Equine Special Edition April 25, 2014

EQUINE

Kentucky Derby hopeful has local roots

Foaled near Belwood, We Miss Artie is Derby bound

Special Feature of The Wellington Advertiser ~ April 25, 2014

page 2 | equine

Centre Wellington Equine Trade Show is this weekend FERGUS - Horse lovers from across the region will once again be gathering to swap, sell and buy their wares at the Centre Wellington Equine Trade Show from 9am to 3pm on April 27.

Over 100 vendors and 750 spectators filled the sportsplex in Fergus at last

year’s event, and organizers are hoping for equal success this time around.

A wide range of items will be available for sale, including apparel, fences and enclosures. There will also be demonstrations and information sessions on equine care.

Admission is free (ven-

dor spaces start at $30) and proceeds from the event support the Fergus and District Kinsmen club, the Trail Ride for Breast Cancer, and the Sunrise Therapeutic Riding and Learning Centre in Puslinch Township.

For more information visit www.cwetradeshow.com.

Grand River Raceway unveils season schedule

ELORA - Grand River Raceway’s live harness racing season will consist of 48 dates in 2014.

The recent announcement from the Ontario Racing Commission confirmed race dates for nine standardbred tracks in the province.

During its 11th season, the Elora oval will race Monday and Wednesday nights at 6:30pm from June 2 to Sept. 29.

The track’s signature Fun & Frivolity Friday race nights are featured from June 6 to Sept. 5 at 6:30pm.

There are two exceptions to this: no racing on Aug. 22; and a 1:30pm post-time on Aug. 4.

Grand River Raceway is one of eight racetracks in the Standardbred Alliance — a newly formed structure within the Horse Racing Partnership Plan announced by the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Food.

The Alliance members represent a three-tier racing hierarchy, “Grass Roots’” (Clinton, Hanover), “Signature” (Flamboro Downs, Georgian, Grand River and Western Fair) and “Premier” (Mohawk and Woodbine).

Open house The week before racing season begins, Grand River Raceway will host its sixth annual backstretch open

house. On May 25, guests are invited to drop-in any time from 11am to 2pm for a glimpse behind-the-scenes and the opportunity to drive a racehorse. Admission is free.

meet their horse.

Takeout rates In 2013, Grand River Raceway made major reductions (totaling 23 per cent) to its take-out rates. Those rates remain intact for this season, giving the half-miler one of the most attractive take-out structures in North America.

Fun & Frivolity Friday Nights The crew from 107.5 DAVE FM will broadcast live from the tarmac every Friday night all summer.

Kids will enjoy the “NEIGHbourhood,” an interactive horse education program held under the Tarmac Tent from 7 to 9pm.

Opening night June 2 is opening night (post time is 6:30pm) and marks the fifth annual Local Biz Night, presented in cooperation with the Centre Wellington Chamber of Commerce.

The event hosts more than 150 local businesspeople who are then paired with a horse in the Local Biz Night Race.

Before the dash, guests attend a cocktail reception hosted by OLG Slots at Grand River Raceway, followed by dinner and the chance to

Industry Day Grand River Raceway features its 24th annual Industry Day Celebration on Aug. 4 at 1:30pm. The popular afternoon card features the 17th annual Battle Of Waterloo and the sixth annual Battle Of The Belles.

Race night buffet A re-vamped $16.99 buffet will be featured every race night in the Captain’s Quarters tiered dining room overlooking the racetrack.

Group bookings are filling quickly - reserve by calling 519-846-5455 ext. 247.

COVER PHOTO: Jockey John Velazquez delivered We Miss Artie to a win at the $400,000 Dixiana Breeders’ Futurity on Oct. 5, 2013 at Keeneland race track in Lexington, Kentucky. photo by Mathea Kelley

Equine | Page 3

Grandview Farms the birthplace of next Kentucky Derby hopeful

by Kelly Waterhouse BELWOOD - It’s been 50 years since the now-famous Canadian-bred thoroughbred Northern Dancer earned his place in history as the first Canadian-born horse to win the Kentucky Derby.

And now, with the stage being set for the May 3 running of the 140th edition of the prestigious race, another Canadian-raised horse will be among the pack: We Miss Artie, born near Belwood on Grandview Farms.

“We Miss Artie, sired by Artie Schiller, was foaled and raised here on the farm,” said Mike Carroll, owner of the 100-acre farm that borders Wellington and Dufferin Counties.

He started Grandview Farms in 1993, and says the property is home to approximately 25 broodmares at any time, with roughly 50 horses total on the farm.

“We are a thoroughbred breeding farm, a broodmare

operation,” he explained, noting that as a breeder he has input on the stallion selection process.

“We foal and raise the horses, either for sale or for racing, and manage the horses completely for the owners.”

jumpers. That’s my passion.

It never leaves you,” he said.

That passion transferred into a career with a resume that begins with work for famed racehorse owner and tycoon Robert Sangster, before taking on the role

“I got interested in thoroughbreds and one thing just led to another.”

- Mike Carroll, on his journey from newcomer to renowned horse breeder Carroll’s career in the industry began early. An avid equestrian rider in his youth, competing in the ‘A’ Circuit of Hunter Jumper class, he was raised around horses.

“I got interested in thoroughbreds and one thing just led to another,” Carroll said, admitting he rarely attends races. He is more apt to take part in horse show events.

“I really like hunters and

of foreman in the broodmare division of Canada’s renowned Windfields Farm in Oshawa, owned by Canadian business magnate E.P. Taylor, and birthplace of the great Northern Dancer. Carroll worked there from 1980 to 1988.

“It was a great experience, because it was busy. We would be foaling 200 foals a year and had 600 horses in our

care,” Carroll said, noting he had an opportunity to meet Northern Dancer once during his time with the organization.

The work at Windfields Farm encouraged him to begin his own operation on a much smaller scale, beginning with a farm in Campbellville, before he headed to the Belwood area.

One of Carroll’s career highlights came through the breeding of Maryfield, a champion racehorse, an honour he shared with former business partner John C. Harvey, Jr. In her championship season, Maryfield won the Grade 2 Distaff Breeders’ Cup Handicap at Aqueduct and the Grade 1 Ballerina Stakes at Saratoga. She also earned the 2007 Eclipse Award for Outstanding Female Sprinter.

But it was her upset victory on a sloppy track at Monmouth in 2007 in the Continued on next page

New arrival - Mike Carroll, owner of Grandview Farms, a thoroughbred broodmare operation near Belwood, tends to one of the new thoroughbred foals born in the past few weeks.

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Local farm renowned for work with champion horses “We’ve been lucky. We’ve Churchill Downs track record FROM PREVIOUS PAGE inaugural running of the raised a number of good hors- for most wins by an owner.

“He is also the Winterbook Breeders’ Cup Filly and Mare es here,” Carroll said.

That’s an understatement, favourite to win the Queen’s Sprint that made the horse a true champion. She earned the considering just two years Plate in Canada,” Carroll said.

We Miss Artie is listed as win racing from the back of ago Grandview Farms foaled the pack, five wide at the top and raised We Miss Artie and the 4-1 favourite in the race, of the stretch, to a half-length another champion in Go which leads to the Canadian Triple Crown.

Greeley. victory over Miraculous Miss.

Carroll isn’t sure if he’ll “We had two major horses “It was a pretty special day, I’ll tell you that,” Carroll said, out of that foal crop,” Carroll be there to see We Miss Artie cross the finish line, as it’s recalling the Breeders’ Cup said.

Go Greeley was named foaling season and things on win. “It’s beyond your wildest dreams. You never think the Canadian Two Year- the farm are busy, with at least it can happen to a little guy Old Male Champion at the one foal scheduled to arrive from Belwood. It just goes to Sovereign Awards ceremony near derby day on May 3.

Carroll credits his farm show you should never give held on April 11 at Woodbine assistant Harry OudeVossar Racetrack. up on your dreams.” for helping make Carroll and the work manageHarvey Jr. were able. awarded the 2007 “He’s a great Breeder of the Year guy who grew up Award through around horses in the Canadian Holland,” Carroll Thoroughbred said. “I couldn’t Horse Society. do this without Noting he paid Harry.” $10,000 for her sire, Recognizing it’s it was a bargain for - Mike Carroll on the success of Maryfield a difficult time in a horse that would, the horse industry, at the height of her “We Miss Artie recent- Carroll’s goal is to maintain career, be sold by her owners ly won the $550,000 take his standards for breeding for $1.25 million.

“Maryfield was one of only in the (Horseshoe Casino quality horses.

“Most farms are strugfour Canadian-bred horses to Cincinnati) Spiral Stakes at win the Breeders’ Cup in the Turfway Park in Kentucky,” gling, but we just try to do things right. We have really United States,” Carroll said. Carroll said.

We Miss Artie is out of good owners,” Carroll said.

“She was a major race horse.”

Maryfield, with a lifetime Athena’s Gift, a Fusaichi “When a good horse leaves record of 9-5-1 in 28 starts and Pegasus mare. The Grade 2 your farm, that becomes your earnings of $1,334,331, was Spiral Stakes win increased best advertisement.”

Carroll says the best part of inducted into the Canadian his earnings to $609,000 and his record to three wins and his work comes at the end of Horse Racing Hall of Fame.

We want to hear each day, when it’s less about Carroll also bred Mrs. two seconds in eight starts.

The horse, bred by Richard the work and more about the Began, winner of you! the 2007 from Princess Elizabeth Stakes Lister and trained by Todd love for horses.

“It’s the quiet time with held annually at Woodbine Pletcher, is owned by Ken and Race Track, a purse of Sarah Ramsay, an American the horses, on a one-to-one THIS ISwith EXACTLY HOW $250,000.

YOUR AD WILL APPEAR IN couple who last year broke the basis,” he said.

“It’s beyond your wildest dreams. You never think it can happen to a little guy from Belwood.

Big win - Elvis Trujillo rode Maryfield to victory at the Breeder’s Cup Filly and Mare Sprint on Oct. 26, 2007 at Monmouth park. The horse was bred by local breeder Mike Carroll. submitted photo

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Equine | Page 5

Clarke inducted into Canadian Horse Racing Hall of Fame

by Chris Daponte and Kris Svela ELORA - The man who was a driving force behind bringing the Grand River Raceway here is being recognized for his commitment and work in the horse-racing industry.

Veterinarian Ted Clarke, the unassuming general manager at the raceway, is being inducted into the Canadian Horse Racing Hall of Fame.

It’s one of the highest honours bestowed by the industry, but like most things, Clarke greets the news in his typical low-key fashion.

“It was probably a surprise more than anything,” Clarke said of his induction. “It’s certainly a marvelous honour.”

However, he added the honour cannot be solely attributed to his own work in the industry, which spans some 40 years.

“As much as it’s an individual honour, it was aided and abetted by staff and contemporaries,” Clarke said of those he feels should share the honour. “There were a great number of people who did a great deal to help.”

Kathy Wade Vlaar, chair of the hall of fame’s standardbred election committee, said despite Clarke’s “humble” nature, he is a deserving inductee.

“He’s certainly one of the most respected individuals in Canadian racing,” said Wade Vlaar. “He sincerely cares about the industry and he does everything in his power to ensure it has a healthy future.”

“In his own quiet way, he’s a visionary.”

Hall of Famer - Dr. Ted Clarke, general manager of the Grand River Raceway in Elora, will be inducted this summer into the Canadian Horse Racing Hall of Fame. photo by Kris Svela

Clarke has worked recently during the difficult process of restructuring the industry after the provincial government announced an end to its Slots at Racetrack revenue program. The program was halted in late 2012, throwing the industry into turmoil.

Clarke said the work to restore a financial footing for the horse racing industry has seen those involved working together to come up with a formula that will ensure the industry’s future, including the formation of the Standardbred Alliance,

which consists of eight tracks: Woodbine, Mohawk, Flamboro Downs, Georgian Downs, Western Fair, Clinton, Hanover and Grand River.

The partners have agreed to work together to co-ordinate a year-round racing calendar and establish consistent purse levels.

The provincial government has committed $100 million annually to the industry over the next five years. The money will be divided among the province’s race tracks depending on their size.

At Grand River it means

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Clarke downplays con- daily.

- and with average winnings Clarke’s colleague Hugh of about $65,000 per race in a cerns raised during that time, 48-race schedule, that means saying only “there was a pro- Mitchell, CEO of the Western a shortfall of about $2 mil- tracted debate with the OMB Fair Association, mentioned “four C’s” to sum up Clarke’s lion. The additional money and courts.”

“They very clearly wanted contributions to the horse will come from slot revenue.

“There’s money going something that wasn’t cheap racing industry: commitment, to purses from para-mutu- and glitzy, something that cleverness, character and caral sources - the machines,” was more reflective of the ing.

“In his own quiet Clarke said in an interway, he’s a visionary,” view at the track. said Mitchell. “His “Can it work? That integrity is beyond still remains to be seen,” reproach ... [and] he said of the industry’s he’s demonstrated a future. “We think the sincere caring for all concept is solid. I think - Hugh Mitchell, on Dr. Ted Clarke stakeholders.” everybody is pretty sure For Clarke, his it will go.”

In his 40 years in the community,” he said of pub- efforts are just about working within an industry he has industry, Clarke has seen his lic concerns.

“It was a long and frustrat- enjoyed since he first started share of controversy.

When he was hired by ing process (that) had some as a veterinarian and had his own race horses. the Grand River Agriculture value.”

“It seemed to be fun,” he Since it started operating Society to manage the Elora track and see it through its in late December 2003, the said of his initial entry into planning stages, Clarke track and slots have generated the industry.

Clarke will be officially helped guide it through an considerable annual revenue inducted into the Canadian Ontario Municipal Board for Centre Wellington.

Grand River, according to Horse Racing Hall of Fame hearing and a final Ontario Court of Appeal ruling in late Ontario Lottery and Gaming on Aug. 6 at the Mississauga 2001 that paved the way for Corporation figures, attracts convention centre.

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page 6 | equine

Richard Moreau recognized as Trainer of the Year

by Kris Svela PUSLINCH - In harnessracing, Richard Moreau’s name has hit the inner circle.

The transplanted Quebecer, who established his modern 50-acre horsetraining facility in Puslinch Township, was recently named Trainer of the Year by Standardbred Canada at its 2013 O’Brien awards.

Moreau is proud of the award, but not the public notoriety surrounding a year that saw his horses capture $3,625,680 in purse winnings for their owners.

He was chosen as Trainer of the Year based on votes from public relations and media professionals who cover harness racing, said Jeff Renton, website news editor with Standardbred Canada.

Moreau’s stable posted 279 race wins to earn harness racing’s top purse ranking.

He also earned training titles across Ontario at Georgian Downs, Grand River Raceway, Mohawk Racetrack, The Raceway at Western Fair District and Woodbine Racetrack.

Moreau topped the Canadian trainer standings with $3.5 million in earnings and 270 wins.

He celebrated the biggest win of his career this past season when Boomboom Ballykeel captured the Metro Pace at Mohawk Racetrack.

“The highlight of my season last year was at Mohawk,” he said in a recent interview.

The victory meant the horse’s owner received a $341,500 purse or 50 percent of the total winnings.

Winnings are divided between the five top-placing horses with the fifth place receiving 5% of the total purse.

The 2013 season marked the 14th consecutive year Moreau’s stable has surpassed the $1-million mark in purse

“It’s a goal that I’ve tried to reach.

Now that I have, I’ll just turn the page and ... wait for 5,000.”

- Richard Moreau, on reaching 4,000 wins as a trainer It was in September that Boomboom Ballykeel’s posted an upset victory to take top spot in the $683,000 Metro Pace final at the track.

“A major stakes win was about the only thing missing on trainer Richard Moreau’s CV (curriculum vitae),” noted a news release from Standardbred Canada after the win.

earnings.

In January 2013 he celebrated his 4,000th training triumph after a pair of his pupils - Amazing Quest and Windsun T Bird - entered the winner’s circle.

“I’ve been waiting for this for a long time,” Moreau, then 48, said at the time.

“It’s a goal that I’ve tried to reach. Now that I have, I’ll just

turn the page and hopefully wait for 5,000.”

Moreau joined Hillsburgh’s Jeff Gillis as one of three finalists for the 2012 O’Brien Award as Canada’s top trainer.

Also in 2012, Moreau captured his second Woodbine Entertainment Group (WEG) training title, with 132 victories.

He was also the leading dash winner at Georgian Downs and Grand River Raceway.

Throughout his career Moreau’s troops have amassed over $31.6 million in purses.

He downplays the winnings, of which his business gets a small percentage, noting instead his facility is among many first-class training facilities in the area.

He was a tenant for several years at the training facility next door to his, owned by Jamie and Barb Millier.

“Richard was a tenant at Top trainer - Richard Moreau with five-year-old racer Twin B our farm, Classy Lane Stables, Impressive. photo by Kris Svela for a few years before purchasing his own farm,” Jamie Millier said of Moreau.

The stable can handle horses each, depending on “Richard was a great tenant and learned a lot about about 50 horses at its peak how many are being housed.

Moreau said he looks formaintaining a track and train- times, but usually has about ward daily to the time when ing facility while he was here. 30.

“I don’t own these hors- the horses are “turned out” to He has since built his farm into a beautiful facility. We es,” Moreau said. “I offer my pasture.

The farm was purchased were sorry to see him leave, services for the owner of the but very happy for him that horse, train and get them five years ago from a foreign ready to race.” owner who experienced finanhe had his own place.” want to hear“The better you do, the cial difficulty and was forced Moreau hasWe 10 employees to sell. working for him, with frommost you! more business,” he added.

The horses are groomed, Moreau chose the location days starting early as horses arrive at the stable or are pre- fed and trained with stable because it is a short distance workers taking on about five THIS IS EXACTLY HOW pared for the day.

Continued on next page

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Equine | Page 7

Trailering with safety in mind

Moreau: Puslinch area quiet, convenient and ‘good for horses’ FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

from Highway 6, but also for its easy and close access to a number of racetracks. That means less travel for horses on race day. “It’s well situated,� he said of the facility. “The main thing about here is it’s quiet, relaxing and good for the horses.�

Most evenings he can be found at a racetrack, watching the horses he has trained compete. It’s all part of running a business he has carved out from scratch. “I race every night,� he said.

The trainer is confident

the horse racing industry is strong enough to weather the difficulties brought on by the provincial government’s cancellation of its Revenue from Slots program that provided purse money to tracks. “They have to adjust,� he added, referring to changes in funding and how the industry promotes itself.

That success will hinge on those involved: owners, trainers, drivers, tracks and associated businesses and organizations working together.

He hopes his stable can help horse owners make their “dreams come true� in producing purse-winning horses.

GUELPH – As a horse owner, it’s likely that it will be necessary to trailer your horse.

Whether it’s a short distance to nearby trails or several hours’ drive to a competition, with a bit of care and attention, you can safely get your horse to where you’re going and minimize the possibility of any mishaps or stress.

Ensure that your horse has been trained to load and unload safely and calmly in advance. Planning ahead for any trip ensures the transportation process goes smoothly and is safe for both horse and handler.

Try to plan out the route ahead of time to avoid peak times in busy areas, sitting in traffic or inclement weather.

Also, horses should only be trailered if they are healthy.

Check and record your horse’s vital signs, such as temperature, respiration and pulse, as well as how much it drinks ahead of time. This provides important personal information as to what is normal for your horse and will assist in

spotting any problems on the day of travel and upon arrival.

Trailer Basics Make sure the trailer offers sufficient head room for the height of your horse. Too small a space will hinder your horse’s ability to move and balance itself.

Horses are also subject to the same laws and regulations as other animals during transport. The regulations cover areas such as allowable time without feed, water and rest, and using equipment that won’t cause injury.

Travel Emergencies Even with the best intentions, sometimes mechanical breakdowns or even accidents can occur.

Horse owners should inspect the trailer before every trip to make sure it is safe to operate and safely hitched to the truck. “Always check your trailer before starting out and recheck it after each stop, and always carry first aid kits for your horse, yourself, your vehicle and your trailer,� advises Michelle Staples, a

the equine athlete. The more widely we can publicize their findings the more likely their work will be put to use to find concrete solutions as a means to that end.�

The first episode is already available featuring an interview with Dr. Jeff Thomason and his study of race track surfaces and their impact on the performance horse. The results of the study could lead the way to newer, improved methods of therapy and preventative farrier techniques.

To listen to the first podcast, simply log on to EquineGuelph.ca. Click on the Research tab at the top of the page, then click Research Radio.

For more information contact Gayle Ecker gecker@ uoguelph.ca or 519-824-4120 #56678

Make every trip a positive experience by planning it out ahead of time to ensure that your horse arrives safe.

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know what to report to the 9-1-1 dispatcher. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Take note of where you are and advise them that emergency assistance is required and you may possibly require transport for your horse, and that you need a large animal veterinarian dispatched immediately,â&#x20AC;? she says. â&#x20AC;&#x153;While waiting, your first inclination is to open up the trailer and go in to help your horse, but thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an action that can get both you and your horse killed. An open door is an invitation for it to try and escape. Instead, find the smallest opening possible to peek in. Stay calm. Most horses survive rollovers if theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re in a well-maintained, sturdy trailer.â&#x20AC;?

When it comes to trailering, make every trip a positive experience by planning it out looking to the horse owner ahead of time to ensure that for guidance. Staying calm your horse arrives safe. Have a and quiet allows you to think contingency plan available to clearly in emergency situa- address unexpected difficulties. Learning to be proactive tions.

In the case of a trailer rather than reactive goes a rollover, Staples advises to long way toward minimizing check out all people and pets stressful situations for both you and your horse. travelling with you so you35$&7,&$/ 62/87,216 Horse Safety Specialist located in the Niagara Region of Ontario.

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page 8 | equine

Dutch harness horse a versatile breed with rich history

by Patrick Raftis MOOREFIELD â&#x20AC;&#x201C; After being involved in horse breeding for decades, Christine Bourne of Shady Rill Farm decided to devote the operation to Dutch harness horses a decade ago.

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a decision she has never looked back on.

After buying her first driving horse, a hackney cross, Bourne soon realized it was not the right breed for her farm, located just north of Moorefield.

After researching the Dutch harness breed, she fell in love with â&#x20AC;&#x153;their style and temperament and their trainability. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Also it goes with my Dutch heritage,â&#x20AC;? said Bourne, whose parents emigrated from Holland, a country she is planning to visit for the first time later this spring.

The handsome breed is often thought of as a Sunday driving horse, but Bourne points out, â&#x20AC;&#x153;they are such a versatile horse and they work very well for the dressage industry.â&#x20AC;?

As a breeding horse, Dutch harness are relatively new in North America, having been introduced in the past 12 to 15 years.

They were first imported to the United States in 2000, with stallions first included in the American Saddlebred Breeders Guide in 2001.

Since then, the breed has flourished in Canada and the United States, often being crossed to saddlebreds, Arabians, Morgans, Andalusians, national show horses and sport horses. The breed is currently represented by the American Dutch

Harness Horse Association (ADHHA).

However, in Europe, the breed has a rich history.

The Shady Rill Farms website points out the Dutch harness horse is one of the three breeding directions of the Royal Dutch Warmblood Studbook (KWPN).

â&#x20AC;&#x153;I tried my hand at combined driving and love it.

I wish more people would take up this great hobby.â&#x20AC;?

- Christine Bourne

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Warmblood breeding in the Netherlands is over a century old, during which period the breeding objective was constantly adapted,â&#x20AC;? the Shady Rill Farms website states. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In the past there was a high demand for agricultur-

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al horses, but many farmers wanted to own a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Sundayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; horse as well, so a more noble type of horse was produced, one that would move proudly and impressively in harness, with high carriage in front, which they could show off on their way to the market, the church or on family visits.â&#x20AC;?

Shady Rill added an inhouse stallion, Charmant, to the operation in 2008. â&#x20AC;&#x153;He has an amazing personality which he puts in his foals, along with his good looks,â&#x20AC;? states Bourne, adding Charmantâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s oldest foals are now turning four and starting in dressage, combined driving and pleasure driving.

While still home to some Tennessee walking horses, today Shady Rill boasts 10 pure KWPN-registered Dutch mares, including Rosalieni, who was a 2002 National Champion in Holland, and Calista, whose dam was a seven-time sport mare champion in Holland as well. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our oldest pure foals are now two and they look very promising,â&#x20AC;? notes Bourne.

Shady Rill also has saddlebred-Dutch crosses suitable for fine harness and saddle seat.

Bourne said Shady Rillâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s buyers come from all over North America, including New York, Florida, Alberta and Quebec.

Bourne started driving herself two years ago, participating in both dressage and combined driving, and is hoping the sport picks up in popularity in the region. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I tried my hand at combined driving and love it,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I wish more people would take up this great hobby.â&#x20AC;?

In harness - Christine Bourne, pictured at a dressage competition at Glencameron Farm near Limehouse last summer, says Dutch harness horses are a versatile and extremely trainable breed. submitted photo

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Equine leadership group releases economic impact report ORANGEVILLE - The Headwaters Equine Leadership Group (HELG) has just released a baseline report on the economic impact of the equine sector in the Headwaters region.

HELG is a committee of the Hills of Headwaters Tourism Association. It is a collaborative initiative with regional stakeholders who are committed to the importance of the equine sector in the Headwaters region, which includes Caledon, Dufferin,

the Town of Erin, and King Township.

The group’s main objective is to promote the Headwaters region as a centre of equine excellence in the province of Ontario, and to support, grow and advocate for this sector of the regional economy.

As noted in the HELG report, Headwaters Horse Country is home to over 23,000 horses, over 2,000 horse farms and hundreds of businesses that support these horses and their owners. It is

also home to four internationally-recognized event facilities, two of which are hosting equestrian events for the Toronto 2015 Pan American Games.

The report “conservatively” estimates the economic impact of the equine sector in the Headwaters to be a minimum of $100 million annually for ongoing operating costs with a further $300 million spent on property improvements, including barns and arenas and as investment in

Horse usage in Headwaters area

horses. It is also noted that much of this spending is locally-focussed, further emphasizing the sector’s importance to the local economy.

This report will be updated annually and is one of numerous initiatives being undertaken by HELG to support the development of the Headwaters region as a centre of equine excellence.

HELG and Headwaters Horse Country are supported by the Ontario Trillium Foundation.

Category

These figures were taken from the Vel Evans presentation entitled Harnessing Horsepower in the Hills of Headwaters: The State of the Horse Industry - Challenges and Opportunities that was delivered at the 2011 Hills of Headwaters Tourism Equine Forum. Evans is principal consultant at Strategic Equine Inc. and author of the State of the Industry Report 2010 (Equine Canada, 2011).

Total Horses Young Mature

Ontario

Equine | Page 9

Ready for spring?

With the arrival of spring, horse owners should watch out for “mud fever.”

Scratches, greasy heel, dew poisoning or dermatitis - no matter what you call it, it irritates a horse’s skin and like any bacterial infection, it has potential to do much deeper damage.

Exposing skin to wet conditions on a continual basis can result in a breakdown of the protective barrier of epidermis, allowing bacteria to invade and resulting in infection.

Small red ulcerations

The Region

212,500 (100%) 165,152 (100%) 46,750 (22%) 39,636 (24%) 165,750 (78%) 125,516 (76%)

of the skin can often be spotted at the back of the pastern signalling the beginning of this infection.

Other signs are scabbing, oozing of serum, loss of hair and inflammation.

To prevent mud fever provide clean, dry bedding in the stall and turn out in a well drained field.

Also turn out in a clean field free from mud and manure.

For the proper treatment procedures and tips view the mud fever information sheet at http:// www.equineguelph.ca.

Headwaters Horse Country 23,228

Racing

Sports Competition

Pleasure Riding and Driving

Breeding Stock

Riding Lessons

Commercial Trail Rides, etc.

Work

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Ontario 26,563 (13%) The Region 24,773 (15%) Headwater Horse Country 3,484

Ontario 43,350 (20%) The Region 29,727 (18%) Headwater Horse Country 4,181

Ontario 35,275 (17%) The Region 24,773 (15%) Headwater Horse Country 3,484

Ontario 30,175 (14%) The Region 28,076 (17%) Headwater Horse Country 3,949

Ontario 9,138 (4%) The Region 3,303 (2%) Headwater Horse Country 465

Ontario 1,488 (1%) The Region 712 (.40%) Headwater Horse Country 100

Ontario 1,913 (1%) The Region 652 (.40%) Headwater Horse Country 92

Ontario 13,388 (6%) The Region 11,561 (7%) Headwater Horse Country 1,626

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page 10 | equine

The real cost of horse ownership GUELPH - It is often said that if you ask a question to 10 horse owners, you will get 10 different answers.

However, one thing all agree upon is that horses are expensive. Affording the initial purchase cost is the least of required expenses.

Calculating the maintenance over the horses’ lifetime is a more realistic look at a long-term budgeting plan.

How much does horse ownership really cost? The short answer is that it depends.

There are many variables that come into play when calculating the cost of horse ownership.

“How much does a horse cost?” is a frequently-asked question, and like many things in the horse world, the answer is highly variable. Horses can cost anywhere from nothing to millions of dollars.

Realistically, one can expect to spend a few thousand dollars to find an appropriate mount, though this price will depend on the market, the type of horse, intended use and your location.

The purchase price is not the only expense you will encounter when horse shopping.

Before buying a horse, it is recommended that you have a trusted veterinarian conduct a pre-purchase exam. After the examination, the vet will give you an opinion on the horse’s strengths and weaknesses and discuss any potential problems. This exam will cost anywhere from a few hundred to $200,000, depending on the extensiveness of tests performed and whether you decide to have x-rays taken.

Remember you will also have to buy all the necessary supplies for your horse:

grooming equipment, tack, blankets (if needed) and medical supplies. The cost of these individual items may seem small, but they quickly add up.

Your horse has routine care needs. If you are boarding at a stable, the monthly bill can range from $300 to $3,000, depending on the services provided.

Usually, board includes: food, water, shelter and basic care - however, you may need to provide extra feed and supplements (including salt), or pay for additional services such as blanketing.

You will likely require lessons to learn how to properly ride and/or drive and handle your horse. Expect to pay anywhere from $30 to $100 dollars a lesson. If you are planning on showing your horse, be prepared to get out your cheque book. At the introductory levels, a schooling show will cost about $200 when you add up trailer, coaching, office and class fees. Show fees increase as one moves up through the levels.

Horses take a toll on more than just your wallet and you will need to invest emotional and physical resources, as well as time. Driving to the barn, grooming and working a horse can require upwards of two hours at a time. For most horse owners this is a three- to six-day-a-week commitment.

Are you capable of staying up all night with a sick horse - or are you willing to pay somebody else to take on that responsibility? If you get injured by your horse, can you afford to take time off work to heal?

Could you handle choosing between an expensive surgery or euthanasia if the situation arises? Horse owners often have to make tough decisions that impact more than their bank account.

To learn more about the cost of horse ownership, check out Equine Guelph’s “Cost of Horse Ownership” chart, which will outline necessary purchases and their average cost. You can also view the ‘The Real Cost of Horse Ownership” video, in which real horse owners’ talk about their experiences. Visit Equine Guelph’s Welfare Education page for more information http://www.equineguelph.ca/ education/welfare.php.

ments; As a horse owner, you will need to learn to be ready for unexpected costs - your horse does not know when the next pay day is, or whether you’re planning your next vacation.

The horse may need immediate veterinary care, board might increase or the price of hay may suddenly sky rocket. The average horse owner should have a plan to deal with unexpected costs. Common health problems, such as colic, can leave you with thousands of dollars of vet bills.

Even relatively minor health problems can become costly.

Remember that while you don’t need to buy the trendiest, most expensive products or services, you do have a responsibility to provide your horse with a safe and healthy environment.

Keeping your horse at home can be less expensive than boarding, but you will have to pay to maintain the property and provide your horse with feed, water and daily care.

Other essentials include routine hoof care by a reputable farrier or trimmer, approximately every six weeks. A vaccination schedule should be discussed with your veterinarian for annual core vaccines and others which will depend on each horse’s individual needs and infection control measures recommended for your area. Your horse may require medication or supple-

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Vet visits, medical supplies and care costs quickly add up.

It is important to always have a plan to deal with unforeseen costs; you might consider creating a horse specific savings account, or purchasing equine insurance.

While it is entirely possible to pay only horse-related expenses, if you intend to ride or drive your horse, there will be human costs. Appropriate clothing is a must to stay safe around the barn. You will need a helmet, gloves, breeches or jeans and a boot or shoe with a low wedge heel. While you need not buy expensive clothing, safety is a must.

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A sure sign of spring - The snow is melting at Parkwood Stables near Rockwood and new Hanoverian filly Frozen recently enjoyed the onset of spring at two days old, with dam Bella Lula. Frozen’s sire is the stallion Fabregas, who was imported from Germany by owners Ted and Elaine Parkinson.

Hanoverian foals are named with the same first letter as their father’s name, but Frozen’s name was also inspired by the Parkinson’s one-year-old granddaughter Avery, who likes the Disney movie Frozen. submitted photo

Legacies live on with Hoofprints GUELPH – They put wings under our feet, inspiration in our hearts and when they depart, they never leave our memories.

As horse owners ourselves, Equine Guelph and Intercity Insurance understand what it is like to suffer the loss of a beloved equine friend.

“Hoofprints was created to give grieving horse owners a positive means to cope with the devastating loss and a loving way to remember horses through sharing their stories with fellow horse lovers,” says Equine Guelph director Gayle Ecker.

The Hoofprints Tribute program provides an oppor-

tunity to pay respect to a horse or horse lover who has made a difference in the lives around them.

A photo and story are posted on the Hoofprints webpage to share cherished memories. By dedicating an Equine Guelph donation in their name, their legacy will live on by contributing to longer, healthier lives for other horses.

Equine Guelph thanks Intercity insurance for sponsoring the Hoofprints Tribute Program and for supporting the education program in the role of education patron.

For further information, visit www.EquineGuelph.ca.

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Equine | Page 11

When disaster strikes, horse owners should be prepared WELLINGTON COUNTY – Ice storms, blizzards, floods, tornadoes - it seems that over the past few years, this area has seen them all.

Disasters often strike without warning as demonstrated recently by the notable December ice storm that wreaked havoc on hundreds of thousands of residents in Ontario, the Maritimes, and the northeastern US, causing downed tree limbs and power lines. Many were without power for days, while for others it was weeks, which meant no heat, hydro or water.

No one is immune to the possible effects of a disaster, no matter what the season, but preparing ahead of time and having an emergency plan in place before disaster strikes will help to keep horses safe and out of harm’s way.

PLAN IT OUT Be aware of the possible risks in your region. Is your area prone to flooding? What about tornadoes or blizzards?

If the roads are closed, how do you get food to your horses?

Plan for a possible disruption of services by having at least two weeks supply of feed/hay on hand in a dry area. Top off all water tanks and buckets before an impending storm, and store additional water in plastic trash cans secured with lids in a safe place. Consider having well-maintained generators on hand to provide emergency power, and have enough fuel to keep them running for several days.

Always keep an up-todate emergency care kit that includes vetwrap, bandages, medications, flashlights, batteries, etc. Having an envelope set aside with emergency cash,

the amount depending on your budget and needs, will also come in handy for times such as these.

Consider other potential dangers such as wildfires or the possibility of gas leaks or propane spills. Many times, these result in evacuation with very little notice.

Prearrange an evacuation site for your horses and map out primary and secondary routes in advance. Develop a buddy system with friends and neighbouring barns.

Don’t hesitate to ask for help when the time comes.

Make sure your horses are trained to easily load and unload from a trailer. If evacuation is not possible, decide where on the property to safely store your horses. Micro chipping, branding, or tattooing, along with registration with online identification agencies, provides a permanent form of animal identification. As an alternative, ensure your horses are equipped with some form of identification such as a halter tag, neck collar, or leg tag that contains your contact information, should you have to leave them behind.

HUMAN SAFETY COMES FIRST In the case of a natural or man-made disaster, it’s important that the safety of humans comes first, says District Chief Victor MacPherson of the Adjala-Tosorontio Fire Department.

“Make sure that you and your family are safe before assisting your animals,” he says. “In the case of a fire, this is where emergency preparedness comes into play. If the barn is on fire, what do you do? What do you do with your livestock? My advice is, if it’s

safe to do so, try to get them out. However, if you bring them out of the barn and just turn them loose, most likely the horses will try to run back into the barn. That’s where their haven is; what they consider to be their safe place.

People should have a location in mind ahead of time to safely keep them together, such as a field or another barn far away from the fire.”

When people call 911 firefighters are usually the first responders to the scene.

Because of this, many firefighters are now receiving training in how to handle animals in emergency situations.

Last year, the AdjalaTosorontio Fire Department held a Technical Large Animal

Emergency Rescue (TLAER) course for first responders and animals owners. Deborah Chute, owner and operator of Laurenwood Stables and a volunteer firefighter with the Adjala-Tosorontio Fire Department, helped co-ordinate the course after seeing the need for such training.

“I first started thinking about the need for a course such as this one after the grass fire in June 2012,” she says.

“It was necessary to evacuate people, but there were over 50 horses that were also at risk, as well as other large animals and livestock. Thankfully, the fire was brought under control, but contemplating the logistics of moving that many animals made me realize we

WINNIPEG - On behalf of federal agriculture minister Gerry Ritz, Ted Falk, MP for Manitoba riding of Provencher, recently announced an investment of up to $483,650 in Equine Canada (EC) to help develop key export markets with long-term potential for the sale of Canadian-bred horses and horse genetics.

“The Government of Canada remains committed to supporting the agricultural industry through strategic investments to grow international markets,” said Falk.

“This investment will help the equine sector develop key export markets for our Canadian-bred horses to ensure the long-term sustainability of the industry.”

The goal is to help Canadian horse breeders compete effectively and successfully in international markets.

EC will lead missions to,

and host visitors from Argentina, Australia, Brazil, China and South Africa to enable Canadian and foreign stakeholders to meet face to face.

To capitalize on the large number of international visitors expected to attend the PanAm Games in Toronto in 2015, EC will also hold a PanAmerican Showcase featuring

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Canadian horses.

There are more than 900,000 horses in Canada.

Their use for sport and leisure, tourism, breeding, food production and related industries involves one million Canadians. The horse industry supports more than 77,000 on-farm jobs for the breeding and care of horses.

Equine Canada is a national sport and recreation equine organization that promotes the achievements of Canadian-bred horses to boost the profile of the industry.

Canada and the European Union (EU) have reached an agreement in principle on a comprehensive economic and trade agreement expected to significantly boost trade and investment ties. When it comes into force, almost 94 per cent of EU agricultural tariff lines will be dutyfree. The investment is made

through the market development stream of the federal AgriMarketing program, a fiveyear, $341-million initiative under Growing Forward 2.

“Equine Canada is extremely pleased to receive funding under Growing Forward 2 AgriMarketing. We believe strongly in the importance of this program on behalf of our industry. This funding is another step towards ensuring the long-term sustainability of the Canadian equine industry,” said Michael Gallagher, president Equine Canada.

“We have two main objectives: develop key export markets with long-term potential for the sale of Canadian-Bred horses and the rejuvenation of domestic demand for those horses by showcasing the wide range of opportunities available to the new generation of Canadian horse owners.”

PLEASE READ:

at Orangeville Fairgrounds

English: Hunter & Jumper Western: Performance & Speed Events

fire departments are usually quite happy to assist in developing pre-incident plans and can give further advice on fire detection and suppression systems that can be retrofitted or installed in new buildings. Regular inspection and repair of all human and animal housing and fencing will go a long way to keep you and your animals safe.”

Equine Guelph will be hosting an emergency preparedness course for horse owners on Sept. 18 (tentative date) followed by a technical large animal emergency rescue awareness and operations course on Sept. 19, 20 and 21 (tentative dates). Contact Susan Raymond slraymon@ uoguelph.ca for more details.

Equine Canada receives $480,000 in funding

2014 Horse Show Series Sunday Dates May 25th, June 22nd, July 27th, Sept 7th, Sept 28th

needed some additional training.”

PREPAREDNESS IS ESSENTIAL While it’s impossible to prepare for all conditions, don’t let an emergency situation catch you off guard.

Having a basic plan in place ahead of time for either the evacuation or sheltering of your horses allows you to handle an emergency with less stress and a clearer head.

“Pre-incident planning is crucial for any farm owner,” says Chute. “Farms, by their very nature, contain many hazards to humans, animals and the environment, and careful planning before the event of an emergency can save lives and property. Local

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GARY COOPER DIRECTOR OF SALES

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CRAIG CULLEN SALES MANAGER

BILL SMITH BUSINESS MGR

SHERRY DUCHESNE BUSINESS MGR

JASON SHAW SALES

PATRICK BARRETT SALES

TODD PYKE SALES

BLAKE BARRETT SALES

GEORGE HOAG SALES

DALE JUTZI SALES

AL HINDS SALES

JAMES MCBRIDE SALES