October 2022 Saddle Up! Magazine

13 Acres | Possible Land Contract Terms: Buy your own private barn with indoor arena between Davison and Lapeer, near I-69. Currently 5 stalls (1 idouble stall, 1 foaling stall), office, 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. 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 flooring in aisleway between stalls, NEW flooring 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

STOP PAYING BOARD, OWN YOUR OWN ARENA!

PALM PARTNERSHIP TRAINING

The Right Equine 'Dance Partner’

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

You and your partner touch. With almost imperceptible signals you dance together. Your steps are light, your turns graceful and balanced. There is trust between you as you confidently master more difficult maneuvers. You move as one with your horse in beauty, in the partnership called “riding.”

You may be a trail rider or barrel racer, ride hunt seat or Western Dressage or Western. Whatever your passion, there is no greater reward than learning how to dance in partnership with your horse. This comes from the rider knowing herself and having confidence and skill built through experience. With this knowledge, unre stricted communication and feelings can flow between rider and horse allowing them to bond as one.

A partnership with a horse is different than any other sport or hobby. No other animal has such a relationship with humans. Only the horse allows us to sit on its back and yields in partnership to us. It is a team effort between horse and rider based on love, acceptance, respect, and kindness.

Summer is a great time for riders to go back to the basics to learn how to create a more successful partnership with their horses. The first step is to understand your equine partner's personality Some horses, like human dance partners, are more sensitive than others. Some have more knowledge; others need training.

Do horses really desire love from us? It depends on the horse's per sonality. Some horses seem to crave attention from humans. Other horses are more aloof. Just like with any partnership, the match of personalities between each partner is critical in making them a successful team.

The horse and rider can bring out the best, and the worst, in their partnership. Not all horse and rider combinations are properly suited or "matched" to each other A mismatch can lead to frus tration, and compromise safety for both horse and rider.

Whether you are riding as a hobby or have goals of serious comp etition, finding the right match is the most important ingredient in forming a successful horse and rider partnership. You must get the right partner in order to ride safely, have fun, achieve your goals.

I would like you to evaluate how your personality and level of exper ience matches with those of your horse. When you ask your equine partner to dance, whether your dance is a trail ride or a barrel pattern, are you getting positive responses? Does your horse respond to you consistently, with confidence and respect? Or is he dis obedient, sullen, and disrespectful of you?

Your next step is to search for the right equine personality for you. Look for a horse that is interested in its surroundings, whose ears are pricked forward, and whose soft eye shows interest, not alarm. It is the horse with the positive attitude. It is a partner who will be able to do many different disciplines and will make riding fun.

Riding is like dancing It takes two to tango. As you and your horse grow together in experience and skill, you will form a partnership that will bring you pleasure and fun. It is a partnership built on understanding and respect, the principles that make dressage the basis for all riding In my next article, I will share some tips on how to find the “right” equine partner So let the dance begin!

To learn more about selecting a horse, the importance of confor mation to function, and how to build the foundation for a successful partnership, my video "Hunter Under Saddle" can help. I made it several years ago, but it includes timeless tips on how to select and start a young horse. You will follow me as I analyze the athleticism of several young horses and point out desirable and undesirable performance characteristics that are especially important for a show horse. You will learn the step-by-step training process from starting a horse up to the first ride. This 90-minute video is chock full of training lessons you can teach your young horse or use as a refresher to improve your horse's performance. Visit my website www.lynnpalm.com and click on "Products" to learn how you can improve your partnership with your horse.

To learn more, visit http://www.lynnpalm.com/ or call 800-5032824. Lynn can also be found on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Hints For Your Horse's Joint Health

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

If you have had a horse for, oh, five minutes or so, you have probably been offered some sort of opportunity to “help” your horse's joint, usually by means of some product.

There are three things that all joint health products seem to have in common:

1) All of them claim to be fantastic.

2) None of them have actually been shown to prevent osteo arthritis (inflammation and deterioration of a joint).

3) All of them make horse owning more expensive (something I have never heard any horse owner express enthusiasm for).

So, with those three things in mind, I thought we might want to briefly talk about horse joints, and then talk about a few things that you can do to help keep them healthy: things that 1) actually do some good and 2) do not cost you anything

What is a joint? Simple. A joint is any place where two or more bones meet and are joined together.

Are there different kinds of joints? Yes. That is one reason why it can be difficult to talk about “joint health” as if it were one single thing. There are actually six types of joints, which is a great trivia fact but one that does not otherwise do you or your horse any good. Basically, joints can be rigid, like the joints between the bones in the skull, or movable, like knees, hips, and shoulders. The moveable ones tend to get the most attention, which is understandable, because they tend to cause the most problems.

What are the important parts of a joint? Bones provide support for the entire weight of the horse's body and helps to form the body shape that we call “horse.”

Different Kinds of Horses, Different Kinds of Joints. Many joints, especially those that move, have cartilage on the ends of the bones where they meet. Healthy cartilage helps the horse move by allowing the bones to glide over one another It also protects bones by preventing them from rubbing against each other.

Moving joints, and their cartilage, are surrounded by a joint capsule. On the inner surface of the joint capsule (as well inside the sheath that surrounds some tendons – another story), there is a synovial membrane that produces a synovial (joint) fluid and maintains that fluid by removing wear-and-tear debris. The synovial fluid is a thick, golden-colored liquid that lubricates joints and keeps them moving smoothly Synovial fluid is a filtrate of blood plasma that enters the joint space from the small blood vessels of the synovial membrane. Joint conditions such as arthritis and infections can change how the synovial fluid looks and feels.

Ligaments are fibrous structures that attach bone to bone. They can be both inside the joint or outside the joint and they usually serve to hold the bones together and help keep them stable.

Seven proven tips to keep horse joints healthy:

Keep your horse moving. Regular exercise helps your horse keep the muscles around joints strong, helps to decrease bone loss with age, and can help control both joint swelling and pain. Regular exer cise also replenishes lubrication to the joint cartilage of the joint and helps keep limbs more supple. Otherwise stated, do not let your horse stand around too much. The more free movement a horse has, the better it is for the health of his joints.

Keep him at a good weight. The more weight that your horse has to carry, the more stress there is on the joints. It should not be too hard to keep a horse at a good weight, especially if you pay attention to how much feed you are giving him. Ideal body condition is where you can easily feel the ribs: maybe even see them a little bit. Seeing the ribs a little bit is okay, although you might occasionally run into someone who will tell you that your horse is “too thin.” Just smile and ignore them.

Warm up before exercise. Do not take your horse out for an immediate gallop. Let him walk around for a while (my mare, Piper, walks for a minimum of 15 minutes before she gets to do anything else). Letting your horse warm up slowly, gradually revs up his heart rate and body temperature, and gets blood flowing to the muscles. This can help decrease muscle soreness and lessen the risk of injury By the way, stretching is not necessarily good, and, if you are going to try to do it to your horse, it is better to do it after your horse is warmed up.

Lower impact exercise is better Horses are big animals. Really big That means that their joints take a lot of pounding The more that you pound on the joints, the harder it is on them. That is why, as much as you can, try not to work your horse's joints too hard. Walking is better than running – in fact, in my opinion, the walk is the most underrated and underappreciated gait of the horse. Jump ing every once in a while is fine – jumping every day is not. Piaffe, perhaps, but not persistently. Roll back some of the rollbacks. You get the idea. Your horse will not forget how to do his job and his joints will stay healthier Rest stressed or injured joints. It is just a fact that horses –particularly those horses that compete in various disciplines – can occasionally stress or strain their joints. It happens to human athletes at all levels, from the backyard softball players to profess ional soccer players (and pretty much everyone else). In the horse world, it is tempting to give horses a shot of this, an injection of that, or a tablespoon of the other, in hopes of speeding up improving outcomes when a joint gets stressed (mainly by trying to reduce inflammation). However, the number one thing that injured joints need is time to rest and recover No pill, powder, or potion can keep a joint from getting injured, nor can it replace the needed time for recovery. There are no miracles when it comes to joint health but there is a lot of unwelcome noise.

Avoid repetitive stress. You can bend a paper clip once and it will be OK Keep bending it again and again and it will eventually snap. Joints and joint tissues are like that, too. They are pretty resilient, however, you can not just keep pushing and pushing them. So, if

you want your horse to jump, just do not do it very often (you may need the reminders but he will be okay). Vary his exercise regimen, as well – it will keep his mind fresher and his body in better condition. Do not keep pushing and pushing and pushing It is a recipe for disaster, both mentally and physically.

Do not believe everything you read. The horse world is full of joint solutions that are not it.

Here are a few things to look out for:

In some circles, there is a belief that horses need periodic injections of various substances to keep their joints healthy This is medically unnecessary. Horse joints are not like car engines and joint fluid is not the same as engine oil. The practice of injecting healthy horses for “maintenance” subjects horses to unnecessary risks with no known benefit, at a sure cost for the horse's owner. Just Say No.

Joint supplements are rarely tested, neither for content nor effectiveness, and there is little evidence that they do anything, even after decades of use and advertisement. Save your money

Even FDA-approved medications promoted for joint health have little evidence for significant effects. In addition, now that they are approved, no one is really bothering to test them anymore. There are also lots of unapproved medications in the horse world, and for those, the evidentiary situation is even worse.

There are a variety of expensive experimental therapies out there (PRP, stem cells, etc.). None are FDA approved, none have a body of evidence showing their effectiveness, and all have the potential to cause harm. The things that they have in common is that they are expensive and none has been shown to either improve outcomes or shorten the time to recovery if a horse's joint is injured. Ask for the

What is the bottom line?

Honestly, the most effective strategies for joint health in your horse are relatively mundane, maybe even boring. However, no therapy or product has been shown to prevent or delay the progression of joint disease and no therapy or product can prevent the predictable bad results of overuse or mismanagement. When it comes to the health of your horse's joints, why not just be boring, do a few things that have been shown to be effective, and save money in the long run?

evidence supporting a proposed therapy before you turn your horse into an experiment that you get to pay for https://www.doctorramey.com/

Dr. David Ramey began veterinary practice in 1984, in the Los Angeles area of southern California. He has been providing outstanding care to horses in southern California 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. Mon-Fri 10am-3pm 517.300.7095 Rd., Fenton,

Dr. Ramey believes that compassionate care involves providing therapies for which there is good scientific evidence of effective ness. It is not compassionate to simply offer to sell someone the latest unproven therapeutic nostrum, nor is it kind to the horse to simply pull out therapies and give them a try, just because it is something to do. True compassion – for horse and horse owner – involves adhering to high ethical standards, and high standards of scientific evidence in choosing therapies.

5-Star Rating From Your Farrier

By Julie Goodnight | https://juliegoodnight.com/

As a kid, I rode show hunters, and back then most of them were offthe-track Thoroughbreds – notorious for their shelly, thin feet and the tendency to lose a shoe right before an important show I learned the value of having a great relationship with my farrier at a very young age; it was the main reason I learned to make brownies.

I started getting paid to ride horses at 18 (and under the table a couple years before that), riding racehorses throughout college. After four decades as a horse trainer, I still know this to be true: Top rate veterinary and farrier care for my horses is critical to my success as a horse trainer.

My personal farrier, Carey Gunderman, told me, “When the farrier, vet, and trainer are all on the same team, the horse usually wins. We don't always have to agree, but we have mutual respect for one another and work together in the horse's best interest, and usually with the best possible outcome for the horse.”

In the very best of circumstances (well-mannered horse, good handler, nice facility), being a farrier is an extremely difficult and hazardous job. I have a tremendous amount of respect and empathy for farriers, and I understand that my horses and I are the beneficiaries of their demanding occupation.

Having grown up near horse racing in the horse country of central Florida, I was always around top-level farriers, but after moving to the rural southwest, I discovered top-level farriers don't grow on trees. It was the same with equine vets and medical doctors, who tended to be in the metro areas. Don't get me wrong–we have some of the best farriers in the country in my neck of the woods–but skilled practitioners are fewer and further between, and I want the very best working on my horses.

Whether it is a local farrier who helps me out of a jam when I am on the road, a colleague that stands in for my regular farrier in a pinch, or my dedicated farrier on a routine trip, I have the utmost respect for their safety and do my best to take good care of them.

Responsible horse stewardship includes managing this critical aspect of your horse's care with proper etiquette, attention to safe ty, a well-mannered horse, and a responsible handler (If you've read comments online about a horse owner being ghosted by their farrier, lacking any of these things could be why.)

In this article, I share what I think are the most important things you can do to maintain a great working relationship with your farrier –and to make sure you and your horse are their favorite clients.

Be respectful of a professional's time. Have your horse ready early – caught, clean, and waiting for the farrier. The horse's legs should be clean and DRY (wet legs are worse than dirty legs).

Provide a comfortable and safe work space. A flat, clean work space, protected from the elements. There should be enough space to keep safe when a horse gets squirrely, but a solid wall can come in handy for keeping an anxious horse still. Many farriers also need access to water and power. Try to put a pause on unnecessary activities in the area during your appointment (i.e. not a good time to run a weed-eater), and keep dogs and kids (haha) leashed.

Understand and appreciate the farrier's personal risk. It is not your farrier's job to train the horse, and they are the most likely to get hurt by an untrained or ill-mannered horse. The simplest wreck could ruin your farrier's career – or at the very least, render him un-

able to make a living for a while. It is your responsibility as the horse owner to make sure your horse has safe/reliable ground manners.

Hold the horse. Do not tie it. Working under a tied horse is not safe and may lead to huge wrecks. Always stand on the same side of the horse as the farrier and monitor the horse's behavior closely.

Never allow a horse to put his mouth anywhere near the farrier It is not cute. All farriers have been bitten from behind. This is rude and unsafe behavior, which tends to get progressively worse. You only have one job – control the horse.

Manage the flies. Between the stomping, head tossing, and whip ping tail, a farrier's work is much harder when the flies are bad. Manage the flies in your barn, tie the tail up if necessary, and use fly spray that your farrier approves of (they are the ones soaking it in on their skin).

Have payment ready, and don't question the fees after the fact The cheapest horseshoer out there is expensive, and a master farrier doing a complicated job costs a small fortune. Get over it. Try doing their job for one day and you will see neither one of them make enough money.

Expectations of the Horse's Behavior

The ideal horse stands perfectly still and squarely on all four legs. The horse should lift the foot when asked, then relax and allow its foot and leg to be manipulated by the farrier, and patiently hold the leg up while balancing on the other three feet without leaning or fidgeting The perfect horse also allows the farrier to slowly place the foot down to the ground, not jerking or stomping it down as soon as you start to let go.

That last part is important, and it is a precedent that can be set very early in the young horse's training. Whatever the age, I want to teach the horse to allow me to hold the foot all the way down and place it on a specific mark. Not only is this good manners, but there are many horse management practices (from x-rays to foot soaking to measuring for hoof boots) where this skill will come in handy

Again, it is the farrier's job to take care of the feet of the horse – not to train the horse to behave properly. That is the job of a horse trainer – and the responsibility of the horse owner And remember, anyone who handles or rides a horse is training them (for better or worse), because horses never stop learning.

Training a totally raw horse to stand quietly for a farrier can be a vigorous and dangerous process. Seek help from an expert if you need to. It is your responsibility to get the help you need to make sure the horse is safe and well-mannered – for its own health and well-being, as well as the farrier's.

Training Your Horse for the Farrier

Basic ground manners for the horse include:

• Controlling the feet

• Standing still when asked

• Respecting boundaries, and keeping its nose in front of its chest while being handled

I have written, talked, videoed, demonstrated, cajoled, and pleaded a lot on this subject, and there is plenty of information for you on my Academy website.

Right now, I will talk about a training progression that is specific to safely handling the legs and feet, and preparing your horse for the farrier. Whether the horse is young and unknowing, a mature horse without any previous training, or a horse that has developed unsafe manners due to trauma or poor handling, these are the steps I would take to insure the horse is a solid citizen for the farrier.

Desensitize to leg touching and brushing until the horse stands still and is comfortable with the touch of both hands and different types of brushes. For a mature horse that has never been touched or does not want its legs handled, this can be a huge step. My video about desensitizing legs with a hyper sensitive Thoroughbred mare can give you more insight.

Next, I teach the horse to shift its weight off and lift the foot on cue, AND to relax and keep the foot up until it is released. Bear in mind that teaching a horse to pick up the foot is easy, and it happens fast. Teaching the horse to patiently hold its leg up and relinquish control of it to you is decidedly not easy. These two skills should be taught at the same time, and if you do the former without the latter, you end up training the horse to jerk its foot away – and making matters worse. This is not always an easy job, and it can be quite animated, especially on a larger and/or reactive horse. Done right, it happens fast. Done poorly, you end up teaching the horse bad things. If you are unsure about this process, consider getting expert help.

Allow the horse time to learn how to balance on three feet, and that it won't kill them. Ignore any fussing and move along with the horse as they move without releasing the foot until it settles. Don't try to hold the horse still or scold it, just hold the foot high with the toe flexed up. Only release the foot when the horse is still and relaxed. Help the horse find the release by putting its foot down (not dropping it) immediately when the horse relaxes. With good timing on the release, the horse learns to hold still and relax fast. Pick up and hold the feet repeatedly (working on one leg at a time), holding it a little longer each time.

If the horse is struggling to take its foot back, hold the foot high with the toe pointed straight up. That will make it harder for the foot to stamp down. If the horse gets its foot back just keep reaching for the leg and pick it back up immediately – keeping the pressure on until it relaxes.

The horse should learn to stand up and balance on three feet as you hold one foot up and steady the horse. If the horse begins to lean on you, slowly bend down with the horse, lower and lower, holding the foot toe-up, then suddenly remove your support and drop the horse, so it has to pick itself back up or fall down. Horses hate to fall, so even the thought of falling discourages the leaning behavior Done right, this technique will eliminate leaning the very first time the horse tries it.

Once a horse is well-trained for routine foot handling, I introduce what the farrier does – squeezing the leg between my knees, pulling the legs to the side more (be gentle), manipulating the foot, rasping

and tapping The way the farrier manipulates the legs and feet for trimming and shoeing is different from the way we handle the feet for daily cleaning. These are positions and sensations the horse must be comfortable with before it's ready for the farrier

Young horses (foals and weanlings), will probably not need their feet trimmed for a while, but they can get acquainted with the farrier while still on the mare. I want the foal to stand with the mare as her feet are trimmed, taking it all in, contained and waiting patiently, and to make friends with the farrier. Long before its first trim, the foal will become familiar with the farrier and the sounds and sights.

If a mature horse comes for training that has never had its legs handled or stood for the farrier, I still want the first experience to be positive, both for my horse and for my farrier – I want them BOTH left with a good impression of each other I will hold off the farrier as long as possible until I get the horse desensitized and trained.

I always tell people that one of the kindest things you can do for your horse is to teach it to have good ground manners. Armed with these skills, your horse will always be treated kindly by vets, farriers, barn workers, etc., and will have a safe and secure future.

All horses need regular foot care from a qualified farrier Finding and keeping a great farrier can be a challenge in the best of circumstances. Once found, I want to make sure I keep up my end of the bargain by being the best client they have, so on that rare occasion when I have a big ask or an urgent need, I know they will be there for me and my horses.

Best wishes, Julie

Visit Julie online at: https://juliegoodnight.com/ and stay in touch by following @JulieGoodnight on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter

Is Your Truck Ready?

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

Your truck. Unless you are one of the fortunate few, your horses are not leaving home without a vehicle to pull your horse trailer. Despite the care you give your truck and trailer, you never know when they might give you some mechanical trouble. Unarguably, one of those times could be while you are in the middle of nowhere. The views might be gorgeous, but seeing a broken-down truck when cell phone signal bars are not in the picture is less pleasant.

Despite regular maintenance and thorough checks before each trip, I have had or been around urgent needs for emergency roadside help three times this past year. Each time I was far removed from cell phone service, let alone a repair shop; I was on my own. Fortunately, I carry tools in my truck for such occasions.

Although roadside assistance services are helpful, they are pricey and can be pretty slow to arrive. Getting help is even more comp licated if you are stuck in a remote location. That, of course, is assuming that you have cell service. Having the tools on hand to make repairs takes a lot of the wonders and “what ifs” out of your towing adventures.

Over the past decades, I've settled on 34 items with a permanent home in my truck.

The 4 Essentials:

• Fire extinguisher – Keep a small fire from getting out of control.

• Jumper cables – Save the day if your leave your headlights on.

• Jump starter battery pack – Save the day if you leave your headlights on and are on your own.

• First Aid Kit – Be your own doctor until a real one can arrive.

The 10 Tools:

• Phillips head and flat-bladed screwdrivers – Tighten and loosen screws and prying items apart.

• Pliers – Hold stuff while installing, removing, or squeezing items together

• Channel-lock pliers – Dealing with big machine nuts or turning pipes.

• Adjustable Crescent wrench – Tighten and loosen bolts and machine nuts.

• Claw hammer – Straighten what got bent, bend what got straightened, drive nails and stakes, pull them out again, and provide “persuasion” where needed.

• Pocket knife – Cut rope and twine, strip wire insulation, or just carve if you are inclined.

• Wire cutters – Cut electrical wire or turn metal coat hangers into marshmallow skewers.

• Small tape measure – Determine how much ground clearance you will have while getting over a boulder embedded in the road.

• Mini hacksaw – Cut away twisted bolts, damaged metal work, and thicker plastics. Anything where a knife will not work.

• Folding tree saw – Remove trees that have fallen across the only road home, and backing up is not an option.

3 Things to Keep Stuff Together:

• Glue – Glue will not mend a broken heart, but it will fix lots of other things and can keep a situation from going from bad to worse.

· Zip ties – Bundle bits and bobs and keep them out of the way

· Duct tape – A universal fix-it that is good for any repair.

5 Things to Help Keep the Lights On:

Nothing is more aggravating than trailer lights blinking on and off on their own or having a police officer pull you over because a brake light is out.

· Electrical tape – Prevent sparks and keep fuses from blowing.

· Spare Fuses in various amperage ratings – Replace blown fuses on your power panel.

· Spare bulbs for brake, turn and running lights –Save yourself from a traffic violation or worse.

· Head-mounted LED flashlight – Work in the dark where you need both hands free

· Multi-meter – Rapidly identify electrical problems.

9 Tire Changing Tools:

· Roadside Triangles – Be seen if you have to change a tire on the side of the road. Get at least 3 that are DOT approved.

· Reflective safety vest – Be seen if you have to change a tire on the side of the road.

· Wheel chocks – Keep the vehicle from rolling when you do not want it to.

· Trailer aid – An easier way to lift a trailer for changing a tire.

· Lug wrench – Change that tire.

· Why carry a breaker bar instead of a cordless impact wrench for lug nuts? Simply put, a length of pipe is not only much less expensive than a battery-powered gadget, but it also cannot fail. A pipe has no batteries to check on and nothing to break.

· Can of Fix a Flat – A temporary tire fix until you can get into a repair shop.

· Gloves – Keep your hands in one piece while making repairs.

· Tire pressure gauge – Make sure your tires are ready to roll.

· Portable air compressor – Inflate flats the easy way.

3 Miscellaneous Items I Won't Go Without:

· Multi Tool – Solves a million and one everyday problems.

· Permanent Marker – Marking your things and keeping track of which wire is which.

· Communications Device other than a cell phone – These can get help when there are no bars on the phone.

Everyone has run into truck or trailer trouble on the road. Perhaps someone was around to help, or maybe you were lucky and had cellular service. But what do you do when you are in the middle of nowhere? By investing and keeping these tools in my truck, I am helping to ensure that should I have a problem while away from home, I will be able to at least get home where a professional can make a more permanent fix.

For more information on trail riding and horse camping, please visit us at https://www.trailmeister.com/ TrailMeister is the world's most extensive guide to horse trails and camps and a resource for information to keep your rides enjoyable and safe.

The best-selling book “The ABCs of Trail Riding and Horse Camping” features 180 more topics for the active or aspiring trail rider. Get your copy on Amazon.

Getting Funded

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 is crucial to learn how to set your business up for success and learn from those who have already made the leap before launching yourself. 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. Along the way, you will learn from myself and successful equestrian small businesses about: how to build a business plan, marketing and advertising strategies, how to increase your profitability, what type of business structure would best suit you, how to protect your business with insurance and security, what networking can do for you, and much more. Read on and let's get to business!

Planning Before Funding

In the September article of this Equine Small Business Series, you developed your business plan and calculated a rough estimate of your starter costs. As a refresher, a business plan is your roadmap to achievement and should summarize your business's past, curr ent state, and future goals. Although it may seem intimidating, a thorough business plan is the key to convincing yourself, your customers, and your future investors that you are serious about success! Another critical step to starting your business is to calculate your startup costs, as this will allow potential investors to estimate when you might turn a profit. Both of these key elements to success need to be in place before you or your future investors fund your equine business venture.

Business Loans and Beyond

Once you know how much startup funding you need to get your new business up-and-running, it is time to figure out how you will get it. There is no one size-fits-all method for funding your business, but some types of funding will be better suited to your specific situation than others and sometimes the best answer might be a combination of several options. Essentially, there are four primary options to get funding for your equine small business: self-funding, crowdfunding, small business loans, and microloans.

Sometimes known as 'bootstrapping', self-funding is exactly as it sounds; using your own money and assets to fund your business venture. For some, it can also mean turning to family and friends for possible financial support. In that situation, paperwork should still be drawn up to protect your loved ones and yourself from any money mishaps. If you can realistically afford to, personally investing in your own business is one of the simplest funding options. If you choose to apply for a loan down the road, self-funding will demonstrate your perseverance, dedication, and commitment to your business's success.

For those looking to secure funding without involving their families or bank lenders, crowdfunding is another readily-available method for funding your small business. Thanks to websites like Kickstarter, GoFundMe, and Indiegogo, this system allows you to receive small sums from a large pool of individuals rather than a large amount from a single source. In exchange for a minimal fee, you are pro

vided with a secure and easy to use fundraising platform. Other than the fee, a con to crowdfunding is that many platforms are an all-or-nothing model; meaning that if you do not raise the full amount of the financial goal you set, the money will be refunded to all involved parties. However, crowdfunding is beneficial if you are looking to grow a community around your service or product, be cause it also acts as advertising for your future equine massage business, tack store, or whatever business you are growing.

Undoubtedly the most common funding method, small business loans are an agreement with a lender where the borrower is obligated to repay the loan on time, including interest. Your interest rate and other loan conditions will vary from lender to lender but will be determined on the riskiness of the loan. For instance, an up-andcoming equestrian fashion brand with a low credit score, no bus iness plan, and already accumulated debt would be considered a risky business for a lender to invest in. So, this small business might only qualify for a high interest loan or maybe no loan at all. A wonderful option for riskier businesses that are struggling to qualify for a traditional loan is to use a Small Business Association (SBA)guaranteed loan. Some benefits to SBA-guaranteed loans include the following: lower down payments, possibly no collateral needed, rates and fees comparable to non-guaranteed loans, and providing you with continued education and support for your business. Whichever your options might be, it is a good idea to compare any loan offers in search for the best possible terms and lowest possible interest rates for your equine small business loan.

If you are looking to only borrow a small sum, a microloan of less than $5,000 might be a better option for your business. Microloans are designed to provide funding to women, veterans, low-income, or minority small business owners. They are often used to help you expand, rebuild, or improve your small business. Just as with traditional loans, the borrower is expected to pay the amount back with interest through regular payments. Although many non-profits and community organizations offer them, the largest provider of microloans in the U.S is the Small Business Administration and the average loan amount is about $13,000. The eligibility requirements will vary depending on who is offering the loan, but microloans often have lower interest rates than traditional loans and offer mentorship or counseling for your equine small business.

Risky Business

Even after you have chosen the funding method that is best for your small business, success in this arena will require more than just a labor of love – getting funding for your equine small business will require you to think like a lender. Small

• How much money you will need to borrow and what the intended uses of the funding will be.

• A thorough and concise business plan documenting your business's founding, present, and future goals.

• A current balance sheet, a current income statement, and any documents pertaining to current cash flow.

• Projections about your businesses's monthly cash flow and monthly expenses for at least a year out.

• Your credit score; a score of 670 (“good”) may be accepted but a score of 740 or above (“very good”) will be preferred.

• Details about any debt that you’ve already accumulated, incl. personal loans you or any business partners have taken out.

• Three years' worth of tax returns for your business.

• If applicable, a stockholder's agreement laying out each owner's rights, what you would do if owners chose to sell their stock, etc.

Thinking like a lender, they will be looking for the answer to ques tions such as: can you repay the loan, will you repay the loan, and (if you fail to do so) do you have enough collateral to force you to repay the loan? Ultimately, the lender will always favor the low-risk, wellorganized business that is the most likely to yield a profit. This is why it is critical to organize a business plan, balance sheet, and other financial documents before meeting with a potential lender.

Before investing in your business, lenders will want to know that you have a clear plan for your business's future. You should be pre pared for a lender to ask to see the following business documents when considering granting you a loan: a spotted Leopard Appaloosa

Choosing a method of funding is one of the first and most important decisions you will make as an equine small business owner Do your research, take your time, and do not be afraid to ask any small business owners you know about why they chose the funding route that they did. There is no one size-fits-all financial plan; choose the type of funding best suited to your business's specific goals. Remember, the goal is to get your business off the ground and not to saddle you with debt from the start.

Lisa Skylis graduated from Michigan State University with a degree in Animal Science. She is a professional freelance writer and Lisa's work largely focuses on the equine industry When she is 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 emailed to skylisli@msu.edu

Sources for this article include an article from Iowa State University authored by Craig Chase in 2021 titled “Getting Your New Business Idea Funded”, an article from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce authored by Sean Ludwig and Lauren Wingo titled “A Practical Guide to Funding Your Small Business with Business Loans and Beyond”, and an article from the U.S. Small Business Administration titled “Fund Your Business.” Extension Horses maintains a host of equine business-related articles from their Equine Business Network and, if you are interested in more re sources, can be viewed at https://horses.extension.org/equine business-network-articles/

BLACK SWAMP DRIVING CLUB, OHIO

Sharon Hayhurst was worried that no one would be coming to the August 27th BSDC drive near Bowling Green, OH. Not to worry, however, since the prospect of a Dutch oven lunch brought a sizeable gathering to the Hayhursts' tranquil acreage. A tour of all the building improvements made recently was given by Ron Hayhurst prior to his presentation of his collection of carriages, including a sleigh with new upholstery thanks to Sharon. Her flock of chickens represented several breeds, which she introduced.

Ponds on the farm beckoned several members to try their luck at fishing while others enjoyed paddling the boats. Another group spent time relaxing under the mature shade trees. Molly Owen explained that rodent damage to carriage fabrics can be pre vented by placing Bounce dryer sheets around the carriage before covering it with a clear plastic sheet because rodents prefer dark places.

Julie Emmons reported on her contact with the Pony Wagon Museum, St. Paris, Ohio. She needed to know what date would be best for members before finalizing arrange ments. Sept. 10 was agreed upon giving her the go-ahead to set up the tour. The Emmons family also reminded the group that their Parker Bridge drive was Sept. 24.

More than two dozen BSDC members met at the Studebaker Country Restaurant west of Urbana, OH, Sept. 10 for lunch before the short drive to St. Paris, OH, and the Pony Wagon Museum Established in 1881, Walborn and Riker manufactured high end pony vehicles that made their way all across the country and even to England. A display of six vehicles at the 1893 World's Fair in Chicago led to a mass of orders. The firm grew, employing as many as 75 craftsmen. What made the Walborn and Riker pony vehicles unique was the designs of Mr Riker Instead of taking a horse size carriage and putting on smaller wheels with shorter shafts (as was the practice), he designed vehicles that were proportional to various sizes of ponies. The company advertised several models in five different sizes, begin-

ning with animals from about 34 inches. They also build some horse size carriages.

The museum is located in the former St. Paris railroad station, and in the pride of place in the large main room is a Walborn and Riker back to back trap that had been donated by BSDC members Gary and Connie Gillfillan. The vehicle has a reversible back seat allowing for riders to face forward or with a sliding feature, the back seat could be changed to rear facing. The carriage is an excellent example of Walborn and Riker workmanship and adds to the educational mission of the museum.

A second building houses a historic fire truck and more carriages. In one of the for mer office spaces in the old station is a foot operated player piano that provided considerable entertainment. A W&R runabout was pulled outside so members could try sitting in it and having pictures taken as “drivers.”

Upcoming Events:

October 4-9: The National Drive, Hoosier Horse Park, Edinburg, IN October 23: Annual Hayride hosted by Mary Elliott and Linda Spear, Galion, OH. Check start time!

November 12: Annual Banquet, Good Hope Lutheran Church, Arlington, OH.

Find the BSDC on Facebook or visit us at: https://www.blackswampdrivingclub.com/

MAYBURY STATE PARK TRAIL RIDERS ASSOCIATION (MSPTRA)

Greetings, trail riders!

Since this month's rainfall is so minimal, we have not had to deal with a lot of mud on the trails. Although it is not great for our lawns, it sure makes easy trail riding!

Our annual fall ride this year is scheduled for October 23, 2022 from 11:00am-3:00pm. Our plan is to have Halloween themed riddles for you to figure out along the trail. Food and drinks will be served between 2:00pm-3:00pm. We will have a costume contest as well at around 2:30pm with some fun prizes!

We still have not received any good news yet on any interest of someone to take over the riding stables facility at the park. If you or anyone you know might be interested, please contact Traci Sincock at sincockt@ michigan.gov. We would not want this great facility to be left unused. Since the riding stables Facebook page has been taken down, we are getting many questions about horse rentals on our website. As of now, I am directing inquiries to other local riding stables such as Brighton, Waterloo, and Pickney We hope to be able to give them good news about renting horses at Maybury State Park someday soon!

Please remember that there is NO hunting at Maybury State Park.

Check out all the new updates to the web site at www.mayburytrailriders.org

Continue to follow us on Facebook for up dates on the trails, events and general news going on in the park. Feel free to post pictures from your rides!

Happy Trails! Mary Nader

MI FOXTROTTING HORSE ASSOCIATION

Many adults from the Baby Boomer and older generations stop riding for various reasons when they reach age 60 or so. We need to do all we can to encourage younger riders to replace them. We can't allow ownership of registered Fox Trotters to decline in number or our breed will eventually disappear completely. One good way to increase the popularity of this breed is to cause youth involvement in various ways. There are a number of fun online horse pro grams (Horse Isle, Star Stable, Horse Haven are a few) to introduce children to horses. Even at an early age, kids can play these games and learn facts about them. Getting little ones hooked on horses before they be come involved in a different sport is key Kids love to spend time with horses – even reading to them! Over time the child may feel more comfortable around a horse and will probably ask if they can brush and spend more time with your Fox Trotter. Please encourage that experience. Enroll TRAIL RIDERS

MI FOXTROTTING HORSE ASSOC., cont. your children and grand-kids in 4-H. There are age appropriate activities for them to learn about horses and leadership. Fox Trotters can and have been shown in 4-H. Answer the request from Girl and Boy Scout leaders asking for your expertise in helping the boys and girls fulfill their requirements for their badges. Scouting organizations and independent facilities offer week-long horse camps. Sign your kids/grand-kids up for that experience. These are great ways to expose children to horses. Encourage youngsters to take riding lessons. They will learn confidence and horsemanship skills. This is esp ecially helpful for people with handicaps. Those with Attention Deficit Disorder will learn planning skills that help them all through their lives. Contribute to their horsey apparel needs. Help them choose boots and helmets at tack sales and online. Horseless parents will thank you. While you are camping, find the time to introduce your MFT to interested youth who want to visit with them. Share exciting stories with them about your adventures on horseback Inspire youth to participate in the trail associations that you are part of They can see firsthand how useful MFTs are with trail maintenance and other associated activities. In addition to our adult category, our association has three Versatility Youth sections for Ultimate Horseman Challenge, MFT Not Under Saddle and MFT Under Saddle. Points are earned based on the activities completed in each category. Prizes are awarded quarterly Check this fun and educational program out on our website www.michiganfoxtrottinghorse.com. Print off the membership and Versatility forms and mail them in. We are always searching for young people to join us. We have so much to offer due to our many years of exp erience trail riding and showing We strive to offer as many opportunities as we can to everyone by offering various clinics to improve horsemanship skills, building trail riding confidence and show ring essentials. We also have an interesting Trail Treasure section on our website to teach people about Michigan plants and animals that are found on the trail. All Missouri Fox Trotting Horse Breed Association members who are under 17 years of age are automatically enrolled in the Youth Association. Go to www mfthba com for more information about that program and all that it has to offer. By exposing kids starting at a very young age to horses and ponies, they will develop

a love for them as they get older and often ask their parents to lease or purchase one. Hopefully this will keep the pattern going for when the next generation comes along We all need to help encourage the interest and ownership of our wonderful breed. The Fox Trotter motto is: To Ride One is to Own One! Find out by trying one out. Contact any of the officers listed on our website to find out where you can visit a MFT!.

By Marilyn Mannino

MI HORSE DRAWN VEHICLE ASSOC.

The MHDVA has scheduled our Annual Meeting for October 12th at the Grand Ledge Public Library meeting room, Grand Ledge, MI. We will have lunch at 11:00a.m. Please RSVP to Joyce at 813-480-9123, either by text or call. If you need gluten free, please advise. The club will provide pizza and salad and bottled water. Please bring a dessert if you would like, and your own pop.

The Annual Meeting will be held at noon. If you are interested in a fun driving group, join us on October 12th!

Mark your calendars for 2023!

The Blue Ribbon Driving Show is scheduled for June 3 and 4th, 2023. Once again it will be held at Ionia Fairgrounds in Ionia, MI.

Visit us online at: http://www.mhdva.org/

Pinto Horse Association of Ohio

PINTO HORSE ASSOCIATION OF OHIO

As the temperatures begin to fall and the horses are getting fuzzy, we realize that fall is upon us. The 2022 Pinto Horse Association of Ohio show season has come to an end. Overall, the club had a very successful season and we are beginning to prepare for 2023. Our shows this year offered classes for solid and colored equines from miniatures to ponies to horses.

The Pinto Horse Association of Ohio would like to thank each and every one of our members as well as show participants who came out during the 2022 show season to one of our events. Be on the lookout for 2023 Banquet information coming soon.

The Board of Directors will begin their regular meetings, so if you have any questions or concerns be sure to contact one of them and watch the website or Facebook page PtHAO for the most up to date information.

Good luck to all of the Pinto Horse Association members traveling to the Color Breed Congress in Tulsa, OK in November

May your barns be cozy and the weather be full of pumpkin spice.

Hello Everyone!

The Circle Ride with Kensington Trail Riders was a huge success! We had over 80 camper/riders between the two parks and everyone really enjoyed themselves.

We are also very happy to report that we have added even more obstacles to our obstacle course. Please come out and give it a try! There is absolutley no charge, just come and enjoy

Proud Lake Trail Riders has been working diligently with the DNR to separate our trails from the bikers. A huge hurdle was just accomplished in that the location of the new bike trails has been decided and agreed upon. The next step will be cutting out the trails. Once the trails are seperated, there will be signs up stating what are horse trails and what are bike trails. We have been working on this for the past several years and we are thrilled that the park is committed to making this happen. As of right now, the GPS maps have been submitted and we are moving forward.

If you encounter bikers on the trails that are not giving the ride away to horses, please contact the DNR immediately If you are able to get photos, please try to.

If you would like to join our email list, please email me at efrusy@yahoo.com and also remember to like us on Facebook!

Looking back to our August show held at Champion Center, many high points were earned by our members. Stay safe and keep riding!

PROUD LAKE TRAIL RIDERS ASSOC.

WESTERN DRESSAGE ASSOC. OF MI

Fall is here with all the beautiful array of colors and smell. I know many of you will be riding the trails and enjoying the wonders of fall. It's the best time of year! The WDAMI board is working hard for the coming year; there are some great things in the works.

Congratulations to all our members who competed at the 2022 Western Dressage Championship Show Thank you for repre senting Michigan and for a job well done. As our show season comes to an end on October 31, don't forget to send in your applications for year end awards. Applications are due on or before November 15, 2022. WDAMI Year-End awards forms and information can be found on our WDAMI website. Many great things for both show rider and pleasure riders. If you have any questions,email me at Eaglehorse1@ hotmail.com. I would be happy to help!

WDAMI is looking for individuals and businesses to help sponsor our Year end Awards Program. We would like to say thank you to the Lazy S Ranch Equine Learning Center LLC and Sunrise Equestrian Sports for their generous donation this year.

I would like to mention again there is a great new book out: In the Beginning, Lessons from the Toolbox of Sue Hughes. It is 8.5” x 11” inches with a coil binding and laminated cover so you can take it with you to the barn. It has wonderful illustrations and infor mation on how to ride movements – great for riders at every level. You can go to the WDAMI website to order your book today

Our Quote of the Month is a lesson I learned a few years back. There is no perfect test ridden, so enjoy your journey, be happy with even small improvements that will build on one another to form a solid foundation and a harmonious partnership between you and your equine friend.

Thank you for supporting one of the fastest growing equestrian sports. Be safe, have fun, enjoy your equine partner, and exercise the act of kindness to all. Until next time.

Suzanne Morisse, President of WDAMI

Visit us at: https://www.wdami.org/

YANKEE SPRINGS TRAIL RIDERS

September Meeting: Our meeting was held at Yankee Springs Horse Camp.

Attendance: Ron & Carla Walker, Ken & Ruth Terpening, Skip and Jeanne Burger, Travis and Sarah Bueler, Kathy Taylor

Excused: Tom Chaffee, Heather Slocum, John Soper

Attending Members: Garrett and Amanda Walker, Kristie and Kurt Walls, Jeane Bender, Julie and Floyd Vickery

President Ron Walker called the meeting to order, 1:47pm. Treasurers/Secretaries re port were accepted as written by the board.

Club Business: Jon Dermody resigned from the YSTRA board. We would like to thank the Dermody’s for their constant support of YSTRA! Jon and his wife Cindy, have always been advocates for our trails as well as a big reason why we had the equipment needed to do lots of our trail maintenance. Thank you, Jon, for your board service! We will dearly miss you.

Your board members who were voted on at the Annual Meeting: Kathy Taylor, Heather Slocum, Carla Walker, Jeanne Burger, Ruth Terpening, Jon Dermody, Voluntarily Resigned

Your write in candidate: Heather Ward

Skip motioned to accept our board members as written. Kathy second. All members, including your write in candidate, Heather Ward, were accepted for 2 year terms.

WELCOME HEATHER WARD TO THE YSTRA BOARD!

Executive Officers that were voted on:

• Ron Walker – President

• Ken Terpening – Vice President

• Travis Buehler – Treasurer

• Sarah Buehler – Secretary

Kristie Walls moved that since we have an uncontested ballot that we move forward. Ken 2nd. All were in favor.

Continued Club Business: Ron – Camp being designated as equestrian only IS HUGE! Spread the word that our camp is Equestrian only If you see a non-equestrian camper, please contact the DNR to report it.

The Day Use Area: IS COMING They have cleared the area and are prepping for their next steps. Vault toilets will be built for the back of the lot. A well will be on the south back of the lot. The plan is for a power pump to be installed in the future. We would like to see picket posts installed on the west side of the new day use area as well.

Ken Terpening: Spread the word! The Billy the kid trail needs to be made known, so people realize it is a connector through camp. You can get to both the 6 and 9 mile via the Billy the kid trail. We would like to see signs made for this trail.

Kathy Taylor: Is it possible for us to get a new trail made from the new day use area to camp? This way we can keep horses off the road. SAFETY is key!

Kathy Taylor: Where do your horses go for an event if we make the OLD day use area into camping spots? Carla responded – DNR can block those spots off via their website so it can be used at that time for parking

Kathy Taylor: Suggested that we keep the old trailer Fix the doors, keep all the Hallo ween things in that trailer in totes. Put everything else in new trailer Kathy motions to keep the old trailer. Sarah 2nd. All agreed.

Sarah: Halloween…Serve chili, apple cider, corn bread. The event will be ran exactly like in years past as that seems to be the easiest! We will need help decorating for the event. Sarah will reach out as it get's closer TRAIL RIDERS

Calendar 2022 Events: October 8th Halloween: Sarah Buehler Chair. Show us your best costume and win prizes! Additional information to come.

New Club Business:

Kristie Walls suggested a change in our Bylaws. This change will keep us in compliance with our current bylaws, that state we must have 14 board of directors. The change would be that we would require no less than 4 BOD, no more than14 BOD. A committee will be formed to bring a motion to the entire BOD for consideration. IHTA has adopted this to their bylaws and it is working well for them

Kathy mentioned that the benches could use a good powerwashing. Carla asked if we can replace the exterior rails around the outside of the pavilion as they are rotting away. Sarah wanted to ask Joe if we can replace it ALL so they match.

Ruth motioned to adjourn the meeting. Ken 2nd. Our meeting closed at 2:42pm

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 trans itioning more than 25,000 Thoroughbreds. CANTER Michigan

Janet Salisbury, President Commerce Twp., MI (Oakland) (S-08/22) Email: cantermichigan@canterusa.org www.canterusa.org/michigan

ANIMAL SUPPLEMENTS

CLASSIFIED ADS

BOARDING

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-10/22)

Email: ironwoodfarmdressage@yahoo.com

www.ironwoodfarmequestrian.com

MORAZ STABLES & EQUESTRIAN CENTER –Horse Boarding/Riding Lessons. Farm events and activities. Organic farm eggs for sale.

MORAZ STABLES & EQUESTRIAN CENTER East China, MI (St. Clair) (S-08/22) 586.484.4154 or 630.991.0733

Email: info@morazequestriancenter.com https://www.facebook.com/morazstables/ https://morazequestriancenter.com/

Fastrack Animal Supplements – Keep your horses healthy. Healthier hooves, shinier hair coat, more. Listen to what this veterinarian has to say: dial (605) 475-4954, access code 680127#, then for Horses: 2#, Beef: 5#, Dogs: 7#

FASTRACK ANIMAL SUPPLEMENTS

For more info. call Ray 989.872.5216 (PS-12/22)

Leave a message: 888.266.0014, ext. 8778

AUTOMATIC WATERERS

Nelson Automatic Waterers – A Nelson pre ferred 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-12/22) 313.407.7373 cell.

Nelson Automatic Waterers – A Nelson pre ferred 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-01/23) 313.418.5676 or 734.475.8898

EVERVIEW FARM 269. 948.9570

Hastings, MI (Barry) (S-04/23)

Email: lee@everviewfarm.net

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. www.everviewfarm.net

Co-Op Board, Clinton, MI: Small personal barn, 2-3 stalls available this fall. Looking for a co op type situation: reasonable board with help cleaning, turnout, care and so on.

Call Sandy – 248.410.8876

Lashbrook Farms: pasture board openings for two older geldings and one mare. Offering an indoor arena, large grassy pastures, and access to Kensington Metro Park. Clinton, MI (Lenawee) (M-10/22)

LASHBROOK FARMS – Rick 248.225.2818 Brighton Twp., MI (Livingston) (M-11/22)

Email: rwiegand01@aol.com

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, heated tack room and restroom.

TUTHILL FARMS – Sandra Tuthill 248.207.6201 South Lyon, MI (Livingston) (S-12/22)

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-10/22)

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 - 10/22)

Email: info@hardysfarm.com http://www.hardysfarm.com/ Find us on Facebook: Hardy Farms

Online: www.tuthillfarms.com

TWIN ELM TRAINING: Full service training and boarding facility Friendly, professional barn on 40 acres, indoor and outdoor arena, wash rack, tack lockers, 1/2 mile track, trailer parking. Resident trainer/instructor: hunt seat (on the flat), saddle seat, western, and western dressage.

TWIN ELM TRAINING, LLC 248.697.6503

Email: sandra@tuthillfarms.com Northville, MI (Washtenaw) (S-05/23)

http://www.twinelmtraining.com/

EQUINE BOOKS

Finally, a book written by a real horseman and blacksmith, so horse owner’s, farriers and veter inarians can find solution to lameness problems they are having Fact-filled book. (M-10/22) EVERYDAY PROBLEMS OF EQUINE LAMENESS – Causes, Solutions and Facts.

Search Amazon by title to purchase.

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.

LAROSE EQUINE DENTISTRY (PS-09/22) 989.430.8595 or 989.285.5557

www.LaRoseEquineDentistry.com

www.facebook.com/LaRoseEquineDentistry

EQUINE MASSAGE

Horses In Harmony Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork, since 2001. Offering massage, Reiki, Craniosacral Therapy and Red Light Therapy

Facebook: HorsesInHarmonyCESMT, Instagram: @horsesinharmony.cesmt

HORSES IN HARMONY – Candy 810.923.5003 Howell, MI (Livingston) (M-10/22)

Email: horsesinharmony@att.net

horsesinharmony0.wixsite.com/horsesinharmony

FARRIER SERVICE

CLASSIFIED

HORSE BLANKET WASHING & REPAIR

FIBER LUXE – Horse blanket cleaning and repair Free pick-up and delivery (M-12/22)

INCOME OPPORTUNITY

Email: flblankets@comcast.net

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

THE LAUNDRY BARN – 248.274.6070 (text ok)

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

JOHN PETERSON FARRIER 248.303.6498

FLY & INSECT CONTROL

Shoo-Fly Insect Control – Automatically get rid of flies, mosquitoes, and spiders. Safe and inex pensive 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

Horse & Cattle Hay: Square bales 60-65 lbs., 4x5 net wrapped round bales 850-950 lbs. From Northern Michigan, delivered by semi loads or in enclosed trailers. Custom hauling available. Timothy, clover, alfalfa. Min. order for delivery Find us on Facebook.

517.206.7377 | www.murphyfarm.net

MURPHY FARMS LLC – Mike Murphy Fowlerville, MI (Livingston) (PS-03/23)

HELP WANTED

Experienced Barn Hand Wanted: Duties include (but not limited to) horse turnout, feeding, water ing, stall cleaning, barn cleaning. Some paddock and pasture management. Must have horse exp erience and be able to operate a tractor Looking for a self-motivated individual.

JUSTAMERE EQUESTRIAN CENTRE

TEXT ONLY: 585.295.1313 Twila Macomb, MI (Macomb) (M-11/22)

1400 Wooley Rd., Oxford, MI (M-12/22)

Email: laundrybarn@gmail.com

HORSE FARM FOR SALE

73 Acre Horse Farm: Rare opportunity! Ann Arbor Schools, Lodi Twp. taxes, paved road. 3500 sq. ft. main home, 5 bdrms., 3.1 baths, 3 fire places, 3 car garage. Attached in-law apartment. 2nd home: 1352 sq. ft., 3 bdrms., 1 bath. Indoor, outdoor arenas, 2 horse barns, 2 storage barns.

COLLIERS ANN ARBOR

Jim Chaconas, Realtor – 734.769.5005

Ann Arbor, MI (Washtenaw) (M-11/22)

FIBER LUXE 1.800.334.1994 https://www.colliersannarbor.com/

HORSE TRAILERS

Part-time or full-time available: Join our team of distributors. 50 yr old company selling animal and human supplements, cleaning, agricultural, lubrication and roofing View videos on YouTube. Agriculture video at: www.HowIFarmNow.com, Roofing video at: www.HowIRoofNow.com

Free Information, Call Ray 989.872.5216

Message: 888.266.0014, ext. 8778 (S-12/22)

SADDLE/ LEATHER REPAIR

SADDLE REPAIR & LEATHER WORK New and used saddles and tack bought and sold. Complete Leather Repair available. Many years of exper ience. Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-6pm, Sat. 9:30-5pm.

LARRY’S RV CENTER Michigan’s Exclusive SMC Trailers Dealer! LQ and stock trailers, easy to customize, endless floor plans and decor We also carry new and used RV’s, accessories, parts and have a full service department.

LARRY’S RV CENTER – 517.787.3830 2501 Lansing Ave., Jackson, MI (M-12/22)

www.larrysrvservice.com and social media

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 trailers. Great selection and even better prices!

SPARTA CHEVROLET & TRAILER SALES

Call Jim Kelly 616.887.3456 8955 Sparta Ave. NW, Sparta, MI (M-12/22)

Email: spartatrailers@gmail.com

Online: www.spartachevytrailers.com

Jim Moule – 248.887.4829

JIM'S QUALITY SADDLE CO. Milford, MI (Oakland) (S-08/23)

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-11/22)

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-11/22)

Email: showclothes01@hotmail.com Online: www.showclothesunlimited.com

TACK STORES

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: (M-12/22) 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-10/22)

Email: ironwoodfarmdressage@yahoo.com

www.ironwoodfarmequestrian.com

INSTRUCTION: Dressage, Jumping, Eventing

After a lull in clinics/lessons after Covid, clinics will be scheduled mostly on Saturdays/Sundays. Lessons will be scheduled Thurs, Sat & Sun. Some evenings & private scheduling is available.

CROWTHORNE FARM

Lynnda Marie Malone – 248.535.8954

Hartland, MI (Livingston) (M-10/22)

Email: crowthornefarm@comcast.net

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 ADS

TRANSPORTATION

DRAGONFLY’S RIDE: How your horse likes to travel! We ship around the corner or around the country. Ship in single, double, or box stalls. We specialize in quality, not quantity 24-hr emergency service available.

DRAGONFLY’S RIDE – Dennis 248.320.9839 Northville, MI (Washtenaw) (S-10/22)

www.dragonflysride.com

EQUINE TRANSPORTATION: Offering 25 years of experience, horse handling and hauling. Short and long hauls. 3 horse slant or head to head, box stall option. Available 24 hours.

Bud Richardson – 248.924.8891 Highland, MI (Oakland) (M-10/22)

Email: legendfarm7181@gmail.com

S

Have A Safe & Happy Halloween!

From your friends at Saddle Up! Magazine; Cindy & Bill, Jason & Arlette, & Mila & Logan

What kind of horse does the grim reaper ride?

A Nightmare!

SHOW & EVENT DATES

SHOW & EVENT DATES

SHOWS

ALL show and event date listings are FREE! Printed: 6 line limit. Online: No word limit. https://saddleupmag.com/online calendar

OCTOBER

OCTOBER 1 – Old Capitol Saddle Club Open Buckle Series Show 10am start. Old Capitol Saddle Club, 751 Old Hwy 135 SW, Corydon, IN. Kim 812.267.3339 or Troy 812.572.6646. https://www.oldcapitolsaddleclub.com/

OCTOBER 1-2 – Indiana Pinto Fall Finale. Hosted by the Indiana Pinto Horse Association. Henry County Saddle Club, 321 West 100N, New Castle, IN. Find us on Facebook: “Indiana Pinto Horse Association” or visit our website at: http://indianapinto.com/

OCTOBER 2 – Bainbridge Saddle Club Open Charity Show, 8:30am start. AQHA & BSC rules. Club grounds: 3038 N. County Road 450 W., Greencastle, IN. Denee’ 765.721.3948. Find “Bainbridge Saddle Club” on Facebook or visit: https://www.bainbridgesaddleclub.net/

OCTOBER 2 – Golden Spur Saddle Club Open Show. 8am start. Boone Co. 4-H Fairgrounds, 1300 E. Co. Rd. 100 S, Lebanon, OH. Email: goldenspursaddleclub@gmail.com. Find us on Facebook: “Golden Spur Saddle Club” or visit: http://www.goldenspursaddleclub.com/

OCTOBER 6-8 – ASHAM Charity Fall Horse Show. Michiana Event Center, 455 E. Farver St., Shipshewana, IN. Show Mgr. Ron Gekiere 586.484.8790, or email: rongeki@gmail.com. Facebook: American Saddlebred Horse Assoc. of Michigan or visit: https://www.asham.org/

OCTOBER 7-9 – 3 Day Ranch Clinic with Michaella Walker Beginner & intermediate. Davis Ranch, 385 E. US Hwy. 150, Hardins burg, IN. Call to register 812.562.0005, email: missychic69@sbcglobal.net. Find us on Face book: “Davis Ranch Open Horse Shows”

OCTOBER 7-9 – IQHA Charity Trail Ride, Deam Lake State Recreation Area, 1217 Deam Lake Rd., Borden, IN. Contact Rachel Flohr David 812.350.0198, or email: rachelflohrdavid@ gmail.com. Facebook: “Indiana Quarter Horse Association” or visit: https://iqha.com/

OCTOBER 7-9 – Mid East Regional Boo Bash. National and Indiana Points. Hosts: Indiana POAC. C Bar C Expo, 253 W Stardust Rd., Cloverdale, IN. Entries: Linzy 260.519.5433, or email: indianapoacentries@hotmail.com. Find us on Facebook: “Indiana POAC”

OCTOBER 8 – 4th Annual Sierra Fisher Memorial Speed Show. Warm ups noon-2:45pm, $3 per run. 3pm show start. Circle X Ranch, 818 W. 250 N., Winchester, IN. Devon Eastman 765.546.6441 (text okay).

OCTOBER 8 – Backroad Riders Speed Show, 1pm start. Rush County 4-H Horse Park, 1352 E St. Rd. 44, Rushville, IN. Call or text Paul Nicholls 765.561.0472. Find “Backroad Riders Club Rush County IN” on Facebook.

OCTOBER 8 – Speed Show, Added Money. IBRA/NPBA approved. Warmups 4pm, 6pm start. Stop 16 Saddle Club, 4200 Tuttle Ave., Terre Haute, IN. 812.208.7013, 812.208.0582. Find us on Facebook: “Stop 16 Saddle Club”

OCTOBER 8 – Warrick Saddle Club Show 10am start. Western, English & Speed Classes. 202 East Columbia St., Boonville, IN. Call Casey 812.618.5416, Shannon 812.205.9347. Email: warricksaddleclub@gmail.com. Find us on Facebook: “Warrick Saddle Club”

OCTOBER 9 – Greene Speed Fun Show, warmups 3pm, show starts 4pm. Hosted by: Greene Co. RidgeRiders 4-H Club. Greene Co. 4-H Fairgrounds, 4503 W SR 54, Bloomfield, IN. 812.384.6128, email: greene.ridgeriders@ gmail.com. FB: RidgeRiders 4H Horse & Pony

OCTOBER 13-16 – Midwest Ranch Horse Classic. Hosts: IN Ranch Horse Assoc./Ranch Horse Assoc. of MI. C Bar C Expo, 253 W. Stardust Rd., Cloverdale, IN. Pre-register/stalls https://graymareproductions.com/mwc/ Find “Midwest Ranch Horse Classic” on Facebook.

OCTOBER 14 – Saylor’s Arena Fast N Fearless Fridays (2nd Friday May-Oct). Bull Riding & Barrel Racing, 6pm. Saylor’s Arena, 4600 N. 1100 E., Grovertown, IN. Books open Monday before show, 574.532.1840 text. Em.: saylors arena@eott.net. Facebook: “Saylors Arena”

OCTOBER 14-15 – The Friesian Fall Classic. Consignments welcome. Topeka Livestock Auction, 601 E Lake St., Topeka, IN. TLA 260.593.2522, e: info@topekalivestock.com. Follow us on Facebook: “Topeka Livestock Auction” or http://www.topekalivestock.com/

OCTOBER 15 – Speed Show, IN approved, added money $5 expo barrels 9:15am, $5 expo poles 10:15am. Show starts at 11am. Jefferson Twp. Park, 1702 S. Webster Rd., New Haven, IN. Bella 260.494.4378 Find us on Facebook: “BA Barrel Racing Productions”

OCTOBER 15-16 – Davis Ranch Open Show, 10am start. PAC, ISHA, OCAP approved. Davis Ranch, 385 East US Hwy 150, Hardinsburg, IN. Call Jo 812.972.3365, David 812.620.5707, or email: dave@daviddavishorsemasnhip.com. Facebook: “Davis Ranch Open Horse Shows”

OCTOBER 15 – Greene Co. Ridgeriders Fall Finale. Hosted by: Greene Co. RidgeRiders 4-H Club. Greene Co. 4-H Fairgrounds, 4503 W SR 54, Bloomfield, IN. Call 812.384.6128, email: greene ridgeriders@gmail com Facebook: “RidgeRiders 4H Horse & Pony”

OCTOBER 16 – Bainbridge Saddle Club Open Show, 8:30am start. Club grounds: 3038 N. County Road 450 W., Greencastle, IN. Call Denee’ 765.721.3948. FB: Bainbridge Saddle Club, https://www.bainbridgesaddleclub.net/

OCTOBER 16 – Hoosier Quarter Pony Assoc. Show, 10am start. Davis Ranch, 385 E Hwy 150, Hardinsburg, IN. Victoria 812.878.0216, cash only Em.: dave@daviddavisranchhorse manship.com Facebook: Hoosier Quarter Pony Association or Davis Ranch Open Horse Shows

OCTOBER 20-23 – Fall Color Classic Futurity. Hosts: MI Paint Horse Club. C Bar C Expo, 253 West Stardust Rd., Cloverdale, IN. Email: michiganphc@gmail com Find “Michigan Paint Horse Club” on Facebook or visit our website at: http://www.miphc.com/

OCTOBER 22 – Illiana Livestock LLC Sale. 10am New Tack, Saddles & Used Tack 1pm, Ponies/Donkeys 4pm, Horses follow. Vermillion Co. Fairgrounds, 325 W Maple St., Cayuga, IN. Call Clay Norris 574.780.8378, or Cobie Norris 217.260.5696. FB: “Illiana Livestock LLC”

OCTOBER 24-28 – Topeka Draft Horse Sale. Consignments welcome. Topeka Livestock Auction, 601 E. Lake St., Topeka, IN. TLA 260.593.2522, e: info@topekalivestock.com. Follow us on Facebook: “Topeka Livestock Auction” or http://www.topekalivestock.com/

OCTOBER 29 – Fall Festival, 5pm-9pm. Trick or treat, dog & people costume contest, hayrides, Bounce House, More! Morning Dove Therapeutic Riding, Inc., 7444 W. 96th St., Zionsville, IN. 317.733.9393, or email: officemanager@ mdtrc.org. https://morningdovetrc.org/

OCTOBER 29 – Halloween Horse Bash. Hosted by Paws & Ponies Farm LLC. Registration starts 9am. Ripley County Fairgrounds, 524 W. Beech St., Osgood, IN. Lisa 989.980.4218 or Kelsie 812.621.2195. Email: pawsandponiesllc@ gmail.com. FB: “Paws & Ponies Farm LLC”

SHOW & EVENT DATES

INDIANA, CONT.

NOVEMBER 18-19 – Heart of America Regis tered Haflinger Sale. C Bar C Expo, 253 W. Stardust Rd., Cloverdale, IN. Phillip Chupp 217.543.2904. FB: “Heart of America Reg Haflinger Sale” or: https://haflingerhorse.com/

NOVEMBER 25-27 – IBRA Thanksgiving Show C Bar C Expo, 253 W Stardust Rd., Cloverdale, IN. 502.239.4000 IBRA office, email: shane@ibra.us or https://www.ibra.us/

NOVEMBER 26 – Illiana Livestock LLC Sale. 10am New Tack, Saddles & Used Tack 1pm, Ponies/Donkeys 4pm, Horses follow Vermillion Co. Fairgrounds, 325 W Maple St., Cayuga, IN. Call Clay Norris 574.780.8378, or Cobie Norris 217.260.5696. FB: “Illiana Livestock LLC”

DECEMBER 1-4 – IKI Winter Circuit Show IQHA, AQHA, NSBA approved. C Bar C Arena, 253 W Stardust Dr., Cloverdale, IN. Stalls: 813.785.3090, email: pardue4cats@aol.com. Facebook: “Mark Harrell Equine Marketing”

DECEMBER 17 – Quarterly Show Series, 9am start. Sign-ups at least 48 hrs. before show Savage Riding Academy, 19030 CR 23, Bristol, IN. Call 574.329.1431, or email: contact@ savageriding.com. Facebook: “Savage Riding” or at: http://savageriding.com/

Shipshewana Trading Place: Horse Auction Every Friday 10:30am tack, 12:30pm Horses; saddle, ponies, work and driving 345 S Van Buren St., Shipshewana, IN. 260.768.4129, email: info@shipshewanatradingplace.com, or visit: www.shipshewanatradingplace.com

Topeka Livestock Auction: Hay and Live stock Auction every Tuesday Special horse auctions throughout the year 601 E Lake St., Topeka, IN. Call 260.593.2522, or email: info@topekalivestock.com. Find us on Face book or http://www.topekalivestock.com/

Hamilton County Horse Sale: 1st & 3rd Saturday each month. New and used tack, hay, straw, trailers & horses. Consigners welcome. 22217 St. Road 37 N., Noblesville, IN. Call 317.946.4450 or 317.773.5590, or find us on Facebook for more information.

Illiana Livestock, LLC. Tack, ponies, donkeys, and horse sales held at the Vermillion County Fairgrounds, 325 W Maple St., Cayuga, IN. Call Clay Norris 574.780.8378, or Cobie Norris 217.260.5696. FB: “Illiana Livestock LLC”

Fetlock and Pastern Disorders

By Dr. Joanna Bronson | http://bronsonvetservices.com/

Depending on a horse's discipline, certain activities such as competitive performance and racing tend to create more leg issues than the backyard pony or trail horse would normally develop. However, pasture injuries do occur and invariably legs are involved. Most common trauma-inflicted injuries seem to happen to the lower legs.

The fetlock is the joint where the cannon bone, the proximal sesamoid bones, and the first phalanx (long pastern bone) connect. The pastern is the area between the hoof and the fetlock joint. It is similar in location to a human ankle.

These two areas can be affected by several maladies including fractures, osteoarthritis, osselets, ringbone, sesamoiditis, synovitis, and windgalls (also known as windpuffs).

Performance and racehorses are often at risk for developing stress fractures of the long cannon bone. They may appear as small chip fractures, fractures along the length of the bone (called a split pastern), or comminuted fractures where the bone is broken into multiple fragments.

Chip fractures usually occur on the upper portion of the long pastern bone and are mostly caused by a horse being overextended when moving at a high speed. Immediate signs include sudden lameness and swelling of the fetlock joint.

Trauma may also produce chips or loose fragments on the back of the pastern bone in the hind legs and may involve the joint.

Sudden, severe weight bearing lameness after work or a race may indicate a longitudinal or comminuted fracture. There will be significant swelling and intense pain from movement.

Chip fractures often occur in the short pastern bones. Fractures of the upper portion of the bone are mostly found in the hind legs.

If the fracture is in the proximal sesamoid bone, it may also extend into the fetlock area. Damage may include the suspensory ligament. Signs are heat, pain, sudden onset of lameness, and swelling If the suspensory ligaments combined with fractures of both sesamoid bones are injured, there may be compromised blood flow to the foot.

Osselets form when the connective tissue surrounding the cannon bone becomes inflamed. This inflammation may lead to progressive degenerative joint disease and arthritis.

Signs include a shortened, choppy gait. Pressure and bending of the fetlock joint will cause pain and the area may be warm and swollen. Initial x-rays will probably reveal no evidence of new bone formation (green osselets), but as the condition worsens, it may produce

bone spurs or newly formed bone in the joint that may break off and float loosely inside the joint creating “joint mice.”

Ringbone is also manifested by inflammation of the connective tissue surrounding the pastern bone. It can lead to the development of bone spurs or outgrowths of bone. The main causes are poor conformation, improper shoeing, and repeated working on hard grounds. Trauma and infection, as well as strain on ligaments and tendons in the pastern area are also causative factors.

The lameness may subside once the bony outgrowths appear. Sometimes the joint will fuse. Complete rest, anti-inflammatory meds and in some cases surgical immobilization of the pastern joint will cause the bones to grow together thus curing the condition.

Sesamoiditis occurs when great stress is placed on the fetlock joint. This resulting inflammation can cause changes in the sesamoid bones. Affected horses have a greater chance of suspensory injuries.

Villonodular Synovitis creates inflammation of the fibrous cartilage pad found in the upper, front portion of the membrane (joint capsule) surrounding the forelimb fetlock joint. It is caused by repetitive trauma from exercise.

Digital Sheath Tenosynovitis – Windgalls or Windpuffs – are common in all types of working horses. These puffy, fluid-filled swellings along the backside of the front or hind limbs do not usually cause problems. However, if the swelling is only in one leg, it can lead to lameness.

A proper diagnose for any leg issue requires a thorough physical exam. A typical lameness exam will include a flexion test, nerve blocks, and x-rays, and maybe an ultrasound. Even then, some hairline fractures may be difficult to see even with radiographs. These cases may require a CT scan to further aid in a diagnosis. The prognosis is dependent on the gravity of condition and treatment plan. Some cases will require surgical intervention, supportive medication, extensive stall rest, and close monitoring.

As with any leg issue, seeking a prompt diagnosis is essential so that a treatment plan can be implemented as soon as possible to prevent more serious problems from developing Dr. Joanna Bronson graduated from MSU College of Veterinary Medicine at the top of her class. In 2005, she opened Bronson Veterinary Services in Coldwater, MI, a full-service equine, small animal hospital and surgical center.

Bronson Veterinary Services also has a mobile unit for equine calls and after hour emergency care.

The ligaments, tendons and bones of the lower limb

November 1-30, 2022 Lake State Park, Mears, MI

Text TROT to 80888

Come experience the Lake Michigan shoreline like you never have before. Floating over the sand as you traverse the dunes and Lake Michigan shoreline by horseback has been described as:

“The ultimate freedom” | “Best rides of my life!” | “Definitely a day to remember!” | “Dreams come true!” | “Can't wait to visit again!”

After enjoying horseback riding along the sandy shorelines in Mexico, Jenny Cook, Michigan Equine Trails Representative, was inspired to start a similar experience along the Lake Michigan shoreline. Cook researched where there are multiple miles of sandy Lake Michigan shoreline and found three miles managed by the State of Michigan Department of Natural Resources at Silver Lake State Park in Mears, Michigan. Cook and members of the Michigan Equine Trails Subcommittee (ETS) performed several private and public pilot rides in partnership with the MDNR and are working towards more opportunities for people with horses.

Ride Details:

Shoreline horseback riding opportunities will be offered after the Off-Road Vehicle season at Silver Lake State Park during the month of November. Please text “TROT” to 80888 to sign-up to be notified from the MDNR of upcoming opportunities.

• Participants must bring their own horses.

• Parking Reservations will be offered from the MDNR for a limited number of participants.

• Participants will be allowed to travel the most direct dune route across the ORV dunes starting at the ORV Dune Exit Ramp, 1.1 miles of ORV dunes to approximately 3 miles of Silver Lake State Park Lake Michigan shoreline.

• The ORV dune route and shoreline will be kept barefoot ready with dune route manure maintenance.

Partnership with Nature:

While horseback riding the Lake Michigan shoreline you are not only surrounded by nature with the beautiful, vast expanse of the dunes, sky, and Lake Michigan, you are also enjoying a partnership with a natural creature while surrounded by nature.

Traveling with Horses:

There are many factors to consider when traveling with horses. A full-size truck and horse trailer are needed. Horseback riders must know they will have access to a large parking area with ample space for trucks and trailers, loading/unloading horses behind horse trailers, tacking up horses on the sides of the horse trailers, and space to keep horses separate from other horses.

Riders need the time, knowledge, money, physical fitness, mental fitness, cool confidence, and horses that are physically fit, mentally fit, with good work ethics, and appropriate energy levels

Partnerships through layers of trust must be built with consistent, positive training, and communication with your horse.

Horseback riders haul horses, tack (saddle, saddle pad, bridle, halter), grooming supplies, medical supplies, emergency supplies, hay, and water for their horses.

Since the water will be already turned off due to winterization at Silver Lake State Park, horseback riders must bring their own water for both themselves and their horses.

In appreciation of these opportunities, participants are asked to bring their own manure forks and muck buckets to clean up after their own horses in the ORV parking area.

The dune route will be maintained by volunteers. Please consider joining the Michigan Shoreline Horse Friends volunteer group to support with donations and/or to volunteer in person. Please email: mihorsefriends@gmail.com

Vault toilets will be available in the ORV parking area and along the dune route.

It is best to dress for the weather with layers of clothes including a helmet, neck warmer, gloves, jacket, long pants, and boots. Be sure to pack an extra set of clothes, including boots in case you get wet.

Photo Credit:

Michigan Shoreline Horse Friends Michigan Equine Trails Subcommittee

Michigan Shoreline Horseback Rides, continued Riding Tips:

When riding up the dunes it is recommended to walk or “shuffle” your horse. Try to avoid loping, cantering, or running uphill as these gaits can cause your horse to dig deeper in the sand and be more strenuous for them.

Consider taking breaks to let your horse catch their breath as needed.

Consider riding with another seasoned shoreline rider. Bring Your Own Horse:

Consider riding parallel to the shoreline for a distance and not directly into the water to allow your horse to become accustomed to these new environments. Horses prefer solid ground. Crashing waves and swirling sand can be challenging for horses.

These rides are currently bring your own horse opportunities. There are no horse rentals available at this location. Please refer to the Michigan Horse Trails Directory online to find locations where there are horse rental opportunities throughout Michigan and horse trails, camping, events, and volunteer horse friends groups.

http://michiganhorsetrails.com/

A Few More Details About Horses:

Horses are cultural and historical. They have carved their place in history and carried us into the future on their backs. Today, horses are declared health partners as Equine Assisted Services (EAS) providing emotional, mental, physical, and substance abuse therapy

Horses are Prey Animals. Due to the natural pecking order of pre dator and prey, horses expect us to be the leaders of our partner ships. This provides opportunities to practice confidence, empathy, empowerment, kindness, leadership skills, patience, verbal and non verbal communication skills, and self discipline Horses appreciate when they are treated with respect.

Horses are not a simple hobby that is picked up or stored away for a season. Horses are year around, day and night, living, breathing, natural, therapy, recreation, show, sport, and transportation partners.

Please refer to the TRAILS SAFE PASSING PLAN: STOP, SPEAK, and STAND BACK for more information about horses and an action plan for when you encounter people with horses. https://elcr.org/trails safe-passing-plan/

Dreams become plans and plans become realities.

Many thanks to the organizations and individuals who have helped make these opportunities possible: Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Back Country Horsemen of Michigan, Grace Adventures, Michigan Equine Trails Subcommittee (ETS), Michigan Horse Council, the Michigan Shoreline Horse Friends, the Oceana County Fairgrounds, and the Silver Lake/Mears communities.

Brought to you by Jenny Cook (269) 998-5916, email: mi.trail.rep@gmail.com

• MI Trails Advisory Council Equestrian Representative (MTAC)

• SW MI Equestrian Trails Subcommittee Representative (ETS)

• Michigan Shoreline Horse Friends Board Member

Photo Credit:

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 School

Head on over to MSU's Tollgate Farm for the last of the 2022 Equine Education Super Series! Sessions will run from 6:30pm until 8pm at Tollgate Farm located in Novi, and will include outdoor hands on activities, so participants should dress appropriately for the farm. Wednesday, October 26th will be Equine Business, Budgets, and Balance Sheets and participants will be educated on: how to determine if you qualify as a farm for tax purposes, how to determine if you're tax exempt, benefits of being an LLC, how to become a non-profit, and more. The speaker for October 26th will be Corey Clark PhD, she is an MSU Extension educator and farm business management educator. Youth 18 and under are FREE, otherwise, it's $20 per person per session. For groups of 2 or more, the cost is $15 per person per session and you must register 2 or more people at one time. For more details about the 2022 Super Series, please contact Tom Guthrie at guthri19@msu edu and by phone at 517-788-4292 or contact Debbie Morgan at morga194@msu.edu and by phone at 248-347-3860, ext. 279.

Are you ready to leave for college and be on your own? Are you prepared to do adult tasks and have skills to be successful? Join the Adulting 101 Fall Series, hosted every Monday from 6pm-7pm by MSU Extension and 4 H, via Zoom! The October 10th Session: Choose Your Future will help anyone unsure of what career path to pursue after high school. Explore tools and reflect on how to choose a career path that is compatible with your interests, skills and personality. Register for this session at: https://www.canr.msu.edu/events/adult 101oct1022. The October 17th Session: Make a Spending Plan Work for You will discuss the benefits of a spending plan, identify the difference between needs and

wants and highlight the importance of an emergency fund. Register at: https://www. canr.msu. edu/events/adult101oct-17. The October 24th Session: Avoiding Money Mishaps will teach you to be aware before you share your personal/financial infor mation: Protect yourself and your money from fraud, predatory lenders, scammers and identity thieves. Register at: https:// www canr msu edu/events/adult101oct 2422. When you register for any session, a zoom link will be shared one week prior to the first class. For more details, please contact lead organizer Beth Martinez by email at mart1751@msu.edu.

Looking for ways to keep your 4-H kids active, engaged, and outdoors this fall? Look no further! Stories for Sprouts and Seedlings is in full swing for the 2022 season. Hosted at the 4-H Children's Garden on the campus of MSU, the final Stories for Sprouts and Seedlings of the season is the Big Pumpkin on October 19th. The reading will take place each third Thursday of the month from 10am-11am. Although there is no cost, registration is encouraged. Register for the Stories for Sprouts and Seedlings at: https://www canr msu edu/4h garden/events.

Join the Lenawee County 4 H program coordinator Sheryl Moll on November 8th from 7pm-8pm and learn to make a Mason jar autumn lantern. Hosted at the Tecumseh District Library, class participants will decorate their lanterns with colorful leaves, a tea light and various other seasonal decor ations. The non-refundable materials fee is $6 and registration is required by October 14th, 2022. You can both register and pay in-person at the Tecumseh District Library circulation desk For more information, please call Chuck Harpst at the Tecumseh District Library at 517-423-2238.

Attention All 4-H Art Lovers! Mark your calendars for the MI 4-H Creative Arts Celebration, November 11th-13th, 2022! Head to Roscommon to enjoy this popular

overnight workshop with an institute life skill focus each year. This year the focus will be the health benefits of the Arts from the 4-H Healthy Living & Mental Health First Aid team. 4-H participants will be learning new things, making new friends, putting all their creativity to work, and having a fabulous time! We are so excited to have an overnight face-to-face event at the new Ralph A MacMullan (RAM) Conference Center, Roscommon location. We have some great sessions lined up so far in sewing, textiles, visual arts, performing arts, crafts, art of cooking, photography, poetry, music, folk art, make-and-takes and so much more! The Fabric Sale will be going on as well as the Silent Auction this year in supporting the workshop and 4-H State Award winners. Registration is open and, to participate in the Arts Celebration, must be completed by October 19th, 2022. If you have questions, please reach out to Janis Brinn via email at brinn@msu.edu

For more information on how to get involved in Michigan 4-H, please contact Taylor Fabus, 4-H Horse and Pony Extension Educator, by email at tenlenta@msu.edu

Congratulations to all who competed in the 2022 Ohio State 4-H Horse Competitive Trail Ride September 10th! Results will be posted on the OSU 4-H Extension website: https://ohio4h org/events/state 4-h-horse competitive-trail-ride-0 4-H

Don't forget, the 2022 Celebration of Youth will be held on Thursday, October 6th at Leeds Farm in Ostrander, Ohio. Celebration of Youth is the largest fundraising event held annually benefitting Ohio 4-H Youth Development. This year's theme is “Honoring Our Past and Zipping Into the Future” and festivities will begin at 5 p.m. Before dinner, guests will have the opportunity to participate in our annual silent auction, as well as

4-H

2022 Equine Education Super Series

a number of farm activities, including hayrides, zip line, pumpkin jump, pedal carts, and more. Dinner will conclude at 7 p.m. and guests will get to watch the pig races and participate in the live auction before the evening wraps up around 8 p.m. This is a casual evening and all the money raised supports Ohio 4-H programming and oper ations. This event will follow the most current COVID-19 safety guidelines. Please note that this is a 21 and over event. The kids are away so the adults can play! For more information, please contact The Ohio 4-H Foundation by email at ohio4hfound ation@osu.edu or call 614-292-6943.

Save the date, Carving New Ideas 2022 will be held on Nov. 18th-20th at 4-H Camp Ohio! Carving New Ideas (CNI) is a statewide camping opportunity that focus es on workforce development, future for ward thinking, and program facilitation for 4-H members in grades 8-12. Campers develop their leadership skills while making new friends from across Ohio. Held at 4-H Camp Ohio in St. Louisville, this fall camp ing experience fosters new ways of think ing as older youth begin to look toward their future careers and education paths. Hosted by Collegiate 4-H at The Ohio State University, Collegiate 4-H members serve as session presenters, camp counselors, advisors, and more. As of mid-September, registration details are not yet available but will be posted online at https://ohio4h.org/ families/just teens/carving new ideas workshop-0. Feel free to contact Beth, the Carving New Ideas Camp Director, if you have questions by email: boomershine.10 @osu.edu or by call 614-292-6098.

Join us at Camp Ohio in St. Louisville on Saturday November 12th, 2022 for a 5K Run, Walk or Ruck! Don't miss out on this opportunity to explore the trails and see parts of Camp Ohio you may never have seen before. All proceeds will go towards fundraising for improvements and updates

at 4-H Camp Ohio. The race starts at 10am, followed by the awards ceremony. Lunch will be available for $15 for those that pre register. Sponsors are welcome to help make this day possible. T shirts will be guaranteed to all participants registered by October 23, 2022. Pre-register online at: https://www campohioadventure com/ Questions? email: programs.campohio@ gmail.com. To become a sponsor, please call Jaymie at 740-745-2194.

Do you have a Cloverbud at home who loves to read? Check out the 4-H Cloverbud Reading Adventures! A part of the Ohio 4-H Coverbud Program, these twenty reading adventures include activities, crafts, fun games, and snacks centered around a children's book. In-between horse shows, visit: https://u osu edu/cloverbudconnections/ reading/ to start your Cloverbud's next reading adventure!

If you have questions, contact Dr Kimberly Cole, Ohio State Extension Equine Specialist, by email: cole.436@osu.edu.

Attention Elkhart County's 4-H Saddle Club! Head to the Elkhart County 4-H Fair grounds on the following dates for these meetings: 4-H Saddle Club Jr Leader, October 2nd, 7pm-8pm, 4-H Saddle Club Junior Leader, November 6th, 6pm-7pm. For more information about the Elkhart 4-H Saddle Club, please reach out to Ashley Holdeman 574-354-7403 or email: ashleyholdeman4h @yahoo.com.

Head on over to the Clay County 4-H Fairgrounds for the following meetings: Horse & Pony Club meeting on October 20th from 7pm-8pm and Clay County 4-H Council meeting on November 9th from 7pm-8pm.

For more details about the Clay County 4-H Horse & Pony Club, please contact Club leader Travis Nuckols at 812-448-9041 or email the Clay County Extension Office at clayces@purdue.edu

Let's Get Cookin': It’s Fall About the Food is coming to Ohio County on October 12th! Starting at 10am, head over to the Ohio County Purdue Extension Office to get cookin' your favorite fall foods, sample new recipes, and leave with new friends! Cost for the event is $5 and includes your recipe packet/samples. Please RSVP to Purdue Extension Ohio County Office by calling 812-438-3656 on or before October 7th.

Come one, come all to the 2022-2023 4-H Project Fair in Boone County! Any grade level of 4-H members are welcome to show off their projects on Sunday, November 6th, 2pm-4pm at the Farm Bureau Inc. Community Building Cost for grades 3rd-12th is $35 per child, all Mini 4-H children (K-2nd) are free of charge. For more info., call Purdue Ext. Boone County 765-482-0705.

Calling all 4-Hers interested in the wizarding world of 4-H! On November 8th, Muggles & wizarding kids alike are invited to attend wizard’s school at Cloverwarts 4H School of Science and Imagination. Kids grades 3 8 will be sorted into houses. Create magical charms, and master de fense against the dark arts, potions, muggle studies, and quidditch awaits at the exciting wizarding world of 4-H! Reserve your spot by calling 812 738 4236, emailing Rebecca Wilkins at wilkin33@purdue.edu, or by emailing Anna Denny at denny4 @purdue.edu. This event is also looking for more volunteers.

For more information on Indiana 4-H news and events, contact Courtney Stierwalt, the 4-H Youth Development Extension Specialist, by email at dickerso@purdue edu While the website is under construction, you can still visit Purdue Horse Extension’s Facebook page to stay updated on 4-H and equine-related news.

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

Starch Improves Digestibility

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

According to a recent study, starch-rich diets may help improve digestibility of fiber when horses are fed low-quality forages. On the flip side, horses fed high-quality hay did not benefit from the addition of a concentrate with regard to fiber digestibility.

“These findings suggest that feeding concentrates, which are often high in starch, may have more benefit than simply providing horses with additional calories from a lower quality forage,” explained Kathleen Crandell, Ph.D., a nutritionist for Kentucky Equine Resear ch. This finding was discovered during an in vitro digestibility study conducted by researchers at Missouri State University

“In vitro digestibility systems are an alternative to digestibility studies used in live horses (in vivo). To determine digestibility in vivo, nutrients in the horses' feed are measured against nutrients found in the horse's feces,” she said. “The difference determines how much of a given nutrient is digested and absorbed by the horse.” When using in vitro systems, anaerobic microbes are isolated from fecal samples collected from donor horses. They are placed in fermentation jars along with the feed to be digested to mimic the cecal environment. The feed and microbial mixture are incubated at a constant body temperature (39°C) for a set amount of time (48 hours), the same length of time feed would remain in the hindgut. The nutrients in the feed before and after fermentation are meas ured to calculate digestibility

“Regardless of the system used, high digestibility means that horses are able to extract the nutrients efficiently from their feed and less feed is 'wasted' compared to low digestibility in which horses get less out of the feed,” explained Crandell.

Researchers use in vitro digestibility systems when conducting research on dry matter, organic matter, and fiber digestibility According to Crandell, it is easier to quantify fiber fermentation in a laboratory setting rather than in the field.

In a recent in vitro digestibility study, researchers hypothesized that the diets of donor horses would affect the microbial populations in the feces that were then used to digest forages in digestibility studies, thus affecting results. If this hypothesis proved true, then the digestibility study results would vary depending on the diet and fecal microbiome of the donor. This may prompt the use of pooled fecal samples from various donors to help decrease the effect of the donor's individual fecal microbiome and make digestibility study results more generalizable.

“As expected, the donor diets altered the digestibility of feeds. But it was somewhat surprising that the high-starch diets improved the digestibility of low-quality forages that had crude protein levels less than 8% and more than 72% neutral detergent fiber These results suggest that horses can get more out of a low-quality hay if they are offered a concentrate with it. This is encouraging because there are times when it is difficult to get high-quality hay and owners need to feed what they can get their hands on.”

Crandell also pointed out that it was likely the starch in the concentrate that affected the microbial population that fermented the low-quality hay for it to be more digestible.

It is important to understand, according to Crandell, that there is a difference between low-quality hay (clean, but higher fiber and lower protein) and poor quality hay (bleached, heat damaged,

moldy, or dusty). This research does not suggest that adding grain will make up for nutrients not found in poor quality hay

“For horses that can get enough calories from hay, a low-intake ration balancer or a well-formulated vitamin and mineral supple ment should also be fed. This ensures that any nutritional shortfalls of the forage are met,” Crandell recommended.

Kentucky Equine Research is an international equine nutrition, research, and consultation company serving horse owners and the feed industry The company’s goals are to advance the industry’s knowledge of equine nutrition and exercise physiology, and support the nutritional care of all horses. Visit KER online at: https://ker.com/

5 Winter Senior Horse Care Tips

By Valley Vet Supply | https://www.valleyvet.com/

Horse owners, are you geared up to keep horses in wintertime safe, sound and healthy? There is much to think of, and plan ahead for, as it relates to winter horse care – especially if you are caring for an older horse.

Our friends at Absorbine said, “Winter can be particularly tough on our beloved senior horses. Cold temperatures can mean stiff, sore joints, snow and ice can be a challenge to navigate, and brisk Northern winds can deliver a deeper chill to old bones.”

How can you take extra precautions to keep an older horse comfortable this winter? Read up on these tips from Absorbine.

Although horses in good health with full coats do just fine in the winter elements without a horse blanket, senior horses often need a little extra warmth. If you have a senior horse that has trouble keeping weight, has health issues, or does not grow as thick a coat as he once did, it is a good idea to provide them with a blanket.

Waterproof and windproof is best, protecting them from icy gales and wintery mix precipitation that can permeate the coat and chill him to the bone. Make sure the blanket fits well, does not cause rubs, and straps are secure and properly adjusted. It is also important to remove the blanket regularly to groom and check their weight. Last, outdoor horses of all ages need a wind shelter in cold temperatures. A basic lean-to with a roof for them to stand under is all you need to keep the worst of the rain, snow, and wind off your horse. They will be warm, cozy, and stylish all winter long

Pack on the calories.

Winter is of course the time for horses to bulk up, as they use the calories they intake to feed their inner furnace and keep them warm from the inside. Older horses often are not able to utilize their calories as well as they did as youngsters, and are typically on the leaner side anyhow.

Sometimes, our old friends need a little extra help staying plump when it is cold. Hay is the key here, and more of it. Increasing your senior horse's helping of quality hay in the winter will help add calories and keep his body warm. As a horse's back teeth wear down with age, older horses may have trouble chewing their food, so be sensitive to that. And if this is the case, look to alternatives like hay cubes that can be soaked until soft for easy chowing.

Ensure horses are hydrated.

Proper hydration is critical for all horses but especially senior horses in winter They are prime candidates for impaction colic, and lots of water will help reduce that risk and keep everything moving smoothly through the system. Be sure to supply your horse with plenty of clean water that is a comfortable temperature to drink all day, every day Be sure to keep it from freezing by keeping it pro tected or using insulated and heated buckets. If your older horse is reluctant to drink, try warmer water, or add a little apple juice for a tasty treat. Keep a salt lick accessible to help him work up a thirst. Keep paddocks safe.

You definitely do not want your senior slipping and falling out in the winter elements, so inspect paddocks and pastures regularly to make sure they are accessible and safe for the old folks. Keep icy spots in check by sanding regularly, and clear paths if the snow is very deep. Access to shelter is a great source of comfort for senior

horses in winter; a simple lean-to shed can be enough to offer relief from snow, wind, ice, and rain.

Ensure horses are comfortable.

ButeLess, a favorite Devil's Claw supplement for horses, is known for bringing relief from the aches and discomfort that may be exacerbated in cold winter months. To help ease the aches and pains that bitter cold winters accentuate, include a scoop in your senior horse's daily feed. The Devil's Claw, Vitamin B-12, and Yucca will provide long-term relief the natural way. These ingredients are gentle on the stomach, so you can deliver the relief your senior needs without worrying about upsetting his tummy Stiff, creaky joints are common in the winter, but with a little ButeLess, he will be bounding happily through snowdrifts until spring

Content originally provided by Absorbine, with minor additions from Valley Vet Supply – https://www.valleyvet.com/

Keep older horses snug in a rug

Horsekeeping Budget Savers

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

Horses are expensive, but I am not telling you anything new here. The thing is, we are more likely to start cutting corners in other areas of our life rather than when it comes to our animals. Ramen anyone? However, with a little bit of creativity and preparation, there are ways to save around the barn and keep your budget balanced. It does not seem like we are going to be seeing prices lower ing anytime soon, so it pays to think smart when it comes to horse keeping on our farm.

Save on hay - Ensure that you have the right amount of hay for the winter. Plan ahead and get a little more now or risk paying exor bitant costs per bale if you end up falling short in the spring. With the hay that you do have, it is wise to not just throw it out on the ground and hope your horse eats more than he stomps on. Instead, invest in feeders that will help keep the hay contained so it is not so easy for your horse to pull it out and waste it. This goes for indoor and outdoor feeders, that small investment will pay for itself in hay savings. As a bonus, slowing down a horse's rate of consumption is healthier as it mimics natural grazing patterns. Of course, getting a good quality hay that your horse wants to eat is also important and the foundation of every good feeding program.

Feed quality over quantity – When looking for the right grain for your horse, it is best to consult a nutritionist to get the best infor mation and a plan detailed for your horse. Many feed companies have an in-house consultant that will provide free information based on the individual needs of your horse. While it might seem like you are saving by grabbing the cheapest bag of feed, bargain feeds often require much more be fed with an inferior product that may not give your horse what it needs. A quality ration balancer can be fed in smaller quantities and therefore lasts much longer and pro vides better nutrition for your horse.

Save on electricity – As we move toward the cooler weather season and the days get shorter, it will soon be time to prepare for frost in the water buckets. This year, consider ditching your electric water bucket and going for a thermal option. Not only will you save on electricity, but it is a safer option than plug-ins and can be used all year round. Similarly, consider swapping out standard lighting with LED's which will also save on the electric bill. Put lights on timers and check that motion sensor lights are in good working order before the darkest season arrives.

Bedding bargains – Horses may soon be spending more time in their stalls, so it makes sense to prepare for more efficient mucking. Just by adding mats, you can save on bedding costs. Finding mats that won't break the bank may include looking for mats that are manufacturers seconds. Although these new mats do come with a defect that gained them the 'seconds' designation, it is usually something that can be worked with and will end up saving a considerable amount. Good quality bedding may cost a bit more up front, but its absorbency capabilities will far outperform their counterparts. Pellets and easy pick bedding are often favorites for ease in cleaning and minimized waste.

Barnyard clean-up – By keeping a close eye on things around the barn that may need a quick fix or some maintenance, you can easily prevent those small projects from turning into major work. Tend to branches that might fall on fence lines. Add a line of electric to keep nosy horses off fence lines and prevent having to replace boards.

Ensure that waterlines are insulated and ready for the chilly temps to avoid freezing hydrants. Maintain pastures with mowing and harrowing to aid in grass production for next season. Make sure that tractors, implements and even smaller tools are serviced annually to keep them running for years to come.

Stay organized – The fall is a great time to go through the tack room, barn and trailer and take inventory of all the items you have. Having a place for everything helps avoid re-buying items when you know you have something but just can find it. Organized spaces are safer and lend themselves to keeping things in better repair. It is also a good time to determine what sheets, blankets, and other items you may need going into winter so that you have a little time to shop for the best options and avoid impulse buys when the temp erature dips. Have more stuff than you need? Turn extra items into cash by selling online or at a tack swap or consignment store.

An ounce of prevention – Do not skimp on your horse's routine medical or farrier needs, when budgets get tight, sometimes people will forgo the annual appointments or add extra weeks between trims/shoeing, but this can come at a greater cost. Without proper up-keep, you are putting your horse at greater risk for getting sick or hurt. Instead, coordinate with your barn mates to save on barn call fees, get suggestions from your vet on cutting back costs on medications/vaccinations (think rebates), and keep your horse on a routine farrier schedule.

Having horses will never be an inexpensive hobby, but it is some thing that our community understands as more of a need than a want. With budgets getting a little tighter, it pays to be a savvy shopper With a little ingenuity, there are many ways to save.

Lisa Kiley is a horse enthusiast who has worked in the equine industry and shown horses for many years. She is also a proud member of the Cashman’s Horse Equipment Team in Delaware, Ohio. Cashman's Horse Equipment proudly provides top quality pro ducts to the equine and agricultural community, with a commitment to sourcing environmentally conscious merchandise and items made in the U.S.A

For more information visit us online at: https://www.cashmans.com/

Lisa and her horse, Cotton

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oakland county tack & craft sale