October 2023 Saddle Up! Magazine

Therearecurrentlyapproximately155,000horsesinMichigan,basedonthelast EquineSurvey(2007).Whilethesenumbersmayhavedecreasedsomewhatbased ontherecession,theuseofhorsesinthestatehasnotdecreased,andinfactmaybe increasing(personalobservation).Eachoftheseanimalsisinneedofregularhoof care,withtrimmingrequiredevery6-8weeksandshoes(forthosewhoareshod) requiredonasimilarschedule.

Theoldadage“nofoot,nohorse”holds,inthatahorsewithoutregularhoofcareby a knowledgeable professional, is unlikely to be of use to its human care-takers. Further,mosthorsemenandwomenwouldratherhiresomeoneknow-ledgeableto dothisworkthantodoitthemselves.Finally,well-trainedfarriershavethepotentialtomakeadecentliving,as evidencedby“AnAmericanFarriersJournalsurveyin2012foundthatthenationalaverageannualsalaryfor full-timefarriersintheU.S.wasreportedtobe$92,623peryearandforpart-timers,$21,153.Thisamountis anaverageandvariesaccordingtoexperiencelevel,training,etc.”(TheFarriersGuide.com)

TheproblemcurrentlyfacingthehorseindustryintheMidwestisthatthereiscurrentlynoreputablemeansby whichtoconsistentlyproducewell-trainedfarriers.Michiganresidentswishingtopursuethislineofwork, haveneededtoleavethestateforextendedperiodsoftime.Untilnow.

Michigan State University offers the MSU Farrier School: Thisisa12or24-weekprogram,housedonthe MSUHorseTeachingandResearchCenter,andwillbeledbyMSUalum,DavidHallock,CJF,ASF.Students intheprogramwillreceivebothhands-onandclassroom-basedinstructioninhoofandfarrierscience,equine anatomy and physiology, basic welding, and business.The class runs 8 hours per day, with the intention of producingindividualspoisedtobewelltrained,professionalfarrierstoservetheequineindustry.

UPCOMING FARRIER SCHOOL SESSIONS

Fall 2023 Session Spring 2024 Session

SADDLE UP! MAGAZINE DIRECTORY

Happy Halloween

39+ ACRES – LAND CONTRACT TERMS!

HOLLY, MI (ROSE TWP.): VACANT LAND! 39+ acres with frontage on two roads! Gently rolling, currently used for hay Build your own home and horse farm. Located on corner of Rose Center Rd., and Buckhorn Lake Rd., just west of Milford Rd. Mature trees on perimeter for privacy. MLS# 20221033494. Price Improvement $450,000!

NEW – KALKASKA, MI: Nice ranch home with walkout lower level, 9 acres, large barn. Easy commute to M-66 and M-131. Offered at $340,000! Call Kathie for more details!

NEW – ONAWAY, MI: VACANT LAND! Cheboygan County, Waverly Twp. 20 acres of privacy not far from Black Lake.

NEW – KALKASKA, MI: 10 great acres just off M-72. Nice 2200 sq. ft. ranch home, 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths. 30x56 garage with storage. 40x60 barn with 6 box stalls and 6 tie stalls. Price Improvement $349,000. Call Kathie for more details!

INVENTORY NEEDED!

Everything KATHIE CROWLEY lists turns to SOLD! This is a great time to sell since there isn’t enough property on the market. Contact me today!

I have qualied buyers looking for all kinds of horse properties!

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Tall pines, mature trees, expansive pond. Mins. from Howell/freeways. Property: food plot for deer, perennial gardens, barn w/built-in chicken coop/run. House: large covered front porch, back deck, private balcony off Master Suite. Main floor: large kitchen, quartz countertops, walk-in pantry, new appliances, gas range. Dining area: indoor grill. Hearth room: large windows, wood-burning fireplace. Family room: 2nd woodburning fireplace. 3 bedrooms on main floor, 1.5 baths (one has heated floors). Mud room, 1st floor laundry room. Upstairs: Master Suite, two walk-in closets, jetted tub in bath w/heated floors. Basement: walk-out through garage, partially finished, includes 2 add’l. non-conforming bedrooms, full bathroom.Attached 2 car garage, insulated w/spray foam, heated. House updates include new furnace, a/c system, well bladder, iron treatment, dual tank softener system, Generac whole house generator, new front walk, newer roof, gutters, and insulation.

oakland county tack & craft sale

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Set-up is available Friday, Dec. 1, 4-7pm and 8am Saturday, Dec. 2 and must be completed by 10AM when doors open. # 10x10 spaces x $35.00 = $ # of 4-H spaces x $25.00 = $ # extra table & chair sets (1 table/2 chairs included with each space) x $10.00 = $

Please make check payable to:

Oakland County 4-H Horse Council

– (Registration/Payment must be received by 11/24/23!!)

Send to: Debbie Morgan, Oakland County 4-H/MSU Tollgate, 28115

Meadowbrook Road, Novi, MI 48377

For more information, please contact Debbie Morgan at 248-347-3860, ext. 279 or email: morga194@msu.edu

MSU is an affirmative-action, equal-opportunity employer committed to achieving excellence through a diverse workforce and inclusive culture that encourages all people to reach their full potential. Michigan State University Extension programs and materials are open to all without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status or veteran status. Persons with disabilities have the right to request and receive reasonable accommodations.Accommodations for persons with disabilities may be requested by contacting Debbie Morgan at 248347-3860,ext.279by11/29/2023tomakearrangements.Requestsreceivedafterthisdatewillbefulfilledwhenpossible.

We

Ayla is a spotted Leopard Appaloosa mare. Can you find her within this issue of Saddle Up! Magazine?

Find Ayla! Find Ayla & Win $30!

Each month, we hide a smaller image of Ayla within the pages of Saddle Up! Magazine. When you find her, mail us a letter or email us with the page that you “spotted” her on and you will be entered in our random drawing to win a prize of $30.00!

Email: saddleupmag@gmail.com

Address: 8415 Hogan Rd., Fenton, MI 48430

Deadline: The 20th of the current month

Contest for ages 14 & under only. Include your age and address so we may mail your winnings, if you win.

SEPT 2023 CONTEST WINNER

Grace B., Ovid, Mi | Age 11

Contest Rules: Ages 14 & under only. One entry per month, per person. All correct answers will be entered in our random drawing.

PALM PARTNERSHIP TRAINING™ BUILDING A PARTNERSHIP WITH YOUR HORSE

The Lope

The lope is a Western term for the canter and should have a definite three-beat to each stride. The horse should be relaxed in his overall look, especially in the neck. A horse that has a tight neck will have a tight back, thus shortening the engagement of the horse's hind legs for energy or balance. The horse's poll should always be level with or above the wither or top line; this helps with correct balance and to create three-beat strides.

The lope is a three-beat gait. The beats are the footfalls of each stride. When a horse is on the left lead, the three beats are: right hind is beat one, second beat is the left hind and right front, third beat is the left front leg. The right front leads the opposite legs, but the same three-beat sequence.

The lope is the hardest of the three gaits to ride. It covers more ground than the trot or walk. It is a faster tempo than the trot or walk, which makes it hardest for the rider to keep his or her balance. Aid coordination is much more important in the lope in that they are quick, light and smooth—all of which requires more rider skills and training of the horse in order to have control of direction and speed.

If you have inconsistent success with the lope, always go back to school! Go back to the trot and to gain even more control of circles and straight lines to help your lope work. Move to a lengthened trot, with as much control as a slower trot, to help with similar balance issues and coordinated use of aids needed on the circle or curving line first. Straight lines are harder to keep control of direction and speed.

Working in short segments improves your lope! Start with a circle, which naturally helps control speed. Start with one circle at a working jog with energy and covering ground. In the first quarter of the second circle, ask for the lope.

Remember for your transitions: 1-3

1. Target your eye where you want to get the lope departure

2. Position your aids for the lope and wait

3. Use a soft and clear cue without you changing your correct leg position. If you keep your balance and the correct leg position as you cue the horse, you should have the coordination to cue with light aids, which horses love!

Continue the lope for 2/3 of the circle and bring your horse back to the working jog the last 1/4 of the circle.

Loping only that short distance for a number of days or weeks will allow your horse to start thinking. Then it's a short time that when he is asked for the lope, he's thinking lope. This will naturally get your horse to take his time and doesn't mean you have to lope for hundreds of circles to get a better control.

A better training method is to do short segments and perfect balanced, smooth, controlled, transitions and keep the horse on the circle. He will get strong and build a balanced self-carriage and you will be able to gain more control of the lope.

Tips: Use two cones 6' apart at each quarter of the circle, so you have a visual to keep your circle round and where to accomplish your transitions.

I also suggest that you do not do more than three circles in one direction. If you get to three circles and six transitions in one direction, change directions. When you do three circles or less in the other direction, get out of your circles and do something else. Then you can come back for another set if you wish.

** Improvement in your schooling session is a success!

** Don't drill your horse – they get bored and will challenge you more!

Cyril and Lynn offer clinics throughout the country and abroad as well as online coaching. Join them on their teaching tours or their Palm Equestrian Academy European Journeys.

MICHIGAN 4-H

https://www.canr.msu.edu/4h/

MSU Extension Adulting 101 virtual programs help teenagers and young adults demystify the obscure reality of being an “adult” through free, educational, monthly sessions Upcoming sessions in Adulting 101 include: Wealth Building on October 18 at 6pm, and Professionalism in the Workplace on November 8 at 6pm. For more details, please email Katherine Jamieson at jamies13@msu.edu.

The 2023 Oakland Co. Tack & Craft Sale will be on December 2 from 10am-2pm. Held at Springfield Oaks Activity Center in Davisburg, admission will be $1 and the cost for a 10x10 vendor space is $35. 4-H members will receive a $10 discount on their space. For more information, please contact Debbie Morgan by phone at 248347-3860, extension 279 or email her at morga194@msu.edu.

For more info about Michigan 4-H, please contact Taylor Fabus, 4-H Horse and Pony Extension Educator, tenlenta@msu.edu

updates at https://ohio4h org/families/ just-teens/carving-new-ideas-workshop Please email any questions you may have to: collegiate4hohiostate@buckeye mail.osu.edu.

Runners and Walkers to your marks! The 2023 Camp Ohio Adventure Trail 5K Fundraiser will take place on November 11 at 4-H Camp Ohio (11461 Camp Ohio Road, Louisville, OH 43071). The annual 5K Walk/Run/Ruck raises funds for Camp Ohio and the cost breakdown is: 17 & under are $25 per person, 18 & over are $35 per person, optional lunch is $15 per person. Register: https://www.4hcamp ohio.org/5k-runwalkruck.html

INDIANA 4-H

https://extension.purdue.edu/4-H/

Congratulations to all who competed in the 2023 State 4-H Horse Competitive Trail Ride! For the 2023 results, please visit https://ohio4h.org/events/state-4-hhorse-competitive-trail-ride-0 and scroll down to the 'Trail Ride Results' link.

The November dates for the Carving New Ideas workshop will be announced soon! Held at 4-H Camp Ohio, this two-night, fall camping experience fosters new ways of thinking as older youth begin to look toward their future careers and education paths. Hosted by Collegiate 4-H at Ohio State University, Collegiate 4-H members serve as session presenters, camp counselors, advisors, and more. Watch for

The Winter Vendor Fair at Canter's Cave 4-H Camp is now accepting vendor applications! All proceeds will go to benefit Canter's Cave 4-H Camp and all types of vendors are welcome! The Fair will be held on Saturday, December 9 from 9am until 3pm at 1362 Caves Road, Jackson, Ohio. Vendor spaces located inside the Main Lodge, a basic reservation will cost $20, having a table provided will be $5 extra, and they will have up to 14 spaces with electricity and 28 spaces without electricity available Vendor set-up is Friday, December 8 from 8am to 3pm or Saturday, December 9 at 7:30am. To book your space, please contact Camp Mgr. Annie Warrens at 740-286-4058 or email her at canterscave4hcamp@gmail.com.

The Ohio 4-H Horse Show Judges Clinic will be December 2 from 9am–4:30pm. The Clinic will be at the Nationwide & Ohio Farm Bureau 4-H Center (2201 Fred Taylor Drive, Columbus, OH) and the cost will be $50 per person. Registration will not open until the first week of November

For more information about Ohio 4-H Horse events, contact Dr. Kimberly Cole, the Ohio State Extension Equine Specialist, by email at cole.436@osu.edu.

Trick or Treat at the Elkhart Co. 4-H Fairgrounds on October 27! Enjoy an afternoon of treats and fun from 1pm to 5pm. We're partnering with local businesses and organizations to provide a safe, free trick-or-treat event for our community This event is free and pre-registration is not required. Costume photo contest with these categories: Spookiest Costume, Most Unique Costume, Cutest Costume, Best Group Costume (all ages can participate in this category as long as there is a child under the age of 18 participating). Costume contest winners will be announced on Tuesday, October 31. Simply show up dressed in your favorite Halloween attire and enjoy the event! Enter the fairgrounds through Gate 2 and park outside the Elkhart Co. Community Center Once parked, walk through the main gate.

Head to the Elkhart County 4-H Fairgrounds on the following dates for these meetings: 4-H Saddle Club Jr Leaders Meeting Oct. and Nov 5 from 7-9pm. 4-H Saddle Club Advisory Board Meeting Oct. 2 and Nov 6 from 8-9pm. Contact Ashley Holdeman 574-354-7403 or email her at: ashleyholdeman4h@yahoo.com.

In DeKalb, save the date for the Junior Leaders Meeting on Oct. 16. All DeKalb County Jr. Leaders will meet at the Fairgrounds Exhibit Hall (708 S Union Street) from 6pm-8pm. For more details, contact Effie Campbell 260-925-2562. DeKalb Co. Extension Homemakers will be serving a dinner featuring spaghetti, salad, garlic bread, pie and a drink on Oct. 25, 4:30pm –7pm at the DeKalb County Fairgrounds Exhibit Hall. Support your local 4-H and meet local 4-H families.

Questions? Contact Courtney Stierwalt, 4-H Youth Development Extension Specialist, by email at dickerso@purdue.edu.

4-H IS A COMMUNITY FOR ALL KIDS – In 4-H, we believe in the power of young people. Wrien by Lisa Skylis, in collaboraon with Cindy Couturier, editor, Saddle Up! Magazine

Kentucky Equine Research is an international equine nutrition, research, and consultation company serving horse owners and the feed industry. The company’s goals are to advance the industry’s knowledge of equine nutrition and exercise physiology, apply that knowledge to produce healthier, more athletic horses, and support the nutritional care of all horses throughout their life. Learn more at: https://ker.com/

Ava Hathaway, A Rising Young Star

Horsemanship runs in her family. Ava said, “I kinda grew up with horses with my mom; they've always been a part of my life. I had a couple of ponies, the one I really remember is Star, although my pony Tracy was the most famous locally and is now helping another little girl learn how to ride.” Ava's mom is an accomplished horsewoman who is also a well-known veterinarian who specializes in equine reproduction.

Transitioning to Quarter Horses as she grew, Ava was a fierce competitor in 4-H and quickly outgrew the local challenges, even before she aged out of 4-H. Part of the difficulty with staying in 4H was the scheduling of the bigger circuit shows which conflicted with the fair schedule. Ava said, “I miss being in 4-H with my friends and the environment, but the larger shows are more challenging for me, being competitive by nature.”

Today, sixteen-year-old Ava Hathaway is already a veteran competitor at major youth horse shows. For the past three years, she has competed in both the Youth World Equestrian Show (held in Oklahoma City) and the Quarter Horse Congress (at the Ohio Exhibition Center in Columbus, Ohio).

At this year's Youth competition, Ava came home with two Finalists in Level 3 Showmanship, Level Two Equestrian, and placed 5th in Horsemanship. She will return to Congress this October with her beloved Quarter Horse mare “Boo” (I Will Be a Good RV) this October.

Previously, Ava traveled to South Bend, Indiana for training, but has since transferred to work with Becky Schooler in Adrian, Michigan. Ava makes the trip 1-2 times each week to perfect her riding skills.

Not one for idleness, Ava has also shown steers for the past eight years at both the local County Fair earning Grand Champion at the Fair and Reserve at the Michigan Livestock Expo (State Fair).

The road to success hasn't always been smooth for Ava regarding choices. She was a part of Bronson Community Schools Volley Ball program, “Which is a lifestyle for our school, as we've been so successful in the past.” Due to time constraints, “I had to choose one activity, and I chose horse showing,” she said.

Ava said, “Years ago, when I was stepping up in the competition levels, I had my ups and downs, and I went through a period where my horse and I weren't clicking like a team. I began to doubt myself a little bit, though I never lost my love of riding. Thankfully, my trainers helped me work through it.”

Being an athlete, Ava didn't completely give up on school sports, as she still competes in Cross Country, running the 5 K distance race in Division 3. She made State in 2022. “I think running helps me with my riding, especially with my legs,” she said.

Having a good horse and helpful trainers is important, but the rider is still primarily in control of his/her success. Ava is a thinking rider who evaluates her performance and said, “I am

pretty hard on myself with failures. There's always growing points, and I learn from everything and take a step back and regroup for the next time.”

She added, “There's definitely nights where I lay in bed and think of stuff I can try differently Maybe this will work better I form a plan about what I think I want to do, and next time, I talk to my trainers. Something as simple as maybe a new bit that my horse might like better might help. We experiment a lot. We can be great, but we can always do better.”

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Western horse showing is known for its' 'glitz and glamour,' “But “it all comes down to the horse and rider and their overall appearance and expression. You must have ring presence for sure. Being showy, confident, and assertive sets you apart from everyone else,” said Ava.

When a show doesn't go well despite her best efforts, it can be disappointing, Ava said, “My most fearful part of showing is not performing as well as I can. Everyone is obviously trying to do his/her best, and if I can't reach my goal, it can be hard.”

Just like with Division One Football and Basketball athletics, certain equestrian schools belonging to the NCEA (National College Equestrian Association) have their own teams and recruit riders. Ava's interest is in Western riding, and she's hoping to attend one of these select colleges.

This past month, Ava and her parents (Dr. Joanna (Bronson) and TJ Hathaway) traveled to Georgia to the University of Georgia to visit the Bulldogs and evaluate their program. They will also be inspecting other colleges in the Southeastern Equestrian Conference. Among those are Texas A&M University, Auburn Univer-

sity in Alabama, and Oklahoma University, all of which are bigger Division One Schools.

Ava shared advice to other youth who may not have access to a horse to ride. She said, “The biggest thing is not letting anything tear down what you want to do. If you really want something, reach out to people. A lot of 4-H horse leaders can help you get started, even if you don't own or have access to a horse.”

For those who do show, Ava encourages them to read articles related to horse showing on sites such as “Go Horse Show” for helpful tips.

Ava hopes to follow in her mother's footsteps and study veterinary medicine, returning to Branch County after college. “Even though I will be going to college, I will be drawn back here,” she said.

Currently, she is getting some hands-on experience by performing fecal counts, doing nail trims, filling medical prescriptions, and sometimes assisting her mother with small animal C-sections. “I love animals and being around my mother watching her work made me realize how much I want to do the same,” she said.

About the author: Cindy Johnson has been a horse owner since she was 13 years old. She is also a freelance writer. If you wish to have an article written about your equine pursuits, please email her at: cjquimby@gmail.com

Ava Hathaway and I Will Be a Good RV (Boo)

What “Works”

With all the stuff out there that doesn’t work, it seems to me that there’s room for an article about what does work.

But before we start, a question. Did you ever think about what “works” means? I think that a good deal of the controversy about products and therapies is centered around what people are really saying when they say something “works.”

For a scientist, to say that something “works” means that a treatment has an effect (in our case, on the horse’s body) that can be measured objectively.

So, for example:

1. Bacterial infections can cause horses to be sick

2. Certain antibiotics can be shown to kill certain bacteria (that is, shown in laboratories, and such)

3. Those antibiotics, when given to horses infected by those bacteria, can help a horse recover from the infection by killing the bacteria

4. The antibiotic “works”

But what if the horse had an infection, it wasn’t caused by a bacteria (say, it was caused by a virus), the horse got antibiotics, and the horse got better? Many people would quite reasonably conclude that the antibiotics “worked” – the horse got better following the antibiotic. And they would be happy. Even though they would be happy, the antibiotic wouldn’t have done anything. And, even though the horse got better (the most important thing), and the people were happy, the fact that the antibiotic really didn’t “work” would also be important. In the case of giving needless antibiotics, it would be important for several reasons.

1. If antibiotics are given needlessly, it increases the pressure on bacteria, and causes increased chances of antibiotic resistance over time. This, of course, is a very real phenomenon, and now, after decades of pretty indiscriminate use of antibiotics, a pretty real problem for all species that get antibiotics. It’s such a big problem that the US Center for Disease Control has a whole section on the subject. The same thing can be said for dewormers, by the way (just substitute the word “dewormer” for “antibiotic” in the first two sentences and it reads as well).

2. It would be a waste of the person’s time and money. I mean, if you’re like me, you’ve taken advantage of plenty of chances to waste your time and money (for me, a little green sports car that I bought years ago comes to mind). Still, I personally like to make a conscious decision to waste my time and/or money, and not find out that I did it after I was enticed to do it.

3. There’s some risk to the horse from giving antibiotics, that is, horses can develop problems secondary to the administration of antibiotics. For example, antibiotic-associated colic and diarrhea do occur, and while not common, it’s certainly not something that you want to risk for your horse by using antibiotics needlessly

The point here is that it’s one thing to say that something “works” when you say that it has a measurable effect on the horse’s body – it’s quite another to say that someone thinks a treatment “works” because they think that their horse is better after receiving some treatment (any treatment). Something that has a measurable effect can often make the horse feel good –many of the things that don’t have an effect mostly make the horse’s owner feel good. And, personally, I think it’s important to try to tell which is which.

If you read through my website (doctorramey.com), you’ll find lots of articles about things that don’t work, some of which don’t work to the tune of billions of dollars a year (the vast majority of supplements come immediately to mind, but they’re certainly not the only culprit). But I thought it might be helpful to make a list of a few of the substances that do work – that is, that have measurable effects on your horse – just so you don’t think that I’m some sort of a therapeutic nihilist.*

1. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs – Let’s call them NSAID’s (so I don’t have to spell it out every time). Very useful. Everywhere. The bute, Banamine®, Equioxx® (the product made for dogs is called Previcox®, but it’s the same drug), and Ketofen® (and several others) that may even be in your tack box fall into this class of drugs.** They demonstrably do a few things, including relieve pain, relieve inflammation, and (for better or worse) get in the way of blood clotting a little bit. They are probably the most used – and overused – drugs in horses. Scientific evidence suggests that they all work about the same, so, in my opinion, it’s probably not worth spending a lot more money to use one over the other, although for some horses, one may work better than another (for me, for example, ibuprofen works well on a headache, but aspirin doesn’t and both drugs work along the same chemical pathways). They do have some reported side effects, but the concern over side effects is WAY more than the actual incidence of side effects, and sometimes that concern is exploited by people who have their own products or approaches to sell. Horses – and their owners, are lucky to have NSAIDs.

2. Antibiotics – One of the great advances in the history of medicine (still much less than 100 years old). If your horse has a bacterial infection, they can be life-saving. Certain antibiotics are more likely to kill certain bacteria than are other antibiotics. There is some incidence of side effects, but not commonly, especially when used appropriately. They are probably overused, just like in people – many infections of horses are

caused by viruses, and viruses aren’t affected in the least by the presence of antibiotics. But it’s pretty hard to practice effective medicine on horses without them.

3. Anesthetics – Local anesthetics take the sting out of painful areas. Without local anesthetics, it would be oh-so-hard to practice veterinary medicine. Local anesthetics allow me to sew up wounds, do nerve blocks on lameness exams, or treat scratched eyes (to name a few). General anesthetics let veterinarians do minor and major surgeries, like castrations, or colic surgeries, respectively. You know that they work because the horse doesn’t kick you (when you start sewing), or limp (when the sore spot is blocked), or he lies down and let’s you cut into his belly (for colic surgery). Anesthetics revolutionized the treatment of horses and I’m very glad that I never had to practice without them.

4. Corticosteroids – Powerful relievers of inflammation. Corticosteroids help stop inflammation in joints, in allergic reactions, in lungs, in the eye, and just about anywhere else. There are several different kinds, used depending on the problem, and the location. People have an exaggerated fear of these drugs, too, and particularly so in regards to an association with laminitis that has yet to be proven, although many people seem to be convinced occurs. I’ve seen plenty of horses that should have been given steroids that weren’t – it’s pretty silly to avoid an effective treatment because of a side effect that, if it occurs, doesn’t occur very often. I mean, people get killed in car accidents every day – does that mean you’re not going to drive?

5. Antiseptics – Great products that kill bacteria and even viruses on contact. Your Betadine®, your alcohol, your bleach, and your Nolvasan® are all antiseptics. Use them to clean your hands, your horse, and your horse’s stall. Gotta love ’em – gotta have ’em.

6. Sedative/Tranquilizers – For most of history, people treating horses had to do without sedative/tranquilizers. I can’t imagine. As much as I love horses, and as much as I love working on horses, sometimes they don’t love me. If a horse has a cut to sew up, an eye to examine, or a hairy body that needs to be trimmed by the whirring devil that is an electric clipper, your life will be a lot easier if your horse is sedated. Of course, there are lots of other reasons why people use sedatives, some of which are against the rules, such as giving a horse a tranquilizer prior to it setting hooves into the show ring. But they work, and they make everyone’s life easier

7. Time – Maybe I should have put this first. “Time heals all wounds.” In fact, time doesn’t heal all wounds, but without it, when it comes to treating horses, we’d be sunk. Time is also probably the biggest culprit in fooling people into thinking that some treatments work when they really don’t; if you give just about any therapy long enough, the condition may heal in spite of what you’re doing. Of course, in such circumstances the treatment usually gets the credit, and yet another opportunity to waste money arises.

8. Fluids – Is your horse clinically dehydrated? Is he having trouble keeping up with his fluid needs because of illness? Is he constipated? If so, he needs fluids. Orally or intravenously, as

needed, fluids are life savers. You can lead a horse to water, and if he doesn’t drink, you can always give him fluids (after all, there are ways around some problems).

There are certainly plenty things that work that I haven’t put on the list. Medication to treat gastric ulcers comes to mind. Surgery usually works pretty well, depending on a lot of factors, of course. Most drugs used in reproductive medicine work pretty well. Many medications used specifically for the eye (that you’ll probably never have to use) would make the list.

NOTE: Nothing works every time. Even when medications “work,” that is, even when they have a measurable effect, that doesn’t necessarily mean that they are going to be successful –an overwhelming bacterial infection can still kill a horse, in spite of him being given antibiotics, for example.

OH, BY THE WAY: In case you are wondering, there’s a reason why I don’t include most joint medications (except corticosteroids), supplements, or “alternative” treatments. Most of them don’t have much – if any – evidence that they work (in terms of having some measurable effect). They certainly have the capability of making horse owners feel better – but that’s a different definition of “works.”

Anyway, to me, it just doesn’t make any sense to pay for stuff that doesn’t have a measurable effect on the horse’s body. But not everyone feels that way, apparently Or, to paraphrase Sasha Baron Cohen, in “The Dictator,” the sometimes funny and regularly crass movie – “I love it when a horse gets a joint supplement. It’s like seeing a monkey on roller skates; it means nothing to them, but it’s so adorable for us.”

When push comes to shove, in my opinion, you owe it to you and your horse to rely on something that works – really works.

* Nihilist: “A person who accepts or champions nihilism; An abso-lute skeptic; a person who believes in the truth of nothing.” That’s not me.

** Also, your Advil®, Motrin®, Aleve®, Excedrin®, etc.

DAVID RAMEY, DVM: Dr. Ramey began his veterinary practice in 1984 in southern California. He has been providing outstanding care to horses ever since. He specializes in the care and treatment of pleasure and performance horses. His clients particularly value his no nonsense approach, focused on providing services instead of selling products, his compassion for horses, and his ethical approach to the practice of veterinary medicine. https://www.doctorramey.com/

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ANIMAL SUPPLEMENTS

Fastrack Animal Supplements – Keep your horses healthier. Healthier hooves, shinier hair coats, and more. With 16 of the top 17 horses in the National Barrel Race finals using Fastrack, why aren’t you using it? (PS-12/23)

FASTRACK ANIMAL SUPPLEMENTS

To get started, call Ray at 989.550.1999 or message: 888.266.0014, ext. 8778

AUTOMATIC WATERERS

Nelson Automatic Waterers – Nelson preferred contractor! Installed from start to finish. Many units to choose from. Maintenance free, time saving, energy efficient. Repairs and directional boring available. Horse fence installation.

R. BARNES CO., INC. – Rick Barnes Howell, MI (Livingston) (PS-12/23) 313.407.7373 cell.

Nelson Automatic Waterers – Nelson preferred provider for repair and maintenance of your Nelson Automatic Waterers Excellent response time. Most parts in stock. Honest, ethical and reliable. Will travel. Serving Michigan and Northern Ohio.

WATERFIX COMPANY – John Guthrie Dexter, MI (Washtenaw) (S-01/24) 313.418.5676 or 734.475.8898

https://www.waterfixllc.com/

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Mail: 8415 Hogan Rd., Fenton, MI 48430

BOARDING BOARDING, CONT.

Boarding in Hastings, MI (South East Grand Rapids area). Quiet, country with 165 acres of trails. Inside and outside board, large pastures w/shelters. 60x160 indoor riding arena. Lessons available. Horses for sale.

EVERVIEW FARM – 269.948.9570

Hastings, MI (Barry) (S-04/24)

Email: lee@everviewfarm.net

Online: http://www.everviewfarm.net/

Boarding: Milford, MI Across from Kensington Metro Park. 10.5 acres completely fenced. Stall or pasture board. Round pen, lean-tos. 40 years of horse experience. Owner onsite.

CMS RANCH – Bob Harris 248.787.1453 566 S. Garner Rd., Milford, MI (M-10/23)

TUTHILL FARMS, SOUTH LYON offers stalls and pasture board on over 20 acres. Miles of trail riding on the farm. Good location for trailering to nearby parks. Quality hay, outdoor arena, round pen, dry lot, heated tack room and restroom. Call Sandra Tuthill.

TUTHILL FARMS – 248.207.6201

South Lyon, MI (Livingston) (S-12/23)

Email: sandra@tuthillfarms.com

Online: https://www.tuthillfarms.com/

WANTED: Quality box stall boarding for 6 horses in Charlevoix/Harbor Spring, MI area. Complete care. Will pay up to $650/horse/mo. Call Judy – 858.922.7885 (M-10/23)

email: jwsj1942@gmail.com

EQUINE DENTISTRY

Offering Full Service Boarding, Training and Dressage lessons. Relax and enjoy your horse in a quiet, adult atmosphere. Please visit our website at www.EleventhHourFarm.com, or find us on Facebook.com/11th Hour Farm

ELEVENTH HOUR FARM – 248.755-2083

Holly, MI (Oakland) (PS-11/23)

Email: info@eleventhhourfarm.com

OPEN 24/7 – Quality Boarding: Tack locker, heated rooms, 12% pellet grain, hay, large pastures, daily turnout. We have trails, two indoor arenas, and one outdoor arena with lights.

HARDY FARMS – 313.363.2243 (call or text)

7215 N. Latson Rd., Howell, MI (M-12/23)

Email: info@hardysfarm.com

http://www.hardysfarm.com/ Find us on Facebook: Hardy Farms

LaRose Equine Dentistry, LLC: Specializing in equine dental care without the risk of sedation. Doug LaRose has 25 years of experience as an EqDT and has partnered with thousands of horse owners across Michigan to promote excellence in equine dental care.

LAROSE EQUINE DENTISTRY (PS-10/23) 989.430.8595 or 989.285.5557

www.LaRoseEquineDentistry.com

www.facebook.com/LaRoseEquineDentistry

SPRING EQUINE SERVICES

FREE Exam & Evaluation. Equine Dentistry using hand tools. Offering Saddle Fitting, Equine Sports Massage Therapy, Gait Analysis, Trigger Point Manipulation, Red Light and Heat Therapy

SPRING EQUINE SERVICES – 248.842.7821

Lauren Springstube, EqDT CESMT

PASTURE AND STALL BOARD: Lush green turnouts, quality horse care, reasonable rates. 24 hr access, 60x120 indoor arena Easy access to multiple trail systems. Boutique boarding facility where you and your horse are treated like family

ROCKING J HORSE FARM (PS-05/24)

Steve Johnson 949.274.0338

Stockbridge, MI (Kane Rd. & M-36)

Email: rockingjhorsefarm@gmail.com

Email: springequineservices@gmail.com

Facebook: Spring Equine Services (PS-01/23)

Thank

to our wonderful advertisers.

EQUINE MASSAGE

Horses In Harmony Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork, since 2001. Offering massage, Reiki, Craniosacral Therapy & Red/Infrared Light Therapy Facebook: HorsesInHarmony CESMT or Instagram: @horsesinharmony.cesmt

HORSES IN HARMONY – 810.923.5003

Howell, MI (Livingston) (M-10/23)

Email: horsesinharmony@att.net

horsesinharmony0.wixsite.com/horsesinharmony

FARRIER SERVICE

Hoof Care Matters! Over 30 years of experience in trimming, shoeing and corrective shoeing. Ask about teeth floating too! Serving Oakland County and surrounding counties.

JOHN PETERSON FARRIER – 248.303.6498

Milford, MI (Oakland) (S-08/24)

FARRIER WRITTEN BOOK

EVERYDAY PROBLEMS OF EQUINE LAMENESS: Causes, Solutions & Facts by Orthopedic Farrier, Brian D Gnegy, CMF Topics such as: Proper alignment of trailers in relation to equine anatomy Complete index on Amazon. M-09/23

Email: brian.gnegy.personal@gmail.com

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BKR8PD3X

FLY & INSECT CONTROL

Shoo-Fly Insect Control – Automatically get rid of flies, mosquitoes, and spiders. Safe and inexpensive to use. Used throughout Michigan for over 30 years. We Install or Do-It-Yourself

SHOO-FLY INSECT CONTROL

Bill Tressler – 517.927.8089

Webberville, MI (Ingham) (S-08/24)

Email: bill@radiant-energy.com

HORSE BLANKET WASH

FIBER LUXE Horse Blanket Cleaning and Repair Free Pick-up and delivery

FIBER LUXE – 800.334.1994

Email: flblankets@comcast.net

GOOD AS NEW BLANKETS – Horse blanket wash and repair service. 10 years experience.

GOOD AS NEW BLANKETS – 517.404.6336

2711 E. Grand River, Howell, MI 48843

Email: goodasnewblankets@gmail.com

Online: https://www.goodasnewblankets.com/

Tri-State Horse Shows

CLASSIFIED ADS

HORSES FOR SALE

2 FLASHY LEOPARD KNABSTRUPPER’S: Yearling filly and a weanling colt with fabulous temperaments Outstanding movement with talent for multiple high level rings of sport. Also, an exceptional flashy warmblood colt available upon weaning to a great home.

ON THE DOT FARM – 734.323.3884

Email: horseangels2@yahoo.com

Manchester, MI (Washtenaw) (M-10/23)

Facebook: On The Dot Farm LLC

MINI LEOPARD APPALOOSA YEARLING

COLT: very flashy, and very correct. Miniature pintos; dark brown and white. All have excellent conformation. Will consider reasonable offers.

DANSYN ARABIANS & MINIS

Donna Rogers – 989.667.4028 Bay City, MI (Tuscola) (M-10/23)

HORSE-THEMED BOOKS

HE REIGNS CHAPTER BOOKS: Christian horse-themed chapter books for elementaryaged children by Laurie Salisbury Reviews include: “Couldn’t put them down”, “loved them”, “inspiring and engaging”! Available on Amazon, or contact the author.

Email: lauriezkidz@yahoo.com

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B088NFW3MD https://lauriezkidz.wixsite.com/mysite

HORSE TRAILERS

SPARTA CHEVROLET & TRAILER SALES

We specialize in horse trailers: full living quarters with slideout, to smaller two horse bumper pulls. Cimarron, Lakota, Sundowner and Trails West. Great selection and even better prices!

SPARTA CHEVROLET & TRAILER SALES

Call Jim Kelly – 616.887.3456

8955 Sparta Ave. NW, Sparta, MI (M-12/23)

Email: spartatrailers@gmail.com

Online: www.spartachevytrailers.com

52 yr. old manufacturing company expanding. We are looking for individuals that have experience in agriculture and animal health, who are interested in building there own business using Christian principles. Please leave background/contact info.: 888.266.0014, ext. 8778 (S-12/23)

INCOME OPPORTUNITY LIVESTOCK

Fall 2023: Registered Icelandic Sheep Breeding Stock. Brown eggs & Lamb. Call for availability and pricing Millington, MI (Tuscola) (M-10/23)

989.302.0191, email: jd070409@gmail.com

PET & FARM SITTING

K & J HORSE AND FARM SITTING: Need to get away, call K & J – 248.667.2185! Also HORSE ART, Books and Journals (links below): www.zazzle.com/store/thistlebrook/products https://www amazon com/stores/kimberlykingstad/author/B0BZSMTH7P?

K & J HORSE AND FARM SITTING

Kim Kingstad – 248.667.2185 call or text Milford, MI (Oakland) (M-02/24)

SADDLE/LEATHER REPAIR

SADDLE, LEATHER & TACK REPAIR: Used saddles and tack bought and sold. Certified with 40 plus years of experience.

BIG BUCK SADDLERY

Roger Burkowski – 830.285.2080

Flint, MI (Genesee) (S-06/24)

SADDLE REPAIR & LEATHER WORK: New and used saddles and tack bought and sold. Complete Leather Repair available. Many years of experience. M-F 9am-6pm, Sat. 9:30-5pm.

JIM'S QUALITY SADDLE CO

Jim Moule – 248.887.4829

Milford, MI (Oakland) (S-08/24)

12 MONTH CLASSIFIED AD WITH LOGO – ONLY $120!

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Mail: 8415 Hogan Rd., Fenton, MI 48430

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CLASSIFIED ADS

SHOW CLOTHING TRUCK FOR SALE

Equestrian Wear Sewing Patterns: Western and English show clothing patterns: jackets, shirts, vests, chaps, hunt seat and saddle seat. Child through plus sizes. Printed or PDF format.

SHOW CLOTHES UNLIMITED (S-02/24)

Pegg Johnson – 810.346.2305

Email: showclothes01@hotmail.com

https://www.showclothesunlimited.com/

TACK & APPAREL

All Your Equestrian Needs! Used Western, English, Dressage, Saddleseat, Harness Equipment. Consignments welcome! Tuesday-Friday noon-6pm, Sat. 10am-4pm. Sun./eves by appt.

BRIGHTSIDE USED TACK CONSIGNMENTS

Call 989.277.8917 or find us on Facebook:

Brightside LLC Used Tack & Consignments

8555 Monroe Rd., Durand, MI 1/4 mile off I-69 between Lansing & Flint, MI

TRAINING & LESSONS

Beautiful boarding and training facility for all breeds/disciplines. Green horses and firsttime riders welcome! Offering western dressage and short-term intensive training programs.

IRONWOOD FARM – Dorothy 313.215.1944

Leonard, MI (Oakland) (S-10/23)

Email: ironwoodfarmdressage@yahoo.com

Online: Ironwood Farm Equestrian LLC

GRAND OAKES FARM TRAINING Facility

(includes board): Specializing in youth and nonpro all-around horses. Lessons and coaching at shows. Quality horse care, indoor and outdoor arenas, quiet atmosphere, private facility

GRAND OAKES FARM

Paul Oakes – 248.421.1757 (text)

Email: grandoakesfarm@comcast.net

Holly, MI (Oakland) (S-06/24)

THE TRAVELING TRAINER offers training, lessons, consulting at your facility or mine. Over 30 years of experience. Bachelor’s degree in Equestrian Studies from the University of Findlay. Also quality horses for sale. Find us on Facebook, or on Instagram: #thehappyhorse house, or: http://www.thetravelingtrainer.net/

THE TRAVELING TRAINER LLC

Ann-Marie Lavallee – 810.796.3510

Dryden, MI (Lapeer) (S-08/24)

Email: thetravelingtrainer3@gmail.com

2001 Chevy 2500 Duramax Diesel: Crew cab, dark green, 223,000 miles with gooseneck ball hitch. Very clean interior, new doors, and tailgate. New fuel injectors, new glow plugs, new fuel lines and fuel tank. Starts right up, runs great. Wonderful truck, just a bit rusty THE TRAVELING TRAINER LLC

Ann-Marie – 810.796.3510, 810.542.3858 Dryden, MI (Lapeer) (S-10/23)

Email: thetravelingtrainer3@gmail.com

Proudly serving equestrians in Michigan, Ohio & Indiana since 1996. 810.714.9000 (M-F 10am-3pm)

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SHOWS

Goals & Intentions

We all hit against those times when we feel stuck. Getting more clarity on where and how we want to arrive will help us navigate through times when we don't feel like we're making any progress. Examining the difference between goals and intentions may offer some insights that can be very useful for getting ourselves out of those stuck spots.

Although I don't remember where, I’ve learned that it's human nature to want to progress. When we don't feel that we are making any headway, we can lose some of our shine. We need to look at where we want to go and how we want to get there. Sometimes clarity slips and knowing what we are actually aiming for helps us be able to set our sites for it. If we don't know where we want to be, how will we know when we get there?

Goal setting is not something that flows naturally for me. If you had asked me a short while ago what I thought about the topic, I would have told you that I hated it. That I was awful at it (sharing this in case you are having some internal resistance to setting a goal or doubt that you will be able to achieve your goal). I get it. This is something that helped me drop some of my resistance and utilize my brain and it's wiring to get to better places.

Goals and intentions combine to help us map out where we want to go and how we want to get there. A big difference between goals and intentions are their external and internal orientation. Both are important, and can be utilized more effectively when we know the superpowers of each.

Kimberly Cardeccia MA, LPC started Hidden Promise because of what she was witnessing in her counseling clients and riding students. Riding students started disclosing information in conversations much deeper, much quicker than her counseling clients. Interestingly, the riding students were also reporting changes in their lives outside of the riding arena as a result of their interaction with horses. In addition, Kim noticed how many riders were facing some type of apprehension, fear or even traumatic reaction around the horses. She made it her mission to help with lack of confidence and all of its fallout.

Read more at: https://confidencethroughconnection.com/

A goal describes what we want to do in the future. It focuses on accomplishments that are outside of us, something we can clearly check off a list. It's what we want to do.

Intentions are connected to what is important inside of us. Our hearts, our passion, our purpose. It's how we want to feel. It's how we want to be. Horses feel our intentions. Deliberately choosing our intentions will align our actions with what we truly desire in our interactions.

If we don't keep our intention in our awareness, we can slip into frustration or disappointment when there is a challenge to meeting our goal. We might need to adjust our action steps toward our goals based on our intentions.

Pausing to regain our balance and our focus is always allowed and encouraged. Checking in to make sure we are heading where we want to go in a meaningful way makes the journey enjoyable. That's what this is all about, enjoying the journey The journey is life. The choice is yours.

Everything You Need To Know About Why Horses Are Clipped

There are countless aspects of caring for your horse. As a horse owner, it is your responsibility to make sure your horse is clean, fed, healthy, and well-groomed. One important grooming task is clipping. While some equestrians choose to steer clear of clipping for several reasons, I believe there are countless benefits to this grooming technique.

Why are horses clipped? Horses naturally grow a thick winter coat. While this is highly beneficial in the wild, most horses are kept in warm environments during the colder months. During regular exercise, this thick coat can cause your horse to sweat excessively. This sweat, combined with cooler temperatures, makes it hard for your horse to regulate its body temperature. While this is the most common reason why horses are clipped, it is actually not the only reason. Clipping can benefit horses in several other ways depending on the animal. In this article, we will discuss a few of the reasons horses are clipped as well as reasons to steer clear of clipping.

We will also share the most common types of horse clips as well as some helpful tips for preparing your horse for clipping. Let’s start by looking at the many reasons why horse owners choose to clip their horses.

Reasons Why Horses Are Clipped: Equestrians choose to clip their horses for a wide variety of reasons from aesthetics to practicality Here are a few of the most common reasons why you may consider clipping your horse.

Clipping Helps Your Horse Regulate Its Body Temperature: The primary reason horse owners choose to clip their horses is to help the horse regulate their body temperature. In the fall months, horses begin to grow a thick winter coat. This thick coat serves an important role in keeping them warm throughout the winter. However, if the horse engages in regular activity yearround, this coat can cause them to sweat excessively The combination of sweat and cold air makes it challenging for the horse to regulate their body temperature. Clipping the horse’s thick winter coat minimizes sweat and allows the horse to dry off more effectively following a workout.

Clipping Minimizes Grooming Time: While we all love spending time with our horses, grooming is one task that seems to never end. Adding a thick winter coat to the equation increases the time it takes to groom your horse. If your horse is kept inside most of the winter, and if they engage in regular activity, clipping them is a great way to minimize grooming time.

Clipping Encourages Glossy Summer Coats: There is nothing better than a shiny, healthy summer coat. Much like getting a haircut encourages human hair to grow, clipping encourages your horse’s coat to grow back glossier than ever

Clipping May Be Necessary for Horses With Cushing’s Disease: Cushing’s Disease, or Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction, is an endocrine disorder that is common in older horses and ponies. As one of the most common equine diseases,

Cushing’s Disease causes changes to the coat, weight and muscle loss, hormonal imbalance, and laminitis, among other concerns.

Some horses with Cushing’s Disease are unable to shed their winter coat naturally, making clipping a necessity

Reasons To Not Clip Your Horse: Although there are many ways clipping benefits both you and your horse, there are several legitimate reasons to stray from this grooming practice.

Don’t Clip Your Horse If They Spend Winter Outside: It should go without saying that a horse’s thick winter coat is there for a reason. If your horse spends the majority of the winter months outside, you should not clip its coat. Even with its winter coat intact, you may still need to provide your horse with a winter blanket for additional warmth and protection from the elements.

Older Horses May Not Benefit From Clipping: Older horses often have a more difficult time regulating their body temperature, especially during the cold winter months. It is often best to refrain from clipping your older horses as they are likely less active, and more prone to cold, than their younger companions.

Don’t Clip Your Horse If They Are Inactive: While many horses are ridden year-round, some are significantly less active during the winter months. If your horse is less active during the winter, it is best to refrain from clipping its coat. Unless your horse will be working up a sweat regularly, their coat provides them with great protection and warmth.

When Should You Clip Your Horse? Horses begin to grow their winter coats towards the beginning of fall. Because of this, most horse owners choose to clip their horses for the first time in September or October It is best to stop clipping your horse no later than February to allow for adequate growing time for their summer coat.

Some horses that are shown in competitions are clipped yearround to maintain a uniform appearance. Additionally, as these horses generally follow the circuit in warm climates, clipping helps them remain cool with minimal sweating.

How Often Do You Have to Clip a Horse? Between the months of September and December, a horse’s coat will grow at an astonishing rate. Most horse owners decide to clip their horse every 3 to 4 weeks leading up to Christmas. However, most equestrians find that they only need to clip their horse two or three times each winter.

Regardless of how often you choose to clip your horse, it is wise to stop clipping in February Clipping your horse later than February will likely interfere with the glossy summer coat for which you are hoping.

Common Types of Horse Clipping Patterns: Like human haircuts, there are many types of horse clips. Some horse clips remove the entire winter coat while more conservative clips remove only areas where your horse will sweat. Let’s take a look at a few of the most common clipping patterns.

Full Body Clipping Pattern: The full body clip is likely the first thing that comes to mind when you think of clipping your horse. This clipping pattern removes the hair on the coat, legs, head, and ears. While it provides a uniform appearance, the full body clip is only recommended for horses that will not spend any time outside during the winter months and will be worked regularly.

Hunter Clipping Pattern: Perhaps the second most common clipping pattern is the hunter clip. This pattern removes a majority of the coat except for the area under the saddle and the legs. The main benefit of the hunter clip pattern is that it provides protection from the saddle. By leaving hair on the legs, you are providing additional warmth and protection from the winter elements.

Blanket Clipping Pattern: The blanket clip leaves a blanket of thick coat that extends from the withers to the point of the tail. Half of the hair on the horse’s head is removed while the hair on the legs remains. This clipping pattern is well-suited for horses who remain active during the winter yet spend time outside as the weather allows.

Chaser Clipping Pattern: Similar to the blanket clip, the chaser clip is great for horses who would benefit from minimized sweating yet require additional warmth at times. This clipping pattern leaves the hair on the top of the horse’s neck, providing added warmth to the neck muscles. Like other clipping patterns, the hair on the legs is left on to provide warmth and protection.

Trace Clipping Pattern: The trace clip leaves most of the hair on the horse’s head, only removing half of the hair on the neck. This clipping pattern is well-suited for horses who are kept outside during the day but brought inside during the frigid temperatures often felt at night.

Irish Clipping Pattern: The Irish clip is one of the most simple clipping patterns that require a minimal time commitment. This clipping pattern removes the hair from the areas that your horse sweats most profusely including the neck and armpits. Some horse owners also choose to remove the hair of the head as well as the hair extending from the poll to the point of the stifle.

Bib Clipping Pattern: The bib clip is the most conservative clipping pattern removing the hair only from the front of the neck and the chest. Occasionally, horse owners choose to remove the hair under the belly to the girth as well.

Preparing Your Horse for Clipping: Especially if your horse has never been clipped before, you must spend adequate time in preparation. There are several things you must do to prepare your horse for clipping. Diligence in these areas will ensure that your horse is safe while receiving a smooth, even clip.

The Blanket Clip

Bathe Your Horse: Before you clip your horse, you must ensure that they are clean and dry. Most equestrians choose to bathe their horse the day before they plan to clip to allow adequate drying time. Once your horse is clean and dry, use a tail bandage and band the mane. This will ensure that you do not accidentally catch them with your clippers.

Prepare Your Area: It is always best to clip your horse during a quiet time when there are few distractions. Ensure that your clipping area is well lit and out of the wind. If your horse is antsy during the clipping process consider putting up a hay net to help entertain and distract them.

Make sure you have everything you need including a grooming brush for stray hairs. It is also important to have a clean rug ready to put on your horse following the clipping process. Depending on the time of year, and the temperature while you are clipping, you may want to cover one half of your horse while you clip the other half to prevent them from catching a chill.

Prepare Your Horse: Never attempt to clip a horse on an empty stomach. Make sure you plan to feed your horse immediately before you begin clipping. It is always recommended that you use chalk to plan out your clipping pattern. This will not only save you time but will also prevent mistakes, especially if you are newer to clipping

Desensitizing Your Horse for Clipping: If your horse is young or has a nervous demeanor, you must work to desensitize them before you begin clipping. There are a few things you can do to aid in this process including standing next to an older horse while they are clipped, running your clippers over your horse while they are switched off, familiarizing them with the sound and vibrations of the clippers.

Things to Consider Before Clipping Your Horse: Before you clip your horse, there are several things you must consider. Here are just a few of the questions you must ask yourself:

What Is Your Horse’s Winter Routine? How often do you ride your horse in the winter? Do they spend most of the day outside or are they kept inside? This will help you decide if, and how, to clip your horse. It is best to begin with a conservative clipping pattern if you are unsure of how much time your horse will spend outdoors. Remember, you can always clip additional areas, but you can never force the hair to grow back more quickly.

Clipping Your Horse, Continued

Do I Have the Proper Clipping Tools? To successfully clip your horse, you must have the right tools for the job. If you do not have the tools you need, consider asking a fellow horse owner if they would let you borrow their clipping tools. If you are not confident in your ability to clip your horse, ask a friend for help.

In Conclusion: Clipping your horse can be an intimidating process, especially for a newer horse owner You must observe an experienced equestrian and ask questions before you attempt clipping your own horse. If it is possible, ask a mentor or experienced horse owner to oversee the clipping process during your first few attempts.

While it may sound simple, clipping a horse can actually be quite complex. Be patient with yourself, and with your horse, as you find a system that works well for both of you. Remember that with time, practice, and patience, you will soon be clipping your horse with ease!

Hi, I’m Carmella. My husband and I started Equine Helper to share what we’ve learned about owning and caring for horses. I’ve spent my whole life around horses, and I currently own a POA named Tucker Visit: https://equinehelper.com/

https://www.youtube.com/@EquineHelper

https://www.pinterest.com/equinehelper/

https://www.instagram.com/equinehelper/

DesignAUniqueClippingPattern

Take a piece of cardboard and draw the pattern of your choice. Cut it out with scissors or an exacto. Place the piece(s) on your horse (hold them in place with double sided tape), then trace them with chalk. Now you’re all set to clip. Be safe and have fun!

ClippingPatternsforHorses

Join us for camping and trail riding at the:

IHTA

Chili Cook Off

October 6-8, 2023

Ionia Recreaon Area, 2880 W. David Hwy., Ionia, MI (Use Saranac, MI when using GPS)

Saturday Events:

Poker Ride: 10am start. Last rider back by 3pm

50/50 Tickets: Sold all day, drawing during dinner

Chili Cook Off: Enter by 4pm – Judging at 5pm

Prizes Awarded for 2-3 Places

* Bring your muffin ns to carry chili sample cups * (depending on number of entries)

Requested Donaon: $8.00 and a dish to pass

Please consider bringing a side dish to compliment chili

ALL DRAWINGS/WINNERS ANNOUNCED DURING DINNER ALL WHO ENTER MUST BE CAMPING!

hps://www.ioniahorsetrailsassociaon.org/

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Saddle Up! Magazine proudly offers horse associations and trail riding groups special advertising rates in our Annual Membership Drive that’s featured in our January 2024 printed edition. All ads will be printed in black and white, but will appear online in full color on our website at: www.saddleupmag.com for 12 months. We will post the Membership Drive section on both of our Facebook pages numerous times throughout the year as well, to help remind people to join your group.

Utilize your space for your membership form, your 2024 event schedule or anything you wish, it’s your choice! PLUS: Your association will receive a free one year banner ad (a $120 value) on our website.

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ACTUAL SIZE | FULL COLOR | FREE DESIGN

AD SIZE: 3.43” wide x 2.16” high | Full Color (RGB) PAYMENT: Pre-paid $390 or pre-paid $130 for three consecutive months (all credit cards/PayPal accepted).

DEADLINES: The 16th of the month for the following months issue.

Monly Equine Show

BRINGING AWARENESS & EDUCATION TO MICHIGAN'S EQUINE COMMUNITIES

BRINGING AWARENESS & EDUCATION TO MICHIGAN'S EQUINE COMMUNITIES

THIRD THURSDAY OF EACH MONTH @ 7PM

Join us for a fun and educational exploration of an equine topic every month.

Don’t miss out on our monthly prize giveaways!

Co-hostedby:BrandtClarkandTammyTyler

Sponsorship Opportunities

A show sponsorship is $300 each which includes a maximum one minute video ad. We will send the upload directions. Shows are produced monthly with four sponsor ads included. Advertising deadline is the second Monday of each month.

Prize Donation Acceptance

Audience Reach~ 20,000+

Our show attenders love to win prizes! Donating products and services from your equine related business is a great way to directly advertise to the equine community. Prizes can be awarded in one of three ways:

1. The winners name will be sent to you for follow up.

2. You can mail the items to Tammy at the address below

3. Drop off items or gift cards at Tom’s Western Store, Ovid, MI with a MIEN label.

Each monthly show will be presented live on the Michigan Equine Network Facebook page. All sponsors, product donators, speakers and hosts will be tagged in the show which will increase audience reach. Shows will be recorded and will be able to be watched at a later date via the Michigan Equine Network Facebook page. Links to all shows will be available on YouTube, Instagram and the Michigan Equine Network website. A monthly shows audience reach should likely be 20,000 people with the potential to reach more individuals directly in the equestrian, livestock and agricultural communities.

For more information or episode suggestions, contact:

Brandt Clark (989) 506-9643

Email: brandt@michiganequinenetwork.com

Tammy Tyler (989) 213-7817

Email: tammy@michiganequinenetwork.com

Please make checks payable to: Tammy Tyler (add MI Equine Network in the memo line)

Mailing address:

1004 Hollister Rd., Ovid, MI 48866 A receipt will be emailed to you.

https://www.michiganequinenetwork.com/