Elite Equestrian magazine July August issue 2020 by Elite Equestrian LLC

ELITE

EQUESTRIAN Celebrating The Equestrian Lifestyle

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ICELAND For Active Riders

S tyle

Summer

SUN SAFETY For Your Horse

Volume 20 Issue 4 Complimentary

KEVIN BABINGTON

His & Hers Exclusive Interview www.EliteEquestrianMagazine.com

BITLESS Bridles

DREAM MAKER FARM Call Today!

FULL SERVICE FOR ALL MAKES & MODELS

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Saddle racks, bridle hooks Hydralic Jack Side ramp Rear ramp Extra tall and extra wide

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ELITE

Contents

EQUESTRIAN

July/Aug 2020

Celebrating The Equestrian Lifestyle

28 Fashion • Home • Art

Equine Health

20 MUST HAVES

44 Sun Safety For Horses

22 SUMMER Fashion

46 EMPOWER

24 EXCEPTIONALLY EQUESTRIAN

48 STALL

For you!

Great Looks

Digestive Balance

Cool Stuff For You This Summer

Make Them Comfortable

26 EQUINE ART

Great Book!

HIS & HERS Kevin Babington

32 Art & Antiques with Dr. Lori

54 SOX

For Summer Sores

Corona Virus & Poodle Collectables

34 BOOKS

Donkey Travels & Horsemanship

Training, Tack & Showing 56 BIT OR NO BIT Bitless Bridles

36 MUST HAVES

58 8 Saddle Fitting Method Myths

38 MUST HAVES

62 WESTERN DRESSAGE

For your horse

For your farm

Preparing to Show

Travel 40 ICELAND For the active rider

52 MOBILIZING EXERCISES

Catherine Klibanoff

www.EliteEquestrianMagazine.com

More 38 TRAILERS

Safety Considerations

64 OPTIONS

For Horse Trailers

70 TACK BOX

Your source for services & great retail finds!

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ELITE

Main Ofﬁce, Ocala, Florida: 352-304-8938 www.EliteEquestrianMagazine.com info@EliteEquestrian.us

EQUESTRIAN

PUBLISHER Bill Vander Brink Bill@EliteEquestrian.us

Celebrating The Equestrian Lifestyle

Published since 2008 Riding a horse is not a gentle hobby, to be picked up and laid down like a game of solitaire. It is a grand passion. Ralph Waldo Emerson

For Media Kit including Print & Social Media Packages email: info@EliteEquestrian.us View current and all previous issues on our web site: www.EliteEquestrianMagazine.com

ELITE EQUESTRIAN MAGAZINE is ranked

7 out of 15 WORLDWIDE Equine Magazines To Watch In 2020 According To Feedspot blog

ADVERTISING Advertising Sales, N.E.Region: Kathy Dress 610-420-9964 kathy@dressmedia.us Advertising Sales, S.E. Region Karen Eagle 352-812-1142 Advertising Sales, National: Diane Holt 713-408-8114 diane@eliteequestrian.us

EDITORIAL STAFF Editor-in-Chief: Noelle Vander Brink Art & Antiques Editor: Dr. Lori Verderame Equine Art Editor: Jeanne Chisholm Fashion Editor: LA Sokolowski Legal Editor: Avery S. Chapman,Esquire Saddle Specialist Editor: Jochen Schleese CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Kim Miller Stacey Adams Lynn Palm Alessandra Deerinck Ray Petterson Kyle Kapustka Deb Rusden Abby Keegan Tom Scheve

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Jump Media Dr. Lori Staff

GRAPHICS Fran Sherman

ELITE

EQUESTRIAN Celebrating The Equestrian Lifestyle

On the cover... A rider enjoys a brisk gallop on a beach in Iceland.

ICELAND For Active Riders

S tyle

Summer

See story pg 40 for photo credits.

SUN SAFETY For Your Horse

Volume 20 Issue 4 Complimentary

KEVIN BABINGTON

His & Hers Exclusive Interview

BITLESS Bridles

www.EliteEquestrianMagazine.com

Copyright © 2020 Elite Equestrian is a registered trademark owned by Elite Equestrian LLC. No article, photo, or part of this publication may be reproduced wholly or in part without written permission of the publisher. Management reserves the right to approve or refuse any advertiser or contribution for any reason. Editorial information deemed reliable, but not veriﬁed or guaranteed. EE does not endorse any product or advertiser and is not responsible for accuracy of info/opinions provided by advertisers or article content. Photographs are provided by editorial contributors who assume responsibility for permission of use.

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ORGEOUS West Side Paso Robles Property

Rancho Robles is an amazing, private property on approximately 196.4 acres in the WILLIAMSON ACT with close to 90 to 100 gently rolling acres available for planting vines, olives, hops or another crop. The main home is situated on a lovely hill surrounded by well groomed native forests. The stunning and spacious single level home consists of 3 bedrooms and 4 baths, a beautiful foyer, a large formal living room, den, office, master suite with private office, formal dining room and a kitchen with full pantry. The master bathroom features two water closets, two showers, a massive tub, a walk in closet and two other closets. There is plenty of storage throughout the home with a very well placed laundry room/mud room off the back door and near the kitchen. There is a large covered patio overlooking the infinity pool and a gorgeous view over the trees and out to the south eastern hills. There are many wild flowers and gorgeous seasonal fauna as well as landscaping around the home. Wild turkeys and deer roam the property which is fully fenced and groomed. Former horse training facility with a 22 stall barn, grooming barn, barn office, bathrooms and an a�ached “House”/meeting room with office, kitchene�e and bathroom. This horse facility was owned and operated by Robert Gay and very well known horseman, competitor and trainer and is in excellent condition as a horse facility. There is a round pen, arena, horse grooming with wash racks, pens and fully fenced/cross fenced pastures. There is a small one bedroom home located in a private and serene se�ing not far from the barn and arena area. This property has potential for vineyards, a winery, wine tasting destination and could easily serve as a wedding or party venue. It is private and secluded and located right next to Pasolivo and across from Whalebone winery. Information not verified.

$5,995,000 Offered by Monica King lic # 01229478 at Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate-Haven Properties.

http://www.8800vineyard.com • www.monicaking.com • 805.550.0603 www.EliteEquestrianMagazine.com

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MUST �� COMFY Jeans Bullet Blues jeans are made in the USA with American made material. Lots of colors and designs for your personal style. See our ad page 27 BulletBluesCa.com

COLORFUL Canine

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Realizing that many of our dogs spend a lot of time ‘roughing it’ on mountain trails and in rivers, a tail we could wag has created a great looking collar with all the durability and practicality an owner could hope for. Machine washable premium nylon and handwoven cotton with a practical side release buckle and solid brass hardware.

Custom Boots

Deniro Boots, recognized for our custom dressage boots. We ship all over the USA. See our ad page 71 www.GeeGeeEquine.com

Great Finds You never know what unique items you’ll ﬁnd at Good Apple Equine Consignment. These boots are oneof-a-kind and have even been on display in a museum. Stop by and see what treasure is waiting for you. We have everything from saddles to books ... all equine related.

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SOURCE micronutri-

Years ago, SOURCE founder, 105 Acre EQUESTRIAN’S DREAM! ents withstood the

Susan Domizi, competed her even�ng horse, Hull, a talented, horse-but a hard keeper with poor hoof condi-

info

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This beautiful 105-acre property in Lindstrom, MN is ready for the horse enthusiast of any breed. Potential for riding trails, riding info arena, development for new stables. Lush green pastures with picture-perfect ponds and nostal�tle gic farm home that has been tastefully renovated. Features 3 bedrooms, 2 baths and a classic open layout that oﬀers unobstructed breathtaking nature views. Perfect for the hobby farmer, horse lover, nature lover, organic farmer or sportsman this estate is a great place to call home. 105-acre EQUESTRIAN DREAM, $950,000

RE/MAX Synergy

Bob Muske Office: 651-982-1233 Direct: 612-919-3353 920 W. Broadway Ave, Forest Lake, MN

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ummer

Classic looks for at the show, or out on the town.

FASHION

Hayman & Hare Tweed Poncho

Equetech Ameila Sleeveless Polo A gorgeous sleeveless performance polo, with a feminine rufﬂed satin collar, decorated with stunning rhinestones gems. This shirt really sets you apart from the classic polo, perfect with jeans and at training clinics. Machine washable. Available in Grey. XS - XXL RRP: £29.95

www.equetech.com

A timeless, elegant tweed wrap poncho, available in one size that ﬁts all shapes and sizes! Made from top quality English wool. One size, RRP: £93.95

NEW!Secretariat Signet Ring from Jane Heart Jewelry 50 years ago a stunning blaze-faced chestnut colt was born at The Meadow in Virginia. Named “Secretariat”, his record-se�ng sweep of the Triple Crown races three years later cemented his place as Horse of the Century and endeared him forever to racing fans and horse-lovers alike. Now, Jane Heart Jewelry is proud to introduce their exclusive likeness of Secretariat as a sterling silver signet ring! He gazes forward wearing his racing bridle, checkered blinkers and famous “look of eagles”, just as he did on the TIME Magazine cover released in June of 1973. This magniﬁcent piece can be worn by everyone and measures 5/8” by 3/4” which is the size of a dime. The ring is available in either plain sterling or with the blinkers hand-enameled in Meadow Stables blue. Available in sizes 10 - 12 with prices star�ng at $215.

EQUINE Fashion

A por�on of the proceeds from every purchase beneﬁts the Secretariat Founda�on, which supports various equine chari�es in the Thoroughbred racing community. In addi�on to the signet ring, Secretariat licensed jewelry is available as pendants, bracelets, earrings, and cuﬀ links. A vermeil pendant is available also with the look of 14k gold. Fans of Jane Heart no�ce the exquisite a�en�on to detail and accuracy of the designs. Jane o�en hears the comment, “It looks just like MY horse!”. The cra�manship is unparalleled as every piece is cast by her master silversmith and hand-polished, resulting in horse jewelry that keeps its beauty forever. Jane’e designs are meant to be treasured and worn with pride. The Secretariat Signet Ring is a unique and special way to celebrate your love of horses, along with the most famous Triple Crown winner to ever grace a racetrack. Order yours today at www.janeheart.com Secretariat Collec�on.

EE 22

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Exceptionally EQUESTRIAN ACTIVE Wear

Yana Hoodie and Amina Under Cap

Summer is here, and we’ve discovered some great ﬁnds just for you! Enjoy

CUSTOM Caps Karen Morris is an interna�onally acclaimed hat designer and milliner. She started her line, Karen Morris Millinery, in 2011. Karen studied millinery under famous milliners to perfect her cra� and is dedicated to pris�ne cra�smanship and a�en�on to detail. Her hats have been worn by celebri�es including Rebel Wilson and Nicki Minaj, and at events around the world, including the Kentucky Derby, Royal Ascot, and to meet the Queen of England. All hats are made to order and can be customized to speciﬁc color, shape and size needs.

kmhats.com

PERFECT Protection

• Oversized fit • Integrated long sleeve shirt for full coverage • Integrated turtleneck with security snap bu�ons • Dolman sleeve style, allowing for a more comfortable fit • Contras�ng fabric on waist for a slimming look • Op�onal drawstring for adjustable fi�ng • Thumb holes • Connects to Amina Under Cap through 3 loops that are located on the inside of the hood Under Cap Special design features: • Non-slip velvet elas�c in front for a secure fit • Adjustment strap in back of cap to �ghten or or loosen the cap • Three buckles are located on the cap: connects to the Chloé Hood Scarf, Ava Wrap, and Yana Hoodie

An equestrian’s hands are o�en put through the ringer while spending the day at the stables. Constantly gripping reins and spending long hours cleaning stalls or grooming horses can cause hands to quickly become calloused and cracked, even with gloves on. And when you mix in the seasonal dry heat and constant handwashing and sani�zer usage due to COVID-19 you are le� with sore mi�s that can make it diﬃcult to do your daily tasks and ac�vi�es. Before and a�er spending the day at the stable, protect and heal your hands with Gloves In A Bo�le SPF 15. The shielding lo�on bonds with the skin to make a protec�ve layer that lasts up to four hours and its unique formula helps rebuild the skin so it can hold its own natural oils and moisture again while reducing skin irrita�on from over washing and overuse. Gloves In A Bo�le also contains SPF15 to help prevent sunburn during those long hours outdoors and won’t leave your hands greasy like other lo�ons so you can con�nue to have a ﬁrm grip on your equipment.

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The Promise A most unusual gift of love

The Poem Reads:

“Across the years I will walk with you - in deep, green forests; on shores of sand: and when our time on earth is through, in heaven, too, you will have my hand. “ Dear Reader: The drawing you see above is called The Promise. It is completely composed of dots and ink. After writing the poem, I with a quill pen and placed thousands of these dots, one at a time, to create this gift in honor of my youngest brother and his wife. Now, I have decided to offer The Promise to those who share and value it’s sentiment. Each litho is numbered and signed by hand and precisely captures the detail of the drawing. As a wedding or anniversary gift, or simply as a standard for your own home, I believe you will ﬁnd it most appropriate. Measuring 14” x 16”, it is available either fully-framed in a subtle copper tone with hand-cut double mats of pewter and rust at $145* or in the mats alone at $105*. Please add $18.95 for insured shipping and packing. Your satisfaction is completely guaranteed. My best wishes are with you.

Sextonart Inc • P.O. Box 581 • Rutherford CA 94573 • 415.989.1630 • www.RobertSexton.com All major credit cards are welcome. Please call between 10 am and 5pm Paciﬁc Standard time, 7 days a week. Checks are also accepted, please include phone number. * CA residents please include 8% sales tax www.EliteEquestrianMagazine.com

CATHLEEN KLIBANOFF Contemporary Equestrian and Wildlife Art Creating art allows me to indulge in intense intimacy while exploring my independent ideas and ideals. I’m fascinated with the chemistry of humankind and nature, with a particular affinity for metal (or metallic) and wood. Being a self-taught artist, I can’t hide behind technique. I strive to be an honest and emotional storyteller, albeit naive. There is an avalanche of texture in my work to reflect the layers of my personal journey, hills, and valleys. I’m interested in approaching a subject with the aged patina intact. The intimacy of my sculptural portraits derives from the fact that they are unapologetically flawed. The avalanche of texture does not attempt to hide inconsistencies, but rather a wabisabi tribute— seeing the beauty in the imperfect, impermanent and incomplete. The portrait is both model and message– a statement of belonging and intention made visible.

Black Beauty: Aqua Resin, Duo Matrix Resin, Acrylic

EQUINE Art

Dressed To Impress: Aqua Resin, Duo Matrix Neo, Acrylic on Wood Panel

Golden Gelding 1: Aqua Resin, Duo Matrix Neo, Acrylic, Gold Metal Foiling 26

Lion: Epoxy Resin andAcrylic on Wood Panel

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Golden Boy: Mixed Media Sculpture

Golden Gelding 1 Front view: Aqua Resin, Duo Matrix Neo, Acrylic, Gold Metal Foiling

Wellington Place 13532 Fountain View Boulevard Wellington FL 33414, USA

845-505-1147 â&#x20AC;¢ 561-557-3747 www.ChisholmGallery.com

EE www.EliteEquestrianMagazine.com

HIS

HERS

RIDING FORWARD with Dianna & Kevin Babington

with L.A. Sokolowski

“Inside leg to outside rein.” We learn as riders to see both aids as equally vital to creating and maintaining balance in our horse. That equestrian synergy could be attributed to Dianna and Kevin Babington, who celebrated their 24th wedding anniversary in April while maintaining forward motion at the uppermost echelons of their sport and growing closer with every stride to their students and each other.

arlier in the spring,

when Horse Sport Ireland appointed Kevin to its High Performance Jumping Committee as a technical advisor to the Senior Jumping Programme (joining Irish Nations Cup rider, Cameron Hanley, and HSI director, Taylor Vard), he said, “I look forward to working alongside these great horsemen and to still be a part of this high level of jumping.”

“This is a beginning, not an end. His serving as an advisor, going in to an Olympic year, means a lot to him,” says Dianna, who has been at Kevin’s side since a jumping accident last August at the Hampton Classic Horse Show left the 51 year-old horseman dubbed, The Fighting Irishman, paralyzed below the shoulders. For now, Dianna has become Kevin’s legs for course walks with their riders but, make no mistake, the headset he wears to communicate with students girds his greatest, undamaged asset: his mind.

EQUINE Lifestyle

“The accident,” she says, “broke his body, not his horsemanship. Not his experience as a rider and trainer.” It has also built a formidable partnership in the show jumping tradition of such powerhouse couples as Katie and Henri (Prudent), or Mary and Frank (Chapot).

Kevin says he has always had complete conﬁdence in his longstanding assistant trainer and has watched her transition “with ease” into walking courses solo with clients: “She jumped at a pretty high level herself but was always a bit caught in my shadow, and focused on riding our sale and young horses at home. She did it all.” “I’ve never been to the Olympics,” Dianna says, “but you don’t have to have ridden in them to be a great trainer. It’s a different role.” “Now,” he says, “she is out in front and I couldn’t have a better partner. She has trained with the best and has been with me for 30 years. She can handle anything.”

Two Talents, One Team “Our students,” Dianna reports, “are saying they actually get more of his attention now because he is so focused! Growing up in an Irish community, his approach has always been about the horse, how to put it where it should be under the rider.” “I look at the rider and what they need to be doing to get their horse in balance,” she says. “For instance, there was a lesson where he was talking about where the horse’s shoulder needed to go, while I saw a rider who needed to rotate her pelvis and reframe her position!” As Dianna and Kevin have grown closer as a couple and as teachers, it has becoming increasingly important to the recovering horseman that others see what he sees in the rider by his side: How good Dianna is (and has been) as a professional equestrian and “fantastic” teacher. “He has a lot of confidence in what I do,” she says of the man she met and started training with three decades ago. “As life moves forward, we’ll figure it out.” They are shining as skilled coaches across the equitation, hunter, and jumper divisions. Each and every rider that comes to them seems to go on to success in their own right, from USHJA finals to first-places at Wellington, HITS and World Equestrian Center. Florida’s 2020 Winter Circuit concluded with Gwyneth earning the Potcreek Meadow Farm Junior Sportsmanship Trophy for “consistently demonstrating outstanding conduct, horsemanship, attitude, and courtesy appropriate for a competitor at the highest levels of the sport.” Prior recipients include Robert Matz, Victoria Colvin, and Lucy Deslauriers.

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Kevin at the Silver Oak Jumper Tournament, 2019

“This was the 20th anniversary and it is always an honor to present this award,” says Cara Anthony. “It is a culmination of classes and performances in and outside the ring, and many people, including gates, stewards, judges, trainers, ofﬁce staff, and riders, participate in the voting. When Cara presented the trophy, “Dianna was there, as was Marielle. Kevin was unable to as COVID-19 protocol was in place. Dianna said how proud Kevin was of Gwyneth and how sorry he was to miss it but he watched the live stream! The family was full of gratitude.” Babington family awards photo.

Riding in the Present Tense As Dianna continues to rebuild their business by teaching, training, riding and working with clients at all levels, Babington Mills products, including its dust-free bedding alternative (chopped straw with all ﬁnes and dust removed) is gaining traction with a growing network of barns and customers. “Having used the bedding for the ‘love of my life,’ Merlin, aka EuroStar,” says Jeff Papows, PhD., friend of the Babingtons and organizer of the Silver Oak Jumper Tournament, “it’s easy to keep clean, more absorbent, lighter, more biodegradable and devoid of dust, saving a ton of work. “Referrals [of Babington Mills products} to barns and feed stores, and your own orders, will help Kevin immensely.” Babington Mills forage-based feeds are free of corn, sugar, or molasses, and packed with vitamins, minerals, and pre-/ probiotics for horses at all ages and stages of performance.

“We would be hard pressed,” adds Saly Glassman, owner of Kevin’s 2004 Olympic partner, Carling King, “to invest in a person that would pay a better return than Kevin. He needs and deserves our support. He has given selflessly to us. Now it’s our turn, as a community, to reciprocate and show our gratitude.” “Kevin has come back to the industry and environment that he loves,” Dianna says. “He is completely in his element. He doesn’t see himself as a ‘former rider.’ He talks about riding in the present tense and brings that same energy to every lesson he gives now. We’re still in the first year after this injury and with me ‘in his holster’ he has a lot to contribute.’” With her legs and their hands on the reins to their future, both Babingtons are finding balance and moving forward. Find Kevin Babington, LLC at www.kevinbabington.com and on Facebook @kevinbabingtonllc.

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The

BRIDLE PATH Back

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Kevin Babington and Mark Q at the Great American Grand Prix, Ocala, FL March 2015. Photo by Elite Equestrian.

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Potcreek Junior Sportsmanship Award. Photo by Sportful.

Dianna and Kevin Babington

How You Can Help

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The Collectibles of

Coronavirus Art & An�ques by Dr. Lori By Lori Verderame

Over the last month or two amid Coronavirus, I have been busy with interviews about the value of stuff found in attics and basements prompted by the nationwide stay at home orders and home cleaning projects. I have been talking to folks nationwide who have emptied out closets and garages via video call appraisals using Zoom, Facetime, Skype, Facebook, etc. Recently, during a barrage of interviews by major media outlets—big city TV networks, the Washington Post, various online magazines -- I’ve been asked “What are the global pandemic collectibles that will be valuable?” As I told many reporters, the list may surprise you.

2020 Olympics mascot, Miraitowa, of the Tokyo games

rt and antiques REFLECT society.

I have been known to say on my YouTube.com/DrLoriV channel that art and antiques reﬂect society. With that in mind, the most impactful cultural event, worldwide, of 2020 is the spread of Coronavirus. Associated objects are many. Here are my picks for the most valuable Collectibles of Coronavirus… so, if you have them or if you can acquire them, save them in your favorite storage or display case as they will be the valuables of the future.

EQUINE Lifestyle

2020 Tokyo Olympic Collectibles I was lecturing in Tokyo in Fall 2019. I experienced many exhibits, events, and promotions there relating to the forthcoming Olympic games. As a result of Coronavirus, the 2020 Tokyo Olympic games have been cancelled, thus, all of the original 2020 souvenir items will be valuable as early as 2024 when the Olympics resume competition. Everything from t-shirts to Olympic pins, Tokyo 2020 Olympic paraphernalia will become valuable, rare, and sought after. Pay particular attention to the blue and white Anime-inspired mascot named Miraitowa and the newly introduced sports to the games. Do your best to collect 2020 Tokyo Olympic items and save them for a good return on investment. Thank you Heroes Action Figures Mattel introduced the #ThankyouHeroes line of 16 new action figures representing the people who are working on the front lines during the Coronavirus global pandemic. These new action figures represent EMTs, first responders, doctors, nurses, medical techs, essential workers, delivery drivers, grocery clerks, etc. These toys will definitely be the collectibles of the future. Buy an action figure… for

instance, I bought the brunette nurse with the white face mask… and a portion of the purchase price will be given as a donation to help first responders. When you get your action figure(s) in a few months, you will have one of the most desirable Coronavirus collectibles. Check out https://www.mattel.com/en-us/playroom-thankyouheroes Fisher Price introduced a set of Little People heroes called Little People Community Champions Special Edition Figure set in a pack of five (5) toys. The 5 pack includes a Little People figure of a Doctor, Nurse, EMT, Delivery driver and Grocery store worker. A $15 donation from each online purchase will be donated to support FirstRespondersFirst, a charity. For more info, use hashtags #ThankyouHeroes and #FirstRespondersFirst There will be more Corona-collectibles that emerge as time goes on. With the onset of summer wedding season, we will see Coronavirus-inspired items like lacy white bride and groom face masks and individual table settings for guests. I took an unexpected trip to the hospital in April and secured a real hospital issue face mask which I kept for posterity’s sake. In addition, there will be rare paper stimulus checks with President Donald J. Trump’s signature on them in this age of direct deposit for collectors. In years to come, they will be of interest with Presidential memorabilia collectors and others. Oh, and a favorite collectible of the Coronavirus is probably the tower of cardboard take-out pizza boxes. Be well.

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POODLES and other 1950s Collectibles My books on the post-World War II era and years as appraising collectibles worldwide gives me great interest in the fun and kitchy objects of the 1950s. For pet lovers and canine enthusiasts many dog breeds were popular in the decorative arts and collectibles of the mid-century modern era. One of the most popular breeds was the poodle. Elizabeth Taylor owned a pet poodle in 1955 and Audrey Hepburn appeared with two poodles at photo shoot for her movie, Sabrina in 1954. From poodle skirts to Glidden pottery featuring dog imagery, Poodle ceramic figurine, the poodle had a place in the American design circa 20th Century aesthetic of the period. After World War II, there was a feeling that we as Americans were part of a larger global society. We started to see ourselves more as citizens of the world. What was collected during this period spoke to a new modern age and a newly embraced internationalism. In the post-war years, the popular ceramic figurine of the 1950s known as the Spaghetti poodle referenced an international symbolism and a nod to Hollywood’s collecting practices. Spaghetti poodles were made by manufacturers in Italy, Japan by Napco and others, France and here in the US, too. Spaghetti poodle figurines spoke to an interest in the upper echelons of society like Hollywood starlets and pointed toward a cultural high style for home accessories. Atop many new mid-century modern television sets, there sat a family of white, pink, grey, or very rarely yellow ceramic Spaghetti poodles. Some were general figurines for a display shelf, some were more functional holding earrings or lipsticks on a vanity dresser, and some were marketed in sets of three with chains or leashes attaching parent poodles to puppy poodles. Spaghetti poodles were figurines intended for the living room or dining room; the rooms where company was received, cigarettes were smoked, grasshoppers and martinis were enjoyed. They were not just any mid-century modern figurine like commonplace Hummel figurines depicting small children brought home by American GIs of the Second World War. Spaghetti poodles were special for their unique form, modern look, and sculptural artistry. A keen collector of the day would recognize the artisan’s workmanship and creativity in the individuallyformed strings of ceramic “spaghetti”. An interested buyer would recognize the subtle differences between the American, Italian or Japanese manufactured versions of the collectible art form. Spaghetti poodles differed widely from the American-made, bright-eyed and almost painfully cutesy Lefton bluebirds that were popular at the same time. These cheerful ceramic bluebirds were undoubtedly kitchen collectibles and were only suitable for the shelf over the sink or the space atop the Hoosier cabinet near the Frigidaire. Conversely, Spaghetti poodles were living room decorations watching over happy hour and dinner parties with an undoubtedly fashionable flair. I appraise approximately 20,000 objects every year at public events nationwide, for public museums and private collectors, online and via video call appraisals on Skype, Zoom, Facetime, etc. and when I appraise these mid-century modern ceramic collectibles, I look first for condition and quality. Condition is key because those delicate clay spaghetti elements can be easily damaged. I look for rare colors of the clay like yellow, mustard, or gray. White, pink and black are more commonly found in the collectible world of Spaghetti poodles. I admire and value a distinctive sculptural form which can be recognized as loose or tight poodle curls in excellent condition. If a collector has been able to acquire complete sets of Spaghetti poodle family groups or special varieties of the tiny sculptures then those examples are worth considerably more than the run of the mill examples. As the 1950s became the 1960s, other figurines and common collectibles started showing their age and interest waned, however, the Spaghetti poodle was actively collected for decades to come. ��

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READ A Scenic Hike For A Donkey

CONNECT

Donkey-Donk wants to hike Mount Washington, the highest peak in the Northeastern United States. Before she can hike the mountain, however, she must get in shape by lifting weights and working out on her treadmill. Then it’s off to New Hampshire and the White Mountains, where Mount Washington awaits. Follow along with Donk as she hikes this amazing mountain and enjoy the incredible scenery that she discovers. Over 20 beautiful, professional photographs of Donk as she prepares for, and then hikes, Mt. Washington

Signed Copies Available From: www.WillowBendPublishing.com Also available at Amazon.com

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WORLD RENOWNED Horse Whisperer, Anna Twinney,

EQUINE Lifestyle

Releases New Horsemanship Book For two and a half decades, Anna Twinney has traveled the world teaching students of all walks of life the art of collaborative horsemanship and the subtle language of the horse. Her unique, collaborative-based, philosophy and methodologies create a genuine partnership, relationship, and bond between horse and human that goes deeper than conventional horsemanship and even most “natural” horsemanship training. Her work, that started simply as a means to help give her fellow police officers a healthy outlet for the stress and trauma often encountered in the line of duty, has grown into a quiet revolution in the equine world. And now, available this month, is a collection of Anna’s stories from her extensive time of perfecting horse whispering, animal communication, and energy healing called Beyond the Barn: Exploring the Next Generation of Horsemanship – Volume 1. In her newest book, Anna promises to deliver natural, holistic, trust-based tools that will change the way you see your relationship with your favorite equine. This paradigm shift is just the beginning! “Even seemingly gentle methods stray away from respecting the horse,” Twinney explains. “While safety and awareness are always paramount, many natural horsemanship methods aren’t natural at all. In Beyond the Barn I highlight the paradigm-shifting methodologies and successes and the difference between collaboration and coercion. I often find students are, at first, oblivious to the ways in which they are disrespecting their relationships with their horses. When they find success in learning the language of the horse, understanding energy and exploring telepathy, their results are life-changing.” 34

Take a walk with Anna through the eyes of the horse to discover their silent and secret language, the relationships they share within a herd that shape how they interact with us, how they learn, think, feel, and perceive, and how we can use this information to better understand and serve the horses we love. Explore the use of body language, the energetic connection, and even delve into animal communication and how Anna has used it to turn traditional horsemanship methods that are anything but natural on their heads.

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EE 39

The

ACTIVE RIDER Goes to

Iceland Wri�en by L.A. Sokolowski latheequinista@gmail.com Photos courtesy Deb Rusden and Stacey Adams

Don’t let the name fool you. Iceland promises a warm welcome if you love a good horseback riding adventure. Just ask Deborah Rusden of Palm City, Florida, who calls her globe-tölting adventure in June to Reykjavik through Active Riding Trips the “absolutely perfect trip for all riding abilities.”

Ten years ago,

the equestrian entrepreneur created The Original NibbleNet® and it’s been a nice blend of business and pleasure: As her slow feeder nets gain worldwide interest, she stays interested in the world from horseback. Much like riding, the more she learns about Iceland the more there is to know. “There is so much to see and do. It really is like no other place on earth. “This was my second trip. My ﬁrst was with a friend. It wasn’t a riding trip but we did a halfday ride on Icelandic horses. Now I love the place, its people, horses, and food. The land – its geysers, hot springs and rock formations – is fascinating. It feels like you’re on another planet.” She has ridden with Stacey Adams and Active Riding Trips since the two met at a trade show in Texas six years ago. “She recommended the most wonderful ride in Spain and I haven’t been disappointed in her trips yet. I do one a year.”

This six-day adventure began directly from the airport in Keflavik. “We went to the Blue Lagoon to soak and enjoy a highly-recommended in-water massage in the therapeutic lagoon.” The Blue Lagoon is a geothermal spa, located in a lava field near Grindavík on the Reykjanes Peninsula in southwest Iceland, whose volcanic landscape and geothermal seawater offer an otherworldly experience while nourishing a traveler’s mind, body and spirit. “We spent two days in Reykjavik sightseeing, then four, six-hour days on horseback,” she said, and all that riding could build an appetite. “My favorite meal here is always a cod, monk or wolf fish. I also love a Gull or Einstok beer, but the other beers are good, too.” “We stayed in Hotel Eldhestar for the ride and went back every night.” Hotel Eldhestar, in Suðurlandsvegur, has been built in accordance with modern ecological guidelines and is the first lodging in Iceland to be awarded the Nordic Swan Ecolabel. It is also dedicated to “our most useful servant for centuries, the Icelandic horse,” and in addition to riding tours, the hotel’s walls feature photos and texts reminding guests how important the native ‘volcano horses’ have been through the ages.

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“All of the horses were great,” she said. “We could ride two different horses every day, as we could change horses after lunch.” There were three levels of mount to choose from. “We had a choice of a Friday (very forward, experienced rider), Saturday (forward, but easier to control) or Sunday horse (mellow, not too forward). “Riding the Tölt was a-mazing! Just sit back, lift the reins slightly and go! We did a Flying Pace on the beach.” Her favorite horse was the Saturday-style Tonelist, aka Sallee. “She was perfect for me. Very forward but responsive, and easy to work into all her gaits.” It was easy to work their Icelandic guides into telling a story, too. “(Our guide) told us, as a little boy, how the wind was so strong one day that he was blown into a crevasse! The next day (he was rescued of course), his grandfather gave him some coins he’d collected over the years and told him, ‘Put these in your pockets and you will never get blown away again.” Forget the wind. Iceland by horseback will blow you away.

The Icelandic Tölt and Pace The Tölt is a natural four-beat gait where at least one hoof always touches the ground, producing a nearly bounceless ride at upwards of 20 mph (32 kmh). The Flying Pace (“the crown of Icelandic horsemanship”) is equal (30 mph/48 kmh) to a gallop, where both legs on the same side simultaneously touch the ground between intervals of midair suspension.

EE 42

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KEEPING HORSES SUN SAFE

EQUINE Health

Horses need protection from the sun just like humans do. The ultraviolet rays from the sun can put a horse’s health at risk. As important as it is to keep your skin protected while out training and riding with your horses, keeping your horse safe and protected from overexposure to the sun and other environmental damage is important too. Many horse owners may not realize that horses can be just as vulnerable to skin damage as people are.

My horses love spending time on a hot summer day under the trees behind my farm house. The big old pine trees and apple trees keep them cool and provide plenty of shade and protection from wind, rain, and sun. In the fall when the apple trees are full of ripe apples the horses love to stand around the apple trees and pick apples right off the branches with their teeth. When my horses are outside in their pasture on a hot sunny summer day, I make sure they have access to plenty of fresh water, a salt lick stone, a little hay throughout the day—and shade. Horses, like people, can get sunburned if left out too long and if exposed to excessive sunlight. When we look at a horse, the first thing we see is their coat, but if we could look beyond their coat, we would see that their skin is very similarly structured to our own with the same functions. The top layer of skin is the epidermis, about as thick as a sheet of paper, the first defense against the harsh elements of the weather. The dense and free flowing oils in the horse’s skin keep this layer healthy and well protected. If we looked even deeper we would discover the second layer of skin, the dermis which has a protective function also and controls the hair follicles, sweat glands, and oil glands. When these skin layers are jeopardized by too much sun, heat, rain, wind, or cold, the natural protective oil barrier that protects a horse’s skin starts to break down, leaving it vulnerable to all kinds of skin conditions. The lighter the color of the horse’s coat the more prone a horse is to sunburn when exposed to the harmful UV rays of the sun. Darker colored horses are also not safe from sunburn but because of their darker pigment and ample melanin in their skin they are less likely to get sunburned than lighter colored horses. Regardless of color, though, all horses are prone to sunburn and heat stroke if left unprotected and exposed for a long period of time in the hot summer sun. The first obvious place one can detect a sunburn is around the nose or muzzle of the horse, but other places can also show signs of sunburn by showing redness and swelling. It is important be alert to that possibility in the hot summer. When horses are found to have sunburn it is important to keep them out of the sun and treat the sunburned area with aloe vera and other sun lotions

available in your horse supply store or feed store. If the burn is a very severe one, you should always consult a veterinarian. Horses like people can develop skin cancer and other skin conditions. Horses may be susceptible to a fungus known as rain rot. Rain rot is usually caused by leaving horses unprotected for long periods out in the wind and rain. When my horses get wet I always make sure I have a few clean cotton towels available in the barn to towel them down with, and sometimes I even put an absorbent blanket on them too. To protect my horses from unnecessary pain and possible suffering from sunburn or rain rot I make sure they have lots of shade and cover in all kinds of weather. I also use a protective grooming spray and SPF before I send them out to the pasture. Even though we need to protect horses from too much sun exposure, they still need a moderate amount of sunlight to help them synthesize vitamin D to keep them healthy. When my horses are out behind the farmhouse grazing, my routine is to check on them every few hours. Often when I walk back home from the field my horses follow me to the barn. Generally when they do this they are ready to be brought into their stalls and fed their grain, hay, and fresh water for lunch. Horses are very expressive and by following me back to the barn, this may also be their way of letting me know that they would like to be in the barn and out of the hot midday sun. When the temperatures become cooler outside in the later part of the day, I let them back out of the barn again to stay outside until dark. It does take a lot of juggling and attention to keep horses well hydrated and safe and protected from the sun during the summer months. I have learned to listen to what my horses are telling me. Observing them closely and listening to what they are telling you is the best way to keep your horses safe during the hot summer months. Karin Matey is the author of Sebastian’s Adventures: Diary of a Champion and My American Horse Family. For more information, please visit her website at www.karinmateybooks.com

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Nutrena® Adds

Empower® Digestive Balance To Product Lineup By Kyle Kapustka on behalf of Cargill

For horse owners that seek nutritional support for their horse’s gut discomfort, Nutrena® has added Empower® Digestive Balance supplement to its lineup. Intestinal and gastric discomfort in horses is often due to stressful situations such as rigorous training, competing, shipping, frequent changes in environment, and even drastic changes in weather. While the structure of a horse is quite large, their gastrointestinal system is rather small, sensitive and susceptible to upset.

“Horses can suffer from digestive upset which can be demonstrated through irritable behavior, poor appetite and sometimes loose manure,” says Russell Mueller, Equine Product Line Manager with Cargill Animal Nutrition. “These challenges can be even greater in performance horses which are exposed to more stress from travelling, performing and constantly changing environments. Empower Digestive Balance is a pelleted topdress that brings multiple nutritional technologies into one product to support the overall health of the entire digestive tract.”

EQUINE Health

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This new offering from Nutrena joins the Empower product family which includes Empower Boost and Empower Topline Balance®. All Empower products are scientiﬁcally designed for low feeding rates. Empower Digestive Balance is intended to be fed with any fully fortiﬁed and balanced existing diet. It is offered in 40lb. bags across the United States and is available at over 4,000 Nutrena retailers.

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Young Florida barn builder discovers that

ComfortStall

does it all.

By Kim F Miller Photos by Emma Whillans It’s widely known in the equestrian world that horsemanship skills and horse sense in a business context don’t always go together. They do at Whillans Equine, where 24-year-old hunter/jumper trainer and barn owner Emma Whillan’s clear vision for every aspect her new training and boarding facility has led to a remarkable first year. Whillans Equine opened for business July 1 of 2019, in the Wellington, Florida area’s Loxahatchee. Emma’s idea was top notch care and training in a family-friendly environment and its realization resulted in the quick filling of her now 24 stalls. Emma has been planning the barn most of her life. She kept a notebook of what she liked and didn’t like in stables as a junior competitor and working student at several top programs.

Flooring First Starting from scratch with five acres of former nursery, Emma put flooring first in prioritizing her budget. She knew what she didn’t want: traditional stall mats. These provide little cushion for the horse and are a heavyweight hassle when they and whatever they’re laid on top of need to be cleaned and aired out because of urine seepage and accumulation.

EQUINE Health

ComfortStall Orthopedic Sealed Flooring was exactly the ﬂooring Emma imagined, even before she knew it existed. The multi-layer system functions as a single-piece thanks to a durable rubber top cover that is sealed to the stall walls with HDPE anchor strips. Under that is proprietary foam that provides give, cushion and energy return. Emma made an initial investment in 16 ComfortStalls and recently added another eight.

The flooring is a convincing selling point for prospective boarders, letting them feel with their own two feet the commitment Whillans Equine has made to their horses’ well-being. Most important, the flooring is helping the horses, exceeding Emma’s already high expectations at the outset of her barn and business building adventure. “I am so lucky to have it in my first barn,” she says. “I knew that flooring was something I could not cut corners on and I was right. We’ve actually had some miracle stories with some of our horses, and all of them are way better thanks to this flooring.”

Delphine and Uno

This is Cushy! Tamara Ploskunak is one of those to bear out Emma’s prediction that ComfortStall would impress prospective boarders. Shopping for a new home for her Andalusian mare, Rabina, Tamara saw stables that had dirt stall floors and others with rubber mats over concrete. “Oh, this is just bad,” she thought. Then, “Wow! This is cushy. I could do gymnastics on this!” when she visited Whillans Equine. Tamara purchased Rabina a year ago knowing the mare had some mild fetlock issues, most likely arthritis related. “I figured if that was the only problem, I wasn’t going to worry.” She accepted that joint injections might be a near-future reality to keep Rabina comfortable in her dressage work. After being at Whillans Equine for just a few weeks, “She was sound as a board,” Tamara states. “I think the way the flooring takes the pressure off her legs is really helping her.” Rabina’s general response on ComfortStall has been “amazing,” the www.EliteEquestrianMagazine.com

owner adds. “At first, I freaked out because she was always lying down when I came to see her. But now I realize it’s because she is comfortable lying down and I know it’s the flooring. In the past, she used to be fidgety in her stall. She used to pace and weave a little. She doesn’t do that anymore. It is such a relief to know that she is comfortable.”

Tenderfoot Corey, a 17.2hh show jumper, is another ComfortStall fan, as is his owner and farrier. The 12-year-old Holsteiner has an issue with thinning bursa, the sac of fluid that helps lubricate joint function. “His navicular bursa was pretty beat up,” explains farrier David Bustamante. It never manifested in actual lameness, but rather as occasional tenderfootedness, especially when first coming out of his stall each day. That’s disappeared since Corey moved onto ComfortStall. David had cared for Corey when he was stabled elsewhere. The first shoeing after moving to Whillans Equine, David didn’t notice a difference in the jumper’s hooves. After the second shoeing, four weeks later, “I told his owner, I really like his feet.” Because Corey’s nutrition and exercise routine had stayed the same, the farrier attributed the improvement to the flooring.

Continued

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Corey needs special farrier work

Emma and Uno

“But why?” he wondered. “I believe it’s because this ﬂooring allows the feet to articulate in whatever way they want to. The hoof is not set at a certain angle because it’s on a hard surface. It allows give and take and for the bony structures of the foot to go where they want to go.” Corey and his junior rider, Victoria Craig, did well at the 1.1M and 1.15M jumper division at Wellington’s Winter Equestrian Festival this year. They are conﬁdent about moving up now that his condition is so well managed. The “big boy” also seems to be getting more rest. “He didn’t used to lie down that much before, but now he is really comfortable doing so,” observes Pat Craig, Victoria’s mother.

Easing Pregnancy Problems

Breeding is a new adventure for Emma, and for her former Junior Jumper mare, Delﬁne 3. As usual, the stable owner approached the task with extensive research and inquiries. Ample bedding was advised for the mare’s comfort throughout her pregnancy. Emma was happy to already have that detail covered with ComfortStall’s orthopedic foam.

The eight ComfortStalls Emma added to the original 16 include two stalls adapted into a 12’ by 24’ foaling stall. “I knew I wanted the ability to un-divide two stalls to make one foaling stall, and I’m so glad I thought of that in advance.” The ComfortStall top cover is normally installed so that it extends a few inches up each wall, to which it is sealed with HDPE anchor strips. A modification to accommodate the removable stall divider was easy to devise, Emma says. Because Delfine is a first-time mom, Emma removed the mare’s shoes. A maiden mare is more likely to accidently step on her foal in the early days. That advice made sense, but Emma worried that carrying an extra 200 pounds on unshod feet would be rough for a show horse that had worn shoes for 12 years. “I pulled her hind shoes first,” Emma explains. “On regular barn aisle mats, she was a little ouchy, but in her stall, she was completely fine.”

Bottom Line Booster ComfortStall requires only enough bedding to absorb urine and it prevents urine seepage that creates unhealthy barn air and requires regular, heavyduty cleaning. For those reasons alone, it substantially lowers bedding and labor costs, often paying for itself in less than a year. Less bedding in means less soiled bedding out, making ComfortStall an environmentally friendly choice, too. At Whillans Equine, Emma is most impressed by how far beyond the bottom line the beneﬁts extend. Most of all, seeing her own and her clients’ horses at ease in their stalls and in their bodies is the best dividend for this forwardthinking barn builder and business owner.

Pregnancy usually brings swollen legs from restricted circulation, but that was another non-issue for Delﬁne. The constant, tiny muscle movements that occur while standing on ComfortStall prompt proprioception that improves joint health, whether pregnant or not. As a result, Delﬁne has not suffered the usual lower leg stocking up.

Elite Equestrian does not endorse or conﬁrm content suggestions in any articles. See credit page for disclaimer.

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OBILIZING

Exercises for Horses

The point of mobilizing horse’s legs is to improve or maintain the maximum length of the fascia and muscle fibers. When the muscle fibers get longer, they are more supple. Because the muscle belly is more pliable, the related tendons experience less pull and strain. Well-stretched muscles have improved blood circulation, so the metabolism can be optimized. In contrast, a shortened muscle will constantly pull on the place where the muscle attaches, where the tendon inserts on the bone. Through this constant pulling, this location will become strained, inflamed, and painful. Fascia responds negatively to immobility. If not regularly moved and used, the fascia adheres together and the entire musculoskeletal system is affected.

Varia�on 3 Here, you’re mobilizing the knee joint. The starting position is the same as above, but now one hand holds the forearm and the other, the cannon bone. You circle the leg, as if you wanted to draw a circle on the ground with your horse’s hoof. Here, too, circle three to ﬁve times to the right, then circle the other way. Continue to allow the circle to get bigger.

Mobilizing the Forelimbs Lift up the front leg as if you were going to pick out the hoof. Holding the leg on the fetlock joint and stretch it by moving yourself backward, toward the horse’s head. The leg will be stretched forward, as this movement is more natural for the horse. At the end of the movement, change your hold. You want to hold the limb above the knee joint and lift it up until the forearm is almost parallel to the ground. Simply allow the cannon bone to hang down. Varia�on 1 This exercise mobilizes the shoulder and the elbow. Hold the leg by the forearm and guide it in circling movements. Begin with a small diameter and slowly allow it to get bigger. A good rule of thumb is three to ﬁve rounds to the right, then go the other way. Change direction several times. To conclude the exercise, lower the leg back to its starting position and set it down. You can certainly do all three variations as a sequence.

Mobilizing the knee joint.

Mobilizing the Hind Limbs The muscles of the hindquarters are your horse’s motor. They are responsible for most of the forward thrust; horses depend on having highly mobilized joints as well as well-stretched, ﬂexible muscles in this area.

Mobilizing the shoulder and elbow joint. The hold is correct. However, you don’t need to bring the leg as far forward as it is here in the photo.

EQUINE Lifestyle

Varia�on 2

Basic Exercise Stand beside your horse and to the side. Lift the hind leg and hold on with one hand around the fetlock joint and the other around the hoof (see photo left). As you did with the forelegs, guide the hind leg in a circular movement as if you were drawing a circle on the ground. Begin with small circles and gradually allow them to get bigger. Three to ﬁve rounds to the right, then change direction. Do this a couple of times. To end the exercise, bring the leg A loosening exercise for the coﬃn joint back to the starting position and and hindquarters musculature. set it down.

Mobilizing the shoulder and elbow joint.

This is likewise an exercise for shoulder and elbow. This time, you stand beside the horse, looking toward his head. You hold the leg by the cannon and forearm. You move the leg in a horizontal circular movement. 52

An excerpt from the recent book Physical Therapy for Horses by Helle Katrine Kleven. The book contains mobiliza�on technique for the whole equine body. Reprinted with permission from Trafalgar Square Books. Available at www.HorseandRiderBooks.com.

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Life’s so Bright You Gotta Wear Shades UV Sensitivities Handled for Your Horse Story and Photos By Ray Pe�erson Photosensitivity, the skin’s reaction to UV rays in sunlight can not only be a cause but also contribute to worsening cases of vasculitis, making it a major contributing factor to Equine Pastern Dermatitis, EPD. Horses with white legs and pink skin suffer more commonly from UV sensitities and whether the direct cause of dermatitis or worsening already existing dermatitis, the Photosensitivity battle might be the easiest contributing factor of EPD to win.

You can’t change the weather and you can’t always change where you keep your horse. That’s where Silver Whinnys® made by Sox For Horses, Inc. help owners exercise control over those otherwise “uncontrollable” factors. “As we have increased our understanding on the pathogenesis of this complex disease (EPD) in the last decade, we have become very aware of the importance of skin barrier dysfunction, whether primary or secondary to inflammation. Skin impairment can play an important role in facilitating allergen penetration and increasing the risk for allergic sensitization.” wrote Dr. Rosanna Marsella, award-winning veterinary dermatologist, research author and full Professor, Rosanna Marsella, DVM, DACVD of the University of Florida (Gainesville) College of Veterinary Medicine at the 2016 Eighth World Congress of Veterinary Dermatology, where Dr. Marsella presented her paper, Atopic Dermatitis: What is the Latest in Therapy. “Since the list (of potential causes) is extensive, it is important to address secondary infections first and treat the treatable, and reassess (the causes) once the infections are resolved.” Marsella adds,“In most cases, secondary infections are present and complicate the evaluations; thus successful identification of the underlying disease will also depend on complete resolution of the secondary infection.” adds Dr. Marsella in her article Approach to Equine Pastern Dermatitis, published Issue 1, 2014 FAEP “The Practitioner” Win this battle, by protecting sensitive skin from harmful direct sunlight. Silver Whinnys® by Sox For Horses, Inc, are socks made specifically for equine legs.

EQUINE Health

Double-layered in construction, they stop the majority of UV from reaching the skin. As dirt and insects are also two major enemies of healing, this double layer stops biting insects and keeps dirt away from the skin. help resolve the secondary infection by providing 2.They a clean enviornment that promotes healing. Silver

Whinnys offer the most advanced silver yarn technology

in the world that inhibits the growth of bacteria and fungi in the socks while the wicking/moisture-managing qualities of the yarn pull moisture away from the skin. Bacteria and fungi cannot penetrate the double layered protection of the socks when protocols* are followed. Whinnys provide more protection than you knew 3.Silver you needed to ask for. They allow valuable air to reach the skin’s surface. Wicking/moisture-managing qualities of their remarkable silver yarn pull moisture away from the skin, completing two vital functions, keeping the legs cool and the skin surface is dry. Even in mud and wet weather, Silver Whinnys® have been proven to keep the skin surface dry and clean.”

Dr Marsella offered “While not a cure for all cases of EPD, the pull-on equine socks protect the skin and allow second infection to heal. Silver, which has antimicrobial properties and inhibits the growth of bacteria and fungi, is embedded in the yarn used to make this product.” *Sox For Horses, Inc. recommends that the sox are changed every 24 hours until the dermatitis is resolved to be sure that the silver in the sox is always at optimum microbe reduction. If being used to prevent UV exposure and dermatitis is not present, the Silver Whinnys can be changed every other day.

www.soxforhorses.com

Elite Equestrian does not endorse or conﬁrm content suggestions in any articles. See credit page for disclaimer.

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BIT,

or no bit?

By Alessandra Deerinck The choice of tack, more often than not, is driven by its efficacy in terms of intensity of the pressure exercised on the horse, but If we become detailed and efficient in our communication to the horse, we can widen the scope of our choice.

When we are in the presence of a horse, or any other live individual, they perceive our behavior and act accordingly towards us. This is the reason why we have studied the social interaction between human and horse and formulated Human Horse Sensing as a detailed method that can be applied to any equestrian discipline. It works through behavior in a way that makes immediate sense to the horse, without requiring to train them for it. Training a horse for a purpose is an additional resource, but we should not just limit our interaction to what he has been trained for. The first step to be efficient in the communication with horses is to understand their instinctual behavior and we teach to do so on the ground and in the saddle. When we can understand the equine behavior, we also have to learn to modulate our movements in a way that horses can always immediately understand us, and most importantly we need to see and take in consideration how horses respond to our actions. Such modality makes the interaction become cooperative, like a dialogue where human and horse both contribute. The meaningful elements of the communication are not words, but movements, and their direction and frequency are key points that the horse can perceive by sight or touch, and understands them instinctually. Riding a horse puts us in a position where we occupy part of the horse’s space, the communication with the horse happens mainly by the way of touch, through pressure and release and is mediated by the tack we choose to use. The saddle is where we seat, and the bridle allows us to reach the head of the horse. In the past issue of Elite Equestrian, we talked about proper bit design, now we would like to talk about the way to make contact with the horse’s head using a bitless bridle. Rider and horse both need to learn the elements that are meaningful in the communication by touch. We teach the rider to gage his contact by its direction, frequency of request and most importantly to distinguish between the kind of interaction (cooperative or competitive) they are having with the horse. To prepare the horse to be ridden in a bridle, with or without the bit, we work to have him respond to our request that is made on the ground with the lightest touch, using a longe line. The goal is to have the rider learn to use the lightest touch by tension and by release, and to get the horse to respond to the direction of the impulse we send him, in a prompt and detailed manner, always without applying painful pressure or a fixed side rein. The horse learns to respond to the lightest tension of

the reins when we ride. He will comply with our request not by avoiding the pressure, but by following the direction of the tension or release. What is very often overlooked is that the structure of the tack we use determines the direction of the pressure not just its presence or intensity. When talking about bridles or choosing which one to use, the anatomy of the equine facial region should be always kept in mind. In order to efficiently communicate with the horse, we need to learn how to properly gage our contact through touch, and one of the ways to handle it in a detailed manner is to consider its direction and length of time relatively to the anatomical location where the horse receives it. The head is where all of the sense receptors are located and the horse orients it to perceive the environment, but also to properly move his body according to what surrounds him. When we ask him to position his head according to our instruction, we need to be conscious of these key facts. There are disciplines that require the horse to have a certain body carriage, and some riders achieve it by constraining the horse with tack or hard contact, but a horse that accepts the presence of the rider on his back, would naturally assume a correct head and body posture to achieve the correct carriage if the rider is sitting properly. Most importantly, the horse perceives all of the rider’s movements, not just what we would like to send as our input to the horse. Furthermore, causing painful pressure inside the mouth, or on the facial region will make a horse reactive and possibly defensive, which reflects on its carriage, and can cause a conflict instead of a cooperative interaction between rider and horse. In the learning process, an instance that has a negative content will not be something that the horse

TRAINING & Showing

Interaction becomes cooperative.

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The cross under type of bitless bridle has the reins passing through rings connected to a loose ﬁtted noseband and connected to the crown of the bridle.

will look forward to experience, and will definitely have a negative influence on the relationship between human and horse. Having the bit in their mouth can seem a harsh situation, but the horse can chew on a bit, if his mouth is not shut by a tight-fitting nose band, and this gives him a saying in how the contact we are applying impacts him. So, if we think that using a bitless device that lays on the horse’s face instead of being in the mouth is a better solution, we should think twice. A horse cannot handle a metal bar or a hard and tightly fitting noseband in any way other than just resigning to its presence and action. If applied tightly the bitless tack affects the physiology of the area, can cause swelling, and constant pain in the process of carrying our communication.

To Order: www.bitlessbridle.com Or Call: 877.942.4277

There are many designs of bitless bridles Just like with any kind of tack, there are many designs for bitless bridles, and some of them still operate by putting pressure on the facial area and expecting the horse to seek comfort by moving away from the pressure, and therefore complying with the request. The Hackamore has its name from the English word that came from jaquima, that means bridle in Spanish. The Hackamore operates by putting pressure on the muzzle instead of inside the mouth, and the same happens with the Spanish bitless device called bosal, which means noseband. Both these devices can cause swelling on the horse’s facial region just because of their presence. ContinuedMore... on page 68 www.EliteEquestrianMagazine.com

Myths of Saddle Fitting Methods (and yes, I’m warning you - these are controversial!)

There are several major problems

I have often heard riders say, “I have been using my saddle for x number of years. It fits me perfectly and fits every horse I use. Never had to get it fitted.” I have to really bite my tongue on that one but usually just manage to smile and say. “Lucky you”. Most people do not realize the possible damage they may be doing to themselves and their horses, but the fact is that there are still saddles on the market that actually inhibit the development of the horse, and as such – they may actually be right. Their saddles may still fit the same as it did when they first bought it. But, the analogy here is sort of like the Chinese custom of binding the feet so that they will not grow. Doesn’t mean it’s the right thing to do…(tradition aside!) Fitting the saddle properly should have less to do with opinion and more to do with science and the laws of nature. There was a time when people argued and swore that the earth was flat – there are still people who would argue that there is no physical difference between the male and female pelvis when it comes to saddles! (Scary – and some of these are even equine professionals!)

arising in today’s modern saddle construction, because of the fact that: a) People are getting heavier (larger) b) There more horse owners than horse’men’ (and women) around now (which means much of the inherent knowledge about horse husbandry may have been lost) c) Horse’s saddle support area is getting smaller (horses are being bred with shorter backs which leaves a smaller area for the saddle) d) The structure of saddle trees and saddle panels have deviated from proper function. The side rails of the saddle trees are too narrow for proper weight bearing surface area, and the panels are generally much too soft to afford any real support to the too narrow rails. Panels need to be ﬁrm for support.

Now let’s look at the various methods that the saddle is then fitted to the horse. Fit #1 - The Clothespin Fit. Seen in Jumping, Dressage, but mostly for Polo

TRAINING & Showing

All of these challenges work together to result in more and more back issues – for both horse and rider! Let me explain my theory on this, and please recognize that my ‘opinion’ on this has been substantiated with the use of various diagnostic tools, as well as being supported by the simple fact that the horse will change in conformation as it matures; especially at ages 3, 5 and 8. It would be doing the animal a huge disservice and potentially causing unnecessary pain and long term back damage to not to have the saddle adjusted to ensure continued health, comfort and performance, which is why we recommend at least annual checkups for saddle fit. Dr. Joyce Harman in her book “The Horse’s Pain Free Back and Saddle Fit Book” actually states at one point that, depending on the discipline, saddle model, and riding style that adjustments may need to be made as often as monthly! (although once a year is pretty much the minimum requirement for most saddles). The most common dilemma in saddle fit seems to be whether the saddle needs to fit the horse first or the rider. The short answer is that the saddle needs to fit the rider first, and here is why. Colonel Alois Podhajky, the director of the Spanish Riding School in Vienna from 1939-1964 states, “It is of the utmost importance not to cause the rider any discomfort. With a cramped posture it is impossible to achieve a pliable seat. Without a pliable seat it is not possible to achieve oscillation in a horse’s back. And if its back cannot oscillate, the horse will suffer pain and will not be able to collect”. The point? The saddle has to fit the rider as well as the horse. Which means, among other things – the saddle has to be gender appropriate. 58

This type of fit is often seen in polo saddles, where the saddle actually is designed to ‘lock’ onto the spinal processes. Polo ponies often have atrophied back muscles, and usually 6-8 ponies are used in a game because they simply are in too much pain and not strong enough to continue. They have too little musculature to compensate. The saddles with this type of fit will put excess pressure on the multifidus muscles and spinal nerves, which is what leads to muscle atrophy in the back. Some saddle manufacturers and their trained saddle fitters still maintain that a saddle is fine with a relatively (1-2 fingers) narrow channel. The tree is often too long and flat (resting on the shoulder cartilage and lumbar area) and sits with minimal weight bearing surface on the longissimus muscle. In this scenario, the saddle barely moves because it is ‘clamped’ on the spine (other than perhaps to twist during motion as it is ‘kicked back’ by the bigger shoulder.) This saddle actually rarely does need to be adjusted because bone structure, cartilage and ligaments do not adapt and change their conformation through training like muscles do – and the muscles really won’t change much because the horse simply is not able to use his muscles properly to develop a proper topline with a saddle that fits like this. The saddle doesn’t need to be refitted as no development happens.

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Fit #2 – The Bridge Fit

Fit #4 – The Treeless Fit (Bareback Pad)

These addles are built for contact only at the front and the back of the saddle support area, and some equine professionals believe that by increasing the pressure at the front and the back the saddle becomes more stable and the horse will bring up his back during movement to result in full panel contact. This is a false assumption, as multiple diagnostic tools have proven. Massive pressure in the front and back remains – dry spots, white hair, etc. result at the front and the back, but rarely in the middle. The horse’s back should be loose and supple and should swing left to right and up and down. If the back is in pain this movement doesn’t happen and the horse becomes a leg mover rather than a back mover. Same as in Theory #1 Little ﬁtting required, since the saddle barely moves as the horse’s topline doesn’t change positively. We see atrophy under the cantle and behind the shoulders and deformation in the lumbar-sacral area. Fit #3 – The Hyperextension Fit

The person who changed the name of bareback pads to treeless saddles is unquestionably a marketing genius.The word saddle traditionally infers the inclusion of a tree. The tree’s job is to act as an interface to support the rider’s vertical spine over the horse’s horizontal spine and distribute the rider’s weight over a larger surface area on the horse’s back. Without the tree, you have no support for the rider and little weight bearing surface. There has been no scientiﬁc publication to date or veterinary endorsement which approves the use of a treeless saddle. While admittedly there have been some radical improvements in treeless saddles over the past couple of years, there are still many issues I have with them. I know they have their advocates, and they may work for a while, but in the long run they will still result in concentrated pressure points on the horse’s back (mainly below the seat bones on the spine and ligaments – and this has been documented in scientiﬁc press). The rider’s weight is effectively doubled on the horse’s back as there is no support for the rider’s pelvis. Therefore there is no pliable seat and the horse will suffer for it. Fit #5 – The “Modern Sport” Fit (sometimes a combination of Fits 1, 2 and 3)

This type of fit is specifically used on saddles which are purposely built to allow the hollow back look which is popular with saddle seat, “big lick” and Tennessee Walker enthusiasts. The rider’s weight sits primarily on the lumbar area. They literally prevent the horse’s back from engaging by disallowing the ‘wave of motion’ through the horse’s back. They prevent spinal mobility and don’t allow the horse to canter. This creates a false elevation where the hindquarters cannot step under and carry the weight. The back hollows and the shoulder blade rolls further back to create the artificially high lift in the front leg. The saddles have extremely narrow gullets to not allow the back to come up. Or is anyone going to argue that this is a natural type of gait for a horse? And don’t even get me started on the ‘training methods’ that still seem to be pervasive to achieve these looks.

This is where the premise of fitting a saddle according to ‘fad’ sometimes overtakes the more common sense logic of ‘function’. I remember when I first came over to Canada from Germany and saw my first show jumping competition. Most of the riders were using extremely small, flat saddles that I later learned were called ‘close contact’ – in direct opposition to the bigger, bulkier jumping saddles I had been used to in Germany. What I couldn’t understand was the fact that almost without exception there was keyhole pad upon rubber pad upon felt pad under the saddle – basically negating the concept of ‘close contact’. But everyone was doing it because the elite was riding this way. Unfortunately, this is part of the concept that ‘one size fits all’. Saddles are bought because top riders endorse a particular product (for whatever reason) – and not necessarily because they are right for the individual or actually fit either horse or rider.

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Continued...

That’s what I mean by fad. These saddles are often placed too far forward (on the shoulder cartilage) because they may be too long for a certain horse. This is the worst fit of all of the fits, as the saddles rest on the shoulder cartilage, lumbar spinal processes and ligaments. As explained previously, the horses do not move properly through the back, but mainly through the legs. The false show trot, also known as resulting from ‘rollkuer’ in dressage, or false elevation as shown in the Big Lick impresses the uneducated masses. These types of fit create long term damage to spine, nerves and joints with little obvious muscular pain, as there is little or no weight being carried by the back (longissimus) muscles – as it should be. Fit #6 – The “Specialty” Fit

The fit for specialty saddles actually uses a combination of various fit methodologies to work. It is different from saddle to saddle. These are saddles which are generally used in specific disciplines, such as racing, side saddles, or parades. Each of these saddles of course require different fit considerations given their specialized uses. Each specialty saddle requires the understanding of the fitter of the biomechanic movement of the horse and the goal and use of the saddle in each discipline. While the general premise of how a saddle should fit given the requirements of both human and equine anatomy doesn’t change, there are specific ‘opinions’ of saddle fitting which are a must for these disciplines which fly against the usual rules. Racing: the jockey stands in the stirrups. The greatest area of contact will therefore be in the front of the saddle. Parade saddles (drum saddle): Must rock extremely to accommodate the rider sitting in the saddle to lift the drums away from the horse’s shoulders. Side saddles: the tree is completely different on the left and right sides, and the stuffing needs to be totally asymmetric. Both legs are on one side of the horse.

Most saddle companies advertise their saddles as being adjustable. Unless the saddle can be adjusted in tree width independently from the tree angle, (orthopedic adjustment on left and/or right); narrowed or widened over spinal clearance; increased or decreased flocking in panel; billet alignment correction/adjustment; panel contact area widened/narrowed/lengthened/shortened) the saddle cannot be balanced properly on the horse and it cannot be truly considered adjustable. In motion the saddle will not stay in position front to back or left to right, and the rider will never be able to sit over the balance alignment point of the horse. Saddles which are DIY with interchangeable gullet plates can give the impression of being adjustable at any time to accommodate changes in the horse’s conformation; unfortunately these gullet plates only change angles, and not width. The tree as well may suffer in its integrity in conjunction with constantly changing gullet plates, and adjustments are confined to only a handful of predetermined angles. If a saddle fitter can only work on the stuffing this does not do your horse justice and is known as a ‘fake’ adjustable fit. “Adjustable” does not always mean adjustable – so do your homework! Know what’s in your saddle and what your fitter can actually do. If the saddle can only be adjusted in tree angle and by adding stuffing through a slit in the side of the panel, this very often causes more pressure on the horse’s back after the adjustment. The pressure can actually cause atrophy. The paradox is that capillary ischemia is proven to be caused by as little as 4.67 kPa (kilopascals) of pressure; many of these saddles have readings deemed “acceptable” of far beyond 11+ kPa! (again – documented in the literature; not just because I say so!)

Fit #8 – The “Tree Lift” Fit

Fit #7 – The “Fake Adjustable” Fit

The ‘fake’ saddle adjustment is often practiced on saddles which are not really built to be adjustable. Home-made hydraulic tree machines are being used on wooden trees which are not meant to be spread under the rider’s weight over the horse’s withers. The part of the saddle over the horse’s withers is called the pommel. On a traditional English wooden tree it has a thin metal plate on the bottom of the pommel (small radius) and a thin plate on top of the pommel (larger radius) connected by around 16 rivets along its length. If a hydraulic press is used to spread or narrow the pommel of the wood tree, the rivets will pop and the metal will rip – resulting in a broken tree. Wood trees are used in saddles in all price ranges so you have to know what’s in your saddle. 60

The reasoning behind the name “tree lift fit” is that a saddle with a properly fitting tree has to support the rider’s pelvis and distribute her weight – but in movement it needs to allow the horse’s back to engage and come up by lifting away from the pommel (shoulder) and cantle (loins) area. This type of functional fit specifically accommodates the anatomy of both the horse and rider to ensure optimum comfort and protection against long term pain and possible back damage. The tree has rear-facing tree points to ensure that if properly placed behind the shoulder there will be no cartilage damage. The gullet channel is wide enough to not impact spinal processes, and the rider’s weight is properly distributed within the saddle support area of the horse’s back (on top of the rib cage and on the belly of the longissimus dorsi muscle between the base of the withers and the 18th thoracic vertebra).

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Continued on page 72

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WESTERN Dressage: Preparing to Show By Lynn Palm Palm Partnership Training™ Building a Partnership with your Horse

Dressage is for every rider and any horse, no matter what age, level of education, and what your goals may be. It is simply a natural training method for the horse and rider that leads to great success. So if you are a western rider, dressage training will help you bring out the best in your horse and you as a rider.

Western Dressage is a huge step in the right direction to improve the western rider’s education and skills. Be careful if you try to ride a dressage test; you will get hooked because it is so much fun. Now that you have studied some of my suggestions about getting yourself ready for the show ring, let’s focus now on the horse. Keep the following in mind as you prepare for your first Western Dressage show. 1. Train with patience and understanding about your horse as an individual and not just comparing him to other horses. 2. Understand what is required in each level and test. Know your horse’s confidence level and how he will handle what would be asked for in a test. Aim for willingness and consistency. 3. Evaluate your horse’s fitness. Become educated so you know what is your horse’s best weight and muscle tone.

TRAINING & Showing

4. Evaluate your horse’s soundness, both his overall soundness and the soundness of his legs and feet. Know and work closely with your vet and blacksmith so that your horse is healthy and sound. It takes a great deal of knowledge and time to make sure your blacksmith is trimming or shoeing your horse correctly and for your vet to know this too. Aim to keep the limbs of the horse sound without medications if possible. 5. Set time lines for you and your horse to prepare for yearly goals. Set them and if you are not reaching them, reevaluate them without getting upset and taking it out on the horse.

6. Don’t give in to peer pressure. Don’t let others, such as family members, friends, trainer/coach, or other competitors talk you into thinking that you need to do more then you are capable of doing or want to do. Don’t attempt to reach goals your horse isn’t ready to handle. Stay on a realistic path and set achievable goals. 7. Prepare for your show at home. Find out exactly what you need to do in order to sufficiently warm up to practice for the level you plan to show in. 8. Prepare the warm-up you will do before you enter the ring. Practice what to do and what direction to turn down the center line to start your test. 9. Prepare your tack and clothes ahead of time, and know how long it takes you to get ready. You can rehearse at home. 10. Make packing lists for horse feeding and care, tack to show in, and clothes you wear to compete in. This will keep you from worrying that you’ll forget something. 11. Make travel plans and time lines of when you are going and for how long. 12. Prepare your vehicle and trailer for safe travels. Please refer to our traveling DVDS available on the website. 13. Decide with confidence, excitement and what I call “the eye of the tiger,” to go to the show and have a great time and success. I hope these tips will give you confidence and encouragement to show. Your horse will tell you if he’s not ready by a poor responses if the challenge is too difficult for him. So listen to your horse and go for it. Get out there and tell your friends: Dressage is for everyone in the horse world!

For more information on clinics and training materials, please visit www.lynnpalm.com or call us at 800-503-2824. 62

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��

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September/October 2020 issue deadline August 11th. Distributed at hundreds of events, venues, quality tack shops and more across the U.S.A. DON’T MISS THIS OPPORTUNITY TO PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESS email info@EliteEquestrianMagazine.com for information and to reserve your space.

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Safe Trailers = Safe Trailering Story and Photos By Tom Scheve

What makes a trailer safe? The answer is: “a design that naturally reduces, and often eliminates injuries to horses and their handlers.” As a consumer, you need to find evidence to confirm this ideal.

If trailer companies say their trailers are safe, I believe they should explain why and how. Through the years, Neva and I have identiﬁed and implemented many safety features and designs that should be standard on trailers, many of which, by their very function, help keep handlers and horses out of harm’s way. Over the next issues, I will introduce you to those designs and features, some of which we feel are critical enough to demand an entire article, such as this one about rear entrances. Getting large, powerful animals to walk into a box on wheels is by description, an accident waiting to happen. Of course, well-trained horses, especially those taught to lead correctly, reduce the risk of accidents when loading. But with horses, it’s wise to expect the unexpected, and a well-designed rear entrance is a plus.

THE REAR ENTRANCE

TRAINING & Showing

Forty years ago, there were two basic rear entrance configurations: The Step Up, which is two full doors that close behind the horses. Ramp with Upper Storm Doors, which has a lower ramp with two doors above it. Variations of these existed, such as eliminating the storm doors above the ramp, a StepUp with half height doors instead of full and a version that had two middle doors added to the lower ramp/upper door configuration called a five piece Dutch Door. Back then, the doors over the ramp and the full height doors latched to a rear center post placed in the center of the stalls that was a dangerous obstacle for horses entering or exiting the trailer. But over the years, it was replaced by a swinging center divider supported by the front center post and held in place by the rear 66

butt bars. By swinging the divider to the side, the stall area was opened up, making it look less threatening and safer for horses to enter. At the time, the ramp with upper storm doors was the safer of the two because it eliminated the possibility of horses slipping under the traler when stepping back and down from the trailer. I’ve seen the aftermath of this accident, and the outcome is never good. But ramps had faults. The construction had to be strong enough to withstand impact, so they were heavy to lift. If a horse kicked a ramp while it was being raised or lowered, a handler could be seriously hurt. And someone stooping over to lift the ramp from the side risked getting kicked in the head.

Full doors with ramp, fully open

Full height doors, step up

The two rear conﬁgurations, (ramp with tail doors and the full height doors) remain the primary rear entrance designs in use today. Most Straight Loads (horses facing front to back) use the ramp with upper storm doors, and slant Load trailers typically have full height doors without a ramp (step-ups). In our continuing quest over the years to improve trailer safety, we took a hard look at the pros and cons of each conﬁguration and realized that combining the two was the answer As I stated earlier, a substantial structure is needed in the rear of the trailer to protect the horses from rear impact, especially in this day an age where driver distractions have inwww.EliteEquestrianMagazine.com

Ramp with storm doors

Continued

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Full height doors with ramp door open

Continued from page 57

nother type of bitless bridle

increased the number of rear collisions. Full height doors solve this problem, and since they are hinged to both sides of the trailer, tough, heavy constructed doors can be easily opened and shut. If a handler stands away from the door while closing it, most likely, it will just ﬂy out of a handler’s hand if kicked. With the doors doing the job of rear protection, a ramp can be installed behind the doors that can be light weight (easy to lift), and if low angle, safely assists horses stepping in and out of the trailer. But the other primary safety beneﬁt is that the risk of handlers getting kicked is eliminated since the doors have to be closed before the ramp can be raised or lowered – a failsafe system since no thought is required. (see Full Doors with Ramp, top photo, previous page)

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS ON LOADING Full Doors With Assist Ramp

1. Load the road side (driver’s side) horse while standing on the ramp towards the ditch side (passenger side) behind the open door. When the horse is inside the trailer, stay behind the ditch side door, swing the divider over to the middle, then lift the butt bar into place. Reach over and release the latching pin that locks the butt bar in place. Step back down from the ramp, release the road side door from the tie back, walk the door to the center latch staying well away from the door in case it’s kicked. 2. Load the horse on the ditch side while standing behind the closed road side door. When the horse is inside, raise the butt bar, then reach over and drop the pin in place while staying behind the closed road side door. 3. With both doors secured, you can take your time to raise the ramp and latch it in place without worries of you or the ramp getting kicked. This configuration works most efficiently with butt bars that easily slip into the latches and are designed to prevent horses from backing out before they are fully secured. �� Elite Equestrian does not endorse or confirm content suggestions in any articles. See credit page for disclaimer.

has a basic noseband structure, and is operated by a contact made through the reins, but instead of having the horse avoid the pressure, the goal is to have him move in the direction of the tension applied. There are two basic designs that work in this manner and differ in terms of how the reins are going to contact the horse’s head and direct it. The side-pull style and all its variations have the reins attached to the sides of a nose band. The cross-under style by Dr Cook still has a noseband, but the reins are also attached to two additional parts of the headstall that cross under the jaw line, and link to the main piece connecting with the crown band. The cross under band sends the horse a more detailed input in terms of direction. In side pulls and Dr cook’s bridles the proper fit of the nose band is critical, because it keeps the bridle from slipping around the horse’s face and possibly touching his eyes. The correct noseband does not need to fit tightly, otherwise it can confuse the horse by causing continuous pressure that distracts him from the time when the rider applies the contact. A common problem to using any kind of bitless bridle can be mouth sores, caused by the contact of the buccal mucosa that hits on sharp teeth in the area under the nose band if it is too tightly strapped around the horse’s head. This is a problem that can happen regardless of the kind of bitless bridle, but can be easily avoided with side pull or cross under types, where the noseband is just loosely sitting around the face of the horse. If we learn how to be detailed and precise in our contact, we do not rely on the strength of the pressure applied, we can efficiently modulate our communication, and having a bitted or a bitless bridle becomes a preference or discipline requirement. The choice we make can actually add to the wellbeing of our horse.

�� Elite Equestrian does not endorse or conﬁrm content suggestions in any articles. See credit page for disclaimer.

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lassical

Training

Rene Gasser

of Gala of the Royal Horses, is accepďż˝ng a limited number of horses for training in Dressage in Ocala, Florida. Limited spaces are available for riding students as well.

Rene will bring out the best in your horse! Visit us onour website: www.ocalafmc.com

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CUSTOM PATCHES

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Continued from page 60 The saddle support area is on the weight bearing longissimus dorsi (long back muscle). The advantage to having the saddle on the saddle support area muscle is to stay away from the reflex points that create negative behaviour or negative conformation and health issues. Staying off the spine, lumbar area and shoulder keeps the back muscles loose and supple. Your horse can then articulate through the SI joint, and use his haunches better by stretching his gluteus maximus and hamstring, and get his hind foot closer to the sternum. This allows the horse to carry more on the hindleg and decreases pressure on the foreleg. With the tree lift fit, the horse and rider now have the most efficient way to train for maximizing both flexion (contraction) and extension (stretching). In order to achieve this, full range of motion is required. By reducing the pressure on the shoulder your horse will be able to lift the base of his neck and become supple through the poll. With the tree lift fit the horse has every potential to develop his topline properly. The downside is that the saddle may need to be refitted several times a year as his conformation will change positively! A growing muscle releases lactic acid and not every soreness is a negative. If the horse has been in ill-fitting saddles in the past that have caused some back pain, don’t be discouraged if your horse shows signs of muscle soreness after switching to a saddle which has been fitted properly, as this is good muscle soreness. It will help him heal, get stronger, and develop correctly. We recognize every saddle company and saddle fitter wants to sell their saddles. But we now know the earth is round.

Elite Equestrian does not endorse or conﬁrm content suggestions in any articles. See credit page for disclaimer.

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Elite Equestrian magazine July August issue 2020

Articles inside

What makes a trailer safe?