or think we’ve seen, what we have been told or overheard or thought we heard. It is our perception, and perception is reality until it can be proven differently to us and then we get a new perception.

Y

ears ago a lady brought a stallion to me to work with. The stallion was shown as a halter horse at different shows and was winning top honours and taking all the trophies. However the stallion was getting to be more and more out of control as time went by and finally was banned from any more shows. The trainer that trained and showed the horse from the start couldn’t handle him any longer either, so the stallion was left with owners. One day when the husband was feeding, the stallion took him down with his teeth and front feet.

By the time the fellow crawled under the bottom rail out of the pen, the stallion had broken his collarbone and a rib or two and bruised him up pretty badly. The horse wasn’t safe even to feed anymore. Someone that knew me suggested to the owners that they give me a call. I agreed to have a look at the stallion to see if I could help.

When they arrived they led the stallion to a steel round pen and turned him loose. When I say “led him,” the stallion was actually the one doing the leading, squealing, rearing, trying to bite and I wasn’t sure if they were going to make it to the round pen alive, let alone in one piece. I was working with another horse at the time and while I was finishing up I got to watch the stallion. All by himself in the round pen he would squeal, rear, throw himself on the ground, urinate all over himself and bite at his ribs.

He would swing his head so fast and hard that his teeth would thump into his ribs. Then he would bite a bunch of his own hide and pull until it would come out from between his teeth and you could hear his teeth snap together. I finished up with the first horse and it was time to go have a visit with the stallion. I was thinking that I would be in the arena by myself as usual with the horse, and maybe the owner, but as it was getting closer to the time to start with the stallion, people started arriving. At first I didn’t know why they were all there but they all headed to the sitting area above the stallion’s pen and were waiting for the show. Someone had talked about the stallion and the word had got out and it had created quite a bit of interest with the local

cowboys.

As I approached the pen the stallion ran at the fence, turned his head sideways and tried to bite me through the rails. Then he would turn, run away and come at me again. The people that came to watch really were not my supporters. After watching the stallion for a while, they thought I was out of my mind to actually be trying to get in the pen.

They suggested getting a gun and shooting the horse and that the horse was a waste of time. At the very least a 2X4 to chase him away or rifle in case the stallion got me down and they could shoot him to save me. As I said earlier, they weren’t really my supporters, but they were really beginning to dislike the horse and kind of warming up to me just because I was actually going in the pen.

The owner was hopeful something could be done but to date had only seen the horse get worse. The other fellows that came to watch clearly figured the horse only needed lead between the ears… that he was no good for anything and was a crazy man killer.

I looked at the horse with my filters and wondered what had happened to the poor fellow to make him hate humans that much. I saw a smart horse that had learned all these behaviours from the handling he had been receiving. He wasn’t born biting himself, rearing, squealing, throwing himself on the ground and attacking people. I also wondered what kind of anxiety he must be feeling to be biting his own body and thrashing wildly around the pen even when no one was near.

My filters based on what I’ve learned and seen indicated to me that he doesn’t want to be like that, but has had enough of whatever he had been getting and had found a way to keep people away from him. I knew the horse had his own filter that he viewed humans through, and it was a filter that was not going to be easily changed.

The people watching, the owner and me were all looking at the same horse, same situation all with our own set of filters.

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This is Keily and "Hunter" - another pair who will view each other through a positive set of filters or grids.

Carson Stewart with River

Here is River all grown up, with her owner Candice.

River is a confident inquisitive mare, and because of her upbringing here on The Ranch as one of Jet’s foals, she filters everything she sees from a place of calmness and curiosity, and her behaviour stems from how she perceives humans as fair and fun.

I spent 10 days with that horse and changed his perception at least towards one human and was happy to know that my filter was working.

He didn’t want to be the way he was, and with a different approach and looking at him through my own particular filters, a horse emerged that wasn’t trying to mutilate itself and everything around it. The owner cried daily at the transformation. Many times in the 10 days I thought, “I’m not going to get out of this round pen alive,” but each day got better as a trust and respect grew between us.

There was obviously much that went on in the 10 days and much

Misty Morning by Andrew Kiss

Horses are born with genetic and innate characteristics, a filter or grid in which they view the world is changed by interactions with humans. This paint foal “River” (with Glenn) has a filter that humans are safe to be curious about, and that when they touch her it feels nice.

more to the story but this is what I know…

A positive filter, even if only for one of the two in the pen at the start, still created a positive for both in the end.

Glenn offers year round educational horsemanship programs at his facility near Fort St John BC and is available to travel and conduct clinics. For more information visit www.thehorseranch.com.

(See his listing in our Business Services section under TRAINERS)

Oil on canvas, 36”x48” DECEMBER 2021

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The Drader family: Dustin and Heidi, Dominic and Dylan, Carlo

Kelowna’s El Centro Equine Services Dustin giving instruction at a clinic

El Centro client Audrey Campbell and Paris at the MCR Eventing Derby

As 2020 wound down and came to a close, many of us breathed a sigh of relief, and the hope and anticipation of a better year in 2021 was almost palpable.

Dustin introduces a young horse to cattle work

H

owever, we soon realized that the pandemic was not going away anytime soon, and although Covid-19 protocols eased somewhat in the spring, the summer brought with it unprecedented heat waves, massive wildfires and poor air quality that for many days had horses and riders brought to a halt.

Here at El Centro Equine Services, the challenges that accompanied all of these served to pique our creativity and motivate us to pursue new ventures.

In April, the El Centro Therapeutic Riding Program kicked off, providing the Okanagan’s only year-round service to riders of all ages with diversabilities. We were very pleased to welcome CanTRA certified instructor Michelle Warren to our team. Michelle comes with 12 years of experience and manages the program of 16-plus participants, with a waiting list for this much-needed therapeutic activity.

As restrictions lightened, El Centro’s clients were able to once again participate in larger outdoor group events. 4-H lessons in shifts, clinics with small group sizes and in-house schooling shows at Mission Creek Ranch in Kelowna were a welcome return to some sense of normalcy.

In July and October, Dustin Drader’s students were delighted to ride in Mission Creek Ranch’s first Eventing Derbies. These were highlights for all of us, as many shows around the province had been cancelled throughout the season.

In June, El Centro partnered with the Kitchen family of Grassland Grazers Ranch in Beaverdell BC, to provide the first in a series of Horsemanship and Stockmanship weekend clinics. September’s clinic saw another fantastic turnout, with participants especially enjoying the cattle work aspect of the weekend. We look forward to partnering 8 • DECEMBER 2021

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CanTRA instructor Michelle Warren with a student, volunteers, and Jandy

with Grassland Grazers again in 2022 to offer another three-part clinic series! For more information on these clinics, please visit www. elcentroequine.com.

Dustin Drader’s training and coaching style is heavily influenced by the methods of Buck Brannaman, Ray Hunt and Tom Dorrance, and he has become known in the Okanagan Valley for solidly starting horses and teaching lessons to riders of all disciplines.

El Centro Equine Services considers it a continuing privilege to be operating out of Mission Creek Ranch alongside like-minded industry professionals such as Daryl and Lynda Ramsay of D&L Equine. The beautiful 70 acre property is centrally located in the heart of Kelowna and has been home to us for over six years.

We thank all of our clients for making it a great year. Team El Centro is a family that encourages each other. Together, we overcame the challenges of 2021 and we are very much looking forward to taking great strides in the New Year.

DECEMBER 2021

SADDLEUP.CA • 9

By Lisa Wieben and Birgit Stutz | Photos by Lisa Wieben Handler - Andrea Morrison, Horse - MCR Silver Dream, 9-year-old Quarter Horse gelding

Whether we like it or not, winter is here to stay. While some riders are fortunate to have access to a heated indoor arena, or at least an indoor arena, many riders don’t. Cold temperatures, snow, ice, uneven footing, and short daylight hours can make it difficult to safely exercise our horses.

Don’t feel guilty. There is nothing wrong with letting your horse have a break. It may be beneficial for him physically and mentally to have a break from his regular workout (as long as he still gets some turnout).

The handler’s position is between the neck and shoulders with her hand underneath the throat in line with the middle of the chest. The horse is stepping nicely back in diagonal pairs.

owever, if you are looking for things to do with your horse that keeps your horse and you in shape, as well as keeping you warm… there are lots of groundwork exercises you can do.

Here’s a groundwork exercise that we like. It’s also great for horses who can’t be ridden. The exercise can be done anywhere, as long as the footing is reasonably even.

In this exercise the horse will first be learning how to back-up, which is a two-beat movement where the horse moves backward in diagonal pairs. Many horses can be lazy in the back-up and back incorrectly in four beats (each foot moving separately), drag their feet back, or invert (lifting their head and hollowing their back).

As you move through the exercises the horse will become lighter and more true in the back-up as well as develop more push forward when asked to walk or jog/trot forward. Ideally you want to start the exercise along a wall or fence, but it can also be done without it.

If you need a refresher on proper leading, check out our articles in the March and April 2019 issues of Saddle Up (see www.saddleup. ca, click on ‘Archive’). You can also find the articles at https:// fallingstarranch.wordpress.com/.

To cue the horse to back-up

Start by standing next to your horse’s shoulder or just between the shoulder and throat, facing forward. Hold the rope like a rein, with your wrist turned so the thumb is level. The basic hand position is under the horse’s throat directly in line with the middle of the body in order to keep the horse straight. Keep your body aligned with the horse. Your belly button (core) should be facing straight ahead, in alignment with the centre of the horse’s chest. Imagine a railroad track, with you walking on the one track and the horse’s spine following the other track. The two tracks are always aligned (parallel or congruent).

To back the horse, stand tall beside the horse and holding pressure on the lead to prevent the horse from stepping forward, cue the horse to move forward into the blocking pressure by clucking and either tapping with the whip near the flank or using your lead rope behind you. Once the horse feels the block in front he should round and step backward.

At this point many horses will push through the block and step

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forward. If this happens you can push the horse into a circle around you, then ask for the halt by breathing out or saying ‘whoa’ when you get back to the fence line or wall. Repeat the cue into the contact until the horse takes a step back. When he does, reward him well. Teaching the back-up in this way prepares the horse to back-up by rounding his back and stepping back, much like we do when backing the horse using leg pressure when riding (see previous article).

Once the horse understands the backup cue, then you can move onto the next part of the exercise.

Walk, halt, back-up, walk Stand beside your horse and pick up contact on the lead rope, then ask the horse to take the first step before joining in. This will maintain the contact without you inadvertently pulling on the rope. It is important to work the horse from back to front by “pushing” the horse from the hind end into your receiving, never pulling hand.

Maintain contact on the lead. After several steps forward, stop your body, then cue your horse to back-up (as above).

Don’t change your body position during the transitions and remember to breathe through the transitions. At first the horse may be a bit sluggish to step back but continue to cue until the horse steps back, then proceed immediately forward. The reward is going forward. Continue to work walk, halt, back-up until the horse moves easily from one movement to the next and is backing in clear diagonal pairs. If the horse needs a little extra encouragement to back-up you may use your whip level across the chest or your lead to tap the chest. Keep your energy low so that the horse does not lift his head to step back.

Here the handler is pushing the horse’s hind end around on a circle as a correction for him pushing through her back-up cue. practice your horse will begin to tune in to your body language and move quickly from one movement to the other. Once he can do this in a walk, then begin to ask for a jog/ trot forward. Walk, back, trot or trot back trot. You will be amazed at how responsive your horse gets and how light on his feet he becomes as you play with this exercise.

Then you can practice walking and trotting circles, adding transitions anywhere.

Eventually you won’t even need your lead to play with your horse!

Remember to practice from both sides of the horse.

If you are unsure of where you are heading, it is always a good idea to connect with a coach that knows the sport you want to prepare for. We (Lisa and Birgit) are both available for online and in-person lessons.

Be sure to send your questions to nancyroman@saddleup.ca as we will answer another reader question next month.

Trotting forward after the back-up.

Lisa Wieben’s passion is empowering women in becoming confident and healthy riders. As an Energy Medicine Practitioner and Clinical Somatics Practitioner she addresses pain, tension, hormones, stress, and the issues that appear as a result. As a Centered Riding Instructor and Irwin Insights Master Level 7 Trainer she works with riders incorporating awareness exercises both on and off the horse. Balance the rider, balance the horse! Book a clinic that incorporates all the modalities! www.somaticrider.com As an Irwin Insights Level 6 Master Certified trainer and coach, Birgit Stutz helps riders of all levels and backgrounds advance their horsemanship skills by developing personal and situational awareness, focusing on in-depth understanding of equine behaviour, body language, psychology and biomechanics. Driven by her passion for both equine welfare and performance, Birgit believes that facilitating effective communication between horse and rider is an approach that fulfills our responsibilities to the horse and elicits great results. www.fallingstarranch.ca.

Walk, back-up, walk

Next we will test how well your horse follows your lead. Begin in the walk, then after several steps forward change your mind and step backwards. Does the horse follow your body or does he continue forward? If he continues forward turn him in a circle again, ask for a halt on your track and then back-up. Go forward one or two steps, then ask for the back-up again. Keep your body language quiet as you move from forward to backward. You may at this point use your whip lightly on the horse’s chest to help him get the idea of moving backward immediately from the walk. With DECEMBER 2021

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Babies Encourage Mentorship, Friendship, and Horsemanship

By Melody Garner-Skiba | Photos by Red Dog Imagery

Ladies love babies! Especially when those babies are horses. This year’s Rocking Heart Ranch Weanling Challenge in Fort Macleod was no different as five teams of ladies were chosen to be partners for the 2021 foal crop. Mentorship, friendship, and horsemanship were the themes of the annual event hosted by the ranch.

T

Grand Champions Laurie and Maggi with Angel Garner (in green) and Melody Garner-Skiba (on right)

Reserve Champions Hannah and Jocelyn with Angel

Runners-Up Bella and Natalie with Angel 12 • DECEMBER 2021

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he combo is simple; two weanlings and two trainers travel home together to start a journey of fun and foundation. By using this equation, Rocking Heart offers the chance for people who want to learn more about working with a young horse by partnering them with a mentor. To see people sharing their knowledge and helping encourage people to get engaged in the industry gives the ranch hope for the future of the industry.

A shining example was the team consisting of Laurie Messner and Maggi McIvor.

Laurie owns Winning Strides (in Nanton AB) and wanted to offer her clients another level of experience by adding a couple of foals to the barn. Maggi wanted to expand her knowledge, so the team worked together on their weanlings Merlot and Cosmo.

The result, AMAZING! The team ended up being the Grand Champions of the event.

Mentorship is not just for the humans, it is also helpful for the young horses to have a buddy to be partnered with during this phase of training. They can learn from each other and be calm as their buddy is right there with them.

Friendship abounds at the Challenge with many of the partners being friends already or developing friends throughout the course of the weeks leading up to the Challenge. This year we had two total strangers connect to become partners and the combo was outstanding. Tara Powell and Chera Uschenko trained Mojito and Sangria.

Unlike their weanlings, Tara and Chera met only a month before the Challenge as they were both looking for a partner. The ranch introduced them and the rest is history as these ladies worked together and gave these colts a fantastic start.

Hannah Ingram and Jocelyn Giesbrect, who had Guiness and Sambuca, were friends before the Weanling Challenge and this helped them have lots of laughs and work together to put their little colts on the path to success. Their friendship landed them the position of Reserve Champions.

It was the same with Isabelle Wiggins and Natalie Kowalenko, who wanted to spend more time together and could do so, through working with Pinot and Bellini as their project horses. This dynamic duo took home the Runner-Up spot. This was an element to the Challenge that the ranch had never truly understood until this year, the power of the friend, whether you are a horse or a person!

Horsemanship is the final element that the Challenge showcases. The Challenge asks that each pair of trainers set up the weanling for success. They must train the weanling to be led at all gaits, have their feet picked up (this is for our farriers), touch the mouth for de-worming, back-up, and load into a trailer. All the basics that these horses will need over the next couple of years as they spend time being horses out on pasture, yet are still very manageable when brought in for their regular farrier and health checks.

The trainers must be tuned into their animals and watch for the slightest amount of resistance or in some cases an injury.

Heather Gagne and Nicarra Ensor exemplified this over the course of the Challenge as they worked with Whiskey and Moonshine, two little stud colts. These two babies were the most cautious when loaded onto the trailer at the beginning of the Challenge but by the end of it, kids in Heather’s reading program were hanging out and being read to.

A big THANK YOU to our two judges, Kayla and Kara Zielke, a dynamic mother/ daughter duo who have won the Weanling Challenge in the past for several years. Every year we are amazed by what the trainers do with these babies while they respect their age and mindset. It is definitely a highlight for the ranch.

If you are interested, make sure to check out our website a www.rockingheartranchltd. com for details in 2022 on how you can become involved in this Challenge.

Earn your living Working with Horses every day!

Professional Racetrack Exercise Rider Program Program Dates: January – April 2022 January 10 - February 4, 2022: Online (instructor guided in Moodle) February 7 - March 11, 2022: Face to face at Olds College (includes chores and class time plus chores on weekends) March 14 - April 22, 2022: Face to Face at Century Mile Racetrack in Nisku (includes chores and class time, and on-track work with instructors)

For more information contact Continuing Education & Corporate Training Phone: 403.556.4740 Toll Free: 800.661.6537 coned@oldscollege.ca oldscollege.ca

Professional Racetrack Groom Program The Professional Racetrack Programs are a “Learn and Earn” concept program that will give you the confidence and skill to become a professional Horse person at Alberta Horse Racing Tracks! These unique programs have a blended approach that will allow you to study online, learn from and practice your skill with industry professional Instructors, and be placed with Alberta employers to earn a wage working in the industry.

Subsidized Tuition student pays only 20% of the program costs 100% Employment on successful completion!

Numerous career DECEMBER 2021 SADDLEUP.CA • 13 opportunities

Kindness “We are all telling ourselves stories. The question is, does your story empower you or hold you back?”

-Tony Robbins

By Elisha Bradburn | Photos by Denver Deschenes Elisha and Boone reflecting

You may be asking yourself, what does the story I am telling myself have to do with kindness and horsemanship? The story we tell ourselves can be either kind or unkind to ourselves and our horses. Allow me to clarify what I mean by “story.”

I

mean the story you tell yourself about you, your horse, what your relationship is like, what “always happens,” and what it all means. It is all so simple, and yet so complex.

Simple, as the horse really is just trying to have his needs for safety, food, comfort and play met in each moment.

Complex, because we all know how much horses pick up on our feelings, conviction and confidence which are all dictated by the story we are telling ourselves.

The simple “needs met” part of the kindness equation is a bare minimum, yet often overlooked, so let’s unpack that a bit first.

The beginning and bare minimum kindness we owe our horses is to meet their basic needs.

By needs, I mean needs according to a horse. Safety for a prey animal, such as the horse, is on top of the needs list. The horse is always evaluating whether he feels vulnerable, worried, or at ease with

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his current environment. As a part of your horse’s environment, are you aware of your effect on your horse? Do you make your horse feel confident as you are consistently trustworthy and fair? If not, sadly, you could be enough to put your horse on edge. If your horse scares you, and puts you on edge, your horse feels your anxiety and also feels fearful.

After all, if his meat-eating predator is scared, shouldn’t he be too?! Safety therefore, has to be addressed first, as if you never become at ease with each other, it is very difficult for either of you to learn in this survival state.

The next basic need is a species appropriate diet, meeting all nutritional requirements. Is he fed enough, or too much? Does he, at least most of the day, have access to forage to satisfy his natural grazing behaviour?

Is the horse in an environment where he is comfortable? Does he have a good hair coat for the weather, or is he blanketed appropriately if you blanket? Does he have shelter for when it is very windy, wet or hot?

Whether that be a treed area or a shelter of some sort.

Are his feet well-balanced and maintained by a knowledgeable farrier?

And lastly does your horse get opportunity for play? This is as important to his mental well-being as it is ours. The opportunity to socialize with other horses and move freely is so good for the horse’s mind and body.

So, given all of this, whether the horse’s basic needs are being met can be measured empirically, so it should be easy to assess whether this basic kindness is being met. With needs met, we can move on to kindness on another level. This is where things get a bit more complex (and interesting!) and bring us back to the story you tell yourself.

“He always bucks when we go on trail rides.” “He knows I am nervous, so he takes advantage and rears and bolts to get rid of me.” “My mare is cranky because she was abused in her past home.”

Kind communication between Elisha and Boone

These are all stories we tell ourselves about our horses.

The problem with stories, is they influence the complex bit of horsemanship. That is the intangible, the invisible, the feeling about us, the energy, or whatever you want to call it. When we say “this always” or “he never,” we are not making room for any other outcome. Pat Parelli puts it well when he says, "Never say never, don't always says always, usually say usually.” This all goes back to spirit and intention, which I touched on in a previous article, and is very powerful. The self-fulfilling prophecy, so to speak.

So, if we can be honest with ourselves about the story we hold onto about ourselves and our horse, and humble enough to own whether or not we are providing for our horse’s basic needs, we can see if we want to make some adjustments, perhaps write a new, kinder story.

If we approach the horse with kindness, unconditional kindness,

we have the power to change our relationship with our horse for good.

Unconditional kindness is dependant on us, not the being we are interacting with. We decide to be kind, even if we don’t get kindness in return. When we are kind, we have the self-control needed as a horseman, to make the best decisions and actions for the horse’s well-being - on the fly.

Kindness does not allow anger to decide, but reason instead. Keep in mind kindness isn’t always fluffy either. At times it can be downright firm, in an effort to protect ourselves and our horses from dangerous behaviours and outcomes. Kindness means drawing clear boundaries so we don’t make our horse feel he needs to be the leader. Not being the clear leader can put our horse in a position of feeling on edge and vulnerable, as he thinks he has to take care of himself if he is indeed the leader in his mind.

Being a good leader is being the kind of leader we would want to follow. It means pausing when necessary, and really paying attention to the feedback our horse is giving us. Kindness makes way for understanding and empathy. As Pat Parelli also says, “Your horse doesn’t care how much you know until he knows how much you care.” Consider what it might be like if everyone approached you with unconditional kindness. It really meets the deepest needs of any being.

It makes it possible to rewrite our story with our horse. By letting go of an old story that doesn’t serve us anymore, we make room for endless possibilities! We even fulfill some dreams just by starting out with limit blasting kindness!

Wishing you a Christmas full of kindness and love, from our farm to yours!

Elisha Bradburn and her husband Clay own Faithful Farm, an equestrian centre in the Fraser Valley. Elisha’s passion with horses lies in psychology based horsemanship, with a strong consideration for the horse’s point of view. Elisha is available for speaking engagements and can be followed on her Legacy Horsemanship pages on both Facebook and Instagram or e-mailed at legacyhorsemanship@shaw.ca.

(See her listing in our Business Services section under TRAINERS)

Season’s Greetings From our family to yours

office@okeqvet.com

Warm wishes to you all and your horses for a healthy, happy and safe holiday season!

DECEMBER 2021

SADDLEUP.CA • 15

In the Driver’s Seat with Elisa Marocchi

Photo by Mac Henderson Photography

Carriage driving is a unique equestrian activity. There is no other discipline where even non-horsey friends can join in on the fun in the form of a carriage ride!

Equipment intensive, it can appear confusing to a newbie, and people often think it is an expensive discipline to take part in. Some consider it something “only old folks do”!

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250-838-0111 or 1-855-737-0110, Enderby BC www.reimersfarmservice.com 16 • DECEMBER 2021

SADDLEUP.CA

ver the coming months, I’ll be presenting a series of articles describing the method I use to start horses in harness. Before starting though, I’d like to share some information about the sport of driving, dispel some misconceptions and help you decide if your own horse or pony is a suitable driving prospect.

This article will also help you determine if you have the necessary skills and determination to take on the task yourself or if you should leave the training to a professional.

First though, know that the process I follow when starting driving horses is only one of many safe and effective ways to start your horse in harness. There are a multitude of professional trainers in the driving community who are talented, skilled and competent horse people. They may have different approaches to starting horses, so keep in mind that this works for me, but others may use different methods. Remember also that the final step in the training process – the actual hitching of your horse to a cart, and subsequent initial drives – should be attempted only with the assistance of a competent and experienced driver, trainer or coach.

Any horse or pony has the potential to be a good driving horse, and anyone can learn to drive. It is an ideal sport for those people who have some sort of physical limitation that prevents them from riding. Providing variety in the work you ask of your horse can keep him fresh and interested in his job. Driving can also be a great way to keep older horses working and fit.

As for the driving world and the people who participate in it, one would be hard-pressed to find a more welcoming environment and a more positive group. Have questions as a newbie? Experienced drivers are more than happy to share their knowledge with you.

Driving doesn’t have to break the bank. A good dressage or stock saddle can easily cost $3,000-$4,000; add in a nice bridle, some saddle pads

don’t ask them to pull a very large load or work in difficult terrain, they usually do very well as driving horses.

Here are a few things you can do to see if your horse has the potential to be your new driving partner: - Pull a bucket on a rope while you walk beside your horse and bounce it along the ground (Photo 1). While he may startle initially, see if he settles down and begins to ignore it. Try having someone pull the bucket along the ground behind the horse (out of the kick zone) and watch for his reaction.

- See what your horse does when a rope or strap is placed between the hind legs (Photo 2). Again, initial concern is fine but panicking and wild kicking out may not bode well for a driving prospect.

- Lead your horse while someone pushes a wheelbarrow behind him.

Have your helper stop and drop the handles occasionally and note your horse’s reaction.

Photo 1 Photos by Joanne Macaluso Photo 2 and a girth and one can quickly be in for another $1,000. In comparison, a complete set of harness, suitable for recreational driving and lower level showing can be found for approximately $2,000 (less for ponies and minis). Decent second-hand carts can be purchased for $1,000 and up; a good quality new entry-level cart can be found for approximately $2,500.

Properly cared for, both the harness and cart can last a lifetime.

So now you know that drivers are by and large a friendly, helpful group of people, that driving doesn’t have to cost a fortune, and that pretty much any horse has the potential to drive. What now?

Although you won’t know for certain if your horse is suitable for driving until you begin working with him, there are some points to consider that will help you decide if he’ll be a good candidate: - Is your horse generally quiet? Does he stand well for saddling and mounting?

- Has he been exposed to cars, bicycles, neighbourhood dogs? What does he do when he sees these? A horse that stops in his tracks and stares is a better choice than one that spins and bolts at the sight of something frightening.

- Does he have reasonable conformation? There are no special absolute requirements for driving horses, however, they should possess good basic gaits and be strong and fit enough to pull you and your cart over whatever terrain you’ll be driving through. For those of you with minis, keep in mind that despite their small stature, they are incredibly strong. As long as you

Poor reactions to any of these triggers may not mean your horse won’t eventually be a safe and reliable driving partner, but starting with a laid back attitude certainly makes things easier. If your horse is very reactive, or unreliable with his reactions to new situations, it may be best to leave the training to a professional.

Finally, consider your own skill set and time constraints. Are you experienced working with horses on the ground? Can you walk behind your horse for extended periods of time? Are you agile enough to move quickly should a situation arise requiring you to do so? And (most important of all) do you have the time and dedication to work with your horse on a very regular basis for an extended period of time? If you don’t have the time to commit to work sessions at least several times a week, it will be safer to have a professional trainer start your driving horse.

Next month, I’ll explain the equipment you will need to have on hand (very simple and not expensive!!) and the first few steps you’ll want to tackle on the road to driving your own horse.

Safe Driving!

Elisa Marocchi is an Equestrian Canada licensed driving coach and a member of the EC Driving Committee. She owns and operates Wildwood Farm, a full service driving facility near 100 Mile House BC. An active driving coach since 2000, Elisa offers clinics and lessons in a safe, supportive and fun manner both on and off the farm. As a combined driving competitor, Elisa has successfully competed throughout North America with both her own homebred horses and those of clients.

(See her listing in our Business Services section under TRAINERS)

Kristen O’Connor Owner Chilliwack BC

Champion Horse Blankets 604-845-7179 championhorsewear@gmail.com • championhorseblankets.com DECEMBER 2021

SADDLEUP.CA • 17

The Benefits of

Neurolymphatic Massage

By Lisa Wieben

Since we are heading into colder weather and your horses may not be moving as much as they do in the summer months, here is a wonderful energy technique with many wonderful benefits that you can do with your horse while standing in the barn.

S

tart by ‘hooking up’ the energies of the spine by placing one palm over the sacrum (you may feel a dip in this area, let your palm rest over the dip; this is a powerful energetic point) and the other palm at the withers (where the withers angle toward the back). Wait for the horse to lick, chew, or yawn (while taking a few deep breaths yourself) then place one hand at the withers and the other near the poll. Again wait for the release… the horse will always tell you when the energies connect. Connecting these points will begin to relax the nervous system.

Next you will do a spinal flush. Standing beside the horse’s throat facing the rear put one hand on either side of the neck just behind the ears. Begin to make small circles with your fingers moving along the upper edge of the cervical vertebrae of the neck about an inch at a time, then from the withers down both sides of the back an inch or two off the spine, continuing all the way down to the base of the tail.

Using pressure as you massage helps to move lymph, which begins to release toxins and at the same time calms the nervous system.

(Bladder meridian which governs the nervous system runs through this area).

As you are massaging take note of any tight areas. If you repeat the process two to three times you may notice those areas releasing and becoming softer.

Finish by sweeping the energy down the body and off the feet.

Start at the poll and swipe your hand down the neck to the withers and down the front leg to the ground, then from the withers down the spine and down the outside of the hind leg. Do one side then the other. Moving slowly through this will connect the energy to your hand as well as relax the horse. Be careful with body position as you swipe down the hind leg. Keep your body near the flank, facing toward the hind end as you move down the hind leg. This will keep you in a safer area and will also allow you to feel if the horse shifts towards you.

If you would like a lovely treat for yourself, enlist a friend or partner to do a spinal flush on you. You can show them how to do it first on them, then they can return the favour. This can be done with one person either lying down on their stomach, seated, or even standing with their hands resting on a wall in front of them. The partner can begin the same way as above by hooking up the spine with one palm at the base of the spine and the other at the top of

18 • DECEMBER 2021

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Use either your finger tips or thumbs when massaging along each side of your partner’s spine. See which one they prefer. Rub in small circular motions about an inch or two away from the spine.

'Hooking up' from poll to withers, then withers to sacrum. Follow by massage along the spine of the horse either from poll to tail or withers to tail if the horse is too wiggly or curious with their head.

the spine… the palm can be placed so that the fingers are pointing toward the dip at the back of the skull (at the top of the neck) with the palm over the spine or sideways over the base of the neck. Take a few deep breaths together. Depending on the position you have chosen (lying, seated, or standing) you can either decide to massage from the top of the spine down or from the bottom up.

Again, stay an inch or two off the sides of the spine as you massage down. Play with the amount of pressure you use. You may find you can press quite hard. Make note of any particularly sore areas as you move down (or up) the spine. These are areas of congestion.

Repeat 2-3 more times and spend a little more time at the sore areas as you proceed. Notice if they begin to become less sore. Finish as above by sweeping the energy down and off the body by moving your hands from the head down the body to the feet.

Lymph serves the purpose of eliminating toxins, but can become stagnant if we are not active. Unlike blood, lymph does not have a built-in pump and relies on movement to do its job. Neurolymphatic points are found mainly on the front and back of the body. Deeply massaging the points helps to: bring energy to the body, remove toxins, clear stagnant hormonal and emotional energies from the body, balance the meridians and their organs, and help with overcoming illness as well as preventing illness.

What a wonderful, quick way to help the body, especially as we move into cold and flu season. Enjoy!

Lisa Wieben is an Essential Somatic Clinical Practitioner, an Eden Method Clinical Practitioner, a Centered Riding Instructor, Bach Flower Level 1 Practitioner, Equine Canada Competition Coach, and Irwin Insights Level 7 Coach. Her passion is developing Confident Healthy Riders. Available for online Somatics sessions, Energy Medicine sessions, and lessons. www.somaticrider.com (See her listing in our Business Services section under TRAINERS)

DECEMBER 2021

SADDLEUP.CA • 19

Lammle's Western Wear

After a long days ride, pamper and clean your horse with this Roma Easy Pack 4-piece Grooming Kit. The kit includes a sweat scraper, microfibre wash mitt, 2-sided jelly scrubber and a sponge. Also available in blue.

This Roma Ultimate 10-piece grooming kit from Weatherbeeta comes packed in a tough plastic storage box. This kit has all the utensils you need to get your horse spick and span. Grooming box has a removable tray and a strong closure. Also available in purple.

(See their ad on page 19)

Outback SaddleS & SupplieS

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Better features on our Australian Saddles designed for a Better Ride New Tack and new Saddles now in stock!

Ride Australian and eliminate back and knee pain for all day riding www.outbacksaddles.ca 250-267-1161 ~ Kamloops BC E-mail: info@outbacksaddles.ca

20 • DECEMBER 2021

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Outback Saddles & Supplies

Our Bad Dog Ranch wool felt Saddle Pads are Canadian made with American wool. Made for endurance, barrel racing, and Australian style saddles, and pictured here for Western saddles. Has a wither relief cut-out as well.

Our Leather Handbags are designed and created by Bad Dog Ranch. Made with vintage style leather for that rustic feel. Designed for multi-use, laptops, day bags and tote style. The leather will continue to get better with age, and you don’t have to be gentle either! These bags are meant for a little abuse! Its scars just make it a little more beautiful, as leather should be.

Knaughty Nets & Pets NOW IN!! Knaughty Nets & Pets Horse Blankets! 1200 Denier Black base with 300 gram poly fill and 8 colours of webbing to keep your horse warm this winter. Not only can you keep your horses warm, you can match your livestock or pets with our smaller winter blankets version. Available in a 1200 denier Rain sheet as well.

Knaughty Nets & Pets still makes great quality hay nets in all sizes from our Hen Peckers and Trailer nets, to our Large Wide and Feeder Nets. We have a net for you in 1”, 1.5”, 2” Heavy Duty and 1.5” Regular Mesh.

• Small Mesh Slow Feed Hay Nets • Pet Accessories • Winter Blankets & Rain Sheets for ALL SIZES

Everything Pets

Diamond H Tack

From bugs to bones and everything in between…

Everything Pets has your ‘Pets-Mas’ shopping list covered!

Christmas toys, bakery treats and stockings are available and ready to be hung with care! Small animal, bird, fish, reptile and farm supplies are also in stock. Stop in to see us today; we would love to see you!

We’re OPEN and HAVE SURVIVED WITH YOUR SUPPORT! Thanks for your patience and understanding this past year! We are fully stocked with horsey giftware for CHRISTMAS: Painted Ponies, Breyer’s, Games, Books, Ornaments, Mugs, Jewelry, Slippers and so much more. Outfit your horse with the most durable blankets. Huge variety of Western and English saddles and tack. Treats, feeds and supplements. Check out the latest in high-tech riding fashions. Find quality leashes, dog collars or warm coats for your canine friends. Complete onsite custom repair shop to provide your one-stop-shop, with knowledgeable and friendly staff! More on our website at diamondhtack.ca

DECEMBER 2021

SADDLEUP.CA • 21

Ridgerider

Centurion Supply

A western store… and so much more! We offer the largest selection of Moccasins and Mukluks on Vancouver Island!

We also carry Canadian made Boulet Boots – over 170 styles available. We undersell the internet on ALL Boulet Boots!

How about a pair under your Christmas tree this year?

So many great gift ideas from Centurion Supply. AWST International giftware has ideas for every horse lover in your life! Scarves, ponchos, hats and more! Many different styles! Fun and funky jewelry make great gifts for young riders. “Lead Safe” silver-plated necklaces and earrings come boxed in velour Cowboy Hat & Horse Head display boxes.

Wide variety of leather bracelets, vegan “leather” bracelets and rings… something for everyone on your list! For a full selection of AWST products, and to find a dealer near you, visit www. centurionsupply.ca today!

(See their ad on page 23)

250-286-3554

Best Selection on the Island for BOOTS BELTS & BUCKLES MOCCASINS & MUKLUKS Variety of colours available

22 • DECEMBER 2021

SADDLEUP.CA

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DECEMBER 2021

SADDLEUP.CA • 23

TOP DOG!

A DIVISION OF CENTURION SUPPLY

10 THINGS YOUR DOG WOULD TELL YOU... (courtesy of Forrest Surber on Facebook) 1. My life is likely to last 10 to 15 years. Any separation from you will be painful: remember that before you get me.

2. Give me time to understand what you want of me.

3. Place your trust in me - it is crucial to my wellbeing.

4. Do not be angry at me for long, and do not lock me up as punishment.

5. You have your work, your entertainment, and your friends. I only have you.

6. Talk to me sometimes. Even if I don’t understand your words, I understand your voice when it is speaking to me.

7. Be aware that however you treat me, I will never forget.

8. Remember before you hit me that I have teeth that could easily hurt you, but I choose not to bite you because I love you.

9. Before you scold me for being uncooperative, obstinate, or lazy, ask yourself if something might be bothering me. Perhaps I might not be getting the right food, or I have been out too long, or my heart is getting too old and weak.

10. Take care of me when I get old; you too will grow old. Go with me on difficult journeys. Never say: “I cannot bear to watch” or “Let it happen in my absence.”

Everything is easier for me if you are there, even my death.

“I found this and thought I would share to remind us all to treasure the humans and dogs in our life.”

– Forrest Surber

Supplying Your Pets with NEW and Unique Products! https://finnandfletcher.com

Happy-Go-Doodle’s Twas the Night Before Christmas ~ Inspired by one very happy Goldendoodle dog named Chloe and written by her sidekick, Jenise Carl www.happygodoodle.com Twas the night before Christmas, and out on the ground, Lies a blanket of snow, exciting the Hound!

The fetch balls were tucked in the stocking with care, But Chloe’s smart snoot would not leave them there!

“A red ball, a blue ball, a tennis ball or two!

I found them, I found them! I found them for you!”

She filled up her mouth and ran down the hall; No waiting! Snow’s waiting! It’s time to play ball!

Outside (in my slippers) I heaved that small sphere, And swirling and twirling it did disappear.

I was sure that we’d lost it, so deep in the snow, But that snowdrift was perfect for Chloe, you know!

She was dressed all in fur, from her head to her foot, And her paws were all covered with snowflakes and dirt.

A slobbery ball she’d returned in her mouth; She’d worked hard to find it, she’d “drop it” herself!

Her eyes—how they sparkled! Her face was so merry!

Her curls were wet spirals. Her snoot? A brown berry!

That muppet-like face pointed skyward just so, That the beard on her chin would glisten with snow.

Her favorite new ball she kept tight in her jaws, And she circled around me on mischiefy paws!

She had a red tail and a furry round face, That bounced when she played, with not too much grace!

She did not waste time, but played fetch oh-so-hard, That she zoomied and zoomied and tore up the yard!

Till finally worn out and covered in snow, She nuzzled beside me…there’s snow place like home.

With one last ball bounce, then we shared a high paw, “This dood’s got my heartstrings.” I said with an “awwww.”

Then Chloe exclaimed with a “WOOF” and delight, “Happy Christmas to all! May it be furry and bright!”

24 • DECEMBER 2021

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TOP DOG!

A DIVISION OF CENTURION SUPPLY

Supplying Your Pets with NEW and Unique Products! https://finnandfletcher.com

Pet Central EVERYTHING PETS (Princeton BC) 250-295-7381 Quality Foods & Supplies for all your Pets! See us on Facebook. 10/22

Do you offer a dog service or training business?

Sell pet feeds and supplies?

You can advertise here! Prices start at only $250 per year (12 issues).

Call 1-866-546-9922 or e-mail nancyroman@saddleup.ca

Canine Capers SPONSORED BY Your one-stoP Pet shoP Farm, Fencing & Horse Supplies Pet and Livestock Feeds 604-894-6740 Pemberton BC

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For more information on any of these events go to www.canuckdogs.com unless another website is provided

DUE TO THE CORONA VIRUS, EVENTS MAY BE CANCELLED - CALL AHEAD

TOP DOG! OF THE MONTH Coco is a 12-year-old Australian Shepherd.

His favourite pastime is playing fetch and going for walk/runs with his family. There's no stopping him; he's always ready to go and it's always with a smile.  Miranda H., Vernon BC

DECEMBER

4-5 11

AGILITY GAMES TRIAL, Pitt Meadows BC CANINE GOOD NEIGHBOUR TEST, Coquitlam BC

2022 HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

JANUARY 1-2 7-9 8 21-23 29-30

NADAC AGILITY TRIAL, Cochrane AB CKC AGILITY TRIALS, Balzac AB AAC AGILITY FUN MATCH, Abbotsford BC AAC AGILITY TRIAL, Abbotsford BC CKC SCENT DETECTION TRIALS, Calgary AB

FEBRUARY

19-20

Send us a photo of your favourite pooch!

Tell us the dog’s name, breed, and up to 50 words about him/her. We will print your first name (or initials) and your city/province.

E-mail to nancyroman@saddleup.ca and put in subject line: TOP DOG OF THE MONTH. Photos will be printed on a first come first serve basis.

NAFA TOURNAMENT, Chilliwack BC, Lynda 604-308-2195, www.flyball.org

Do you have a WORKING DOG event coming up?

Let us know! Call 1-866-546-9922 or email nancyroman@saddleup.ca DECEMBER 2021

SADDLEUP.CA • 25

u o Y e r A at Kids... Wh Your Horse? th Doing Wuri turn to tell us It 's y o out YO U ! ab

Pai nt Jade with her "true love" Rye, a 6-year-old Nan (with one blue eye). She gets upset when rides "her horse."

- Jade, age 3 1/2, Red Deer AB

GI DD am 4 My nam e is Lin dsey and I Y years old. This is my 9-year-old Welsh ridi ng pony “Po ppy,” and we love our P U lessons with Miss Tracy.

- Lin dsey, age 4, Monte Lake BC

nd an d I at Isla as ” r e t s e “J e s w My h o r als! Th is year g in F g in c a R l e in ac Ba rr a s o n ba r r e l r e e s ll u f t s ir f th our love it, even in team an d h t o b e w d n a t W e’re a g rea po u ring rain ! rel racing we also love ar aside fro m b n d Cow boy Challeng es . a po le ben d ing 7, Coo m bs BC e - Th o m as , ag

It's all about the kids! This Could Be You! Send in ONE photo with a caption (no more than 40 words). Include your first name, age, city/province. Photos will be printed on a space availability basis.

Email to nancyroman@saddleup.ca with the subject line “KIDS”

26 • DECEMBER 2021

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Horse Council BC - Notes from the Office HCBC’S PROVINCIAL COMPETITION SYSTEM

A

s the somewhat shortened 2021 show season comes to an end we can start looking forward to what hopefully will be a successful, booming 2022. What better time than now to refresh everyone on just what the Horse Council BC Provincial Competition system is and how it can support your competition.

Did you know…

Horse Council BC is one of the only provincial sport organizations to have their own competition system that includes multi-discipline rules, competition sanctioning, official’s development and carding.

The HCBC Competition system delivers multi-discipline entry level, grass roots competition opportunities. These competitions are an integral piece of building Equestrian Sport in BC. By providing our equestrian athletes with an affordable, fun, safe environment on a level playing field, we will continue positive growth within our multidisciplined sport.

Horse Council BC provincially sanctioned horse shows are able to run under the guidance of the HCBC multi-discipline Rule Book. This affords Competition Organizers the tools and support they need to operate within the recognized sport framework, follow current safety rules and guidelines and be aware of risk management that is necessary and of the utmost importance for hosting a well-planned, successful competition.

BC’s own Competition system also allows competitions access to qualified, trained and certified Officials.

The Horse Council BC Official’s Certification Program provides a pool of educated officials in the following disciplines: * Dressage (basic) Judge * Driving: Pleasure and Combined Judge * General Performance Judge * Hunter Judge * Jumper Judge * Hunter/Jumper Course Designer * Vaulting Judge HCBC Provincial Officials are independent contractors and may officiate at sanctioned or unsanctioned competitions and may hold multiple cards with other equestrian organizations without restriction.

A Guest Card is available for Officials who may have let their status lapse or are from out of province but is able to provide good references and suitable qualifications. Officials who work under a Guest Card may do so three times at which time they will be asked to reinstate or become recorded if they wish to continue working Provincial Competitions.

A question we often get asked is, can a Nationally certified official

work at a Provincially sanctioned competition? The answer is YES, these are two distinct and separate designations, each with their own set of qualifying criteria and selection process.

The HCBC Official’s Development Program includes recognition of certification from other national and breed association sanction bodies.

An official can be granted provincial status based on their current qualifications and carding from other organizations. It is an easy process and allows officials to help build the grass roots, entry level competition and encourage best practice. There is also an application process for those who are interested in officiating but are not currently recognized.

Contact competition@hcbc.ca for more information.

2021 HCBC AWARDS NOMINATIONS Nominations are open for the following categories: - Coach of the Year - Bob James Volunteer of the Year - Sherman Olson Lifetime Achievement Award Horse Council BC’s annual awards serve to honour outstanding achievement within BC’s equestrian community. These awards acknowledge those who have stood out from the crowd over the past year and who have made a positive impact on the community as a whole. Each award recipient was nominated by two or more other Horse Council BC members. Nomination deadline is December 30th 2021.

Nomination forms and more information can be found at hcbc.ca > about > HCBC Awards

Get a jump on 2022! Renew your 2022 HCBC Membership before December 31, 2021 to ensure continuous coverage!

The easiest way to renew is online. Go to http://hcbc.online Select your 2022 membership, pay using a Visa, MasterCard or Visa Debit.

Or…. mail your 2022 renewal with a cheque, money order or bank draft to: HCBC

27736 Fraser Highway

Aldergrove, BC V4W 3N5

Thank you for your continued support.

Horse Council BC • How to Reach Us Office hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. • Address: 27336 Fraser Highway, Aldergrove, BC V4W 3N5 604-856-4304 or Toll Free 1-800-345-8055 • Fax: 604-856-4302 • www.hcbc.ca

DECEMBER 2021

SADDLEUP.CA • 27

Tennessee Walking Horse News By Windi Scott

T

he Canadian Registry of the Tennessee Walking Horse will celebrate its 40th ANNIVERSARY this year… with a great lineup of events, programs and goals!

We are so excited to announce that there will be a fun UNSHOW at Thorsby, Alberta this coming summer on August 5, 6 & 7, 2022. This event will feature a full lineup of ‘classes’ designed for participants to enjoy in an atmosphere of fun and learning with IJA Judge Diane Sept officiating. There will be demonstrations, craft and product tables, a stallion auction, entertainment and a Saturday night social.

There will also be opportunities for ‘virtual’ participation for those living too far away to attend. Keep posted on this one!

CRTWH will be unveiling their new YOUTH PROGRAM in conjunction with the 40th.

A new registration application that includes up-to-date and wider colour choices is coming soon. Members of the registry board are working on exciting projects including a new video on gaits, a new online photo-reference resource for past and present Canadian registered horses, and an updated Directors’ Manual.

Come join the party! See https://crtwh.ca

Santa and his ‘reindeer’ Trigger (aka Uphill Dusty Gold) “Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas” from CRTWH

Equestrian Canada Equestre, www.equestrian.ca Photos: Amanda Ubell Photography

Duke and Ilana Flawless in the 2021 U25 National Championships

O

n October 30, Alberta’s own Halle Duke was crowned Equestrian Canada’s (EC) National U25 Champion. The record setting $40,000 National Finals event consisted of three competitions, and the duo of Duke and her own Canadian Warmblood mare Ilana (Kvf Tacorde x Contender) finished at the top of the podium with the gold medal draped around her neck along with the title of Canada’s National U25 Champion.

EC’s U25 Championship was contested over three days, beginning with Wednesday’s $5,000 MarBill Hill Table C competition, followed

by Thursday’s $10,000 Devoucoux Saddles Jump off competition, and concluded with Saturday’s $25,000 Rocky Mountain Show Jumping Cup.

Athletes carried their scores from Wednesday’s Table C competition into the next two phases of the Championship, where the first round scores were added to the Table C scores to determine the ultimate winner.

The Table C phase proved to be the ticket to victory for young Duke, who zipped around the track in 59.18 seconds winning the event and giving her the lead with a score of zero faults. Combined with a clear round and the win in Phase 2, she carried that score of zero into the final phase of the Championship.

“I really appreciate that Royal West was given the chance to host the National Finals. I’m not sure we would have been able to make the trip east this year. It was my horse’s first indoor competition, and I wasn’t sure how she’d respond, but of course was really happy with her performance,” said Duke. The native of Spruce Grove AB, added “we show at many RMSJ horse shows throughout the year but Royal West is on a level of its own, and is really a special event.”

Alberta’s Claire Doty and Stella Chernoff recorded scores of 5.71 and 5.02 respectively, had to post clear rounds for a chance at gold.

Unfortunately, the two talented riders didn’t keep pace with Duke in

28 • DECEMBER 2021

SADDLEUP.CA

Duke and Ilana clearing a jump during the U25 National Championships

Top three finishers from U25 National Championships, Halle Duke, Claire Doty and Stella Chernoff on the podium.

Saturday’s competition with both athletes faulting in the first round. Doty finished with the silver medal and Chernoff won the bronze.

When the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair was cancelled earlier this year, Royal Mountain Show Jumping (RMSJ) was awarded the national show jumping and equitation championships. “We are extremely delighted that RMSJ agreed to host the 2021 National Championships for Jumper and Equitation at Royal West in Calgary,” said EC’s CEO Meg Krueger. “We understand the significant planning and effort it takes to host such an event and appreciate the work of John Anderson and his team to make it happen. We’re looking forward to seeing all the athletes compete in the second week.”

Seasons Greetings from the Armstrong Enderby Riding Club By Lauri Meyers

O

ur annual AGM was held on November 3 at the Glad Tidings Church in Armstrong, as well as Virtual via Facetime and Phone. We are proud to announce the 2022 Board of Directors.

President – Em Stobbe Vice President – Lauri Meyers Secretary/Director – Chelsey Richards Treasurer – Meighan Rees-Miller Executive Director – Donna Holland 1 year Director – Alissa Korberg 1 year Director – Patti Thomas 2 year Director – Vienna Meyers

Best wishes to our outgoing Executives and Directors, Alana Vos-Lindsay, Anne-Marie Gellein and Carmen Letawski-Dyck. We will see you again in the Show Arena in Spring 2022.

We would like to thank our members for their continued support and understanding

in these extraordinary times. While we do not have a year-end Awards Banquet, the Board of Directors agree that all our members and participants are winners. Thank you.

Our meetings for 2022 will be starting February 2, first Wednesday of the month.

Keep an eye on our webpage and Facebook for locations and times. These meetings are open to everyone, but with current protocols, we do offer Virtual as well.

2022 Memberships are now available on our website, armstrongenderbyridingclub.ca, and we accept e-transfer for payment.

It’s never too early, or too late, to become a Sponsor for the Armstrong Enderby Riding Club. Sponsorship gets you – a linked logo on our website, logo on our show bills, Facebook and acknowledgment at our shows. You can contact us on Facebook or at AERCcanada@ gmail.com, for more information on Sponsorship opportunities.

Our new President Em Stobbe

Executive deep in thought!

Canadian Cowboy Challenge Update By Hans Kollewyn | Photos by Charlie McNamara

T

he CCC has had some challenges in hosting our events for the 2021 season. But the CCC has been able to host a near full Challenge season which resulted in enough Challenges to be able to tabulate year-end awards. A year-end awards banquet was initially proposed for the end of October in Camrose, Alberta but due to Covid-19 complications, the banquet was moved to November 13 to the Western Development Museum in North Battleford SK.

The evening was a great success with everyone enjoying an end of season gathering. An excellent way to end a great Challenge season. The banquet had over 25 members attending. The CCC would like to thank our buckle sponsors for their support: RTU Power and Controls Ltd., Optimised Installations and Kollewyn Consulting Ltd.

We would also like to recognize Challenge sponsors throughout the year. In Alberta, Yknott Challenge had support from: Tsunumi Equine, Ertmans Saddle Shop, Water Lily Boutique, Town of Onoway, The Brass Cactus, The Estates Bakery, Harmony in Motion Equine Therapy and Kim Hilyard of Black Pine Ranch. The Rosebriar Ranch had support from: Buxton Performance Horses, Out Back Veterinary Centre, UFA Farm Supply and Ranch Store in Westlock, Mel’s North 40 Performance and Marilyn Labrecque. Saskatchewan Challenges had support from: Cut Dirt Equine Therapy, Smart Earth Camelina Oil, Greenhawk Cowtown and Kim’s Pet Grooming. Thank you all for your loyal support throughout the year.

The CCC board would like to thank all the members and sponsors for their ongoing support throughout this challenging year. It was a fun year and everyone seemed to adjust to the requirements which were in place. We made it through the year and our equine friends benefited from the experience without noticing that we humans were under Covid-19 restrictions.

Merry Christmas to All and have a Happy New Year. Cheers to all and looking forward to a great 2022 Challenge show season with family and friends.

Shooten Sprouts - over poles

Youth Division - opening a rope gate

Shooten Sprouts group walk through

In each division, Championship winners were awarded buckles while Reserve Champions were awarded jackets. The recipients are: Shooten Sprouts: Hailey Reddekopp riding Beau with Reserve - Violet Ranson riding Scooter Youth: Leah Vielhauer riding Sandy with Reserve - Laikyn Thomas riding Dusty Novice: Judy Hill riding ITCHY with Reserve - Tricia Melanson riding Chance Bucking Crazies: Janet Goltz riding Peanut Rookie: Eric Frogley riding Archie with Reserve - Melissa Deveau riding Ally Older Than Dirt: Leanne Buxton riding Badger with Reserve - Greg Puranich riding Sonny NonPro: Shane Goltz riding Jazzy with Reserve - Murray Buxton riding Sonita Open: Shane Goltz riding Jazzy with Reserve - Murray Buxton riding Sonita Horsemanship award was won by Janet Goltz riding Peanut in the Bucking Crazies

DECEMBER 2021

SADDLEUP.CA • 29

Peachland Riding Club Update By Tera-Lee

O

n October 16-17 we held our final two Buckle Series Barrel Races as well as our last two Gymkhanas of the season! Thank you so much to all who attended our races this year! Our volunteers are important of course, but so are our competitors. Without entries there are no races!

We had a Champion Buckle and a Reserve Champion prize for each D at the end of our 8 race series. There was a small fee at the beginning of the series to sign up, and then each race the competitors earned points in the D they placed in. The more consistent you placed over the series, the better!

Congratulations to all of our award winners!

1D 1st Nevada Dynneson and Justa Cadillac Queen (Savannah) 2nd Angela Milroy and Draw Mia Firewater (Sweets) 2D 1st Kyli Haugland and Time To Be Swift (Dazzle) 2nd Brooke McGee and Charity

3D 1st Amanda Capuano and Dusty 2nd Candace Chevallier and Blue Tequila Lena 4D 1st Kyli Haugland and CW Kings Nakid Gem (Nakid) 2nd Sandy Lewis and Wiley

Angela Milroy, Candace Chevallier, Sandy Lewis, Amanda Capuano, Kyli Haugland, Nevada Dynneson, Brooke McGee and then President Kevin Froese and Buckle Series Director Calista Collins.

Vintage Riders Equestrian Club… for the love of horses! By Simonne Rempel

T

is’ the season to be jolly and that we are. We have been busy planning for our annual Christmas Party. Last year it was held online with a gift exchange using Elfster. We will do this again!

Ho Ho Ho

In October, we had an informative and well-attended lecture with Kamla Hoekstra. We focused on physiotherapy aspects and how the rider’s posture affects the horse and rider. The lecture was followed by private lessons the next day.

The Halloween Group Ride was another success with six members riding. I think they spooked all the ghosts and goblins out of Campbell Valley Park. It was a beautiful day and their costumes were great.

Our October general meeting was held outside with speaker Cheri Craig. Cheri has discovered the many health benefits of pulsed electromagnetic field therapy (PEMF). Magnetic therapy is to aid in the healing and the well-being of horses based on our natural magnetic fields.

The November AGM was held in Fort Langley on November 16th.

Thank you to our past executives, you made a great team.

With the holiday season upon us, we are looking forward to spending time with our families and friends. May your Christmas be merry and bright.

Find us on Facebook at Vintage Riders Equestrian Club – public, email: vintageriders@shaw.ca

Vintage Riders Equestrian Club… for the love of horses! We are a gathering of horse enthusiasts within the Fraser Valley. Anyone over the age of 21 is welcome. We meet every 3rd Tuesday with a speaker and host a variety of clinics according to PHO.

Halloween Ride

2021 Upcoming Events: General Meetings Theme Trail Rides Christmas Party

Kamla Hoekstra Clinic 30 • DECEMBER 2021

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Lower Mainland Quarter Horse Association By Marilyn Griffin

2

021 has been a successful year for the club, with our virtual show and Summer Icebreaker collaboration with BC Paint Horse Club.

Plans are in the works for 2022, but in order to make those plans happen, we need your support in our upcoming fundraisers.

Christmas Basket Auction Dates: DONATIONS accepted from November 15 to December 1.

Auction starts Friday December 3, 2021 at 4pm and ends Sunday December 5, 2021 at 7pm.

Please contact Marilyn Griffin marilyngriffin2@gmail.com to make a donation to the auction. If you have a business that would like to donate and require a letter from LMQHA requesting a donation Marilyn will provide that to you. Last year’s Christmas Basket Auction was a huge success and lots of fun. The funds raised in last year’s auction went a long way toward making the Summer Icebreaker happen. While Christmas Baskets remain the theme, Gift Certificates or other items such as saddle pads, saddle blankets, or other miscellaneous items are all welcome and greatly appreciated.

Stallion Auction Dates: Wednesday January 26, 2022 to Sunday January 30, 2022 at 7pm PST. Last year we had an amazing list of Quarter Horse and Paint Stallions in the auction. If you are planning on breeding your Mare in 2022 make sure you take a look at the Stallions in our Stallion Auction.

If you are the winning bid, your resulting foal will receive a free entry to the yearling Futurity in 2024 with payouts ranging from $1,500 - $2,800.

So not only do you get a breeding to an amazing stallion you have the possibility of winning your stud fee back plus some. Even if you are not the winning bid, breeding to one of these amazing stallions will provide you with the opportunity of entering the 2024 Futurity with your resulting foal (entry fee required). Only the offspring of the Stallions in the 2022 Stallion Auction may enter the Futurity. This is a great program!

We have included pictures of five of the Stallions who will be donating a breeding to the Stallion Auction. Irwinvitation, Kissin the Girls, The Huntsman, Obviously I’m McDreamy and Spooks Hired Gun… this list of quality stallions is growing daily. Rules and regulations can be found on our Facebook page “LMQHA Breeders Incentive Program” h t t p s : // w w w. f a c e b o o k . c o m / L M Q H A - B r e e d e r s - I n c e n t i v e Program-1617950788427546/ Below is a list of our officers who can be contacted through Facebook messenger if you have any questions or suggestions for us.

President: Tamara Jameson Vice-President: Tami Hutton Treasurer: Pia Petersen Secretary: Marilyn Griffin

Kissin The Girls

The Huntsman

Obviously I’m McDreamy

Spooks Hired Gun

Lower Mainland Quarter Horse Association President: Tamara Jameson, tamarajameson@hotmail.com Website: http://bcqha.com/index.php/lmqha Visit our Facebook page

DECEMBER 2021

SADDLEUP.CA • 31

The Back Country Horsemen of BC Kane Valley Equestrian Camp Adventures Yarrow chapter members combine work with play  By Marny Zischka and Rose Schroeder, Yarrow Chapter

S

ummer 2021 was not a ‘normal’ riding season. First there were the COVID restrictions, and then intense heat and wildfires.

But the Yarrow chapter managed to pull off a Chapter Ride July 16-18 at the new Kane Valley Equestrian Camp. This camp was built in 2020 and is located about 20 minutes south of Merritt. As well as the group rides, a small work bee to install some signage was planned.

We are pretty sure that Rose Schroeder had something to do with that!

The Yarrow chickies and Pete (Marny’s husband) arrived and set up camp. We got the group site that has room for three rigs and has six corrals. In true horse camp fashion, Pete and Marny pitched their tent on the soft grass under the whispering Aspens right next to the corrals. (Which is also right next to a manure containment bin.) The blocks of the manure bin made for a great place to set up the camp kitchen... but we ate at the picnic tables. Horse folks are flexible!

After camp set up on Friday afternoon, there was time before the supper hour to do a ride on the north trails (Harmon to Ravens Ridge to Menzies and back). We stopped for a snack in the shade at Menzies Lake. The view across the lake is very pretty, with a ranch homestead for a backdrop. We relaxed back at camp with a cool one. Rose had set some wildflowers on the table which is a Yarrow tradition started by a long-time member Dianne Karr.

Saturday was the adventure day. Marny got to ride her dad’s (Hank McEwen) mule – Samule. A planned two-hour jaunt turned into an intense three-hour ride. The trails west of camp are not marked so we tried to find our way by dead reckoning, using the sun, topography, fence lines and landmarks as our guides. But just to be safe, we were plotting our route on the Avenza app as a backup. We ended up at the viewpoint right where we planned to be... just on the wrong side of the fence. No problem, the gate was just down a very steep hill. (Range cows must be part mountain goat.)

Back at camp, more members of our group had arrived. They were, of course, keen to get riding. Some of those who headed out again for a ride that had a few ‘Man from Snowy River’ moments.

Marny’s FitBit tallied 7 hours in the saddle, 17 miles and 43,000 steps!

Somewhere in between, Pete and Mikayla helped Rose set a post for the Aspen Trail sign. We ended the day with a fun new card game that played with our minds and provided a whole lot of laughs. Best part: all under clear skies and a cool breeze with no smoke nor bugs to complain about.

Sunday was a short day as everyone had to head home. The group, including Pete riding Samule this day, set out for the Hills Homestead and hilltop lookout. Marny was quite sore (a month of heat and no riding had softened those riding muscles and calluses) so she headed out for some kayaking with her dog Junior. Rose went to work to put up more signs. Scott Walker (past BCHBC President)

was there to help with the signs and brush out the Aspen Trail over the hill. (Thank you, Scott.) It was soon time to pack up our horses and head home with fond memories.

Thank you BCHBC for such a perfect equestrian camp destination. And if you qualify, don’t’ forget to ask for the Seniors discount!

Menzies Lake

Returning from the watering hole

There are all kinds of trails

Aspen Trail back to camp

Back Country Horsemen of BC – serving BC trail riding enthusiasts since 1989!

Check out our beautiful website at https://bchorsemen.org / Questions? Contact info@bchorsemen.org

32 • DECEMBER 2021

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What’s Happening? Let’s Go!

2022 Events?

LET US KNOW – THIS IS A FREE SERVICE FOR NON-PROFIT EVENTS. REQUIRED FORMAT FOR EACH DATE:

Jan 1-3 OPEN HORSE SHOW, Smith Arena, Smithsville, BC, John 604-123-4567

johnsmith@smith.net, www.smithshow.com

DUE TO THE CORONA VIRUS CALL AHEAD TO SEE IF THE EVENT IS STILL HAPPENING. BE SAFE EVERYONE!

NOVEMBER

29-Dec 10 HORSE DEVELOPMENT w/Glenn Stewart, The Horse Ranch, Baldonnel BC,

250-789-3072, sandy@thehorseranch.com

DECEMBER

13-24(tbc) HORSE DEVELOPMENT w/Glenn Stewart, The Horse Ranch, Baldonnel BC,

250-789-3072, sandy@thehorseranch.com 27-31 BOXING WEEK SALE, Diamond H Tack, Kelowna BC, www.diamondhtack.ca

2022 HAPPY NEW YEAR JANUARY

19-29

We’re going to give you more time to figure this one out.

This item stands 12” high and 16” wide Weighs about 7 lbs.

Congratulations (so far) to: Lynda & Harry Norris, Spallumcheen BC Rod Parkinson, Falkland BC From the October issue It was a meat grinder! (too easy) Had lots more correct guesses…

Marie Graham, Coldstream BC Lori App, Mystery BC Beverley Fraine, NorthVancouver BC Kevin Toews, Bowen Island BC Brenda Gordon, Williams Lake BC Penny Bearss, Coldstream BC Shirley Dudla, Onoway AB Debra Ralston, Port Alberni BC Vicky Winder, Sylvan Lake AB Rosemary Parkin, Mystery BC Barb Barber, Delta BC Jim McKay, Lacombe AB

COSTA RICA LEARNING (HOLIDAY) ADVENTURE w/Glenn Stewart, jorge@sabanerohorseventures.com, www.thehorseranch.com

APRIL

15-17 HORSE EXPO CANADA, Westerner Park, Red Deer AB, 403-629-0434 or

1-833-425-1799, exhibitors@horseexpo.ca 22-23 STAGE 1 HORSEMANSHIP CLINIC w/Glenn Stewart, Mission Acres Arena,

Cochrane AB, 250-789-3072, sandy@thehorseranch.com 22-24 CAN-AM EQUINE EXPO, Heritage Park, Chilliwack BC, www.canamequineexpo.com 24-25 STAGE 2+ HORSEMANSHIP WORKSHOP w/Glenn Stewart,

Mission Acres Arena, Cochrane AB, 250-789-3072, sandy@thehorseranch.com

MAY

13-15

HORSEMANSHIP CLINIC w/Dustin Drader, Grassland Grazers Ranch, Beaverdell BC, www.elcentroequine.com

3-26

3-6

8-11

10-12

HORSEMANSHIP FOUNDATION COURSE (4 parts) w/Glenn Stewart, The Horse Ranch, Baldonnel BC, 250-789-3072, sandy@thehorseranch.com STAGE 1 HORSEMANSHIP CLINIC w/Glenn Stewart, The Horse Ranch, Baldonnel BC, 250-789-3072, sandy@thehorseranch.com STAGE 1+ & 2 HORSEMANSHIP CLINIC w/Glenn Stewart, The Horse Ranch, Baldonnel BC, 250-789-3072, sandy@thehorseranch.com HORSEMANSHIP CLINIC w/Dustin Drader, Grassland Grazers Ranch, Beaverdell BC, www.elcentroequine.com

JUNE

Do you have your 2022 dates booked yet?

Send them in (required format only, as above) – our readers want to know!

Remember, we can only fit so many in the magazine, but we print them ALL on our website!

Stands 10” high x 12” long. Weighs 2.5 lbs. Vertical lever adjusts to accommodate different size items on the right, at the end of the bolt.

Good luck!

READERS – What’s your guess?

Discuss this item with your friends and send your guess to usedandunique2018@gmail.com

Do include your city and province please.

Saddle Up will print names (and location) of those with the correct answer in a future issue.

GOOD LUCK! If you or your company would like to sponsor this monthly brain teaser, do call 1-866-546-9922 or email nancyroman@ saddleup.ca for details.

DECEMBER 2021

SADDLEUP.CA • 33

Clubs & Associations Join the Canadian Quarter Horse Association Membership is FREE!

31 Years of Celebrating Long Ears www.AlbertaDonkeyandMule.ca

members from across Canada and the US

ARMSTRONG ENDERBY RIDING CLUB Schooling Shows (Eng/West/Games), Armstrong Fairgrounds, April to Sept. www.armstrongenderbyridingclub.ca 10/22

12/21

5/22

The CQHA is the Canadian affiliate of the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA), and representative of the largest breed population within the Canadian herd. Visit us at www.cqha.ca.

NOW YOU DO HAVE A CHOICE. CRHRA is a voice for the Recreational Rider.

Our low cost membership includes $5 Million and $30,000 Accidental Death and Dismemberment.

Check out our web site for more information www.crhra.ca 4/22

11/22

BC CARRIAGE DRIVING SOCIETY, Pres: Ellen Hockley 250-572-7516, Pleasure, Combined, Recreation from Minis to Drafts, www.bccarriagedriving.com 6/22

BC Equine Arena 2 Trail Association

Working with obstacles to overcome obstacles Building confidence, patience, respect and trust in your equine partnership! bcearena2trail.com facebook.com/BCEA2T 4/22

2/22

CANADIAN THERAPEUTIC RIDING ASSOCIATION CanTRA promotes the benefits of therapeutic riding across Canada through awareness, education, and setting standards for therapeutic riding instructor certification, centre accreditation, hippotherapy, and equine-facilitated wellness.

Contact: ctra@golden.net • Website: www.cantra.ca

BC INTERIOR ARABIAN HORSE ASSOC. Pres: Wally Goertz 250-546-6004 11/22 asmarawg@telus.net, clinics, Recreational riding programs, Awards/Social Activ.

BC INTERIOR MORGAN HORSE CLUB see our FB page. Pres: Michelle Kozyn e-mail: akylles3_kozyn@hotmail.com, Trail Rides, Pot O Gold Show, Poker Ride 5/22 BC PAINT HORSE CLUB www.bcphc.com, Open Show & Competition Program, award sponsorships for local clubs, youth scholarship. cathyglover@telus.net 3/22

FRASER VALLEY’S OWN ‘GRASSROOTS’ CLUB dedicated to promoting the sport of cutting to enthusiasts of all levels See us on acebook & Instagram

www.bcrcha.com

CHILLIWACK RIDING CLUB, Drill Team, Horse Shows (Heritage Qualifiers), Gymkhana, Trail Rides, Clinics, Open Ride, Socials, www.crchorse.ca 12 /21 Equestrian Canada (EC) is the national governing body for equestrian sport and industry in Canada, with a mandate to represent, promote and advance all equine and equestrian interests.

1-866-282-8395 | inquiries@equestrian.ca | www.equestrian.ca

BC QUARTER HORSE ASSOCIATION, www.bcqha.com Contact Carolyn Farris, email cfarris@telus.net 8/22

6/22

7/22

10/18 2/22

Want to enjoy miles of beautiful new trails with your equine partner in BC? Try Endurance Riding!

We welcome all levels of riders and all breeds of equines.

Info on clinics and events at www.erabc.com

11/21 6/16

or e-mail: bcrcha@gmail.com

Team Cattle Penning is a race against the clock to have 3 riders pen 3 of 30 numbered head of cattle. Each rider is rated to their current abilities and the three riders on a team make up the maximum allowed number for the division they are riding. Example: a 10 Class is made of a 4-rated rider and two 3-rated riders. The herd is on one end of the arena and the foul line is usually 1/3. DON’T BLOW OUT!! YEE HAW!! www.bctcpa.net

3/22 11/18

A charitable equine organization funding veterinary colleges and students, and other worthwhile equine causes.

DONATIONS WELCOME PEOPLE HELPING PEOPLE HELPING HORSES

Bob Watson, President 403-378-4323 cbwatson@cciwireless.ca www.equinefoundationofcanada.com

4/22

11/22

BC WELSH PONY & COB ASSOC. (see Facebook) Pres: Rosanne 604-302-7650, bcwelsh@shaw.ca. Breed promotion program throughout the province. 4/22 BOUCHIE LAKE GYMKHANA CLUB (Quesnel BC). May to September. All info on our Facebook Page: B LAKE Gymkhana CLUB. Tel: 250-249-9667 11/22 BOUNDARY HORSE ASSOCIATION (Grand Forks BC), Offering shows, gymkhanas, clinics & more. See us on Facebook, 250-443-3191, kmespenhain@telus.net 4/22

Canadian Cowboy Challenge

12/21

A SPORT for the whole Family!

Hoping to host a full season of Challenges in 2021 For more info please call 403-828-2044 or visit www.canadiancowboychallenge.com

D E A D LI N E 34 • DECEMBER 2021

SADDLEUP.CA

10/22

INTERIOR CUTTING HORSE ASSOCIATION www.ichacutting.com New cutters always welcome. Lee Poncelet 250-938-2034 9/22

5th of each month

Clubs & Associations LANGLEY RIDERS SOCIETY, www.langleyriders.com. English/Western, Games, Jumping, Drill Team, Rodeo. 604-530-5981 11/22

Smooth • Versatile • Intelligent www.phac.ca/BC/index.html

LOWER MAINLAND QUARTER HORSE ASSOC. Pres: Tamara Jameson, tamarajameson@hotmail.com, http://bcqha.com/index.php/LMQHA 12/21 NORTH OK THERAPEUTIC RIDING ASSOC. 250-549-0105 www.notra.info Providing therapeutic horseback riding for children and adults with disabilities 9 /22 OKANAGAN POLO CLUB (Kelowna BC), new members welcome, weekly gatherings, annual tournament, and fun! www.okanaganpoloclub.com 9/22

100 Mile & District Outriders

Peruvian Horse Club of BC 9/22

PRINCETON RIDING CLUB, Pres: Stephanie Antonick, santonick@hotmail.com See us on Facebook. Offering shows, clinics and more! 2/22 RUSTY SPURS 4-H HORSE CLUB (Abbotsford BC) Open to Youth 6-19, Rustyspurshorse4h@gmail.com & Find us on Facebook! 12/21

7/18 10/21

Promoting equine activities and knowledge in the south Cariboo with Shows, Clinics, Gymkhanas and more.

Harvey President: Adam Mike Kidston E-mail: info@outriders.com ~ www.100mileoutriders.com

PEACHLAND RIDING CLUB, Pres: Kevin Froese (Kevin.leroy.froese@gmail.com).

Info, Gymkhana dates & events at www.peachlandridingclub.com 6/22

SOUTH CENTRAL QUARTER HORSE ASSOC., Host of April Fuzzy Horse Show and September AQHA Circuit Show, http://bcqha.com/index.php/scqha 12/22 VINTAGE RIDERS EQUESTRIAN CLUB (Fraser Valley BC), English/Western, lectures, clinics, socials, safe and fun, vintageriders@shaw.ca, on Facebook 4/22 WILD ROSE DRAFT HORSE ASSOCIATION, www.wrdha.com. Barb Stephenson (Secretary) phone 403-933-5765 (8:00 am to 8:00 pm) 6/22

Clubs - you should be listed here Non-profit rates start at only $100 per year and includes a FREE web link for one year!

Stallions & Breeders APPALOOSACENTRE.COM 250-963-9779 Real Appaloosas for Today and the Future! 9/21 FOOTNOTE FARM FJORDS (Langley BC) 778-822-3276. Registered & imported breeding stock. Bred for performance and built to last. www.footnotefarm.com 5/22 OLD BALDY RANCH (Dawson Creek) 250-843-7337 SS: Breeding AQHA/NFQH Grullo & Blue Roan, www.northernhorse.com/oldbaldy 12/21 SUNSET VIEW RANCH (West Kelowna BC) 250-707-7271. Top Performance AQHA/APHA bloodlines, Breeding & Sales. SS: Dunit Canadian Style 3/22

BREEDERS YOUR LISTING SHOULD BE HERE.

ONLY $250 PER YEAR PLUS A WEB LINK AT JUST $50 PER YEAR

DECEMBER 2021

SADDLEUP.CA • 35

Business Services FARRIERS & SUPPLIES

9/22

ARENA MAINTENANCE

3/22

BEDDING, HOG FUEL, SHAVINGS

• Horse

WWW.REIMERSFARMSERVICE.COM (BC Interior) 1-855-737-0110 or 250-838-0111. Bulk & Bagged Shavings, 4x4x4 Totes, Sawdust, Bark Mulch

FEED DEALERS ASHCROFT HOME BUILDING CENTRE (Ashcroft) 250-453-2281 Otter Co-op Dealer & Pet Foods. You can find us on Facebook 11/22

12/21

100% Canadian

31852 Marshall Place 5410 Trans Canada Hwy. 103-1889 Springfield Rd. 975 Langford Parkway 1-1227 Island Hwy. S. 587 Alberni Hwy. 1970 Keating Cross Rd. 1771 10th Ave SW 2565 Main St.

556-7477 748-8171 860-2346 940-4499 753-4221 248-3243 652-9188 832-8424 768-8870

FENCING

DEAD STOCK REMOVAL THE BLUE GOOSE CATTLE CO. (Ok/Shuswap) 250-309-0629 or 250-838-2157, Providing prompt dead stock removal service when the decision has to be made. 4/22

Gates, Panels, Feeders, Continuous FenCe deer & Farm FenCe installations

EDUCATION

Custom built and installed to your needs

GRK Fasteners Dealer * Customized Bale Spikes * Custom Welding * Horse Trailer Repairs *Serving BC/AB/WA for over 10 years

Wanted Wranglers / Trail Guides

Alan Cossentine, Oliver, BC • 250-490-5662

Guide on Guest Ranch / Horse pack trips www.chilcotinholidays.com

ABBOTSFORD DUNCAN KELOWNA LANGFORD NANAIMO PARKSVILLE SANNICH SALMON ARM WEST KELOWNA

7/22 6/21

Ph: 250-503-7432 NATA FARMS Serving BC’s Interior including South Okanagan

11/22

5/22

Shavings • Hog Fuel • Bark Mulch • Compost

8/19 11/22

alc@cffence.com • www.cffence.com

3/22

12/22

EQUINE HEALTH

3/22

WHOLESALE PANELS & GATES countrywestsupply.com ARMSTRONG 250-546-9174

CHILLIWACK 1-877-847-3735

NANAIMO 250-912-0095

GUEST RANCHES 2/22

FARM SUPPLIES HORSE HAY SALES (Calgary AB) Meadow Brome Grass/Alfalfa mix, tested, mghorse7@gmail.com, 403-325-5556 2/22

D E A D LI N E 5th of each month 36 • DECEMBER 2021

SADDLEUP.CA

5/22

Business Services GUEST RANCHES

TRAINERS/COACHES Close to nature Far from crowds 8-10,000 acres & private lake

DAWN FERSTER (Kelowna BC) Coaching/Training/Workshops 250-808-0738 Mountain Trail/Western/Dressage, see Damarhe Training on FB 3/22 7/22

Spring Lake Guest Ranch

www.springlakeranch.com • 250-791-5776 (100 Mile House BC)

ELISA MAROCCHI (100 Mile House BC), EC Licensed Driving Coach 250-706-2824 Clinics, Lessons, Training on/off farm, www.wildwoodfarm.ca 5/22 10/22

LESSON PROGRAMS WWW.FOOTNOTEFARM.COM (Langley BC) 778-822-3276 Certified instructors, safe & sound horses, curriculum followed, privates for beginners. 5/22

REALTORS

WESTWIN REALTY

5/22

CASIE MENHINICK REALTOR®

Specializing in BC’s Rural Communities

International Clinician and Horseman 1-877-728-8987 www.thehorseranch.com LEE PONCELET TRAINING STABLES (Vernon, BC) 250-938-2034 Starting Colts.

Training all levels. Specializing in Cutting/Cowhorse. www.lpperformancehorses.com 8 /22

HORSE FIRST HORSEMANSHIP

778-209-0305 E-mail: casie@royallepage.ca Follow me on social media @kamloopsandruralrealestate 7/22

SADDLEMAKERS & REPAIRS DON LOEWEN SADDLERY, 1802 Houston St., Merritt BC, 250-525-0220 Custom saddlery, chaps, repairs, leather bags & more, www.donloewen.com

Build Something Lasting

Elisha Bradburn is available for Clinics & Events Based out of Faithful Farm in Langley, BC Follow Legacy Horsemanship on Facebook and Instagram E-mail inquiries to legacyhorsemanship@shaw.ca

SANDY LANG HORSEMANSHIP (Abbotsford BC) 778-344-3804, Foundation Focus Working Equitation, Natural Horsemanship, www.sandylanghorsemanship.com 9/22 5/22

TACK/CLOTHING SHOPS DIAMOND H TACK INC. (Kelowna BC) 877-762-5631 English & Western Saddlery, Clothes, Farrier, Feed, Blanket & Leather Repairs 10/22

TRAILER REPAIRS PETERSEN TRAILERS LTD. (Langley) 604-533-4209 Service and Repairs. All makes. www.petersentrailers.ca 7/22

TRAILER SALES KITT EQUIPMENT TRAILER SALES, (Chilliwack & Aldergrove), 1-877-823-7199, Horse ~ Stock ~ Utility ~ Dump ~ Flatdecks, Kittequipment.com 4/22

SOMATIC RIDER AND ENERGY MEDICINE - Lisa Wieben (Vernon BC) Balance the Rider, Balance the Horse, www.somaticrider.com, 403-335-5993 7/22 THE ROCK’N STAR RANCH (Pritchard BC) Natural Care Boarding. Training. Education.

Offering quality care, horsemanship support & education. therocknstarranch.com 3/22

VETERINARIANS ANIMAL CARE HOSPITAL Williams Lake 250-392-5510 / Quesnel 250-747-3053 Drs. Magnowski, Scheidt, Thompson, Jordan, Ree , 4/22 INTERIOR VETERINARY HEALTH SERVICES (Okanagan) 250-769-4217, Mobile Equine, Brytann Youngberg DVM, VSMT, College of Animal Chiropractors 9/22

KAMLOOPS LARGE ANIMAL VETERINARY CLINIC

ALICIA HARPER of Hylee Training, EC Comp. Coach/Trainer. Specializing in Western, available for training, lessons/clinics, www.hyleetraining.com 2/22 BIRGIT STUTZ, Irwin Insights Master Level 6 Cert. Trainer, www.fallingstarranch. ca, Training/lessons/clinics/student programs, Dunster BC, 250-968-6801 10/22

9/22

TRAINERS/COACHES OKANAGAN EQUINE VETERINARY SERVICES (Kelowna) 250-764-9888 Sheila McDonald DVM, www.okanaganequinevet.com

12/21

WALES EQUINE VETERINARY SERVICES (Okanagan) 250-258-2299 Drs. Alex Wales and Dr. Susan Wales, www.walesequine.com 9/22

YOUR BUSINESS SHOULD BE HERE!

LISTINGS START AT ONLY $250 PER YEAR (FOR 12 ISSUES);

PLUS WE CAN ADD A WEB LINK FOR JUST $50 PER YEAR. SEE PAGE 4 FOR CONTACT INFO. DECEMBER 2021

SADDLEUP.CA • 37

On The Market (Private Sale) The Peruvian Horse

The smoothest riding horse in the world!

For Pleasure, Trail, Show, Work...

Discover the versatile Peruvian Horse at PHAC.ca!

We Have the Blues!

If you’re looking for your “Heart look no further!

We breed and train GYPSY COBS AND VANNERS

2021 Foals will be available sired by:

LBJ Sierras Blue Te | AQHA Blue Roan and his son AW Blue Fire N Te | AQHA Blue Roan

Aimee & Luc Beauchamp 250-438-1066

12/21

Aaron & Colleen Wangler 250-843-7337 (Dawson Creek BC) oldbaldy@hotmail.ca www.northernhorse.com/oldbaldy

Horse”

Visit PHAC.ca for more Information on this Incredible Breed!

(Princeton BC) ponderosaridgeranch@outlook.com PonderosaRidgeRanch.ca

8/22 3/17

11/22

PHOTO ADS ONLY $60

Glynn Irish Sport Horse

(OR LESS)

10/21

38 • DECEMBER 2021

SADDLEUP.CA

Mick 403-325-5556 mghorse7@gmail.com

2/22

NEXT DEADLINE JANUARY 5

Shop & Swap!

HORSE BLANKET LAUNDRY & REPAIRS

MISCELLANEOUS

HORSE BLANKET & SADDLE PAD WASHING & Repairs. Clean used Blankets for sale. Town Centre Dry Cleaners, Town Centre Mall. 250-546-0104 (Armstrong BC) 12/21

NEXT DEADLINE JANUARY 5, 2022 FOR THE FEBRUARY ISSUE. REMEMBER, THERE IS NO JANUARY ISSUE

DEEP CREEK GENERAL STORE Custom Made Chaps Any Style Saddle, Tack & Blanket Repairs Top Quality Australian Saddles

ARMSTRONG’S GENERAL STORE

that has a little bit of everything Dealer for

Sherri DeBoer • 250-838-0778 email: theleatherlady95@gmail.com Hwy 97, Grindrod, BC Open Mon - Sat 9-6 pm 12/21

Pet Food & Supplies Wood Shavings and MORE

250-546-3955

3455 Pleasant Valley Rd. Armstrong, BC

Rural Roots

REALTORS, YOUR LISTING SHOULD BE HERE ADS ARE ONLY $85 OR LESS! AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR

1-866-546-9922 for more info

KOOTENAY MOUNTAIN ACREAGE

Be inspired by our Big Sky in Passmore! Located on a sunny bench above the Slocan River, here’s your chance to live in a contemporary and high-efficiency designed 2 bed/2 bath home with office, garden room and workshop attached. The 5+ acre property offers a fenced garden, a storage/outdoor work building, a 3-piece outdoor washroom and guest accommodation. Additional multiple building sites, RV hookups, newly developed infrastructure, future development space, and breathtaking views! The adjacent 5-acre land parcel could also be negotiated with the sale.

3811 Passmore Upper Road, Passmore BC $1,700,000 MLS® 2460992 CONTACT: TRENT WHALE 250-551-8654 trent@trentwhale.com Coldwell Banker Rosling Real Estate (Nelson)

DECEMBER 2021

12/21

SADDLEUP.CA • 39

40 • DECEMBER 2021

SADDLEUP.CA