June 2023 Saddle Up! Magazine

39+ GORGEOUS ACRES!

HOLLY, MI (ROSE TWP.): VACANT LAND! 39+ acres with frontage on two roads! Gently rolling, currently used for hay Build your own home and horse farm. Located on corner of Rose Center Rd., and Buckhorn Lake Rd., just west of Milford Rd. Mature trees on perimeter for privacy. MLS# 20221033494.

LAND CONTRACT TERMS!

HORSE FARM: SALEM TWP. PLYMOUTH/ANN ARBOR, MI

HOME, VETERINARY CLINIC AND INDOOR ARENA ALL ON 27 ACRES!

Beautiful Cape Cod home with remodeled custom kitchen and bathrooms

Veterinary clinic. 27 acres with some hayelds. Indoor arena, stalls, run-in sheds, and pastures.

Offered at $1,400,000.

Contact KATHIE CROWLEY for details!

NEW – ONAWAY, MI: VACANT LAND! Cheboygan County, Waverly Twp. 20 acres of privacy not far from Black Lake. Call for details!

NEW – KALKASKA, MI: 10 great acres just off M-72. Nice 2200 sq. ft. ranch home, 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths. 30x56 garage with storage. 40x60 barn with 6 box stalls and 6 tie stalls. Offered at $379,900. Call Kathie for more details!

SADDLE UP! MAGAZINE DIRECTORY

An incredible opportunity to own your own equestrian paradise in Northern Michigan. Don & Ruth Willey have opened their expansive property to host 4H events, trail riding endurance courses, speed shows and more. They're moving with their family to Arizona and offering their beautiful facility to the highest bidders. Truly a rare opportunity! Real estate being offered in Multi-Parcel Auction format. Buyers can bid on individual parcels, the entire offering, or any combination. Please contact Leist Auctioneers at 833-323-2BID for questions regarding the auction process.

Frank Leist - Broker

Poco Bueno bred AQHA Geldings suitable for all levels of riders. Preifert Panel 6 Horse Walker – like new Saddles and Misc. Horse Tack. Exiss LQ 4 Horse Slant Load. Farm Equipment including New Holland Square Baler, Rock Rake, New Idea Manure Spreader Kubota BX2200 Compact Tractor with loader Belarus 572 with loader

Monly Equine Show

BRINGING AWARENESS & EDUCATION TO MICHIGAN'S EQUINE COMMUNITIES

BRINGING AWARENESS & EDUCATION TO MICHIGAN'S EQUINE COMMUNITIES

THIRD THURSDAY OF EACH MONTH @ 7PM

Join us for a fun and educational exploration of an equine topic every month.

Don’t miss out on our monthly prize giveaways!

Co-hostedby:BrandtClarkandTammyTyler

Sponsorship Opportunities

A show sponsorship is $300 each which includes a maximum one minute video ad. We will send the upload directions. Shows are produced monthly with four sponsor ads included. Advertising deadline is the second Monday of each month.

Prize Donation Acceptance

Audience Reach~ 20,000+

Our show attenders love to win prizes! Donating products and services from your equine related business is a great way to directly advertise to the equine community. Prizes can be awarded in one of three ways:

1. The winners name will be sent to you for follow up.

2. You can mail the items to Tammy at the address below

3. Drop off items or gift cards at Tom’s Western Store, Ovid, MI with a MIEN label.

Each monthly show will be presented live on the Michigan Equine Network Facebook page. All sponsors, product donators, speakers and hosts will be tagged in the show which will increase audience reach. Shows will be recorded and will be able to be watched at a later date via the Michigan Equine Network Facebook page. Links to all shows will be available on YouTube, Instagram and the Michigan Equine Network website. A monthly shows audience reach should likely be 20,000 people with the potential to reach more individuals directly in the equestrian, livestock and agricultural communities.

For more information or episode suggestions, contact:

Brandt Clark (989) 506-9643

Email: brandt@michiganequinenetwork.com

Tammy Tyler (989) 213-7817

Email: tammy@michiganequinenetwork.com

Please make checks payable to: Tammy Tyler (add MI Equine Network in the memo line)

Mailing address: 1004 Hollister Rd., Ovid, MI 48866 A receipt will be emailed to you.

https://www.michiganequinenetwork.com/

2023 OPEN HORSE SHOWS

June 9, 16, 23 | July 14 | Aug 11 | Sept 1

Greater Thumb Area Silver Buckle Speed Series.

Start: 7pm. Entry booth opens 6pm. MIHA rules apply

June 9 & Sept. 1: Hosts N. Branch Equestrian Team. Contact Marie Curell (810) 614-9390

June 16 & June 23: Hosts Thumb Area Kids & Critters. Jackie (989) 302-0191, email: jd070409@gmail.com

July 14 & Aug 11: Hosts Kingston Equestrian Team. Contact Amy Kotsch (989) 683-3271

BWHA Father’s Day Show

June 18th

Blue Water Horseman’s Assoc. Dave (810) 614-2290

Saturday, June 17th

Boots & Bridle 4-H Club Open Show

Great awards! Rosette ribbons 2nd-6th place, extra large rosette for 1st. High point awards for all age groups. Call Amy Kotsch (989) 683-3271

Saturday, June 24th

Tuscola Co. 4-H Horse Leaders Open Show

Trophies & ribbons 1st-6th place. Contact: Jackie (989) 302-0191, email: jd070409@gmail.com

142ND ANNUAL

Saturday, July 1st

Thumb Area Kids & Critters 4-H Club Open Show Contact Jackie Garner (989) 302-0191 or email: jd070409@gmail.com

Tuesdays – July 11 & August 8th

Twilight Pleasure Shows

Start: 7pm. Entry booth opens 6pm. Call Amy Kotsch (989) 683-3271

Saturday & Sunday, August 12th & 13th

Ride For A Cure Benefit Open Show

Held at: HURON CO. FAIRGROUNDS, BAD AXE, MI

$5.00 per class. Saturday Speed Classes 9am start Sunday Pleasure Show 9am start. All proceeds to local cancer patients. Purchase t-shirts to be worn as show shirts! Contact Cameron or Peggy Lloyd, email: lloyd_peggy@yahoo.com

JULY 25TH

Carnival Opens at Noon.

Kid’s Day: Free T-Shirts (Ltd. qty.)

Reduced Admission ages 2-14. Thumb Truck & Tractor Pull.

JULY 26TH & 27TH

Super Kicker Rodeo

JULY 28TH

Midget Wrestling Warriors Longer Show! More Wrestlers!

JULY 29TH

Unique Motor Sports: Bump & Run, Off-Road Derby & Night of Destruction COMMERCIAL VENDOR’S WELCOME! RENT

JULY 23-29, CARO, MI

Commercial Vendor Space Rental available during the fair

For Midway Hall and Vendor Booth

Specials, Contact: John Riley at: tuscolacountyfair@hotmail.com

Event Rentals: seats up to 200 with A/C and warming kitchen.

1st

Tom Moore 517.467.7576

email: sales@mooreshorsecompany.com

www.mooreshorsecompany.com

Independent Bemer Distributor

Phone: 517-881-3622

Email: gailqmoon@gmail.com

Website: johnson-gail.bemergroup.com

Sales, Demos & Rentals

MLHCRound-Up June9-11,2023 REGISTRATION:

Prairie Creek Indian Hill

6278 S Co Rd 475 E, Muncie, IN 47302

Adults $20 (ages 13 & over)

Children $5 (6-12 years old)

MLHC membership not required to participate.

CAMPING: (1st come, 1st served)

$30 Per Night with Electric $15 Per Night Primitive

FRIDAY, JUNE 9TH: Trail riding all day Bridle tags not required for registered participants. 5pm: Registration starts. Spin the wheel during registration to win a prize. Sign up for the Saturday 10am lunch ride to Mt. Pleasant Store (includes a small fountain drink and a slice of pizza). 6pm: Hot dogs, chips, and roasting marshmallows. Some folks do a night ride (bring glow sticks and/or flashlights).

SATURDAY, JUNE 10TH: Trail riding all day Bridle tags not required for registered participants. 8am: Registration starts. Spin the wheel during registration to win a prize. Don't forget to sign up for the lunch ride at 10 am. Lunch ride to Mt. Pleasant Store (Includes a small fountain drink and a slice of pizza). 10am-4pm: Kids Scavenger Hunt, no age limit. Winners announced during dinner 1st, 2nd, & 3rd places. 11am-6pm: Silent Action (all items to be paid for by 7 pm). 2pm: Obstacle Course Challenge. 3pm: Stick Horse Races (ages 6 and under). 5pm: Dinner (hamburgers, chips, beans, coleslaw, pie, pop, and water). 6:30pm: Campfire Cowboy Stories. 8pm-11pm: Music and Dancing.

SUNDAY, JUNE 11TH: Trail riding all day Bridle tags not required for registered participants. 9am: Cowboy Church. Coffee and Donuts provided.

Riding Trails: Prairie Creek Reservoir and Cardinal Greenways horse trails are considered moderate to easy trails. Both trail systems give riders around 10 miles of trails to enjoy. The trails provide some great views of nature, the reservoir, and opportunities to see the wildlife found in these habitats. These trails do include some water and road crossings and are great for all levels of riders to enjoy their horse.

Muncie Light Horse Club

Email: muncielighthorseclub@gmail.com | https://www.muncielighthorseclub.com/ Email: muncielighthorseclub@gmail.com | https://www.muncielighthorseclub.com/

2023 MEMBERSHIP FORM

MEMBERSHIPTYPE: Family $25 Single $20 New Renewal

Name Spouse

Address City State Zip

Contact Phone Spouse’s Phone

Email Spouse’s Email

Would you prefer your bi-monthly newsletter by email? Yes No

Please List Children/Dependents

Barn: Muncie, IN 6498 S Co Rd 475 E

MLHC 2023 Events

June 9-11: MLHC Round-Up (Volunteers Needed)

July 6-8: Indiana Celebration TN Walking Horse Show

July 29: Night of Fire (Volunteers Needed)

September 30: IronmanTriathlon

Nov. 13: Meeting/Pitch-In at Mansfield Park

With the payment of membership fees, I hold Muncie Light Horse Club harmless from any claims and/or litigation arising from club activities.

Signature

Dec. 3: Christmas Party at Muncie Shrine Club

Please make checks payable to: MLHC. Bring your membership form to a club meeting or mail completed form to: MLHC c/o Ilene Parrish, 11085 W. US 36, Losantville, IN 47354

The Science of Being Outdoors

By Robert Eversole | https://www.trailmeister.com/

I recently had the privilege of presenting a series of talks at the 50th Anniversary shindig for the Back Country Horsemen of Montana. It was a fab time with a beautiful group of people.

In one of the presentations, I used statistics to illustrate why capital “W” Wilderness should be on our bucket list of rides. After all, studies have consistently found we're almost always happier outdoors. After the discussion, I wanted to look deeper into why.

In human evolutionary history, we've been outdoors for 99% of the time. However, we spend 93% of our days in cars or indoors today As of 2008, most of the planet lives in urban areas. There are lots of studies that show what we already know: that this can be harmful.

In one UK study, life satisfaction fell by 0.5% for every extra 10 milligrams of pollution in their area. In a 2000 study, traffic noises of only 50 dB (the same as a quiet office setting) led to a 20% increase in high blood pressure. According to another study, a 10db increase in noise at night resulted in a 14% rise in hypertension.

Other studies have found that schools near an airport have lower scores on reading tests.

What changes when we're outside?

Forest activities have been found to decrease cortisol levels by 12%, heart rate by 6%, and blood pressure by 1.3%. Studies have confirmed that being in nature reduces anxiety and improves mood, and these positive effects last for days after exposure to wild areas.

In one experiment, 120 people viewed films of accidents. Afterward, one group watched nature scenes, and another saw urban settings. The researchers measured vital signs such as heart rates and blood pressure before and after. Those shown the scenes of nature were back to their baseline readings in 5 minutes, whereas those watching urban settings were only partially back after twice that time.

Another experiment studied groups of people in the forest for a few hours each day. Results included immunity-boosting white blood cells that were 40% higher immediately afterward and remained 15% higher a month later compared with those who did not visit a forest.

Other studies have shown creativity increased by up to 50% after wildland activities. The smell of pines has been shown to lower heart rate and blood pressure. Hospital rooms with views of nature led to patients needing less time to recover. One study of 40 million people found that people that live in greener areas have lower death rates.

“Never does nature say one thing and wisdom another.”

(Juvenal, early 2nd century Roman poet)

At this point, I'd like to be done with scientific studies, although it's nice that science has confirmed what horse and mule riders already know: when you're in a rut, get outside. It shouldn't be a surprise that a ride is good for you. Many of the greatest minds have agreed with that statement but said it more elegantly.

Rachel Carson – “Those who contemplate the beauty of the earth find reserves of strength that will endure as long as life lasts. There is something infinitely healing in the repeated refrains of nature – the assurance that dawn comes after night, and spring after winter.”

John Muir – “Thousands of tired, nerve-shaken, over-civilized people are beginning to find out that going to the mountains is going home; that wildness is a necessity.”

It's hard to argue with facts or emotions that being outside with our animals is anything but good for us. I wish you a great year on the trails!

For more of my musings on trail riding and camping with livestock, visit me at , where you can https://www.trailmeister.com/ also find the world’s largest guide to guide to horse trails and camps. Pick up a copy of my best-selling book “The ABCs of Trail Riding and Horse Camping” on Amazon.

https://www.trailmeister.com/

Emerson – “Standing on the bare ground, my head bathed by the blithe air and uplifted into infinite space, all mean egotism vanishes. I become a transparent eyeball; I am nothing.”

Beethoven – “The woods, the trees, and the rocks give man the resonance he needs.”

Find Ayla!

Ayla is a spotted Leopard Appaloosa mare. Can you find her within this issue of Saddle Up! Magazine?

Find Ayla & Win $30!

Each month, we hide a smaller image of Ayla within the pages of Saddle Up! Magazine. When you find her, mail us a letter or email us with the page that you “spotted” her on and you will be entered in our random drawing to win a prize of $30.00!

Email: saddleupmag@gmail.com

Address: 8415 Hogan Rd., Fenton, MI 48430

Deadline: The 20th of the current month

Contest for ages 14 & under only. Include your age and address so we may mail your winnings, if you win.

Our May 2023 Contest Winner

Evangelynn M., Age 13, Hicksville, OH

Contest Rules: Ages 14 & under only. One entry per month, per person. All correct answers will be entered in our random drawing

Stress Behavior, Diet, and Equine Hindgut Health

By Kentucky Equine Research Staff | https://ker.com/

The intestinal microbiome contributes to a horse’s overall health, and can be modified – sometimes detrimentally – by changes in diet, weight loss, obesity, transport, training intensity, disease, and age. Recent research indicates this microbiome communicates with the central nervous system, giving it the ability to alter a horse’s behavior via a mechanism known as the “gut-brain axis.”

“Studies show that the gastrointestinal tract and central nervous system, the latter of which includes the brain and spinal cord, exchange information with each other, tempting researchers to wonder whether it is possible to change behavior by controlling the microbiome,” explained Kathleen Crandell, Ph.D., a Kentucky Equine Research nutritionist.

Research on humans provides insight into this theory. Patients with depression have less diverse fecal microbiota compared with healthy individuals, indicating a causal relationship between overall diet quality and the occurrence of depression or anxiety may exist.

To explore this theory in horses, a group of French veterinary researchers* induced microbiome changes in the intestinal tracts of horses through dietary manipulation. Horses were offered either a 100% hay-based diet or a high-starch diet composed of 56% hay and 44% barley Once acclimated to the diet, all horses underwent two different stress tests.

The first was a novelty test in which horses were placed in a familiar pen with a bucket of feed. A novel object was then placed in the pen. The horse’s response to this novel object was recorded, including whether or not it would continue to eat, remain vigilant (immobile with head in an upright position, ears immobile and tail slightly raised), smell the floor, interact with the novel object (head and ears oriented towards the object, blow (high-pitched sound produced as the horse exhales through the nose), or move freely around the pen.

The second challenge involved the umbrella test, in which the horse entered the test pen and was then subjected to the sudden opening of an umbrella. Researchers assessed response using the same parameters described above.

According to the researchers, “Behavioral responses of anxiety were related to hindgut microbiota indicators of a high-starch diet. Dietary-induced modulation of the gut microbiota composition may have changed the horses’ behavioral reactions in stressful situations.”

“Optimal nutrition tailored to your horse’s unique lifestyle will maximize health, quality of life, and potentially modify its behavior to reduce the negative influence of stressful situations,” relayed Crandell.

She added, “Consult with a Kentucky Equine Research nutrition advisor for assistance. Be certain to ask about go-to products for horses suspected of having hindgut problems.”

*Destrez, A., P Grimm, and V Julliand. 2019. Dietary-induced modulation of the hindgut microbiota is related to behavioral responses during stressful events in horses. Physiology and Behavior 202:94-100.

PALM PARTNERSHIP TRAINING™ Overcoming Natural Water Obstacles

By Lynn Palm | http://www.lynnpalm.com/

Water is possibly the most difficult natural obstacle for any horse to accomplish. Why? Because horses are smart and they want to take care of themselves! When they cannot see the bottom of the water obstacle, they feel as though they can’t access their safety.

Whenever I see a rider trying to get their horse in water and the horse is resisting, oftentimes the rider becomes discouraged and they start kicking the horse to go forward. Anytime you start kicking a horse, they’ll go backward instead of forward. This becomes frustrating for the horse because he’s insecure about the water and the rider is giving him the wrong guidance.

To teach your horse confidence with water it’s best to start him on the ground. I also like using another horse’s presence who is confident with water This gives confidence and trust to the horse who is hesitant about water obstacles, whether it’s a flowing creek or a calm lake.

I use a conventional halter, lunge line and lunge whip and constantly keep the horse moving away from me. The reason is clear: If the horse doesn’t want to go in the water, they’re going to walk over the top of you because they are not afraid of you. It’s also possible that they’ll jump on you because that spot where you are is safe.

I let the horse you’re leading in-hand follow the confident horse. Allow the confident horse to listen to the water, make splashes, and go in and out of the water beside my in-hand horse. When you can get one foot wet on the hesitant horse, you’re going to succeed. Don’t constantly keep the hesitant horse away from you by throwing your arms and wildly swinging your whip; simply do not allow him to come toward you.

This will teach him to deal with the water on his own. Once he gets his foot wet and starts to step in, I follow him on horseback and stay parallel to him. I allow the horse to walk in and walk out of the water, which serves as a reward.

Once my horse is confident about the water obstacle while inhand, I progress to approaching the water while under saddle. I still use another horse as a helper so mine will follow and build assurance and trust. Once I get the horse in the water, I do not let him stop and paw; I keep him moving forward. The pawing is a good sign, however, demonstrating that he is building his confidence. But I keep him moving forward. Once I accomplish this, it’s enough of a lesson for that day.

In the next training lesson, I continue to build confidence by continuing to use another horse. I will use that other horse as much as possible until I’m assured that my horse now has confidence with water. When my once-hesitant horse is ready, I still have my other horse alongside as I go in and out of the water on my own. The final stage is to fall in behind the other horse, using natural herd instinct to follow another horse.

If a horse has had a bad experience in the past or has gotten scared with water, take your time and understand that a horse is smart and is simply trying to protect himself. He doesn’t know what’s under that water With horses who never get comfortable with water, I always know they’ve had a bad experience in the past.

If you’re going on a trail where you may encounter water, make sure you have a halter and lead with you. If you need assistance you can return to basic ground work or somebody can help you –it’s easier with a halter and lead. Put your halter on over your bridle and either tie your lead over and around the horse’s neck or on the saddle horn.

There’s nothing more fun than a horse who is confident with water! I love to swim horses – it’s a blast! What’s even more fun is to ride horses on the beach! Take your time, invest in ground work, and make sure you have a good helper along with a confident horse. These are the keys to succeeding and building water confidence with your own horse.

I also have a DVD series, “Training on the Trail.” These give you successful training lessons for any natural obstacle you may encounter on a trail or competition.

Palm Equestrian Academy email: generalinfo@lynnpalm.com ~ 352-362-7847

Cyril and Lynn offer clinics throughout the country and abroad as well as online coaching. Join them on their teaching tours or their Palm Equestrian Academy European Journeys.

Getting Ready to Hit the Road

By Lisa Kiley | https://www.cashmans.com/

June is a great month to get out on the road and take your horse on an adventure, whether that is a clinic, trail ride, or horse show, there are some things to think about before you load your horse up in the trailer While there are different considerations based on the length of the trip, there are some things that every hauler should think about no matter if you are hauling around the corner or across the country.

Here are some tips for getting ready for a trip off the farm:

1. Tune-up – the first thing is to make sure that everything with the trailer is in good working order when it comes to the mechanics. For horse trailers, this is everything from breaks to hitches, axles to tires. Similarly, the truck you are hauling with should also be in good order and the right match for your horse trailer. While a truck may be able to pull a trailer, it needs to be able to stop that trailer when it is full of horses, which requires more power Have your truck and trailer maintained on a regular schedule by a trusted mechanic.

2. Spare Tire – Checking the spare tire is important for safety It may be sitting on the side of the trailer right where you need it, but is it in good condition? Left too long, it may dry rot and be useless when you need it. It’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with changing a tire on a trailer and having all the supplies to do so. Knowing how to efficiently change a tire can be the difference between a minor set back and a ruined weekend.

3. Light check – Break lights on a trailer are a number one priority for safety but turn signals and running lights are important too. Going down the road, having a well-lit exterior of the trailer makes it safe for you and your horse on the highway Don't forget to check the interior lights too, which can be very helpful if you travel in the wee hours of the morning or into the night. Get in the habit of doing a light check each time before you hit the road.

4. Flooring – The type of flooring that you have in the trailer will determine what type of maintenance your trailer requires. If your trailer has a wood floor, you need to keep a close eye on the boards to make sure that there is no issue with rotting and this floor requires extra cleaning to make it last. Other floor options are more durable, but it is still a good practice to monitor flooring for any weaknesses or signs of wear. For the comfort of your horse, the floor should be matted with rubber which will help prevent slipping. Add a low dust bedding which can also aid in comfort and traction and clean thoroughly after each use.

5. Bee Aware – If your horse trailer has been sitting vacant over the winter, it might have become a host for flying friends from birds to bees or wasps. Take the time to look around the interior roof of the trailer and see if you can spot any nests that need to be removed. This is a good time to examine the interior walls for any needed repairs that could cause discomfort during transit.

6. Ventilation – This is also a good time to make sure that your top vents are working and are propped up in the correct direction. Open toward the front brings cool air in from the outside and is usually the way you want to open them for warm weather traveling Vents open to the back allow for trapped air to escape and are typically set that way for cool weather traveling. Check

to make sure that windows and screens are working in the trailer as well. While horses need ventilation when traveling, don't allow horses to keep their heads out of trailer windows as it poses many safety risks and can cause devastating injury

7. Water Wise – Horses can be particular about the water they drink. Horses will often reject offered water on the road, which can become dangerous if the horse becomes dehydrated. One solution is to use a product like a Horse Hydrator, that filters water and removes tastes that can be off putting to your horse, encouraging him to drink more. Another option is to bring water from home. There are many convenient tank sizes that are made to easily fit into spaces of your trailer or in the flat bed of the truck. This ensures that you have a water source no matter where you travel.

8. Get Organized – If you are heading somewhere to ride or show, having the right organization equipment when you travel can be a game changer. Well situated hooks and racks can keep your tack safe and secured as you are heading from point A to B. Once you get to a location, having a rolling dolly or saddle cart can save your back moving tack from one area to another Rolling muck carts can also be a huge time saver and can be used to move other supplies like hay/shavings in addition to muck tubs.

9. First Aid – Before you hit the road, having a stocked first aid kit for humans and horses is important. If you're not sure what to pack, there are some great resources online that provide lists of essentials or buy a prepacked version. You may want to also pack an emergency kit for you and your horse. This can be anything from rain gear to road flares and extra food, pack things that are suitable for the areas where you will be traveling

10. Vet Check – Depending on where you are hauling, you may need to have paperwork on the horses in tow, often this is a Coggins test and/or a health certificate. Take the time to investigate the requirements for the state you are in and will be traveling to so that all your papers are in order. If you are going to a show, check with the association or management to ensure that you have all the paperwork you need upon arrival. There are even apps that can help organize and store your horse's information.

Summer is a great time to get out, hit the road and enjoy spending time with our horses and friends. Cashmans hopes you have safe travels when you're out and about. If you are passing through Ohio, think about stopping in to visit, we have convenient parking for any size rig and plenty of supplies to keep you and your horses happy!

About the author: Lisa Kiley is a horse enthusiast and a proud member of the Cashman’s Horse Equipment Team in Delaware, OH.

Fat Horses

By David Ramey, DVM | https://www.doctorramey.com/

I hesitate to say this, but your horse may be fat. Please don’t take this personally I’m not saying that you are fat. And I’m not trying to insult your horse. I’m just worried about him.

Anyone who has a cook in the family knows that a time-honored way to express affection for something is to feed them. That’s why there’s a whole grocery store aisle that’s devoted to chewy treats, and crunchy biscuits, and yummy beef-flavored nuggets for your dog and your cat. That’s why your grandma always beamed when you ate an extra piece of her chocolate cake (or banana cream pie, or whatever). If you like something, you feed it. It’s an unwritten – but time-honored – rule.

Anyone who has a horse knows that horses like to eat. In fact, there’s a phrase you might have heard to describe a voracious appetite: “Eating Like a Horse.” Horses not only eat large amounts of food, but they also like to eat all of the time. In the wild, horses will eat 23 of the 24 hours in a day (why they take an hour off, I can’t say). So, when it comes to expressing your affection, and you want to do your expressing with something to eat, you’ve got a ready taker if you’ve got a horse.

If you haven’t noticed, horses are also not particularly concerned about their appearance. That’s one reason why, after you’ve spent an hour grooming, brushing, and braiding, and polishing, your horse will reward your efforts by finding some place to go roll in the dirt. That’s also one reason why you can dress them up in any number of delightfully cute outfits, color their hooves, or braid their manes in colorful ribbons, and they’ll still come out of the stall. There is no such thing as equine peer pressure.

As such, horses are also not particularly concerned about their weight – no horses asking to sign up for Weight Watchers®, as far as I know. When it comes to horses, and eating, the only real issues are, 1) When can they eat, and, 2) How much they can eat. We should all have such worries.

Hopefully this hasn’t happened to you, but when the only thing that you’re concerned about is how much you can eat, and when, well, there are consequences. In people, the consequences are pretty well known. One example of such a consequence might be something like no longer being able to see your feet. These sorts of concerns are trivial to horses, of course. Nevertheless, for horses, obesity carries with it a whole bunch of other problems. Here are a few

1. Fat horses are insulated horses. Fat covers the horse’s body (under the skin) like a blanket, in the same way that seals and walruses have blubber layers. Because of this, fat horses have an extra hard time getting rid of body heat (horses have a hard time getting rid of heat anyway – lots of reasons for this, which is one reason why most horses don’t need to be blanketed). While a bit of a fat layer may not be such a problem if the horse lives in Uzbekistan in the winter (or South Dakota) or if you’re planning on taking him swimming in the North Sea, in the summer, when the outside temperature rises, extra fat causes a horse to have trouble losing body heat.

FAT HORSE STORY: I was officiating at a Paso Fino Horse Show a number of years ago. If you haven’t seen these mostly delightful horses – who are one of the breeds that have a natural gait – people who show them insist on covering them up with saddles that appear to have enough leather in them to cover even the largest home sofa ensemble. Plus, his trainer had apparently not missed a meal since the Truman Administration. And the poor little horse had a fat layer that would have made a blue whale proud. And it was August in California. Really, it was a perfect storm.

Anyway, I got an emergency call because this poor little sausage finally had had enough, and just laid down. Right in the middle of the warm-up arena. Everyone was concerned that something was seriously wrong, but the real problems were that 1) He was fat, 2) It was hot, 3) There was no part of his body that wasn’t covered in leather, 4) His trainer was almost as large as he was, and 5) The cinch was so tight that he could hardly breathe. Once I popped the cinch, took off the saddle, and threw some water on the poor thing, he jumped up, and took off Really, who could blame him? But it was all so avoidable.

Things can get worse for fat horses in the heat Obese Oldenburgers, for example, working hard in the heat outside can get into some pretty serious metabolic trouble, such as from heat stroke. There’s nothing wrong with seeing a rib in a horse, you know

2. Exercise intolerance. Ever see a massive marathon runner? How ’bout a pudgy pole vaulter? A hefty hurdler? Get my alliterative point? Horses are supposed to be athletes, and athletes are supposed to be in shape. In addition to overheating, if you keep your horse too fat, he’s going to be at a disadvantage when it comes to competing (assuming you like to compete). Toting around extra pounds slows your horse down. It makes it harder for jumpers to get off the ground. For dressage horses, suspension becomes a cruel dream. Barrel horses take wide paths around barrels because, well, there’s no other way. Extra weight is hard on joints, too. There’s a reason that sprinters don’t look like shot putters, you know. Keep your horse fit, not fat.

3. Laminitis. Laminitis (also called “founder” in some circles) can be an awful condition to deal with that, in its worst forms, can result in permanent lameness, or even death. While no one is exactly sure what causes it, just about everyone agrees that fat horses are at special risk to develop the problem.

(20) JUNE 2023 • C & C PUBLISHING, INC. ©2023

At best, an overheated horse won’t perform well. HTTPS://SADDLEUPMAG.COM/

“OK, you’ve convinced me, Dr. Ramey,” you say. “How do I know if my horse is fat? And how do I help keep my Quarter horse from becoming a three-Quarter horse (or more), my Tennessee Walker from becoming a Tennessee Waddler, or my Paso Fino from becoming a Paso Gordo?”

Glad you asked. It’s simple, actually.

PART ONE: How to tell if your horse is fat. You should be able to feel your horse’s ribs easily, but not see them (much). Really athletic horses, like racehorses, or really athletic people, usually have their ribs showing. To my knowledge, no one – especially those of the female persuasion – complains about seeing the ribs of a human athlete. Not so, when it comes to horses. But, seriously, if you can’t tighten your cinch without a winch, if you feel like you’re doing the splits every time you get in the saddle, or if you can’t pick up your horse’s feet because they are just too heavy, there’s a good chance that your horse might need to go on a diet.

PART TWO: What do I do if he’s too fat?

1. Feed him less. To read seven simple feed rules visit: https://www.doctorramey.com/feed-rules/

2. Exercise him more.

3. Feed him a lower calorie feed. Grass hays have fewer calories in them than does alfalfa hay, for example. Keep your eye on the grains and fats.

4. If that’s not helping, call your veterinarian and ask him or her to see if something’s wrong. There are conditions that cause

horses to gain weight and keep weight easily, such as the insulin resistance/metabolic syndrome. For those horses, there are special diets.

Keep your horse at a good weight. He’ll feel better, live longer, and be healthier overall. Feed less, and you’ll save money, too. Everyone wins!

ABOUT DAVID RAMEY, DVM: Dr Ramey began veterinary practice in 1984 in southern California. He has been providing outstanding care to horses ever since. He specializes in the care and treatment of pleasure and performance horses His clients particularly value his no nonsense approach, focused on providing services instead of selling products, his compassion for horses, and his ethical approach to the practice of veterinary medicine. Visit Dr Ramey’s website at: https://www.doctorramey.com/

Therapeutic Riding Programs Benefit

Horses and Humans

By Cindy Johnson | Email: cjquimby@gmail.com

High on a hill in Steuben County Indiana, a herd of 20 plus rescue horses, minis, donkey's, mules, goats, sheep, dogs, and a potbellied pig named Josie, hang out on a 10-acre refuge and earn their keep by helping others. The non-metabolic horses roam on spacious acreage with ample hay and shelter, while the skinny members feast on lush pasture.

Their jobs are to heal themselves and others challenged by mental, emotional, and physical problems. Allison Wheaton explained, “Each pair (human and animal) seem to find each other based on their needs.”

Most of the horses used in the therapy program come from rescues, donations, and sale barns. One two-year old was starved as a yearling and now blossoms with health and happiness.

A feisty 27-year old mule was previously owned by a person who had developed Dementia and forgot about her to the point of starvation. She is now gaining weight and enjoying life.

One gelding suffered such severe abuse when he was kept chained that he became dissociative, terrified of people and dangerous in his fight or flight mindset. He was paired with a client sharing the same problem who could recognize when he went into his trance and checked out. Both are working on their condition and showing improvement.

The stories are varied and sad, but the end results are beneficial for the animals and humans. Allison believes that every horse can help somebody

Two young mustangs from Wyoming joined the gang in May as part of the Mustang Adoption Program following a burro who was adopted from the Bureau of Land Management. All newcomers will be gentled by veterans under Allison's supervision.

Some of the herd serve as non-riding companions, while 13 horses are currently being ridden by clients.

“A lot of the horses just get dumped on us, and we incorporate them into our program. During Covid, we'd get calls averaging 8 horses per week that people wanted to donate. Unfortunately, we couldn't take that many. It was a bad time,” Alllison said.

“Since the horses come from varying backgrounds, we don't always know what to expect. One TB mare was difficult to load. We finally got her loaded and took her to Ft. Wayne for the program and then couldn't load her to bring her home. We tried everything, different trailers, different handlers, and even sedation. Nothing worked. I made the decision to walk her back to Angola a distance of 41 miles. It took 2 days. We turned it into an event showing that people often treat those with mental and emotional problems unfairly People would say, “She deserves to have sore feet since she wouldn't load,” she said. This horse was worth the effort. Someone decided to individually sponsor her when they heard her story

Each week, 12 veterans take part in the therapeutic program. Steve is one of the long-term clients who began his therapy in

2008 after a traumatic brain injury left him paralyzed on his left side and with PTSD. He began riding using a lift to get on the horse. As he got stronger, he is now able to get on from a mounting block and recently graduated to a more-lively horse.

Veterans come from the Vietnam, Iraq, Afghanistan, and the Gulf Wars. One former pilot who served in Korea also participates in the program. Funding for the program is primarily through private donations and grants. Funding from the VA is limited as there are so many restrictions.

Annually, this program costs around $130,000 which includes feed, veterinary bills, farrier and feed bills along with Allison's salary. Further staffing includes 30 trained volunteers who help keep the program alive.

Besides veterans, the therapeutic program helps children and adults suffering from physical, emotional, and mental problems. Connections are made by word-of-mouth including referrals from therapists. Treatment for eating disorders often includes equine therapy One young client has a permanent rod in her back and works on core strength training and flexibility which helps her keep a positive outlook on her life.

Allison found her way to becoming an equine therapist via an indirect route. As a child, she had access to “amazing neighbors who let me help out in their barn, scooping poop, so I got to ride. My sister and I had a full collection of Breyer horses and while I stuck with my love for them, she chose boys. Funny, my niece is a 'mini-me' and is crazy about horses,” she said.

Studying International cultures and business at UNC Chapel Hill in North Carolina, Allison dually earned her pilot's license. After graduation, she flew fishermen in Canada and took flight instruction jobs. “After a while, I felt like a taxi driver. Something was missing from my life. A friend suggested I volunteer at a therapeutic riding program in Seattle. Once there, I found all the things I love,” she said.

In 2005, Allison met her boyfriend and moved with him to Angola, Indiana. She started volunteering at the Cheff Therapeutic Riding Center in Battle Creek, Michigan and earned her certification as a therapeutic riding instructor through the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship.

In 2006, she started her own program at Summit Equestrian Center in Ft. Wayne, Indiana using an indoor arena. She con-

Allison Wheaton with some of her clients and horses.

ducts her sessions there on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays and some weekends, trailering in her horses from Angola.

To raise awareness for the plight of veterans, (statistics reveal that each day, and average of 22 veterans take their own lives), Allison and her crew organized a 20-mile ride through downtown Ft. Wayne last year. The event was called ‘Trail to 20.’ This year's ride will be held on Saturday, September 16th. Last year's ride featured 30 horses and riders.

The Veteran portion of their program costs around $70,000 annually. Veterans, their spouses and kids also receive help. Many veterans benefit from their interaction with horses and can translate that success into their own lives.

There are two major fundraisers annually, one held in May and the other in September The May fundraiser featured a sniper from Vietnam as speaker along with a BBQ dinner.

The Friday before Veteran's Day, November 3rd, “Stock the Barn Day” will have a live band, food and will also be held in their indoor arena in Ft. Wayne, Indiana.

The need for funding is always present in non-profit organizations. Donations and individual corporate sponsorships are always needed and welcome. Allison can be reached at 260619-270 or email: allison@summitequestrian.org. Visit Summit Equestrian Center online at: https://summitequestrian.org/ or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SummitEquestrianFW

About the author: Cindy Johnson has been a horse owner since she was 13 years old. She is also a freelance writer. If you wish to have an article written about your equine pursuits, please email her at: cjquimby@gmail.com

Outdated Ideas

Kim Cardeccia | https://confidencethroughconnection.com/

Sometimes thoughts and ideas that have perpetuated in the horse industry are not helpful. Many of us were taught some things that end up working not only against us, but against our horses as well. Shedding some light on a couple of these ideas can help us focus our thoughts and intentions in a manner that creates more harmony with our horses.

Here's one of the most absurd things that I was taught: Never let the horse know you're afraid. Not only did I hear it come from the instructor's mouths during group lessons, I remember reading it in books. Of course, I read every horse book I could get my hands on when I was a kid. Sort of true now, but I use much more discretion. Back to the point, it was common belief to try to hide from the prey animal that you were scared.

Did you catch in that advice there was also the implication that you shouldn't be scared? Because, of course, you had to hide your fear, you shouldn't be having it. And, how exactly does one hide fear? Pretty much by acting in a way that resembles anger or aggression. Because we usually try to make ourselves bigger and bolder if we don't want to be seen as scared. Another idea that does not promote trust with our horses. Not to mention how it invalidates our human experience!

Another confusing concept is around the notion that we can't let our horses get away with things. It's akin to letting them know we're the boss. Obviously these ideas are steeped in getting

compliance from horses. Although most of us now know that horses are usually confused, scared or in pain when they can't accept our invitations, we might have to remind ourselves when we have a rough day with our horses. Or, when we are receiving advice. Sometimes what is offered is not congruent with our personal philosophy. But when we get frustrated or are off our game, we can get pulled off track and can doubt our heart. Here's a reminder to always follow your heart with your horse.

A little disclaimer about safety: being a kind and compassionate leader does not mean allowing your horse to run over you. Being kind does not mean being a push over. Following your heart does not mean you let yourself get hurt. Good boundaries are essential to good horsemanship (as well as everything else in life!).

Here is your encouragement to keep on trying to understand your horse and lead them from a place of compassion. It might not have been something you were taught at first, but that doesn't mean it isn't authentic and powerful. Which is a great gift offered to us by horses. The ability to manage our internal state and our mindset in order to offer our best leadership. Kindness is strength. Show it to your horse. Show it to yourself.

Kimberly Cardeccia is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 35 years of horse experience.

2023 ISHA Spring & Fall Open All Breed Horse Show

Hoosier Horse Park, Edinburgh, Indiana (rain or shine: covered arena)

Saturday/Sunday Classes Start Time: 8am | Sunday Jumping Classes Start Time: 8am

70% Paybacks

Spring Dates: May 20 & 21, 2023 – Judge: Kara Miller, LaGrange, KY

Fall Dates: August 19 & 20, 2023 – Judge: Duane Stutzman, Fresno, OH

Sport Horse In Hand Judges – SPRING: TBA

FALL: Cynthia Bellis-Jones, Paris, KY | Jumping Judge: Bobbi Milan, Greenwood, IN

$100 Added Money Payback Classes Saturday Night High Point Compeons

SATURDAY, MAY 20 & AUGUST 19, 2023

1 Sport Horse In Hand: All Breeds (open card) 8 AM-11 AM

2 English Type Halter: Geldings

3 Youth Stock Type Halter: Mares

4 Arabian Halter: Mares

5 Dra/Dra Cross Halter

6 Youth English Type Halter: Geldings

7 Thoroughbred Halter: Mares & Geldings

8 Half Arabian Halter: Mares

9 Color Horse-Pony Halter: All Breeds

10 Rescue Horse-Pony Halter: All Breeds

11 Stock Type Halter: Geldings

12 English Type Halter: Mares

13 *Youth Pony Halter: Mares & Geldings

14 Gaited Horse Model Halter: Mares

15 Youth English Type Halter: Mares

16 Hunt/Saddle Seat Type Showmanship: All Ages

17 Sck Horse (NO ENTRY FEE)

15 Minute Break

18 Roselyn A. Faut Memorial Class: W/T or W/J, 12 & Under Halter, Paern, Rail – no cross entry with class #19.

ISHA MEMBERS ONLY

19 Roselyn A. Faut Memorial Class: W/T/C or W/J/L, All Ages Halter, Paern, Rail – no cross entry with class #18.

ISHA MEMBERS ONLY

Lunch (45 Minutes)

Aernoon Classes not to begin before 11:00 AM

20 $100 Anything Goes Costume Class (in hand, riding or driving) 21 Beginner Hunt/Saddle Seat Pleasure: W/T/C, 13 Yrs & Up 22 Beginner Hunt/Saddle Seat Equitaon: W/T/C, 13 Yrs & Up 23

Questions or Stall Reservations: Donna Skatrud: 317-418-6381 or skatrudarabians@gmail.com

STALLS: Weekend Stalls $40 | Tie Outs $15 per day | ENTRY FEES: $8 Per Class | $10 for $100 Added Money Classes. OFFICE FEE: $10 Per Horse/Exhibitor Combination for Weekend

2023 ISHA Spring & Fall Open All Breed Horse Show

Hoosier Horse Park, Edinburgh, Indiana (rain or shine: covered arena)

Saturday/Sunday Classes Start Time: 8am | Sunday Jumping Classes Start Time: 8am

70% Paybacks

$100 Added

Money Payback

Spring Dates: May 20 & 21, 2023 – Judge: Kara Miller, LaGrange, KY

Fall Dates: August 19 & 20, 2023 – Judge: Duane Stutzman, Fresno, OH

Sport Horse In Hand Judges – SPRING: TBA

FALL: Cynthia Bellis-Jones, Paris, KY | Jumping Judge – Bobbi Milan, Greenwood, IN

Classes Saturday Night High Point Compeons

SUNDAY, MAY 21 & AUGUST 20, 2023

66 Youth Stock Type Halter: Geldings

67 *Pony Halter: All Breeds

68 Arabian Halter: Geldings & Stallions

69 Stallion Halter: All Breeds

70 Stock Type Halter: Mares

71 Half Arabian Halter: Geldings & Stallions

72 Gaited Horse Model: Geldings & Stallions

73 $100 Halter: All Breeds

74 Supreme All Breed Halter Championship: All First Place Halter Class Winners are eligible: NO ENTRY FEE

75 Western Showmanship: All Ages

76 Lead Line

77 **RESTRICTED 10 & Under Equitaon: Walk

HELPER REQUIRED

78 Dra/Dra Cross Pleasure Driving: W/T

79 Light Horse Pleasure Driving: W/Pleasure Trot/Road Trot

80 Pleasure Driving: All Breeds

81 Beginner Hunt/Saddle Seat Pleasure: 10 & Under W/T

HELPER REQUIRED

82 Beginner Hunt/Saddle Seat Equitaon: 10 & Under W/T

HELPER REQUIRED

97 Adults 19 & Over, Horse-Pony Pleasure: W/T/C or W/T/J

98 Hunt/Non-Gaited Saddle Seat Equitaon: W/T/C 15 Minute Break

99 **RESTRICTED Western Pleasure W/J

100 Stock Type Western Equitaon: W/J/L

101 Western Pleasure: W/J/L

102 TWH Open All Day Pleasure Youth – Oponal Tack (19 Yrs & Under as of 1/23)

103 **RESTRICTED Hunt/Saddle Seat Pleasure: W/T

104 KMH/RMH Trail Pleasure Youth – Oponal Tack (19 Yrs & Under as of 1/23)

105 **RESTRICTED Equitaon: W/T or W/J

106 Youth Hunt/Saddle Seat Equitaon: W/T/C 107 Open All Gaited Breeds Equitaon

108 Youth Pleasure: W/T or W/J

109 Youth Western Equitaon: W/J/L

110 Western Equitaon: W/J/L

111 Half Arabian Hunt Pleasure: W/T/C

112 KMH/RMH Youth Western Pleasure – Oponal Tack (19 Yrs & Under as of 1/23)

JUMPING CLASSES: SUNDAY 8 AM – ARENA 5

GROUND POLES DIVISION Classes 113, 114 & 115

113 Ground Poles US (W/T)

114 Ground Poles OP 115 Ground Poles OP

X-RAILS DIVISION Classes 116, 117 & 118

116 X-Rails US (W/T/C)

117 X-Rails OF (12-18" height)

118 X-Rails OF (12-18" height)

BEGINNER HUNTER DIVISION Classes 119, 120 &121

119 Beginner Hunter US (W/T/C)

120 Beginner Hunter OF (24" max height)

121 Beginner Hunter OF (24" max height)

HOPEFUL HUNTER DIVISION Classes 122, 123 & 124

94 Color Horse-Pony Western Pleasure: W/J/L

122 Hopeful Hunter US (W/T/C)

123 Hunter OF (2'3" – 2’6” height)

124 Hunter OF (2'3" – 2’6” height)

hps://www.indianasaddlehorse.org/

Facebook: Indiana Saddle Horse Associaon

Questions or Stall Reservations: Donna Skatrud: 317-418-6381 or skatrudarabians@gmail.com

STALLS: Weekend Stalls $40 | Tie Outs $15 per day | ENTRY FEES: $8 Per Class | $10 for $100 Added Money Classes. OFFICE FEE: $10 Per Horse/Exhibitor Combination for Weekend

ANIMAL RESCUES

CANTER Thoroughbreds Now Available! Visit us online: www.canterusa.org/Michigan, Horses For Sale. Visit CANTER Michigan on Facebook. Celebrating over 20 years of successfully transitioning more than 25,000 Thoroughbreds.

CANTER Michigan

Janet Salisbury, President

Commerce Twp., MI (Oakland) (S-08/23)

Email: cantermichigan@canterusa.org

www.canterusa.org/michigan

ANIMAL SUPPLEMENTS

CLASSIFIED ADS

BOARDING

Boarding in Hastings, MI (South East Grand Rapids area). Quiet, country with 165 acres of trails. Inside and outside board, large pastures w/shelters. 60x160 indoor riding arena. Lessons available. Horses for sale.

EVERVIEW FARM – 269. 948.9570

Hastings, MI (Barry) (S-04/24)

Email: lee@everviewfarm.net

BOARDING, CONT.

TUTHILL FARMS, SOUTH LYON offers stalls and pasture board on over 20 acres. Miles of trail riding on the farm. Good location for trailering to nearby parks. Quality hay, outdoor arena, round pen, dry lot, heated tack room and restroom.

TUTHILL FARMS – Sandra Tuthill 248.207.6201

South Lyon, MI (Livingston) (S-12/23)

Email: sandra@tuthillfarms.com

Fastrack Animal Supplements – Keep your horses healthier Healthier hooves, shinier hair coats, and more. With 16 of the top 17 horses in the National Barrel Race finals using Fastrack, why aren’t you using it?

FASTRACK ANIMAL SUPPLEMENTS

To get started, call Ray 989.550.1999 (PS-12/23)

or message: 888.266.0014, ext. 8778

AUTOMATIC WATERERS

Nelson Automatic Waterers – A Nelson preferred contractor! Installed from start to finish. Many units to choose from. Maintenance free, time saving, energy efficient. Repairs and directional boring available. Horse fence installation. R. BARNES CO., INC. – Rick Barnes Howell, MI (Livingston) (PS-12/23) 313.407.7373 cell.

Nelson Automatic Waterers – A Nelson preferred provider for repair and maintenance of your Nelson Automatic Waterers. Excellent response time. Most parts in stock. Honest, ethical and reliable. Will travel. www.WaterFixLLC.com

WATERFIX COMPANY – John Guthrie Dexter, MI (Washtenaw) (S-01/24) 313.418.5676 or 734.475.8898

Description: up to 30 words. Contact Information: up to 4 lines.

Email: saddleupmag@gmail.com

Mail: 8415 Hogan Rd., Fenton, MI 48430 Fax: 517.300.7095

Deadline: the 18th of the month for the following months issue.

Boarding in Milford, MI. Across from Kensington Metro Park. 10.5 acres completely fenced. Stall or pasture board. Round pen, lean-tos. 40 yrs of horse experience. Owner onsite. (M-08/23)

Online: http://www.everviewfarm.net/ CMS RANCH – Bob Harris 248.787.1453

566 S Garner Rd., Milford, MI

Online: https://www.tuthillfarms.com/

EQUINE DENTISTRY

LaRose Equine Dentistry, LLC: Specializing in equine dental care without the risk of sedation. Doug LaRose has 25 years of experience as an EqDT and has partnered with thousands of horse owners across Michigan to promote excellence in equine dental care. Find us on Facebook.

Offering Full Service Boarding, Training and Dressage lessons. Relax and enjoy your horse in a quiet, adult atmosphere. Please visit our website at www.EleventhHourFarm.com, or find us on Facebook.com/11th Hour Farm

ELEVENTH HOUR FARM – 248.755-2083

Holly, MI (Oakland) (PS-11/23)

Email: info@eleventhhourfarm.com

OPEN 24/7 – Quality Boarding Includes tack locker, heated rooms, 12% pellet grain, hay, large pastures and daily turnout. We have trails, two indoor arenas, and one outdoor arena with lights.

HARDY FARMS – 313.363.2243 (call or text)

7215 N. Latson Rd., Howell, MI (M-08/23)

Email: info@hardysfarm.com

http://www.hardysfarm.com/

Find us on Facebook: Hardy Farms

LAROSE EQUINE DENTISTRY (PS-09/23) 989.430.8595 or 989.285.5557

www.LaRoseEquineDentistry.com

www.facebook.com/LaRoseEquineDentistry

PASTURE AND STALL BOARD: Lush green turnouts, quality horse care, reasonable rates. 24 hr. access, 60x120 indoor arena. Easy access to multiple trail systems. Boutique boarding facility where you and your horse are treated like family

ROCKING J HORSE FARM (PS-05/23)

Steve Johnson 949.274.0338

Stockbridge, MI (Kane Rd. & M-36)

Email: rockingjhorsefarm@gmail.com

FREE Exam and Evaluation. Equine Dentistry, using hand tools. Offering Saddle Fitting, Equine Sports Massage Therapy, Gait Analysis, Trigger Point Manipulation, Red Light and Heat Therapy. SPRING EQUINE SERVICES (PS-01/23)

Lauren Springstube, EqDT CESMT 248.842.7821

Email: springequineservices@gmail.com

Facebook: Spring Equine Services

EQUINE MASSAGE

Horses In Harmony Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork, since 2001. Offering massage, Reiki, Craniosacral Therapy and Red/Infrared Light Therapy Facebook: HorsesInHarmonyCESMT, Instagram: @horsesinharmony.cesmt

HORSES IN HARMONY – Candy 810.923.5003

Howell, MI (Livingston) (M-10/23)

Email: horsesinharmony@att.net

horsesinharmony0.wixsite.com/horsesinharmony

Post your showbills/flyers to:

Tri-State Horse Shows

We’ll share them to Saddle Up! Magazine’s Facebook Page!

HTTPS://SADDLEUPMAG.COM/ (26)

SPRING EQUINE SERVICES

FARRIER SERVICE

Hoof Care Matters! Over 25 years of experience in trimming, shoeing and corrective shoeing. Ask about teeth floating too! Serving Oakland County and surrounding counties.

JOHN PETERSON FARRIER – 248.303.6498

Milford, MI (Oakland) (S-07/23)

FARRIER WRITTEN BOOK

EVERYDAY PROBLEMS OF EQUINE LAMENESS: Causes, Solutions & Facts by Orthopedic Farrier, Brian D Gnegy, CMF Topics such as: Proper alignment of trailers in relation to equine anatomy. Complete index on Amazon. (M-06/23)

Email: brian.gnegy.personal@gmail.com

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BKR8PD3X

FLY & INSECT CONTROL

Shoo-Fly Insect Control – Automatically get rid of flies, mosquitoes, and spiders. Safe and inexpensive to use. Used throughout Michigan for over 30 years. We Install or Do-It-Yourself

Bill Tressler – 517.927.8089

Webberville, MI (Ingham) (S-08/23)

Email: bill@radiant-energy.com

FOR SALE – EQUIPMENT

Hippotherapy Provider Retiring – after 20 years of pediatric practice. Selling equipment, helmets, games, child sized observation room chairs for siblings, miscellaneous. Selling all for $350. Great opportunity for someone starting a practice!

Contact Liz 734-368-1377

Chelsea, MI (Washtenaw) (M-06/23)

HELP WANTED

Sales Help Wanted – Envirostall, LLC needs distributors and sales people for our system that removes contaminants from horse stalls and protects the environment. Our system is patented, so you will have no competitors. (M-06/23)

ENVIROSTALL, LLC – 412.298.6850

Email: rvrana@envirostall.com

Online: https://www.envirostall.com/

HORSE BLANKET WASH

GOOD AS NEW BLANKETS – Horse blanket wash and repair service. New location now open in Howell, MI! 10 years experience.

GOOD AS NEW BLANKETS – 517.404.6336

2711 E Grand River, Howell, MI 48843

Email: goodasnewblankets@gmail.com

THE LAUNDRY BARN horse blanket laundry Offering blanket washing, repairs, waterproofing 25 plus years of commercial laundry experience. Professional products and equipment used.

THE LAUNDRY BARN – 248.274.6070 (text ok)

169 W Clarkston Rd., Lake Orion, MI 48362

Email: laundrybarn@gmail.com

CLASSIFIED ADS

HORSES FOR SALE

MINIATURES/PONIES – Appaloosa stallions for sale. Show and breeding quality New foals on the way! Call for details.

DANSYN ARABIANS & MINIS

Donna Rogers – 989.667.4028

Bay City, MI (Tuscola) (M-05/23)

HORSE TRAILERS

SPARTA CHEVROLET & TRAILER SALES – We specialize in horse trailers: full living quarters with slide-out, to smaller two horse bumper pulls. Cimarron, Lakota, Sundowner and Trails West. Great selection and even better prices!

SPARTA CHEVROLET & TRAILER SALES

Call Jim Kelly 616.887.3456 8955 Sparta Ave. NW, Sparta, MI (M-10/23)

Email: spartatrailers@gmail.com

Online: www.spartachevytrailers.com

PET & FARM SITTING

K & J HORSE AND FARM SITTING – Need to get away, call K & J! Also offering custom equestrian art, furniture, fly bonnets, wellness clips for furry horses needing quick shed off

K & J HORSE AND FARM SITTING

Call or text Kim Kingstad – 248.667.2185

Milford, MI (Oakland) (M-02/24)

INCOME OPPORTUNITY

52 yr. old manufacturing co. expanding. Looking for individuals that have experience in agriculture and animal health, who are interested in building there own business using Christian principles.

Please leave background/contact info.:

888.266.0014, ext. 8778 (S-12/23)

SADDLE/ LEATHER REPAIR

SADDLE REPAIR & LEATHER WORK New and used saddles and tack bought and sold. Complete Leather Repair available. Years of experience. Mon-Fri 9am-6pm, Sat. 9:30-5pm. (S-08/23)

JIM'S QUALITY SADDLE CO.

Jim Moule – 248.887.4829 (Milford, MI)

SANITARY STALLS

Envirostall, LLC keeps stalls sanitary and horses healthy by removing contaminants and turning horse urine into water and harmless gases. Get clean, dry stalls, healthier horses and no environmental problems. (M-06/23)

ENVIROSTALL, LLC – 412.298.6850

Email: rvrana@envirostall.com

Online: https://www.envirostall.com/

SHOW CLOTHING

DIY Sewing Kits! Horsemanship Shirts, Western and Bolero vests. Kit includes: fabric, interfacing, thread, zipper, with or without a pattern. Just cut and assemble. Call us for all your sewing needs!

Pegg Johnson – 810.346.2305

SHOW CLOTHES UNLIMITED (M-11/23)

Email: showclothes01@hotmail.com

Online: www.showclothesunlimited.com

Equestrian Wear Sewing Patterns: Full line of western show clothing patterns; jackets, shirts, vests, boleros, chaps. Child through plus sizes. Printed or PDF format.

Pegg Johnson – 810.346.2305

SHOW CLOTHES UNLIMITED (S-11/23)

Email: showclothes01@hotmail.com

Online: www.showclothesunlimited.com

TACK & APPAREL

For All Your Equestrian Needs! Used Western, English, Dressage, Saddleseat and Harness. Consignments welcome! Tuesday-Friday noon-6pm, Saturday 10am-4pm. Sundays/evenings by appt.

BRIGHTSIDE USED TACK & CONSIGNMENTS

Call 989.277.8917 or on Facebook: Brightside LLC Used Tack & Consignments

8555 Monroe Rd., Durand, MI (1/4 mile off I-69)

Halfway between Lansing & Flint, MI

TRAINING & LESSONS

Beautiful boarding and training facility for all breeds and disciplines. Green horses and firsttime riders welcome! Offering western dressage and short-term intensive training programs.

IRONWOOD FARM – Dorothy 313.215.1944

Leonard, MI (Oakland) (S-06/23)

Email: ironwoodfarmdressage@yahoo.com

www.ironwoodfarmequestrian.com

The Traveling Trainer offers training, lessons, consulting at your facility or mine. Over 30 years of experience. Bachelor’s degree in Equestrian Studies from the University of Findlay Also quality horses for sale. Find us on Facebook, or on Instagram: #thehappyhorsehouse, or visit our website at www.thetravelingtrainer.net

THE TRAVELING TRAINER LLC

Ann-Marie Lavallee – 810.796.3510

Dryden, MI (Lapeer) (S-08/23)

Email: thetravelingtrainer3@gmail.com

CLASSIFIED AD: $60 – 12 MONTHS

(one classified monthly, plus magazine)

DESCRIPTION: up to 30 words. CONTACT INFORMATION: up to 4 lines.

EMAIL: saddleupmag@gmail.com

MAIL: 8415 Hogan Rd., Fenton, MI 48430

DEADLINE: 18th of the month for next issue.

HTTPS://SADDLEUPMAG.COM/

SHOW & EVENT DATES

SHOWS

FREE HORSE SHOWS & EVENTS

Email: saddleupmag@gmail.com

1) Added to our online calendar with flyer

2) Listed in Saddle Up! Magazine’s online/printed editions up to 3 months

3) Shared to both Tri-State Horse Shows, Saddle Up! Magazine Facebook pages

MICHIGAN 4-H

Detroit youths ages 8-13 are invited to join an 8 week 4-H club to experience some of the many projects that 4-H has to offer! This free club will meet from 5:30pm-6:30pm on the second and fourth Wednesday of every month from May until August. Come experience a variety of projects and activities within 4-H and then, consider starting your own 4-H club at Detroit Partnership for Food, Learning and Innovation (DPFLI)! Have questions? Contact Wayne County 4-H Program Coordinator, Ashleigh Apel, apelashl@ msu.edu or call 734-727-7408.

MSU Extension’s Adulting 101 virtual programs help teenagers and young adults demystify the obscure reality of being an “adult” through free, educational, monthly sessions. Upcoming sessions in Adulting 101 include: How to Buy a Car on June 8, 4pm, Sew What: Clothing Care Saves Cash, July 13, 1pm, and Eating Healthy on a Budget, August 16, 1pm. For more details, email Katherine Jamieson at: jamies13@msu.edu

Mark your calendars, the Michigan State 4-H Horse Show will be August 18-20, 2023 at the MSU Pavilion. Over this threeday show, members selected by their county 4-H programs will compete in classes: dressage, English, western, trail, jumping, and gymkhana. The Michigan State Miniature Horse Show will be taking place over the same weekend, in the south barn.

For more information about Michigan 4H, please contact Taylor Fabus, 4-H Horse and Pony Extension Educator, by email at tenlenta@msu.edu

OHIO 4-H

A reminder for those that registered, the Ohio 4-H Sea Camp at Kelley's Island will be from July 14-18 for youth ages 15-17. Participants experience Lake Erie-based activities such as aquatic science, water recreation, and fishing Contact Jenny Strickler at strickler.60@osu.edu or Ashely Hughey at Hughey.28@osu.edu

July will be a busy month for Horse & Pony 4-H'ers in Ohio! The 4-H Horse Judging Contest will be on July 17 at the Ohio State Fairgrounds from 12pm until 4pm. Registration and payment deadline: June 30. Also on July 17, the 4-H Horse Skillathon will take place at the Voinovich Livestock Center Mezzanine 8am-12pm. Skillathons are open to any Ohio 4-H or FFA members ages 8 to 18. There will be four stations total, with usually 5 minutes per station.

The Ohio State Fair Junior Horse Show will be from July 17-21, at the Ohio Exposition Center, Columbus, Ohio. Exhibitors who qualify must submit their entries, requests for group stalling, the nonrefundable $50 stall fee online by 1pm on July 1. A special note that the Classical and Western Dressage show will be held in conjunction with the Ohio State Fair Junior Horse Show on July 20 all day at the same location, and with a $50 stall fee due on July 1. Stall assignments for the Ohio State Fair Junior Horse Show will be posted on July 14. Horses will be allowed to move in beginning at 2pm on July 16.

For more Ohio 4-H information, contact Dr. Kimberly Cole, Ohio State Extension Equine Specialist at cole.436@osu.edu

INDIANA 4-H

A reminder to the 2023 State 4-H Junior Leader Council Members: the 2023 State 4-H Junior Leader Conference will be held June 13-16 at DePauw University. The Conference theme is "Leadership Under Construction – Building Better Leaders". While at Jr. Leader Conference, you will participate in: skill sessions, State Park group meetings, general sessions, skits/ talent show, recreation, banquet and dance, and an installation ceremony for Jr Leader Council.

Listen up, Clay County Horse & Pony 4H'ers! The 4-H Horse & Pony Club will be meeting on June 15, 7pm-8pm at the Clay County 4-H Fairgrounds and the Clay County 4-H Council will meet on June 14, 7-8pm at the Fairgrounds. Also, Clay County Mini 4-H will have a meeting on June 19, 6pm-7pm. Clay County 4-H Fair week is July 15-22, 2023. Questions? Email: clayces@purdue.edu

Aloha – All Harrison County youth in grades K-2 are invited to a Mini 4-H Day Camp to Hawaii! Mini 4-H Day Camp will take place on July 12, 9am-3pm at the Harrison County Extension Office. Camp size will be limited, so please call the Extension Office at 812-738-4236.

4-H'ers in Elkhart County head to the Elkhart County 4-H Fairgrounds on the following dates for these June meetings: 4-H Saddle Club Junior Leaders, June 4 and July 2, from 7-9pm, 4-H Saddle Club Advisory Board Meeting, June 5, 8-9pm, and the 4-H Saddle Club Meeting on June 12 and July 10, 7:30-9pm. Questions? contact Ashley Holdeman at 574-3547403 or ashleyholdeman4h@yahoo.com

Questions? Contact Courtney Stierwalt, 4-H Youth Development Ext. Specialist, by email at: dickerso@purdue.edu

4-H IS A COMMUNITY FOR ALL KIDS – In 4-H, we believe in the power of young people. Wrien by Lisa Skylis, in collaboraon with Cindy Couturier, editor, Saddle Up! Magazine

An incredible opportunity to own your own equestrian paradise in Northern Michigan. Don & Ruth Willey have opened their expansive property to host 4H events, trail riding endurance courses, speed shows and more. They're moving with their family to Arizona and offering their beautiful facility to the highest bidders. Truly a rare opportunity! Real estate being offered in Multi-Parcel Auction format. Buyers can bid on individual parcels, the entire offering, or any combination. Please contact Leist Auctioneers at 833-323-2BID for questions regarding the auction process.

Frank Leist - Broker

Poco Bueno bred AQHA Geldings suitable for all levels of riders. Preifert Panel 6 Horse Walker – like new Saddles and Misc. Horse Tack. Exiss LQ 4 Horse Slant Load. Farm Equipment including New Holland Square Baler, Rock Rake, New Idea Manure Spreader Kubota BX2200 Compact Tractor with loader Belarus 572 with loader

NSBA Dual Approved Classes!

Therearecurrentlyapproximately155,000horses inMichigan,basedonthe last Equine Survey (2007). While these numbers may have decreased somewhat based on the recession, the use of horses in the state has not decreased,andinfactmaybeincreasing(personalobservation).Eachofthese animalsisinneedofregularhoofcare,withtrimmingrequiredevery6-8weeks andshoes(forthosewhoareshod)requiredonasimilarschedule.

Theoldadage“nofoot,nohorse”holds,inthatahorsewithoutregularhoof carebyaknowledgeableprofessional,isunlikelytobeofusetoitshumancaretakers.Further,mosthorsemenandwomenwouldratherhiresomeoneknowledgeabletodothisworkthantodoitthemselves.Finally,well-trainedfarriershavethepotentialtomakea decent living, as evidenced by “An American Farriers Journal survey in 2012 found that the national average annual salary for full-time farriers in the U.S. was reported to be $92,623 per year and for parttimers, $21,153. This amount is an average and varies according to experience level, training, etc.” (TheFarriersGuide.com)

TheproblemcurrentlyfacingthehorseindustryintheMidwestisthatthereiscurrentlynoreputablemeans by which to consistently produce well-trained farriers. Michigan residents wishing to pursue this line of work,haveneededtoleavethestateforextendedperiodsoftime.Untilnow.

Michigan State University offers the MSU Farrier School: Thisisa12or24-weekprogram,housedon theMSUHorseTeachingandResearchCenter,andwillbeledbyMSUalum,DavidHallock,CJF,ASF Students in the program will receive both hands-on and classroom-based instruction in hoof and farrier science, equine anatomy and physiology, basic welding, and business. The class runs8hoursperday,withtheintentionofproducingindividualspoisedtobewell trained,professionalfarrierstoservetheequineindustry

PhotoCredit: D.Hallock,A.Kampfer

8TH ANNUALSADDLE UP! MAGAZINE

Summer Contest DRAWING Kid’s 2023

TheownersofSaddleUp!Magazinewillchoosethreewinnersfromeachagegroup.All1st,2ndand3rd placeDRAWINGSwillbeprintedintheSeptember2023editionofSaddleUp!Magazine.Winnerswill benotifiedbyphoneoremailinadvance,andwillreceivetheirprizesviaprioritymail.

EntrydeadlineisJuly31st,2023.

In order for your drawing to be printed in Saddle Up! Magazine, please follow the instructions below for submitting your entry.

1) Large drawing on a 8.5”x11” piece of white paper

2) Use either black or blue ink (NO pencil drawings)

3) Do not fold your entry when mailing

4) Use a piece of cardboard to protect when mailing

5) If emailing, send a .jpg or PDF at 300 dpi

6) Make your drawing like a coloring page (see right)

7)Add as much detail as possible to your drawing

AGE GROUPSAND PRIZES:

Drawing Any drawings including a horse welcome!

Sample

ENTRY DEADLINE: JULY 31, 2023

Full Name

Age as of January 1st, 2023

Phone Number

Address City State Zip

EmailAddress T-Shirt Size

All entries must include the entry form above orALLof the information from the entry form. Mailed or emailed entries only. Children’s addresses/phone numbers will NOT be printed in Saddle Up! Magazine.

MailingAddress: 8415 Hogan Rd. Fenton, MI 48430

EmailAddress: saddleupmag@gmail.com

Advertise ALL your EQUINE EVENTS in Saddle Up! Magazine’s ONLINE editions for only $240 a year!

1. NO LIMIT to FULL COLOR flyers/showbill(s) added to our online monthly editions. All events will be listed in our advertisers directory (always on page 4) of the magazine.

2. INDIVIDUAL EVENT POSTS on both our Facebook pages: Tri-State Horse Shows and Saddle Up! Magazine (5.9K+ followers) multiple times before the event.

3. EVENTS added to our printed show & event date listings within the center of our magazine.

4. EVENT FLYERS/SHOWBILLS posted to our online calendar: https://saddleupmag.com/online-calendar

12 MONTH EQUINE EVENT SUBSCRIPTION

$240.00 ONLY

START ANYTIME YOU WISH, WE’LL KEEP TRACK OF YOUR ANNUAL EQUINE EVENT SUBSCRIPTION.

There is NO LIMIT to the number of events/showbills that can be placed in Saddle Up! Magazine’s online editions in the 12 month period, provided that they are equine related.

All artwork must be submitted camera ready, as either a .jpg or a PDF in full color Design services available for $20.00 per hour, if needed.

• Full page flyers: 8.5”w x 11”h

• Half page flyers: 8.5”w x 5.5”h

DEADLINE FOR ONLINE SUBMISSIONS: the 21st of the month for the following issue.

Email to Cindy Couturier at: saddleupmag@gmail.com

Saddle Up! Magazine’s online editions are viewed by 5,000+ readers per month.

We print 5,000+ copies of Saddle Up! Magazine monthly and mail to Michigan, Ohio, and Indiana equestrians.

All distributor copies are mailed to equine related businesses for free.

STILL NOT SURE? CHECK US OUT ONLINE!

Facebook Page – Saddle Up! Magazine

https://www.facebook.com/SaddleUpMagazine

Public Facebook Group – Tri-State Horse Shows

https://www.facebook.com/groups/199767135617599

Our Website – http://www.saddleupmag.com/

ONLINE ONLY

ADVERTISING DEADLINE: The 21st of the month for the following month’s issue.

or

1) ADD your show(s) to our NEW Google online calendar which will include your flyer or showbill.

2) LIST your show(s) in Saddle Up! Magazine’s appropriate PRINTED and ONLINE editions up to 3 months in advance.

3) SHARE your show(s) to both Tri-State Horse Shows Facebook group and Saddle Up! Magazine Facebook page.

July 21-23, 2023

Midland Co. Fairgrounds, Midland, MI

Please add Free Shows to subject line of your email.

JPG or PDF works great!

The Dressage Foundation Awards Carolyn Van Cise Fund Grant To Michigan Youth Rider, Kelsie Goodare

The Dressage Foundation is pleased to announce that the 2023 Carolyn Van Cise Memorial Sportsmanship Fund Grant has been awarded to Kelsie Goodare (MI). Kelsie was awarded the $1,000 grant because she exemplifies qualities that Carolyn Van Cise found most important in life, including a demonstration of positive sportsmanship.

Kelsie is a junior board member of All Dressage Association and a former Pony Clubber. She plans to use her grant funding to attend dressage and eventing clinics with Erica Janson and Boyd Martin. She maintains a 4.0+ GPA and trains with Laurie Moore and Kyleigh Christians.

Kelsie said, “I feel honored to be the 2023 recipient of TDF’s Carolyn Van Cise Fund Grant for Michigan Youth. I am incredibly grateful to have this opportunity to be able to participate in additional dressage and eventing clinics this year This will help me to improve my skills and work towards my goals of competing at 2nd Level dressage, and to qualify for the American Eventing Championships. Thank you so much to TDF for giving me this amazing opportunity. “

For more information about the Carolyn Van Cise Memorial Sportsmanship Fund or The Dressage Foundation, please contact Sara Weiss at (402) 434-8585, by email at sara@ dressagefoundation.org, or visit www.dressagefoundation.org

The Dressage Foundation is a 501(c)(3), non-profit, taxexempt, donor-driven organization that is dedicated to educating, supporting, and advancing the sport of dressage. The organization solicits contributions, appropriately allocates the donations, and awards grants to dressage riders, judges, instructors, breeders, high-performance teams, nonprofit equestrian organizations, and more.

“The horse, with beauty unsurpassed, strength immeasurable & grace unlike any other, still remains humble enough to carry a man upon his back.” ~ Amber Senti

Promote your equine related business and save hard earned dollars while doing it! Commit to running an ad in Saddle Up! Magazine for three months in 2023 (does not need to be consecutive), and we will print your ads in full color for Free! Savings could be as high as $75.00 per ad, depending on your ad size. If you’ve never ran an ad in Saddle Up! Magazine, now is the time to give us a try!

Advertise for 3 mons in 2023, receive each ad printed in full color for free!

DEADLINES: The 16th of the month for the following issue.

THE FINE PRINT: New advertisers only No other discounts are available with this offer. Ads must be prepaid monthly.

810.714.9000 | Email: saddleupmag@gmail.com | https://saddleupmag.com/

5,000+ PRINTED MONTHLY ISSUES 5,000+ ONLINE MONTHLY READERS MAILED FIRST CLASS & PRIORITY MAIL PUBLISHING FOR 25+ YEARS!

If you are a distributor of Saddle Magazine with a storefront, have we got a deal for you!

Holding an open house, an anniversary sale, or any other special event at your location?

Now you can advertise it within Saddle Up! Magazine’s online edition for FREE!

* Limit one free full page, full color ad per month, per location. *

DEADLINES:

Camera Ready: 21st of the month for the following issue. If design is needed: 16th for the next issue.

THE FINE PRINT: Available to distributors with storefronts only. Horse shows/expos excluded.

HORSE

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DROP OFF/PICK UP LOCATIONS: Brighton, Holly, Highland, MI

page 50% OFF 12 Months

AD SIZE: 3.43” wide x 2.16” high | Full Color (RGB) PAYMENT: Pre-paid $390 or pre-paid $130 for three consecutive months (all credit cards/PayPal accepted). DEADLINES: The 16th of the month for the following months issue.

BARN

13 ACRES: Buy your own private barn with indoor arena between Davison and Lapeer, near I-69. Currently 5 stalls (1 double stall, 1 foaling stall), ofce, tack room on one side of the arena. Other aisleway has large run in area and plenty of space to add additional stalls. Ample hay storage including loft areas on both sides of the arena. Indoor arena has new footing and is approx. 70x64 and has a deck next to tack room that could be a viewing area. 2019: NEW metal roof, NEW asphalt ooring in aisleway between stalls, NEW ooring in stalls. Barn was painted in 2020. Stall mats and fencing needed, otherwise turnkey for horses. Barn has water/electric. 13 acres has woods, crops and plenty of room to build a home in the future. Great hunting property!

Call either Lori Ross 810.279.8609 or Susan Baumgartner 517.404.6511

horse barn for 2 to 10 horses in Livingston County and surrounding areas!

HORSE FARMS, FARMLAND & RESIDENTIAL PROPERTIES IN MICHIGAN

Equine Small Business Spotlight: Custom Conchos and Tack, LLC

By Lisa Skylis | email: skylisli@msu.edu

Are you ready to turn your horse hobby into an equine small business? Do you have what it takes to turn your passion into a career? Whether your dream business is a tack shop, freelance photography, a boarding barn, or anything else, it's crucial to learn how to set your business up for success before launching and learn from those who've already made the leap. The goal of this Equine Small Business Series is to guide you through the process of becoming a small business, be a resource for growing and maintaining your small business, and give real-life advice from equine professionals with an established small business. Read on and let's get to business!

It Began With Bling

A horse lover from birth, Tammy Cox grew up spending every hour she could with her childhood equines and was heavily involved in her local 4-H Horse & Pony program. Smitten with the equestrian world, she soon understood that horses would not just be a hobby, but a lifelong passion and career for her. As Tammy's dedication to starting her own equine small business grew, so did her talent for creating show-stopping, crystalcovered custom tack and conchos. “The crystal work,” Tammy explained, “is what started it all. It all started because I had a number of friends that are bigger ladies and trying to find a really nice shirt to show in was not so easy. I started at home where I do a lot of crystal work on clothes, tack, buckles, etc. Now I am known as the rhinestone saddles lady!”

Just outside of Mansfield, Ohio, Custom Conchos and Tack LLC was officially launched in as a small business in 2012. The family-run business purchased their current building, roughly between Cleveland and Columbus, in 2014 and recently acquired two mobile tack store trailers. Now, Custom Conchos and Tack is known for their wide saddle selection, flashy custom tack, fairly-priced show rental clothes, and stellar customer service. “We are able to provide one of a kind work on any budget.” Tammy continued, “Being able to provide a million dollar look without the million-dollar price tag. If you just can't part with that oldie but goodie saddle, I can overhaul and makeover used tack too!”

Contributing to the Community

While the initial investment is steep, after a few years, the perks of owning and operating your own equine tack and clothing store will begin to reveal themselves. After all, no one goes into any part of the horse industry to get rich – it's the passion that fuels you. When asked what her favorite part of operating a custom clothing business is, Tammy was quick to say that it's the community, not the money, that keep her coming back for more. “Meeting amazing people,” Tammy elaborated, “And helping out all levels of horse showing and budgets! It's not just owning a tack store, it's about being that shoulder to cry on when someone's having a very sad day. Finding affordable ways to help out everyone we can. And we are huge supporters of 4-H

youth. We donate at least $1,000 a year for 4-H show awards and prizes.”

“Yes, it's great to make money but it's also great to meet the needs of our customers as they mean everything to us. The best equine businesses go the extra mile for our customers. They can truly see that we care about our customers and their equine friends!” She explained, “We offer flexible layaway, we give a discount to 4-H/FFA members, and have a rewards program for shopping with us. Every year, on the third Saturday of October, we do a customer appreciation day We give away about $2,000 worth of tack and merchandise and we provide a full dinner. This is our way of saying thank you to all our customers!”

When asked what the best investment (financial, time, or otherwise) that someone could make when starting out their business, Tammy was clear in her answer “Inventory!” The owner of Custom Conchos and Tack emphasized, “If you don't have a huge inventory it's very hard to make it. You must change with the times and, in some cases, you must change the styles about every six months to every year Tack is expensive; this is why so many businesses change over to boutique and leave the tack behind. Not here: we carry around 150-200 saddles in our store and on our trailers!”

Taking your Tack Business on the Road

When it came to reaching new customers, Custom Conchos and Tack went beyond basic advertising strategies and thought outside of the box. Be on the lookout for their bespoke mobile store on the grounds of many of Ohio's cowboy mounted shooting club events, breed shows, and county fairs! Custom Concho and Tack's mobile shop is available to set up at Ohio events or shows for no charge and often donates items for topscoring competitors at the show. As an added bonus, the event's showbill will be advertised on the equine small business' website, Google ads, in-store, and on social media. The mobile tack store can be customized to cater to the event's equestrians – whether they are cowboy mounted shooters, elegant hunter jumpers, or fiery barrel racers.

Often found at well-attended Ohio events such as the Knox County Fair and all of the Ohio Paint Horse Club's shows, this mobile store was Tammy's innovative approach connecting with a new audience of equestrians. “I had some friends that really wanted us to set up at their horse shows and fairs,” Tammy reasoned. “We just added a trailer for our second mobile store. So, now we are one big store and two mobile trailers!”

Looking to the Future

Unfortunately, the equine world is notoriously one of high effort for low profit and even long-established equine businesses will admit it can be a challenging balancing act. Tammy had some sage advice to offer to anyone still uncertain about launching their own custom equine clothes and tack store. “It's not as easy as you think. It's one of the hard businesses to make stick.” She encouraged future tack store owners, “But, it's a lot of fun! You should care about everyone that comes through your doors, weather they buy or not. It's all about their needs!”

As for Tammy, when she looks to the future, she has a clear vision for Custom Conchos and Tack, LLC. “Anything is possible!” She continued, “We now have two trailers for mobile horse stores. We are working on our online store and hope to have that up and running this summer.” Whatever the future holds, Tammy is proud to have funneled her passion for dressing equestrians in style and is looking forward to bringing the bling to her community, for years to come.

Sources: Thank you to Tammy Cox from Custom Conchos and Tack, LLC for allowing me to interview her, for her insight into the equine industry, and for the wonderful photos. If you live in Ohio and would like to see their saddlery in person, please stop by 2074 Ashland Road in Mansfield, Ohio 44905 or keep an eye out at your next horse show for their mobile store.

Sources for this article include a 2022 article from IBIS World titled “Clothing Boutiques in the US-Employment Statistics.” Extension Horses maintains a host of equine business-related articles from their Equine Business Network, visit: https://horses.extension.org/

2074 Ashland Rd., Mansfield, Ohio 44905 (567) 560-4457

Email: customconchosandtack@gmail.com

https://www.facebook.com/Customconchosandtack/

Lisa Skylis graduated from Michigan State University with a degree in Animal Science. She is a professional freelance writer. Lisa’s work largely focuses on the equine industry When she’s not writing, Lisa can be found doting on the horses at her local therapeutic riding barn or entertaining her mischievous Golden Retriever, Roy Freelance inquiries can be sent to skylisli@msu.edu

Saturday Night Pizza Party Added Money Sweepstakes Classes

MI Apple Blossom Prize Drawings

Daily & Year End High Point Awards

2023 MICHIGAN APPLE BLOSSOM CLASSIC OPEN SHOWSS

MAY 12-14 JULY 7-9

5/13 Jeff Moody, 5/14 Brian Craig Judges: Tim Abler & Kara Gerard Judges: TBA & Kathy Motycka

SEPTEMBER 22-24 MSU Agriculture Pavilion, East Lansing, MI

Stalls Reservations: mabcstalls@gmail.com or 517-655-4712

• Find Us On Facebook: Michigan Apple Blossom Classic

7 PM Friday Trail Classes 57-62 • 8 AM Saturday/Sunday Classes 1-56 • Arrival Starting Noon Friday – NO EARLY ARRIVALS

Sweepstakes Halter Open

Mares at Halter All Ages 3) Geldings & Stallions at Halter All Ages

5) Stock Horse Color Breed/Other Halter

6) Ranch Horse Conformation (Ineligible for Grand/Reserve) Grand and Reserve Champion Halter

7) Two-Year-Old & Under Longe Line**

8) Peewee Showmanship 11 & Under**

9) Walk/Trot Showmanship 12 & Over**

10) Sweepstakes Showmanship - $100 ADDED 11) Showmanship 13 & Under

33) Hunt Seat Pleasure 50 & Over

34) Sweepstakes SR Hunt Seat Pleasure & Over - $100 ADDED

35) Peewee Western Pleasure 11 & Under**

36) Peewee Western Horsemanship 11 & Under**

37) Walk/Trot Western Horsemanship 12 & Over**

38) Sweepstakes Western Horsemanship OPEN - $100 ADDED

39)

NOHSA Horsemanship Medal Class (tentative) %

45)

# May not show in any other classes.

** Walk/Trot rider or Novice horse may not show in any canter/lope classes.

@ May cross enter pleasure age group classes. % MUST be NOHSA member Trail Classes 57-62 run Friday Evening ONLY. Trail counts for Saturday High Pt.

Classes entered at the gate instead of the office will be subject to an entry fee of 1 ½ class fee.

MUST BE PRESENT to win random drawing awards.

Year End High Point eligibility requires min. of 4 shows & High Point Fees.

CLASS FEES

$7 All Ages ($10 if entered @ gate) All Stalls $50 (all horses must be stalled) $10 Sweepstakes ($15 if @ gate) Camping – $30/Night

Daily High Point Fee $5 Office Fee for EACH Horse/Rider $10

* Valid driver’s license MUST accompany ALL checks & credit cards *

Returned/NSF check or credit card will incur a $35 fee in addition to bill. Major credit cards accepted: 3.75% Convenience Fee • NO REFUNDS for dropped/missed classes or early pullouts – PLEASE plan accordingly

* NO SMOKING ALLOWED * ALL DOGS MUST BE LEASHED *

THANK YOU 2023 SPONSORS!

Show management reserves the right to cancel, combine, divide classes or shows, or refuse any entry, check, or tab. Fees are subject to change without notification. Judge’s decision is final. WARNING: Russell Training Center LLC and/or individuals assisting at these events shall not be individually or collectively responsible for any loss, damage, or injury to any person(s), horses (s) or property in connection with this event. Michigan Equine Activity Liability Act 1994 PA 351; An equine professional is not liable for an injury to or the death of a participant in an equine activity resulting from an inherent risk of the equine activity Completion of the Entry Forms for these events or entering the show grounds at the time of the event constitutes waiver of liability beyond the provisions of this act and such waiver shall be valid and binding.