Equine Feature Supplement - September 21st, 2023

EQUINE

Volunteering with horses is a rewarding endeavour

By Robin George

Spending time with horses can reduce stress, bring joy, increase physical exercise and time outside, and provide a sense of purpose.

But not everyone can afford the hefty price tag of ownership, leasing, or lessons.

Instead, people can spend time with horses – and contribute to their community – by volunteering.

Equine volunteers include seniors finding ways to fill their days, newcomers seeking community and connection, young people gaining experience, and students completing the community service hours they need to graduate.

Volunteers and coordinators at Willowcrest Farm in Moorefield, Equine Erin, and Sunrise Therapeutic Riding & Learning Centre in Puslinch spoke with the Advertiser about volunteer opportunities and benefits.

Willowcrest Farm

Willowcrest Farm is a lesson and boarding farm owned by Julie Diamond. There are 30 horses, goats, potbelly pigs, chickens, cats and dogs.

Julie and Audrey Hunter are a mother and daughter who volunteer at Willowcrest.

“It’s always just fun to hangout with the horses,” 14-year-old Audrey said. “Once you get to know the horses it gets even more fun because you start to get to know all their quirks.”

Audrey has been visiting the barn since she was three years old, and started volunteering at 12.

The horses can sometimes be pretty silly, she said, making memorable moments.

“This one horse we have named

Cricket – one day there was a cat that walked by in the arena and [Cricket] was in a goofy mood, and he just leaned down and licked the cat,” Audrey laughed.

The Hunters muck stalls, turn horses in and out, fill feed and water buckets, and help with farm maintenance like repairing fences and raking the arena.

Audrey also grooms the horses, helps with summer camps, and prepares horses for lessons on Saturdays, during which she leads the beginner riders.

Julie Hunter said their love for Julie Diamond led the Hunters to volunteer: “We love her and she needed help.” Hunter said. “Nobody succeeds alone, right?”

Willowcrest “is just so good for the kids and for the animals,” she added, and “we feel really strongly that it’s important to give back to your community – and [Julie Diamond] does so much for the community.”

“I started riding with Julie when I was four or five,” Audrey said, and “Julie does so much for us so I wanted to help her out.”

Audrey said volunteering at Willowcrest has strengthened her work ethic, as it’s crucial to ensure the horses’ needs are met.

Julie Hunter learns a lot during her time volunteering at Willowcrest too – “I know more about horses than I ever, ever thought I would,” she said, and it’s also a great workout.

Volunteering at Willowcrest is a bonding experience for Audrey and her mom, as it gives them time together and something in common.

Audrey has also formed strong friendships with peers at Willowcrest.

Julie said “everytime you go out there, you leave and feel like you’ve accomplished something – big or small … I never walk away and think ‘oh that was a waste of my time.’”

The work can range from getting a messy barn into spick-and-span condition or something more significant – like when the neighbour’s horses got loose.

“If we hadn’t been there to catch them, what would have happened?” Julie pondered.

To enquire about volunteering at Willowcrest Farm, email Julie Diamond at willowcrest2008@gmail. com. Volunteers at Willowcrest need prior experience with horses. HorseDay Erin and the Erin Fall Fair

Bridget Ryan has lived and volunteered in Erin for 25 years. She’s the founder of Equine Erin, the organization that hosts HorseDay Erin, and the associate director of the Erin Agricultural Society, which organizes the Erin Fall Fair.

Both annual events depend on volunteers, and volunteering is a “good way to create community and create connections,” Ryan said. It’s also “a good way to share skills, and it helps get the job done.”

Ryan said many locals “get teary eyed when they talk about [the Erin Fall Fair]. It’s been going since 1850 and has a long history of bringing communities together and showcasing rural lifestyles.”

The fair is Oct. 6 to 9, but volunteers are needed from Oct. 5 to 10 for set up and tear down.

The fair has more than 100 volunteers, with some bringing heritage draft horses, ponies, donkeys and other animals with them to the fair.

In previous years the fair has been 100% volunteer run, but this year hired a fair manager – Joanne Gregson.

“Joanne gave back for many years as a volunteer,” Ryan said, and her new position as fair manager is “a win-win for the fair because she has such a depth of knowledge.”

Volunteer roles include the organizing committee, distributing marketing materials, setting up for the event, and tearing down afterwards.

Next year, HorseDay Erin will take place on June 1 at the Erin fairgrounds.

HorseDay Erin is an annual event that “would not run without 30 plus volunteers,” Ryan said.

WELLINGTON COUNTY –

Long ears – Equine enthusiast and donkey wrangler, Taylor Valentine, driving her mini donkey, Chip. Valentine and Chip often participate in local events, promoting mini donkeys, and other long-ears. Submitted photo

Hoof Heroes: The farriers who keep horses on surefooted ground

By Chris Zimmerman WELLINGTON COUNTY

– For decades, Paul Fischbach has quietly dedicated himself to a craft that is essential for the well-being of our equine companions: farriery.

When asked about his tenure in the field, a simple response was given: “About 30 years now.”

This unassuming statement serves as a testament to his profound knowledge and proficiency as a farrier, a vocation centered around the creation and fitting of horseshoes.

Fischbach explained the fundamental purpose of horseshoes, stating, “We put horseshoes on horses’ feet to protect them from excessive wear and tear.”

He highlighted their role in providing traction for various activities, from urban patrols on asphalt, to plowing contests.

Farriers also play a crucial role in adjusting and improving a horse’s gait and hoof health.

When it comes to ensuring the right fit, Fischbach compared the importance to the comfort of a well-fitted shoe for humans.

“If our shoe is too loose, we

step on it and can pull the shoe right off our feet,” he said.

“If a horse loses shoes constantly, we start making the shoe smaller until it stays on.”

As hooves grow, farriers make corresponding adjustments to ensure a snug fit.

Challenges in the profession can vary with each horse. Younger, impatient horses may pose difficulties, as they need time to adapt to shoeing.

Farriers like Fischbach adopt strategies to ease horses into the process.

Over the course of his career, Fischbach has witnessed remarkable changes in horseshoe quality and craftsmanship.

If a horse loses shoes constantly, we start making the shoe smaller until it stays on. “

“

- Paul Fischbach

“The quality in horseshoe making has improved tremendously,” he noted.

He attributed this improvement to both dedicated farriers who continuously hone their skills and advancements

in manufacturing technology. Fischbach shared a valuable insight, emphasizing that not all horses require shoes. He advocated for a balanced

approach, only fitting shoes when necessary, especially for horses involved in strenuous work or walking on harsh surfaces.

four-legged friends.

Fischbach’s dedication and passion for this ancient craft continue to contribute to the health and performance of our

Horseshoe – Farrier Paul Fischbach demonstrating his craft at the Fergus Fall Fair. Photos by Chris Zimmerman

Fergus trail ride raises funds for Hospice Wellington

By Robin George

FERGUS – Horseback riders in Centre Wellington will crunch through the autumn leaves again this October to raise funds for Hospice Wellington.

Hooves for Hospice is an annual trail ride through Fergus countryside organized by Lynn Smillie and her husband Peter Creighton.

Last year, the event raised $10,000 for Hospice Wellington, and in 2021 it raised $9,500.

This year the ride takes place on Oct. 14, rain or shine, and the goal is to raise another $10,000.

“It’s just a nice thing to do for Hospice Wellington,” Smillie said, and “we do really well … for such a small grassroots event.”

Between 50 and 60 riders participate each year, collecting pledges to sponsor their ride.

“It’s a beautiful ride,” Smillie said, through eight

private farms donated by her neighbours. “We are really blessed” to have such generous neighbours, she added.

There are three groups of riders: one walking group, one group that walks and trots, and one group that goes the furthest distance and includes “lots of big canters,” she noted.

The walking group is a great opportunity for a chill and relaxing ride, Smillie said.

After the ride, which usually lasts about two hours, Smillie and Creighton provide a hot chili buffet for the riders to enjoy.

Smillie has been motivated to organize the fundraiser since she lost her father, James Smillie, to cancer six years ago.

“We do this in his memory – he inspired me to do this,” Smillie said.

The volunteers that show up to support the event include representatives from the Ontario Standardbred Adoption Society and the

Ontario Special Services Mounted Unit.

Hospice Wellington also sends out “an army” of volunteers, Smillie said, so no more volunteers are needed for the event, but there is still lots of space for more riders.

Horse owners over 18 years old can register online at hoovesforhospice.ca until Oct.

6. Space is limited. Helmets and OEF/CRHRA coverage are required.

People can also participate remotely by collecting pledges to sponsor a ride closer to their home, instead of trailering their horse out for the group rides.

Remote riders can send photos to hoovesforhospice22@ gmail.com to be included on the website.

People can also donate directly by visiting hospicewellington.akaraisin.com/ui/ Hooves2023.

For more information, visit hoovesforhospice.ca.

Equine Guelph offers tuition awards

By Robin George

GUELPH – Equine enthusiasts and professionals can develop their skills through online programs and courses offered through Equine Guelph.

There are two tuition awards available to offset some of the costs: the Roger L’Heureux Memorial Equine Award and the Stuart Stocks Memorial Equine Award.

Recipients will be chosen for their demonstrated love of horses, commitment to horse welfare and racing, and a desire to learn more about horses and shows.

Both awards cover the full cost of two online courses in Equine Science, Equine Welfare, or Equine Business –a total value of $1,098.

Six courses must be completed to earn a certificate.

Roger L’Heureux Memorial Equine Award

The Roger L’Heureux Memorial Equine Award was established by David L’Heureux and Cyrstal Fountains Inc.

Roger L’Heureux was a Standardbred driver, trainer and groom, and the son of

Ephraim L’Heureux, the first Standardbred driver to win the Maple Leaf Trot at Woodbine Racetrack in 1950. Applications are open to University of Guelph students and Standardbred grooms and trainers in Canada. Preference will be given to industry professionals.

Applicants can email a 250word letter explaining why they are deserving of the award to eginfo@uoguelph.ca by Nov. 30, with an optional reference letter from the Standardbred racing sector.

Stuart Stocks Memorial Equine Award

This award was created by the Stocks family, in memory of their brother, son and uncle

Stuart Stocks.

Stocks was born in Sheffield, England in 1957, where his love of horses started at an early age. He faced a multitude of medical issues with a zest for life and dry sense of humour.

Stocks never rode a horse or laid a bet, but he followed horse racing on television and was knowledgeable about racehorses. After his death detailed written notes made throughout his life were found – a testament to his love of horses and horse racing.

Applications are open to grooms with valid groom licenses for horse racing in Ontario.

Applicants can email a 250

to 500 word letter explaining why they are deserving of the award, with an optional reference letter from a racing employer (current or past) or other racing industry professional. For more information about the awards visit equineguelph. ca/education/tuition_awards. php.

Hooves for Hospice – Lynn Smillie, left and Murray Grein riding in last year’s Hooves for Hospice fundraiser. Submitted photo

Equine enthusiasts recognize Senior Horse Education Month

By Chris Zimmerman WELLINGTON

COUNTY– When people think about horses, some tend to envision stallions leaping over obstacles, sprinting toward the finish line at the racetrack, or taking in fresh air as they casually trot through pastures along any number of rural roads.

While society often celebrates youth and vigour, it’s easy to overlook the wisdom and grace that comes with age. This September, horse enthusiasts and equestrians in Wellington County are celebrating senior horses.

As horses age, their care needs evolve, requiring specialized knowledge to ensure their well-being. One of the primary goals of the Equine Guelph Centre and Senior Horse Education Month is to raise awareness about the unique needs of aging horses.

Unlike their younger counterparts, senior horses may require different feeding regimens, exercise routines and veterinary care.

Communications and administration officer Jackie Bellamy-Zions said there is no standard age at which a horse becomes “senior.”

“Some horses are still in great shape and health at age 18, while others may be showing age-related changes to their conformation and health,” she explained.

“Differences in aging may be due to breed, previous use and/or individual variability.

“It’s important to treat each horse as an individual and to keep careful records of their health and condition over time. As a guideline, 18 to 20 years is when you should consider a horse to be entering their senior years.”

People often think of weight loss and poor body condition as indicators or a side effect of old age in horses. However, age is not a cause for weight loss.

“If a senior horse has a poor body condition score and/or if weight loss is occurring, it is extremely important to have your veterinarian out for a full physical exam to rule out underlying health issues,” Bellamy-Zions said.

“On the other end of the spectrum, overweightness and obesity are associated with the development of unfavourable metabolic changes and increased disease risk. It is important to restore an ideal body condition in these horses.”

Dr. Bettina Bobsien is the course instructor for Equine Guelph’s short online Senior Horse course. Bobsien says, “Old age is not a disease. Aging should never be used as an excuse to allow health issues to continue when treatment options are available that can improve quality of life.”

“Getting thin should not be accepted as a normal part of aging. It’s a red flag to change management strategies,” Bellamy-Zions added.

“Whether it is a change to softer feed or an elder horse not being able to access its fair share of feed in the herd, changes in management need to be considered with every new challenge. Schedule a veterinary visit to rule out underlying problems and for nutritional advice.”

Beyond medical care, senior horses benefit greatly from appropriate exercise and mental stimulation. Riding may become less frequent, but activities like gentle groundwork, hand-walking and equine-assisted therapy can help keep these animals engaged and content.

Education is at the core of Senior Horse Education Month and many equestrian organizations, equine veterinarians and horse enthusiasts offer workshops, webinars and informational resources to help senior horse owners navigate the challenges of equine aging gracefully.

An unbridled bond

Wellington County resident Katie Clark has been living on a farm and caring for horses for the last seven years. Along with her property, she inherited a standardbred horse named Joe, which had been rescued from a farm in Quebec in the early 90s.

Because he didn’t make a good trotter horse, Joe spent most of his life riding around the property and was in his early 30s when Clark became his primary caregiver.

“I learned having a routine with Joe was best,” Clark said in a Sept.18 interview.

“He’d spend as much time outside in the field grazing as possible, but would still have a warm, comfy stall to rest in.”

Clark noted that keeping his weight up was always a challenge. She found that as Joe aged, adding bran oil to his diet, along with a glucosamine supplement and providing him with a daily arthritis medication, helped maintain his health and weight. She also had a “cloud” floor installed in the barn, which is essentially a cushioned, rubber floor.

At first Joe was the only horse on the farm, but a few years later, she found a younger rescue horse named Grumpy Jake and the two became fast friends. Jake not only kept Joe company but also kept him active and moving around the field.

“The biggest thing I learned was that we couldn’t baby Joe too much even though he was approaching his late 30s. Even when bad weather would come, it was always better he spend time outside. The longer he would stay inside the more he would stiffen up,” Clark said.

Between hay, grain, medication and, in Joe’s case, biannual massages, keeping an older horse can be costly. In spite of these costs, Clark said the benefits far outweigh the cost.

“Joe was very special,” she said.

“He was kind and gentle, was great with little kids and even with adults who maybe didn’t have much horse interaction. You learn to take each day as it comes and do the best you can.”

On a warm and sunny January day in 2022, Joe laid down in the field to sunbathe. Sadly, he didn’t get back up. Turning 38 that year, he decided that he was ready to go to his favourite sunning spot. With help from neighbours, Clark spent hours trying to lift him back onto his feet.

“He was tired. We were tired,” Clark recalled.

“I knew by the way he looked at me, he was ready to go.”

“The vet came, and we said our goodbyes as Joe crossed the rainbow bridge with his best bud Jake by his side. You devote your life to them. It can be tiring, but it’s so worth it. I have never had the connection I had with an animal like I did with Joe.”

As a prey animal, horses are masters at hiding pain.

For

Sometimes it takes a very observant horse person to pick up on subtle cues.

Equine Guelph’s free healthcare tool, The Senior Horse Challenge, is full of helpful resources including new research on equine facial grimace scores and pain checklists.

more information visit equineguelph.ca.

Basking in the sun - Joe is seen posing for the camera as he enjoys a summer day at home. Photo by Katie Clark

Seniors - Equine Guelph offers a short online course and free healthcare tool for senior horse owners.

Photo by Henrietta Coole

Volunteering with horses is rewarding

CONTINUED FROM PG 19

Equine enthusiast and donkey wrangler Taylor Valentine has volunteered regularly at both HorseDay Erin and the Erin Fall Fair.

She brings her donkeys, challenging misconceptions.

“I really love educating people about these wonderful, misunderstood animals,” Valentine said, and she’s “trying to fight all of the old wives’ tales and myths around them.”

“They are really like a big dog,” Valentine said, and once given a chance to meet them “a lot of people really and truly love them.”

Valentine finds volunteering rewarding, and her donkey Chip does too – “There’s nothing a donkey loves more than getting attention all day.”

Valentine assures “you don’t need to have a lot of money to do this kind of volunteering, you just need the passion!

“I don’t own a farm, I work a regular full time job, but it’s so worth spending my time doing this kind of outreach. Any bit of difference I can make to improve the welfare for donkeys and mules, and any smile we can put a face on is all worth it!”

People interested in volunteering at the Erin Fall Fair or HorseDay Erin can email Ryan at equineerin@gmail.com.

Sunrise Therapeutic Riding & Learning Centre

Sunrise was founded by Ann Caine in the 1970s, with a few horses and a dream to support disabled children with equine therapy.

The centre has grown into a year-round facility with a climate controlled arena and 23 horses, depending on over 200 volunteers to offer camps, riding lessons, and other programs for children and adults with special needs.

FROM

Volunteers join horses and riders on a

“We could not run Sunrise or any other therapeutic riding without volunteers,” said volunteer coordinator Fiona Ryder in an interview with the Advertiser out on the farm on a warm, late-summer day.

Most volunteers walk with a horse and rider during lessons – one leading the horse and one walking alongside the rider.

“It’s such a safe environment for kids to learn how to ride,” said longtime volunteer Martha Collins.

Collins completed her volunteer training in 1987, as “a way to be with horses and help out kids as well.”

I just liked the environment at Sunrise, so I stuck with it.”

Laura Bailey began volun-

years ago because she “wanted that horse connection again,” after having horses earlier in her life.

Collins and Bailey mostly lead horses during lessons, but also do some side-walking as needed.

Sunrise provides training for volunteers, but Ryder said the leaders are people with prior experience with horses.

No experience is necessary for side-walkers, just confidence walking beside a large animal. And “sidewalking is just as important as leading,” Ryder noted.

Leaders and side walkers commit to one session at a time (volunteering two hours a week for eight-12 week periods). This commitment provides consistency for the riders,

who often look forward to seeing the volunteers each week.

“People come out for the horses,” Ryder said, “but they stay for the kids.”

Volunteers see how therapeutic riding impacts the students, who gain confidence, strength and skill.

“And it makes them so happy,” Collins added. “Most of the kids at the end of every lesson are just so happy.”

“I didn’t realize how much of an impact it would have,” Bailey said, but it was eye opening seeing how the students progress and their expressions when they learn something new.

“You see them open up, or start to smile or laugh,” Bailey added.

And the students aren’t the only ones benefiting – “the volunteers gain almost as much as the clients do,” Ryder said, with many starting at Sunrise with entry-level abilities and eventually “becoming quite an expert.”

The exercise is a benefit too – “You are going to get your step in, that’s for sure,” Ryder said.

Some volunteers do “light housekeeping in the barn,” Ryder said, including sweeping and mucking stalls, and others work in the office, sometimes stuffing envelopes with newsletters.

There are further volunteer opportunities in the Sunrise gardens.

Corporate groups visit the farm to volunteer together, taking on pre-planned projects such as painting, weeding, or mucking out shelters.

To apply to volunteer, email Ryder at fiona@sunrisetherapeutic.ca. Volunteers must be at least 14 years old. For more information about Sunrise, visit sunrise-therapeutic.ca.

TOP LEFT GOING CLOCKWISE - Volunteer Audrey Hunter bringing Monty into the barn for the night at Willowcrest Farm;