FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For additional information, contact:
Holley Groshek, Acting Executive Director
Equine Land Conservation Resource
Phone: 859-455-8383
Email: hgroshek@elcr.org
www.elcr.org
Lexington, KY – December 9, 2013 – At Equine Land Conservation Resource we often ask the question where will we ride, drive, race, compete, raise foals and grow hay tomorrow? The expiration of a key land conservation incentive will greatly impact the answer to that question.
There is a general consensus in the equine community that saving land for horses and horse-related activities is a top priority. Open space is at a premium these days and conservation has become an increasingly important issue in the equine world. For this reason, Equine Land Conservation Resource supports federal legislation that prevents the loss of open space. One of the strongest and most cost effective tools to accomplish this is the enhanced tax incentive for landowners who permanently retire development rights on their land.
This incentive allows farmers and ranchers, horse people, and family land businesses to remain prosperous and viable, when they might otherwise not be able to continue to keep their land open for farming, pastureland, breeding, trails, horse shows, competition venues, hay and grain production or any of the other uses of open space which impact the horse community.
For example, Fauquier County, Virginia landowner Marion Poynter recognizing the importance of conserving horse lands permanently protected her historic 47-acre farm this year by donating a conservation easement to the Piedmont Environmental Council. Mrs. Poynter and her farm, known as “The Meadows,” are known in equine circles for their warmblood sport horse breeding program, which is largely based on the now protected property. However, we are in danger of losing this enhanced incentive which is set to expire at the end of the month.
Unless Congress acts, some of the farms and open fields, essential to our industry and sport, will be lost forever. H.R. 2807 and S. 526 would make the enhanced incentive permanent, and both bills have strong bi-partisan support.
We are asking the media to help us inform the equine community and urge them to take immediate action by contacting their senators and representative (202-224-3121) and asking them to co-sponsor S. 526 or H.R. 2807. If their representative is already a co-sponsor, they can still call and let them know how important it is to move this legislation before the end of the year. To learn more about the enhanced tax incentive program please visit www.lta.org/easementincentive.
Working together we can conserve and protect our cherished equine places and spaces!!
About the Equine Land Conservation Resource (ELCR): The Equine Land Conservation Resource builds awareness of the loss of lands available for horse-related activities and facilitates the protection and preservation of those lands. We work to ensure America’s equine heritage lives on and the emotional, physical and economic benefits of the horse-human relationship remains accessible. ELCR serves as an information resource and clearinghouse on issues related to conserving horse properties, land use planning, land stewardship/best management practices, trails, liability and equine economic development. For more information about the ELCR visit our website at www.elcr.org or call (859) 455-8383.
Thursday, December 12, 2013
Mucho Macho Man Wins $5,000,000 in Revolutionary Burns Polyflex Shoe
Easycare Blog - Full Story
Tuesday, November 5, 2013 by Kevin Myers
Did you know there is a significant connection between the Burns Polyflex Shoe and the soon-to-be-released EasyShoe?
Curtis Burns of No Anvil, LLC, has been working closely with Garrett Ford for more than two years to help guide the evolution of the new EasyShoe and to provide feedback on the numerous design elements. There have been some fascinating conversations back and forth over that time, and the trust and respect between these two thought leaders is palpable...
Read more here:
http://blog.easycareinc.com/blog/bootlegging/mucho-macho-man-wins-5000000#sthash.00w9TKDX.dpuf
Tuesday, November 5, 2013 by Kevin Myers
Did you know there is a significant connection between the Burns Polyflex Shoe and the soon-to-be-released EasyShoe?
Curtis Burns of No Anvil, LLC, has been working closely with Garrett Ford for more than two years to help guide the evolution of the new EasyShoe and to provide feedback on the numerous design elements. There have been some fascinating conversations back and forth over that time, and the trust and respect between these two thought leaders is palpable...
Read more here:
http://blog.easycareinc.com/blog/bootlegging/mucho-macho-man-wins-5000000#sthash.00w9TKDX.dpuf
Wednesday, December 11, 2013
Isabella Bird, Rocky Mountain Explorer
Stargazermercantile.com - Full ArticleIf I asked you to name some explorers, how many could you name? Now, let’s say you’re on a game show trying to win a trip around the world and a lifetime supply of Rice-a-Roni. Get to it! It’s the “Lightening Round” and the clock is ticking. There’s Magellan, da Gama, Columbus, Ponce de Leon, Lewis and Clark . . .now, quick, name female explorers! If the only name on your list is Dora the Explorer, you’re never going to make it to Rice-A-Roni territory. For that, you’re going to have to offer up a more unexpected name. Howzabout Isabella Bird?
The Early Bird
Isabella Bird was born in England, in 1831. She was as sickly as a character from a Dickens novel, but she had a hankering to see the world. When she was 22-years-old, her doctor suggested that to help her health, she should take an ocean voyage. Hmm… Allrighty then. I confess that I got a little hung up on this point because it was 1854 and we weren’t exactly talking about taking a cruise on The Love Boat, sipping drinks with little umbrellas in them on the Lido Deck. It was a good deal more “rustic” back then! But, hey, I’m not a 19th century doctor, so perhaps that was a perfectly logical suggestion. Isabella’s father presented her with £100 and quite literally shipped her off to stay with relatives in America, for as long as her money lasted...
Read more here:
http://stargazermercantile.com/isabella-bird-rocky-mountain-explorer/
Tuesday, December 10, 2013
French horse riders take tax protest on to streets of Paris
François Hollande's plan to treble VAT on equestrian centres will 'send 80,000 horses to the abattoir', warns industry
Kim Willsher in Paris
theguardian.com, Sunday 24 November 2013
A French mood of mutiny that has rippled through Brittany and infected teachers, farmers and shopkeepers, skipped species on Sunday when horses took to the streets of Paris to complain about tax rises.
Thousands of disgruntled horse and pony riders rode through the French capital to complain about tax increases they say will put many of them out of business and send 80,000 animals to the abattoir.
The "cavaliers" blocked roads from the symbolic Paris squares, Place d'Italie, Place de la Bastille and Place de la Nation, in protest at government plans to almost treble VAT on equestrian centres...
Read more here:
http://www.theguardian.com/world/2013/nov/24/france-equestrian-tax-protest-paris
Sunday, December 08, 2013
A Personal Rant About What’s Become of FEI Endurance - Patti Stedman
Enduranceintrospection.com
by Patti Stedman
December 7 2013
[The first thing I have to do is officially divorce my personal opinions, comments and this entire rant from what is my official role on the AERC Board of Directors. I have certainly expressed my thoughts and feelings and ideas to that group of twenty-six, and am open to discussing that if anyone has questions on what is going with regard to doing BoD business, but not here, and not today.]
Here, this morning, I am going to have a temper tantrum of massive proportion to express my disgust and frustration.
I am furious that international competition, which left me cheering and proud in the late 1990s when I was just starting the sport, has become a shamefully divisive topic of discussion.
I am disgusted that a sport that I think of as “one horse, one rider and 100 miles” and “to finish is to win” with a full 24 hours to complete a challenging course has become, for some, a massive stable of disposable equines and a 100 mile flat track race complete with hazing vehicles and VIP tents and faster and faster ride times and a mentality that is not only “to win is to win” but “win at all costs” with money a massive motivating factor, up, down and across the organization. Openly as well as pervasively and deeply ingrained in every facet of its existence.
I am saddened, deeply, that riders in my country have been so tempted by life-altering money, that they have sold their partners in that “one horse, one rider” scenario to be assimilated into one of those stables of disposable equines. It reminds me, once again, that in this sport as in all horse sports, big money and big egos rarely means much of anything good for the horses involved.
I am horrified and sickened by stories of fractures and exhausted horses and injections and hazing and drugging of disposable horses and positive drug tests resulting in a slap on the wrist and no discernible change in the conduct of certain riders’ and owners’ and trainers’ behavior.
I am ashamed that the sport of endurance, as I see it, is and will continue to be tarnished by its association with what is going on, and that that ship has already sailed on a course that I am convinced is unalterable.
I am dismayed that I will be called upon to defend a sport which for me is, at its very heart, a test of horsemanship and preparation and athleticism DRIVEN by concern for the well-being of the horse.
I am angry that riders in my country and in Canada and in dozens of other countries, many duct-taping their dream together on a shoestring budget, compete against others on such a wildly un-level playing field, attempting to be honest and rule-abiding, while their competition is anything but.
I am stymied as to why they would want to continue to do so.
by Patti Stedman
December 7 2013
[The first thing I have to do is officially divorce my personal opinions, comments and this entire rant from what is my official role on the AERC Board of Directors. I have certainly expressed my thoughts and feelings and ideas to that group of twenty-six, and am open to discussing that if anyone has questions on what is going with regard to doing BoD business, but not here, and not today.]
Here, this morning, I am going to have a temper tantrum of massive proportion to express my disgust and frustration.
I am furious that international competition, which left me cheering and proud in the late 1990s when I was just starting the sport, has become a shamefully divisive topic of discussion.
I am disgusted that a sport that I think of as “one horse, one rider and 100 miles” and “to finish is to win” with a full 24 hours to complete a challenging course has become, for some, a massive stable of disposable equines and a 100 mile flat track race complete with hazing vehicles and VIP tents and faster and faster ride times and a mentality that is not only “to win is to win” but “win at all costs” with money a massive motivating factor, up, down and across the organization. Openly as well as pervasively and deeply ingrained in every facet of its existence.
I am saddened, deeply, that riders in my country have been so tempted by life-altering money, that they have sold their partners in that “one horse, one rider” scenario to be assimilated into one of those stables of disposable equines. It reminds me, once again, that in this sport as in all horse sports, big money and big egos rarely means much of anything good for the horses involved.
I am horrified and sickened by stories of fractures and exhausted horses and injections and hazing and drugging of disposable horses and positive drug tests resulting in a slap on the wrist and no discernible change in the conduct of certain riders’ and owners’ and trainers’ behavior.
I am ashamed that the sport of endurance, as I see it, is and will continue to be tarnished by its association with what is going on, and that that ship has already sailed on a course that I am convinced is unalterable.
I am dismayed that I will be called upon to defend a sport which for me is, at its very heart, a test of horsemanship and preparation and athleticism DRIVEN by concern for the well-being of the horse.
I am angry that riders in my country and in Canada and in dozens of other countries, many duct-taping their dream together on a shoestring budget, compete against others on such a wildly un-level playing field, attempting to be honest and rule-abiding, while their competition is anything but.
I am stymied as to why they would want to continue to do so.
In Anticipation of AAEP - Nancy Loving
Thehorse.com Blogs - Full Article
7 December 2013
My grandmother always thought there was something wrong with the pre-teen me as I raced around the house with hands held in front like I was holding reins and the rounded part of a pretzel lodged in my mouth like a bit, while I made neighing sounds. (Getting those neighs just right does take a bit of practice, by the way.) As I think back on this, well, there is something wrong with this image--kind of like the cart going before the horse. I mean, if I was steering myself ... hmmm, you get the idea. I am digressing. My mom thought I’d be okay and really didn’t need any professional help. My grandmother wasn’t so sure. Well, I suppose they were both right--I didn’t persist in acting like a horse but my horsey passion kind of took over my life as I went on to surround myself with “all things horse” by becoming a horse doctor.
So, is it any wonder that even in my travels, I end up going where everyone talks all day long about horses? If I ever wanted to network with people from all over the world who have the same focused passion, well, there’s one place where horse vets go--the annual AAEP (American Association of Equine Practitioners) Convention. Each year, nearly 6000 (count 'em!) horse doctors, veterinary students and trade show exhibitors from various parts of Planet Earth descend upon a different U.S. city...
Read more here:
http://cs.thehorse.com/blogs/aaep-convention/archive/2013/12/07/in-anticipation-of-AAEP.aspx
7 December 2013
My grandmother always thought there was something wrong with the pre-teen me as I raced around the house with hands held in front like I was holding reins and the rounded part of a pretzel lodged in my mouth like a bit, while I made neighing sounds. (Getting those neighs just right does take a bit of practice, by the way.) As I think back on this, well, there is something wrong with this image--kind of like the cart going before the horse. I mean, if I was steering myself ... hmmm, you get the idea. I am digressing. My mom thought I’d be okay and really didn’t need any professional help. My grandmother wasn’t so sure. Well, I suppose they were both right--I didn’t persist in acting like a horse but my horsey passion kind of took over my life as I went on to surround myself with “all things horse” by becoming a horse doctor.
So, is it any wonder that even in my travels, I end up going where everyone talks all day long about horses? If I ever wanted to network with people from all over the world who have the same focused passion, well, there’s one place where horse vets go--the annual AAEP (American Association of Equine Practitioners) Convention. Each year, nearly 6000 (count 'em!) horse doctors, veterinary students and trade show exhibitors from various parts of Planet Earth descend upon a different U.S. city...
Read more here:
http://cs.thehorse.com/blogs/aaep-convention/archive/2013/12/07/in-anticipation-of-AAEP.aspx
Saturday, December 07, 2013
Stress on endurance horses probed in study
Horsetalk.co.nz - Full Article
By Horsetalk.co.nz on Dec 04, 2013
Endurance horses generally cope well with the stresses of racing, a study suggests.
The conclusion was based on the assessments, including electrocardiograms and blood chemistry analysis, of horses who competed in two endurance events – one in Norway and one in Denmark.
“This study would indicate that, based on the analyzed parameters, endurance horses cope well with the stress and physical demands of endurance racing,” the Scandinavian researchers concluded...
Read more here:
http://horsetalk.co.nz/2013/12/04/stress-endurance-horses-probed-study/#axzz2moENEaOD
By Horsetalk.co.nz on Dec 04, 2013
Endurance horses generally cope well with the stresses of racing, a study suggests.
The conclusion was based on the assessments, including electrocardiograms and blood chemistry analysis, of horses who competed in two endurance events – one in Norway and one in Denmark.
“This study would indicate that, based on the analyzed parameters, endurance horses cope well with the stress and physical demands of endurance racing,” the Scandinavian researchers concluded...
Read more here:
http://horsetalk.co.nz/2013/12/04/stress-endurance-horses-probed-study/#axzz2moENEaOD
Thursday, December 05, 2013
Tips for Managing Horses in Winter to Avoid Colic
Thehorse.com - Full Article
By Edited Press Release
Nov 21, 2012
By Eleanor Kellon, VMD, staff veterinary specialist for Uckele Health & Nutrition
Colic can strike at any time and has many known--and some not-so-well-understood--risk factors. The fall and winter seasons themselves are known risk factors and there are several things you can do to decrease your horse's likelihood of developing colic. As pastures dwindle in the fall and the horse must switch to a different diet, two major factors are at play. One is the fact there is a different diet. The other is change in moisture level of the diet.
Most owners know they should transition slowly when adding or changing grains and other concentrates. However, it is important to realize that a change in forage, including hay types, should also be made gradually. This is because the protein, sugar, and starch components of hay are digested in the small intestine and--while digestive enzymes there can successfully adjust to changes--it doesn't happen overnight...
Read more here:
http://www.thehorse.com/articles/30900/tips-for-managing-horses-in-winter-to-avoid-colic?utm_source=Newsletter&utm_medium=health-news&utm_campaign=11-26-2013
By Edited Press Release
Nov 21, 2012
By Eleanor Kellon, VMD, staff veterinary specialist for Uckele Health & Nutrition
Colic can strike at any time and has many known--and some not-so-well-understood--risk factors. The fall and winter seasons themselves are known risk factors and there are several things you can do to decrease your horse's likelihood of developing colic. As pastures dwindle in the fall and the horse must switch to a different diet, two major factors are at play. One is the fact there is a different diet. The other is change in moisture level of the diet.
Most owners know they should transition slowly when adding or changing grains and other concentrates. However, it is important to realize that a change in forage, including hay types, should also be made gradually. This is because the protein, sugar, and starch components of hay are digested in the small intestine and--while digestive enzymes there can successfully adjust to changes--it doesn't happen overnight...
Read more here:
http://www.thehorse.com/articles/30900/tips-for-managing-horses-in-winter-to-avoid-colic?utm_source=Newsletter&utm_medium=health-news&utm_campaign=11-26-2013
Saturday, November 30, 2013
You Are Ready For Your First Ride - Trust Me! - Patti Stedman
Enduranceintrospection.com - Full Story
By Patti Stedman | November 29th, 2013
It concerns me sometimes that we’ve made success in our sport seem like some unattainable thing, requiring hours and hours of ceaseless daily conditioning over mountains at a gallop with a heart rate monitor and reverse splits and seven gazillion supplements.
It’s just not that complicated.
You take:
• One sound horse (this is a deal breaker — our veterinarian judges will not let you start a ride with a horse with a “hitch in his giddyup”)
• Saddle and tack and clothes that fit both you and the horse well (doesn’t have to be fancy or endurance tack – whatever works!)
• Some time to do some “legging up” of your horse, some short rides, some longer rides, so that you and the horse can happily do a 15 or so mile ride a few weekends before the competition in about 2 and a half hours and both feel pretty happy and comfortable at the end (no swollen legs, no hang dog look, no sore back)
• A little effort to TRAIN your horse so that it can pass and be passed on the trail, be around other horses on the same trail without going totally bananas, stop without being run into a tree, able to deal with reasonable trail obstacles safely, to eat and drink and rest when he is given an opportunity to do so, and to pace at the pace that YOU would like to go (since he’s a herd animal and will likely try to run as fast as the rest of the escaping herd unless you TRAIN him that you pick the pace and he won’t die as a result),
• Practice time learning to camp safely, and
• Getting familiar with AERC rules, which can be found, along with a plethora of other “getting started” information at www.aerc.org
Them’s the basics. Let’s Keep It Simple, Silly, shall we?...
Read more here:
http://enduranceintrospection.com/you-are-ready-for-your-first-ride-trust-me/
By Patti Stedman | November 29th, 2013
It concerns me sometimes that we’ve made success in our sport seem like some unattainable thing, requiring hours and hours of ceaseless daily conditioning over mountains at a gallop with a heart rate monitor and reverse splits and seven gazillion supplements.
It’s just not that complicated.
You take:
• One sound horse (this is a deal breaker — our veterinarian judges will not let you start a ride with a horse with a “hitch in his giddyup”)
• Saddle and tack and clothes that fit both you and the horse well (doesn’t have to be fancy or endurance tack – whatever works!)
• Some time to do some “legging up” of your horse, some short rides, some longer rides, so that you and the horse can happily do a 15 or so mile ride a few weekends before the competition in about 2 and a half hours and both feel pretty happy and comfortable at the end (no swollen legs, no hang dog look, no sore back)
• A little effort to TRAIN your horse so that it can pass and be passed on the trail, be around other horses on the same trail without going totally bananas, stop without being run into a tree, able to deal with reasonable trail obstacles safely, to eat and drink and rest when he is given an opportunity to do so, and to pace at the pace that YOU would like to go (since he’s a herd animal and will likely try to run as fast as the rest of the escaping herd unless you TRAIN him that you pick the pace and he won’t die as a result),
• Practice time learning to camp safely, and
• Getting familiar with AERC rules, which can be found, along with a plethora of other “getting started” information at www.aerc.org
Them’s the basics. Let’s Keep It Simple, Silly, shall we?...
Read more here:
http://enduranceintrospection.com/you-are-ready-for-your-first-ride-trust-me/
Wednesday, November 27, 2013
To Protect Your Horses, Use ICE
USRider.org
Lexington, KY (Sept. 6, 2005) – Say you’re traveling with your Horses and are involved in a serious accident. If you’re incapacitated, how will first responders know who to contact? How will they know what to do with your Horses?
USRider is advising horse owners of a new initiative that has been receiving a lot of publicity recently – ICE, which stands for In Case of Emergency. This very simple program has been designed to aid emergency responders in identifying victims whose identity is unknown and in determining who needs to be notified.
USRider is a nationwide roadside assistance plan created especially for equestrians. It includes standard features such as flat-tire repair, battery assistance and lockout services, plus towing up to 100 miles and roadside repairs for tow vehicles and trailers with Horses, emergency stabling, veterinary and farrier referrals, and more.
Implementing ICE is easy. Program your emergency contact information into your cellular phone and designate it with the acronym ICE. For example, if your brother John is the person you want to have alerted in the event of an emergency, insert the letters “ICE” before his name in your phone’s address book, creating an entry such as "ICE – John."
For those who regularly travel with Horses, it’s important to make it easy for first responders to know who to contact for information on handling your Horses. To do this, program an entry called "ICE – Horse" with the contact information of someone with the authority to make decisions about the care of your Horses if you are incapacitated.
The idea for ICE was conceived by Bob Brotchie, a clinical team leader for the East Anglian Ambulance Service, after years of trying to reach relatives of people he was treating. With ICE, paramedics or police can swiftly find the number or numbers and reach relatives or friends who could help identify deceased victims and treat injured ones, by providing vital personal information, including details of any medical conditions.
USRider strongly encourages the public, especially those who travel with Horses, to participate in the ICE initiative.
"This is a simple way to ensure that emergency, ambulance and hospital staff can quickly find out who your next of kin are and be able to contact them,” said Mark Cole, managing member of USRider. “In addition, those people could provide pertinent information about your Horses in the event of an emergency."
Before putting someone's name in as an emergency contact, be sure to discuss it with the person first and ask for permission to do so.
"While we recommend that USRider Members carry their USRider Membership at all times, we would like to recommend that they use their cellular phones to program the emergency contact number and membership ID number on their card into their cellular telephone as well, such as 'USRider-800#' and 'USRider-ID#' – so they have it in an emergency."
In conjunction with these recommendations, USRider recommends that conscientious horse owners prepare a limited/special power of attorney document relating to any treatment and care of their Horses in the event that the owner is incapacitated. A sample power-of-attorney form is available online at www.usrider.org.
"While these are not pleasant subjects," said Cole, "this is part of good animal stewardship, and conscientious horse owners should take steps to see that their Horses are properly cared for in an emergency."
An additional safety precaution is to secure emergency contact information to your horse trailer. USRider has created exterior emergency decals and interior information placards that are included at no extra cost in the USRider membership kit. Non-Members can request copies of these decals from the USRider website by entering the site’s guest book.
For more information about USRider, call toll-free (800) 844-1409 or visit www.usrider.org.
Lexington, KY (Sept. 6, 2005) – Say you’re traveling with your Horses and are involved in a serious accident. If you’re incapacitated, how will first responders know who to contact? How will they know what to do with your Horses?
USRider is advising horse owners of a new initiative that has been receiving a lot of publicity recently – ICE, which stands for In Case of Emergency. This very simple program has been designed to aid emergency responders in identifying victims whose identity is unknown and in determining who needs to be notified.
USRider is a nationwide roadside assistance plan created especially for equestrians. It includes standard features such as flat-tire repair, battery assistance and lockout services, plus towing up to 100 miles and roadside repairs for tow vehicles and trailers with Horses, emergency stabling, veterinary and farrier referrals, and more.
Implementing ICE is easy. Program your emergency contact information into your cellular phone and designate it with the acronym ICE. For example, if your brother John is the person you want to have alerted in the event of an emergency, insert the letters “ICE” before his name in your phone’s address book, creating an entry such as "ICE – John."
For those who regularly travel with Horses, it’s important to make it easy for first responders to know who to contact for information on handling your Horses. To do this, program an entry called "ICE – Horse" with the contact information of someone with the authority to make decisions about the care of your Horses if you are incapacitated.
The idea for ICE was conceived by Bob Brotchie, a clinical team leader for the East Anglian Ambulance Service, after years of trying to reach relatives of people he was treating. With ICE, paramedics or police can swiftly find the number or numbers and reach relatives or friends who could help identify deceased victims and treat injured ones, by providing vital personal information, including details of any medical conditions.
USRider strongly encourages the public, especially those who travel with Horses, to participate in the ICE initiative.
"This is a simple way to ensure that emergency, ambulance and hospital staff can quickly find out who your next of kin are and be able to contact them,” said Mark Cole, managing member of USRider. “In addition, those people could provide pertinent information about your Horses in the event of an emergency."
Before putting someone's name in as an emergency contact, be sure to discuss it with the person first and ask for permission to do so.
"While we recommend that USRider Members carry their USRider Membership at all times, we would like to recommend that they use their cellular phones to program the emergency contact number and membership ID number on their card into their cellular telephone as well, such as 'USRider-800#' and 'USRider-ID#' – so they have it in an emergency."
In conjunction with these recommendations, USRider recommends that conscientious horse owners prepare a limited/special power of attorney document relating to any treatment and care of their Horses in the event that the owner is incapacitated. A sample power-of-attorney form is available online at www.usrider.org.
"While these are not pleasant subjects," said Cole, "this is part of good animal stewardship, and conscientious horse owners should take steps to see that their Horses are properly cared for in an emergency."
An additional safety precaution is to secure emergency contact information to your horse trailer. USRider has created exterior emergency decals and interior information placards that are included at no extra cost in the USRider membership kit. Non-Members can request copies of these decals from the USRider website by entering the site’s guest book.
For more information about USRider, call toll-free (800) 844-1409 or visit www.usrider.org.
Tuesday, November 26, 2013
Winter-Driving Safety Guide
Equisearch.com - Full Article
By Courtesy of USRider Equestrian Motor Plan
Hauling your horse this winter? Don’t leave home without this quick-reference guide to winter driving.
This winter maintain your trailer, and follow these winter-driving tips from USRider.
• Go slow. Follow this rule of thumb: "rain, ice, and snow--take it slow." Slow down even more when approaching curves, ramps, bridges, and interchanges. Avoid abrupt actions, such as quick lane changes, braking, and accelerating.
• Check the weather. Before setting out on a trip, check weather reports, and plan accordingly. In many states, you can dial 5-1-1 for travel conditions and road closures. Allow extra time for inclement weather. Be aware of changing conditions. Look ahead, and keep track of the driving conditions in front of you. Actions by other drivers can alert you to problems and give you time to react. Look out for black ice, which is hard to see.
• Don't become overconfident. Don't be susceptible to the false security of four-wheel drive. While four-wheel drive may help you go, but it won't help you stop...
Read more here:
http://www.equisearch.com/farm_ranch/trailering/winter_tip_for_pulling_a_horse_trailer/?utm_source=TrailRiderNL&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Newsletter
By Courtesy of USRider Equestrian Motor Plan
Hauling your horse this winter? Don’t leave home without this quick-reference guide to winter driving.
This winter maintain your trailer, and follow these winter-driving tips from USRider.
• Go slow. Follow this rule of thumb: "rain, ice, and snow--take it slow." Slow down even more when approaching curves, ramps, bridges, and interchanges. Avoid abrupt actions, such as quick lane changes, braking, and accelerating.
• Check the weather. Before setting out on a trip, check weather reports, and plan accordingly. In many states, you can dial 5-1-1 for travel conditions and road closures. Allow extra time for inclement weather. Be aware of changing conditions. Look ahead, and keep track of the driving conditions in front of you. Actions by other drivers can alert you to problems and give you time to react. Look out for black ice, which is hard to see.
• Don't become overconfident. Don't be susceptible to the false security of four-wheel drive. While four-wheel drive may help you go, but it won't help you stop...
Read more here:
http://www.equisearch.com/farm_ranch/trailering/winter_tip_for_pulling_a_horse_trailer/?utm_source=TrailRiderNL&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Newsletter
Reparixin: The Future of Laminitis Treatment?
Thehorse.com - Full Article
By Alexandra Beckstett, The Horse Managing Editor
Nov 19, 2013
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such phenylbutazone, flunixin meglumine, and ketoprofen—these are all common drugs when it comes to managing inflammation in horses. Each has its advantages and disadvantages though, and when trying to block the inflammatory response in horses with laminitis there is no gold standard treatment. But what if a new drug, from an entirely untapped class, got thrown into the mix?...
Read more here:
http://www.thehorse.com/articles/32896/reparixin-the-future-of-laminitis-treatment?utm_source=Newsletter&utm_medium=lameness&utm_campaign=11-20-2013
By Alexandra Beckstett, The Horse Managing Editor
Nov 19, 2013
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such phenylbutazone, flunixin meglumine, and ketoprofen—these are all common drugs when it comes to managing inflammation in horses. Each has its advantages and disadvantages though, and when trying to block the inflammatory response in horses with laminitis there is no gold standard treatment. But what if a new drug, from an entirely untapped class, got thrown into the mix?...
Read more here:
http://www.thehorse.com/articles/32896/reparixin-the-future-of-laminitis-treatment?utm_source=Newsletter&utm_medium=lameness&utm_campaign=11-20-2013
Sunday, November 24, 2013
Feed Management to Minimize the Risk of Impaction in Horses
KER.Equinews.com - Full Article
By Kentucky Equine Research Staff · November 8, 2013
Winter, with its icy water sources and lowered equine activity levels, is one of the riskiest times for horses that tend to develop intestinal impaction. Fresh grass has been replaced in the diet by dry hay; horses tend to drink less when offered very cold water; and with a break in regular training and exercise, they may not sweat enough to feel thirsty. These are all contributing factors to impaction colic because they are all conducive to slower movement of ingested material through the digestive tract.
Regular intake of suitable forage, adequate chewing and moistening of this forage with saliva, and proper hydration status are important in preventing impaction. Exercise also encourages movement of ingested material. Horse owners need to be sure they are carrying out management steps to help their horses avoid problems...
Read more here:
http://ker.equinews.com/article/feed-management-minimize-risk-impaction-horses?utm_source=KER+Newsletter&utm_campaign=f0b6494b3f-KER_Newsletter_Kentucky_Equine11_20_2013&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_0d95781dfc-f0b6494b3f-11166
By Kentucky Equine Research Staff · November 8, 2013
Winter, with its icy water sources and lowered equine activity levels, is one of the riskiest times for horses that tend to develop intestinal impaction. Fresh grass has been replaced in the diet by dry hay; horses tend to drink less when offered very cold water; and with a break in regular training and exercise, they may not sweat enough to feel thirsty. These are all contributing factors to impaction colic because they are all conducive to slower movement of ingested material through the digestive tract.
Regular intake of suitable forage, adequate chewing and moistening of this forage with saliva, and proper hydration status are important in preventing impaction. Exercise also encourages movement of ingested material. Horse owners need to be sure they are carrying out management steps to help their horses avoid problems...
Read more here:
http://ker.equinews.com/article/feed-management-minimize-risk-impaction-horses?utm_source=KER+Newsletter&utm_campaign=f0b6494b3f-KER_Newsletter_Kentucky_Equine11_20_2013&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_0d95781dfc-f0b6494b3f-11166
Saturday, November 23, 2013
Back Country Horsemen of America Gets the Job Done with Low Impact on the Land
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
November 17, 2013
Peg Greiwe
peg@backcountryhorse.com
Back Country Horsemen of America Gets the Job Done with Low Impact on the Land
by Sarah Wynne Jackson
Back Country Horsemen of America cherishes our wild lands and they make sure that everything they do has the lowest impact possible on the land and the environment. That’s one reason they love horses and mules. Horse power is irreplaceable in the many public lands where motorized use is prohibited, such as the Bass Lake area in the Sierra National Forest, and the Idaho Panhandle National Forests where the endangered woodland caribou makes a last stand.
These precious places need protecting, but our enjoyment of these areas necessitates occasional trail improvements. The predicament is easily solved with the use of the original horse power.
Re-Furnishing an Historic Structure
The Selkirk Valley Chapter of Back Country Horsemen of Idaho recently used horses and mules to complete two packing assignments for the US Forest Service in the Idaho Panhandle National Forests, without once violating the “no motorized use” rule.
West Fork Cabin, an historic reconstructed smoke-jumpers’ cabin, sits in a small meadow about a mile and a half from a forest service road. Originally built in 1931, it is open to the public for shelter and overnight stays. Because it sees heavy use, many things needed to be replaced.
Members of the Selkirk Valley Chapter of BCHI gathered at the trailhead and secured the awkward items on their pack stock. One pack animal carried a 150 pound wood stove and 150 pounds of water on the other side to even out the load. Another carried bunk bed frames, while two others were loaded with three mattresses. The last carried a variety of miscellaneous items.
When the motley-looking crew arrived at West Fork Cabin, the surprised resident campers helped Selkirk Valley BCH replace the old items with the new. After a brief visit, they packed the horses and mules with the old items and returned to the trailhead, accomplishing an essential job with a minimum impact on the land.
In the Name of Science
When the Sandpoint Ranger District in the Idaho Panhandle National Forests received a grant to conduct a study on white bark pine on Keno Mountain, they asked the Selkirk Valley Chapter of Back Country Horsemen of Idaho to pack in and out the necessary equipment. In July, they packed all the gear to the top of Keno Mountain. After equipment was put in place to harvest pinecone seeds in the trees, Selkirk Valley BCH packed the gear out. After the harvest, they will repeat the process to bring down the equipment and harvested seeds.
The Selkirk Valley Chapter of Back Country Horsemen of Idaho look forward to doing whatever they can to maintain local forests. They clear trails, tidy trailheads, assist with scientific studies, and pack in and out a wide variety of equipment and materials using the original horse power, which treads lightly on the land.
Having a Blast
Partnering with the Bass Lake Ranger District, the Sierra Freepackers Chapter of Back Country Horsemen of California repaired a section of the Spring Cove Trail at Bass Lake in the Sierra National Forest. Their goal was to bring it up to acceptable standards by widening the trail, which required blasting out some rock that made the trail unsafe for horses.
The Sierra Freepackers used mules to pack in a variety of equipment needed for the project including a specialized pionjar drill, Boulder Busters, and hand tools. The pionjar is a versatile gas powered tool used to drill holes in the rock. Water was added for expansion and the Boulder Buster inserted. A mat was placed over the blast holes for safety and to keep flying debris to a minimum. As rock was broken up, BCHC members cleared the pieces from the trail.
After the project was completed, two BCHC members came back a couple of days later and rode the trail with some novice riders to evaluate the work from horseback. Thanks to the hard work of the Sierra Freepackers and their low impact horse power, the trail was successfully improved without causing damage to the surrounding land.
About Back Country Horsemen of America
BCHA is a non-profit corporation made up of state organizations, affiliates, and at-large members. Their efforts have brought about positive changes regarding the use of horses and stock in the wilderness and public lands.
If you want to know more about Back Country Horsemen of America or become a member, visit their website: www.backcountryhorse.com; call 888-893-5161; or write PO Box 1367, Graham, WA 98338-1367. The future of horse use on public lands is in our hands!
Peg Greiwe
peg@backcountryhorse.com
Back Country Horsemen of America Gets the Job Done with Low Impact on the Land
by Sarah Wynne Jackson
Back Country Horsemen of America cherishes our wild lands and they make sure that everything they do has the lowest impact possible on the land and the environment. That’s one reason they love horses and mules. Horse power is irreplaceable in the many public lands where motorized use is prohibited, such as the Bass Lake area in the Sierra National Forest, and the Idaho Panhandle National Forests where the endangered woodland caribou makes a last stand.
These precious places need protecting, but our enjoyment of these areas necessitates occasional trail improvements. The predicament is easily solved with the use of the original horse power.
Re-Furnishing an Historic Structure
The Selkirk Valley Chapter of Back Country Horsemen of Idaho recently used horses and mules to complete two packing assignments for the US Forest Service in the Idaho Panhandle National Forests, without once violating the “no motorized use” rule.
West Fork Cabin, an historic reconstructed smoke-jumpers’ cabin, sits in a small meadow about a mile and a half from a forest service road. Originally built in 1931, it is open to the public for shelter and overnight stays. Because it sees heavy use, many things needed to be replaced.
Members of the Selkirk Valley Chapter of BCHI gathered at the trailhead and secured the awkward items on their pack stock. One pack animal carried a 150 pound wood stove and 150 pounds of water on the other side to even out the load. Another carried bunk bed frames, while two others were loaded with three mattresses. The last carried a variety of miscellaneous items.
When the motley-looking crew arrived at West Fork Cabin, the surprised resident campers helped Selkirk Valley BCH replace the old items with the new. After a brief visit, they packed the horses and mules with the old items and returned to the trailhead, accomplishing an essential job with a minimum impact on the land.
In the Name of Science
When the Sandpoint Ranger District in the Idaho Panhandle National Forests received a grant to conduct a study on white bark pine on Keno Mountain, they asked the Selkirk Valley Chapter of Back Country Horsemen of Idaho to pack in and out the necessary equipment. In July, they packed all the gear to the top of Keno Mountain. After equipment was put in place to harvest pinecone seeds in the trees, Selkirk Valley BCH packed the gear out. After the harvest, they will repeat the process to bring down the equipment and harvested seeds.
The Selkirk Valley Chapter of Back Country Horsemen of Idaho look forward to doing whatever they can to maintain local forests. They clear trails, tidy trailheads, assist with scientific studies, and pack in and out a wide variety of equipment and materials using the original horse power, which treads lightly on the land.
Having a Blast
Partnering with the Bass Lake Ranger District, the Sierra Freepackers Chapter of Back Country Horsemen of California repaired a section of the Spring Cove Trail at Bass Lake in the Sierra National Forest. Their goal was to bring it up to acceptable standards by widening the trail, which required blasting out some rock that made the trail unsafe for horses.
The Sierra Freepackers used mules to pack in a variety of equipment needed for the project including a specialized pionjar drill, Boulder Busters, and hand tools. The pionjar is a versatile gas powered tool used to drill holes in the rock. Water was added for expansion and the Boulder Buster inserted. A mat was placed over the blast holes for safety and to keep flying debris to a minimum. As rock was broken up, BCHC members cleared the pieces from the trail.
After the project was completed, two BCHC members came back a couple of days later and rode the trail with some novice riders to evaluate the work from horseback. Thanks to the hard work of the Sierra Freepackers and their low impact horse power, the trail was successfully improved without causing damage to the surrounding land.
About Back Country Horsemen of America
BCHA is a non-profit corporation made up of state organizations, affiliates, and at-large members. Their efforts have brought about positive changes regarding the use of horses and stock in the wilderness and public lands.
If you want to know more about Back Country Horsemen of America or become a member, visit their website: www.backcountryhorse.com; call 888-893-5161; or write PO Box 1367, Graham, WA 98338-1367. The future of horse use on public lands is in our hands!
Friday, November 22, 2013
To Blanket or Not to Blanket? A Good Cold-Weather Question
Thehorse.com - Full Article
By Luke Bass, DVM, MS
Nov 15, 2013
The chilly months from late fall to early spring are generally a time of slowed activity for horse and rider, but attentiveness to horse health and management is just as crucial during the cold season. As an equine veterinarian, I’m often asked about blanketing during the cold months.
Primary considerations in horse blanketing are hair coat and environmental temperature. Here is some information that will assist you in making the right blanketing decision for your horse...
Read more here:
http://www.thehorse.com/articles/32878/to-blanket-or-not-to-blanket-a-good-cold-weather-question?utm_source=Newsletter&utm_medium=health-news&utm_campaign=11-19-2013
By Luke Bass, DVM, MS
Nov 15, 2013
The chilly months from late fall to early spring are generally a time of slowed activity for horse and rider, but attentiveness to horse health and management is just as crucial during the cold season. As an equine veterinarian, I’m often asked about blanketing during the cold months.
Primary considerations in horse blanketing are hair coat and environmental temperature. Here is some information that will assist you in making the right blanketing decision for your horse...
Read more here:
http://www.thehorse.com/articles/32878/to-blanket-or-not-to-blanket-a-good-cold-weather-question?utm_source=Newsletter&utm_medium=health-news&utm_campaign=11-19-2013
Thursday, November 21, 2013
Great Britain: Crocs for horses: Plastic slip-on hooves that making nailing horseshoes a thing of the past
Dailymail.co.uk - Full Article• Designer John Wright came up with the new GluShu design
• A traditional horseshoe is coated with comfortable plastic
• Instead of nails, the shoe is glued on to the horse's hoof
By STEVE NOLAN
PUBLISHED: 12:32 EST, 4 March 2013
A revolutionary slip-on plastic coated hoof that doubles as an equine fashion accessory could spell the end for nailing on horseshoes.
An equestrian designer came up with the 'GluShu', which uses a traditional metal horseshoe that is coated in a durable thick plastic covering and glued to the animal's foot rather than nailed.
The coating offers the horse more cushioning and offers an easier alternative to the traditional method of fitting shoes.
But not only are they easier to fit and more comfortable for the horse, the shoes could become something of an equine fashion accessory as they come in a variety colours including neon pink and grey and look like the popular plastic sandals Crocs.
The new shoes were designed by John Wright with the help of GB Olympic equestrian team farrier Jeffrey Newnham.
Read more here:
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2287987/Crocs-horses-Plastic-slip-hooves-making-nailing-horseshoes-thing-past.html
Wednesday, November 20, 2013
“Two-Gun” Nan Aspinwall: An American Cowgirl
Stargazermercantile.com - Full Articleby Anita Lequoia
Campfire Chronicle - True Stories of the American West
While much of the U.S. is sitting around lamenting the fact that we don’t get the next season of “Downton Abbey” until January, I thought it would be fun to explore the life of a different sort of lady. These days, Nan Aspinwall and her horse, Lady Ellen, may not be as familiar to most people as the Dowager Countess and her granddaughter, Lady Edith, but believe you me, Nan’s story doesn’t disappoint!
Nan Jeanne Aspinwall was born in Nebraska in 1880, but she was not your typical female of the day (or any day, for that matter). She was not a gal to be satisfied working on her quilt squares or doing other “proper” womanly things. Instead, she honed her skills as a sharpshooter, archer, trick roper, stunt rider and bull rider. But that’s not all...
Read more here:
http://stargazermercantile.com/two-gun-nan/
Saturday, November 16, 2013
Managing the Club Foot
Thehorse.com - Full Article
By Nancy S. Loving, DVM
Nov 07, 2013
A horse with slightly asymmetrical feet is nothing out of the ordinary. But if one hoof differs dramatically from the other, you might be dealing with a club foot—an abnormally upright hoof with long, contracted heels and a prominent or bulging coronary band. Because shortening of the musculotendinous unit (the deep digital flexor muscle and tendon) causes this syndrome, it is more accurate to describe a club foot as a "flexural deformity" of the coffin joint. And while a deformity might sound like a career-ending flaw, with proper management affected horses can lead very comfortable and even athletic lives...
Read more here:
http://www.thehorse.com/articles/32785/managing-the-club-foot?utm_source=Newsletter&utm_medium=lameness&utm_campaign=11-13-2013
By Nancy S. Loving, DVM
Nov 07, 2013
A horse with slightly asymmetrical feet is nothing out of the ordinary. But if one hoof differs dramatically from the other, you might be dealing with a club foot—an abnormally upright hoof with long, contracted heels and a prominent or bulging coronary band. Because shortening of the musculotendinous unit (the deep digital flexor muscle and tendon) causes this syndrome, it is more accurate to describe a club foot as a "flexural deformity" of the coffin joint. And while a deformity might sound like a career-ending flaw, with proper management affected horses can lead very comfortable and even athletic lives...
Read more here:
http://www.thehorse.com/articles/32785/managing-the-club-foot?utm_source=Newsletter&utm_medium=lameness&utm_campaign=11-13-2013
Friday, November 15, 2013
N.M. Horse Processing Plant On Hold Again
Thehorse.com - Full Article
By Pat Raia
Nov 05, 2013
Just days after a federal judge threw out a lawsuit seeking to halt horse processing in New Mexico, a new order handed down by a Denver, Colo., appeals court has barred the USDA from carrying out inspections at U.S. horse slaughter plants.
Horse slaughter has not taken place in the United States since 2007 when a combination of court rulings and legislation shuttered the last domestic equine processing plants. Prior to 2007, USDA personnel carried out inspections at horse processing plants until Congress voted to strip the USDA of funds to pay personnel conducting those federal inspections. In 2011, legislation reinstated USDA funding for horse processing plants in the United States and, in June 2013, Valley Meats Co. LLC in Roswell, N.M., received a Food Safety Inspection Services (FSIS) permit, which allows placement of personnel at the plant to carry out horsemeat inspections...
Read more here:
http://www.thehorse.com/articles/32821/n-m-horse-processing-plant-on-hold-again?utm_source=Newsletter&utm_medium=equinomics&utm_campaign=11-10-2013
By Pat Raia
Nov 05, 2013
Just days after a federal judge threw out a lawsuit seeking to halt horse processing in New Mexico, a new order handed down by a Denver, Colo., appeals court has barred the USDA from carrying out inspections at U.S. horse slaughter plants.
Horse slaughter has not taken place in the United States since 2007 when a combination of court rulings and legislation shuttered the last domestic equine processing plants. Prior to 2007, USDA personnel carried out inspections at horse processing plants until Congress voted to strip the USDA of funds to pay personnel conducting those federal inspections. In 2011, legislation reinstated USDA funding for horse processing plants in the United States and, in June 2013, Valley Meats Co. LLC in Roswell, N.M., received a Food Safety Inspection Services (FSIS) permit, which allows placement of personnel at the plant to carry out horsemeat inspections...
Read more here:
http://www.thehorse.com/articles/32821/n-m-horse-processing-plant-on-hold-again?utm_source=Newsletter&utm_medium=equinomics&utm_campaign=11-10-2013
Breeders' Cup Drug Tests Come Back Clean
Thehorse.com - Full Article
By The Blood-Horse Staff
Nov 05, 2013
he California Horse Racing Board (CHRB) said Nov. 4 all urine and blood samples collected from horses in the Breeders' Cup World Championships Nov. 1-2 at Santa Anita Park, in Arcadia, Calif., have tested negative.
Testing was performed at the Kenneth L. Maddy Equine Analytical Laboratory at the University of California, Davis.
Under standard protocol in California, all horses that raced in the Breeders' Cup were pre-race tested for TCO2 levels in blood. Post-racing tests were performed on urine and blood samples from the first four finishers in all 14 Cup races; additional horses were tested randomly at the discretion of the stewards...
Read more here:
http://www.thehorse.com/articles/32816/breeders-cup-drug-tests-come-back-clean?utm_source=Newsletter&utm_medium=welfare-industry&utm_campaign=11-07-2013
By The Blood-Horse Staff
Nov 05, 2013
he California Horse Racing Board (CHRB) said Nov. 4 all urine and blood samples collected from horses in the Breeders' Cup World Championships Nov. 1-2 at Santa Anita Park, in Arcadia, Calif., have tested negative.
Testing was performed at the Kenneth L. Maddy Equine Analytical Laboratory at the University of California, Davis.
Under standard protocol in California, all horses that raced in the Breeders' Cup were pre-race tested for TCO2 levels in blood. Post-racing tests were performed on urine and blood samples from the first four finishers in all 14 Cup races; additional horses were tested randomly at the discretion of the stewards...
Read more here:
http://www.thehorse.com/articles/32816/breeders-cup-drug-tests-come-back-clean?utm_source=Newsletter&utm_medium=welfare-industry&utm_campaign=11-07-2013
Thursday, November 14, 2013
Selling a Horse on Trial: 10 Tips to Lower Your Risk
Thehorse.com Blog - Full Article
November 1 2013
In certain segments of the horse industry, it is fairly common for the buyer to take a horse home (or to a trainer’s) and try the horse out before making a final decision. Frequently, the buyer will also have a vet check performed during this trial period. Trial periods benefit the buyer by providing them with an opportunity to thoroughly evaluate a horse prior to purchase. Offering a trial period can often help the seller complete a sale.
However, trial periods can be fraught with problems...
Read more here:
http://cs.thehorse.com/blogs/horses-and-the-law/archive/2013/11/01/selling-a-horse-on-trial-10-tips-to-lower-your-risk.aspx?utm_source=Newsletter&utm_medium=lameness&utm_campaign=11-06-2013
November 1 2013
In certain segments of the horse industry, it is fairly common for the buyer to take a horse home (or to a trainer’s) and try the horse out before making a final decision. Frequently, the buyer will also have a vet check performed during this trial period. Trial periods benefit the buyer by providing them with an opportunity to thoroughly evaluate a horse prior to purchase. Offering a trial period can often help the seller complete a sale.
However, trial periods can be fraught with problems...
Read more here:
http://cs.thehorse.com/blogs/horses-and-the-law/archive/2013/11/01/selling-a-horse-on-trial-10-tips-to-lower-your-risk.aspx?utm_source=Newsletter&utm_medium=lameness&utm_campaign=11-06-2013
Using Hay Replacers for Horses
Thehorse.com - Full Article
By Emily Lamprecht, PhD
Nov 10, 2013
When times of severe drought or other weather phenomenon result in poor quality or availability of pastures and hay, horse owners often turn to complete feeds (those that contain a full diet of roughage, protein, vitamins, minerals, and other needed nutrients) or hay stretchers/replacers (designed to replace the fiber component of the hay/pasture that is no longer available).
These products can be extremely useful to horse owners to help them through the tough hay times, but they do come with some usage guidelines to keep horses happy and healthy...
Read more here:
http://www.thehorse.com/articles/32844/using-hay-replacers-for-horses?utm_source=Newsletter&utm_medium=health-news&utm_campaign=11-12-2013
By Emily Lamprecht, PhD
Nov 10, 2013
When times of severe drought or other weather phenomenon result in poor quality or availability of pastures and hay, horse owners often turn to complete feeds (those that contain a full diet of roughage, protein, vitamins, minerals, and other needed nutrients) or hay stretchers/replacers (designed to replace the fiber component of the hay/pasture that is no longer available).
These products can be extremely useful to horse owners to help them through the tough hay times, but they do come with some usage guidelines to keep horses happy and healthy...
Read more here:
http://www.thehorse.com/articles/32844/using-hay-replacers-for-horses?utm_source=Newsletter&utm_medium=health-news&utm_campaign=11-12-2013
Monday, November 11, 2013
Rescue Horses and Veterans: A Good Fit
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact: Cindy Gendron: 757-932-0394; cindy@homesforhorses.org
Rescue Horses and Veterans: A Good Fit
Homes for Horses Coalition Members Provide Programs that Meet the Needs of Both Horses and Humans
On this Veterans’ Day, The Homes for Horses Coalition salutes both our veterans, and our members that are helping them to reclaim their lives, as they give new life to horses in need. The entire mission of member organization Horses4Heroes is focused on serving military heroes and their families. Through Operation Free Ride, thousands of military men, women and their children have registered for and/or received free horseback rides at host facilities from coast to coast. In addition to recreational programs for military families, Horses4Heroes offers therapeutic programs to veterans such as Back in the Saddle, a four-week empowerment workshop, and Unfinished Business, a program for veterans with PTSD and others who need to say “good-bye,” get over a loss or difficult situation. Wherever and whenever possible, Horses4Heroes uses rescue horses in these programs.
At Zuma’s Rescue Ranch, the ZEAL Program combines Animal Assisted Coaching and Experiential Learning to help veterans rebuild trust and confidence, as well as, refocus their attention to giving to the horses while healing their broken minds and bodies. “The skill developed working through life’s challenges with equine therapy partners is one that cannot compare to traditional educational models, says Jodi Messenich, Executive Director of Zuma’s. “The partnering with horses once destined for slaughter brings a level of compassion coupled with a desire to help another being. Those life lessons are creating compassionate hard working young men and women to lead our next generation.”
The Soldier Buddies program at Riding Star Ranch matches returning military soldiers and military veterans with at-risk youth between the ages of 12-22. The military veterans serve as positive role models and help instill morals, character, and essential life skills to their young "Buddies". Together, the Soldier Buddies care for a program horse including learning how to ride, and even how to drive, in the structured equine-assisted environment. The human benefits of the program include learning responsibility, compassion, self-esteem, trust and teamwork among other social and life skills. The horses involved in the program benefit from the socialization and retraining while receiving loving, hands-on care from the Soldier Buddies. These aspects are vital to the re-homing and adoption of the rescue horses.
Cindy Gendron, The Homes for Horses Coalition Coordinator, says “These are just a few of our members that have witnessed the symbiotic relationship that rescue horses can have with humans that need healing. It’s an honor to observe how these and other members are helping veterans face unique challenges by allowing them to bond with horses facing their own.”
About The Homes for Horses Coalition
The Homes for Horses Coalition is supported by the ASPCA (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®), the Animal Welfare Institute and The Humane Society of the United States’, Jeannie Dodson Equine Protection Fund. It is dedicated to ending horse slaughter and other forms of equine abuse, while promoting growth, collaboration and professionalism in the equine rescue and protection community. Find us online at www.homesforhorses.org and on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/#!/HomesforHorses.
Media Contact: Cindy Gendron: 757-932-0394; cindy@homesforhorses.org
Rescue Horses and Veterans: A Good Fit
Homes for Horses Coalition Members Provide Programs that Meet the Needs of Both Horses and Humans
On this Veterans’ Day, The Homes for Horses Coalition salutes both our veterans, and our members that are helping them to reclaim their lives, as they give new life to horses in need. The entire mission of member organization Horses4Heroes is focused on serving military heroes and their families. Through Operation Free Ride, thousands of military men, women and their children have registered for and/or received free horseback rides at host facilities from coast to coast. In addition to recreational programs for military families, Horses4Heroes offers therapeutic programs to veterans such as Back in the Saddle, a four-week empowerment workshop, and Unfinished Business, a program for veterans with PTSD and others who need to say “good-bye,” get over a loss or difficult situation. Wherever and whenever possible, Horses4Heroes uses rescue horses in these programs.
At Zuma’s Rescue Ranch, the ZEAL Program combines Animal Assisted Coaching and Experiential Learning to help veterans rebuild trust and confidence, as well as, refocus their attention to giving to the horses while healing their broken minds and bodies. “The skill developed working through life’s challenges with equine therapy partners is one that cannot compare to traditional educational models, says Jodi Messenich, Executive Director of Zuma’s. “The partnering with horses once destined for slaughter brings a level of compassion coupled with a desire to help another being. Those life lessons are creating compassionate hard working young men and women to lead our next generation.”
The Soldier Buddies program at Riding Star Ranch matches returning military soldiers and military veterans with at-risk youth between the ages of 12-22. The military veterans serve as positive role models and help instill morals, character, and essential life skills to their young "Buddies". Together, the Soldier Buddies care for a program horse including learning how to ride, and even how to drive, in the structured equine-assisted environment. The human benefits of the program include learning responsibility, compassion, self-esteem, trust and teamwork among other social and life skills. The horses involved in the program benefit from the socialization and retraining while receiving loving, hands-on care from the Soldier Buddies. These aspects are vital to the re-homing and adoption of the rescue horses.
Cindy Gendron, The Homes for Horses Coalition Coordinator, says “These are just a few of our members that have witnessed the symbiotic relationship that rescue horses can have with humans that need healing. It’s an honor to observe how these and other members are helping veterans face unique challenges by allowing them to bond with horses facing their own.”
About The Homes for Horses Coalition
The Homes for Horses Coalition is supported by the ASPCA (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®), the Animal Welfare Institute and The Humane Society of the United States’, Jeannie Dodson Equine Protection Fund. It is dedicated to ending horse slaughter and other forms of equine abuse, while promoting growth, collaboration and professionalism in the equine rescue and protection community. Find us online at www.homesforhorses.org and on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/#!/HomesforHorses.
Anatomy Anyone?
Easycare Blog - Karen BumgarnerMonday, October 28, 2013 by Guest HCP
As people who care for horse’s hooves, it behooves us to know as much as possible about this structure. Yes – pun intended. We as horsemen need to understand how the entire leg is made and how it all works together. I know we have seen many of the moving parts, either while we hold the hoof in our hands or while watching the horse move. But what do we really know about the hoof and the leg? We can read the books, practice on cadavers, do our homework but the learning process never ends.
While out riding I came across a scattered skeleton of a horse. Oh what an opportunity to study the bones. But amongst this was one intact front leg. Not only was the leg intact but the hoof capsule was still attached, complete with a shoe! Oh wow!...
Read more here:
http://blog.easycareinc.com/blog/insights-from-the-inside/anatomy-anyone
Swollen or Filled Legs: What’s Wrong With Your Horse?
KER.Equinews.com - Full Article
By Kentucky Equine Research Staff · November 21, 2011
Horses can rapidly develop swelling or “filling” in one or more legs. Is it serious? What causes it?
A common reason for filling is inactivity in a horse that is accustomed to moving around. An example might be a horse that is usually turned out in the pasture but has been kept in a stall overnight, maybe at a show or in preparation for an early ride the next day. The owner notices that the horse’s rear legs are puffy and swollen as he’s led out of the stall. The legs are not uncommonly warm, and the horse may move somewhat stiffly but is not truly lame. Caused by inactivity and reduced lymph flow, this “stocking up” is usually not serious and will dissipate as the horse is exercised. It’s more common in older horses and can affect all four legs, though stocking up is often seen only in the hind legs...
Read more here:
http://ker.equinews.com/article/swollen-or-filled-legs-what%E2%80%99s-wrong-your-horse-0
By Kentucky Equine Research Staff · November 21, 2011
Horses can rapidly develop swelling or “filling” in one or more legs. Is it serious? What causes it?
A common reason for filling is inactivity in a horse that is accustomed to moving around. An example might be a horse that is usually turned out in the pasture but has been kept in a stall overnight, maybe at a show or in preparation for an early ride the next day. The owner notices that the horse’s rear legs are puffy and swollen as he’s led out of the stall. The legs are not uncommonly warm, and the horse may move somewhat stiffly but is not truly lame. Caused by inactivity and reduced lymph flow, this “stocking up” is usually not serious and will dissipate as the horse is exercised. It’s more common in older horses and can affect all four legs, though stocking up is often seen only in the hind legs...
Read more here:
http://ker.equinews.com/article/swollen-or-filled-legs-what%E2%80%99s-wrong-your-horse-0
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