WA EQUESTRIAN WA Equestrian Magazine
MAGAZINE
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ISSUE 09 / DECEMBER 2012
30th PHOTO GALLERY OF THE
ALL WELSH SHOW SPONSORED BY WA EQUESTRIAN MAGAZINE
FREE 2013 Club Ad’s For Next
Month Details Inside
How Important IS your Health ? FREE
When your horse is old?
PHOTO SHOOT VOUCHER INSIDE ..
electrolytes ELECTROLYTES SODIUM, POTASSIUM, CALCIUM, MAGNESIUM, CHLORIDE AND PHOSPHORUS www.waequestrianmagazine.com.au
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WA Equestrian Magazine
Merry Christmas From WA Equestrian Magazine
Our gift to you this christms is a Free Photoshoot with our amazing photographer Just for you and your furry Equine friend Commercial Shoots welcome too For Bookings please Contact us via our website at www.waequestrianmagazine.com.au or call us 08 9523 1109 ** Conditions and Terms Apply www.waequestrianmagazine.com.au
T EIGH W M FRO S TO LOS GAIN GHT WEI
FROM THIS
FROM THIS TO THIS
TO THIS
LAMINIT
IC EX RA CER
THE RESCUE PONY
Roman
Roman is an ex racehorse that was retired as ‘broken down’, unable to stand or walk from the pain in his hooves. After trying many feeds his new owner Lisa found Maxisoy+. Roman not only started to put on weight but has since had no laminitic attacks!
ET
LL
PE RY
Simba
Simba was purchased from a sale yard by Mitch and Nicole in April 2012. He made headlines across Australia for his poor condition and the amazing efforts of his new owners to return him to health. Maxisoy+ is proud to be Simba’s feed of choice and an instrumental role in his weight gain and recovery. The second photo of Simba was taken on the 28/05/2012 just one month after being rescued and well on his way to recovery.
D
WET
PELL
ET
JAY-JAY Jay-Jay is prone to obesity and laminitic episodes. On a diet of Maxisoy+ Jay-Jay’s weight is managed to ensure he can compete and perform. OSCAR When first purchased Oscar was grossly overweight and had digital pulses in all four feet. A diet of Maxisoy+ has allowed Oscar to become healthy and sound and perform with his trick riding team throughout WA.
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contents WA Equestrian Magazine
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Beach Saftey
8
Electrolytes
10 How Important Is your Health ?? 15 What’s wrong with feeding a high roughage diet? Absolutely nothing!!!! 16 RIBBON DISPLAY With a difference 18 When Is Your Horse Old ? 20 calendar of events DECEMBER 2012 22 Albany Agricultural Show Carriage 25 Fly Protection
CONTACT US VAS Engineering industries PTY LTD Postal Address: PO Box 35 Mundijong WA 6250 Telephone: 08 9523 1109 Email: info@Wases.com.au Web: www.waequestrianmagazine.com.au
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Editor: Erica Cavery Administration: Lilly Cable Distributor Manager: Leigh O’Hallen Graphics & Layout: Bonnie Smith
WA Equestrian Magazine
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please enquire direct to our office for full details Work with a Great supportive, easy going team to work with Contact our office for further details
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26 Horseware Ireland Launches New Bridle 28 Rider of the month: Caprice Albonetti 30 Working on the Bit Using the correct and fitting bit 34 Microchipping Is Important 36 Perth Royal Show Ringmaster - Don Chipper 41 Dangerous Trees - What makes them deadly to your 44
Fire Safety In Rural Area’s
48 30th All Welsh Show 2012 Photo gallery
ISSUE 8 DECEMBER 2012 Disclaimer: WA Equestrian Magazine is an independent publication; the editors, journalists or publishers hold no warranty nor makes any representations to the truth, accuracy or sufficiency of any description, photograph or statement contained therein. The publishers and editors take every care in the preparation; however they are not responsible for any misprint, error, mistake or typographical error printed in WA Equestrian Magazine. WA Equestrian Magazine accepts no liability for any loss which may be surfed by any person who relies either wholly or in part upon any description, photograph or statement contained therein. Contents of advertisements are the responsibility of the advertisers
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WA Equestrian Magazine
Beach Saftey Taking your horses to the beach is exciting, fun and a vibrant experience but safety is a concern for all, for the safety of hour best friend, the public and others on the beach. Its very important for us to pay attention to the control of our horses at the beach by riding them at a safe speed at all times and in a manner that does not endanger the rider, or others on the beach this could be other riders, horses in hand, dogs and children. Riders should not unduly interface with the peace, comfort of convenience of the other users of the beach, horses should be ridden at walking pace within a reasonable distance of Non-equestrian uses of the beach, to ensure the preservation of the beach its not advised to ride in to dunes or vegetation areas of cliff faces this can ask be a risk for your horses as the area’s could collapse or move spontaneously with the slight amount of pressure placed on to the area, at the end of the day sand is not concrete. Taking a horse you have control of is one thing, taking mutable horses and dogs can come into some risky business, if you cant control them don’t take them think of others not just your self, a dog can put other riders at risk. As I always say as soon as you are out numbered, you put your self in the red zone meaning you can come into trouble trying to control animals.
Assure you are aware of the beach rules, as some and most public beach’s will close to exercising horses at noon, some do not allow dogs, some allow cars to drive onto the beach. Every beach is different if you check with you local council website for these details. Also check the weather before you head to the beach, most sites will tell you if heavy wind, high tides and the temperature, assure to take plenty of fresh water with you on hot days as horses can get dehydrated from to much the heat and salt water. So others can enjoy the beach, clean up after your self, pick up rubbish as this can kill the sea animals too, consider minimizing the impact your horse has on the beach environment and ecosystems by cleaning up manure too, also cleaning the car park and wash down area’s some will abuse the right of the councils and beach owners efforts to offer this facilities but if a small effort is put in by all beach goers this could create a clean and safe environment for our horses.
Great Beach Photographers Aussie Platinum Photography aussieplatinumphotography.smugmug.com 0404 975 922
08 959 358 97
Vicki Photos
vickiphotos.smugmug.com Email: vicki.tapper@bigpond.com
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WA Equestrian Magazine
Electrolytes
By Antoinette Foster
Dr. Schussler’s analysis of the inorganic mineral ash that remains after the human or animal body is burnt revealed that it is primarily made up of twelve mineral salts: and that therefore these minerals must play a vital role in both the physical integrity and proper functioning of the organism as a whole. The main electrolytes are sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, chloride and phosphorus. Minor electrolytes are iron, copper, zinc, cobalt, selenium, sulphur and iodine which are required in trace amounts. One litre of sweat contains approximately 10 gm of salt (8 gms of sodium Chloride and 2 gms of potassium chloride). ElectroPlus acts as a preventative from electrolyte imbalances because it is a buffered acid/alkaline neutraliser, electrolyte and mild diuretic formula. ElectroPlus contains ten tissue salts they are listed below: each tissue salt has a key role to play, some of these are indicated: calcium phosphate ( cell builder), calcium sulphate (suppuration remover), calcium fluoride (tissue strengthener), potassium phosphate
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(nerve power activator), potassium sulphate (cell oxygenator), potassium chloride (congestion remover), sodium sulphate (problem fluid remover), iron phosphate (inflammation remover), magnesium phosphate (neuromuscular coordinator) , sodium phosphate (metabolic acid remover) with the inclusion of zinc sulphate (insulin utilisation, sexual maturation, sperm function, RNA production, retina function, white blood cell function, alkaline phosphatase utilisation and liver function). Hi-Form E also contains sodium chloride (a major component of the cations of the extra cellular fluid and will regulate the acid-base equilibrium. About 95% of the sodium which leaves the body is excreted in the urine) . ElectroPlus also contains the herb Uva Ursi which is used because of its urinary antiseptic action, diuretic action
and astringent. Because the leaves are the only part of the plant used this herb can cause discolouration of the urine. Vitamin C is also used in the ElectroPlus for its enormous benefits. Although horses synthesise vitamin C they do not synthesise enough and therefore when undergoing enormous stress require high levels. (speeds wound healing, gives tensile strength to connective tissue, helps activate many enzymes, speeds formation of new proteins, detoxifies substances from destroyed cells, helps prevent haemorrhage, increases urine production, a lack of vitamin C can lead to damage to muscle, capillaries, leucocytes, capillaries, erythrocytes, platelets, calcium content in the blood, liver, pancreas, spleen, adrenals, gastrointestinal tract, genitourinary tract and endocrine system).
not maintained in the longer term. Dr. Schussler’s analysis of the inorganic mineral ash that remains after the human or animal body is burnt revealed that it is primarily made up of twelve mineral salts: and that therefore these minerals must play a vital role in both the physical integrity and proper functioning of the organism as a whole. Further investigation predictably revealed that the different organs and parts of the body were made up of different minerals, and / or different apportionments of those minerals. He therefore concluded that those different minerals an / or different apportionments were vital for both the integrity and functioning of those individual organs and parts. In 1938, Dr. Maurice Blackmore (1906-1978), an Australian Naturopathic Physician, devised a method that retained the symptomatology of Schussler, but employed small pharmacological doses of mineral substance (ranging from 4mg in the case of calcium fluoride, to 260mg in the case of sodium phosphate). In 1988 Hi-Form Equine began developing formulas for use in equines using these tissue salts as part of their formulation. Each tissue salt used in Hi-Form’s formulations are used for a specific purpose. Most commercial electrolyte formulas contain industrial or technical grade minerals/ salts which are very poorly absorbed by the equine. These formulas supply very high levels of these various salts at the expense of the animal. An outline of the possibilities that can arise as a result of prescribing minerals in large therapeutic doses, or in the wrong form is as follows; • A deficiency may be temporarily corrected or balanced but
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• A mineral deficiency may be corrected at the expense of a new mineral deficiency.
Performance horses • Cause of fatigue is a reduction in energy stores of glucose which forces the horse to slow down and use free fatty acids. • Body strengthening is a vital part of the training program, but the basic problem with body strengthening is the recovery time necessary to achieve biological response and improvement. • Short training periods with a gradual increase in workload is an excellent guideline. • Bone responses are increased by training stress such as remodelling and thickening and increased strength.‘a chain is only as good as its weakest link’ • There are many factors that effect training: external, such as high winds, lightening, heat and internal, such as injury/infection, the horse’s reaction to fight or to flee. • Extreme stress can cause a series of uncontrolled reactions such as increased heart rate, blood pressure, sweating and perspiration, smooth muscle contracting of the digestive system and increased hormone levels. • The immune system can be affected by a short period of intense exercise. • It is important to control the stress levels placed on the horse. • Physical exercise is external stress and it is essential to increase stress in small amounts so the horse can cope with and adjust to stress levels.
• There is a catch 22 scenario though and that is your horse’s body must undergo stress to develop and increase his/her ability to perform. As your horse becomes fitter the range in which you can work safely becomes smaller, this means enough stress to get a training effect and too much which will damage the horse. As a horse reaches maximum fitness levels it becomes extremely difficult to further improve the horse without damaging him/her. Progressive heart rate testing is a safe reliable method of measuring your horses’ fitness level. A well balanced diet, a good daily supplement and an electrolyte is an excellent way to manage high performance horses or horses that tend to sweat profusely.
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WA Equestrian Magazine
How Important Is your Health ??
By Antoinette Foster I find it quite disturbing to hear my patients and clients say that their health is not the best, but oh well I need to get on with the day, feed the horses, work the horses, clean the horses, clean the paddock, feed the horses, buy rugs for the horses, worm the horses, shoe the horses, have the horses massaged. ‘But what about me’ well it seems ‘me’ is clearly neglected. Your health is absolutely vital, because without good health who will look after your horses? I believe it is time to take that step towards longevity, to feeling good not only within yourself but about yourself,
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to have increased energy levels, to prevent premature ageing. I recently asked 10 female adult riders a number of questions about their health, not one of these ladies said they felt terrific, they all said they lacked energy, they were tired most of the time, they thought they ate a healthy diet, but when I quizzed them further, what they thought was a healthy diet was in fact a long way from a healthy diet. Most found it hard to fit everything into a day, all were aged between 40 and 55. Most said they did not have time to go to the gym or walk the dog, most felt that riding was sufficient ex-
ercise. If one is healthy, energy levels should be surging at this time of their lives. So what can we do about it? Firstly it is important to believe that you can do something about it and that you can alter the course of your life, by simply making some changes. Many foods are not suited to certain individuals and in fact have a negative effect on health, for example some individuals should not eat olive oil as this may have a negative effect on your good cholesterol and actually drive up LDL’s. Some individuals need more
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It is a scientific fact that nutrition along with specific lifestyle changes can support our strengths and balance our weaknesses carbohydrates that others and some will find that carbohydrates are their enemy. A one size fits all approach to nutrition just will not cut it! Skipping meals and then snacking during the day is also very common with busy people, this is very unhealthy for the body and the metabolism. It is really great to see that there are now many articles written about other modalities such as Applied Posture Riding but unless you are healthy and a healthy weight all those wonderful things that professionals such as Annette Wilson teach may be wasted. It is a scientific fact that nutrition along with specific lifestyle changes can support our strengths and balance our weaknesses; our genes hold the solution to determining our lifestyle and nutrient wellbeing. There is really no clear cut solution to ensure that we stay healthy, but what we can do is take more control and this includes preventative measures which should be right up there at the top of our list. Nutrition and Science Genomic Science or Nutrigenomics has given practitioners like me a very large box of tools to improve the health and well being of patients but also put preventative measures into place. A simple saliva test can unlock doors to people’s health and longevity. Genome science began formally in 1990
and studies have continued to discover the most amazing responses connected to the human genome and how nutrition can turn your gene expression on and off! Did you know that the DNA between two individual people is about 99.9% the same, except for identical twins, only a small fraction of our DNA account for the key ways in which one human differs so much from the other? Nutrigenomics is a combination of the sciences of genetics and nutrition that reveals personalized information regarding an individual’s status and provides the basis for selecting a dietary and nutritional program best suited to achieving the healthiest and longest life possible. • Nutrigenomics uses SNP (Single nucleotide polymorphism) testing to identify areas of an individual’s genetic make-up that may be functioning less than optimally. • Nutrigenomics will help guide individuals in choosing the optimal combination of nutrients and vitamins, matched to their unique genetic makeup. A Single nucleotide polymorphism or SNP (pronounced snip) is a DNA sequence variation occurring when a single nucleotide - A, T, C, or G - in the genome (or other shared sequence) differs between members of a species (or between paired chromosomes in an individual). For example, two sequenced
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WA Equestrian Magazine
DNA fragments from different individuals, AAGCCTA to AAGCTTA, contain a difference in a single nucleotide. In this case we say that there are two alleles : C and T. Almost all common SNPs have only two alleles. Within a population, SNPs can be assigned a minor allele frequency - the ratio of chromosomes in the population carrying the less common variant to those with the more common variant. It is important to note that there are variations between human populations, so a SNP allele that is common in one geographical or ethnic group may be much rarer in another. Single nucleotide polymorphisms may fall within coding sequences of genes, noncoding regions of genes, or in the intergenic regions between genes. SNPs within a coding sequence will not necessarily change the amino acid sequence of the protein that is produced, due to degeneracy of the genetic code. A SNP in which both forms lead to the same polypeptide sequence is termed synonymous (sometimes called a silent mutation) - if a different polypeptide sequence is produced they are non-synonymous. SNPs that are not in protein coding regions may still have consequences for gene splicing, transcription factor binding, or the sequence of non-coding RNA. By having this test it means that now you can use a more scientific approach to being proactive in doing your best to prevent health problems that might otherwise occur later in life. We all know that good nutritional care is important in preventing cancer, heart disease and osteoporosis, and in defending against other diseases, but nutrigenomics takes the ability to manage our health to a totally different level. For free information please email info@prosportsnutragenomix.com visit our website www.prosportsnutagenomix.com or simply phone us on 03 97981000 for a free 10 minute consultation we can discuss how we can help improve your health, we would love to hear from you. You may be able to claim part of the testing and full consultation through your private health fund. Practitioners for ProSports NutraGenomix are Antoinette Foster Nutritional Therapist and Medical Herbalist Nutrition for Life……………….. www.waequestrianmagazine.com.au
Photo By: Leesa petfield
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Dressage Clinic Summer Series.....
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Overnight Paddocks/Yards ava on request.
Kelsarni Photographics
Beginner/Novice Dressage Clinic Summer Series December 16th 2012 , January 15th & February 12th 2013 Izz-Wil-Cal Stud –56 Almeria Parade, Bullsbrook. WA. Perth $85 per lesson (1 hour) Book early to avoid disappointment. Payments at time of Booking. Safety gear at all times. Waivers and Booking forms to be signed and dated All bookings and enquiries to Allison Domney Mb: 0417 533 591 Aadom@westnet.com.au www.waequestrianmagazine.com.au
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WA Equestrian Magazine
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What’s wrong with feeding a high roughage diet?
Absolutely nothing!!!! Written by Equine Nutritional Therapist and Medical Herbalist Antoinette Foster Dip. Nut.
matic action at the point of the mouth. Nutrition provides the basic building blocks on which our horses are built. How we feed our horses can effect reproduction, development in utero, the young foal, the developing athlete, competition horses and finally older horses Prevention is certainly better than cure!
W hen you walk into the feed store are you highly confused? Have you been told that this
feed is better than that feed and ‘my horse is doing so well on this feed’, basically since the premix and pelletised feed hit the market some 40 years ago, the industry, that is non regulated has grown and grown.
Most humans can cite the amount they eat per day even the number of calories, fats protein etc. But do you know the number of calories your horse receives each day? Or the number of calories your horse requires? Do you know precisely what level of roughage/ grain, or if in fact your horse requires grain. The most important rule to remember is that the total amount of Mega Cals of Digestible Energy is what is contained in everything your horse consumes not just grain, energy and protein is found in all types of feed, this means grazing also.
Now there are so many feeds available it has confused the simplicity of feeding according to the species, a species that has evolved to consume primarily roughage. Horses are herbivores; they are grazing animals and require high levels of roughage.
There are many software feed programs available but they do not take into consideration each horses individual requirements, they have a ‘one size fits all approach’. The horse is classified as a non ruminant herbivore, horses do not have four stomach compartments like cows, goats and sheep, but they can still digest highly fibrous feeds such as grass and hay
Recent studies have even indicated that performance horses would do well on a forage/ roughage diet with less concentrates. It is essential to provide a diet that supports the digestive system and its function. Supporting the digestive system, results in a happier, healthier and less stressed horse. These studies indicated that performance horses being fed a high forage/ roughage diet actually increased performance levels, blood PH levels were higher which could indicate that there was a reduced risk of higher lactate levels.
Most importantly the anatomy and physiology of horses has not changed, but the way horses are being fed most certainly has.
I have been a practitioner for 25 years and I have always recommended a diet with high levels of roughage. Roughage is essential and definitely reduces the risk of digestive diseases such as ulcers, colic, diarrhoea etc. Roughage also encourages the normal chewing process and assists in stimulating the enzy-
Most feed and supplement recommendations are based on the National Research Council publication which is an American publication based on the American climate, soils etc. Every horse is genetically unique and requires a diet that suits this uniqueness. Generally speaking a Warmblood horse working 4-5 x 45 minute sessions per week will maintain condition and energy levels by being fed a diet that consists mostly of roughage. This horse could be fed based on a 2 liter dipper per day, 4 dippers of rough cut long stem Oaten Chaff, 1 & ½ rough cut long stem Lucerne chaff and 1kg of whole oats or steamed and rolled barley. Very importantly, include hays which really should consist of some Lucerne hay as well as Oaten hays. Most horses performing this level of work could simply be fed the roughage component in hays and then a very small feed of say 1x 2 liter dipper of Oaten and Lucerne chaff with the oats and I always recommend a good natural daily formula. Or the other option would be to use a complete feed such as Johnsons Natural Formula, which is predominantly roughage. Remember Roughage is King!! www.waequestrianmagazine.com.au
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WA Equestrian Magazine
RIBBON DISPLAY With a difference Taking Care Of Your Achievements With Ribbonmate. Investing in a ribbon display that takes your achievements seriously is essential if you have an array of ribbons or rosettes at home and they have been shelved needlessly away. Some of your ribbons may be starting to get lost or gather dust – is this the memory you want to have of reaching your goals? In this way, your ribbon display should be a beautiful reflection of the moment you received your ribbon for all your hard earned work. After all, the ribbon itself is the only reminder you have of what you have truly achieved, not just a physical memory of winning on the day but more likely... the months of commitment and learning that led you to where you are now. Having a ribbon display allows you to openly admire and place value on all your dedication and rewarded effort. This display will equally impact anyone who visits your home, openly stating your work ethic and boldly inspiring others to achieve some of the standards you have set. Plus, it is a great conversation starter as your hobbies are openly visible and that is comforting to visitors. Anyone who has had the privilege of being awarded a ribbon for a particular event will remember the feeling they had when the ribbon was first given to them. This feeling does not have to pass and can live on in a place that it can be remembered with all the respect it deserves. www.waequestrianmagazine.com.au
Essentially, if you keep positive images of winning in your home, the people who live there, especially if you have children, are more likely to feel inspired and driven to use their own talents. A ribbon display shows them that there is value in hard work and that it does get recognised. Of course, if you are buying a ribbon display as a gift for a child or friend, it is also a great way to honour and recognise their achievements in a special way. You need a ribbon display that will showcase your efforts but more importantly fits seamlessly into your home decor. Your display holder will be simple to fit and because of the variety of colours, shapes and sizes that the ribbon display comes in, there is always one to suit every need. If you care about your ribbons and awards and they represent something important to you, then get yourself a ribbon display to finally acknowledge the landmarks in your life and share them with those you love. Having a ribbon display allows you to explore your passion and if you have never received a ribbon, then let an empty display drive you to fill it up with as many ribbons as you can. A ribbon display is more than just an accessory or useful tool, it is as essential as the camera that holds the film of all your precious memories.
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WA Equestrian Magazine
When Is Your Horse Old ?
Written by Antoinette Foster Dip. Nut. Equine Nutritional Therapist and Medical Herbalist
Just like people, horse’s age in different ways and age sometimes is not the only reason why your horse is feeling old or lacking energy. Workload and stress can age horses just like people. It can also have a major impact on Oxidative Stress, Phase 1 & 2 Detox and can certainly have an influence on inflammation. It is essential to ensure that your older horse has the correct daily nutrient intake to manage is health on a long term basis. Finding the right balance is important and this is determined by the individual requirements of each horse. Horses are rated as middle aged from the age of 13 years and most horses, like people are in the prime of their life at this age. We really must consider the consequences if our horses are not as healthy as they could be. Not being fully fit, having some degenerative joint changes, hard work, stress and diet will play a huge role in management. Just because a horse is older does not necessarily mean he requires a special diet; aging is not a disease, it is a normal process. However, many older horses with individual physical or nutritional needs might benefit from being fed a specific diet or feed modification(s) to maintain good health and body condition. Routine examinations, vaccination, de-worming, dental care, and farrier visits are integral parts of horse ownership
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and can potentially minimize the development of feeding-related issues as horse’s age. We now have a generation of horses that received this type of management on a regular basis and more horses are living and working until they are in their late 20s, 30s, and beyond. A 15-year-old horse might have physical problems due to age (tooth loss, arthritis, metabolic problems) and require a special diet, but you might have a 25-year-old horse that needs no special nutritional care whatsoever, it is simply down to each individual’s genetic make up and how their health has been managed. All required nutrients must be provided at the correct levels at all times to maintain normal body function and health. Naturally the optimum amount of any single nutrient will depend on the individual requirements this will vary depending on the attribute of each horse, genetic predisposition, temperament, environmental situations, stress, infection and even pregnant mares. More recent studies have provided practitioners, especially nutritionists with further tools to assist in the treatment of various conditions and diseases, providing the correct levels are used for the right situation and that there is no compromising of the health and
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wellbeing of the horse. This is certainly the case with any nutrients being used to assist with diseases, nutritionally related diseases or conditions etc. There may be certain individuals who require higher levels of nutrients than others and there are other ways of providing more accurate testing being developed including Gene testing. Using amino acids with other nutrients is another way of assisting with a particular need of the animal, once this has been established. We must also remind ourselves that whilst there is a division of nutrients into categories, such as vitamins, amino acids, minerals etc. there is a very long sequence of activity involving these nutrients and that this sequence may break down or become ineffective. This means that nutrients may then not be available at optimum levels. What may be normal requirements for one horse of amino acids may be bordering on deficient for another. This is where ROA’s (recommended optimal allowances) are becoming of high importance. The bioavailability of the nutrient, the way it is transported, absorbed and utilized at the cellular level are all aspects that must be contemplated if there is a deficiency assumed. I highly recommend for older horses using a preventative measure such as a joint product, but also look at a natural daily formula to support his/her health. A good diet will consist of plenty of roughage including pasture, hays, grains and oils if required. Perhaps some extra support with increasing weight may be necessary, I recommend the EquiSoy. Feeds such as the new JT Johnson Natural Formulas would also be ideal in my opinion as these feeds are steamed and compressed, but are a fibre feed and a beautifully synergistic feed unlike any other. Why I like these feeds so much is because the encourage normal chewing and digestion. Remember if your horse is an older horse and working 4-5 times a week there is great demand mentally and physically.
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WA Equestrian Magazine
CALENDAR OF EVENTS - DECEMBER 2012 SW Challenge and Campdraft SW Challenge and Campdraft Camp Drafting, Stockhorse Events, Working Hunter Dardanup Equestrian Centre Garvey Rd Dardanup WA Date: 1st Dec 2012
Getting Back in the Saddle with Karen White
Have A Go Day
Clinic, Training Day
Dressage, Novelties, Show Jumping
1594 Gnangara Road, Henley Brook WA Date: 1st Dec 2012
Darling Range Horse and Pony Club
Bring your courage and your favourite equine and let?s get you started for a Positive step in the right direction. Your horse will thank you and you will feel safe and in control again. Dreams can come true!!
Hartfield Rd Forrestfield WA Date: 2nd Dec 2012 Contact Laura 0422261474 Email: ponies_at_parties@yahoo.com
karen@karenwhite.com.au
WAPA All Breed Halter and Ridden Show
Introduction to Ground Control
Halter, Ridden and Carriage show
Brookleigh Equestrian Estate
Gosnells Pony Club Grounds
Date: 13th Dec 2012
Gay St, Gosnells WA
Spend 1 day with Dan James & Dan Steers and get an insight to the revolutionary Ground Control Techniques used by the Double Dans
Date: 2nd Dec 2012 ** SPONSORED BY WA EQUESTRIAN MAGAZINE
Tel: 08 9643 1017 Mob: 0429 803 105 Email: daz@doubledanhorsemanship.com. au Website:http://www.doubledanhorsemanship.com.au
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WA Equestrian Magazine
ASHS Stock Horse Youth Challenge
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“Get Smart With Your Horse�
Murray Equestrian Centre, Coolup
Clinic
Date: 15 - 16th Dec 2012
Lynton Stables
ASHS Stock Horse Youth Challenge
Gnangara WA
Juniors 8yrs & under 13yrs
Date: 1 - 2nd Dec 2012
Youth 13yrs & under 17yrs
Mob: 0430670685
Associates 17yrs & under 21yrs
Email: lyntonstables@gmail.com
Open to members and non members.
XC Clinic with Elizabeth Moore from Leedale Lodge Clinic State Equstrian Centre, Brigadoon 303 Cathedral Avenue, Brigadoon WA Date: 2nd Dec 2012 Pippa Brown or Elizabeth Moore Tel: 0487901697 or 0438997355 Email: leedaleclinics@hotmail.com
CLINIC
Murray Adult Riders - December Rally
3-Day Young Rider Dressage Workshop with Victoria Hamilton
Event Date(s):
Mungo Brae Equestrian Centre
16th December, 2012 Event
Date: 15 - 17th Dec 2012
Clinic, Rally
Two training sessions per day suitable for riders of all levels and disciplines. Have fun whilst learning great communication skills with your horse in a range of activities.
Venue: Pinjarra Equestrian Association Inc Lovegrove Street, Pinjarra
Victoria Hamilton Mob: 0407 773 582
Tel: 95303253 Mob: 0438446980
www.victoriahamiltondressage.com.au
Email: malnoel@bigpond.com.au
Noeleen Kentish
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WA Equestrian Magazine
Albany Agricultural Show Carriage Albany Agricultural Show Carriage Driving
Results
The Albany Ag Show was held on the 10th & 11th November with Show Driving on the Saturday and Dressage on the Sunday.
Champion Turnout – Kingee De Ville (S Clayton)
The weather held off for most of the morning on the Saturday but came in showery in the afternoon which was disappointing as the Cone Driving competition was cancelled. Competitors travelled from Esperance, Bunbury and Perth and it was great to welcome them from afar and thank them for their support. Fontwell Finale driven by a delighted Brian Nicholas was sashed Supreme Champion again in 2012. Many thanks to Gill Woodstock who travelled down from Perth to judge the Breed Classes on Thursday, Show Driving on Saturday and Dressage on Sunday.
Reserve Champion Turnout Baccara Black Velvet ( H Chapman) Champion Whip – B Nicholas Reserve Champion Whip – J Hewitt Champion Novice – Woodruff Ember (A McAuley) Reserve Champion Novice Sharbi (T McAllister) Champion Pony – Fontwell Finale ( B Nicholas) Reserve Champion Pony – Baccara Black Velvet (H Chapman) Champion Multiples – BV Jupiter & Zeus ( M Williams) Supreme Champion – Fontwell Finale ( B Nicholas) The Albany Carriage Driving Club had an Anniversary on November 19th and the club is officially 32 years old. The ACDC is the oldest club in WA being first established in Albany in 1980. Original members Brian and Diana Nicholas have remained the strongest and most dedicated members since it’s inception. We are looking forward to having many more pleasurable years and encourage new members to join in the fun. There is always a helping hand when needed and lot’s on encouragement for new drivers.
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Fly Protection
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FROM HORSEWARE there are definite differences in how sensitive horses are, so with this in mind Horseware Ireland have designed a fly protection collection to address every level of irritation. Horseware Ireland offers the perfect solution to the dreaded Sweetitch which plagues many horses and ponies over the summer months. With extensive research and development Horseware is confident that if used early enough the Rambo Sweetitch Hoody will help reduce the effects of sweet itch in 85% of cases.
With summer just around the corner, for many horses the fine weather brings its own set of problems. Just as we protect our horses in the harsh winter months, it is now equally as important to protect them from the elements in the summer months. At Horseware Ireland we have done the research, and we are here to help with a full range of fly protection items for your horse. There is no doubt that all horses are irritated by flies, but
The Amigo Vamoose rug from Horseware Ireland offers even more protection during the season. This rug offers the most advanced solution to insect control. Treated with Vamoose insect control technology which bonds with the actual fabric, it’s long lasting and more convenient than sprays. It’s effective against mosquitoes, ticks, ants, flies and midges. This rug also offers protection from sun burn, as well as helping to prevent bleaching of the coat by the sun’s ray. The active ingredient in the Vamoose insect control technology is PERMETHRIN, a man made version of an insect protectant found in certain types of Chrysanthemum flower. As Vamoose binds the active ingredient to the fabric fibres so thoroughly, it remains effective up to 20 washes. It is ODOURLESS and COLOURLESS, so you can’t tell it’s there, but the bugs can!
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WA Equestrian Magazine
Horseware Ireland Launches New Bridle The Awarding Winning
Rambo® Micklem MultiBridle
Designed from the inside out to fit the shape of the horse’s skull, Horseware’s Rambo® Micklem MultiBridle was created to be the most comfortable, flexible and effective bridle on the market. The Horseware® Rambo® Micklem MultiBridle is fashioned based upon the shape of the horses’ skull rather than the outside appearance of the head. Not only is the Micklem MultiBridle comfortable and humane but is designed for versatility. It is comprised of three main pieces of equipment combined into one: a bitted bridle with integral noseband, a lunge cavesson and a bitless bridle. The Micklem MultiBridle features the unique mouth protection system for the tongue and bars that has proven effective for many horses. The design of the common bridle has not been challenged in many years. William Micklem, an accomplished Irish horseman and the designer of the Horseware® Rambo® Micklem MultiBridle, has done just that. By extensively studying inherent problems caused by the existing shape and style of common bridles, William has created a solution with the presentation of the Micklem MultiBridle. For example, damage and discomfort is frequently caused by pressure to the facial nerves, the projecting cheek bones and upper jaw molar teeth. Horseware’s Rambo® Micklem MultiBridle prevents any damage to the facial nerves or sensitive tissues lining the cheeks and inside the mouth by removing the need for tight fitting cavessons or flash nosebands. Not only does the Rambo® Micklem MultiBridle overcome main areas of discomfort for your horse, but it replaces the need for lunging off of a bridle or traditional lunge cavesson over a bridle. There are additional benefits for horses who resist due to pain around the frequently damaged bars of the mouth or who fight contact with the bit due to too much pressure on the tongue. The special design of the Micklem Multipurpose Bridle with its wide and padded headpiece redistributes the www.waequestrianmagazine.com.au
weight from resting all on one narrow noseband strap allowing for excellent communication and control to occur. The advantages are numerous and Horseware Ireland believes riders will notice the difference in their horse. Eco friendly tannery processes are an added bonus to this already excellent choice in bridlery. The Rambo® Micklem MultiBridle was recently awarded the BETA 2008 Innovation Award. The 2008 awards were judged by international show jumpers Graham and Tina Fletcher, nutritionist Clare MacLeod and accountants and county sports enthusiast John and Bee Perkins. The judges, and Horseware Ireland, recognized the Micklem MultiBridle’s logical and effective design as a revolutionary step for the way in which we bridle our horses. The Micklem MultiBridle with all components is supplied as a set and is available in pony, cob and horse sizes.
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WA Equestrian Magazine
Caprice Albonetti Discipline:Show Horse Who are your Horses/ponies : Brayside Love Story Notable achievements to date: EWA HOTY lead rein pony 2012 What is your earliest memory of horses? getting my first pony for my first xMas when I was 1. How old were you when you learnt to ride? 4 yrs old Describe your pony in 3 words? Miracle , pleasing and gorgeous What has been your happiest moment with horses so far? Winning my first garland Funniest Horse moment? When my pony had a baby and we didn’t no she was pregnant. Which equestrian products can you not live without? Hishine oil, show sheen. How do you keep your competition horses fit? Ride 3 times a week and my mum lunges her twice a week What is your chosen/favourite breed o horse? Welsh pony Where was your first ever event? Wanneroo agriculture show What are your future goals in competing? To place at nationals and grand nationals What has personally been your most challenging moment in competition? HOTY 2012. If you could give any advice to other riders what would it be? Have fun,always smile and be nice to your pony, Are you sponsored ? if so Who are your sponsors ? Yes , WA Equestrian Magazine.
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FREE EQUESTRIAN CLUB ADVERTISMENT FOR ISSUE 9 & 10 !!!
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Click to our website to secure your free booking of a Quater Page advertisment for your Riding Club ** Conditions Apply ** Artwork Not Included - Artwork Charge $100 optional
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WA Equestrian Magazine
Working on the Bit
Using the correct and fitting bit
By Jessica Solloway
More and more information is becoming accessible to us as riders – we are learning more about the importance of saddle fit, boot fitting, correct trimming and shoeing requirements, regular dental work and why it’s important, but an area that is often skipped over is the importance of the bit fit, and I don’t just mean the length of the bit to suit the horses’ mouth. The fitting of the bit is actually a little more complex than you might think. All bits and bitting arrangements apply pressure to several different areas of the head: - Lips - Tongue - Bars of the mouth - Palate - Curb groove - Nose - Poll So when we look at all these pressure points, we realize just how much goes into bitting and bridling our horse. It’s not just a case of ‘the snaffle is the kindest bit’ anymore, we need
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to really look at the shape, size, and lengths of various parts of the horses head and mouth to assess if what we are using, or what we want to use is correct for our horse. Google is our friend when we need to research something, and will offer you many different resources when looking for information on various bits, their functions, and why they’re designed the way they are. However! Do not believe everything you read – a lot of websites are still saying that “The thicker the bit, the kinder on the horse”. Let’s discuss this common myth first. [Picture right: Thick bit (single joint eggbutt snaffle). Doesn’t allow the mouth to close] “The thicker the bit, the kinder it is on the horse as they have a larger surface area to distribute the pressure on the lips of the mouth” While this little quote may ring in your mind from what your parents, grandparents, or instructor once told you, this is actually not true. If you open
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your horses lips and wait for them to settle and close their mouths, you will find that there isn’t much room between the bars of the mouth. Now look at the thicker bit – how is a horse supposed to comfortably close his mouth around this bit? Surely that would cause bruising, pressure and discomfort on the bars of the mouth, let alone the pressure on the tongue and palate. Now think about it again – is a thicker bit really kinder? What about the wiggly tongue? The tongue thickness is something that is often not thought about, as it’s “out of sight, out of mind”. But if you think for a moment, right now, how your tongue is sitting in your mouth – how much room do you have at the top of your tongue? I know mine is sitting pretty snugly against the roof of my mouth…
However, if we make an effort and move our tongue down into our lower jaw, room becomes available. Ideally, with our horses – this amount of room tells us what thickness our horses can have in a bit. Not much, is there? Take a look at your horses’ mouths – explore the thickness of the tongue, and the fleshiness of the lips. These areas will tell you what you can use. Some horses have really, really thick tongues that take up a LOT of room in the mouth. Some have a quite small, flat tongue, which allows you more ‘play’ with the types of bits you use. So with all this in mind, how do we measure for the correct size? First of all, the horses’ actual height does not tell you what size bit your horse will need. That is another myth. When measuring the bit, you need to look at the length of the bars. For this, we measure from the inside of the rings,
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not the outside. If the bit is too big, it will slip through the mouth from side to side as you use your reins. This can be uncomfortable for the horse. If the bit is too small/narrow, the bit can cause pinching, squeezing or chaffing. Again, not very comfortable for the delicate area that is the mouth. Too fat has already been covered, but what about too thin? In my experience, the thinner the bit, the better it fits to the horses mouth – however, due to the thinness of it, it can often be classified as ‘harsh on the mouth’ because the surface area isn’t great, and gets sharper results. But when you think about riding, and using your reins, ideally you want the horse to be soft and responsive to the aids, and not having to nag, pull or tug on the mouth. So a thinner bit is not only more comfortable for the horse (think: distance between the jaws where the bit sits, the thickness of the tongue), but also means you don’t need to ‘nag’ with your hands. Food for thought. There are lots of different styles of bits – how do I know what one I want to use? First you need to measure the size for the bit. You can now buy nifty bit-fitters, which are made of rubber (and look like a bit) that are adjustable to tell you the length of bit that is required. This will save you a LOT of driving back and forth from the shop with various sizes. However, this will not tell you the thickness you need. You also need to take into consideration the rules on which discipline you ride in – for example, you www.waequestrianmagazine.com.au
cannot use a PeeWee bit in the dressage ring. Here are a few variations of bits, and different decisions YOU as a rider need to make, knowing what you know about your horses’ mouth. Single joint: the single joint required an extra 1cm on either side of the bit, because when you take up contact, the length of the bit shortens. The single joint bits are also quite known for the ‘nutcracker’ action – it puts pressure onto the bars of the mouth, and depending on where your hands are when pressure is applied (correct riding position vs too high vs too low), can cause the joint to tap the top of the mouth (palate) or go into the tongue. Double joint: uses the pressure onto the tongue. A loose ring double joint will give the mouth more room and length, encourages play and movement from the loose ring sides. Myler bits: these are designed to have more of the bit showing at the corners of the mouth, and can be quite loose in the hand. Fleshy lips: Big, smoochable fleshy lips can also be a little more difficult to fit the bit. Loose rings, while they offer the extra room, can cause pinching and chaffing on soft, flabby lips. D-rings and eggbutts are fantastic for the fleshier lips. Snaffles: these are the most commonly used bits.
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They’re cheap, light weight, and come in so many sizes, thicknesses, lengths and various metals . Leverage: the curb action asks for the head to come up. Gag: Cheek straps run through the bit, and attaches to the reins (running gag). Bitless: Self-explanatory. There are various styles of bitless bridles, with various focuses of pressure, depending on where you want the pressure to be applied. Majority of them are focused on poll and jaw pressure. Mullen mouth: Focus’ the pressure on the tongue. Lozenge (double jointed): pressure onto the tongue and bars of the mouth.
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But at the end of the day, they are the ones with the metal in their mouths, and it comes down to our riding and our choice on how much rein aid we use. This is only the very beginning of what we can do to help ensure our horses are
Spregner: offers tongue clearance, and is shaped to the mouth .These also come in various thickness’. Waterford: Auto fits to the mouth – there is nothing for them to ‘lean’ on. Knowledge is power – no longer can we just pick any old bit for our horses to work in, we know that there is so much more detail that goes into choosing what to put in our horses mouths. It is not an exact science, and some horses don’t “follow the bitting rules” and will prefer to be worked in something that we may not feel is perfect. They will tell us if they are happy or not, but we need to open our minds and accept their opinions.
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WA Equestrian Magazine
Microchipping Is Important Micro chipping your horse can make proving their
horse can give you peace of mind and security that if
identity and ownership easier, providing identity and
your horse is stolen or goes missing their identity and
proof of registration at large events quicker and is a fail
ownership can always be proved.
proof way of giving your horse identification without the risk of it fading or being changed – which can happen with identification methods like branding.
Serpentine Veterinarian Donna Colvin explained that it is a good idea to microchip competition horses but micro chipping is not limited to registered com-
So have you ever considered getting your horse micro
petition horses – anyone can get their horse micro
chipped? A microchip is an identifying implant, no big-
chipped.“Having a horse micro chipped makes proving
ger than a grain of rice, placed under the skin of your
their identity much easier because the chip can simply
horse. The implant uses radio frequency identification
be scanned for identification and the information on
technology which allows your horses information to be
the chip won’t fade or become hard to read like a brand
uploaded into a data base so that they can be identi-
can,” she said. “It also provides more insurance that a
fied by anyone who scans the chip.
horse’s identity can be proven if it is stolen because
Micro chipping is compulsory for race horses, horses officially registered with Equestrian Australia (EA) or registered as a member of a stud. Certain disciplines
changing the information on a microchip is much harder than changing other identification – it is much easier to change a brand than information on a microchip.
also require horses to be micro chipped if they are to
“Micro chipping horses, especially competition horse’s
compete, for example a horse must be registered and
that are worth more money, provides owners with
micro chipped if they are competing at 1.05m or above
the safety of knowing their horses can be identified as
in show jumping or eventing. Micro chipping your
theirs. “Micro chipping is also a quick and easy way of
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bit upset so a light anaesthetic can be used to calm them down. “Infections can occur if the injection site is not cleaned properly but this is really rare, as long as the area is properly cleaned with betadine wash before the needle is used and wiped over with alcohol swabs afterwards the chances of infections are very slim. “There can also be some bleeding at the infection site, as can happen with any needle, but applying pressure to the area with a gauze stops the bleeding after a few minutes so it is not something to worry about.” Donna said that if you want to get your horse micro chipped you can call your local veterinarian to enquire about booking the procedure and it is always best to use a veterinarian you know and trust before going through with any procedures on your horse. Racing and Wagering Western Australia (RWWA) veterinarian Judith Medd said micro chipping is a permanent way of identifying horses. proving a horse’s identification and registration details at
“Basically micro chipping provides a permanent, individual
a competition. ”At the bigger competitions and races it is
form of identification for a horse,” she said. “When scanned
much easier for stewards to line horses up and scan their mi-
each chip produces a unique number for that horse which
crochips for identification and proof they are eligible to com-
can be searched using a database to find the horses identi-
pete rather than going through piles of paper works during
fication and ownership. “If horses are lost, for example in the
the registration process. “Microchips are also useful during
recent floods in Queensland, then they can be reunited with
drug testing and swabbing because the horses identifica-
their owners once identified by scanning their microchip
tion can be scanned rather than written out by hand.“The
and linking this number to the owners contact details on the
microchip contains information such as the owner’s details
database. “Also for competitions like racing, micro chipping
and the horse’s information such as its registered name,
makes it easy to scan the horse and ensure that the correct
markings, gender, branding, colour and so on.”
horse is being presented to race. “In Western Australia only
Donna said that the process of micro chipping a horse is quick, simple and doesn’t cause them any pain. “Basically the microchip is no bigger than a grain of rice and it is injected under the horse’s skin on the left hand side of its neck,” she said. “The microchip is inserted in the horse’s neck half way along its crest, between its poll and withers, using a two and a half to three centimetre needle. “The needle is inserted perpendicular to the horse’s neck and then injects the microchip, which has a glass case around it, under the skin.“There are generally no risks with the procedure and most horse don’t seem to take much notice about the
registered veterinarians are authorized to implant microchips in horses.” Therefore micro chipping your horse is important because it gives horse’s permanent identification and proof of ownership and it also provides quick and easy proof that your horse is eligible to compete in your chosen discipline. So if you haven’t considered getting your horse micro chipped before, maybe now is the time. To most of us our horses are priceless so if we can give them a faultless method of identification through a procedure as simple as micro chipping then why not give your local vet a call.
needle but there are the occasional cheeky ones that get a www.waequestrianmagazine.com.au
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WA Equestrian Magazine
Ringmaster - Don Chippe
By Sophie Ransom & Kelly Dunn
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Perth Royal Show Photos Waequestrian.smugmug.com
There are men of a certain age who can wear a tweed jacket and impossibly clean must-be-new-from-the-box Akubra like a birthright. Don Chipper is one such man. Add in a neatly trimmed grey mustache and official looking badges (no doubt hand-minted by a founding member of the CWA) and you have the vision of calm, confident authority. While he is dressed the part, I can happily share that it was ‘confident authority’ part that is the reason he was elected to the job he fulfilled this year for the first time. The job with undoubtedly the worlds coolest title. Let’s face it.. “Ringmaster” has to be up there with “Dolphin Trainer” and “Willy Wonka’s Apprentice” as far as cool fac-
tor goes and I was very curious to meet the man behind the title. I didn’t expect him to answer the door with long black boots, a red tail coat and twirling his black pointed mustache ends, but I guess I was slightly miffed there wasn’t even a a hint of glitter in the room! Don showed me to the trophy room to have a chat, where it was a bit quieter, but a whole lot more glittery! There were many trophies, not all of them for the horse events, but so much history and so many stories sitting right there, waiting to be received by excited victorious hands. I read some of the names and dates engraved and felt the little thrill I get whenever I hear the words “Royal Show.”
Don who is a Funeral Director by profession, became involved with the RAS about three years ago when he was invited and voted onto the committee. This is his first year as ringmaster himself but he follows an impressive family tradition. Don’s father Donald Chipper Snr was Ringmaster in the 50’s and 60’s, and his Uncle Stephen Chipper was Ringmaster during the 30’s, all three men have presided over the Perth RAS. The job of ringmaster is a tough one. His role is to oversee every little thing that goes on in the main arena. Anything and everything from horse events to motorbike entertainment to alpacas and the grand parade. While he is well supported by a fabulous ground crew and office staff, Don says the toughest and most important job
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WA Equestrian Magazine
For Growing Bones
38
It’s never too early to start feeding NRG Calcium
One of the most important minerals for all horses, yet so often forgotten. Bones and cartilage need constant Calcium replacement . . . good reading at www.nrgteam.com.au and click on calcium bucket.
FOR OLDER BONES IT IS ALWAYS IMPORTANT TO KEEP FEEDING CALCIUM NRG CALCIUM . . . WITH MAGNESIUM AND SELENIUM
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nrgcalciumad.indd 1
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Photo By Suzie Bloxsidge-Kennedy is to make sure the time schedule is being adhered to.
was a first, and a welcome change from tradition.
He is also responsible for securing judges for all the horse events from interstate and said that this year the judges had been particularly pleased with the quality of horses on display at the Perth Royal.
Don himself was an avid equestrian competitor in the 60’s, including the Royal, when focusing mainly on hacking and Show Horse events. He was also a showjumper though in that department admits to being very enthusiastic, but not particularly good!
Don said that he himself was so impressed with how much time and devotion the owners put into their horses. Up early preparing and caring for their animals and presenting themselves wonderfully as well. Competitors I spoke to during the week mentioned that they had seen Don around the stables and he had spoken to some of them enquiring after the horses and the events they were in. They said it
As an ex-competitor I was interested to know which event he would class as his favourite. Without a pause he declared the winner the Pony 6-Bar jumping, for the sheer athleticism the ponies display, often jumping much higher than a bigger horse could.
Initially I was a little hesitant to go and speak with the Ringmaster. I will admit to being a first-time journo, and the man is busy running a Royal Show. I didn’t want to waste his time, or sound like a half-wit. But in true man-wearing-tweed style, Don was extremely gracious. He even agreed to me taking a photo with all the trophies and I got a couple with a serious face. Then I asked him to pretend that he’d won all the trophies and out came a great smile. I hope that next year will see Don Chipper walking about the the stables again, chatting with people about their horses. And if you’re in the Pony 6 Bar... give a little wave up to the offices over the stables.
Purchase our Special PERTH ROYAL SHOW EDITION www.waequestrianmagazine.com.au Printed copies only
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18yr old (now turning 20) Standardbred Saint’s Injury, Owner Cynthia has no idea how this happened, He stripped his leg down to the cannon bone. At the time Cynthia was 6 months pregnant! Originally using honey and prenoderm as treatment then I found a product called Proud aid, “by god I swear by it.
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He never needed the surgery and some 18 months later I jumped on him for the first time and I thought he would go lame, but he was rearing to go and was sound as the next day.” Said Cynthia
WA Equestrian Magazine
Dangerous Trees What makes them deadly to your horses and livestock? A tree filled paddock where either your horse or livestock roam can be a beautiful sight, however there are a few instances where trees and livestock don’t mix. In some cases, fruit or nut bearing trees can contribute to colic when animals consume their produce and in other cases branches or uprooted trees can also cause injuries to your animals. The worst dangers however, arise with the few tree species that are toxic enough to sicken or kill your horses and/or livestock. There is no one particular compound or single factor that can be attributed to a plant’s toxicity. A plants toxicity is determined by a number of factors, including, plant species, plant health and stage of growth, soil type, season and weather. The growth stage of a plant has a significant effect on the amount of toxin your horses or livestock will ingest if consumed. In some plants, the immature, new growth may be the most poisonous whilst in others the mature growth will be the most deadly. For example, plants such as larkspur are the most toxic when young, which is also when they appear the most succulent to grazing animals. On the other hand, the leaves of the red maple are not toxic when green but poisonous when dried or shed. There are also many plants that have equal toxicity throughout, with little variation between stems, leaves and fruits. Plants also vary in palatability and thus their level of appeal to grazing animals. In pastures, there is an order of palatability that changes with the seasons, for example, animals will actively pick out the less mature and tenderer forages. Palat-
By Angela Vordermeier
ability decrease as plants mature and as a result may cause selective grazing and overgrazing by horses and livestock. Once the desirable young forage is gone, the less palatable forage, including poisonous plants, begins to look more appealing and thus is more likely to be eaten. With horse in particular, selectivity results in spot grazing which tends to create spaces for less desirable species, such as weeds, to take root. If given a choice, animals will always tend to select the less toxic plants, however grazing animals will readily graze on unpalatable and possibly toxic forage if forced by hunger to do so, and unfortunately, toxic side effects may not necessarily stop them from eating a certain plant. The amount and part of the toxic plant ingested also has a direct effect on the duration and severity of plant poisoning effects. The figure most commonly cited as being potentially lethal if ingested is five to ten precent of the animal’s body weight over a period of two to ten weeks. In theory, nearly anything can be toxic to an animal if enough of it is consumed, though fortunately most animals will not gorge themselves on less palatable foods. The most common way that toxins affect animals negatively is through direct digestion. If an animal has ingested a poisonous plant, grave or critical symptoms may appear in as little as a few hours or as long as several months after ingestion of the toxic plant. Toxins often accumulate in the animal’s organs and tissues and this can result in symptoms appearing in winter when the animal is on uncontaminated hay rather www.waequestrianmagazine.com.au
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Love your family & Love your horses than the previous summer when the plant was eaten. Certain toxins will also reduce the digestibility of other food eaten with the poisonous plant, resulting in the reduced nutritional value of the overall forage to the animal. These toxic compounds may tie up nutrients, kill digestive microbes or enzymes, or reduce eating habits. Therefore, even if the toxin does not directly poison the animal, it may still indirectly cause immediate or eventual systemic or digestive damage. Livestock factors such as species, diet selection, body condition and previous grazing history are also contributing factors as to whether or not poisoning occurs and its severity. Young animals and those not bred in the area are generally more at risk than adults and those who are familiar with the area. This is because with many poisonous plants local animals will typically have some learned aversion. As result, local livestock in a paddock with a particular poisonous plant usually won’t eat it whereas newly introduced livestock may be more inclined to sample a taste. Below are examples of a couple of plant species that may appear harmless enough when looked at, but are toxic to your horses and livestock when ingested: The Cooktown ironwood tree features rounded leaves that are two to four centimetres in diameter and can grow up to fifteen meters tall. Their flowers are cream-coloured and the seed pods are flat and ten to fifteen centimetres long. All parts of this plant
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are poisonous and can be fatal even if only a small amount is ingested. Animals in yards have been known to eat parts of this plant when it can be reached through the rails Whitewood is a small tree that grows to approximately six meters high with an open spreading canopy. Its leaves have a smooth waxy grey-green surface and consist of one to three pairs of well-spaced leaflets. Whitewood flowers during spring to early summer and produce ‘propeller-like’ fruit that is yellowish-green and consists of two or three one-seeded fruitlets, each with a membranous wing about three to four centimetres long. These trees mainly grow on open plains and alluvial flats as they prefer coarse sands and clay loams. They are useful for shade and shelter but their seeds are poisonous to horses, cattle and sheep. Symptoms of poisoning include, staggering gait, oedema of the eyelids, glassy eyes, a shivering of the shoulder muscles, and death. Prevention is the best cure for dealing with poisonous plants. By ensuring that your horses and livestock have adequate hay and/ or healthy pasture for grazing, avoiding overgrazing and learning to recognise poisonous plants you can minimise the risk to your animals. Be mindful if your animals begin to act strangely and if you suspect that poisoning has occurred, collect sample of the plants you suspect has caused the poisoning and contact you veterinarian as soon as possible.
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r o f s e t a R ning i a r T f f o ne i z 10% a g a M ian r t s e u q E WA Readers Contact Us Edward 0429 104 221 Joanne 0428 899 308 Email: admin@bchorsetraining.com.au Website: www.bchorsetraining.webs.com WHAT WE OFFER
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Fire Safety
In Rural Area’s By Rachel Boros
This summer - clean up and stay safe - FESA Guidelines to stay and fight! Summer is here and that means fire safety in rural areas is a hot topic again. Australia is a remarkable country, and here in Western Australia, we are lucky to live amongst such beauty as the landscapes of rural WA. However bushfires are just an inevitable fact of life in rural WA. Bushfires can be frightening even for locals who see them all the time, and authorities urge residents and businesses to be prepared to have the best chance of coming through bushfire season unscathed. Bushfires are so common in Australia because of our large fuel-loaded areas. Our bushland is dry and many ‘residential’ areas have bushland nearby and undergrowth. Bushfires can start for several reasons: Arson : Deliberate fires started by arsonists Prescribed burning: Department of Environment & Conservation carrying out back burns Accidental fire: People accidently and unintentionally starting a fire (BBQ out of control, machinery sparks) Ignoring fire bans: People ignoring fire bans in areas of bushland, something as simple as a dropped cigarette but can start a wildfire www.waequestrianmagazine.com.au
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Arson – deliberate fires started by arsonists
• Prescribed burning – Department of Environment & Conservation carrying out back burns • Accidental fire – people accidently and unintentionally starting a fire (BBQ out of control, machinery sparks) • Ignoring fire bans – people ignoring fire bans in areas of bushland, something as simple as a dropped cigarette but can start a wildfire Fire is a natural element, just like air and water, and fire in the right circumstances is vital for vegetation renewal and ecological management. This is why prescribe burning is often carried out, to keep the fuel low and try to precent unplanned and out of control fires. However the fires tarts, whether through prescribed burns or more sinister reasons such as arson, there is always a risk of things getting beyond the control of fire fighters. Sadly, many fires start off small but there is a wind change and the fire quickly gets out of control. In the dry, hot bushland, fire can spread so quickly that significant property damage, and even loss of human life, is a real possibility. If the wind changes and pushes a prescribed burn or any other fire towards residential areas then people must act fast, and be prepared.
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FESA Guidelines to stay safe Take the time to sit down with family and loved ones and map out a survival plan. Talk about different scenarios, and who would have what role. Make sure everyone feels calm and prepared. Also discuss how you can help others. Do you have elderly neighbours who might require assistance if a bushfire does come close? Are there pets or children to consider? How will you all stay in touch if not together? The Fire and Emergency Serves Authority (FESA) offer substantial advice to those living or working in rural areas to protect themselves against bushfires. FESA encourage people to be aware of the “Prepare. Act. Survive” strategy. Prepare for fire and make sure your home and business are protected. Act on any fire warnings. Keep an eye on fire ratings and then act fast to put your preparations into action. FESA warn against the “wait and see” strategy. Survive by understanding the fire rating system and by hav-
ing a plan if fire does occur. So how can residents clean up and stay safe this summer and every summer? FESA advises the following: • Clean your gutters and rooftops. Ensure that leaves are cleared and metal guards are installed. • Sweep up leaves, debris and cuttings. Cut back trees and ensure any grassed area is cut short. • Check that your garden hoses can reach all around the home and the boundaries. Check that all hoses and pumps are working. Replace any broken parts immediately. • Check for any fire hydrants near your home that you can access or install your own. • Do not leave any tree lopping’s, rubbish or grass clippings near your property during fire season. • Fit wire mesh screens to windows and doors as many houses are lost through ember attack, not direct flame.
This checklist should be your bushfire survival guide. Read it. Print it out. Share with friends and family. FESA advises that residents carry out this check list early on, long before bush fire season arrives. Then repeat regularly during the fire season to ensure leaves and debris are always cleared. You never know when a bush fire might strike or turn your way, so you won’t always have time to get out and prepare the property.
alarm via a siren or text messaging systems. The radio can be a great source of vital information during a bushfire. However, do not simply rely on these warnings. There is not always time. This is why it is so important that residents are always on top of the safety maintenance and do not leave things until the last minute.
The guidelines are, as you can see, fairly simple although some tasks will require more effort than others. It is essential that you carry out the complete checklist and take the threat of fire seriously.
You can also work out the best ways to spread the news to family and neighbours, especially those most at risk such as elderly or children. You also need to consider pets or livestock: where will they take shelter and how will you evacuate them if necessary?
Evacuate to safe areas early
Stay and Fight
Plan your evacuation route too. If you choose to leave, then leave early. Prepare your house as best you can and leave whilst still safe to do so. Plan where you will go, which route you will take and what stock you might need to take with you.
You have to make the decision over whether to prepare the house then leave while it is still safe to do so, or stay and fight the fire. If you must stay and fight then follow these guidelines set out by FESA:
In order to plan effectively you need to be aware of local emergency warnings. Find out if the local council will raise an
As the fire approaches: •
Put on protective clothing
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Alert neighbours and bring www.waequestrianmagazine.com.au
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pets inside. •
Make sure all doors and windows are closed.
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Fill baths with water, sinks and buckets too.
• Wet some towels and put them along and drafts are crevices • dows
Remove curtains and pull furniture away from win-
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Remove any flammable furniture
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Start sprinklers and/or fire pump
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Hose down the outside of the house
strongest communities and sense of family. It is this community spirit that sees people through tough times, such as bush fires. If homes are destroyed then those residents need somewhere to live, but also support and motivation to get their lives back on track. After a bushfire, there may be significant damage to council property, community areas such as shops, parks and so on. Residents have to carry on with live as normal as possible. There is usually government support after large bushfires and communities rally around each other to take care of everyone.
Once you have done all of this, go inside the house and bring all hoses and buckets with you. Check inside for spot fires. Keep hydrated; try to drink plenty of water.
FESA will have been coordinating the clearance of safe areas and notifying residents. However, FESA advises that you are still cautious and watch out for any danger such as fallen power lines, low branches, fallen trees, and damaged infrastructure. Take care when driving too as there may be emergency workers still working on the roads, or debris on the road. The hours, days, weeks after a bushfire require some patience until things get back to normal.
After the fire has passed:
Preventing Fire in the First Instance
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Check outside once safe to do so
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Check any spot fires.
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Notify family and authorities that you are okay
FESA also offers advice on preventing accidental fire. Common sense is a big part of fire prevention. This includes taking note of fire bans during summer periods. Also, be aware that the smallest spark can ignite a large fire in a dry, fuel-loaded area. So be sure to dispose of cigarette buts properly, do not throw them on the ground. Sparks from machinery, or cars, have also been known to start accidental bushfires. So when carrying out any work which may produce sparks, clear the area well before hand and take cautionary methods. Another cause of bushfires sadly can be arson. This is where someone deliberately starts a fire. Research shows there are several reasons why someone might do this. For a kick; for revenge; for the excitement. Either way, it is extremely dangerous as human life can, and has been lost due to arson starting a bush fire. Obviously, it is also illegal. Be aware in your community. If you see or notice anything suspicious, report it. Fire safety is everyone’s responsibility.
Managing the fire also requires you to wear the correct clothing. You and everyone around you should be wearing long sleeved shirts and choose material with natural fibres. Same goes for long pants to protect your legs. Wear sturdy leather footwear and a hat. Also, goggles may be necessary to protect your eyes from flying embers. It’s worth buying some dust masks with a filter to protect you breathing in too much smoke. This is where your earlier planning will come into effect. If you are not alone, then everyone should have a job to do. This is not the time to send people off while you stay to fight the fire. Stay together and follow the instructions as above. Make sure you have a comprehensive first aid kit readily available too. Maybe even two: one inside and one outside. This means that any small issues can quickly be remedied and will not affect your survival plans. Also ensure you have a survival kit ready. Include the following items: Batteries, torch, drinking water, safe storage box, wool blankets, battery-powered radio and protective clothing. Have this already made up so you can grab it quickly in a real emergency. It is these things that can save lives, so plan ahead and ensure you have everything you need. Moving On Threatening bushfires are sadly a usual occurrence in rural areas. On a positive note, it is these rural areas that often have the www.waequestrianmagazine.com.au
Safe, fun summer Fires can be loud and smelly. Try not to let this put you off your plan. Stay strong and believe in the plan you have to carry out. Hesitation can cost lives, so follow through with all the advice and you have a much better chance of keeping your property and your life. For further information please contact: 132 500 for SES assistance 1300 657 209 for emergency information 000 for emergency assistance www.dfes.wa.gov.au
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