The Stable Magazine - August 2014

FREE MONTHLY

The

AUGUST 2014

STABLE HORSE MAGAZINE

BREEDERS

special

REDUCING STRESS

for horses during

TRANSPORT

Riding Inspiration GET YOUR BUM IN THAT SADDLE!

RUG SWAPS! Which rug for when?

THE WORLD’S

CRAZIEST HORSE LAWS Taking a humerous look at

HORSE PERSONALITY TYPES

www.thestablemagazine.com The Stable Magazine www.thestablemagazine.com

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GROSVENOR Equitie A rubber breakpoint safety tether for use in the stable, yard or float. Strong enough to secure your horse but provides an instant, reliable breakpoint.

Horse & petwear washbag Wash rugs, saddle cloths, girths, bandages, dog bedding etc in the washbag to prevent animal hair clogging up your washing machine and protect it from buckle damage.

Borstiq Brushes

Quarter-marking Stencils

These brushes are in a league of their own - made in Sweden from hardwood and natural fibres they are of superior quality, eco-friendly and ergonomically designed.

As used by Andrew Hoy at the London Olympics! You too can personalise your horse with highquality brush/spray stencils in fun designs. Made in England, they are magnetic for easy storage. Brush on or use with colour sprays.

Equishave A non-clogging razor for safe and easy trimming.

Design by The Stable - www.thestablemagazine.com

Clipping Stencils

Micro-fibre coat shine mitt

Re-useable clipping stencils in a range of designs; adhesive for

Removes dust and creates amazing coat shine.

easy application.

V-tie Re-useable velcro safety tether. With a firm breakpoint, ideal for restless horses.

Silicone Plaiting Bands Super stretchy and tear resistant.

Stronger than traditional plaiting bands.

CURRENTLY LOOKING FOR STOCKISTS!

We stock these and many more ingenious products which were previ PO Box 6426, Queanbeyan East NSW 2620 ph: 02 6238 2131 grosvenorpark@internode.on.net 2 The Stable Magazine www.thestablemagazine.com

PARK PRODUCTS Innovative equestrian and pet products

Smart Grooming Show Prep Products For an immaculate show ring finish. Made in the UK and used by the UK’s Team Harvey professional show team. Coat shine, quarter-marking and plaiting sprays, detanglers, make-up and more.

Cotton Canvas Bags Roomy, strong, eco-friendly bags.

Smart Grooming Tidy manes & tails the humane way

BEFORE

Revolutionary grooming tools, including mane and tail thinners which give the pulled look in minutes without discomfort, and coat thinners to remove excess hair from horses and dogs.

Stocks Beautiful cotton and silk stocks and scrunchies handmade in England exclusively for Grosvenor Park Products in Australia.

Chester Jefferies Riding Gloves The finest quality gloves handmade in England since 1936.

AFTER

Like ‘Grosvenor Park Products’ on Facebook for special offers and new product news!

iously only available in Europe. Order by phone, email or online.

www.grosvenorparkproducts.com.au The Stable Magazine www.thestablemagazine.com

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The

STABLE ISSUE #18 AUGUST 2014

www.thestablemagazine.com

18 RIDING 52

CONTENTS

info@thestablemagazine.com

FEATURE STORIES INSPIRATION

40 WEIRD 54 HORSE LAWS

44

BREEDING FEATURE

INCLUDING ‘GIVING YOUR MARE THE BEST CHANCE’

- KENTUCKY EQUINE RESEARCH

4

RUG

SWAPS

WHICH RUG FOR WHEN?

62

REDUCING STRESS WHEN

TRANSPORTING HORSES

Weird Horse Laws

REGULARS 6 14 16 76 60 80 83 84

PROJECT HOPE UPDATE

Equine News Horse World Best Of The Web Hot Products Tanja Kraus Horsemanship

The Tail End The Idea Of Order In Next Issue

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40

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK!

facebook.com/thestablemagazine

30

CONTENTS

RIDING

INSPIRATION

Rugs

54 62

TRANSPORT FEATURE

EN?

FOR WH RUG SWAPS - WHICH RUG

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5

The

STABLE LIKE US!

facebook.com/thestablemagazine

PO Box 179, Epping, Victoria 3076 0481 307 608 Editor: Stacey Bright stacey@thestablemagazine.com

Email us! info@thestablemagazine.com

www.thestablemagazine.com © The Stable Magazine 2014. All rights reserved. Reproduction in part or whole is not permitted without obtaining prior written permission. Views expressed in The Stable are not necessarily those of the publisher. While every effort is made to provide accurate information, the publisher will not be held accountable for consequences of undertaking advice contained within. Advertising guidelines can be located within this issue. All advertisers agree to these guidelines when booking advertisements in The Stable,

EQUINENEWS

LAW DECLARES HORSES ARE NOT NATURALLY VICIOUS OR MISCHIEVOUS

s

There has been an ongoing court battle in the American state of Connecticut over whether horses were inherently vicious or mischievous in the eyes of the law.

State Governor Daniel Malloy has signed a new state law that protects the owners and handlers of domesticated horses from the consequences of a recent court ruling in a case in which a horse bit a boy. The new legislation makes it clear in state statute that the animals do not possess a “naturally mischievous or vicious propensity”.

“Connecticut has a large population of horse owners and handlers, and as such, I’m happy to sign this legislation so that we can ensure their operations can continue without possible negative consequences,” Malloy said.

The legislation was introduced in response to rulings by the Appellate and Supreme Courts, which may have resulted in increased insurance rates for horse owners and handlers State agriculture commissioner Steven Reviczky said the law would provide meaningful protection for the equine sector in the state and limit the potential damage and unintended consequences of the court’s decision.

Agriculture contributes about $US3.5 billion annually to the state’s economy and accounts for 28,000 jobs.

>

ADVERTISING GUIDELINES

All advertising in The Stable must be pre-paid unless an account has been established by the advertiser.

A booking form must be completed for each advert or advertising package unless a prior arrangement has been made with the advertiser. Advertisers (and agencies acting on behalf of an advertiser) upon submitting adverts or content to be used in advertisements indemnify The Stable against all claims, demands, costs, penalties, suits, liabilities, proceedings and actions of any nature caused in any fashion of any kind resulting from the publication of supplied material. Advertisers of veterinary products must ensure that their products comply with all necessary governing bodies and indemnify The Stable should their advertisement be in breach of any law, regulation, copyright, etc. The Stable takes no responsibility for advertisements, photographs and other material submitted by advertisers including but not limited to the authenticity of claims within advertisements, permissions for photograph use, and accuracy of information provided. The Stable gives no warranty on ads appearing in the publication and will not be held liable in any means for loss suffered by any person as a consequence of actions as a result of publishing any material within The Stable Magazine. *Free advert design offered by The Stable is for ads appearing in The Stable magazine only. Artwork and design by The Stable are property of The Stable and may not be used elsewhere without written permission of the designer. Artwork may be purchased. See www.thestablemagazine.com/design for more information. The Stable retains the right to refuse any advertising deemed unsuitable by the publisher.

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SPOTLIGHT AMERICAN EAGLE 16.1hh 5yo Bay Gelding $20,000

South Australia

Get ready for show season

FROM THE HOOF UP WITH

Sharing in the caring of horses for over 30 years

Ad design by The Stable - www.thestablemagazine.com

www.equinade.com

- Premium quality animal and leather care products The Stable Magazine www.thestablemagazine.com

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KERNUTRITIONNEWS EQUINENEWS

Anti-Oxidants for Horses – Are they Needed?

Oxidation is a normal metabolic process that allows horses to transform the carbohydrates, fats, and proteins they devour in meals to energy.

The creation of free radicals, compounds that have the potential to irreparably damage cells, is one unfortunate and unavoidable spinoff.

If left unchecked, the oxidation that occurs at the cellular level in horses and other mammals can cause muscular fatigue severe enough to compromise performance.

When a horse is exercising strenuously, natural stores of antioxidants have difficulty providing sufficient protection against the cascade of free radicals generated from aerobic metabolism, making it necessary to supplement antioxidants.

Vitamin E contributes most generously to the natural antioxidant defences of the horse. Cereal grains typically fed to horses have variable vitamin E concentrations.

Horses may derive sufficient amounts of vitamin E from fresh forage or hay; however, the vitamin content abates as forages mature and are harvested and stored.

Vitamin E is often linked with selenium, a micromineral that also possesses potent antioxidant properties.

Vitamin C, often referred to as ascorbic acid, also plays a vital role in neutralizing harmful free radicals. Because of its watersoluble nature, vitamin C can work both inside and outside the cell to combat free radical damage. Vitamin C also helps by regenerating vitamin E. The horse does not have a requirement for vitamin C because it normally can be formed in the liver from glucose.

Even idle horses need a steady supply of vitamin E for routine tissue maintenance

8

and healthy immune status. Horses grazing fresh pasture usually take in enough of this vital nutrient to meet day-to-day requirements, but vitamin E is quickly lost as forage becomes dormant or is dried and stored as hay. Horses kept in stalls without daily access to green grass benefit from vitamin E supplementation, as do many horses during the winter months when grazing is limited or nonexistent. As research has revealed the need for a steady supply of this important vitamin, equine nutritionists have worked to discover the best way to deliver vitamin E in a stable, digestible form. In order to understand the difficulty of this seemingly simple task, it is necessary first to realize that the term “vitamin E” actually refers to a family of substances. Among these, only two-alpha-tocopherol and gamma-tocopherol-possess the potent antioxidant properties that make the nutrient so important to the equine diet. Alpha-tocopherol is the most biologically active, and is the form found most abundantly in the horse’s body.

Research has revealed that vitamin E varies in its potency, based on whether it is natural or synthetic. The chemical structures of synthetic and natural vitamin E differ. Natural vitamin E is recognized as d-alpha-tocopherol, and is made up of a single isomer. Commercial supplies of natural alpha-tocopherol (d-alphatocopherol) are limited, making it an expensive component of animal feeds.

In addition, the substance is unstable unless it is processed into a form known as d-alpha-tocopherol acetate, a step that protects against chemical changes as the feed is manufactured and stored. Efforts to synthesize a stable, inexpensive alphatocopherol have resulted in a compound of eight different molecules, only one of which is structurally similar to the natural form. This synthetic vitamin E is known as dl-alpha-tocopherol. Research

The Stable Magazine www.thestablemagazine.com

has shown that natural source vitamin E is more readily available to the horse and depending on the preparation, is 1.6 to over 6 times more bioavailable than synthetic vitamin E. Further studies have shown that supplementation with synthetic vitamin E (dl-alphatocopherol acetate) is the least effective in elevating plasma tocopherol levels in horses. However, primarily because of its lower cost, synthetic vitamin E is frequently added to equine feeds, even though it offers quite limited bioavailability to the horse. Such feeds can legally claim to contain vitamin E, and well-meaning owners who purchase these feeds may be mistaken about providing adequate supplementation unless they read feed product labels to differentiate between vitamin E forms.

Barastoc and KER horse feeds contain natural source vitamin E. KER Preserve and KERx Nano are high quality supplements containing sources of natural vitamin E and highly effective ways at increasing the vitamin E in a horse’s diet.

KER Preserve is a scientifically formulated source of natural vitamin E and organic selenium, as well as vitamin C and magnesium. KERx Nano E is potent source of liquid natural vitamin E that uses revolutionary nano technology to allow for optimum bioavailability.

For more information on antioxidants and how to ensure your performance horse is receiving optimum amounts in their diet, contact KER on advice@ker. com or at 1800 772 198.

The Stable Magazine www.thestablemagazine.com

9

AUSTRALIA POST TO SHOWCASE

EQUINENEWS

EQUESTRIAN EVENTS Australia Post has released a new equestrian focused stamp issue.

The stamps will feature dressage, cross-country and showjumping, polocrosse and pony club on five 70c stamps.

“Many Australians enjoy horses through pony clubs, competition and leisure, and these form the focus of this stamp issue,” said Australia Post Philatelic manager Michael Zsolt

SALE ON NOW! Clipping Stencils were

$40.00

“We trust collectors and especially equine enthusiasts will jump at the opportunity to collect these equestrianthemed stamps and the associated products.”

now

$34.00

“Today equestrian disciplines such as dressage, show jumping and eventing are practised at local, state and national levels, and are also represented at the Olympic Games. They showcase very different sets of skills and ability in both the rider and horse and polocrosse is also played at both national and international levels, with the World Cup held every two years,” he added.

Heaps of styles available!

These reusable clipping stencils are made from a heavyweight sticky vinyl which stays in place whilst you clip the design onto your horse. Once you have clipped on the design, simply wash the stencil and put it back onto its sticky backing for safe storage until the next use. The stencils are very easy to apply and are best used in conjunction with a small set of trimmers. The stencils come with full usage instructions and you can view a demonstration video at the Grosvenor Park Products website.

A big bag for carrying your riding gear. You’ll be amazed how much it holds. This roomy bag folds down flat to fit inside a smaller version of itself, also included in the price. The smaller version makes a handy carry bag. Made from 10oz cotton canvas.

Eco friendly - makes a great gift!

Horse Stuff Big Bag

The Equestrian Events stamp issue is available from 15 July 2014 at participating Australia Post retail outlets, via mail order on 1800 331 794 and online at auspost.com.au/stamps while stocks last.

were

$30.00

now

$25.50

www.grosvenorparkproducts.com.au 10

The Stable Magazine www.thestablemagazine.com

>

>

Harness your potential.

Agriculture

Equine Management

Agribusiness

Visit us at Equitana, Riverina Pavilion, site 124 for a course prospectus and career advice to inspire the business-minded achiever inside you.

Marcus Join us for theOldham FREE Marcus Minds Weekend.

OPEN DAY

At Marcus Oldham, we believe that when it comes to your future, it’s important to invest in a career not just a course. As Australia’s only independent agricultural and equine management college, Marcus Oldham offers students a unique educational experience. Our one year Diploma of Equine Management ensures graduates excel as the next generation of innovative, well-educated and passionate industry leaders.

For further information please contact Marcus Oldham at www.marcusoldham.vic.edu.au or call 1800 623 500.

Sunday 10th August 2014

A GIFT VOUCHER you TO HORSELAND. We’dWIN love to welcome and talk to you about our courses and your career opportunities Simply add your details below and visit us at Equitana, Riverina Pavilion, site 124 to be in the draw to win a $100 or $200 voucher.

10.00am – 2.30pm 145 Pigdons Road, Waurn Ponds, Geelong Vic 3216 NameAddress: ___________________________________________ Email ___________________________________________ Address ___________________________________________ Phone ( University) ) ______________________ Age ___________ (same road as Deakin _________________________ Postcode ________

Mobile

___________________________________________

Check website for schedule of events

www.marcusoldham.vic.edu.au

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The right start

11

EQUINENEWS

MAREE TOMKINSON AND THE BEAUTIFUL DIAMANTINA IV

WEG SELECTION! DRESSAGE TEAM ANNOUNCED

PARA EQUESTRIAN TEAM ANNOUNCED

The national selectors have confirmed Australia’s Dressage team for the FEI Word Equestrian Games (WEG). The team of four will consist of: Mary Hanna and Sancette, Kristy Oatley and Ronan 2, Lyndal Oatley and Sandro Boy and Maree Tomkinson and Diamantina IV.

The Australian team for the FEI 2014 World Equestrian Games (WEG) has been announced. All four of the riders selected will be making their games debut at Normandy.

The riders and horses are: Nicole Blanks and Vledder (Grade 4) Nicole showed strong performances at international events including a score of 69% in the team and individual championships tests in Belgium.

Joann Formosa and Worldwide PB (Grade 1B) Formosa and Worldwide PB won gold in the grade 1B individual championship test at the London Paralympic Games. In 2013 she won the FEI Against All Odds Award, which is for a person who has pursued their equestrian dreams in the face of adversity.

Chelsea Higgins and HP Comedian (Grade 3) Chelsea was a finalist in Equestrian Australia’s domestic athlete of the year awards. HP Comedian achieved a PB score of 70.85 in the individual championship test in February this year. Chelsea will also celebrate her 20th birthday at the games.

Elizabeth Sobecki and Hatero DE PB (Grade 3) Elizabeth was part of the Australian team that competed at the 2012 Hong Kong CPEDI3*. She was also named the nontravelling reserve ahead of the London Paralympic Games.

Hannah Dodd and Grand Sam are the team’s nontravelling reserve combination. Hannah was a member of the 2012 London Paralympic Games team.

JUMPING TEAM ANNOUNCED Australia’s Jumping Team for the 2014 World Equestrian Games (WEG) has been announced.

Amy Graham and Bella Baloubet Amy and Baloubet were the reserve combination for the Australian team at the 2012 London Olympic Games.

The pair recently finished third in the Spangenberg CSI3* Grand Prix. This will be her first WEG. Julia Hargreaves and Vedor In her Olympic debut Julia and Vedor made it through to the individual final finishing in equal 35th position. This will be her first WEG. Jamie Kermond and Quite Cassini/Killeter Park Caracas Jamie first represented Australia at a WEG in Aachen in 2006. He is the current Australian Show Jumping Champion and competed in the FEI World Cup Jumping Final in Lyon.

James Paterson-Robinson and Boris James has represented Australia at the Olympics and WEG having competed at both the Kentucky WEG in 2010 and the London Olympics in 2012 Edwina Tops-Alexander & Ego Van Orti/Old Chap Tame Edwina is a two-time Olympian and a three-time WEG representative. She is currently the overall series leader of the 2014 Global Champions Tour, a title she has won twice.

12

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Go Aussies @ WEG!

We can’t wait to cheer for you all!

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Also available from our online store - Hoof Care Products ThrushEze® Hoof Powder, Black Heeler seedy toe treatment, Bellotta rasps and steel brush hoof picks.

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13

HORSEWORLD Evention TV Presents: The Difference Between Regular People and Horse People

In the optimised version of The Stable, this video plays on screen.

To view this clip, visit: http://youtu.be/bEKPSz38nSI

Don’t you hate it when...

Don’t you hate it when you go to groom your horse only to find that you can’t remember where you have left half of the brushes in your grooming kit? ... I’m sure I’ll find them in the paddock somewhere!

GRRRR!

- grumpy pony owner 14

The Stable Magazine www.thestablemagazine.com

A Pony Known As Satan...

What started as a cleverly written humourous ‘for sale’ ad coming from a horse rescue operation has turned into a social media sensation - ‘Satan’ the palomino pony now has over 21,000 Facebook followers and counting!

Pony Available at your own risk…

Meet Presley (AKA Satan) (Got the first name, earned the other) American Mutt Pony (AKA Welsh/ QH cross) 3 yr old gelding (still thinks he is a stud) (Gelded 3 weeks ago) 13 hands of fireball. He isn't broke to ride and most days barely broke to lead. (If you can even catch him) He DOES rear buck and kick a little bit. Even a bite on occasion (Especially if you try to touch him) You can pick up his feet (if you have a death wish. ) He would excel as a bronc prospect (for little Cowboys) or maybe to be good at just being a lawn mower. Or (if you don't value your life) a trail or show pony. His drug of choice is Ace. He also likes eating you out of house and home and getting fat on air. But he does have some ok things about him. He has that gorgeous color everyone pays for. He respects fences. He gets along great with other horses. (Especially mares) He is cute as a button.

He will remind you to pay your health insurance on time.

He loads in a trailer great. (If you can catch him) He loves horse treats (will take them with or without chunks of your hand.) He has had a saddle on once after a tube of ace and a lot of blood, sweat and tears (mostly mine) He is a beautiful mover (while trying to catch him you will see this movement a lot)! So if you're looking for your next million dollar mustang project he is your man!! $200.00 fee (so the meat buyers stay away) Don't miss out on this amazing opportunity to show the world your as crazy as people think you are!! Free bottle of tequila with purchase! ! (You will need it) Only the very experienced need apply!!!

Get the real story at: https://www.facebook.com/PonyknownasSatan

SPOTLIGHT DADS STEPPIN IT OUT 15.2hh 2yo Chestnut Gelding $11,000 Victoria

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03 5775 1657 info@goneriding.com.au

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We use, recommend and sell Nungar Knots Rope products. All Australian made and the highest quality. Nungar Knots yachting rope headstalls and leads are manufactured to strict guidelines to assure a superior standard of materials and craftsmanship. All colours and sizes available in the headstalls and lead ropes. Stock up now for all your Spring Training needs!

Design by The Stable - www.thestablemagazine.com

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Visit www.goneriding.com.au or drop in to our Store in Mansfield, in Victoria’s High Country – where the trails are on top of the world!

Your one stop shop for horse supplies and riding equipment!

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BESTOFTHEWEB

EQUESTRIAN MEMES

THAT GOT US GIGGLING

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Where horses and riders get spoiled!

EASY ONLINE SHOPPING - FANTASTIC PRODUCTS AT FANTASTIC PRICES! h Gifts h Jewellery

h Tack & Equipment h Grooming Products h Breeches & Jodhpurs h Shirts & Jackets & more!

The look of lingerie and the comfort of sports underwear

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17

EQUINENEWS

SPOTLIGHT EXCEPTIONAL TB GELDING

THE STARS CONVERGE ON ADELAIDE! 13 - 16 NOVEMBER, 2014

16.2hh 7yo Brown Gelding

The STARS will be out… At the Australian 3DE in 2014!

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SHOP ONLINE

TO YOUR HEART’SS

CONTENT!

Head on over to the National Equestrian Wholesalers website now!

Why, you ask? The NEW online store features more than 3,500+ equestrian products that are in stock and available now. From rugs to rider clothing, the NEW range includes everything you need to keep your horse happy, healthy and looking great! The best part? Spend over $150 and they’ll freight your order FREE to your nearest saddlery,

Already locked in are: * Olympic and European championship Gold medallist, Dirk Schrade from Germany * Recent Badminton WINNER, UK based Sam Griffiths * Last year’s Aus 3de superstar winner, Chris Burton * Triple Gold medallist, UK based Andrew Hoy * Aussie Silver medallist and Canadian Team Trainer, US based Clayton Fredericks. & more high profile special guests to be announced soon!

Olympic medallists and competitors from around Australia, New Zealand and the world will be going head to head to to fight for the Southern Hemisphere’s richest eventing prize!

LATEST NEWS...

With something for everyone this year, there will be: * Top level eventing action * The biggest eventing parties ever * The all new Member’s Pavillion 3 day pass with entry on to the Rymill Park Island * Fine wine * Great food – this year by the Hilton Adelaide * Christmas shopping * Big screens in the Market Place and Rymill Park

so you can pick it up at your convenience! Don’t forget to

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check out the specials page for great deals on a range of

* Friday Twilight POLO IN THE PARK !

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ON ORDERS $150+ DELIVERED TO YOUR FAVOURITE STORE!

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Many more exciting announcements are still to come, so stay tuned on our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/AI3DE - and http://australian3de.com.au for all the details!

TICKETS ON SALE NOW THROUGH TICKETEK. Visit http://australian3de.com.au/ticket-information to find out more and book your tickets to this must-see event!

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19

Cheers ! to that

COULD HOPS HELP WITH LAMINITIS? Hops are a key component in beer making.

They provide flavor, bittering and also act as a natural preservative and fight against bacterial growth in the beer. The question is could they help in the fight against laminitis?

Researchers have investigated whether beta acids found in hops could be used to reduce the overgrowth of bacteria in equine hindgut and control fructan fermentation in pastureassociated laminitis. Their findings were reported in the Journal of Applied Microbiology Research led by Brittany Harlow, of the Department of Animals and Food Sciences at the University of Kentucky, sought to determine if the antibacterial properties of hops could be used to limit the bacterial overgrowth that occurs in some cases of laminitis.

Harlow and her colleagues found that when suspensions of equine faecal matter were enriched with inulin (a type of fructan) they fermented the inulin resulting in acid production and a fall in ph. When beta acid lupulone found in hops was added to the culture, lactate

production was inhibited and the decrease in pH was limited.

It was also found that the inulin-fermenting bacteria were sensitive to beta acids and that when added directly to the cultures there was a reduction in bacterial growth and decreased lactate production.

They concluded that the beta acid found in hops has the potential to decrease the growth of the bacteria responsible for pasture-associated laminitis.

Marcus Join us for theOldham FREE Marcus Minds Weekend.

OPEN DAY Sunday 10th August 2014 We’d love to welcome you and talk to you about our courses and your career opportunities

10.00am – 2.30pm Address: 145 Pigdons Road, Waurn Ponds, Geelong Vic 3216 (same road as Deakin University) Check website for schedule of events

www.marcusoldham.vic.edu.au 20

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The right start to getting ahead.

Photo: Nutto, freeimages.com

EQUINENEWS

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© 2014 Aon Risk Services Australia Pty Limited ABN 17 000 434 720 AFSL No. 241141 This information may be regarded as general advice.That is, your personal objectives, needs or financial situations were not taken into account when preparing this information. Accordingly, you should consider the appropriateness of any general advice we have given you, having regard to your own objectives, financial situation and needs before acting on it. Where the information relates to a particular financial product, you should obtain and consider the relevant product disclosure statement before making any decision to purchase that financial product.

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21

EQUINENEWS

HEATH RYAN SECURES TOP POSITION ON LEADERBOARD

Three-time Equestrian Grand Final Champions Heath Ryan and Regardez Moi are set for a fourth Grand Final victory after a 73.775% result at this year’s Sydney CDI. The score clinched top position on the leader board at the end of the five qualifying rounds. Ryan and Regardez Moi have won the Equestrian Grand Final each year since its inception in 2011. The 2014 showdown is looking to be just as exciting as Ryan’s number one ranking score of 73.775% is also the combination’s personal best. Ryan also has his up and coming Utopian Cardinal, sired by Regardez Moi qualified for the Grand Final having qualified in 10th place.

STATE OF ORIGIN ON HORSEBACK The fierce rivalry between NSW and QLD in the rugby league State of Origin is being brought to eventing.

The inaugural State of Origin was at the 2013 Qld International 3 Day Event and will again be contested at Warwick – 28th-31st August 2014.

The idea came after many talented Queensland riders migrated to NSW to advance their careers in Eventing.

Olympians, Stuart Tinney, Chris Burton and Rebel Morrow have been extremely successful as a result.

Many other talented riders have migrated from the Sunshine State in a mirror of what happened in rugby league where competitions between QLD and NSW

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were one sided because QLD players residing in NSW were selected to play for NSW. The format for the event is for teams of four to represent both states. The scoring is the same as the Olympic Team Event. Eligibility to represent either QLD or NSW is on the basis of where the rider first registered for eventing with the EFA. The competition will be run within the CCI2* at the Ql3DE. It is hoped that at this level there will be an opportunity for younger/developing riders to have the opportunity to represent their state, work in a team competition and provide national selectors a look at the talent available in Australia.

DRESSAGE: CLEAN SWEEP FOR AUSSIES AT DEAUVILLE FRANCE Kristy Oatley and her gelding Ronan 2 achieved a new personal best Freestyle score of 75.325 on their way to victory. The three-time Olympian shared the podium with fellow Australians Mary Hanna (Sancette) who finished second with a score of 74.775 and her cousin Lyndal Oatley (Sandro Boy) who finished third with a score of 73.475. Hanna and Sacette’s score in the Freestyle was the pair’s second personal best at the event. Earlier they scored a PB of 71.28 in the Grand Prix. The Australian domination continued on with Lyndal Oatley and Mary Hanna scoring a 1, 2 finish in the Grand Prix.

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NEW YORK CENTRAL PARK LIGHT GRAND PRIX CDI HORSE SHOW CONFIRMED A Dressage showcase and jumping horse show is to be staged in the iconic Central Park in New York after two years of planning.

Presented by Rolex the show will be the first event in the modern history of the park that was opened in 1857 and covers 843 acres in the heart of New York City. The centerpiece of the event will be the $200,000 Rolex Central Park Grand Prix, which will be televised live on Thursday, August 21.

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Matthias Alexander-Rath & Totilas

!

S A L TOTI

’ E H C A B GERMANS SCORE EMPHATIC VICTORY IN FEI NATIONS CUP DRESSAGE AT AACHEN The German’s dominated the fifth leg of the FEI Nations Cup Dressage 2014 at Aachen. The side included Kristina Sprehe (Desperados FRH), Isabell Werth (Bella Rose 2) and Helen Langehanenberg (Damon Hill NRW) but Matthias Rath stole the show producing the top mark of the competition (82.300) with stallion Totilas. The performance rocketed the pair up the world rankings to 25th. Langehanenberg finished second and Werth in fourth to complete the German dominance.

RESULTS: 1. Germany 243.100: Desperados FRH (Kristina Sprehe) 73.960, Bella Rose 2 (Isabell Werth) 79.580, Totilas (Matthias Alexander Rath) 82.300, Damon Hill NRW (Helen Langehanenberg) 81.220.

4. Great Britain 218.440: Pasoa (Nikki Crisp) 66.980, Fideramber (Daniel Watson) 67.520, Half Moon Delphi (Michael Eilberg) 74.020, Valegro (Charlotte Dujardin) 76.900.

2. Netherlands 223.380: Miciano (Marlies van Baalen) 69.740, Thriller (Katja Gevers) 69.320, Glock’s Flirt (Hans Peter Minderhoud) 72.660, Jerich Parzival NOP (Adelinde Cornelissen) 80.980.

5. Sweden 217.440: Darcia VH (Jeanna Hogberg) 68.740, Santana (Minna Telde) 69.580, Toy Story (Patrik Kittel) 70.940, Don Auriello (Tinne Vilhelmson Silfven) 76.92.

3. Spain 220.600: Norte Lovera (Jose Antonie Garcia Mena) 72.700, Painted Black (Morgan Barbancon) 73.260, Grandioso (Jose Daniel Martin Dockx) 74.640.

6. Denmark 216.820: My Lady (Mikala Muenter Gundersen0 69.140, Mariett (Lars Petersen) 69.720, Fitou L (Lone Bang Larsen) 70.480, Donnperignon (Anna Kasprzak) 76.620.

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7. USA 213.740: Her Highness O (Caroline Roffman) 70.400, Wizard (Adrienne Lyle) 70.340, Calecto V (Tina Konyot) 67.560, Verdades (Laura Graves) 73.000.

8. Belgium 206.920: Le Beau (Philippe Jorissen) 67.980, Avec Plaisir (Laurence Vanommeslaghe) 67.340, Lucky Dance (Julie de Deken) 68.300, Donnerfee (Claudia Fassaert) 70.640.

9. Austria 204.520: Auheim’s Picardo (Christian Schumach) 65.940, Lucy’s Day (Karin Kosak) 68.060, Fabriano (Renate Voglsang) 70.520.

!!

OUTANDABOUT

’S !

CK Photos: © Hippo Foto - Dirk Caremans/FEI

Helen Langehanenberg & Damon Hill The Stable Magazine www.thestablemagazine.com

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OUTANDABOUT

Photos: Trevor Holt/FEI

Sandra Auffarth riding Opgun Louvo

GERMAN DOMINATION CONTINUES IN EVENTING AT AACHEN Not only have the Germans dominated the Dressage on their home turf, they also proved invincible in Eventing. The German’s had two of their Olympic gold medal horses back to their best to spearhead a third successive team victory at their home event.

As Sandra Auffarth and her flying chestnut Opgun Louvo galloped back into the iconic main arena at the end of the Cross Country course, the crowd burst into cheers, knowing that she had clinched victory for Germany with her foot-perfect round eight seconds inside the optimum time of seven minutes.

Auffarth, who also took the individual honours, and her team mate Michael Jung on La Biosthetique Sam FBW, third, were two out of only three riders to achieve the optimum Cross Country time on the hot, sunny day. Their two horses, the individual gold and silver medallists at the London 2012 Olympic Games, missed the FEI European Championships last year but, perhaps ominously for other nations, they look certainties for next month’s Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™ 2014 in Normandy (FRA).

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Dirk Schrade provided excellent back-up in 10th place on the reliable Hop and Skip, and Peter Thomsen was also clear across country on Horseware’s Barney to take Germany up to third in the FEI Nations Cup™ Eventing 2014 standings at this halfway stage of the season, which is generating fierce competition between the 12 nations now competing in the series.

“It was really good fun and the atmosphere was great,” said Auffarth, who was second in 2013 on Opgun Louvo.

“The conditions were much better than last year, when it was very wet, and luckily there was a tailwind which was refreshing.

“I forgot to set my watch when I set off, so I didn’t know how well I was doing for time until I entered the stadium.

Then I could relax and really enjoy it. I had a super ride.

My horse is very smart and helps you out. I trust him completely.”

German National Coach Hans Melzer said the result was “a great boost and motivation” before the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™ 2014. “The conditions today were ideal and the day was a great advertisement for the sport,” he said.

OUTANDABOUT

RESULTS:

Michael Jung & La Biosthetique Sam

1 Germany, 129.0 penalties Sandra Auffarth/Opgun Louvo, 33.8; Michael Jung/ La Biosthetique Sam FBW 41.2; Dirk Schrade/Hop and Skip, 54.0; (Peter Thomsen/Horseware’s Barney, 57.6)

5 Ireland, 209.6 Camilla Speirs/Portersize Just A Jiff, 61.8; Fraser Duffy/ Primus 209, 70.8; Joseph Murphy/Electric Cruise, 77.0; (Jayne Doherty/Ravenstar, EL Cross Country)

2 Great Britain, 152.4 Izzy Taylor/Orlando, 43.8; William Fox-Pitt/Chilli Morning, 52.4; Piggy French/Jakarta, 56.2; (Zara Phillips/ High Kingdom, 70.8)

6 Sweden, 213.4 Johan Lundin/Johnny Cash, 66.6; Niklas Lindbäck/ Mister Pooh, 68.4; Malin Petersen/Sofarsogood, 78.4; (Ludwig Svennerstal/Alexander, WD before Dressage)

3 France, 164.6 Maxime Livio/Qalao des Mers, 50.0; Astier Nicolas/ Piaf de b’Neville, 52.4; Thomas Carlile/Quiro Hoy, 62.2; (Pascal Leroy/Minos de Petra, 65.4)

7 Australia, 215.4 Paul Tapner/Kilronan, 54.0; Andrew Hoy/Rutherglen, 57.6; Kevin McNab/Clifton Pinot, 103.8; (Christopher Burton/Graf Liberty, WD before Cross Country)

4 New Zealand, 169.2 Andrew Nicholson/Nereo, 48.4; Jonelle Price/Faerie Dianimo, 58.0; Tim Price/Ringwood Sky Boy, 62.8; (Lucy Jackson/Willy Do, EL Cross Country)

8 Netherlands, 245.4 Elaine Pen/Undercover, 113.6; Tim Lips/Concrex Oncarlos, 131.8 (Andrew Heffernan/Millthyme Corolla, EL Cross Country; Merel Blom/Rumour Has It, WD before Cross Country)

Full results available at www.chioaachen.de

The Stable Magazine www.thestablemagazine.com 29

GOFORIT!

Have you ever wondered how those riders with their immaculately polished tack seem to be on top of their game, well organised, so dedicated, and always placed somwehere close to the top of the field in each and somewhere every event? The short answer - dedication, motivation and inspiration. You can have it too! And it’s not beyond your reach, but it does take a few adjustments, and the knowledge that nothing can be achieved without putting in the hard work. So, as always, our perfectly timed tips (come on guys, Winter is almost over!) are designed to get you back in the saddle and having some run, and perhaps with a goal or two on the horizon to achieve...

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GOFORIT!

EQUINENEW

Riding Inspiration

The Stable Magazine www.thestablemagazine.com

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GOFORIT!

Riding Inspiration GETTING INSPIRED!

) Join an ARC or start taking lessons

If you can learn and ride in a happy and relaxed atmosphere, you’ll get a lot out of your lessons. The structure can also be a push in the right direction - every week or every month you need to be out there in the saddle, with you and your horse looking your best. Do it! Those yukky winter coats are about to come out anyway - you might as well complete the new look with a bit of lovely topline before you’re actually seen out and about!

) Put riding back on the priority list Just picture helmets on these guys, ok? :)

) Drag a friend into your plan -

you’ll both reap the benefits!

Things are always easier with a buddy, and a buddy can also help to inspire and motivate you, particularly if you’re like-minded with a common goal. Make time to ride together, keep each other going and assist each other in improving. You can do it!

) Get out there, even if not in the saddle!

Fence sit at a clinic if you don’t think you and your horse are up to attending. You’d be surprised how much you can learn watching others ride - particularly if the lesson is with a rider you admire and who inspires you!

) Winter swot session...!

Grab a bunch of instructional DVDs - great for when the weather is less than inspiring!

) Don’t make excuses - find solutions!

Do what you have to to get your bum in the saddle. Be it hiring an indoor arena for a day if you can’t ride at home. Or hire a babysitter or offer to watch kids on a rotational basis for one of your horsey friends with children so you can both set aside time to ride.

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If time is an issue, allocate a 20 minute ride a day. Do this for a week. As your motivation increases, you’ll find the time if riding is a priority.

) Don’t spread yourself too thin...

... Or attempt to take on too many things at once. Train yourself to finish one thing before you start the next, and focus all of your energy in that direction. The aim is to accomplish one task at a time and do it well rather than shifting your focus, completing tasks simultaneously but to a lesser standard.

) Set aside time to focus on your goal!

Be it in the evenings after work when it’s too dark to ride - it doesn’t matter. Plan out how you’re going to achieve your goal by making a step by step plan or a schedule to stick to.

) Read, learn, grow!

Spend your time out of the saddle getting inspired! Read some horsey fiction, watch DVDs on your favourite riders or from your favourite events - read The Stable. (Don’t forget all of our back issues that are available FREE online at http://www.thestablemagazine.com/issues.html !)

) Get your bum in that saddle!

Set a long term goal, and shorter term goals. They can be as simple as a controlled canter in the big paddock, or riding to the end of the laneway and back, or goals to improve your personal best. Have achievable short term goals - and the long term achievement you’d like to work towards. And no, heading to the 2018 WEG is NOT impossible!

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GOFORIT!

In the optimised version of The Stable, this video plays on screen.

To view this clip, visit: http://youtu.be/6EfwkGNfdJE

In the optimised version of The Stable, this video plays on screen.

To view this clip, visit: http://youtu.be/AEBjnRREowg

Riding Inspiration ) Remember...

you compete against yourself!

Better you and your horses performance by attempting to improve on your personal best efforts. Don’t draw comparisons between yourself and other riders, or you and your horse and the pair that beat you at your last outing. Despite the common threads we have as riders, everyone’s circumstances are different. Horses and riders all have different strengths and weaknesses, and different areas to improve upon. Worry about you and your horse - your achievements, your goals, your strengths - and focus on improving your areas of weakness.

) Don’t take it to heart!

Much of what we love about horses the fact that they are independently thinking and very large animals that while domesticated, often have their own ideas - can also lead to challenges. Every rider has bad days. Every horse has bad days.

Don’t let one bad performance, one bad ride, one bad day or even one bad week throw your focus.

) Don’t let negativity creep in!

In the optimised version of The Stable, this video plays on screen.

To view this clip, visit: http://youtu.be/zBcaa5vcCSk

...Either from external or internal sources!

Sometimes we can be our own worst enemies. Other times, it seems that everyone’s out to take you down a peg.

Learn to accept constructive criticism and make use of it. Ignore negative comments and don’t allow yourself to dwell on the opinions of others.

) Seek professional help!

No.. not from a psychologist... we mean that you should find an instructor you have faith in, work with him or her to action a plan to achieve your goals.

Looking for an instructor? Look no further! Visit our Instructor’s Feature at www.thestablemagazine.com/instructors2014

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The Stable Magazine www.thestablemagazine.com 35

GOFORIT!

In the optimised version of The Stable, this video plays on screen.

To view this clip, visit: http://youtu.be/6EfwkGNfdJE http://youtu.be/ABKa1FI_EP4

Riding Inspiration ) Off the horse fitness

If you’d like to improve your off the horse fitness, activities that tie in well with riding include swimming, cycling and Pilates.

If you’re serious, look into a personal trainer, regular lessons or classes with a qualified Pilates instructor. Who knows?

You might find a burning passion for another sport!

) Push yourself - just not too hard!

In the optimised version of The Stable, this video plays on screen.

To view this clip, visit: http://youtu.be/TmsU7TmSv0k http://youtu.be/AEBjnRREowg

Enter a competition. Do it. Now. Find something that’s a good introduction or even something like an open show - put a little bit of pressure on yourself, but don’t choose anything that’s too daunting or too far above you. It’ll give you a goal to work towards. If you can’t bring yourself to enter something just yet, why not attend an open show or head to an event that includes Freshman’s jumping? Ride your horse around the grounds, get used to the atmosphere - and there’s still no pressure to compete. It’s all good experience!

) Allow yourself a slip up once in a while..

In the optimised version of The Stable, this video plays on screen.

To view this clip, visit: http://youtu.be/zBcaa5vcCSk http://youtu.be/cxpIIu_jZjU

No one can be perfect 100% of the time.

If you slip up and get off track, don’t beat yourself up over it. Just start fresh the next morning. Allow yourself rest days, or take a break to reward yourself (and your horse!) for a job well done. It’s always harder to start something, but as you find yourself conquering your goals, the motivation will kick in and you’ll be hungry to better your achievement.

) Don’t give up!

Believe in yourself. Make changes for the better, make mistakes and learn from them, but most of all, set your eyes on the prize, and don’t let anything get in your way of achieving your goals!

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FEATURE

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The Stable Magazine www.thestablemagazine.com 39

Weird Hor WHATINTHEWEIRD?

We live in an age where more legislation is being passed than at any time befor affect our everyday lives, and one hopes that, for the most part, the greater g us by law will have an overwhelmingly positive outcome that makes society in changes, and sometimes new laws need to be made to curb anti-social or dange worse still, injury or death.

That being said, it would be fair to assume that laws aren’t just enacted because said politicians and bureaucrats just wake up one day, decide they’re bored, and then set about having some fun. So, with this in mind, let’s have a look at some laws that have been made in the past.

I’m assured they are absolutely true.

“A person is not permitted to eat an ice cream cone while on horseback in a public place.”

“Male riders are prohibited from eating onions between the hours of 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. while out riding.”

“Any person who disturbs or otherwise antagonises a horse by taking a picture on the Sabbath will be subject to a fine of at least $1.50 or jailed for as much as three full days and nights.”

It seems taking a photograph disturbs a horse on a Sunday, but what happens on the other six days of the week – it doesn’t bother him? If eating onions while riding a horse is so bad why is it then okay for men to eat onions on horseback at 7.15 pm? Could eating an ice cream while riding wreak so much 40

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havoc that the very fabric of society is threatened?

Just how big a problem could these activities have been to warrant the passing of these laws?

I was fascinated by the fact that there were a numbers of laws that stopped men from gaining the attention of female riders -

“It is illegal to tickle a woman under her chin with a feather in order to get her attention while she is horse riding.”

“No male person shall make remarks to or concerning, or cough, or whistle at, or do any other act to attract the attention of any woman riding a horse.”

“It is unlawful for any male rider, within the limits of this community, to wink at any female rider with whom he is acquainted.”

rse Laws

WHATINTHEWEIRD? EQUINENEW

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WHATINTHEWEIRD?

Forgive me for perhaps jumping to the wrong conclusion, but were they trying to say that a woman riding a horse can’t afford to be distracted in any way - that she needs to concentrate fully on what she’s doing - or dire consequences may result? Perhaps not? Perhaps it was a case of unruly male behaviour that these legislators were attempting to keep under control. You know what guys can be like – always joking around, having fun hanging out together – with feathers at the ready in their back pockets just waiting for the next horsewoman to come along....

There were plenty of laws that dictated how women should, or shouldn’t, be attired when riding. Thank goodness times have changed.

“No female shall ride a horse while attired in a bathing suit within the boundaries of Riverton, unless she be escorted by at least two officers of the law or unless she be armed with a club.” And then this was later added to with, “The provisions of this statue shall not apply to females weighing less than ninety pounds nor exceeding two hundred pounds.”

“A married woman may not ride a horse down a street while wearing body hugging clothing.”

“It is unlawful for a woman over 235 pounds and attired in shorts to be seen on a horse in any public place. “ “It is illegal for a woman to horse ride in public in wearing a kimono.”

“Every woman must be found to be wearing a corset when riding a horse in public.”

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Weird Horse Laws What were these people thinking? And we think we’re over-governed now!!

Two other really strange laws I came across had me completely baffled.

I can’t even begin to imagine WHY politicians would think they needed to have control over horse’s looks, but in one state in the United States you can be arrested for riding an ugly horse. Apart from all the other questions this raises, I want to know who decides that your horse is ugly. Surely this is too subjective to reach a definitive answer.

Again in the US, there is a law in place that says it is illegal for a horse to eat a fire hydrant. Who knows how or why this legislation came into being, but apparently it’s there on some state’s statute books. Remember that I was going with the premise that laws are made to control unruly behaviour? How rife could this problem be in this state?!! Too many questions, and I’m almost afraid of what the answers to these questions might be.

I may be over thinking this, but it says ‘eat’ - not chew, or bite, or lick. Why would a horse ‘eat’ a fire hydrant? No, the real question is why horses - plural - eat fire hydrants? And when they did?

Lastly, in the attempt to control the uncontrollable, are these gems –

“Horses are not allowed to neigh after 10 p.m.”

“It is illegal to let a horse fall asleep at an airport.”

“It is against the law in California for horses to mate in public within five hundred yards of any church, school or tavern.”

Good luck with enforcing these!

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BREEDING

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BREEDING

EQUINENEW

BREEDING: Giving Your Mare The Best Chance KENTUCKY EQUINE RESEARCH Not every mare that’s bred is able to become pregnant in a particular breeding season.

While broodmare managers on large commercial horse farms are able to accept this reality, owners with only one or two mares can easily end up with a zero percent success rate for the season. What factors can derail a breeding, and how can the mares be managed for a more positive result in the future?

Some broodmare managers like to keep their mares just slightly over moderate condition, while others prefer to have the mares come into the breeding season just below moderate condition. Getting mares ready to be bred is not an overnight chore. An owner who is considering breeding a mare needs to begin several months ahead of the breeding season in order to have the mare in the best condition to become pregnant. The first step is to have a veterinarian examine the mare for breeding soundness.

This should be done in plenty of time to treat or correct any problems that may be found.

The veterinarian will evaluate the mare’s conformation and internal reproductive organs to check for infection or damage from previous pregnancies. Using the mare’s breeding history, he can suggest management steps to avoid problems. Maybe the mare needs to be put under lights, or bred by live cover rather than artificial insemination, or examined for conformation defects such as a tipped vulva that can increase the risk of uterine infection. The veterinarian may also find a condition that would make it unwise to try to breed the mare, saving the

owner time and expense and allowing another mare to be chosen for breeding.

Mares selected for breeding need to be in excellent physical health and should be on a regular course of hoof care, immunisations, parasite control, and dental care.

This schedule of routine health care needs to be in place in the months leading up to the breeding season. A mare that has been neglected, is seriously underweight, or is in the process of recovering from a major illness or injury is less likely to get in foal and deliver a healthy baby eleven months later. Prospective broodmares should also be sound enough to carry the extra weight of a foal without experiencing significant discomfort.

Nutrition of the prospective broodmare is important for a successful breeding. Mares that are either too thin or too fat may be difficult to get in foal and stay in good condition through the pregnancy. For optimal breeding efficiency, mares should have a body condition score of at least 5 to 6. According to Henneke’s nine-point body condition scale in which 1 is emaciated and 9 is obese, a 5 represents moderate body condition. The back is level with no crease or ridge, ribs cannot be seen but can be felt, tailhead is surrounded by a layer of fat, withers are well-rounded, and neck blends smoothly into the shoulder.

Research has shown that barren mares kept at a body condition score of 5 begin ovulating sooner than mares with body condition scores less than 5. These mares also require fewer estrus cycles to achieve pregnancy and generally have higher conception rates. Mares that enter

The Stable Magazine www.thestablemagazine.com 45

BREEDING

Giving Your Mare The Best Chance ...continued...

the breeding season in very thin condition are less reproductively efficient than those in moderate body condition.

Some broodmare managers like to keep their mares just slightly over moderate condition, while others prefer to have the mares come into the breeding season just below moderate condition. These mares are then fed enough hay and grain to be gradually gaining a bit of weight for a while before they are actually bred, a strategy that tells the mare’s body that she is ingesting enough nutrients and energy to support a pregnancy. Both plans work for many mares if sufficient time is allowed for under-conditioned horses to reach moderate body condition.

In general, access to top-quality forage will help thin mares gain weight. If forage alone does not provide enough calories for weight gain, a well-formulated concentrate should be offered, following the manufacturer’s instruction printed on the feed bag or tag. First-time breeders might want to consult with an equine nutritionist as to the best overall plan, especially if the mare has a particular condition that requires special feed ingredients or schedules.

Choosing the stallion is an important step toward a successful breeding. Live cover usually has a good rate of settling mares in foal, but this option may involve the stress of transporting the mare for a long distance. If artificial insemination (AI) seems to be the best alternative, the mare’s owner needs to ask about conception rates from chilled or frozen/ thawed semen, as some stallions have far more success than others. It’s also important to have the help of a veterinarian who is experienced in AI procedures.

The important thing about all the steps in readying a mare for the breeding season is to start early enough that any defects and problems can be discovered and resolved well before the proposed breeding date. Having a reasonable timetable is essential for all prospective broodmares, but is especially vital if the mare has a history of difficulty in becoming pregnant or sustaining a pregnancy to term.

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Mare Breeding Soundness Examination:

GATHERING A HISTORY Selecting a mare for breeding can be a daunting process.

Once the mare has passed muster in the areas of conformation, soundness, athleticism, and disposition, an adequate history must be taken down.

General health. A complete history of vaccination and deworming protocols should be ascertained. The date of the mare’s last dental examination should be given with any peculiarities noted. Any history of systemic disease should also be taken into consideration.

Performance. The mare’s performance record should be obtained, making special note of level of competition, last date of competition, and length of competitiveness. For example, is the potential broodmare a racehorse that ran one year before being sidelined by injury, or is she an older show horse that has been competitive for multiple seasons?

Was she placed on any medications to keep estrus at bay during competition?

Breeding and foaling. Pertinent questions might include how many cycles for each pregnancy; natural or artificial insemination; last breeding date; how many live births; how many abortions, if any; description of foaling complications, if experienced?

Reproductive drug use. A complete roster of medications used during and after breeding season should be obtained.

These might include drugs to manipulate the estrous cycle, induce ovulation, or maintain pregnancy.

Once an adequate history has been acquired, a veterinarian can be called to complete a physical examination.

BREEDING

EQUINENEW

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from Kentucky Equine Research KERx EO·l3 is a rich source of the long chain omega-3 fatty acids DHA and EPA in a palatable liquid form.

Research conducted in both humans and animals has found the omega-3 fatty acids DHA and EPA, contained in EOl·3, have been shown to be essential in a broad range of physiological functions including improved fertility and boosted passive transfer of colostral antibodies.

www.ker.com SLOW FEED HAYNETS KEEP YOUR MARES HAPPY THIS BREEDING SEASON! Let’s face it - mares need good nutrition to sustain a growing Is your mare too overweight going into her last foal, and we know that horses are designed to graze for more few 16 months overweight mare is at than hours aof daypregnancy?

- but just what An do you do if your broodmares a much higher of having are looking a littlerisk on the chubby foaling side, andproblems you knowdue that to it’s not justunfit the baby weight?

You cannot deny access being for the birthing process andyour alsohorse at higher to grazing - but you can slow and a Gutzbusta Slow risk of mal-presentation of her the down foal. -So what do you do??

Feed haynet is the perfect solution!

She HAS to have access to feed/forage all the time for

A Gutzbusta Feedand Haynet yournot mare keep the health ofSlow herself her will foal,allow so why trytousing grazing on the quality hay you provide her - but instead of a GutzBusta Slow Feed Hay Net to enable her to have demolishing it all in one go, she can graze contentedly over a a constant but controlled hay/roughage.

This few hours, simulating naturalsupply grazingofbehaviour.

A Gutzbusta way if she locked up offofgrass some of thefor day, she haynet alsoisoffers a range otherfor health benefits horses who suffer problems such as choke, laminitis, stable vices still has access to feed, but cannot ‘gutz’ and it down.

We which areseen often what brought on by boredom. have all happens when a horse is thrown a

Save time Gutzbusta, are easyup to biscuit of and haymoney out onwith thea ground, it too gets- they vacuumed fill, available in a range of sizes to fit biscuits to round bales, and in half an hour and the horse is left standing there with will eliminate hay wastage by up to 40%. nothing to eat.

Order your Gutzbusta Slow Feed Haynet online now!

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UP TO 40% LESS HAY WASTAGE

The Stable Magazine www.thestablemagazine.com

47

BREEDING

FEED&BREED EQUINENEWS

Feed And Breed has been designed for feeding breeding mares and young growing horses.

FEATURE

The comprehensive vitamin, mineral and protein inclusion help to provide the essential nutrients for the growing foetus in pregnant mares and for milk production in lactating mares. Full fat soyabean meal and canola meal provide high quality digestible protein and have a good balance of essential amino acids for muscle and bone growth, which makes Feed and Breed ideal for weanlings and yearlings and for spelling horses that need to put on condition and re-build muscle. The quality of the protein is important because it needs to be digested in the small intestine where it is cleaved into amino acids. If it escapes into the large intestine, it is broken down to ammonia and lost to the horse. If essential amino acids are not provided, young horses lay down more ‘fat’ and less muscle, which is not desirable.

Minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, copper and iron are also important for muscle and bone growth and zinc for hoof growth. Magnesium and calcium also act as buffers, preventing the gut becoming too acidic. Vitamin A is important for growth, reproduction and lactation. Vitamin D promotes and maintains proper bone formation and integrity, in conjunction with calcium and phosphorus. Feed and Breed has been balanced to meet all these requirements.

Feed and Breed contains:

• Yea–Sacc®, a live yeast which improves fibre digestion, slows down the fermentation of starch and improves calcium and phosphorus uptake for bone development • Chromium yeast, which helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels and decreases lactic acid production • Vitamin E, which is an antioxidant and is important for the function of the immune and reproductive functions.

• Copper, which plays an important role in the formation and maturation of connective tissue (collagen and elastic) and cartilage.

• Magnesium, which is involved in the hardening process of bone and is required for muscle and nerve function.

• Full fat soya which contains essential fats for a shiny coat.

Feed and Breed must be fed with roughage such as hay, chaff and/or pasture and should be split between at least two feeds daily.

Please visit www.riverina.com for more information.

Feed and Breed can be supplied in 20kg bags, 1 ton bulk bags or bulk.

Yea–Sacc® is a registered trademark of Altech Biotechnology Pty Ltd

PROTEQ EQUINE BEDDING Foaling season is fast approaching. Choose a clean, healthy, cost effective and environmentally friendly bedding for your mare and foal this season.

Proteq Equine Bedding is a wood pellet product that is made from pure pine softwood and is a superior alternative to traditional horse bedding such as sawdust, sand, rice hull and straw.

Proteq has a moisture content of below 8% which allows urine to be quickly and efficiently absorbed in clumps for easy removal, meaning ease of cleaning, less bedding waste and a smaller manure

pile. And because Proteq has a fluidity similar to sand, the clean bedding easily falls through your pitchfork only leaving behind used bedding and manure.

Proteq is heat treated for hygiene with no chemical additives meaning it is clean, safe bedding for your horse and breaks down quickly in your garden.

Proteq is 100% Australian made and owned.

Proteq meets all key bedding qualities: ) Safe for Horses ) Readily available supply ) Superior absorbency ) Biodegradable and easily compostable ) Easy to store ) Dust screened ) Easy to use/time saving to clean ) Cost effective ) Non-palatable to Horses ) Environmentally Friendly

Buy four bags or more and BULK BUY & $AVE! Available from www.horses-store.com

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PACKAGE 4 $159 • List your Stallion for 12 months and feature him for 1 month PACKAGE 5 $129 • List your Stallion for 12 months and feature him for 14 days PACKAGE 6 $99 • List your Stallion for 12 months

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The Stable Magazine www.thestablemagazine.com 49

BREEDING

HORSE BREEDING

AUSTRALIAN DVD TITLES - BY BOB KERRIGAN A great four part Australian DVD series providing a detailed account of breeding horses.

Part 1: Mating Preparation: Part One of this four part series covers some 22 different teasing situations on both wet and dry mares. Various methods of yard and rail teasing are shown as well as shy or difficult teasers.

Part 2: Mating Management: Volume 2 of this comprehensive 4 part series shows 8 different matings including a paddock mating and discusses the preperation of the mare and stallion prior to mating and the different management techniques and procedures which need to be considered during mating.

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Or $59.95 each

Part 3: Foaling Management: The third volume of this brilliant four part series shows 3 different foalings as well as the first second and third stage labour sequences and provides examples of the many aspects of foaling.

Part 4: Breeding Problems: The final part of this four part series contains examples of meconium, retained afterbirth, bad mothering post foaling, toxaemia, plasma transfusions, colostrum testing and other problems which can occur during and shortly after foaling.

Your one stop shop for horse supplies and riding equipment!

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Equinade Linseed Oil is a rich source of Omega 3 which aids in balancing hormones aiding ovulation, necessary for fertility in stallions and aids in milk production. Increased levels of Omega 3 in mares promotes healthy strong development that passes onto their foal.

The possible benefits of using Linseed Oil include: * Improves coat shine and condition * Improves skin condition including dryness, itchyness and dermatitis * Increases energy levels * Can help prevent sand colic * A purgative in large doses (under veterinary control) * Can act as a mild and gentle laxative * Aids respiratory conditions and urinary infections * Assists inflammatory conditions Available in 500ml, 1lt, 2.5lt, 5lt and 20lt bottles from your local equestrian, pet or produce store.

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Sharing in the caring ofer horses for ov 30 years

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STALLIONZONE The Stable Magazine www.thestablemagazine.com

51

PROJECTHOPE EQUINENEWS Project Hope Horse Welfare:

STATISTICS FOR 2013 Thirty-six horses were surrendered to Project Hope. After rehabilitation, 32 were leased to long term homes.

Project Hope can only do this work because ordinary members train and make their time available to help in many different ways – on stalls telling our story, doing short term care, looking after old horses longer term, helping with publicity or admin, or visiting reports of horses in need.

A Project Hope Horse Welfare Victoria

Success Story BAILEY Terrified of Humans!

Last year one hundred and sixteen members volunteered, including country members in their area.

Reports of potential neglect or abuse: For each of 74 reports on neglected horses, a trained PH member went out to talk to the owner.

Floating Horses: Members did an estimated 60 trips floating horses from A to B. Short-term Care: 36 members, 14 for the first time, cared for a horse shortterm from a few weeks to more than 6 months.

Home Check: 32 potential long-term homes were visited.

Events: Over 20 members helped at PHHWV stalls at Gisborne, Werribee, Mornington, Pakenham, and Wonga Park.

Administration: 8 members managed large tasks for PHHWV.

The story of Bailey (right) is another PHHWV success story - achieved by the efforts of volunteers who care, and work services offered by many equine based businesses. If you think you can help, why not become a member? Membership is $45.00, the form is on www.phhwv.org.au.

Help us to help more horses find life again and loving homes.

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A pony bought to eat grass on a rural block was impossible to catch. He had been left alone and was then chased by a 4WD! PHHW had surrender papers signed… but the challenge was to catch him! Yards did not work.

He was unhandled and traumatised, and slipped the net. He had begun to founder.

Rep Bec came with 2 friends. The pony just took off. After 2 months, a further rep was called in. Quite local, Karen and her husband visited 3 times a week. The pony took feed from them. Time by time they moved closer, always ending contact before the pony became anxious. After 4 weeks of visits, he was being fed in a small yard with the gate open. Then the gate was closed.

It was Christmas. Who had a secure pony paddock & time for rehab? He would stress if left where he was. Luckily a home was found an hour away.

Karen & friends loaded and managed to get a halter on him! At his shortterm home, Cara soon had him working, responding to her & Kerryn. He had had some prior handling and she introduced him to riding. By four weeks Cara could ride him in the arena and lead him on walks around the suburb.

Karen and her husband, and then Cara, with help from Bec and Kerryn, have given Bailey his new future..a riding pony at a children’s riding centre!

He now has a new girl friend, Karen’s Thoroughbred mare, that stands at 15.3hh. She used to be petrified of Shetlands and now she loves him to bits!

The Stable Magazine www.thestablemagazine.com

PROJECTHOPE Torry a few months after rescue

Torry before and after Torry when rescued

Short Term carer

Administration

Long Term carer

Training reps to visit and assess reports of horse neglect

Moving Horses

g Website updating / Newsletter compilin Working at an Event

PHHWV is a non-profit organisation committed to providing pe forfor iding hohope ov pr to d itte mm co on ati nis ga fit or education, rehabilitation and advocacy. a non-pro Victorian through PHHWV isequines on and advocacy. ati es through education, rehabilit Victorian equin Throughout Victoria, whenever possible PHHWV aims to:

ssible Throughout Victoria, whenever po

PHHWV aims to:

q Assist owners through education and advice to rehabilitate their own horses. te their own horses. litasick, abi reh to ice adv and ion cat q Rescue and rehabilitate any horse found abandoned, injured or mistreated. · Assist owners through edu red or mistreated. oned, sick,toinju nd aba nd fou rse ho q Provide emergency care and treatment horses. any te lita · Rescue and rehabi s. of neglected horses. horse tothe treatmenton e and q Educate community plight ency carthe · Provide emerg horses. legislation and policy. neglected y on the plight Contribute tomu thenitdevelopment of of improved government te the com · Edquca ent legislation and policy. nm gover roved imp of ent pm elo Can you help in anyway, volunteering to help out with any of the above jobs? dev the to te · Contribu Please visit our website www.phhwv.org.au and become a member today. s. above job of the any h wit t ou p hel to g rin tee un vol y, wa Donations can be made to Project Hope Horse Welfare Victoria, GPO Box 1991 Melbourne, 3001. any in p hel Can you Become a member today. u g.a .or wv hh w.p ww te bsi r we Any you may think may be in need of help, due to neglect or abandonment visit ou asehorses Ple please phone 1300 881 606 ia, GPO box 1991 ject Hope Horse Welfare Victor Pro to de Donations can be ma GPOMeBox 1991, 3001 | 1300 881 606 | info@phhwv.org.au 1. e, 300Melbourne lbourn ndonment d of help, due to neglect or aba nee in be y ma nk thi y ma you s Any horse Reg No: A0027152D ABN: 96 820 500 367 please Phone 1300 881 606

www.phhwv.org.au

Become a Project Hope Horse Welfare Member today!

Visit http://www.phhwv.org.au/docs/membership.pdf

The Stable Magazine www.thestablemagazine.com 53

HORSECARE

Special thanks to Kathryn Kelly and Alisha Short for their assistance with this article

Rug SWAPS

WHICH RUG FOR WHEN?

With warmer weather just around the corner it can be difficult to choose appropriate rugs for your horses - when the nights are cold and the days are warming up - finding the right balance between under-rugging and over-rugging can be a challenge and is often a case of trial and error.

The biggest danger in this instance is horses overheating - too many rugs or the wrong kind of rugs left on during a warm spring day can make your horse very uncomfortable, not to mention the risk of dehydration and excessive loss of fluid through sweat.

If you’re lucky enough to live on a property with your horses, swapping rugs to fit the weather conditions is simple - but for those of us who balance work, home and horse lives, often a quick change of conditions can mean that our horses are often unwittingly left in less than ideal attire.

Sometimes, unfortunately, this cannot be helped - the weather can be unpredictable, and although we do our best, it can be impossible to provide the right rug 100% of the time.

In this article we take a look at the different kinds of rugs that you may choose to use, the weather conditions they are best suited to, and some of the safety aspects and benefits to keep in mind when choosing your horse’s spring wardrobe.

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Not this rug! When the weather is a little on the chilly side and it looks as though it might rain, don’t choose a rug that is not waterproof. Horses and wet rugs don’t mix!

RUG SHOWCASE EUREKA CANVAS WINTER RANGE EUREKA CANVAS WINTER RUG Eureka Winter Ripstop 24oz Canvas Rug. Waterproof canvas that is bush blanket lined with quality 3 way leather fittings, fleece wither protector, rope reinforced neck, long shoulder gussets, padded taffeta chest inserts. rump darts for a moulded fit, single surcingle, removable leg straps, & D’s for neck rug attachment.

Sizes: 4’3 to 6’9

Rug: $59.95 Combo: $79.95

Available from National Equestrian Wholesalers - www.natequest.com.au

HORZE FLEECE SHOW RUG Classy fleece rug edged with an elegant golden cord and matching golden Z embroidery on the front side. Features one front buckle and a tail strap. Perfect as an underrug for extra warmth, for wearing at shows in between classes, or for travelling!

Colour: Blue (as pictured).

Sizes: 125cm - 155cm $59.95 Available from One Stop Horse Shop - www.onestophorse.com.au

EQUINADE RUG SEAL Are your cotton or canvas rugs looking a bit tired? Breathe new life into them with Equinade Rug Seal! Equinade Rug Seal is a re-proofing formula to help waterproof cotton canvas. It can be applied easily with a brush or by spraying and has no fumes. To begin, thoroughly wash the rug to remove all dirt and allow to dry. Apply Equinade Rug Seal to the outside surface, paying attention to seams and stitched areas. Apply two coats, allowing time to dry between each application. The underside of the canvas can also be treated. Rug Seal re-proofs and will also resist dry rot and mildew. Suitable for all cotton canvas products. One litre covers approximately six square metres. Available in 1 litre 2.5 litre and 20 litre bottles.

Available online at www.equinade.com or from your local equestrian or produce store!

POLY/COTTON RUG Our poly cotton blend summer rug.

The poly blend offers higher durability than the 100% cotton while still being light enough for summer. The rug has double front closures, crossover surcingles and leg straps.

Sizes: 4’3 - 6’6

$45.00

Available from Bastille Horsewear - www.bastillehorsewear.com The Stable Magazine www.thestablemagazine.com

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HORSECARE

TYPES OF RUGS Cottons/Summer Rugs Cottons are most commonly used in the summer months.

They are breathable, and also are useful as an added underrug. On dark horses or horses with pink skin, they offer some protection from the harmful rays of the sun. Cottons are often used as the lightest alternative for those owners who prefer a clean horse to a dirty one.

Polar Fleece

A light weight and economical rug choice - great for a stable rug or to go under an outer waterproof rug in the cooler months. Similar in use to a woollen rug but often without the hefty price tag. Consequently, they are not as longwearing as woollen rugs, although are easy to maintain if well looked after.

Synthetic rugs are also available with or without fill - ‘polyfill’ - which is the inner puffy lining which will keep your horse warm. Available in up to 400g of fill, synthetic rugs options are available for both freezing conditions (heavier fills) and warmer days (no fill). A good standard fill is about 220g enough to provide extra warmth at night without the horse overheating during a warmer winter’s day. As the weather gets warmer, rugs should get lighter in terms of the fill.

Synthetic rugs are also available in a range of bright and vibrant colours - a change to the old standard blues and greens of old style canvas rugs!

Fly Sheet

Although your horse may or may not look like a sack of potatoes wearing a hessian/jute rug, they are useful for keeping the horse clean. They are breathable and often used by owners wishing to achieve that much sought after shiny coat.

Fly sheets or mesh rugs are perfect for hot summer days, especially in areas where fly irritation is prevalent. They are light and breathable and offer your horse some solace from the menacing bug invasion. This is particularly useful for horses suffering Queensland Itch and it is an effective barrier and preventative measure against horses literally tearing their hair out. Some fly sheets or mesh rugs are available with a belly cover - and others on the market include full neck and face coverage with a built in fly mask.

Canvas

Woollen Rugs

Jute

The tried and true old fashioned, sturdy alternative. Canvas rugs are durable, and often stand up to many season’s wear.

They are available both lined (with bush blanket, felt, or woollen lining) or unlined. While not 100% waterproof, they can be treated annually to resist excess moisture. When choosing a canvas rug, it is beneficial to choose the best you can afford. Canvas can also be quite a heavy rug alternative, so it is essential to ensure it is properly fitted to prevent rug rub. Custom made canvas rugs are also available to ensure a good fit for those hard to fit horses and ponies. Canvas rugs are also generally quite breathable, and an unlined canvas can be an ideal choice for those instances where you require protection from the elements without a heavy fill.

Canvas density is measured in ounces, so the heavier the weight, the stronger the integrity of the material.

Synthetic

Synthetic rugs are a relatively new sensation. While being lightweight and allowing for a great range of movement, they also are available in many styles, with different densities of fill. Synthetic rugs are one of the only completely waterproof options, and they don’t take up any moisture so remain lightweight even in heavy rainfall. Many grades of material are used in production of synthetic rugs - the grades of denier (fabric density and therefore ‘toughness’) vary from 600 denier to more than 1600. The higher the denier, the ‘tougher the fabric is, and the more resistant it is to rips and tears.

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Woollens, while slightly pricey are a wonderful longlasting rug perfect for use in the stable or as a thick and luxurious under rug. They are also handy to take with you to competitions.

Doona Rugs

Doona rugs are usually synthetic - the ones we refer to here and the non-waterproof alternatives that make ideal under rugs or stable rugs, where the rug is not the outer layer and not exposed to the elements. They provide additional warmth and are best suited to use when the nights are the coldest. Also available in a range of fill options - from a light fill to a heavier fill for additional warmth.

Skinny Hoods

Made from lycra, these hoods fit snugly over your horse’s mane and face. Great for use the night before a show to keep the mane clean and ready for plaiting. They also allow the unplaited mane to sit flat. In our opinion, not for everyday use and not for use in the paddock.

Anti-Sweat Rugs

A light sheet featuring open weave to allow for excess moisture to be wicked away from the skin. Often used after exercise or after a bath when the horse must be dried before rugs are put on or before the horse is turned out.

Anti-sweat rugs allow the horse to dry without becoming cold, and allows for the sweat to dry while the horse’s temperature is regulated.

RUG SHOWCASE 1680D WINTER COMBO RUG Waterproof 1680D winter combo rug.

180gm polyfill in body and 50gm in neck with taffeta lining. Quick release chest straps, crossover surcingles and removable leg straps.

Sizes: 5’9 to 6’6 $100.00 Available from Bastille Horsewear - www.bastillehorsewear.com

EUREKA SYNTHETIC WINTER COMBO Eureka Synthetic Combo with 600 Denier Outer twice treated waterproof, 220GSM Polyfill body & 200GSM polyfill neck with cotton lined body, anti rub synthetic satin in shoulders. combo neck & tail flap. Double NP chest straps, double x-over surcingles with elastic, 2 secure velcro combo neck fittings, deep shoulder gussets, removeable leg straps and 3 gathered rump darts for a moulded fit. Sizes: 5’0 to 6’9 $109.95

Available from National Equestrian Wholesalers - www.natequest.com.au

FLEECE RUG Stylish Black fleece rug with silver grey binding.

Rug features: Black satin around neck to prevent stretching of the neckline. 280g anti-pill polar fleece. Double chest straps, crossover surcingles and leg straps. Fleece is quick drying and perfect as an under rug for extra warmth during winter or as a stable rug on chilly nights in any season.

Sizes: 4’3 to 6’6 $50.00 Available from Bastille Horsewear - www.bastillehorsewear.com

HORZE WEATHERTREK RIDING SHEET The WeatherTrek riding sheet protects the horse’s back from rain and prevents dampness while riding. The blanket is made of a sturdy, breathable, water-resistant nylon material. It has net lining and a teflon coating from DuPont. It fits well and is easy to adjust around the saddle with a strong Velcro strap. The reflective trim around the contour and Z logo help make this rug visible both day and night. Perfect for winter and wet spring weather when you can’t avoid riding in the rain. Particularly useful whilst warming up at competitions.

Sizes: 125cm - 155cm $55.00

The Stable Magazine www.thestablemagazine.com Available from One Stop Horse Shop - www.onestophorse.com.au

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HORSECARE

SPOTLIGHT

The Stable’s Rug Guide

CHEAT SHEET In hot weather, your horse can benefit from a light sheet to help to reflect the sun’s hot rays. If your horse has pink skin, a light cotton/ summer rug will help to protect him from being sunburnt. A summer rug is also useful for keeping your horse clean - just make sure your horse’s comfort comes before aesthetics!

On Spring days where the nights are cold and the days are warm, don’t over-rug your horse. If you can’t be there on warm mornings to remove a rug, and back at night to replace it, choose a rug with less fill instead, (or one that breathes well and isn’t too hot) so while your horse will still have some extra warmth for those chilly nights, he won’t overheat during the day.

When it is raining, ensure your horse’s rug is waterproof enough to resist the rainfall, and that is does not allow water to soak through to the horse’s coat or skin. If you don’t have a waterproof rug, don’t rug your horse. Choose a level of fill appropriate to the temperature.

When it’s cold, choose a weatherproof rug appropriate for the temperature.

In the middle of winter you can always add an under rug for additional warmth, such as a polar fleece or woollen rug. It is also a much better idea to buy rugs to suit both your horse and your climate, rather than piling rugs on top of rugs. Choose two or three good quality rugs for different purposes - don’t make your horse a walking clothes horse! Two rugs worn at the one time should be sufficient!

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WAT KAISER 16.3hh 9yo Bay Gelding $POA

New South Wales

SPOTLIGHT BAMBOROUGH

JITTERBUG 13.1hh 9yo Chestnut Gelding $18,000 Tasmania

SPOTLIGHT ELEGANT RIDING PONY Brown weanling filly, mature 13hh $4,000

New South Wales

RUG SHOWCASE BOUNTY HUNTER SYNTHETIC WINTER COMBO Lightweight Bounty Hunter Synthetic Combo is ideal for Autumn/ Spring Seasons or horses/ponies with woolly winter coats. They are 600 Denier Outer twice treated waterproofed, 100 GSM Polyfill body & 100GSM polyfill neck with cotton lined body, satin lined shoulders. combo neck & tail flap. Double NP chest straps, double x-over surcingles with elastic, 2 secure velcro combo neck fittings, deep shoulder gussets, removeable leg straps and 3 gathered rump darts for a moulded fit. Sizes: 4’3 to 6’9 $95.00

Available from National Equestrian Wholesalers - www.natequest.com.au

SHOWCRAFT SUMMER RIPSTOP COMBO RUG Lightweight, shower proof summer ripstop combo rug that will protect your horse against UV rays, flies, dust and grime. Fully bound with satin lined neck area to protect your horses’ mane. Comes with a large tail flap and secure fittings. Cotton/nylon ripstop material.

Also available as a standard rug.

Sizes: 4’3 to 6’9 $69.95 Available from One Stop Horse Shop - www.onestophorse.com.au

1680D RAINSHEET 1680 denier rainsheet. Reflective binding.

Nylon lined to help prevent rubbing. Double chest buckles, crossover surgingles and removable leg straps. The cut of this sheet seems to be better suited to deep chested horses.

The front is a bit low on narrower and low withered horses and ponies. Sizes: 4’3 to 6’9 $85.00

Available from Bastille Horsewear - www.bastillehorsewear.com

HARRY’S HORSE® OUTDOOR RUG Outdoor rug with fleece lining, seamless on top and no filling. Action gussets, tailflap, nylon chest lining, X-surcingles, taped seams and detachable elasticated legstraps. A perfect solution for those warmer days when you’d still like to offer your horse some protection from the elements.

Impermeability: 2000WR/WP Breathability: 2000MVP Outside: 600D ripstop polyester Lining: 65% polyester/ 35% cotton

The Stable Magazine www.thestablemagazine.com Available from Horses-Store.com - www.horses-store.com

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HORSEMANSHIP >> HORSEMANSHIP

What impact are you really having on your horse?

An interesting subject, and one that I cover in my lessons and clinics – but how much do our moods affect our horses?

At the recent confidence clinic we spent a lot of time on our self awareness – our anxiety levels, how we were feeling, and how to adjust our state into one of calm and quietness. We had many interesting moments at the camp – but one for me stands out. It was day 1 and we had headed into the arena after some group work, and we were working on simply ‘parking’ our horses. When the participants, horses and coaches first arrived in the arena there was a level of energy – nervousness, excitement, anxiety in both the owners and horses alike – in addition the grounds were about 4 inches deep in lush grass that the horses were extremely interested in. We spent time grounding ourselves – focusing on our breathing, clearing our minds (a standing meditation if you like), and simply sending a ‘bump’ down the line when our horses tried to eat. Then pure magic happened. The horses went from fidgeting, walking, eating, pulling, bumping into their owners, and the owners went from fidgeting, micro managing, to an amazing 2 full minutes (yes I was timing it) to complete peace. The horses, the owners came to a place of pure in the moment, calm, confident, bliss. Without being there it is hard to understand the profoundness of this moment. I’m not even sure that all the participants understood the significance of the experience, but what had happened was that all of the horses, in that moment, tapped into their owners calm, quiet demeanours and had realised that they were ‘ok’. The very thing we seek from our equine relationships.

So, to answer the question I posed – we have a massive impact on our horses, all the time. From the time they are born our horses instinctually read the ‘state’ of the herd or the group that they are in – if the group is excited – then we are all excited, if the group is frightened, then it pays to be frightened – if you are not then evolution has had a way of reducing these undesirable traits.

Ask Tanja...

So in the journey of horsemanship or simply owning horses, our goal is to ‘be the boss, the alpha, the leader, the confidant.

The one that our horse looks to in times of need – however we don’t usually practice an awareness of self.

We expect, or we want, our horses to be calm, confident and willing, and yet we arrive at the paddock after a stressful day at work or school, after a fight with our partner, or when we are tired and cranky, and we expect them to ‘ignore that bit’.

In fact most of the time we don’t even realise that cause and effect is happening right under our noses. We think more like this “oh great I had a fight with my partner and now my horse is nervous and spooky (or acting out), that would be right its ‘one of those days’. Bullshit. The reason we have ‘one of those days’ is because we allow the first thing that happens in the morning, to dictate to us what the rest of the day is going to be like, and we carry that baggage (anger, anxiety, helplessness) to each encounter that we have that day (both human and animal) and then each encounter is tainted.

I’m not saying we need to go through life as emotional flatliners not responding to the things that happen around us – but what I am saying is we need to be mature enough to think “that fight with my partner this morning has really set me off – I need to calm down and reset before I work with my horse today” or whatever it might be.

We need to own our state, and change it if it needs changing – we have external influences every day that can change our state, our horses do not understand this.

If we want his respect we need to behave like we deserve it – by being consistent, confident and calm.

Food for thought

Have you got a question you’d like to ask Tanja about your horse?

Send your question to tanjajkraus@gmail.com with ‘Ask Tanja’ in the subject line - and check future issues of The Stable for Tanja’s responses!

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Tanja Kraus Horsemanship Building the relationship with our equine partners. Confidence, trust, balance are all things TKH can help you build with your horse.

Calendar AUGUST 9th 10th 16th & 17th 23rd & 24th 30th & 31st

Kids Club 1 Day - What you need before you need it (Worming, temperatures, needles.)

Horsemanship Glenreagh Horsemanship Clinic Wauchope Liberty Clinic Glenreagh

SEPTEMBER 6th & 7th 13th & 14th 20th & 21st 22nd-24th 27th & 28th

Horsemanship Clinic Dressage on the Trail Liberty Clinic Kids Clinic - Gymkhana theme Advancing Liberty

Tamworth Coffs Harbour Gold Coast

0412 592 033 tanjajkraus@gmail.com The Stable Magazine www.thestablemagazine.com http://tanjakraushorsemanship.wordpress.com

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TRANSPORTFEATURE

REDUCING

STRESS When Transporting Horses Travelling with your horse can be a stressful experience for both you and your horse. Be it a short trip down the road or a long haul journey, there are quite a number of factors to consider, including the safety and maintenance of both vehicles (car and float) as well as the animal welfare side of things. There is always a certain level of stress involved for your horse, even if he loads willingly onto your float, so the comfort and safety of your horse should be your top priority.

So before you set out on your journey, read on for our tips and hints to ensure your trip is as safe and stress free as possible!

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DIY Travel - Safety First!

It’s important to make necessary safety checks before you set out. Your car and float should both be in good working condition. Before each trip check your float for signs of wear, particularly if you do not float your horse regularly.

Risk factors while travelling include injury to horses - accidents, sudden stops, horses falling or losing their balance. Horses can also suffer extreme fatigue and exhaustion which can lead to collapse. Dehydration can also occur, particularly when away from home. Some horses get used to drinking from a particular water source, and when away from home may refuse to drink water supplied to them.

Keeping your horse well hydrated is important, not only as they can dehydrate quickly, but when exercise (sweat/fluid loss) is also coupled with travelling, as it is when you attend a lesson or a show, it can mean that the stress of travel can compound or accelerate the dehydration.

TRANSPORTFEATURE EQUINENEW

Before you leave, ensure your horse has been healthy in the lead-up to the trip, that he or she is in good health, and has been drinking normally prior to setting out.

Avoid transporting horses who are ill or showing early signs of illness (elevated temperature, loss of appetite, signs of discomfort, nasal discharge, etc.), unless it is necessary for veterinary treatment.

Studies have been undertaken to determine the stress of travel, in particular the amount of fatigue suffered by horses during travel. In an article on the Kentucky Equine Research website, (www.ker.com) some interesting statistics are discussed.

Long travel of over 900 kilometres can have a significant impact on the horse, with changes evident in both blood profiles (measuring levels of hormones and chemicals) and in the signs of fatigue exhibited by the horses. Trips of under 90kms should usually not lead to a loss of ability to exercise of any significant change in blood profiles in a healthy horse. Trips of over 900km usually require a rest period of a few days before the horse is given any strenuous exercise.

The KER article also refers to two studies undertaken to determine the effects of travel on the horses level of hydration. The horses in the study had been transported in small trailers for 24 hours. “When the outside temperature averaged 27.3C horses lost more than twice as much weight from dehydration than when the outside temperature averaged 21.5C.�

The Stable Magazine www.thestablemagazine.com 63

TRANSPORTFEATURE Stress is a factor in any floating trip - even if your horse is a seasoned traveller, studies have shown that in most cases, floating or transporting a horse does lead to signs of stress in horses, such as an elevated heart rate and other physiological signs. Minimising the degree of stress associated with travel will assist in keeping your horse happy and healthy, and hopefully, he’ll be happy to load up for your next trail ride or competition!

“Dehydration can be moderated by offering water periodically during transport, although horses may repeatedly refuse to drink. Dehydrated horses may sometimes drink to excess, resulting in colic if they are given unlimited access to water. One study showed that giving severely dehydrated horses 12 litres if water at 30-minute intervals led to colic signs, while in another study moderately dehydrated horses drank 14 litres if water at 30-minute intervals... Dehydrated horses should be carefully observed for signs of distress while they are being rehydrated and should not immediately be given free access to water after a long period of transport.”

Read the full article at: http://www.ker.com/ library/equinereview/2010/11/transporting-horsesmanagement-to-minimize-stress.html

Before You Leave

Ensure your float, like your car has a regular check up with a mechanic. Brakes, towing couplings, and structural soundness are all essential for a safe float trip. Regularly check your float for signs of wear and tear. Ensure the floor is sound and non-slip.

Respiratory problems are another risk factor when transporting horses. Ventilation in floats, coupled with lengthy travel time where the horse is not able to lower his head can lead to bacterial infections caused by a build up of mucous secretions in the airways. Horses should be given a break every three hours or so, and unloaded and allowed to graze, which in turn will allow mucus secretions to drain.

Floats with poor ventilation can also be a contributing factor to respiratory problems, as can feeding of hay in the float, where hay particles and dust can be released when the horse breaks a mouthful from his biscuit. Symptoms of respiratory disease can become evident whilst the horse is in transit, or between 24 hours to seven days following travel. Horses suffering respiratory infections will exhibit an elevated temperature, and other symptoms may include depression, loss of appetite, increased respiration rate (shorter, shallow breaths), coughing and/or nasal discharge.

If you’ve been away from home for a competition, always ensure that the horse is cooled off completely, and allow ample time for him to graze, drink some water and relax before loading him into the float for the journey home.

(There’s one reason to stick around for presentations!)

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Before you leave, ensure that the coupling is fastened securely, that your chains are crossed over and your D-Links are securely fastened. The trailer coupling and the tow bar should be level. Before each trip ensure that your cable for connecting the lights on your float is in good working order - and check your brake lights and each indicator every time before setting off on your journey.

DID YOU KNOW?

Even if you hire a float or borrow one from a friend, it is your responsibility as the driver of the vehicle to make sure the float is registered and that it complies with all relevant laws and regulations.

TRANSPORTFEATURE EQUINENEW

TRANSPORT BOOTS Fitted, thickly padded transport boots with hard plastic support in the back hoof area. The ultimate in floating protection!

Close with an ‘easy-grip’ Velcro strap.

Sold in sets of 4.

Your one stop shop for horse supplies and riding equipment!

www.onestophorse.com.au

$110 SET OF 4!

RecoverX Perfect to have on stand by for administration after a float trip to assist tired muscles in recovery!

RecoverX is the strongest recovery product for the equine athlete ever developed. Giving your horse the strongest single serve of the key aminos required to have your horse recovered and ready for the next time you need to ask them for that extra effort. RecoverX is 100% pure pharmaceutical grade amino’s, no fillers so why purchase a paste that contains very little key ingredients and more fillers. Make sure you always have one on hand!

Find out more & order online!

www.opennutrition.com.au The Stable Magazine www.thestablemagazine.com 65

TRANSPORTFEATURE

The stress factor for your horse doesn’t have to be associated with just the idea of being inside the float, although certainly, the ride in a hot metal box along a bumpy road certainly can’t be pleasant!

Stress factors The following factors have been pinpointed as stress factors for horses travelling in floats or trucks.

> >

The vibration and noise of the moving vehicle

> > > >

Lack of ventilation/poor ventilation in the vehicle

The horse having to balance himself through turns, inclines, declines, sudden stops and during acceleration & deceleration Confinement and higher temperatures in floats and trucks Exhaust fumes and dust in the air from hay or bedding Dehydration and fatigue (particularly on long trips)

Studies in Japan involving Throughbreds who travelled for between 12 and 36 hours showed that even a 12 hour trip can affect the horse’s immune system, requiring a rest period of several days to recuperate. Of the horses who travelled for an extended period of 36 hours, more than 43% developed a fever.

Although a 36 hour trip would be unheard of for the majority of our horses, it serves to highlight the stresses that transport can place on the horse. This is why a well ventilated float and regular rest stops are so important!

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Take this with you!

First Aid Kit: Having a travel size first aid kit in your float is an excellent idea. It should be small enough that it can be easily chucked into the car or float, but contain necessary items to administer first aid for illnesses or injury that may occur when you’re away from home.

Water from home: Invest in a couple of 20L water containers (from your local camping/ fishing store) and fill them with fresh water from home before you head out. Some horses are fussy and may refuse to drink water from another source.

Spare halters and lead ropes: A must! You never know when a spare halter and lead rope might come in handy. Buy a new set and leave it in your float.

Extra baling twine: A handy item to have for a myriad of reasons!

TRANSPORTFEATURE EQUINENEW

Visit www.goneriding.com.au or drop into our store in Mansfield in Victoria’s high country!

SAFE-T-TIE What is Safe-T-Tie? Safe-T-Tie is a revolutionary way to safely tie your horse anytime, anywhere, even when you are not right there with him. Portable and reusable, Safe-T-Tie is a horse safety release we believe no horse owner should be without.

Why Safe-T-Tie? Whenever you tie your horse, it is great to feel comfortable in the knowledge that doing so will not reinforce a bad habit or cause the potential for an accident that could lead to severe injury or even death. A safer alternative to solid tying or using a temporary solution such as baling twine to tie up a horse, SafeT-Tie eliminates horse-tying problems. When horse tethering with a lead rope, simply attach Safe-T-Tie to the lead and you’re all set.

How Do I Use Safe-T-Tie? When you tie up a horse with Safe-T-Tie, you still need to find a solid post, wall, partition, or other object that is firmly anchored, which will not break away before the horse safety release does. With horse tie knots, you must constantly watch the horse to ensure he does not panic and injure himself; with Safe-T-Tie, the object is for the tie to give way under a certain amount of pressure.

Going on a trip?

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Equipped with five simple loop settings, Safe-T-Tie is strong and sturdy. Do not tie your horse or pony to anything that moves; be sure to test fence posts and other items that could be weak at the bottom, which could be ripped up out of the ground in the event your horse panics. Whatever level of resistance you choose, Safe-T-Tie will release when placed under sudden, severe pressure. You will still need to tie your horse at back level, short enough so that he cannot become entangled. Using Safe-T-Tie minimizes the risk of injury to your horse as well as to others nearby.

Colours Available: Black, Green, Blue, Red & Pink

Single Safe-T-Tie: $12.95 4 Pack - $45.00

Transporting a horse can be a very stressful event for both horse and human. Horses need to eat frequently for both their physical and mental health. As the horse’s stomach is small, and empties within an hour, they need to constantly be foraging. Constant chewing causes sodium bicarbonate to be naturally released in the horse’s saliva, therefore reducing the risk of stomach ulcers by counteracting the HCL in the horse’s stomach. Using a slow feeder system for your horse allows them to always have something available to chew on.

This constant foraging reduces stress, allows the intestinal bacteria to remain balanced therefore reducing the incidence of colic or loose stools, or stomach ulcers.

More than 3-4 hours without anything in the stomach will drastically increase the incidence of stomach ulcers. Add that on top of the fact that competition horses are transported vast distances with very limited feed and often long periods of floating without a break and you have horses at very high risk of ulcers.

Find us on Facebook!

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TRANSPORTFEATURE Did you know?

We always load the heaviest horse on the right hand side, or, if only one horse is travelling, load him on the right hand side of the float.

Why? Because our roads are slightly convex they are slightly higher in the centre and fall away on the edges. Placing the horse (or the heaviest horse) on the right side of the floats assists in balancing the float.

Travel Do’s & Don’ts: Don’T tie the horse too high or too

short in the float so that he is unable to move his head or neck. Keeping his head too high is not only uncomfortable, but can also lead to respiratory problems, as the act of grazing (with the horse’s head down) is a natural way that mucous secretions are cleared.

Don’T tie the horse too loosely either

- there is no place for slack leadropes around the horse’s legs.

Do drive carefully and safely. Plan

your route before setting out, avoid erratic driving, increase your breaking distance and take corners carefully.

Do buy the best float you can afford, and maintain it. A cheap float will not save you money in the long run.

Appropriate attire for your horse!

To rug or not to rug? Travel boots or none?

Basically, what your horse should wear is dependent on many factors. Your should not always rug your horse in the float. It’s important to remember that float, particularly if not open or well ventilated can be like a hot box in the warmer weather. Dress your horse appropriately for the conditions and the length of your journey. Protective boots can be an asset but only if they are well fitted. Loose boots or tired velcro can cause more problems on than off anything that will interfere with the horse’s ability to right his balance in the float should be left off.

What to look for in a float

Many float manufacturers are now including added features for the comfort of your horse and for your peace of mind.

Long gone are the days where a float as just a float. Now we have straight load, angle load, a myriad of extras or add-ons, ventilation systems, exhaust fume diverters and other clever modern inventions designed to make your journey a pleasure rather than a hassle. (Although no float manufacturer can make a float that guarantees bad loaders will willingly climb aboard, so there still may be a struggle with the loading process!)

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Don’T feed dry, dusty hay in your float. It contributes to dust in the air.

Do check your float regularly and have it serviced when required, just as you do your towing vehicle.

Do allow your horse a travel break every three hours or so on long trips. Unload him, allow him to graze and stretch his legs.

Do put time into float training your horse if he is a nervous loader or nervous traveller.

Do remove the divider if you’re floating just one horse.

Do clean your float thoroughly after

every use. Not only is it good practice, but it will assist in keeping the floor of your float in good working order. Excessive damp/horse urine can cause a wooden floor to rot.

TRANSPORTFEATURE

KERx NANOlE

from Kentucky Equine Research

KERx NanolE is a source of revolutionary nanodispersed highly bioavailable liquid vitamin E for all horses. Vitamin E contributes to the well-being of the horse and plays a vital role in immune, cardiovascular, circulatory, neuromuscular and reproductive functions. In addition, vitamin E is an essential component of body-wide antioxidant defences. Supplementing with NanolE is highly recommended prior to relocation, long-distance travel, weaning, or other stressinducing events, to provide a boost to antioxidant and immune defences.

www.ker.com

HALTER SETS from

FEATURES PADDED NOSEBAND & CROWN

www.horses-store.com de Sets inclu 2m halter & ! lead rope

CRYSTAL NAVY

$49.95

CRYSTAL PINK

ALPINE

$39.95

$49.95

The Stable Magazine www.thestablemagazine.com 69

TRANSPORTFEATURE Even the standard of hire floats seems to have improved, although all care should be taken when hiring a horse float.

There are multitudes of horror stories on the topic of poorly maintained trailers owned by large trailer hire companies. Try to find a hire company that specialises in floats, and whoever you hire your float from, inspect it thoroughly before you hitch it to the car and drive away.

When looking for a float to purchase, be prepared to spend your money on a good quality float. Skimping on the purchase price or choosing an old broken down float can be more trouble than it’s worth (unless you have the skill and know-how to carry out professional repairs yourself). Newer floats tend to have improved ventilation systems, and more expensive models should feature better suspension systems than older style models, making for a more comfortable ride.

Is your float roadworthy?

As floats are often used seasonally (in warmer months when we’re all keen to get our and compete, or travel to other destinations for trail riding) there is a risk that if not housed or cared for correctly, that your float may suffer degradation during periods of little use. Placing a plastic bag securely over your coupling can assist in keeping it rust free, and parking your float on a concrete surface can help in keeping rising damp from damaging your float floor.

Before you set out check all couplings for rust, wear or damage. Check your tyres (for signs of wear, and ensure they are inflated according to the manufacturer’s instructions), the towbar on your vehicle, wheel bearings and the wiring for your lights. Always check that your float complies with all laws and regulations for your governing road transport body.

Tying horses up in floats...

Some people prefer to use breakable halters (such as leather as opposed to unbreakable, nylon halters), and horses are tied to baling twine or clever inventions such as the ‘V-Tie’ or ‘EquiTie’ - both available from Grosvenor Park Products - www. grosvenorparkproducts.com.au, or the Safe-T-Tie, available from Gone Riding - www.goneriding.com.au In any case, while you do not want your horse loose when you’re out and about, it is generally preferable to have your horse tethered to a breakable tie, rather than a solid object. A horse who pulls back and who is tethered to a solid object (just as a fence post of chest bar in a float) can do more damage to themselves than if they are able to pull back and the tie releases.

You should always have a handler in the float to untie and hold the horse before the tailgate and ramp are unfastened. Horses who rush out backwards can be extremely dangerous, and time should be taken to attempt to better accustom the horse with the float and to re-establish ground handling methods.

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How’s your driving?

Towing a float, especially one containing live cargo is a skill, and it takes practice. Basic things like maintaining ample stopping distance between your vehicle and the car in front, and ensuring you slow adequately for turns and corners are just the basics.

Unfortunately on the roads, there are always factors you cannot control - other drivers. Maintaining concentration, being vigilant and ensuring a safe distance from other road users will help to keep your horse as safe as possible.

> >

Try to use the left lane whenever possible.

Know your route and prepare - leave yourself ample time to change lanes before an upcoming intersection.

>

Give other road users plenty of notice in advance of you turning or braking.

>

Check your mirrors regularly, and head check before every turn or lane change.

>

Try to maintain consistent speeds and avoid accelerating or decelerating rapidly.

Other drivers on the road can be quite impatient when following a horse float. With live cargo, taking your time to negotiate turns, corners and assess your surroundings is important, and you should not be pushed into driving dangerously or too quickly to avoid annoying other drivers. The road is a shared space that both you and other drivers have the right to use. Don’t be intimidated into increasing your speed for other road users.

If there are quite a few drivers behind you while you’re towing a float, you can look for an appropriate place to pull over to the side of the road safely to let them pass. Alternatively, they are welcome to overtake you when it is safe and legal for them to do so.

EQUI-TIE from

Grosvenor Park Products Equitie is easy to use - simply attach it between your lead rope and securing ring. Its clever design using durable rubber and an easy-release clip means it is strong enough to secure your horse but provides an instant, reliable breakpoint should your horse panic. Because it is made of rubber it has some stretch, so if a horse tries to walk off gently it gives but reminds the horse it is tethered, without jolting and panicking the horse.

However, if the horse pulls back sharply, it is designed to break before other equipment, such as headcollars, and to prevent injury to your horse.

You can use Equitie wherever you tether your horse in the stable, yard and float – it is weather-resistant and easy to move. It comes in four great colours and looks far more attractive and professional than that ugly twine! At just $12 each or four for $40 (plus postage), Equities are an economical but invaluable way to reduce the risk of injury to your horse while tethered.

www.grosvenorparkproducts.com.au

PROUD-AID PROUDFLESH WOUNDCARE TREATMENT FOR HORSES

• Minimizes scarring and promotes healing in the treatment of cuts and wounds.

• Helps protect from gross contamination and invasive dirt from entering the wound.

• Aids in the Treatment of wounds, scratches, wire cuts & other horse disorders • Bandaging is not necessary but recommended.

Uniquely formulated to aid in the prevention and elimination of proud flesh Available from most produce stores, saddleries and veterinarians

www.proud-aid.com.au

TRADE ENQUIRIES: AIRR - Phone: 0358210922 ANIMAL SUPPLIES - Phone: 02 8868 8600

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TRANSPORTFEATURE Putting a bit of time in on the ground to practice loading and unloading can make your actual trips a much less stressful experience!

Using a professional transport company Using a reputable transport company to move your horse from ‘A’ to ‘B’, particularly if you don’t have your own float or towing vehicle is a wonderful idea. The best way to find someone to transport your horse is through word of mouth.

You know what horse people are like - news of a job well done will travel far. News of a job poorly done? The same. Whoever you get to transport your horse should be experienced handling horses and have a purpose built vehicle - whether it is a truck or a float, it should be made for the job of moving horses, and should not be just some truck driver dude with a poorly re-purposed furniture truck. (Trust me, they are out there.)

An understanding of the care your horse requires while in transit is so important, even if your journey is only a quick trip. Certainly, long haul or interstate travel is definitely best left to the experts. Generally companies on big runs around the country will have designated rest stops, and adhere to animal welfare guidelines when transporting horses. Again, choose a company highly recommended by others.

Ensure you discuss your needs with the transport company.

Not just the pick up and drop off address, but enquire as to the number of rest stops, whether overnight accommodation is provided for your horse on long trips, and ask about the transport conditions in the truck. Of course, you can’t expect a luxury stable on wheels, but you can expect safe and comfortable transport for your horse. If your horse is particularly small or particularly large, it can be a good idea to check as to whether their trucks will accommodate your horse. The last thing you want is your 17.2hh Clydesdale cross crammed into a regular sized bay, or your small Shetland wandering around under dividers!

Advantages of trucking Trucking is often preferable to floating horses who are not wonderful loaders or good travellers. Purpose built transport trucks offer roomy quarters, where horses are able to balance themselves adequately. The suspension is likely to be much better, and the journey in the hands of an experienced truck driver should be preferable to a small and rickety float.

Horses who refuse to load on to a float have been known to walk onto a truck without batting an eyelid!

Transporting your horse really comes down to common sense. Keep safety at the forefront of your mind, take all necessary precautions, ensure your vehicle and float are well maintained, take your time when out on the road, and ensure you check your horse regularly. This should allow for a safe and stress free journey!

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Scramblers & Climbers Horses who are typically bad travellers are usually man-made bad travellers. Many breakers and trainers insist that even unbroken horses (when transported properly) don’t seem to naturally scramble or climb the walls of a float. Driving style and technique certainly have a lot to do with this - and a horse who has had a bad experience in a float is less likely to be keen to get back into a float after a scare or after suffering an injury.

Tips for bad travellers:

>

Take out the divider if you’re floating only one horse. Contrary to popular belief, the divider doesn’t assist in the horse keeping his balance by providing something on which to lean, rather it can prevent the horse from taking the room he requires to spread his legs to balance himself. With the divider removed, you horse can also choose to travel on a slight angle if he prefers.

>

Sedation of horses for transport is an option if the horse is a particularly bad traveller.

> If a horse scrambles while on a float with another horse, try floating him by himself. Similarly, if he scrambles on one side of the float - try the other side. >

Ensure there is sufficient room in the float for your horse - a tight fit does not make for a comfortable trip.

> Allow plenty of time for loading and unloading.

You don’t want to add time pressue on top of the stress of loading a bad traveller!

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The Tail End brought to you by...

Horse Personality Types While we know that every horse is an individual, each with their own quirky habits and idiosyncrasies, there definitely are certain 'types' of horses, at least in my experience, I can draw parallels between horses I've known and horses I've met and recognise common threads in them. So here are a few observations on the types of horses I've met in my travels so far... Is your horse's personality type one of them...?

Miss Bossy Boots You definitely will have known at least one of these.

Miss Bossy Boots is THE BOSS. How dare you question that?! Often a ‘been there, done that’ type, this mare knows what she wants and how to get it. Everything in her paddock belongs exclusively to HER, even if there are three other horses sharing the same space.

She is first to be fed (all hell will break loose if not!) and must be placed at the top of the pecking order at all times. Miss Bossy Boots is not afraid to use aggression to get what she wants, and as long as the doting owner bends over backwards to fulfil her every need, there is peace and harmony. If her owner dare question Miss Bossy Boots’ authority, he or she shall be swiftly put back in place.

The Epitome of Mare Ears back, nostrils flaring, The Epitome of Mare is one moody pony! This personality type differs from Miss Bossy Boots, although they often share many characteristics. The Epitome of Mare tends to be just as

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aggressive when warranted, although is not necessarily a dominant personality type. On her nice days, The Epitome of Mare lavishes attention and craves the company of her owner. On other days, look out for gnashing teeth and cow kicking. This pony definitely requires a red tail ribbon for the show ring, and may also share traits with Miss Sensitive (read further).

The Prissy Pony This pony must be worshipped and treated like a princess, lest she become unhappy! You cannot expect The Prissy Pony to walk through a puddle or generally get muddy or dirty. The Prissy Pony expects the best quality feed, although her preference changes on a daily basis, and she will refuse to eat anything other than what she would prefer best. The Prissy Pony is generally fussy, and if she is uncomfortable with a situation, has no reservations about letting you know, and demanding it be remedied immediately.

Some Thoroughbreds have been known to feature this character trait; it also occurs in horses over 14.2hh.

Miss Sensitive

The Evil One

Miss Sensitive is similar to the Prissy Pony, but less likely to complain and more likely to suffer in silence. Miss Sensitive is way down low in the pecking order, and prone to being upset by the slightest changes in diet or environment. She is a sensitive soul, and is often a very feminine type, although some geldings have been known to be Mr. Sensitive, so it is not a mare-only personality type. Miss Sensitive enjoys being mollycoddled by her owner, is often ill or injured, feels the cold and has been known to lose weight at the drop of a hat. Miss Sensitive can also be a Jittery & Jumpy (below) and is often hot under saddle.

Or perhaps we should call her ‘All Bark & The Occasional Bite’? The Evil One is typically a mare.

She is typically sensitive, often very grumpy, and can exhibit traits of Miss Bossy Boots or Miss Sensitive depending on whether she is a dominant personality or quite low in the pecking order. The Evil One, while on the ground can be a challenge is often crazily talented under saddle and has plenty of presence - she is just a little lacking in the ground manners department.

Mr. Reliable

The Pocket Rocket is an absolute gun of a pony, although there are two distinct variations of this personality type. The first is the Well-Behaved Pocked Rocket - similar to the Push Button Pony although with fire in his belly! The complete opposite of the L..A..Z..Y pony, the Pocket Rocket has something to prove, and goes like the clappers for his small, often very talented and confident twig of a rider. The second type of Pocket Rocket is the Cheeky Pocket Rocket.

Either he’s very good (and you know he’s planning on dumping his child rider in an extravagant and unceremonious fashion) or he’s very bad. Child riders of The Cheeky Pocket Rocket develop a very secure seat early on. This forward moving pony knows every trick in the book - and uses them on a daily basis. The Cheeky Pocket Rocket tends to also share traits with The Purely Food Orientated as well as The Absolute Dork, and despite the challenge he poses for small riders, he is an integral part of the family, as well as an excellent pony - when he chooses to be.

Mr. Reliable types make the best riding school ponies!

Not upset by much, Mr. Reliable is just a dude. He’s willing, agreeable and fun loving. Usually not too forward moving, Mr. Reliable is careful to follow his rider’s instructions down to the smallest detail and generally make the ultimate ‘best friend’ horses. He will tolerate a lot, rarely gets upset, and is the type to (almost happily) put up with small children climbing all over him. Mr. Reliable comes in all shapes and sizes - from welshies to clydesdales; and Miss. Reliables are also not unheard of.

The Push Button Pony THE pony that the family with a large disposable income choose for their son or daughter novice rider in order to win showing classes, The Push Button Pony just looks lovely no matter what the sack of potatoes in the saddle is doing. Beautiful movement, a ‘mother’s dream pony’ who has ‘been there, done that’ and who excels in all disciplines. The Push Button Pony is often so well broken that no amount of bad riding or lack of handling skill can undo the hard work that a knowledgeable breeder or breaker has put in. Truly little gems, although sometimes The Push Button Pony can be a little devoid of personality.

The Pocket Rocket

Jittery

& Jumpy

Similar to The Push Button Pony - but the larger version, and not necessarily always as well broken in, All Business horses are just about getting the job done. They are usually obedient and easy going, and often are big hunter types, or schoolmasters. The All Business horse can also be a little lacking in personality and is usually not one for too much affection.

The nervous wreck, for want of a better term, Jittery & Jumpy is a challenge for anyone but the most experienced of riders. No matter how much time you spend familiarising Jittery & Jumpy with other horses, potentially scary objects, or different riding locations, he is always a little on edge. He may settle, and he may be very talented under saddle, but there’s always that level of uneasiness in certain situations for this personality type. Jittery & Jumpy needs a calm and confident leader - and he is happy to follow. He needs constant re-assurance and is the type that would like his owner to protect him from any potentially scary situations - sometimes including his own shadow.

The Absolute Dork

The 'In Your Face' Pony

All Business

The larrikin of a horse or pony who has you in stitches with his escapades, The Absolute Dork never fails to put a smile on your face! Sometimes features traits of the In Your Face Pony and also may be The Purely Food Orientated (both below). You’ll be amazed in watching the thought process of The Absolute Dork as he keeps you entertained with his antics, often breaking the barriers of horse behaviour and seeming much more like the reincarnation of a human. He is often a best friend type, similar to Mr.Reliable.

This pony can’t leave you alone for five minutes. If you’re in his paddock, he’ll be practically standing on top of you. He has to know exactly what is going on at all times, and will stick to you like glue, lest he miss out on any food or treats that might be distributed.

(God forbid!) He can also share traits with Stubborn As A Mule (below) or The Purely Food Orientated, but he is generally a very happy and easy going pony. He rarely shies, nothing much fazes him, and he at times

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can show signs of being The Absolute Dork. You can’t leave ANYONE unattended in his paddock. Some In Your Face Ponies may be slightly on the spoiled side, so it’s important to keep your boundaries clear with these types, otherwise he’ll run all over you.

The Rev Head You might catch a glimpse of The Rev Head as he gallops past you. This bundle of energy is often easily harnessed, and has wonderful manners. He’s not usually a sensitive type, and he’s definitely not Jittery & Jumpy - he just likes going fast, and he sees nothing wrong with that! The Rev head can have either a huge personality like the In Your Face Pony, or very little, like All Business, but he is usually like The Tank (below) although often has better manners!

The Tank The horse that goes and goes - regardless of the consequences, The Tank rarely has regard for herself or those around her. She’s the type of mare who’ll finish a cross country course with her rider hanging around her neck, still galloping full pelt towards the finish line. Often lacking in personal respect and with little understanding of the concept of boundaries, The Tank is one determined horse. If The Tank does not want her rug on, The Tank will not have her rug on. You may also have to employ restraint methods to carry out routine practices including worming and farriery. Showing affection is wussy, and The Tank does not tolerate hugs or kisses from her owner. If The Tank is injured, she’ll shrug it off - and almost nothing will slow her down unless it’s you, shaking a bucket of feed to catch her. The Tank also may share traits with Miss Bossy Boots, & is the polar opposite of Miss Sensitive and The Prissy Pony.

The Easily Distracted The Easily Distracted can be similar in personality to the Jittery & Jumpy, or The In Your Face Pony. The Easily Distracted Pony is one that cannot stay focussed on one task at a time, which means that under saddle, especially in a lesson, he is a challenge for any rider! If he’d rather be out in the paddock with his friends, you’ll have trouble keeping him in the arena. This pony LOVES meeting new horses and is a bit of a social butterfly.

The Scatterbrained Most often, The Scatterbrained is a mare. Similar to The Easily Distracted, The Scatterbrained is the next level, and often shares traits with the Jittery & Jumpy. A little unsure of herself in new situations, the Scatterbrained is very difficult to keep on track, and tends to be off with the fairies quite a lot. Usually The Scatterbrained is quite elegant and light on her feet (and usually a hot blooded breed) although I have also known one Scatterbrained mare who was quite a chunky build and a bit of a L...A...Z...Y (below)!

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The Purely Food Orientated Often distinguishable by a voluptuous and wellrounded figure, the food orientated horse or pony is highly intelligent, and often, this trait is combined with Cheerfully Cheeky (below). This pony knows how to unlatch the feed shed door, and knows all the tricks in the book to coerce his owner into feeding him treats with his big liquid-brown doe eyes. If he hears the snap of a carrot breaking, he’s first in line. Often a dominant personality, this pony knows no boundaries (Rules? What are they?!) and can get his head into a bucket of feed faster than you can snap your fingers. The Purely Food Orientated Pony can also share traits with The In Your Face Pony. Under saddle, The Purely Food Orientated Pony can be either be the L...A...Z...Y (below) or the Pocket Rocket, but one thing is for sure - he’ll snatch the reins right out of your hands in a grassy paddock!

L...A....Z....Y.....

Can also be known as sleepy. Often, the ears of the L..A..Z...Y are drooping sideways. Certainly, nothing fazes this horse or pony. Sometimes associated with the effects of aging, although even younger horses and ponies can have this personality trait. Unless a situation is life-threatening (or, of course, if it involved food) good luck getting any kind of reaction from the L...A...Z...Y... type. Break out the carrots and you’ll see those ears snap forward though! Under saddle, the L...A...Z...Y is as you’d expect. This horse or pony makes for great leg strength, as it often takes a lot to get this pony moving!

Stubborn As A Mule Those hooves get PLANTED and there’s nothing you can do to convince the Stubborn As A Mule to move them - sometimes not even food! This horse or pony is often not the Jittery & Jumpy type - usually he’s a pretty chilled individual, but when he doesn’t want to partake in festivities, he flat out refuses to move. Under saddle, Stubborn As A Mule can be either forward moving or slow, although he is a master of run-outs and refusals, and generally being ornery. He is not inspired unless the activities are his idea - like a leisurely gallop across the paddock, much to the surprise of his rider. Stubborn As A Mule will not be one to tolerate the big ‘pony club’ kicks, he prefers gentle persuasion to confrontation, although if his rider is insistent and unrelenting, Stubborn As A Mule may pull out all the stops - including rearing and bucking if provided enough provocation!

All horse personality types offer us a challenge as riders and horse owners and let's face it, if they were all well behaved equines, life would be pretty boring! Celebrate your horse's quirks and appreciate his individuality - after all, some things you just have to live with!

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