NCAA Weighs Decision on the Future of Collegiate Equestrian Sport
January 8, 2015 Comments Off on NCAA Weighs Decision on the Future of Collegiate Equestrian Sport
I remember my first Intercollegiate horse show as a member of the Colby-Sawyer College Chargers. We arrived at Mount Holyoke College in our big, blue school bus, surrounded by much larger schools in their luxury charter buses. It was incredibly intimidating, much like any big show, but this time, instead of just my horse and I out there on our own, I was part of a team of riders that cheered each other on. Our mounts were chosen from names in a basket, which evened the playing field for everyone. I will never forget the powerful mixture of anticipation, camaraderie, and school pride that came with the experience.
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The news headlines sounded like they were straight out of a script from a major motion picture. A disease, once thought to no longer be a threat, sweeps across villages in West Africa causing numerous deaths and overwhelms local clinics. The disease then infects the very care workers sent in to help. Unknowingly, some of those infected travel back home, potentially spreading the disease from a Third World country to one of the most powerful and richest nations in the world.
Continue reading …Deciphering Complicated Horse Feed Tags
January 6, 2015 Comments Off on Deciphering Complicated Horse Feed Tags
Horse owners can walk into any feed store and face a myriad of nutritional choices. Choosing the right one depends on many factors, including the age of the horse, its work load, any metabolic issues, and whether it’s a breeding animal—like a pregnant mare. Deciding what to feed your horse for optimum nutrition takes a concerted effort on the part of the owner and veterinarian. Often, the advice of a good nutritionist can be helpful as well.
Continue reading …What’s Your Opinion? – APHA Rule Change Proposals for 2016
January 5, 2015 Comments Off on What’s Your Opinion? – APHA Rule Change Proposals for 2016
If you’ve ever complained about a decision made by your respective breed association or wish a new rule would be created, last summer, the American Paint Horse Association gave members the chance to submit rule change proposals and let their voices be heard. Now, the association is looking for input from its members on the list of the most recently submitted rule changes.
Continue reading …Navigating a Sea of Stallions! – Choosing the Right Sire
January 4, 2015 Comments Off on Navigating a Sea of Stallions! – Choosing the Right Sire
When it comes to seeking the best sire for our mares, this ancient philosophy still holds true: choosing the right cross by taking deliberate steps can make a huge difference in the future of our foals. However, with so many stallions to choose from, how do we navigate through the vast choices to apply intelligent execution?
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Leptospirosis is a disease that can affect many species, including humans, dogs, livestock and horses. “Lepto” is caused by spiral-shaped bacteria called spirochetes. These pathogens are often found in wildlife populations, including rats and mice. The leptospires can survive in surface water, stagnant ponds, streams, or moist soil for long periods at mild temperatures. They are short-lived in cold or hot, dry weather.
Continue reading …Chafin Performance Horses – A New Twist on an Old Tradition
January 2, 2015 Comments Off on Chafin Performance Horses – A New Twist on an Old Tradition
It’s always exciting to return home from a big show with a new horse or big prize, but this past year, Jim and Heather Chafin put a new twist on this tradition. When points were tallied at the end of this year’s Reichert Celebration, Jim Chafin won the High Point Trainer Award. Along with the honor, the Reichert family presented him with a brand new Smartcar. Jim recalls the event with his characteristic modesty. “It was pretty exciting,” he says. “I’m so grateful to the Reichert and my clients. I’m blessed to work with such great people and horses. It’s been a good year for our clients and us.”
Continue reading …Your Complete Guide to Western Dressage – Book Review
January 1, 2015 Comments Off on Your Complete Guide to Western Dressage – Book Review
If you still believe that “Western” and “dressage” don’t belong in the same sentence, you’re in a dwindling minority. Over the years, the training of horses has evolved, leaving behind the rough, one-method-fits-all “breaking” of young horses and the heavy use of bit and spur in developing performance horses. Trainers in all disciplines now recognize the value of patient and humane interaction with each horse as an individual and potential partner.
Continue reading …Selecting and Starting the Ideal Yearling Longe Line Prospect
December 31, 2014 Comments Off on Selecting and Starting the Ideal Yearling Longe Line Prospect
Longe Line classes can be a great way to show your yearling and have fun introducing him to the world, but it can also lead to burnout and dismal under saddle performance. With futurities and incentives luring exhibitors with big payouts, more and more young horses are being campaigned. The popularity of these classes increases while some are cautioning restraint. Are we pushing too hard on young minds and bodies? Three highly successful Longe Line exhibitors share their insight about how they train, show, and win without ruining a young horse’s prospects for a long show career.
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Claiming the No. 1 spot is a coveted position in the horse show world, whether it’s class-by-class, show-by-show, or even more sought after, a win in Year-End All-Around standings or High Point categories. The race for the title each year is a long and competitive one that kicks off in January and continues until the last class of the last show in December.
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