Saddle Up March 2018

MaRch 2018

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Guys Casanova Cowboy Photos by Bonnie Cazier

Hayes Blue Valentine WILDWOOD RANCHES Publications Mail Reg. No. 40045521 Printed in Canada

March 2018

SADDLEUP.CA • 1

Fuel You r Work With Fun !

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Find us on

Featuring the 80 Apex

Real Steel & Real Welds

Congratulations to Bradner Hill Farms on your new Arena!

(See story on page 27)

March 2018

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

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

O

kay, it can stop snowing anytime soon!

I do love winter and I do love snow (am/ was a skier), but not on this ‘sloped...

4x4 driveway… studded-tires-only-to-get-up’ property. Plus, my horse trailer is buried… so much for heading out in the spring.

Gotta love my “BAY” babes (as seen on my Facebook posts) – have you horse folks noticed, no matter the weather, our horses seem to prefer standing out in the inclement “BAY”watch babes (mares) winter 2017/2018 weather, versus standing ‘dry’ under cover, what the? If anyone has a theory… please explain.

I just finished entering all the new dates for the ‘What’s Happening? Let’s Go!’ calendar – WOW – so many things happening… date overload! Remember, the entire year is printed on our website – take a look-see!

Want to shout out a BIG THANK YOU (and much appreciation) to Stephanie Kwok for assisting me in editing articles over the past seven years… how time flies! Good luck in your ‘art’ endeavours. Definitely going to miss you!

See you all out and about…

Nancy ON THE COVER: Wildwood Ranches, www.wildwoodranches.org CONTRIBUTORS: Stephanie Kwok, Birgit Stutz, Lisa Wieben, Glenn Stewart, Christa Miremadi, Vicki McKinnon, Rocky Davis, Donna Hawkins, Kristi Luehr, Dr. Tomas Teskey DVM, Colleen Pedrotti, Greta Oakes, Bruce A. Roy. OFFICIAL VOICE FOR: Back Country Horsemen of BC, Lower Mainland Quarter Horse Association, BC Rodeo Association.

MEDIA PARTNER WITH HORSE COUNCIL BC and BUSINESS MEMBER WITH AEF

Deadline 5th 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.

4 • March 2018

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FEATURES Teskey (Exploring Equine Health) Rewarding Partnerships Formulating a Trimming Plan CBD Oil – A Breakthrough Horseman Len Cooke Passes On Physical Fitness for your Horse Horsemanship in Brazil Alberta Cutter Rocky Davis Alberta’s $50,000 Sire World According to Horses Training Have a Missing Link?

NOTRA Needs You Annual Construction Feature

Our Regulars 7 8 10 12 13 14 16 18 19 20 22 24 25

Top Dog! 32 Horse Council BC 34 It’s Back! What’s This?

35 Back Country Horsemen of BC 37 Lower Mainland QH Assoc.

38 BC Rodeo Association 39 Clubs/Associations 40 41 What’s Happening? Let’s Go! Business Services 42 KIDS 45 Stallions/Breeders 45 On The Market (photo ads) 46 Rural Roots (real estate) 46 Shop & Swap 47

This poem was omitted from Judy’s ‘Euthanasia’ article in the February issue on page 16. We apologize for the error.

OOPS

Farewell, My Friend

By Judy Ullman

I wrote the following poem for my ‘Cody Chrome’ (Einstein) to whom the poem is dedicated.

I hope that sharing it will help others facing this decision.

Silence enfolds me, broken only by tremulous breathing I run my hands over a chest, painfully heaving Continuing across muscles etched in my mind With the knowledge, a truer friend I’ll never find Than the one gazing at me with pain-filled eyes Never between us existed the need for lies Nor complex, conniving, human deceit and cunning Only the mutual joy gained from carefree running Our bodies moving in a rhythmic dance as one Triumphantly streaking towards the setting sun How can I deny the silent, unspoken plea?

Shimmering in trusting eyes “set me free” Slowly I nod, a stranger’s hand draws near Choking on tears, I whisper, “there is nothing to fear” The descending needle holds the elixir of death With a final shudder, my friend draws his last breath He was my best friend and partner of course To those without understanding, just a horse

WildWOOd RanChEs Guys Casanova Cowboy

2010 Palomino Stallion, 15.3HH, 1250 lbs Sire: Leading Barrel Sire, Frenchmans Guy, 10 Million Dollar Sire Dam: Amber Holland, SI 88, Holland Ease, SI 109 Full Brother to: Guys Amberetto - 4th in the Sand Cup Futurity Average - PacWest Slot Race Reserve Champion - Diamonds & Dirt Finals Qualifier - LTE: $50,000+

Photos by Bonnie Cazier

2018 STUD FEE: $1200 LFG On Farm AI – Shipped cooled & frozen semen available.

Eligibilities: VGBRA, CBHI Incentives & Superstakes & Western Fortunes

Hayes Blue Valentine

2005 46.8% Blue Valentine Blue Roan Stallion

By Leo Hancock Hayes Sire of: Valentine Of Honour, 2008 Red Roan Gelding - Futurity Winner, 1D & 2D Winner Fire Water Val, 2009 Sorrel Mare - Futurity Placings, Multiple 1D Winner 2018 STUD FEE: $800 LFG Live Cover Only Eligibilities: CBHI Incentives & Superstakes

Check out our website for Sale Prospects and our Broodmare Band!

For more information call: 250-497-8452 (Okanagan Falls, BC) Email: wildwoodranches@telus.net www.wildwoodranches.org March 2018

SADDLEUP.CA • 5

Dear Editor…

Letters to the Editor are welcome and printed on a space availability basis.

Dear Saddle Up:

W

e need your help for our acquisition of Federal Land for an Exhibition/Equestrian/Rodeo Facility for Kamloops BC. We are trying to acquire the land and buildings on Ord Road of which was a Federal Experimental Farm abandoned some 10 years ago.

Our MP, Cathy McLeod, stated all unused/abandoned Federal lands have to be offered to Indian bands for their exclusive use before ‘we’ the general populist. Our MP Cathy McLeod has showed no interest in helping with this public venture.

This is a huge undemocratic position our Federal Government has put in place for a minority group of people. Canadian population of which 4.5% are North American Natives, who have not contributed, nor paid taxes for any upkeep of these Federal properties; let alone the infrastructure on any Federal lands, receive preferential treatment over these Federal lands.

We are now at our Federal Minister of Agriculture Lawrence MacAulay’s office in Ottawa with our request to lease this facility for 100 years.

Our intention is for the said property to be kept as Agriculture Land, used for Exhibition/Equestrian/Rodeo Facility for all Canadians to use, including our native collective.

Kamloops city council has shown no interest in this community venture to date - this is where we need your help. We need information from all BC Exhibition Associations and Rodeo Associations to present our position to the Kamloops city council.

We would like a head count of each event on your grounds. This would of course project an estimated business increase to the community.

Any questions please phone: (VP Kamloops Exhibition Association) Mr. Fred Pain at 250-571-8885 at the Ranch.

Please forward any pertinent information to my email address ASAP, frankedesmet@msn.com.

Please check out Facebook (kamloops needs an ag ex facility).

We REALLY appreciate everything you can do to help this venture in Kamloops BC, for all citizens. Thank You. - Frank Desmet, Kamloops BC

6/18

6 • March 2018

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Dear Editor:

I

n response to Winifred Jantz’s letter to the editor in the February issue in which she promoted slaughter as a means to deal with the over-abundance of horses, particularly the old and unwanted, I feel I must protest.

While I fully agree with her assertion that over-breeding has resulted in this excess of animals, and the ensuing slaughter industry which has been the primary method of disposal of the animals, that is where I draw the line. You don’t have to look far in these days of social media to see what a trip to the slaughterhouse looks like and the horrors awaiting the horses that, not long before, were someone’s beloved friend and family member who gave them a lifetime of service and companionship. I won’t go into the shocking details of how they are handled, packed into transport trucks where vulnerable (young, elderly, sick or injured) are trampled in the mass of frightened and panicking animals, or how they are held in cramped filthy pens for days without shelter, food or water. Or of the vulgar ‘processing’ that often uses electrocution to shock them before they are hung by chains to bleed out, often still alive and aware. You can find this information, and often videos which graphically show the miserable fate your horse will meet if you allow it to go this route.

No horse should ever end up in this situation. A responsible horse owner has options, but for their own convenience and cost-savings, many turn a blind eye to the harsh reality and send their friends to be mercilessly butchered for profit. There is nothing good or right about this. If you can’t afford to support your animals throughout the course of their life, including death, then you should rethink your decision to bring them into your life. Two wrongs don’t make a right.

- S. Hudson, Armstrong BC

By Dr. Tomas Teskey, DVM

E

Last summer, I adventured north from the Arizona desert to the beautiful Slocan Valley.

Along with forty other human adventurers and several horses, the first Whole Horse Health Clinic was held, and I am now excited to announce the next adventure is planned for this June!

ach year I spend working with horses makes me more in touch with their health issues and brings more chances to fine-tune techniques of handling, hoof trimming, dentistry, body work, nutrition and behaviour analysis -- bringing it all together into the Big Picture is my goal. I share everything I know and feel about being successful with horses -- the best of the best of more than 25 years of experience.

Nothing I’ve learned about horses has “stayed the same” over the years. Each new insight brings more clarity and focus to the whole horse. What does hold steady is my desire and trust in learning more -- each horse and each horse owner brings valuable information to my perspective.

This year, Dr. Laura Taylor will be attending and offering insights into horses as well. Her experience over many years in veterinary practice and dedication to the Big Picture of health will help us develop all of our senses when being with the horses. Truly, we are moving beyond traditions that continually come up short in providing the answers to our horse-keeping issues.

This year, I will be presenting my research that is identifying some interesting ideas of how horses are balancing themselves from the ground up. Starting with the type of terrain they move on, we will look at what makes horses feel and work their best, and how this affects lines of communication through their bodies, even showing up in how they wear their teeth. Once we understand the variety of “inputs” to the horses’ environment, and the predictable consequences to their health, we can truly rock their world for better or worse.

More in-depth information will be shared on how to make the most of your space, feeding practices, hoof trimming techniques, healthy saddle and bridle options, use of herbs in different situations, the amount and quality of movement that makes the difference, and the basic landmarks of the horse’s body that you can easily see to identify health issues and how to monitor them for progress.

Once again, we will present two different dissections of a horse’s hoof and lower leg. These demonstrations offer us the chance to improve our x-ray vision and understanding of this most vital part of the horse, and often provide such sharp moments of realization that you will never see horses the same way. You will wonder where the

time went as we look at the beautiful arrangement that helps horses be the animals we love. An understanding of hoof health and how to maintain it allows you to save your horse’s life -- it’s that critical.

We will work with a few horses during the clinic, giving you an opportunity to see how I approach a horse and work with him to identify issues and then what I do to set him up for better health. If I do my job correctly with a horse and the owner, I should be out of a job. Traditionally and still today, veterinarians perform their duties and make their money responding to accidents and disease that are often completely preventable. I want to turn that around for you, because the loss of horses and the strain on us as their caregivers is like watching a runaway train.

What if you could apply just a handful of simple techniques to allow your horses better health? My goal is to empower you with these ideas to enjoy your horses, developing a relationship you may have never thought possible. I can only help horses by helping people understand them better -- that’s what I feel called to do and that’s why I’m coming to see you all.

I hope to meet you in Slocan, BC, on June 22-24, 2018. You can read more about me on Facebook at Tomas G. Teskey Veterinary Insights, and please contact www.exploringequinehealth.weebly.com for more information and to secure your spot in our adventure.

March 2018

SADDLEUP.CA • 7

Rewarding Partnerships Having established appropriate communication with our horses and having used this communication to begin to develop reliable leadership, a rewarding partnership is right around the corner.

H

owever, I think it’s important to clarify that rewarding partnerships are earned on a daily basis. This means that developing this partnership isn’t something you do once and then it’s yours forever; it’s something you’ll have to care for, for as long as you want to keep it. Rewarding partnerships, the way I see them anyway, are delicate, living things.

One of the most common questions I get from new students is “how long will I have to do this for?” -- referring, of course, to laying down clear, firm boundaries and helping their horses to understand what their expectations are. The answer is always the same: for as long as you want your partnership to last. Of course, it gets easier and more subtle over time, but you’ll always need to be able to recognize his requests and be ready and willing to support your horse when he asks for guidance.

Horses are (obviously) living, breathing, sentient creatures who care deeply about their survival and thrive in their natural social situations. We’re able to establish appropriate forms of functional communication with them and develop a reliable leadership role by appealing to these natural instincts and desires to be a part of a reliable social system. They know we’re not horses but that social system is so important to them that they’ll gladly take the company of a human over being alone. That being said, they’d still usually prefer the company of other horses than the company of a human.

It’s important, I think, not to take that fact too personally. It’s unreasonable to expect a horse not to be bothered by leaving their herd or by seeing another horse off in the distance or not to become excited by the escalating energy of the horses around them while on a trail ride. What isn’t unreasonable, however, is to expect a horse to develop

8 • March 2018

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By Christa Miremadi

Oliver and I have been developing our partnership together for over 25 years. Now, somewhere over 30 years old, he’s retired from riding but he’s still the horse who all other partnerships are measured against.

the ability to take your directions, despite how they may be feeling.

So long as you’ve been successful in establishing communication and developing your leadership, that is.

A few years back, I was helping a student of mine to introduce her mare to riding the trails at a public park. This particular mare was well used to back country trails but not the strange and unusual things you find roaming the local regional parks, like bikes, dog walkers or baby carriages. For a back-country horse, these kinds of things can be pretty unnerving. I was on my horse Cisco, who’s well versed at dealing with these kinds of wildlife. Cisco isn’t the bravest of horses, but he is reliable and really only has a few things that really set him off.

On this particular day, however, there was more than the usual park crawlers roaming about...

We’d gone about half way around the park when we turned a bend that took the trail down a long, straight path between a row of trees with a fence on one side and a fairly substantial drop off lined with more trees on the other. About half way down this very long, straight path was a rather large group of kids and adults. Apparently, there was a summer camp in session close by and they’d decided to take a field trip to the park. They were laughing and talking loudly and playing music and there were at least 30 of them! This was more than the average trail challenge for both our horses.

Incredibly, this student’s mare was quite brave and marched on forward and past this oversized herd of two-legged predators, nervous but without hesitation. Cisco, followed close behind, skeptically eyeballing the group of kids and gown ups, who had very cooperatively agreed to turn off their music and stand still in a single file line to the side of the trail in order to give our horses space to pass safely. Cisco was doing very well until we got to about the twenty-fifth kid and he saw the last five people in the line. They were all very tall young men, each holding a big walking stick that was taller than they were.

Now, remember when I said there are only a few things that set Cisco off? Well, apparently, one of those things is tall boys with even taller sticks! Cisco put on the brakes and tensed up. To my right was a thick line of trees bordered by a fence. To my left was the lineup of kids and grownups stretching about forty feet back along the trail, behind them, a fairly substantial drop-off lined with trees. Cisco was clearly letting me know he could not pass the kids in front of him and that he was worried enough about their presence and intentions that he really

(Photo by Carol Dymond)

(Photos by Kristina Belkina)

needed to remove himself from the situation.

Cisco has had a history of bolting in the past... He used to turn tail and run whenever he felt the need. No amount of pulling or tugging could stop him. If you tried to disengage his hips with a one rein stop he could run full tilt with his nose kissing your knee. When he let me know he needed to leave the situation with the kids, I was reminded of this history and the fact that I was completely at the mercy of the relationship we’ve built; however, he simply lowered his nose about 3” and began backing up slowly. He carefully minded my legs on either side and respected my request to remain straight and simply and slowly backed the full length of the campers.

When we got to the other end, where he’d put enough distance between himself and the tall boys with sticks, and where I felt that we’d gotten to a safe distance from the rest of the group, he stopped moving and breathed a big sigh of relief.

My student’s horse became upset that Cisco had left and so she let her mare turn and join us at the other end of the group. We did end up passing the group and everything turned out just fine but I was very grateful that Cisco had the decency and respect for our relationship to find an appropriate way to communicate his needs with me and took my suggestions about how to proceed easily. I’m sure he was equally grateful that I understood how important it was to him as well.

He trusted my judgement and I heard his request. I don’t know how things might have been different if I’d tried to force him to pass those kids or if I’d allowed myself to become upset because he didn’t just go where I said. Rewarding relationships, at least the way I see them, are rewarding for both sides, not just for the human and require a great deal of understanding and development to achieve. This is a

process that takes a bit of time and skill to navigate but the end results, in my opinion anyway, are well worth the effort.

Christa Miremadi has been working with horses since 1984, and is a partner and facility manager in her family business in Langley, Silver Star Stables, where she also provides riding instruction and conducts horsemanship clinics. Christa is dedicated to creating harmony and building relationships between horses and humans through compassionate communication, and to strengthening partnerships by sharing the horse’s point of view.

(See her listing in the Business Services Section under TRAINERS)

March 2018

SADDLEUP.CA • 9

Can we approach hoof trimming with a one-size-fits-all approach?

Definitely not. There are several factors that I consider when I am formulating my trimming plan.

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F

irst and foremost, what is the overall condition of the horse’s hooves and how is he/she moving? Second is the owner’s expectations of the horse. I also consider what type of ground the horse lives and works on, what type of riding the horse is used for and whether or not the horse has any previous injuries or conformational issues. The bottom line for me is what will be most beneficial to the horse.

When I evaluate a horse for the first time, I try to look at the condition of the hooves with an open mind. I try to imagine what the plan was that the previous trimmer had and compare it to what I think needs to happen. For me, all trimming is a work in progress and I am constantly trying to allow the horse to grow and forge a stronger hoof.

In our climate, hooves can change drastically with the seasons and the amount of moisture in the ground. If the horse has relatively healthy hooves and is moving well without any concerns from the owner, then things can be pretty straightforward. But on the other hand, if the horse’s hooves are showing signs of pathology then we have to address that and consider what our priorities are in the trimming plan.

For instance, if a horse has excessively tall heels but also an infected frog, it would not be advisable to trim the heels low and drop the sensitive frog down to receive ground pressure. Instead, I would trim the heels conservatively and have the owner treat the infected frog for a few weeks before assessing if I could then lower the heels to a more comfortable level. Infection takes priority over hoof angle in that instance and is not so straightforward. Another scenario might be a horse with a thin sole that has bar growing out over top of the sole. I would like to trim the bar back but, when the sole is very thin, it is sometimes helpful to leave the bar over the sole in order to protect the weaker structure and support the coffin bone that is inside. Even though the bar, in some cases, can cause bruising if allowed to overgrow, it is a higher priority to protect the coffin bone. At a later date, we can bring the bars back to where they need to be. Sometimes we can work on several things at once in small increments, other times we have to prioritize based on the horse’s condition and comfort level.

Managing owner’s expectations is probably the hardest part of the job. Most owners want me to trim a beautiful hoof onto their horse (hopefully) in one visit with no lameness or special diets or paddock improvements. The truth is a beautiful hoof can’t be trimmed, it has to be grown and that takes time and work. For starters, it takes a consistent trimming schedule. For most horses, that means 6-week cycles, but some need more frequent and others can go longer. As for lameness,

An overgrown hoof will have a much more complex trimming plan

Bringing the terrain you want to ride on into your horse’s paddock

I never want to make a horse sore after trimming, but there are times when a horse might be sensitive after a trim. For instance, if the horse has missed several trimming cycles, there will be a lot of extra material to take off.

The underlying hoof may not be calloused and the horse might be sensitive for a few days even if I trim conservatively. An overgrown hoof can also restrict the hooves’ natural ability to expand and contract therefore reducing blood flow through the hoof. The trim then allows this expansion and contraction to happen again and the sudden increase in blood flow can cause a mild inflammation. A horse’s diet has a direct impact on hoof health and some owners are limited to having only pasture to keep their horses on, and some horses cannot handle a grass diet. The major implications of the diet then show up in their hooves. It can be very complicated to educate owners about what their horse needs in order to improve their hoof health and still be within the budget and resources they have.

The horse’s living environment affects my trimming plan as well. For instance, if a horse lives on soft ground I can leave a little more hoof wall and heel height to allow the hoof to sink into the ground and yet still stimulate the sole and frog with ground contact. But if the horse lives on hard ground such as clay or hard packed dirt, that extra height will prevent the sole and frog from touching the ground at all.

A common scenario is a horse that lives on soft ground but the owner wants to trail ride on hard, rocky ground. The best answer to this is to bring more of the hard, rocky ground into the horse’s living environment so that his hooves can build up the callous needed to travel on it.

If you think about it, people who spend a lot of time outdoors barefoot build up callous and can walk on rough surfaces without flinching; but, if you always wear shoes and then try to walk barefoot on that rough ground, it will be

Most important to me is what is in the best interest of the horse. I endeavour to always leave the horse better than when I arrived. Through my trimming plan and my efforts to educate owners, I want to help each horse grow the healthiest hooves possible.

Often my trimming plan will evolve and change over time, but I am always planning each trim with future progress in mind.

A healthy hoof, a straightforward trimming plan uncomfortable. Horses need to build callous and their hooves will adapt to the surface just like we would build the callous on our feet over time. Not all boarding situations will allow for this and a simple answer is the use hoof protection when you ride in the form of hoof boots. Hoof boots have improved significantly in the last few years. They are now lightweight, form fitting, durable and much easier to use than in the past.

Another factor I consider is the type of riding the horse will be used for. Trail riding and endurance horses probably need the toughest feet. When trimming these horses, I really have to consider the callous they have built and make sure not to remove it. I also want to make sure their hoof is working in such a way that it can function properly. That is the expansion and contraction I mentioned earlier.

The result of that movement within the hoof capsule is energy dissipation. When working on hard surfaces, reducing impact energy is important so that it doesn’t reverberate up through the horse’s joints; whereas a jumping, reining or dressage horse works on softer ground, but needs to be very delicately balanced. A slight imbalance could result in severe injury or even long-term damage when performing jumps or maneuvers repeatedly.

Conformation and previous injuries are also important factors. A horse with a deep digital flexor tendon injury might need a higher heel to reduce the pull on the tendon in movement, trimming this horse with a low heel could cause long term damage. Each horse is individual in their conformation and movement, and this has to be factored in.

Kristi Luehr, owner/operator of Okanagan School of Natural Hoof Care, is a natural trimmer as well as an advocate for natural horsemanship. She owns a herd of eight barefoot horses, and spends her time riding, trimming and teaching. Kristi holds certification with the Canadian Farrier School, The Oregon School of Natural Hoof Care, and as an equine massage therapist.

22

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Saturday, May 12 www.diamondhtack.ca

March 2018

SADDLEUP.CA • 11

CBD Oil – A Breakthrough in Natural Healing for People, Pets and Horses

Submitted by Denise Chapman

What is CBD?

Cannabidiol (CBD) is just one of over 85 cannabinoids that are identified in the cannabis plant. CBD is becoming increasingly popular amongst the masses for having a wide scope of medicinal benefits – due to clinical reports and mounds of test data showing little to no side effects and a lack of psycho-activity (typically associated with marijuana products and high THC). CBD benefits are vast!

How does CBD work in people, pets & horses?

All mammals have an endocannabinoid system. Cannabinoid receptors (known as CB1 and CB2) help regulate a wide range of bodily functions, including pain relief, inflammation, gastrointestinal disorders, mood and so much more.

Nothing we can ingest (non-drug) on a regular basis reduces inflammation like CBD. Enhancing our endocannabinoid systems (EDS) with CBD will help to control inflammatory responses using our own internal mechanisms for doing so.

This is the most exciting new advancement in natural pain management. If there is one supplement that every person, pet and horse should be on, it is overwhelmingly CBD.

Some CBD Testimonials Dog: A senior Staffordshire Terrier had a 6cm mammary tumor and metastasis that disappeared in three months and didn’t come back.

Cat: Chica was a nervous nelly and very unfriendly. CBD has made her calm and loving. Such a pleasure!

Horse: Belle, ex-racehorse, lame in hocks; the clicking in Belle’s hocks is gone and she is showing no lameness in them. She is moving more freely in her front end, which is probably due to a decrease in the soreness. Her general overall condition has greatly improved. We never got these results with glucosamine.

CBD may help with: • • • • • • • • • • •

Anxiety and depression Pain relief Seizures and epilepsy Prevent/kill cancer Protect nervous system All types of inflammation Cardiovascular health Diabetes Kidney disease Blood pressure Menopause

• Autoimmune disease • Neuroprotective • Promote bone growth • PTSD • Skin conditions • Migraines For an exhaustive list, GOOGLE! There is so much research and so many testimonials pouring in. CBD is worthy of your attention!

How to choose a good CBD oil • Make sure the product is certified organic. If it isn’t organic, your CBD oil contains pesticides, fungicides or solvents and is not pure.

• Don’t be cheap. The higher the quality and purity, the higher the cost.

Don’t price shop… make sure your CBD oil is free of additives and has a good amount of CBD. HempWorx is the PUREST CBD available and is manufactured at the only FDA-approved facility in the USA! • Check the analysis. Ask for a lab analysis of the amount of CBD in the product. Many CBD oils contain only small amounts of CBD. The manufacturer should provide a certificate of analysis. You’ll also want to make sure there is little or no THC in the product. HempWorx provides its analysis and certification right on the website (www.hempworx. global), and its THC is less than .03%, which is trace.

• Buy CBD as a tincture. You can buy CBD in treats but the best form is in a tincture. This way, you can adjust dosage to make sure you, your pets and your horses reap the most benefit.

Start off slowly and gradually increase until the desired effect is reached. HempWorx Global provides dosing instructions on its website as well.

Order online without a prescription. HempWorx products ship from Nevada. Pricing is in US funds, but there is no duty. When you purchase a 4-pack, you save $77.00.

HempWorx has products for people and pets. Tinctures come in 250mg, 500mg and 750mg and there are biscuits for dogs as well.

You can securely order pure organic CBD at www.hempworx. global or call 1-833-633-4367, toll-free.

12 • March 2018

SADDLEUP.CA

Leonard (Len) David Cooke 1942 - 2018

Len Cooke rode off into his final sunset in Oliver BC, on Friday, January 12th 2018 at the age of 75. Len fought a hard battle for 10 months against Glioblastoma brain cancer. In the end, he passed peacefully at home on his ranch with his wife and best friend of 49 years Donna, and son Loren by his side.

Our cowboy, Len, was born on April 8th, 1942 in Winnipeg, Manitoba. To say horses and animals were Len’s passion would be a great understatement. Len grew up in and around Calgary and began riding horses Riding Disco Queen (owned by Mark & Judy at an early age. He was training and showing horses Littke) at Zirnhelt’s spring cutting 2005. by the time he was twelve. After graduating from Len at the ranch in 2016.

Springbank High School in Calgary he accepted a job with professional horse trainer, Bill Collins, in Edmonton, launching his Campground and Country Pines Mobile Home Park at Gallagher Lake. professional equestrian career. For several years following his work with In 1980, they sold their successful business and Len, his wife Donna and Mr. Collins he worked with numerous trainers throughout Alberta and their son Loren moved to Willowbrook outside of Oliver and established the US learning from each, and eventually molding his own training Dry Creek Ranch where he resided until his passing. Len loved the techniques into what many of his students and clients deemed “The outdoors and loved camping, fly fishing, and hunting and despite his Cooke Experience.” It was Len’s passion in life to help riders experience love for the Okanagan Valley he also had a special place in his heart for and understand how a horse thinks and feels which helped to create the Crowsnest Pass in Alberta where he met his wife. Anyone who ever a positive interaction and stronger bond between horse and rider. met Len knew he was a true cowboy, and loved and represented the Throughout his 40 years as a professional horse trainer Len trained and cowboy way of life. He was a true country gentleman and would stop showed 100’s of horses and participated in the Canadian and United and help anyone that needed a hand without hesitation. He simply States Quarter Horse show circuits, reining events, and top cutting horse adored and worshipped his wife Donna. He loved to take her dancing competitions. Len also hosted and presented 100’s of horse clinics, and and quite often they were told their love for each other glowed when seminars at his ranch in Oliver BC and all throughout Canada and the those long legs of his were guiding her across the floor, snuggled up to United States, and was coach and mentor to 1,000’s of students, and a good old country waltz.

Len’s kind, gentle, and loving nature touched so many lives and their horses in the process.

Len was one of the founders of the Canadian Equestrian horses throughout the years; it is without doubt his legacy will live on Federation’s national western coaching program and a national in our hearts for years to come. examiner and course conductor. He was recognized for his efforts with this program with an Award of Merit from the Canadian Equestrian “You ask me what a cowboy knows, Not much of some things, I suppose, Federation and the 3M Coach Recognition Award from the Coaching He’s just a man of life and limb, Association of Canada and Horse Council of British Columbia. Len But we sure could use more, like him.” was also an honorary lifetime member of the Interior Cutting Horse Association.

He called Oliver and the Okanagan Valley home since 1973 when he A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, April 14, 2018 at Fairview and his brother Wayne, his wife Pat and their 3 children started the KOA Mountain Golf Complex in Oliver BC, commencing at 4 p.m.

March 2018

SADDLEUP.CA • 13

By Lisa Wieben and Birgit Stutz Photos by Rebecca Wieben

In-hand suppling work, turn on the forehand.

ince many horse owners are unsure how many days per week are needed in order to “keep their horse going,” we have outlined a few considerations below.

The answer to this question, of course, is not clear-cut and depends very much on each individual horse and what the horse will be used for. One day per week is only sufficient to maintain a horse in its current state of basic training. To begin to improve the horse’s

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physical fitness, two to three days per week will be necessary. To get or maintain a horse in performance-ready condition, four to five days per week will be required. If your plan for the year is to move up a level in competition, five days per week is ideal. This will allow you to build your horse’s physical fitness, strength and skills required for the new level.

Think of training your horse as similar to your own physical fitness journey. If you have decided to start the year off with a resolution to exercise, but the only time you have is one day per week, you are not going to make a noticeable change to your physical fitness.

However, if you commit to exercising four to five times per week you will begin to see noticeable changes within a few weeks. Variety in your workouts is key, alternating between strength training, cardiovascular training, and flexibility work. This gives a well-rounded program to cover all areas of physical fitness training.

Of course, not every session will be the same, especially with the performance horse. Approach your horse’s training with the same variety that you keep in mind when planning your own training sessions: cardiovascular, strength, and flexibility. While the horse may be ridden four to five days per week, each day can be different. To work on suppleness and flexibility, work with circles, bending lines such as serpentines, and some basic lateral work such as leg yields, spiraling in/leg yielding out of circles and turns on the forehand/turns on the haunches. Another day you may work on strength through transitions from walk to jog, jog to lope, walk to lope, as well as transitions within a gait, jog to lengthened jog, working jog to collected jog, lope to lengthened lope, lope to collected lope, and lateral work such as shoulder-in and haunches-in. Another day you may do work over poles. A search on the Internet will give you plenty of options for layouts for both jog/trot and lope/canter overs. One day per week should be a recovery day. You may take your horse out for a relaxed trail ride or work on more “stretchy-type” work, long and low, then back to connection. Sore muscles can develop from the strengthening work, especially if the horse is coming back to work after time off. The recovery day will help release soreness from the muscles through light movement. Working the horse long and low (free jog, etc.) will help the horse release and relax all the muscles over the topline. Working in this way will also help develop the horse’s “swing” through the ribcage.

Suppling exercises using pylons (spiral in/leg yield out)

Lope work

In-hand warm up

Supple, relaxed muscles will translate into smoother transitions and more willingness to move forward.

If your horse has had some extended time off, keep the sessions short and spend most of it at the walk. Each session should always begin with a good warm-up at a free walk, ideally 15 to 20 minutes, to increase blood flow, lubricate joints, and stretch muscles, before moving on to faster gaits and/or collected work. Your walk warm-up can also include any lateral work you plan to perform later in the ride. A nice walk leg yield can begin to warm up the muscles that will be required to do the movement at a higher gait. Groundwork is always a good option to begin each session. In-hand work, lungeing and ground driving are great ways to build cardiovascular fitness and strength while still keeping sessions short. Each week, you can gradually increase the length of the workouts or increase the time at the faster gaits (jog and lope). If your horse is out of shape, be reasonable in how much you ask of him, and never push him so much that he may injure himself.

Just as important as the warm-up is the cool-down. Keep your horse walking, either under saddle or in-hand, until his respiration has returned to normal and the temperature of his neck, chest and shoulder has cooled down. Soreness after a session can be greatly

Warming up long and low (free jog). The horse’s nose should ideally be in front of the vertical. limited with a relaxed cool-down. The end of the ride is also a great time to do any stretches or massaging your horse may need. This is when the muscles are loose and still a bit warm from the workout. Never stretch a cold muscle!

In the winter time when it is cold, most of our session is spent at the walk, warming up and cooling down, with shorter sessions of jog and lope in-between.

It’s a good idea to keep a journal of the work you do with your horse to keep you on track and also to track the changes in your horse.

Make each ride count, and remember that even slow work can build muscle for your horse.

Lisa Wieben is a Level 2 Centered Riding Instructor, EC Coach, and Irwin Insights Level 4 Master Certified Trainer. Specializing in Western and English Dressage, she coaches near Bowden/Olds, AB. Lisa is also a Hanna Somatic Instructor and Practitioner in Training, working with riders, in class or privately, to learn movement exercises that target specific muscle issues in the body brought on by stress, injuries, surgeries, and overuse. A balanced rider equals a balanced horse. Her website is www.mountainviewtrainingstables.com.

Birgit Stutz is an Irwin Insights Level 4 Master Certified Trainer and offers horse training, lessons (English and Western), clinics, mentorship programs, horsemanship courses, workshops, short courses and demonstrations on various topics, and working student programs at Falling Star Ranch Academy of Foundational Horsemanship in Dunster, BC. Birgit’s passion is to help humans have a better relationship with their horses through understanding of equine psychology, body language, biomechanics, as well as fundamental riding skills. Her website is www. fallingstarranch.ca.

(See their listings in the Business Services Section under TRAINERS)

March 2018

SADDLEUP.CA • 15

Horsemanship in

Brazil

There is a breed of horse called Lusitano. Many people have heard about them but many have not.

According to the archives, they are said to be one of the oldest breeds on the planet.

T

he horses were in Portugal and Spain, ridden only by nobility and used for wars. In between the wars they would use them for bull fighting to keep them fit and ready in case another war broke out. During one of the wars, the breeding stock was in danger of being killed by the enemy so the owners made a deal to bring many to Brazil for safety. An agreement was made with some of the ranchers boarding the horses to keep some of them as trade for their protection.

As the story goes, some other Lusitanos “got away” or “went missing” when the owners came back for their horses. As a result, Brazil is home to many Lusitanos. The largest Lusitano ranch is in Brazil, with 600 head of horses.

I had the pleasure of riding about 100 different Lusitanos in Brazil at various ranches. My first trip was about 10 years ago and I have been going back ever since. This November, ten of us will be heading back to enjoy the beauty of Brazil and the magnificent Lusitanos and the friendly people.

On my first visit, I toured five Lusitano ranches and rode as many horses at each ranch as I could. The ranches offered amazing hospitality, hot appetizers, drinks and music. Each afternoon, we were at a different, absolutely amazing ranch. The horses were all washed, braided and polished to a shine. The trainers would demonstrate the horses then ask if anyone would like to ride one. I don’t think I ever said no; I rode as many as I could.

My eyes were once again opened to horses and the horse world. I had never sat on horses with such natural talent and athleticism and I have never witnessed, before or since, such fancy and beautiful ranches.

I’ve told many people over the years that I could never have imagined, no matter how far I stretched it, ranches as fancy as the ones I experienced.

The ease with which the horses floated around the arenas, and the splendour and magnificence of the ranches were a perfect match for each other. Some ranches had chandeliers, some had waterfalls, fountains and swimming pools, some had manmade caves and creeks, and all their pasture fence lines lit up at night.

The trainers and handlers of the horses were dressed in their best clothes and not a speck of hay, straw or dirt on them. The horses were equally as clean and groomed. They were very proud of their jobs, their horses, their ranches. The sidewalks, roads, stalls, lawns, and everything were kept neat and tidy. Some of the stalls or buildings the horses lived in were three stories high and looked like homes.

The horses at the ranches were thin by Canadian standards, but I never saw one horse that looked lame or off in any way. In my opinion, our Canadian horses might be packing too much weight and this could be why I see so many of them a bit off.

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By Glenn Stewart

SADDLEUP.CA

The reason I was invited to go to Brazil was to do a colt starting demonstration for the Lusitano breeders. I’m sure I learned more from them and their horses than I was able to teach them. One of the most interesting things I learned was that the horses had been taught incredible shoulder movements. At first, I wasn’t sure what was happening when the horse’s shoulder jumped to the right and I would end up with a left lead. By accident, I would hit a button and get a lead change. After realizing what was happening, I saw for the first time how much movement shoulders could have. When I got back home I went to work and got all my horses moving their shoulders much better. Lusitanos by genetics are very elevated in their movements and cantering on the spot is quite easy for them. After riding horse after horse and feeling how elevated they were, I tried to access as much of that in my Quarter Horses as I could.

I was told a long time ago by a wise man to take care of my horsemanship and it would take care of me. I wasn’t exactly sure what he meant at the time, but I think I know now. The adventures, opportunities, destinations and sights I’ve experienced over the years have been a direct result of staying focused on what I’m passionate about -- working to become a “horseman.” I was able to do things I didn’t realize were possible.

By the time you read this, I will have been to Brazil and back again with more adventures and learning experiences. I don’t know what is to come, but I look forward to it with much enthusiasm.

On January 20, another group of us will be headed to Costa Rica for a horseback holiday on the beaches. In May, I will be in Austria enjoying that amazing country. Then at the end of July, another group is headed into the mountains for our annual “High and Wild” trip. Another trip to Brazil is also planned for November 2018!

Whatever your passion is, do it the best you can and you never know where you will find yourself.

Glenn Stewart travels internationally conducting clinics and horsemanship demonstrations. The 2018 clinic season will include Austria, Costa Rica, Brazil, United States and throughout Canada. He will be presenting at The Mane Event in Red Deer and The Mane Event in Chilliwack. Glenn offers year-round Horsemanship Courses at his home base in Fort St. John. The Horse Ranch is currently accepting bookings for Front Row Seating, Summer Courses, High and Wild, and Brazil 2018. For additional information, call 1-877-728-8987, or visit the website at www. thehorseranch.com.

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

Canadian Society For The Andalusian Horse Submitted by Colleen Pedrotti

2

018 brings a fresh new year so we’d like to take this opportunity to introduce ourselves to Saddle Up readers! We are the newly founded “Canadian Society for the Andalusian Horse” (CSAH) and we are a federally incorporated not-for-profit breed welfare advocate for Andalusian (Spanish and/or Portuguese), Pura Raza Espanola (PRE), and Puro Sangue Lusitano (PSL) horses in Canada.

So what exactly does CSAH do?

Rescue CSAH will work closely with law enforcement agencies, humane societies, and individuals throughout Canada in the emergency placement of Andalusian horses in distress.

Adoption CSAH will seek out knowledgeable forever homes for each and every horse in our custody – and care for them for as long as it takes to find that home.

Surrender CSAH will accept Andalusian horses that are surrendered to us for any reason and care for them while they await re-homing through our adoption program.

Sanctuary CSAH will offer refuge to Andalusians that are unwanted, ill or elderly. CSAH believes these horses (and all horses) deserve to live out their lives in dignity and in a kind, humane environment where they are cared for and valued.

Advocacy CSAH will speak for those who cannot. CSAH will advocate for good horse stewardship, humane training methods, and ethical breeding practices. CSAH will also promote the breed’s importance, both culturally and historically, and their enormous contributions to the majority of today’s horse breeds.

Before you think that an organization like this is not needed for these rare and valued horses, think again. Bad situations happen to all breeds – no matter their market value. CSAH is 100% funded by public donations - we have obtained charitable status from the federal government so your donations are also tax deductible! We have already started fundraising to our PayPal account via our website (www.canadianandalusian.org), to our crowdfunding account at Fundrazr.com (https://fundrazr. com/a1JWzf ), and through e-transfers to our email address (canadianandalusianhorse@gmail.com). Any funds collected will allow us to operate and be able to action horses in need right away. Thank you in advance for your generosity!

Please like our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/ CanadianAndalusian, check out our website (as above), or email us (as above) with any questions, information, or comments you may have.

Come join us as we roll up our sleeves and get to work as advocates for the welfare of the Andalusian horse in Canada!

Follow our Journey to the World Equestrian Games

By Korynn Weber

W

e are members of West Coast Vaulters, a team of extremely dedicated equestrian vaulters from across British Columbia and Alberta who travel to train together in Parksville BC.

Equestrian vaulting is a unique discipline that combines dance and gymnastics on the back of a cantering horse. In the team division there are up to three vaulters on the horse at once, each of whom play a specific role in order to accomplish high flying lifts and other movements.

The West Coast Vaulters’ team earned the opportunity to compete at the World Championships in 2016, and is now aiming to qualify to represent Canada at the 2018 World Equestrian Games in Tryon, North Carolina.

In order to qualify we will be competing in selection trials in Washington, Oregon, California, Colorado, British Columbia and Alberta throughout early 2018. We are extremely excited to have the opportunity to train and compete across the continent.

If you’re interested in learning more about our team members, horses, journey and sponsorship opportunities, please check out our website www.wcvjourney.weebly.com or email us at westcoastvaulters@gmail.com.

March 2018

SADDLEUP.CA • 17

Canadian Cutter

Wins

at Fort Worth!

Photos courtesy of Hart Photos

“Rocky Davis” wins at NCHA Futurity in December 2017

Rocky and Redneck Creyzy

R

ocky Davis of Valleyview, Alberta scored 216.5 points riding Redneck Creyzy on December 6th to win the NCHA Futurity Unlimited Amateur semi-finals in Fort Worth.

Showing Redneck Creyzy, as the next-tolast rider on Friday, December 8, in the NCHA Futurity Unlimited Amateur Finals, Rocky posted 219.5 points for the Championship win. The pair also showed in the Limited Non-Pro Finals on December 4th.

Saddle Up contacted Rocky about his ‘wins’ and showing in general.

Was this your first time competing at the NCHA Futurity?

No, I first rode at the Futurity in 2013. I made the Amateur Finals on Nitarey Cine. In 2014 I made the Amateur and Unlimited Amateur Finals on Cats Lil Peptolena.

In 2017 I made the Limited Non Pro and the Unlimited Amateur Finals on Redneck Creyzy (Dual Rey X High Brow Cat mare). We won the Unlimited Amateur class as well as the Senior Division, Gelding Division and the Cutting Purse Incentive classes for a total winning of $49,400.

Do you have a coach or trainer that helped get you there?

Salvador Cabral at Jacksboro, Texas is my trainer there and has been since I started showing in 2013. I also ride with Glen Beveridge in Valleyview, and I spent one summer with Will Nuttal in Montana.

When did you start cutting or competing?

In 2000 my family and I started competing in Team Cattle Penning and I started showing cutting horses in 2005. In 2012 I wasn’t happy with my progress showing and decided to try Texas to get in more riding and showing to learn and improve. It wasn’t until the 2017 season that all the practice and instruction started coming together with some consistency. Thanks to the many people who contributed through all the years. We got little pieces from you all.

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What are your goals for 2018?

We will be showing ‘Creyzy’ in the Derby Shows in 2018 and his sister, which we just purchased in the 2018 Futurity. My trainer, Salvador Cabral, will show in the Open Class, and I will be showing in Non Pro and Amateur classes.

What is the funniest thing that ever happened to you with horses, that still brings a chuckle today?

Well my humorous moment was… I went to ride with Will Nuttal in Montana to get some instruction. On the second morning there I’m loping horses for him and he comes over to talk. He had a hard time getting started. He said, “I don’t want to be rude or demeaning or make you mad, but I don’t know how you can show a cutting horse - you can’t even lope a horse in a decent circle.” His discomfort was hilarious and I was totally relieved and happy. I had decided a year previous that my showing inconsistencies were caused by my terrible riding form. I just hadn’t been able to find anyone who agreed with me. Will was so relieved when I was laughing so hard at his discomfort.

By Bruce A. Roy, www.wrdha.com

Ryan Day Flash’s Jordan, Alberta’s $50,000 Percheron Sire alifax, the French-bred stallion was purchased by George Lane for the Bar U Ranch at Longview, at Winnipeg’s 1909 Industrial Exhibition, where he was Supreme Champion over all breeds. Lane considered Halifax the best sire ever stood at the Bar U, the world’s largest Percheron breeding operation ever.

In 1920, the Alberta Government purchased Job, a French import, that was the Reserve Grand Champion Stallion at Chicago’s International Livestock Exposition, for $8,000.

This 2400-lb sire stood for public service across Alberta for over twenty years. He did much for the Percheron breed in the province.

A daughter, Princeton Carmen, bred by H.R.H. Edward, Prince of Wales, at the E.P. Ranch, Longview, was shipped to England.

Perlaet, a son of Laet, America’s celebrated sire, was purchased by nine farmers from Hussar, at Chicago’s 1925 International Livestock Exposition. They wanted a superior breeding horse in their district. Until his death in 1932, this magnificent 2180-lb stallion bred a hundred mares each spring. His offspring included Starlight Laget, Champion Canadian Bred Stallion at Chicago’s 1933 International Livestock Exposition for Quebec’s National Breweries, and Ebony Rose, the honourladen wheel mare that Greenway and Clark of Acme exhibited for years across Western Canada.

During World War II, the McIntyre Ranch at Lethbridge brought Milaet, another Laet son, to Alberta. This honour-laden sire also bred with considerable success.

In the 1950’s, Agriculture Canada stationed two exceptional Percheron stallions at the Federal Experimental Farm in Lacombe. The New York-bred sire was followed by Riverbend Monkoncarlaet, a

Manitoba-bred sire. Both stallions bred with inordinate success. Their Alberta-bred offspring topped Canada’s Royal Agricultural Winter Fair year after year. Today, Justamere Showtime, a Riverbend Monkoncarlaet son, is considered the architect of North America’s modern Percheron horse. His countless descendants can be found in nine Canadian provinces, throughout the USA, in Australia and in the UK. Six Percheron breeders in Alberta

and British Columbia, known as the “Six Pack,” purchased the Ontario-bred colt, Ryan Day Flash’s Jordan, that was Reserve Grand Champion Stallion at Toronto’s Royal Agricultural Winter Fair, three years ago. A superb athlete, this heads-up horse, with bottoms, bone and body, is capturing breeder interest across North America. To date, his exciting offspring suggests he will be yet another of Alberta’s celebrated Percheron sires.

Wild Rose dRaft

HoRse sale

Friday, May 4 and Saturday, May 5, 2018 in the Cow PalaCe at the FairgroundS, oldS, aB. Friday, May 4 2:00 p.m. Preview of the Driving/Sale Horses 3:30 p.m. Tack Auction begins 5:00 p.m. Social & Supper begins 6:30 p.m. Auction sale resumes

Saturday, May 5 8:30 a.m. Tack & Harness Sale continue 10:30 a.m. Draft Horse Sale begins followed by Harness & Equipment

Invites Consignments of Horse Drawn Equipment, Harness, Tack, Shoes, etc; Purebred, Crossbred & Grade Draft Horses; Draft Mules & Mammoth Jacks For InFormatIon ContaCt: Barb Stephenson Box 96, turner Valley, aB t0L 2a0 403-933-5765 (8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.) or visit: www.wrdha.com Fred Mcdiarmid 403-575-2181

additional ContaCtS: Bob lewis 403-556-7589 March 2018

david Carson 519-291-2049 SADDLEUP.CA • 19

By Vicki McKinnon

Being Congruent

W

hen I go out to the horse corral to either get one of my horses to go for a ride or to just go out and spend time with them, I try to remember to stop at the gate and run a bit of a check on myself before I enter their space. How do I really feel, both physically and emotionally? Am I grounded and fully present? These few moments cause me to take a moment to assess my status and be honest with myself. In the world of Equine Facilitated Learning, we refer to this as being congruent. It means that we do not wear a mask in an effort to hide how we really feel.

We choose to honestly present ourselves just as we are and be there in the present moment. In this way, I make myself a more inviting, trustworthy and safe person for my horses to accept as a partner/leader.

We have all either heard about, or experienced ourselves, the frustration of going to get our horse from the field only to have him leave to go join his horse buddies. Why? This can often be traced back to being congruent, or in this case, not being congruent.

When we put on a happy face so that the world won’t see that we are really sad or mad or any emotion we consider to be negative, we are not only lying, we are also sending out very conflicting energies which our horses do not understand. They sense and react to the energy of our real emotion. So, if we have put on a happy face when we are unhappy, they become confused and might perceive us as unsafe to be with and choose to leave.

So, what do we do when our day has been less then wonderful and we want to spend time with our horses? Be honest. Actually, go out there just as you feel. I will often take a quiet moment inside the paddock to reflect on why I feel as I do and one or more of my horses will approach me. Then I might actually tell them how I am feeling. Now I am being congruent. This they can understand and choose to be with knowing with clarity the me they are getting.

Being congruent becomes vital while riding. Here, our horses are being flooded with the energy of whatever we might be feeling at the time because our bodies are not just close, but are actually in contact with each other. Ever been at a horse show and witnessed a number of unruly or spooky horses? There is a very good possibility that their riders are stressed or afraid about the class they are preparing for but the emotion they are choosing to

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display is frustration or anger. They are not being congruent. If they could acknowledge their fear instead of trying to hide it they would probably find that their horse would settle and be more able to be their willing partner.

My pursuit of a better relationship with my horses is like driving on a mountain road. There are lots of challenges and being safe on the road requires focus and presence, but the reward of the amazing scene around the next corner makes it worthwhile. My horses require honesty and presence and that requires courage and self awareness on my part. None of this is easy but, when I am honest with my herd on a bad day, the most amazing feeling is when all four of them surround me for a group hug. WOW!

About Vicki: I have enjoyed the company of my own horses for the past 36 years, but have loved horses and all animals for my entire life. Courses in Equine Facilitated Wellness have shown me the science behind what I have always known: the outside of a horse is good for the inside of a person. Their presence in my life provides me with a sanctuary from the insanity of the civilized world.

(See her listing in our Business Services section under EQUINE SERVICES)

Ranch bits

GJ Photography

Greenhow arena

F

or more than 100 years, O’Keefe Ranch was operated as a working cattle ranch. At the same time, horses have played a significant role in the Ranch’s history. In the early days, Aboriginal cowboys from the Okanagan Indian Band were hired to round up the cattle each year—they were well-known as the best horsemen in the Valley. In the 1890s, Cornelius O’Keefe won prizes for his draft horse teams, and ensured all of his children were taught to ride.

After running O’Keefe Ranch as an historic site for nearly a decade, Tierney O’Keefe regretted the fact that he’d never had the funds to invest into improving an old corral behind his family’s home. That dream was realized almost 20 years later, when Ranch Curator, Ken Mather began organizing an annual Cowboy Festival and Ranch Rodeo. Since O’Keefe Ranch was no longer a site of the annual cattle round-up, Mather devised an event that would pay tribute to the everyday working cowboy—and every August, the old corral atop the hill became a temporary arena.

In 2005, funds were made available to build a more temporary facility, and this became known as the Greenhow Arena (so named for Cornelius O’Keefe’s original business partners and neighbours, Thomas & Elizabeth Greenhow). The Greenhow Arena is used each year for barrel-racing and Pioneer Summer Kids Camp equine programs, but in 2018, it will also become available to other user groups.

In 2017, on our 150th Anniversary, the Greenhow Arena was used to provide Ranch related demonstrations at Family Fun Days events including a driving derby, working cow horse and cutting horse, and driving a 4-up of draft horses. Aside from special events or the occasional use, the Greenhow Arena most often sat empty.

The Ranch would love to see the Greenhow Arena bustling with horse activities. We are offering the facility for a small rental fee to clubs, groups, and clinicians, for achievement days, practice rounds, or competitions. There is plenty of parking, washrooms and a restaurant on site as well. The 130’ x 220’ arena is suitable for cattle penning, cutting, gymkhana events, and driving horses, with good sand footing. There are attached holding pens, chutes, one head gate, and a grandstand to seat plenty of spectators, and overnight options as well.

For more information or arena bookings, please contact Kelly at events@ okeeferanch.ca

Upcoming Event: April 5: AGM at O’Keefe Ranch – Your Voice Matters!

The O’Keefe Ranch is a registered not-for-profit and charitable organization, museum and historic site.

The O’Keefe Ranch is Open to Visitors May through September and for Seasonal Events

250-542-7868 | info@okeeferanch.ca 9380 Highway 97 N, Vernon BC

www.okeeferanch.ca March 2018

SADDLEUP.CA • 21

By Donna Hawkins Does your horse perform better in one direction than the other?

Consider the quality of movement, circling, turns and lateral maneuvers in formulating your answer.

Does your horse resist increasing stride length within a gait or to making an upward transition such as in a lope/canter departure?

Is your ride disrupted with any conflict behaviour(s) such as resistance, spooking, bucking or bolting?

I

f you answered “yes” to any of the above questions, your horse has been short-changed in terms of training. Succinctly stated, your training program has a “missing link.” Barring an injury, this link addresses the underlying cause of all of the above problems in all horses regardless of age, breed or discipline.

You, as the trainer, are the master of your training program. Yes, you! You are the trainer! A trainer is any person who interacts with a horse, regardless of the type of interaction. Therefore, by definition, the wide-eyed child admiring the horse from a distance, the caretaker feeding the horse in a stall or a field and the equestrian jumping the final fence at the Olympics are all trainers in their own right. There is no hierarchy!

Be an effective trainer! An effective trainer eliminates “missing links” by targeting the underlying cause, not the symptoms of all training problems. Your horse will reward your efforts with obedience and improved performance in a calm, relaxed manner.

Laterality The most common missing link in most training programs is managing laterality.

What is laterality? The answer to this question would fill an entire book. By comparison, this article is only “a drop in the bucket.” It is the first of a series of articles to be published in Saddle Up in 2018. By reading the series, you will have a cursory understanding of: • the concept of laterality, its cause and effects on performance, soundness and behavior • the benefits of managing laterality, the sooner the better • the characteristics of an optimally-balanced horse • the characteristics of correct training techniques • the common structural and functional patterns of laterality • the type of remedial exercises used to manage laterality Before you read more about laterality, you should know a bit about my background and philosophy.

I have served the horse industry for 30+ years as an EC-certified Western High Performance Coach, Western Master Course Conductor, 22 • March 2018

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Learning Facilitator and General Performance Judge.

I have facilitated a variety of clinics, trained various breeds of horses for competition and recreational riding and competed in general performance and reining. strong academic My background in anatomy and “I am who I am, and I do what I do, physiology has been a pillar because I care about the welfare of in understanding the science the horse.” of how the horse functions.

That, coupled with my career as a fitness instructor, high school and university teacher/lecturer and Equine Structural Alignment Practitioner helps me remain active in the horse industry.

I enjoy riding my horse, helping others find joy in balancing their horses, and savouring brussels sprouts with dry cottage cheese!

I am passionate about promoting effective training. I know that within the last ten years, a large body of evidence-based knowledge has inundated the horse industry. However, there is a huge gap between the availability of this information and what is being practiced in the field. Too often, harsh treatments are used in place of effective training methods that prioritize the horse’s welfare. The amount of horse wastage is atrocious. I believe that most of this wastage is a direct result of an unawareness of the effects of unchecked laterality and/or the lack of knowledge of how to manage laterality effectively.

Thus, this series of articles. If it entices even one person to commit to managing laterality, the series will have been worth writing.

Now, back to laterality…

Laterality is the term for natural crookedness. Equine laterality is defined as the inborn structural and functional asymmetry of left- and right-paired structures of the horse. These paired structures include bones, muscles, ligaments, tendons and organs such as the eyes and kidneys. All animals, the horse being no exception, display some degree of laterality, the scope of which ranges from mild to severe.

Most horses have severe laterality.

The effects of laterality are created by unequal muscle tension in the corresponding body parts. Muscles move bones. The stronger the muscle tension, the greater the directional pull on the bones. This directional pull can be seen in Figs. 1(a) and 1(b). Note the misalignment of the backbone and the differences in size and shape of the shoulders

and hindquarters in this 3-year old stallion. The side with the greater muscle tension in the thoracic area is concave (hollow). The other side is convex (bulged/stiff).

Before laterality treatment

Due to the structural differences between the two sides the horse moves differently in one direction than in the other. It prefers the use of one side over the other, thus the terms right- and left-forelimb dominance. A right-forelimb dominant horse is concave in the right thoracic area and convex in the left thoracic area. Conversely, a left forelimb dominant horse is concave in the left thoracic area and convex in the right thoracic area. Approximately 75% to 80% of the horses are right-forelimb dominant. This is comparable to the rightand left-hand dominance of the human. Is the horse shown in Fig. 1(a) left- or right-forelimb dominant? (Read the answer in the section, “The Results.”)

Why should you be concerned about laterality?

The answer to this question is two-fold: A. Laterality and balance are mutually exclusive. Balance, the universal law of nature, is the key to survival. As the essential criterion of all riding horses, it is the ultimate goal of all training programs. It optimizes performance, minimizes conflict behaviours and maximizes the productive longevity of your horse. How? By restoring the horse’s natural balance under saddle. Laterality, being a genetic component of all horses, is incurable. But it is manageable. Obviously, the only way to attain balance with all of its positive effects is to manage the laterality.

B. Laterality is progressive. If ignored or addressed incorrectly, it unleashes a path of increasing devastation. The steps of this pathway are as follows: 1. Tension creates the asymmetrical anomalies that first cause physical and functional imbalances in the horse’s body. The greater the number and severity of these anomalies, the greater the number and severity of imbalances and vice versa.

2. The imbalances initiate the first stage of inflammation termed subclinical inflammation. Pain, swelling and lameness are present but not yet obvious to most trainers. If laterality is managed appropriately at this stage, the horse becomes functionally balanced. If it is ignored or addressed incorrectly, the horse slides into step 3.

3. The intensity of the inflammation increases dramatically. The horse usually suffers an injury. This is the second stage of inflammation, the clinical inflammation stage. Pain, swelling and lameness are diagnosable. The horse is lame. Veterinarian techniques such as joint injections, ultrasound/shockwave therapy and surgery, may relieve the symptoms, but if laterality is ignored or addressed incorrectly, the lameness often re-occurs. During this stage correct management is helpful, but not as effective as it would have been had it been initiated in the first stage of sub-clinical inflammation.

4. As the detrimental effects of laterality escalate, a point of no return is reached. In most cases, the injury becomes a permanent

lameness. Unfortunately, at this point the options are limited. If the horse is not healthy enough to become a lawn ornament, the ultimate consequence of all, euthanasia, becomes a viable option.

The earlier laterality is addressed in the life of the horse, the better.

It becomes a problem when the horse is first ridden. At that point the natural balance of the horse is lost and the asymmetry becomes more apparent.

Laterality is not a major issue of a horse living in the wild because it does not carry the weight of a rider. It is only a minor problem in the horse trained slowly and systematically to address the laterality. The “Old Masters” exemplified this type of training in centuries past.

After laterality treatment

The Results

Figs. 2(a) and 2(b) are photos of the same horse shown in Figs.

1(a) and 1(b). They were taken after approximately 6 months of correct laterality management. Note the many postural improvements in lateral balance. If necessary, refer back to Figs. 1(a) and 1(b) to make the comparison. The lateral balance is so much better after the laterality management that this horse’s left-forelimb dominance is difficult to detect.

In conclusion, if you were to ride the horse shown in Figs. 1(a) and 1(b) you most likely would have answered “Yes” to the three questions posed at the beginning of this article. This horse is unbalanced. Its training program is missing a link. You certainly would have a better chance of answering “No” to the same questions if you were riding the horse in 2(a) and (b). Don’t you agree? Is managing laterality the missing link in your training program?

You are capable of obtaining results similar to those seen in this article. The techniques and methods that manage laterality are simple yet effective. However, they do take time, patience and guidance.

All you have to do is reach out for help and commit to the process.

Theory can be explained in an article but application is best taught in a hands-on situation.

Any questions or comments you have are welcomed. I am available for clinics.

(See her listing in the Business Services section under TRAINING) March 2018

SADDLEUP.CA • 23

Group at O’Keefe Ranch’s Church

By Greta Oakes and Blue

Rider is Drew, volunteer is Roger, and our “Blue” Evening trail ride

As I sludge, slip and slide through the morning chores, I take time to do a health-and-wellness survey of my herd of horses. Walking amongst them, offering my palm for them to lick, saying hello – I scratch and rub their necks and shoulders.

F

eeling complete despite the rigors of winter, the horses help to ground me. The ever-watchful eye of the boss-mare Blue follows my progress forward.

“Hi Blue.”

She turns her muzzle to me anticipating a shoulder scratch, her thick coat soft and warm from the morning sun. Blue attempts to return the favor by rubbing her nose against my heavy winter coat. Her shedding winter hair covers my hand.

My mind drifts to the coming start-up of NOTRA.

“Blue, in no time at all the snow will be gone. We will be able to get back into the swing of creating magic for our very special and loved riders.” I nuzzle my cheek in for a hug against her fluffy neck, closing my eyes, feeling her softly breathing, in and out.

NOTRA (North Okanagan Therapeutic Riding Association) is a nonprofit registered charity that was incorporated in 1984. NOTRA provides recreational horseback riding therapy to adults and children with special needs in the Okanagan/Shuswap. Spring and fall sessions are offered at Historic O’Keefe Ranch with weekly riding lessons Monday through Thursday that accommodate 80-90 riders.

Blue is a stout, ten-year-old Percheron/Quarter Horse cross and she works at NOTRA during the spring and fall sessions. Blue excels at her job. She’s strong, steady and one hundred percent sound. She accepts her duties with ease, offering a great freedom to NOTRA clients, some of whom require the use of wheelchairs, walkers or braces in their daily lives. Blue stands quietly at the ramp as the mechanical lift is used to transport her riders out of their chairs and onto her back. The speciallyadapted tack and equipment allows the clients a new freedom of movement. Blue and the other horses lift spirits as our riders sit tall, now above the rest of us.

NOTRA relies on volunteers to facilitate these lessons along with the instructors. The volunteers themselves are often moved as they assist during these amazing uplifting moments. Volunteers team up with our riders in classes where the riding arena is set up differently each week by the NOTRA instructors. Within a supportive and fun

24 • March 2018

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atmosphere with stretches, games and activities their riding skills progress with the volunteers, leading, side-walking or offering a hand for courage. To finish the lesson, the riders leave the arena and to everyone’s enjoyment, they ride around Vernon’s Historic O’Keefe Ranch. The combination of horses, riders, volunteers and staff with the breathtaking scenery and environment makes for deep, heartfelt experiences. The riders have been given the gift of a freedom of locomotion that encourages their muscle memory. Riding a horse, their minds have been uplifted and calmed, releasing their “feel-good hormones” and nourishing their eventual return to the routines of their daily lives.

As the riders dismount and give their horse a treat, we hear, “See ya later,” “I can’t wait until next week,” “Happy trails” and, my favourite, “I love you” usually directed to their horse.

Our volunteers put the horses away. It is not uncommon to witness a volunteer in a quiet moment with our horses grazing at the end of their leads. The peace and gratitude at having shared the time with these special riders is palpable.

Without local sponsorship, good horses and volunteers, this therapeutic program would not be able to be offered to the many from our community who have been able to participate. We invite you to join us in this amazing program, as a volunteer, a sponsor or with a horse that you feel would be suitable. To make this wonderful program happen, you can personally donate time as an on-site volunteer during our lessons or as a helper during fundraisers. Trades and businesses can lend support to our projects around the ranch or sponsor a horse and rider. Farriers, veterinarians and other equine professionals are also needed to sponsor horses. You will have the satisfaction of lending a hand to keep our herd of 10-15 horses happy and healthy, as well as a donation receipt.

Please call NOTRA’s program coordinator, Dani Goldenthal at 250549-0105; myself, Greta Oakes at 250-308-0557; or contact us through our website, www.notra.info, or via email at notra@telus.net.

Happy trails!

18th ANNUAL CONSTRUCTION FEATURE

Welcome to Saddle Up’s 18th annual Construction Feature

Whether you are looking to build a horse shelter, a barn, or an arena, we hope these next pages will help you with your decisions.

Thank you to everyone who has participated.

Phone: 250-838-6455 Email: pat@mtnview.ca March 2018

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18th ANNUAL CONSTRUCTION FEATURE

GEM Quality Homes e are located in the Okanagan Valley of British Columbia, operating as a general contractor and custom home builder with experience in all facets of construction. We are also pleased to have experience in the timeless art of timber frame construction.

Our portfolio includes custom building, ICF Foundation (Insulated Concrete Forms), renovations, as well as all types of agricultural buildings – barns, hay sheds, pole barns and more. Our projects range from small renovations to large custom-built projects.

GEM Quality Homes strives to provide the best possible finished product in a productive and efficient manner. We are also graduates of Okanagan University College as a Red Seal Journeyman Carpenter and Business Administrator.

In 2018 we were one of three builders in the Okanagan to be a Gold finalist at the Tommie Awards.

This showcase of our work was seen by hundreds of builders and tradespeople alike throughout the valley. As a result of our 35 years combined experience we provide professional service and quality construction.

Like our slogan says, “We love what we do and it shows in our work.”

Graham & Amanda Watson 250-306-1050

gemqualityhomes@gmail.com

We love what we do and it shows in our work!

From sprawling homes to hay barns to animal shelters, GEM Quality Homes can assist you with all your agricultural building needs and help you protect your livestock, equipment and hay.

www.gemqualityhomes.ca 26 • March 2018

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18th ANNUAL CONSTRUCTION FEATURE

Bradner Hill Farms Abbotsford BC e chose to build an Apex 80 fabric riding arena, provided

by SpanMaster Structures, enabling year-round training of show jumpers, and keeping horse and rider out of the inclement weather we have in the Fraser Valley. (See SpanMaster’s ad on page 3).

Fabric was a better choice for us (versus a steel or wood building) because it offered lots of natural light, could be built to any dimensions, and could be installed quickly. The structure measures 80’ wide x 198’ long with 18’ trusses. We had 8’ steel walls put up around the outside for added durability and to block the horse’s view from anything for a calmer, quieter environment (plus, it looks great!).

We added kickboards for the safety (riding) aspect.

We built the structure in an unused field, so a great deal of landscaping had to be done to level it as we live on a hill.

SpanMaster looked after the hiring of sub-contractors where needed, bringing in the necessary materials for the job; although we do use Fraser Valley Building Supplies (Wilway Lumber division) a great deal for our needs on the farm.

Now that the arena is completed, we will be partitioning off one end to allow space to store jumps, as well as a tractor, and offer a seating area for spectators. We will use portable fencing so we have the option of opening it up to its full size when we want to jump bigger courses.

Footing for the arena is a combination of fine sand and GGT, providing both stability for the horses to jump off of and cushioning for them to land on.

Saddle Up asks if this is a private or public facility?

This arena is available to the trainers and clients at “In Stride Equestrian Training” - owned and operated by Joelle Froese.

Congratulations to Bradner Hill Farms!

Western Canada’s Riding Ring Expert $POTVMUBUJPO t 3JOH %FTJHO t &RVFTUSJBO 3JEJOH 3JOHT t 1BEEPDLT 'FODJOH t %SBJOBHF t 8BUFS 'FBUVSFT Building Riding Rings builds every kind of riding ring, from personal home riding rings to equestrian center quality rings. Your ring will be dry and good to ride all year round! We also build, add on, or repair existing fencing and paddocks. Our experienced team will get your job done with complete confidence!

Email us today for an estimate: mrec@shaw.ca

Store: 1-800-496-7901 or 604-856-5144 28728 Fraser Highway, Abbotsford BC www.buildingsupplies.ca March 2018

SADDLEUP.CA • 27

18th ANNUAL CONSTRUCTION FEATURE Pre-Engineered Building Kits • No Welding • No Concrete Foundations

• C a l l No w f o r a C us t om Q u o te • M a i n te n a n c e -Fre e • Du r a ble

Easy Build Structures’ pre-engineered 2” x 3” galvanized steel framing system is designed for a simplified installation process with the durability to withstand our Canadian winters. All of our Highlander Barn structures are maintenance-free and have the combined resistance to fire, termites, mold, and rot with the strength of steel.

Our sales team will work with you to customize your Barn package to meet all your requirements. Easy Build supplies everything you need, ranging from overhead or sliding doors, windows, insulation options, sheeting and flashing colours, and hardware. Our barn widths range from 36’ - 54’ and the length can be as long as you need.

Do-it-yourself with our step-by-step installation manual, or take advantage of our full installation services throughout BC’s Lower Mainland.

Our engineer can supply stamped and sealed drawings, schedule B and C-B, and your site inspections to help assist you with any permitting processes in your municipality.

Surrey, BC • 604.589.4280 Toll Free: 1.888.589.4280

www.easybuildstructures.ca

Ready Mix Concrete Sand & Gravel Products Concrete Pumping Insulated Concrete Forms (ICF) Interlocking Concrete Blocks

(250) 546.3873 • (250) 542.3873 www.armconcrete.ca Serving the North Okanagan & Shuswap since 1995 28 • March 2018

SADDLEUP.CA

18th ANNUAL CONSTRUCTION FEATURE

all your building needs from small

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INTERIOR WHOLESALE FENCING Wire Fencing, Panels, Gates and More! www.interiorwholesalefencing.com

Armstrong, BC 1-888-546-3002 shepherdshardware.ca

interiorwholesalefencing@gmail.com

250-819-7296 or 250-819-8189 Pritchard, BC

22538 Fraser Highway, Langley, BC V2Z 2T8 Phone: 604.533.4447 Fax: 604.533.0451

www.countrylumber.ca

Lumber • Plywood • Pressure Treated • Fencing • Hardware Country Lumber has been servicing the B.C. Equestrian community for over 37 years. We are a proud supporter and promoter of the local horse clubs and events. Whether it’s fixing a fence or building a riding arena, Country Lumber has all your building needs. Visit our office and experience firsthand our competitive pricing plus the service and knowledge that has made Country Lumber well-known in the horse industry.

March 2018

SADDLEUP.CA • 29

18th ANNUAL CONSTRUCTION FEATURE

Whitemud Equine Learning Centre he Whitemud Equine Learning Centre Association has operated and managed the Whitemud Equine Centre in the heart of Edmonton’s river valley since 1999. We had been running our programs out of a 60-year-old former airplane hangar that was converted into a riding arena. The roof was tin and uninsulated. There was no running water. It was dark, gloomy, very cold in the winter and very hot in the summer. Classes and offices were located in a couple of ATCO trailers that were used when they were first brought onto the site in 1970. In 2014, the City of Edmonton from whom we lease the property, told us that the building was structurally unsound and needed to come down.

Why did you choose this type of building/structure versus another?

As we are a City-owned facility with a mandate to provide community based recreation programs, we were obligated to follow City of Edmonton policies regarding recreation facilities and construction in the river valley park system. The general contractor for the project was Atkinson Construction.

The primary structure is comprised of steel and concrete. The indoor riding arena measures 20 m x 60 m. We contacted Strathcona Ventures to provide the TravelRight footing in the arena. TravelRight was chosen because it is the closest thing you can get to outdoor turf inside, offering excellent traction, stability, and cushion. It is dust-free and requires little maintenance.

Parkland County, Alberta

780-963-3388

PROUD BUILDER OF THE WHITEMUD EQUINE LEARNING CENTRE

Stabling includes 16 (10’ x 10’) box stalls, 12 tie/grooming stalls, and 1 vet/farrier/wash stall. Stall fronts were provided by Hi-Hog Farm & Ranch Equipment, and mats from Strathcona Ventures. The barn floor is concrete with a centre trench drain.

The building also houses a kitchenette and classroom (seating 60), a spectator viewing area (seating 125), and standing room for another 45 people. There are public washrooms, 2 large tack rooms, a feed room, and a barn washroom.

The construction project included landscaping with a French drain system to take all of the run-off from the building. Some fencing was also included in the project – we used a combination of vinyl fencing and post & plank.

How much did this structure cost in total? (approximately)

The final project from planning to completion cost $6.5 million.

The City of Edmonton contributed $4 million and the Whitemud Equine Centre Association has a loan from the Edmonton Social Enterprise Fund for $2.5 million.

COMMERCIAL – INDUSTRIAL – AGRICULTURAL

www.atkinsonconstruction.ca 30 • March 2018

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The horse is a close-up of the pyrograph mural at the front entrance to our building. Every City facility in Edmonton must allocate one percent of construction costs to an art installation. The competition is managed by the Edmonton Arts Council. The mural depicts the river valley in four seasons and features a variety of wild and domestic animals that are found on our 48 acres. The artists are local, Darcy & Tanya Klimpe of Black Artifex.

18th ANNUAL CONSTRUCTION FEATURE

Old Meets New

This is a public recreation facility. WELCA is a non-profit organization and we lease the land and the facility from the City of Edmonton. WELCA provides easy access for anyone wishing to discover the joys of equine activities, and those who wish to rekindle their love for horses. Our centrally located services help young urban people develop self-confidence and self-esteem, and our horses are instrumental in providing therapeutic services for people living with mental health issues or diseases such as multiple sclerosis. We provide learning opportunities for students of all ages, whether it is veterinarian studies or learning an equine sport. And we help urbanites gain a better understanding of life on a horse farm, right in the heart of the city.

We are located at 12504 Fox Drive in Edmonton, Alberta. Visit our website www.welca.ca and/or check our Facebook page.

March 2018

SADDLEUP.CA • 31

TOP DOG! The Human-Canine Bond - The Connection Between You and Your Dog (Courtesy of www.thespruce.com)

Dogs have long been considered “man’s best friend.” It’s fair to say that they have certainly earned the title. The bond between humans and canines is unmistakable.

S

ince the domestication of the dog, people have been drawn to them (and they to us). Dogs have helped us in so many ways and expect little in return. They have hunted with us, kept vermin and pests away, served the military and police, assisted the disabled, and faithfully remained our loyal companions.

In turn, we care for them and provide them with a good quality of life. This is more than a fair trade. In fact, it is a downright bargain.

How did this bond become so strong? What can we do to preserve and strengthen it?

A Brief History of the Domesticated Dog The mysterious history of dogs has been revealed primarily through archaeological research. Evidence of prehistoric dog-like creatures shows us that the evolution of the dog can actually be traced back millions of years. The transition of some wolves into dogs probably began upwards of 100,000 years ago, but the domesticated dog likely dates back anywhere from 15,000 to 30,000 years. Some believe that humans set out to domesticate dogs by “breeding” for specific traits, though this may not actually be the case.

By nature, dogs are scavengers, so one theory suggests that dogs began to follow human hunters for food. Regardless of how it all started, the human-canine bond has blossomed and strengthened over time and will likely continue to grow.

What Dogs Do For Humans

Companionship is perhaps the most obvious thing that dogs give us, but this is only the beginning. Scientific evidence has proven that many health benefits come along with pet ownership. Our dogs help us relax, lower our blood pressure, keep us active and more. Dogs happily work for us, too.

Service dogs can assist those with mental or physical disabilities, work as search-and-rescue dogs, guard valuable property and protect us from harm by sniffing out threats and criminal activity. Even our companion dogs can be trained to proudly defend our homes and families.

What’s In It for the Dogs

The domesticated dog has evolved to be quite dependent upon humans. Though dogs can still often survive in the wild, they thrive with the care humans can provide. All we really need to do is look out for our 32 • March 2018

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dogs’ best interests. We must be responsible dog owners and fulfill their​ basic needs: food, shelter, health care and so on. We must train them so they understand their jobs (and they find joy in that). It is truly a win-win situation.

Great Ways to Bond With Your Dog The bond you have with your dog begins the moment he comes into your life and never stops growing. However, there are ways to reinforce the bond throughout your dog’s life.

Participation in activities with your dog is the best way to do this. It can be as simple as a walk, a game, or a training session. Here are some ideas for bonding time: Spend time with your dog. We tend to have such busy lives that our dogs can sometimes feel ignored. Talk to your dog. Look at your dog.

Pet your dog. Scratch behind his ears. Tell him what a good boy he is! Bring your dog with you when you travel. Include your dog in family activities. Have fun together indoors when the weather is bad.

Exercise together. Your dog needs exercise to stay healthy, and so do you. Why not combine the two? Look for ways to exercise together. It can be as simple as walking or running together. Or, for something a little different, you can try hiking or cycling. No matter what you choose, your dog will be glad to spend the time with you and you both will feel the health benefits of exercise.

Try a dog sport or two. Speaking of exercise, another great way to stay active with your dog is to get involved in a dog sport. Several dog sports, like agility, require the dog and handler to work closely together and communicate well to attain a goal. Think about which dog sports would best fit your dog’s personality (and yours). Then, find groups in your area.

You can start by taking a class and seeing how your dog likes the activity.

Work on dog training. You probably already know that training is essential for all dogs. You can and should train your dog on your own. In addition, taking a training class together can really reinforce the bond you share. The distractions in training class will challenge your dog to keep paying attention to you.

Play games. It can be so much fun just to let loose and play a few games.

Your dog would agree! Consider games like fetch, hide-and-seek, or tugo-war. Or, make up your own game! You can involve the whole family (kids too). The only rules are that you and your dog should be having fun and that everyone stays safe.

Become a therapy team. One of the kindest ways to bond with your dog and allow your dog to bond with others is to get involved with animalassisted therapy. If your dog is right for pet therapy, he can visit people in hospitals and nursing homes or help children read and learn.

Your dog may be able to help benefit the health and lift the spirits of people in

TOP DOG! need, all while having the time of his life.

Be present. No matter how you choose to spend time with your dog, let it be fun and not forced. It’s better to spend only five minutes together but be attentive and relaxed than to spend an hour together while feeling stressed and rushed.

Pet Central EVERYTHING PETS (Princeton BC) 250-295-7381 Quality Foods & Supplies for all your Pets! See us on Facebook. 6/18

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

Bonding with your dog strengthens and preserves your relationship. This is sure to benefit the health and wellbeing of both you and your dog.

Canine Capers Sponsored by

Top Dog! of the Month This is Mr. Bo Jangles. He is a Cocker Spaniel. He is very old.

We rescued him from a shelter.

He is really funny and cute. I love him sooooo much.

- Maddie Cook, Sparwood BC

This is Libby, our beautiful Golden.

Her favourite pastime is playing ball - if she can catch it on the first bounce she’s extremely pleased with herself. She is also the official greeter at home. Libby loves people and always runs to grab a toy to offer whoever comes, be it a meter reader or friends! She visits everyone in the neighborhood and is known on a first name basis!

- Kathy Tallen Stephen, Williams Lake BC

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

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3-4 ELECTRONIC COLLARS WORKSHOP w/Anne Everett, Merville BC, www.canuckdogs.com 4 UKI AGILITY TRIAL, Kamloops BC, www.canuckdogs.com 9-11 WINTER MADNESS AAC AGILITY TRIAL, Abbotsford BC, www.canuckdogs.com 10 GRCBC FIELDWORK WORKSHOP, Abbotsford BC, www.canuckdogs.com 11 CKC URBAN TRACKING TEST, Saanichton BC, www.canuckdogs.com 11 ALL STAR AGILITY FUN MATCH, Surrey BC, www.canuckdogs.com 11 SDS SANCTIONED NOSE WORK TRIAL, Langley BC, www.canuckdogs.com 16 UKI AGILITY TRIAL, Abbotsford BC, www.canuckdogs.com 17 BARN CLEAN-UP/INVENTORY, Kelowna BC (Dog Sport Centre), www.codac.ca 17 GRCA (RETRIEVER) CONFORMATION ASSESSMENT, Abbotsford BC, www.canuckdogs.com 17-18 CKC FIELD TRACKING TEST, Courtenay BC, www.canuckdogs.com 17-18 CKC OBEDIENCE TRIALS & RALLY, Abbotsford BC, www.canuckdogs.com 18 CANINE GOOD NEIGHBOUR TEST, Abbotsford BC, www.canuckdogs.com 23-25 AAC AGILITY TRIAL, Pitt Meadows BC, www.canuckdogs.com C-WAGS SCENT DETECTION TRIAL, Langley BC, www.canuckdogs.com 24 DOG O POGO FUN MATCH, Hidden Hills, Vernon BC, 25 www.dogopogoclub.wixsite.com 30-Apr 1 CKC OBEDIENCE TRIALS & RALLY, Chilliwack BC, www.canuckdogs.com 30-Apr 1 AAC AGILITY TRIAL, Abbotsford BC, www.canuckdogs.com NAFA TOURNAMENT, Abbotsford BC, www.flyball.org 31

april

Where is YOUR Top Dog?

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.

1 6-8 6-8 6-8 14-15

NAFA TOURNAMENT, Abbotsford BC, www.flyball.org AAC AGILITY TRIAL, Pitt Meadows BC, www.canuckdogs.com CKC AGILITY TRIALS, Kelowna BC, www.canuckdogs.com FIELD DOG TEST & FIELD TRIALS, Nanoose Bay BC, www.canuckdogs.com NAFA TOURNAMENT, Abbotsford BC, 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 March 2018

SADDLEUP.CA • 33

Horse Council BC - Notes from the Office On the Trails: About Horse Council BC’s Recreation Department

R

ecreational riding and driving is important to many thousands of Canadians, and these Canadians rely on public lands and trails to pursue the outdoor activities they love. Here in British Columbia, from day outings to multi-week pack trips, horsemen are making full use of our spectacular open spaces. Horse Council BC’s Recreation Department exists to support those riders and drivers with funding for trail improvement projects, current information and education, resource materials for loan or purchase, and by promoting recreational rider’s issues with government and other decision makers. Through our various programs, our goal is always to address recreational rider’s needs.

“Share the Trails”- themed annual workshops were launched by HCBC and are now produced in partnership with the Outdoor Recreation Council. Since 2011, the annual event has brought together hundreds of trail users from all around BC with the aim of promoting harmony on our province’s trails. In 2017, 45 members of the trails community, including riders, hikers, cyclists and motorized mode users convened in Penticton to discuss the issues facing rail trails in terms of shared use. From the day’s discussions a working group has formed, developing a set of proven principles that regional advisory groups can use to help the users in their areas make the most of their trails in ways that benefit all users.

Share the Trails 2018 planning is underway and promises to be another well-attended and successful workshop.

The BC Equestrian Trails Fund (BCETF) was established by Horse Council BC’s Recreation Department to offer financial support to member groups working on projects that will improve public trail use for all riders.

Since 2011, the Fund has disbursed over $175,000 in funding for projects,

including trail reconstruction, trailhead improvements, bridge construction, trail Nancy Carr-Hilton map kiosks and many more. The BCETF is made up of donations from individuals and corporations, plus funds allocated to it by HCBC’s Board of Directors.

The deadline for applications for BCETF funding in 2018 is April 1st.

Our Trails Database was updated in 2017 with a new look and enhanced functionality. Phase 2 planning, in partnership with Back Country Horsemen of BC (BCHBC), is underway now with the intent to add GPX (GPS Exchange Format) exportable files to each trail. This project depends on the GPS mapping assistance of our trail riding membership, and we’re exploring ways to assist riders in assisting us to create a data-rich trails database, useful not only as a map but in right-toride discussions with government and other influencers.

The Ride and Drive Rewards program is a rewards program primarily geared to the recreational rider or driver, although all hours in the saddle or in the driver’s seat count toward rewards, whether on the trails or in the arena. Milestones of 100 hours through 5000 hours are rewarded with great merchandise, badges and chevrons representing the levels the member has reached. It’s a fun and rewarding way to track your hours spent with your horse, and useful for training purposes too. With no age limits, the Ride and Drive program has members from 8 to 80!

The Recreation Department at Horse Council BC is working for you, the trail riders and drivers of BC. We’re always interested in your ideas!

Contact us at recreation@hcbc.ca.

All photos were submissions to HCBC’s Focus on Trails Photo Contest 2017.

Horse Council BC • How to Reach Us

Isobel Doyle

Annie Fercho

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

BC Competitive Trail Riding Association By Tammy Mercer-Gervais

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ave you ever wanted to try out Competitive Trail Riding (CTR) or learn more about this sport? The British Columbia Competitive Trail Riding Association (BCCTRA) kicks off the New Year with two ‘Introduction to Competitive Trail Riding’ workshops April 21st and 28th on Vancouver Island.

The one day workshops include classroom time to learn the scoring process, conditioning tips and basic ‘ins and outs’ of CTR. The second half is a mock ride with seasoned mentors to show participants ‘how to’ navigate the trail.

CTR is a timed event and should not be confused with endurance riding, which is essentially a race with the first horse over the finish line being the winner. With CTR, horse and rider head out and follow a premarked trail with the objective to complete the course as close to the optimum time as possible. Your horse’s physical condition, soundness, and overall health are judged by a veterinarian and are used as the 34 • March 2018

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basis for the scoring component of the event.

Horses of all ages and breeds can not only enjoy, but excel at this sport. CTR can be a family activity parents who compete may ride with their competing children. Family or friends who don’t want to compete can volunteer to help at the events. You can participate in a CTR with very little cost as this discipline does not require special equipment or regulated clothing, almost anything goes!

If you’d like to learn more about this exciting sport and/or register for one of the upcoming workshops, please go to our website www.bcctra.ca and check Photo by Monika Paterson out the events page.

CanTRA News Story and photos by Daphne Davey RAINBOW RIDERS RAISE IT UP

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ood news deserves to be shared. Great news deserves to be celebrated! So let’s wing a message of congratulations from all across the country to Rainbow Riders in St. John’s on the recent “grand unveil” of their spanking new therapeutic riding facility, rising like a phoenix from the inhibiting deficiencies of the old.

Rainbow Riders was co-founded in 1990 by the late Andrea Gillies with Margaret (Mugs) Tibbo, recreation specialist at the Janeway Rehabilitation Centre. Perhaps Rainbow Riders’ proudest achievement was to introduce Robyn Andrews to therapeutic riding, the first step on her way to representing Canada at the Paralympic Dressage Competition in Rio.

Over the years, Mugs Tibbo has referred many clients from the Janeway. But the program was unable to handle the demand without greatly improved facilities. An inspired “Raise It Up” campaign brought in support from every direction (and a guest visit from Princess Anne to turn the sod in 2016) and voilà! Rainbow Riders is back in business and ready to expand.

Now the barriers are down. The spacious complex is truly a dream come true. Fully wheelchair-accessible, it includes a horse barn with grooming stalls; wash stalls; tack room/ laundry; multipurpose room; office and kitchen; roomy washrooms; a huge arena; and nine nearby turn-out paddocks. Ask one young rider, strapped into a custom-designed electric wheelchair, what he thinks. For the very first time he was able to manoeuvre himself from one area of the building to another using only his joystick. Hallelujah!

Rainbow Riders received such enormous community support because the program could demonstrate the benefits physical, psychological, recreational, and competitive of therapeutic riding to children and adults with disabilities. Let the achievement of Rainbow Riders inspire all of us to “go for the gold” and make our own particular phoenix rise in our time of need.

These are Shank Lasters, from the family of Lasting Pincers. There are various strength, style and configurations of pincers when constructing cowboy boots. The tool possesses an aggressive jaw for holding on to leather as it is stretched across the mold for constructing a boot.

The spoon shape on the bottom handle slides across the arch of the boot mold. The stout construction of the Shank Lasters allows for sizeable pressure to be asserted.

You may have had some boots that were very tight across the instep or maybe some that fit too loose. This was probably due to the Bootmaker applying too much or not enough pressure with the Shank Lasters!

(Sorry, no correct guesses by press time)

Your donation to www.cantra.ca or CanadaHelps.org will make a difference to a child or adult with a disability.

The colourful exterior with the old arena at left.

This tool looks like a plier. But look closely at the jaws. The handles are for applying pressure, with a specific purpose. Developed in the late 1800’s, this hand-held tool has been continually modified for over 200 years. And you have at least one of the descendants in your home today!

READERS – What’s your guess?

Therapy pony Pickles in a wheelchair-accessible grooming stall, with detachable saddle rack.

Mugs Tibbo and Daphne Davey (representing CanTRA) with Paralympian Robyn Andrews.

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.

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BC Lower Mainland Pony Club By Joanie Thompson School is IN

As the days get colder, shorter and wetter, BCLM Pony Club kids head indoors to stay dry and benefit from our organization’s unique and comprehensive education program where they learn about riding theory, horse anatomy, safety, and other important topics to build a solid foundation of horsemanship knowledge.

Pony Club education is a culminative program – material taught in the early levels form building blocks for the more advanced concepts taught at higher levels. All concepts are taught using a variety of approaches to keep the learning fun and interesting. In addition to small classes, members are also taught in practical, hands-on environments such as barns or stables, as well as site visits to vet’s offices where they might get to experience (safely!) putting their hands in a horse’s mouth to learn about its teeth.

Our November Education Conference was a great success and featured presentations by Heath Purdy, an Eventing Technical Delegate who explained the rules which apply during a Horse Trials event, veterinarian Dr. Eric Martin who discussed conditioning and unsoundness, and Shelagh

Niblock, a nutritionist who reviewed the importance of feeding your horse a nutritionally balanced ration to meet their individual needs. April 14 is the scheduled date for our next conference, being held at the Southlands Riding Club; the conference will feature three streams based on pony club developmental levels, and will focus on various practical topics.

Later in the year, when conditions have dried out, additional practical Education Conferences are planned for both Island 22 in Chilliwack and a second location in Langley.

BCLM believes in providing the best educational opportunities for our members. The cost for members to attend these educational events is nominal. To learn more about this exciting program or to become involved as a member, please contact Tracy Carver 778-999-7400, email bclmponyclub@ gmail.com.

News from CRTWH By Fran Kerik

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am writing this the first week of February. It is minus 25, with a wicked west wind blowing all the new snowfall into drifts. Spring seems far, far away! Which makes it a great time to plan for spring and summer activities with our Walkers.

The Canadian Registry of the Tennessee Walking Horse will hold its 2018 Annual General Meeting on May 12 at Klondike Victory Farm west of Red Deer, Alberta. As in previous years, we will hold a clinic that same weekend of May 12-13, “DRESSAGE FUNDAMENTALS for EASY-GAITED HORSES” with Dianne Little of Calgary as our clinician. Dianne is passionate about both gaited horses and teaching, a wonderful combination!

We have also finalized plans to host “THE CANADIAN” Event. This will be the first one, a fun and innovative approach to horse activities, with our motto ENJOY – ENCOURAGE - EVALUATE. The Event will include in-hand and under-saddle classes, evaluative classes, fun classes and classes that are not typically seen as part of a traditional Walking Horse

show. The variety of classes offered will introduce both new and experienced TWH owners to activities and competition that Fran Kerik with her mare CSR Mornin’ s is beyond the usual Miracle traditions. We hope the evaluative aspect of some classes will encourage participants to explore new interests.

Reserve September 1-3 weekend and join us at the Almond Arena east of Ponoka, AB. (This event is open to all easy gaited breeds!)

Keep watching our Facebook page (www.facebook.com/crtwh) or website (www.crtwh.ca) for further details on The Event. Plan on attending – we look forward to seeing you there!

Kelowna Riding Club By Jenny Bouwmeester

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e are extremely excited for all the events happening at the club this year! Check out the KRC website for upcoming events.

Riders can purchase and renew their memberships online at the website. As well, we have many coaches from different backgrounds and disciplines that access the facility for teaching.

Lynda Ramsay is an Equine Canada Level 3 Eventing Coach, NCCP Hi Performance Coach, BHSI, holds an International Trainers Passport, EC Dressage Judge, and an SNR Event Jumper Judge. She offers lessons in dressage, show jumping, and cross country.

Dustin Drader specializes in coaching beginner to intermediate riders in both Western and English. He is a certified CanTRA therapeutic instructor, Horse Council BC General Performance Judge, and teaches 4-H. Dustin also has experience showing general performance for both English and Western.

Jenny Bouwmeester is an Equine Canada Western Instructor. She teaches both Western and English disciplines to beginner and intermediate riders. Her focus is on showing general performance and dressage. Jenny

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also has a background in therapeutic riding.

Leahona Rowland is an Equine Canada Competition Coach Specialist.

Her main focus is in three day eventing. She has successfully competed up to Advanced and CCI** in USA, UK, and Canada. Leahona offers coaching in dressage, show jumping, and eventing.

Lindsey Kern-Legroulx and Emma Bosma of Equi-Life Sport Horse team specialize in producing competitive Hunter Jumper horses and riders.

With an emphasis on correct and classical basics, these ladies take riders from their very first lessons to competing at national and international competitions.

Katinka and Sabastien Devrainne from K&S ELITE Sport Horses bring a wealth of knowledge from apprenticing and competing across North America and Europe. This couple strives to bring out the best in horse and rider by working on balance, communication, and timing. They coach all levels and ages in hunter, jumping, and equitation.

Come check out the coaches tab on the KRC website for more information, www.kelownaridingclub.com

The Back Country Horsemen of BC Submitted by the BCHBC Trails Committee

BCHBC Provincial Trails Committee (PTC) Project

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he BCHBC PTC has taken on a large and very important project. If you have ever tried to plan an extended trip with your horse that requires long-distance travel, overnight stays and rest stops, you will know how difficult and time consuming it is to find good information.

In some places of the province, even along major travel routes, there just aren’t any safe places to stop and/or unload for a rest, find water, restrooms… enter the PTC.

Below is our project outline: Part One The PTC is going to collect as much information about what is currently out there for rest stops, staging areas, equestrian trail networks, camping areas, rodeo grounds, etc., as we can. We will reach out to our own members as well as other equestrian users, BC Parks, RSTBC (Recreation Sites and Trails BC), regional districts, municipalities and private owners, for location information about every and any place that will accommodate travelling horse people.

The Committee has developed five core attributes to collect: 1. Name and who owns/manages the land 2. Location (preferably GPS coordinates) and description (rest stop, staging area, campsite, or trail network) 3. Terrain (this is mostly for trail networks; is it flat, mountainous, dry, wet, sandy, rocky or combined) 4. User groups allowed 5. Length and degree of difficulty

Our plan is to plot these on a BC map and try to determine where infrastructure is needed or perhaps just needs improvements. From this, we hope projects can be identified, partnerships developed, funding provided and volunteers found to help the projects become a reality.

useable without cell reception. The map will show a marker of where you are on the downloaded trail map by using the phone’s GPS to find your location. Many of you will be familiar with phone app called Trail Forks; it is the same idea.

Part Three

Once BCHBC has locations plotted, in partnership with HCBC, we will try to populate the HCBC Trails Database with relevant information on each. This is also where BCHBC members and any other equestrians can help us gather information about things like: are there washrooms, water for people and horses, corrals, cabins, maps of trails, etc. If we can provide pictures and videos, we will.

If you have any information on Part One, Two or Three of this farreaching project, please send it to either or both: trailscommittee@bchorsemen.org or recreation@hcbc.ca.

Can you imagine what an incredible tool this will be! Sending in this information is a small way you can give back to the equestrian community and set yourself apart as a valuable volunteer. Every path has some puddles, but the PTC is pretty sure we can find a way to deal with them.

The bottom line is that everyone will win!

Part Two

At the same time, Horse Council BC’s Recreation Department is working on improving the Trails Database. One improvement they are hoping for is geo-referenced maps for equestrian trails that can be downloaded to your smart phone. Once downloaded onto your phone, these maps would be

Back Country Horsemen Provincial Executive • http://bchorsemen.org

President: Brian Wallace, president@bchorsemen.org, 250-569-2324 • Vice President: Mary Huntington, rivergals@telus.net, 250-577-3555 Vice President: Lisa Galanov, lisa@owspower.ca, 250-672-0099 • Vice President: Catherine Davidson, catherinedavidson@telus.net, 250-337-4085 Secretary: Rose Schroeder, milkmaid@shaw.ca, 604-854-1245 • Treasurer: Karen Tanchak, klldt13@hotmail.com - 250-832-1596 Past President: Ybo Plante, farmgirlbc@gmail.com, 250-361-6290

Alberta Donkey and Mule Club By Marlene Quiring

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ur Annual General Meeting is happening this month on Sunday, March 25 at 1:30 p.m. at the Ponoka Drop-In Center, 5015-46 Avenue in Ponoka. We will have more events and information about our club activities at that time.

Tindell’s Horse and Mule School of California is coming back to Alberta this summer. Check out our website at www. albertadonkeyandmule.com for our list of clinics which are open to ALL breeds and start on June 26 with a Colt Starting Clinic at Eagle Hill Equine west of Olds, AB.

More information and registration for the clinics is also at www. jerrytindell.com. Auditing any and all clinics is once again FREE to everyone compliments of this master clinician!

Having loved and raised mules for many years and yet sometimes struggled with how to best handle these amazing hybrids, I have found Jerry Tindell’s training program to be very safe and most effective in working with any equines.

Keep safe and do your ground safety check every time before riding or driving. It’s important!

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Lower Mainland Quarter Horse Association By Mellissa Buckley Year End Awards, Bowling and Pizza Party

This year saw a new twist on our Banquet night to celebrate the 2017 season. For a change of pace we partied at ‘extreme bowling’ where everything is black lights, disco balls and music. This was followed up with a pizza party and awards presentations. Congratulations to all the class winners as well as All Arounds and Reserves, although we only listed the All Arounds here due to too many to list.

W/T Youth: Colten Buckley Level 1 Youth: Carmen Martin Youth: Ellie Gerbrandt W/T Amateur: Stephanie Schmidt Level 1 Amateur: Pia Petersen Amateur: Virginia Olafsen Open: Virginia Olafsen Winners enjoyed some great prizes, most of which came from our amazing sponsors! From Stampede Tack gift certificates to Frank Principe Spurs, to photography sessions and nylon sheets and so much more. Virginia was the grateful and lucky winner of a working saddle!

Keep in mind ANY BCQHA member in good standing can go for LMQHA year-end awards!

No Bling Spring Fling

Our first show of the season is fast approaching! It will be March 31st/April 1st at Thunderbird Show Park. Fuzzy horse? No worries! This show is meant to be an AQHA show but with a casual feel. Exhibitors are encouraged to leave their ‘bling’ at home and just show for the joy of competing. We have flat rates to “cap” your expenses or show “a la carte” if you so prefer. Harris Pads for high points and LMQHA gifts for reserves! 4 judges over only 2 days to save time off work and school! Go to the LMQHA page of BCQHA.com for entries.

Bazaar and Country Fair

Your Bazaar committee has been hard at work to bring this community event and essential fundraiser together for 2018. Very exciting is having AQHA World Champ trainer NANCY CAHILL as a clinician! She will be doing Trail and Horsemanship, and the cost is extremely reasonable! Contact Marilyn at marilyn.griffin@dlapiper. com to book a spot! At the submission of this article there were still a couple spots available. We also have many other clinicians, demos and more!!

We need your help for this event to run, so please come help the day of on March 11th and on set up day March 10th. Remember you can get most of your volunteer hours done here for year ends!

Lower Mainland Quarter Horse Association President: Mellissa Buckley, mellissa1@hotmail.com, 604-729-6616 Website: http://bcqha.com/index.php/lmqha Visit our Facebook page

Armstrong Enderby Riding Club By Lauri Meyers

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hifting into high gear, welcoming 2018, we look in our rear-view mirror and say goodbye to 2017.

What new adventures will we have in the 2018 Show Season?

Will we meet new horsey friends? Re-acquaint with old friends? Ride our new horse? Ride our old horse? Or will we ride at all?

At AERC we guarantee you will make new friends, re-acquaint will old friends and, most of all, have fun. Whether you are a rider, a watcher, or a horse holder, at AERC everyone is welcome; any style, any age and any ability.

2018 Dates have been booked - start time is 9:00 a.m. We have booked the Agriplex for the 2018 shows, indoors out of the elements.

April 22 / May 6 / June 3 / August 12 / September 23

Show Entry Fees are: Day Fee $40 or $5.00 per class. Pre-register for a discount on the Day Fee (Friday by 9 p.m.) at $35.00. Leadline is $5.00.

Stakes Classes will be $5.00 each class. Membership fees are $25.00 single person or $45.00 for family.

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AERC Cronies are gearing up for another 7 sessions of fun and laughter!

What are the AERC Cronies? We are a group of adult riders with different skill levels and different disciplines, but all love our equine partners. AERC Cronies all come together to learn new and exciting skills while trying different disciplines and adventures in a safe, fun and relaxing atmosphere. We wrap up the season with a camp-over/trail ride in September.

2018 Executive and Board of Directors President: Carmen Letawski Vice President & Treasurer: Lauri Meyers Secretary & Membership: Emily Stobbe Directors: Ursula McHugh, Cathy Glover, Allissa Korberg Schultz, Lisa Babij, Shari Gurney-Galbraith, Sheryl Terpsma.

BC Rodeo Association 2018 TENTATIVE BCRA SCHEDULE April 20-22 April 28-29 May 20-21 May 26-27 June 2-3 June 9-10 June 16-17 Jun 30-Jul 1 July 7-8 July 14-15 July 20-22 July 21-22 July 20-22 July 28-29 Aug 10-12 Aug 18-19 Aug 18-19 Aug 24-25 Aug 31 Sept 1-3

28th Annual Williams Lake Indoor Rodeo Vanderhoof Indoor Rodeo Keremeos Elks Rodeo Clinton May Ball Rodeo 71st Kispiox Valley Rodeo Princeton Rodeo Chetwynd Rodeo ***NEW*** Annual Bella Coola V.R.R. Rodeo Anahim Lake Stampede Pritchard Rodeo Quesnel Rodeo Interlakes Rodeo, Roe Lake Fort St John Rodeo Alkali Lake Rodeo Chilliwack Fall Fair & Rodeo Redstone Rodeo Prince George Rodeo Smithers Fall Fair & Rodeo Wildcard Rodeo ~ TBA BCRA Polaris Championship Finals, Barriere

OUR SPONSORS

SPONSORSHIP PACKAGES ARE AVAILABLE Check out our website www.rodeobc.com to view our sponsor package for partnership options or contact the BCRA office at 250.457.9997.

2018 RODEO PERSON OF THE YEAR AWARD WINNER: Laura James (on left), presented by Trish Kohorst, BCRA Vice President.

BC Rodeo Association, Box 71, 2393 Back Valley Road, Cache Creek BC, V0K 1H0 Phone: 250-457-9997 * Fax: 250-457-6265 * bcrodeoassn@gmail.com * www.rodeobc.com Winter Office Hours: Monday to Friday 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

2018/2019 BCRA Board of Directors President: Gord Puhallo 250-394-4034 or 250-267-9647 gdpuhallo@gmail.com Vice President: Trish Kohorst 250-613-2633, trishkohorst@gmail.com

Directors: Ty Lytton 250-396-7710 or 250-706-3580, tylytton@hotmail.com Shaylene Tucker 250-392-6296 or 250-320-0762, shaylenetucker@gmail.com Tim Terepocki 250-280-7653, ranchproperties@gmail.com Rhoda Petal 250-394-4349 or 250-267-5550, rpetal@yunesitin.ca Allison Everett 250-296-4778 or 250-305-0167, allison.everett@sd27.bc.ca Steve Lloyd 250-925-4669, wademcnolty@gmail.com Patti Gerhardi 250-961-9667, rockingp@hotmail.com Carl Hyde 250-963-9381 or 250-612-1237, c.rhyde@hotmail.com Aaron Palmer 250-851-6725, showtime_ap@hotmail.com Kelly Walls 250-267-8865, k.reay@hotmail.com

Barriere & District Riding Club has Big Plans for 2018! By Darcey Woods

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017 was a challenging year for many people in our area and our plans were halted by smoky conditions; with hundreds of animals receiving refuge from wildfires at our fair grounds. Many of our members spent a lot of time caring for them.

We have a very busy upcoming season! We are bringing back General Performance shows, along with continuing to offer Western Dressage. Our shows will all be HCBC Approved Events. We also have several Gymkhanas planned.

Make Barriere your destination May Long Weekend!! Equestrian FUN all weekend long! We have a General Performance Show including dressage classes on Saturday, followed by 2 days of Multi-Discipline Clinics with Lillian Evaniew-Phelan. A unique clinic - you choose what you wish to learn! Lillian will teach Western & English performance classes, dressage, reining, ranch horse... private or semi-private sessions. Sunday and Monday we will have Gymkhanas in a different arena, and a BCBRA/CBR barrel race as well. Socials on Saturday and Sunday evenings, this should be a great weekend! Dry camping,

washrooms and showers on site.

Stay tuned to the website www.barrieredistrictridingclub.com or our Facebook page for updates.

Confirmed dates: April 21 (Show - judge Ellen Smailes, Gymkhana) May 19-21 (Show - judge Lillian Evaniew-Phelan, Gymkhana, Clinic) June 23 (Lillian Evaniew-Phelan Clinic #2, Gymkhana) June 24 (Show – judge Ellen Smailes, 2nd day Clinic) July 21 (Lillian Evaniew-Phelan Clinic #3, Gymkhana) July 22 (Show - judge Joan Miller, 2nd day Clinic) September 15 (Gymkhana) September 16 (Show - judge Glenn Perran)

We kicked off the season with our first ever Family Fun Day – held in the North Thompson Agriplex on Family Day Feb 12. More on that next month. march 2018

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Clubs & Associations 28 Years of Celebrating Long Ears www.AlbertaDonkeyandMule.com

members from across Canada and the US 10/18

2/19

CANADIAN THERAPEUTIC RIDING ASSOCIATION 12/18

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.

ARABIAN HORSE ASSOC. (Region 17) Arabian Clubs in W. Canada. Rob Calnan, robert_ calnan@hotmail.com. Youth activities/Shows/Stallion Auction/Clinics, www.region17.com 3/19 armstrong enderby riding club Schooling Shows (Eng/West/Games), Armstrong Fairgrounds, April to Sept. www.armstrongenderbyridingclub.com 6/18

CHILLIWACK RIDING CLUB, Drill Team, Horse Shows (Heritage Qualifiers), Gymkhana, Trail Rides, Clinics, Open Ride, Socials, www.crchorse.ca 9/18 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

7/18

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

10/18

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.

BARRIERE & DISTRICT RIDING CLUB, www.barrieredistrictridingclub.com, bdrcwebinfo@gmail.com, Darcey Woods, President, 250-318-9975 3/19

Info on clinics and events at www.erabc.com

8/18 6/16

The Equine Foundation of Canada

BC CARRIAGE DRIVING SOCIETY, Pres: Tina Knott 250-743-9114, Pleasure, Combined, Recreation from Minis to Drafts, www.bccarriagedriving.com 3/19 BC COMPETITIVE TRAIL RIDERS ASSOC. www.bcctra.ca Pres: Tammy Mercer 250-335-3390, ridingforfreedomranch@shaw.ca 8/18

We are the first charitable organization devoted to equines to be registered by Revenue Canada.

Providing funds to veterinary students, veterinary colleges, rescue units and other worthwhile equine causes.

BC INTERIOR ARABIAN HORSE ASSOC. Pres: Wally Goertz 250-546-6004 7/18 asmarawg@telus.net, clinics, Recreational riding programs, Awards/Social Activ.

Contact us at www.equinefoundation.ca or call Bob Watson, President 403-378-4323

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BC INTERIOR MORGAN HORSE CLUB Sect’y: Debbie Miyashita 250-804-2928, miyashitadebbie@gmail.com, Meetings, Clinics, Trail Rides, Socials, www.bcimhc.com 2/19 BC LOWER MAINLAND PONY CLUB For horse lovers ages 6-25; Jumper, Dressage, Eventing, PPG & more! Tracy 778-999-7400, bclmponyclub@gmail.com 3/18 BC MINIATURE HORSE CLUB. All mini lovers welcome. President: Vicki Schulz 604-2403250, www.miniaturehorsesbc.com, Facebook BCMHC. Clinics & Fun Days 4/18 BC PAINT HORSE CLUB www.bcphc.com, Open Show & Competition Program, award sponsorships for local clubs, youth scholarship. cathyglover@telus.net 11/18 4/18

BC RODEO ASSOC., Box 71, Cache Creek, BC V0K 1H0, Office 250-457-9997, bcrodeoassn@gmail.com, www.rodeobc.com 9/18 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.bctpca.net

11/18

BURNABY HORSEMEN’S ASSOCIATION, (Burnaby BC), Self-Boarding Barns, Riding Rings, Trails, Clinics, Lessons, Open Houses, www.burnabyhorsemensassociation.com 4 /18

12/18

SADDLEUP.CA

Interior cutting horse association www.ichacutting.com New cutters always welcome. Lee Poncelet 250-938-2034 5/18 KAMLOOPS THERAPEUTIC RIDING ASSOC. 250-554-3811 www.ktra.ca Therapeutic Riding Lessons, Vaulting, Summer Camps, Boarding, Birthday Parties 3/18 KELOWNA RIDING CLUB, www.kelownaridingclub.com contact and event info.

Daily drop-in rates & facility rentals open to all. 3745 Gordon Dr, Kelowna, BC. 12/18 LANGLEY RIDERS SOCIETY, www.langleyriders.com. English/Western, Games, Jumping, Drill Team, Rodeo. 604-530-5981 7/18 LOWER MAINLAND QUARTER HORSE ASSOC. Pres: Mellissa Buckley, mellissa1@hotmail.com, http://bcqha.com/index.php/LMQHA 9/18 North OK therapeutic riding assoc. 250-549-0105 www.notra.info Providing therapeutic horseback riding for children and adults with disabilities5/18 OKANAGAN MINIATURE HORSE CLUB (Vernon) Shows, Clinics, Fun Days, In-hand/Driving. Sheila Sutton 250-859-0088. Join us on Facebook 6/18

BC WELSH PONY & COB ASSOC., www.facebook.com/bcwelshponyandcob, Newsletter & website to market Ponies/Cobs! Kathy 250-456-7462 6/18

40 • March 2018

6/18

100 Mile & District Outriders

7/18

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

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

PACIFIC ASSOC. OF THE ANDALUSIAN & LUSITANO HORSE (PAALH) www.paalh.com; paalhinfo@gmail.com; 250-694-3521 5/18

Clubs & Associations PEACHLAND RIDING CLUB, Pres: Kristy Forsyth. Visit www.peachlandridingclub. com for information about our Gymkhanas dates and other fun events! 3/19

SOUTH CENTRAL QUARTER HORSE ASSOC., Host of April Fuzzy Horse Show and September AQHA Circuit Show, http://bcqha.com/index.php/scqha 8/18

Vintage Riders Equestrian Club is a gathering together of adult riders within the Fraser Valley to explore and enjoy all forms of horsemanship.

8/18

For more info call 604-309-1003 or visit www.vintage-equestrian.ca

4/18

WEST COAST VAULTERS (Parksville BC) New members always welcome! We also travel to clinics.www.westcoastvaulters.com. Contact Debbie 250-954-9940 3/19 WESTERN CANADIAN REINING ASSOC. Amber 250-392-6402 wcrareining@gmail.com, www.wcra.info 7/18 5/18

PINE TREE RIDING CLUB (Barnhartvale/Kamloops), Visit www.pinetreeridingclub.com for info on lessons, gymkhanas, shows and clinics, or email pinetreeridingclub@gmail.com 3/19 Overnight it or Stay in Revelstoke BC

www.Selkirksaddleclub.ca

3/19

WILD ROSE DRAFT HORSE ASSOCIATION, www.wrdha.com. Barb Stephenson (Secretary) phone 403-933-5765 (8:00 am to 8:00 pm) 3/19

CLUBS... your listing could be here for a non-profit rate starting at $100 per year (for 12 issues); and includes a free link on our website.

What’s Happening? Let’s Go! 2018 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

march

(Saturdays) CATTLE SORTING CLINIC (1pm), Brandt Ranch, Pritchard BC,

Stan 250-320-7784 or Jeanette 250-319-6367 (Sundays) CATTLE SORTING (12 noon), Brandt Ranch, Pritchard BC, Stan 250-320-7784

or Jeanette 250-319-6367 3-5 JONATHAN FIELD HORSEMANSHIP, Course 1 Partnership, Livermore CA,

1-888-533-4353, www.jonathanfieldhorsemanship.net 11 LMQHA HORSEMENS BAZAAR, Thunderbird Show Park, Langley BC,

Booths & Demos contact Jenn, Meriam HorsemansBazaar@gmail.com 15-18 KAMLOOPS COWBOY FESTIVAL, Coast Kamloops Hotel, Kamloops BC,

1-888-763-2221, www.bcchs.com STEVE ROTHER HORSEMANSHIP CLINIC, Blackstock’s Arena, Chilliwack BC, 16-18

Karin 604-793-8147, karinsmith@shaw.ca AERC CRONIES Fun Group, 11-12:30 bring snack/lunch, Just 4 Horses Stables, 17

Armstrong BC, www.armstrongenderbyridingclub.com PHCBC, 1st Fun Ride/Mini Clinic, Armstrong Agriplex, Jan Sjodin at 18

4beat2@telus.net, PHCBC Facebook or www.phac.ca/bc/ NAT’L CWHBA AGM & CONFERENCE, Radisson Hotel, Saskatoon SK, 23-26 www.canadianwarmbloods.com AERC CRONIES Fun Group, 11-12:30 bring snack/lunch, Just 4 Horses Stables, 24

Armstrong BC, www.armstrongenderbyridingclub.com STRIDE WITH US AT AEF AGM, 3pm-9pm, Executive Royal Hotel, Leduc AB, 24

Ashley 403-253-4411, marketing@albertaequestrian.com EDMONTON, AB, Learn equine massage therapy – Certification Course, 24-30

Sidonia McIntyre, RMT, CEMT www.equinerehab.ca USED TACK SALE 10am-3pm, Armstrong Curling Club, Armstrong BC, 31

Nancy 250-546-9922 31-Apr 1 LMQHA ‘No Bling Spring Fling’, http://bcqha.com/index.php/lmqha

april

2-May11 KAMLOOPS, BC, 6 week Advanced Equine Massage Therapy Certification

Course, Sidonia McIntyre, RMT, CEMT www.equinerehab.ca 6-8 JONATHAN FIELD HORSEMANSHIP, Course 1 Partnership, Abbotsford BC,

1-888-533-4353, www.jonathanfieldhorsemanship.net 6-8 HOOF TRIMMING CLINIC, Pilot Butte SK, www.hoofgeeks.com/clinics

HCBC AGM, Holiday Inn Express, Langley BC, see website for more info and 7

Zone AGMs, www.bcbc.ca EQUINE HEALTH EDUCATION SEMINAR, University of Calgary Vet Medicine 7

Bldg., Calgary AB, www.albertahorseindustry.ca INTRO TO MOUNTAIN TRAIL CLINIC, Kamloops BC, Colleen Meyer 7-8 circlecreek@telus.net 8 BROOKSIDE SPRING SHOW, English & Western, Brookside Stables,

Salmon Arm BC, lynnhigginbotham@shaw.ca 8 PHCBC, 2nd Fun Ride/Mini Clinic, Armstrong Agriplex, Jan Sjodin at

4beat2@telus.net, PHCBC Facebook or www.phac.ca/bc/ 10-12 JONATHAN FIELD HORSEMANSHIP, Course 3, Abbotsford BC,

1-888-533-4353, www.jonathanfieldhorsemanship.net 13-15 HOOF TRIMMING CLINIC, Winnipeg MB, www.hoofgeeks.com/clinics 14–15 BCCHA BONANZA CUTTING, Circle Creek Ranch, Knutsford BC,

NCHA/CCHA/BCCHA Approved. Kathi 250-819-5974 or visit www.bccha.ca 14-15 PAUL DUFRESNE TFC CLINIC Foundation Horsemanship, Terrace BC

(Friday night demo 7pm), Nicole 250-631-9131,nichalbauer@gmail.com 14-15 INTRO TO MOUNTAIN TRAIL CLINIC, Kamloops BC, Colleen Meyer circlecreek@telus.net 15 LARGE ANIMAL EMERGENCY RESCUE (Awareness Level Training),

Olds College Campus, Olds AB, 1-800-661-6537, www.oldscollege.ca/ce 16-18 LARGE ANIMAL EMERGENCY RESCUE (Operations Level Training),

Olds College Campus, Olds AB, 1-800-661-6537, www.oldscollege.ca/ce 16-18 SCHOOL OF LEGERETE w/Melanie Bulmahn, Open Clinic, Chase BC, www.ForTheHorse.com 19-22 SCHOOL OF LEGERETE w/Melanie Bulmahn, Teacher’s Course, Chase BC, www.ForTheHorse.com 20-22 JONATHAN FIELD HORSEMANSHIP, Course 1 Partnership, Victoria BC,

1-888-533-4353, www.jonathanfieldhorsemanship.net 21 DRC 70TH BIRTHDAY PARTY, Delta Riding Club, Delta BC, deltaridingclub@gmail.com 21 BUCKERFIELD’S CLUB DAY & POULTRY SWAP, Salmon Arm BC,

Heather 250-832-8424 21 SIDA % DAY, Topline Stables, Salmon Arm BC, cekettlewell@gmail.com 21 BDRC SHOW & GYMKHANA, Barriere BC, www.barrieredistrictridingclub.com

Dates continued at www.saddleup.ca march 2018

SADDLEUP.CA • 41

Business Services ACCOMMODATIONS

EQUINE HEALTH

Ask for Chilliwack Heritage Park rate LSPECI East of Heritage Park at mall & restaurants

FREE Comfort Sunshine Breakfast 604-858-0636 or 1-800-228-5150 www.choicehotels.ca/cn235 • Chilliwack, BC 4/15

6/18

HOWARD JOHNSON INN, Red Deer, 403-343-8444. One minute from Westerner Park. www.hojoreddeer.com 11/18

arena maintenance

11/18

BEDDING, HOG FUEL, SHAVINGS David Beerstra Trucking, (Okanagan) 250-549-0324 Horse Shavings, Hog Fuel & Bark Mulch

7/18

2/19

WWW.REIMERSFARMSERVICE.COM (BC Interior) 1-855-737-0110 or 250-260-0110. Bulk & Bagged Shavings, 4x4x4 Totes, Sawdust, Bark Mulch

9/18

BOARDING/RETIREMENT/rehab Turning point ranch (Pritchard BC) 250-577-3526. Full care, recreational, rest, retirement or rhab. http://www.facebook.com/turningpointranchandapiary/ 3/18

DEAD STOCK REMOVAL THE BLUE GOOSE CATTLE CO. (Okanagan/Shuswap) 250-838-2250, Providing prompt dead stock removal service when the decision has to be made. 12/18

EQUINE SERVICES

EDUCATION 11/18

Vicki McKinnon & the Blind Bay Gang Your guides on a journey to the World According to Horses Introductory sessions 2-3 hours 2-3 day workshops for in-depth study Join us as we follow the hoofprints back home Vicki 250-675-2878, or vic3030@telus.net (Sorrento BC) 7/18

10/18

FACILITY RENTALS

EQUINE HEALTH ANIMADERM (Okanagan) Equine skin care specialist for scratches, sweet itch, mane & tale rubbing, insect bites. 100% NATURAL. www.animaderm-canada.com. Call 778-212-6555 4/18

DR. REEDS

10/18

Supplements For Horses

FARM SUPPLIES

www.DrReeds.com 2/19

EQUINE WELLNESS & DIGESTIVE SUPPORT (Interior BC & online) 250.368.2002 www.littleoasisequine.com Products and support for equine digestive health. 5/18

DEADline

5th of each month 42 • March 2018

SADDLEUP.CA

BEING PREPARED MAKES THE DIFFERENCE Pre-order your Baumalight generator now for delivery in 8 weeks and get an 8% discount for planning ahead.

1-866-820-7603 • baumalight.com

12/18

Business Services GUEST RANCHES

FARM SUPPLIES ARMSTRONG 1-250-546-9174

CHILLIWACK 1-877-847-3735

wholesale panels & gates | pet food | bagged feed

countrywestsupply.com

8/18

FARRIERS & SUPPLIES Bring your own horse or ride ours!

affordable ~ pet friendly ~ log cabins with private hot tubs

3/18

2018 SPECIAL: Stay 2 nights and receive an introductory guided trailride for FREE!

www.montanahillguestranch.com 250-593-9807 7/18

Harness manufacturing

5/18

4/18

Healing with horses

etreat Come for a massage or for a week-long healing retreat Individual healing plans designed by therapist with 30 years of experience.

7/18

Piri de Vries 250-706-2778 (Bridge Lake BC)

VALLEY FARRIER SERVICES, Bob Johnston 250-546-8254 Certified Journeyman serving North OK/Shuswap for 25 years 4/18

www.piri.ca

7/18

INSURANCE

FEED DEALERS ASHCROFT home building CENTRE (Ashcroft) 250-453-2281 Otter Co-op Dealer & Pet Foods. You can find us on Facebook 7/18

We protect what we love.

Your partner for Equine, Farm & Liability Insurance 7/18

3/18

Get coverage today l 1-800-670-1877 l agri@capri.ca l www.capri.ca

COUNTRY CORNER SUPPLIES (Summerland BC) 250-494-3063 Proform Dealer, Farm & Pet Food Supplies, Farm Gates & Fencing 8/18

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

4/18

Custom built and installed to your needs

Realtors

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

Sandy Chevallier

Alan Cossentine, Oliver, BC • 250-490-5662 alc@cffence.com • www.cffence.com

Listing & Selling Equine and Residential Properties in the Central Okanagan Cell: 250-718-2761 or Chevy@royallepage.ca

11/18

FERRIS FENCING

11/18

“PastureLine” 4mm : “No Wire” Polymer : Complete ElectricSystems HorseRail products : No-Climb & Diamond Mesh 30 years Serving the Horse Industry www.ferrisfencing.com / info@ferrisfencing.com / 1-800-665-3307

3/19

7/18

GUEST RANCHES WWW.APGUESTRANCH.COM (Princeton BC) 250-378-6520 Trail Rides, Lodging/Camping/B&B/Bed & Bales, Morgan Horses

RIBBONS & ROSETTES 5/18

OKANAGAN RIBBONS, 1-888-545-7647 The best source for all your event and award ribbons! www.ribbonsonline.net, ribbons@xplornet.com 8/18 march 2018

SADDLEUP.CA • 43

Business Services SADDLEMAKERS & REPAIRS

TRAINERS/coaches

CARIBOO SADDLERY (Williams Lake) Mark Denny 250-392-3735 Over 30 years of Custom Saddles and Leather Repairs 12/18 R&E SADDLE & TACK REPAIR LTD. (Aldergrove) 604-856-2350 4/18 Horse Blanket, Eng/West Tack Repairs, Custom Work, randesaddle@telus.net

LEE PONCELET TRAINING STABLEs (Vernon, BC) 250-938-2034 Starting Colts.

Training all levels. Specializing in Cutting/Cowhorse. www.lpperformancehorses.com 4/18

TACK/CLOTHING SHOPS DIAMOND H TACK INC. (Kelowna BC) 877-762-5631 English & Western Saddlery, Clothes, Farrier, Feed, Blanket & Leather Repairs 6/18

SHOP ONLINE NOW

FREE SHIPPING OVER $150 IN CANADA

2/19

Visit our Langley BC location 106-22575 Fraser Highway w w w. e q u e s t r i a n f a s h i o n o u t f i t t e r s . c o m

WWW.THETRADINGPOSTFEEDANDTACK.COM (Nanaimo) 250-245-2115 English/Western Tack & Apparel, Feeds & Hay, Portable Fencing 2/19

TRAILER REPairs PETERSEN TRAILERS LTD. (Langley) 604-533-4209 Service and Repairs. All makes. www.petersentrailers.ca 3/18 TRANS NATIONAL TRAILER INC. (Vernon) 250-308-8980 Fax: 250-542-5373 RV’s to Horse Trailers. Your Trailer Parts Superstore! 5/18

TRAILER SAles CUMMINGS TRAILER SALES & RENTALS (Abbotsford) 1-877-856-1988 Horse, Stock, Flatdeck, Utility, Dump, Cargo and Pre-owned, www.cummings.ca 8/18 KITT EQUIPMENT TRAILER SALES, (Chilliwack & Aldergrove), 1-877-823-7199, Horse ~ Stock ~ Utility ~ Dump ~ Flatdecks, Kittequipment.com 12/18

TOll free: 1-844-955-2445 or 780.955.2445

1915 SPARROW DRIVE, NISKU, ALBERTA

4/18

TRAINERS/coaches ALICIA HARPER of Hylee Training, EC Comp. Coach/Trainer. Specializing in Hunters available for training, lessons/clinics, www.hyleetraining.com 10/18 BIRGIT STUTZ, Irwin Insights Master Level 4 Cert. Trainer, www.fallingstarranch. ca, Training/lessons/clinics/student programs, Dunster BC, 250-968-6801 6/18 CHRISTA MIREMADI HORSEMANSHIP (Aldergrove) 604-856-2967 Training. 3/19 Problem Solving, Starting, Lessons, Clinics. www.horsemanshipfromtheheart.com

DA

WN

Western & Dressage Coach, Mountain Trail Course Designer.

Clinics/private sessions in mountain & standard trail, ground work, round corral, ponying, desensitizing, balanced riding on/off site.

Confidence building through patience & respect.

RSTER FEcoaching Join us at our indoor/outdoor trail course. training

Where Your Equine Adventure Begins

250-808-0738 (Kelowna BC) See Damarhe Training on FB

8/18 7/17

DONNA HAWKINS (Aldergrove BC) 604-856-0033 donnahawkins@shaw.ca Offering Educational Clinics on evidence-based practices 3/19 DRESSAGE WITH LIGHTNESS (Clinton BC), www.frenchclassicaldressage.ca Lessons, Clinics, Boarding, Training. Catherine Clinckemaillie 250-459-7772 7/18 6/18

International Clinician and Horseman 1-877-728-8987 www.thehorseranch.com JONATHAN FIELD HORSEMANSHIP - Inspired by Horses® www.JonathanField.net, 1-888-533-4353 7/18 44 • March 2018

SADDLEUP.CA

LISA WIEBEN (Bowden AB) www.mountainviewtrainingstables.com, Clinics, Training, Lessons, Centered Riding/Western & English Dressage 3/18 MARION WEISSKOPFF (Princeton BC) 250-295-4329, Clinics throughout BC, Classical & Cowboy Dressage, Mountain Trail & Driving, www.mwsporthorses.com 5/18 SANDY LANG HORSEMANSHIP (Abbotsford BC) 604-850-1243 Foundation Specialist, Natural Horsemanship, www.sandylang.ca 5/18 TRANQUILLEFARMS.COM (Okanagan) Lorraine Andres. Rehabilitation Centre, Liveblood.org, Blood Analysis (people/horses). All disciplines 250-999-5090 4/18

VETERINARIANS ACCORD VETERINARY SERVICES (Kamloops & area) 250-314-6566. Dr. Marlin Mason, Mobile Equine/Bovine Vet Services, 7/18 ANIMAL CARE HOSPITAL Williams Lake 250-392-5510 / Quesnel 250-747-3053 Drs. Magnowski, Scheidt, Thompson, Jordan, Meier, Ree 12/18 DAWSON CREEK VETERINARY CLINIC 250-782-1080. Equine Reproduction, Endoscopy, Ultrasound, Digital X-Ray and more. www.dcvet.ca 9/18 HERMEN GEERTSEMA EQUINE SERVICES “Striving for excellence in Veterinary care.” 604-857-5432 or 1-888-858-5432, www.geertsema.ca 7/18 INTERIOR VETERINARY HEALTH SERVICES (Okanagan) 250-769-4217, Mobile Equine, Brytann Youngberg DVM, VSMT, College of Animal Chiropractors 5/18 KAMLOOPS LARGE ANIMAL VET Clinic 250-374-1486 Drs Jennifer Jackson, Jason McGillivray, Colin Mikkelsen, Robert Mulligan, Heather Pedersen 3/19 OKANAGAN EQUINE VET, (Kelowna) 250-764-9888 Sheila McDonald DVM & Grant Scott DVM, Dipl., ACVS, Board Cert. Equine Surgeon. 9/18 PANORAMA VETERINARY, (Kelowna/Winfield) 250-861-1099 Drs. Alex Wales, Susan Wales and Jessica Wales 5/18 THREE VALLEYS VET SERVICES (BC’s Southern Interior) Dr. David Ward Full equipped equine/bovine mobile, 250-497-6127 or 250-809-8807 4/18

year-round listings starting at $ 250 per year!

My name is Ali and my horse is Bucky. He’s 20 years older than me and I’m 8! He is an Anglo-Arab. Our favourite thing to do is trotting in the pasture bareback!

- Ali, age 8, Sturgeon County, Alberta

Hi! My name is Brooke and my pony’s name is Arwen!

Arwen is only four years old but she is extremely mature! I belong to the Armstrong Pony Club and have learned a lot this past year!

- Brooke, age 9, Vernon, BC

What are you doing with your horse?

It’s your turn to tell us about YOU! BECAUSE IT’S ALL ABOUT 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 space availability basis. Email to nancyroman@saddleup.ca. Put in the subject line “KIDS”.

Stallions & Breeders Appaloosacentre.com 250-963-9779 Real Appaloosas for Today and the Future! 6/18 FAIRVIEW ARABIAN STUD (Okanagan Falls) 250-497-6127 SS: World Class Crabbet Bloodlines, www.fairviewarabianstud.com 4/18 Old Baldy Ranch (Dawson Creek) 250-843-7337 SS: Breeding AQHA/NFQH Grullo & Blue Roan, www. northernhorse.com/oldbaldy 12/18 ROPERFORMANCEHORSES.CA (Vanderhoof BC) 250-567-8685 SS: Breeding Quality AQHA & APHA Performance Horses 3/18 SUNSET VIEW RANCH (West Kelowna BC) 250707-7271. Top Performance AQHA/APHA bloodlines, Breeding & Sales. SS: Dunit Canadian Style 11/18 WILDWOOD RANCHES Reg’d Quarter Horses (OK Falls, BC) 250-497-8452 SS: Standing an own son of Frenchmans Guy. www.wildwoodranches.org 3/19

SVR ROYAL CHECKMATE 1996 AQHA Perlino Stallion 100% dilute colour guarantee. Proven producer of athletes with solid conformation, great minds & exceptional work ethic. Sire of 2012 PRc Barrel Saddle Series champion, money earning barrel & team roping offspring.

DUNIT CANADIAN STYLE 2004 AQHA Dun Stallion Grandson of Hollywood Dun It; NRHA. Hall of Fame & the first Million Dollar NRHA Sire. Out of foundation QH mare by Podoco, by the unprecedented Doc Bar, out of dam by Poco Bueno.

BANDITOS GOLD DIGGER 2000 AQHA Buckskin Stallion Dual Pep/Docs Oak/Old Tom Cat/Poco Bueno

All StAllIonS AQHA 5 PAnel genetIc teSteD n/n QUAlItY oFFSPRIng FoR SAle

Brytann Youngberg, DVM 250-769-4217 or e-mail sunsetviewranch@hotmail.ca West Kelowna, BC

5/18

5/18

march 2018

SADDLEUP.CA • 45

On The Market (Private Sale) Old Baldy Ranch

Check Out Our Blues!

2018 Foals will be available sired by:

Extraordinary horses that fulfill your dreams and last a lifetime.

Standing coloured foundation Morgan stallions.

Offspring for sale.

www.buttemorgans.com

3/18

Krystina Lynn Photography

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

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

12/18

FAMILY FRIENDLY OLD STYLE FOUNDATION MORGANS

12/18

The Peruvian Horse

The smoothest riding horse in the world!

For Pleasure, Trail, Show, Work...

Discover the versatile Peruvian Horse at PHAC.ca!

Peruvian Paso Horses Ringstead Ranch, one of Canada’s Largest breeders, now have locations in both Chase, BC and Cayley, AB.

To learn more about this beautiful & unique breed of horse, and for a complete Sales List, please visit our website.

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

4/18 3/17

5/18

www.ringsteadranch.com deb.cones@gmail.com 403-860-9763

7/18

Rural Roots - Real Estate

BREATHTAKING SPALLUMCHEEN RANCH Gorgeous ranch with a heritage style 6 bedroom, 2,530 sq. ft. house on 32 flat useable acres. Shop, hay shed, paddocks, outdoor riding arenas, rail fencing, fruit trees and excellent water. New in-door boiler furnace. Includes a second 1,600 sq. ft. as-new building currently used as an office/health clinic. This is a well-kept rare property in the heart of farm country, perfect for equestrians, home businesses and/or large families. Find peace and tranquility here in a beautiful park-like setting with incredible views.

3991 Hullcar Road, Armstrong BC $1,795,000 MLS ® 10141359 www.propertyguys.com ID# 92745 Info: 1-250-434-3057

46 • March 2018

SADDLEUP.CA

YOUR EQUESTRIAN DREAM COME TRUE! This rustic style rancher is situated on over 31 acres. Property features an impressive 255’ x 69’ indoor riding arena with 14 10’ x 12’ holding stalls and a farrier/groomer’s bay, spacious workshop, sauna house, chicken coops, hay storage, shaving shed, exerciser, 20’ x 60’Dressage arena, 16 small holding paddocks, 10 larger paddocks, and 3 pastures. Hardwood floors, tiles throughout with 3 wood/pellet stoves and sliding barn doors. Open concept living room to kitchen make entertaining company very enjoyable and personable. Riding arena has a small 2 floor apartment with viewing windows and laundry in unit for guests or ranch hands.

2404 Mabel Lake Road, Lumby BC $2,200,000 MLS ® 10142855 KARIN VASSBERG, REALTOR® 250-540-4879 Royal LePage Downtown Realty karinvassberg@viewhome4u.com 3/18 www.thevassbergteam.com

MAGNIFICENT MOUNTAIN & VALLEY VIEWS Two residences on this 22.09 acre property, each with their own fruit trees and gardens. Perfect for cattle, horses or any livestock lover. Featuring a 44’ x 80’ barn with 2 holding stalls and a 110’ x 220’ outdoor riding arena. Main house has 5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, games room, large family room, living room with floor to ceiling white quartz natural gas fireplace and dining room.

Master bedroom has a walkout to the deck where you can watch the local fireworks or enjoy a hot tub to relax in. Second residence has 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom and own yard area.

4240 Noble Road, Armstrong BC $1,650,000 MLS ® 10134250 KARIN VASSBERG, REALTOR® 250-540-4879 Royal LePage Downtown Realty karinvassberg@viewhome4u.com www.thevassbergteam.com 3/18

Shop & Swap!

CUMMINGS

.

00

7 3,

$1

TRAILER SALES AND RENTALS

29571 Fraser Hwy., Abbotsford, BC

604 856 1988 • 1 877 856 1988 www.cummings.ca

12/18

Leather & Stitches

Custom Made Chaps Any Style Saddle, Tack & Blanket Repairs Top Quality Australian Saddles The Leather Lady Sherri DeBoer • 250-838-0778 email: deboersherri2@gmail.com Hwy 97, Grindrod, BC Open Mon - Sat 9-6 pm 12/18 12/17

free IF IT’S FREE, WE PRINT FOR FREE!

Tack Sale TACK SALE, Saturday, March 31, Armstrong Curling Club at IPE Fairgrounds, 10 am – 3 pm. Free admission. Table Rentals available. Call Nancy 250-5469922 or email nancyroman@telus.net

HORSE BLANKET LAUNDRY & REPAIRS HORSE BLANKET & SADDLE PAD WASHING & Repairs. Clean used Blankets for sale. Town Centre Dry Cleaners, Town Centre Mall. 250-546-0104 (Armstrong BC) 3/18

NEW & USED TACK ENGLISH & WESTERN

~ Harness ~ Farrier Supplies ~ Horse/Pet Supplies & Feeds ~ Sure Crop Feed Dealer Deep Creek General Store

250-546-3955

3455 Pleasant Valley Rd., Armstrong www.deepcreekgeneralstore.com

HELPS BUILD A STRONG IMMUNE SYSTEM THE BEST REMEDY FOR PREVENTION WWW.ULTRA-KELP.COM • 1-888-357-0011

Ad deadline 5th of each month

Happy St. Patrick’s Day EQUESTRIAN CENTRE FOR LEASE Kelowna, BC

6/18

12/18

Large Indoor and Outdoor Arena 24 Stalls and Paddocks Available for April 2018 Also available 2 bedroom apartment (optional) Currently run as an Equestrian Centre offering full/self board, clinics, lessons and agility classes.

Contact: 250-717-5673 or 250-878-5102 Email: centralaircharters@telus.net

march 2018

SADDLEUP.CA • 47

48 • March 2018

SADDLEUP.CA