Alberta Bits 2020 Spring Edition

Understanding the role of

THE ALBERTA SPCA

Equine

Making the Match

DIGESTIVE HEALTH

BETWEEN KIDS & PONIES

SPRING 2020

Andalusians

P U B L I C AT I O N S MA I L AG R E EME N T # 4 0 0 5 0 2 9 7

THE HORSE of KINGS Plus HOW TO PULL A SHOE JOIN OUR COMMUNITY W E S H A R E Y O U R PA S S I O N

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ALBERTA BITS I SPRING 2020

3

SPRING 2020; VOLUME 14, ISSUE 1

Alberta Bits is the Alberta Equestrian Federation’s official member magazine. It serves the equestrian community of horses and riders of all ages, interests and involvement as Alberta’s premier resource for education, information and support.

THE ALBERTA EQUESTRIAN FEDERATION HAS BEEN INCORPORATED SINCE 1978

Alberta Bits magazine is mailed four times a year (Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter) to all current AEF members and is made available at the office and special events attended by the AEF. Alberta Bits is distributed throughout Alberta with news and events on behalf of recreational, sport, breeds & industry and educational sectors of the Alberta horse industry. Alberta Bits is distributed to approximately 18,000 members; 9,000 households and businesses, an exclusive list of tack and equine establishments and at events and trade shows annually.

AEF BOARD OF DIRECTORS

PRESIDENT PRESIDENT ELECT

SECRETARY

TREASURER

INDIVIDUAL

INDIVIDUAL

INDIVIDUAL

INDIVIDUAL

INDIVIDUAL

INDIVIDUAL

INDIVIDUAL

INDIVIDUAL

INDIVIDUAL

Lauren Parker 403.813.1055 lmparker@shaw.ca Sandy Bell 403.700.7880 windhorseretreat@gmail.com Tiara Chambers 780.897.7446 royaltequestrian@gmail.com Nicolas Brown 587.988.3590 bruchev@gmail.com Trish Mrakawa 403.938.6398 trish@willowgrovestables.com Mazlie Cole 587.888.2363 statikequine@gmail.com Jason Edworthy 403.651.5678 jedworthy@spring-bank.ca Janine Leroux 403.968.3311 j_zuk@hotmail.com Melonie Myszczyszyn 587.896.8999 meloniemysz@gmail.com Brenda Spanier 403.932.2936 brendaspanier@gmail.com Becky Taylor 403.507.9935 beckyt.rvt.mapc@gmail.com Robert Simpson 780.628.2356 rms210@mail.usask.ca Alison Douglas 403.762.8570 thealicat@shaw.ca

AEF STAFF

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Sonia Dantu execdir@albertaequestrian.com 403.253.4411 ext 5

MEMBERSHIP

Norma Cnudde membership@albertaequestrian.com 403.253.4411 ext 1 MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS

Megan Dudley marketing@albertaequestrian.com 403-253-4411 ext 6

COACHING

Erin Rabeau coaching@albertaequestrian.com 403.253.4411 ext 3 COMPETITIONS

Hilary MacDonald competitions@albertaequestrian.com 403.253.4411 ext 2 FINANCE, GENERAL INQUIRIES

Rita Bernard info@albertaequestrian.com 403.253.4411 ext 7

OFFICE HOURS: 8:30AM TO 4:30PM, MONDAY TO FRIDAY, EXCEPT HOLIDAYS ALBERTA BITS IS PUBLISHED BY WESTERN PERFORMANCE PUBLISHING IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE AEF

FOR EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES CONTACT: ALBERTABITS@ALBERTAEQUESTRIAN.COM MANAGING EDITOR Jennifer Webster ART DIRECTOR Kendra Roberts PUBLICATION COMMITTEE

Sonia Dantu • Megan Dudley • Piper Whelan CONTRIBUTORS

Birte Rauch D-Z Photography Higher Trails Brigitte Meyer Scott Phillips Rockin A Photography Danielle Walton Photography Piper Whelan

ADVERTISING SALES REPRESENTATIVES

Sally Bishop 403.815.1289 sallysuebishop@gmail.com ADVERTISING SALES DEADLINES Summer 2020: April 17, 2020

FOR A MEDIA KIT AND/OR RATE CARD PLEASE CONTACT ALBERTABITS@ALBERTAEQUESTRIAN.COM or marketing@albertaequestrian.com. All material is copyright 2020. Ideas and opinions expressed in articles do not necessarily reflect the ideas or opinions of the AEF. Alberta Bits reserves the right to accept, and/or edit material submitted for publication. The AEF makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information contained therein, but assumes no liability in cases of error or changing conditions. Any business relations or other activities undertaken as a result of the information contained in Alberta Bits, or arising therefrom, is the responsibility of the parties involved and not of the AEF. We welcome signed letters to the editor, but reserve the right to publish, edit for grammar, taste and length. For reprint information, please contact execdir@albertaequestrian.com

6 PRESI DENT ’S MESSAGE 6 EX ECUT I VE DI RECTOR’S MESSAGE 7 K I D’ S C O R N E R 8 BITS & PIECES Suspension of the Olds College Equine Program

10 A EF PROFI LE Understanding the role of the Alberta Society for the Prevention of Cruelty

to Animals.

14

HOW TO Pull a loose shoe in an emergency situation.

16

HORSEK EEPI NG Promoting equine digestive health.

18

22

BREED PROFI LE The alluring Andalusian is a winning choice, no matter the discipline.

FORT MCMURRAY REBOUND Four years after devastating wildfires destroyed many of their homes,

businesses and stables, here’s how some Fort McMurray families have bounced back.

25

T R A I NER’S C ORNER Known for her prowess with ponies, trainer, clinician and book author

Lee McLean gives us the goods on finding suitable mounts for kids.

28

ASK A B OUT I NSUR A NCE The research is in and the CapriCMW program is still doing a great job of

protecting the interests of AEF members.

30 CLUB & BUSI NESS LI ST I NGS Understanding the role of

THE ALBERTA SPCA

Equine

DIGESTIVE HEALTH

Making the Match

BETWEEN KIDS & PONIES

SPRING 2020

ALBERTA EQUESTRIAN FEDERATION

120, 251 Midpark Blvd SE Calgary, AB T2X 1S3 Toll Free: 1.877.463.6233 Phone: 403.253.4411 Fax: 403.252.5260

Andalusians

THE HORSE of KINGS

albertaequestrian.com

P U B L I C AT I O N S MA I L AG R E EME N T # 4 0 0 5 0 2 9 7

THE AEF GRATEFULLY ACKNOWLEDGES FINANCIAL SUPPORT FROM ALBERTA SPORT CONNECTION

PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT #40050297 • PRINTED IN CANADA • ISSN 1918 - 7114 RETURN UNDELIVERABLE MAIL TO : ALBERTA EQUESTRIAN FEDERATION 120, 251 MIDPARK BLVD SE CALGARY, AB T2X 1S3

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ALBERTA BITS I SPRING 2020

Plus HOW TO PULL A SHOE JOIN OUR COMMUNITY W E S H A R E Y O U R PA S S I O N

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ON THE COVER: The exquisite Andalusian is a popular breed for many reasons.

IN MEMORY

Photo courtesty of Lisa Madren and Eventing Nation.

The Alberta Equestrian Federation was deeply saddened to hear of the sudden and tragic passing of one of our own community members on February 29, 2020. Katharine Morel and her horse, Kerry On were avid Eventers who worked their way up competitive levels to make their international debut in 2019. Our sincerest condolences, thoughts and strength go out to the family and friends of Katharine Morel and Kerry On.

Photo courtesy of Scott Linklater ALBERTA BITS I SPRING 2020

5

Message from President, Lauren Parker It’s hard to believe we’re already into the first months of not only a brand new year, but a brand new decade. I for one am excited for 2020 and the wonderful things that lie ahead for us as an organization, and as an industry. The end of 2019 was a busy one as we began to turn our attention to the strategic planning and succession planning sessions we will be undertaking in May. These sessions will allow us collectively to re-evaluate goals as a Board of Directors, take into account feedback we receive from members, when beginning to set our critical goals in conjunction with renewing our Strategic Plan.

As we move into a new membership year, I’d like to remind everyone about membership renewals and our referral program. This is not only a wonderful way to engage those around you to get involved and enjoy all of the benefits that an AEF membership provides, but will add a little extra to your wallet at the end of the year. The referral program enables you to “earn” your membership for free the following year (2021); all you have to do is refer new members to receive a $5 credit; simply have the member mention your name and AEF number.

On March 21, the Board of Directors and office staff invite you to join us at Stride With Us, in conjunction with our AGM, being hosted in Calgary, AB. The evening will be one filled with inspiration and celebration, as we hand out Provincial Awards, and connect and network with equestrian enthusiast from all across the province. We look forward to seeing you there.

On a personal note, I want to say thank you to each and every one of you who I’ve had the distinct pleasure of interacting with over the past year. You’ve made me a better horsewoman through the conversations we’ve had, a better representative at a national level of your values and beliefs of what you want to see for the horse industry, and a better president by continuing to support equine activities within Alberta. I look forward to all that the “Roaring 20’s” will bring us and hope to continue the conversations we have on a daily basis.

Until next time, happy trails. AB

Message from Executive Director, Sonia Dantu Accountability. Webster’s Dictionary defines “accountability” as “the quality or state of being accountable; an obligation or willingness to accept responsibility for one’s actions.” Notice the adjectives describing accountability: quality, obligation, willingness and responsibility.

AEF prides itself in creating an accountability culture. We streamline “accountability” to carry a positive connotation: “Clear commitments that – in the eyes of others – have been kept.”

Nonprofits perform some of the most important functions in society that support and strengthen communities. Nonprofits are also complex with multiple sources of accountability.

We must consider public image, especially as it influences membership and those who volunteer their time. We have legal and financial obligations to the government, donors and most importantly, to our paying members.

Over the past year, AEF has strived to ensure accountability.

A few ways this was accomplished: • Fees have not increased since 2014, and 2020 is no exception.

• Expenses have come in under budget for another year.

• Advocating for equestrian use has continued by participation on parks and recreation committees.

• Member investments have sustained for athlete and professional development.

• Extra efforts have been put into new programs to attract new participants.

• Launched new membership platform.

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ALBERTA BITS I SPRING 2020

• Increased reach in the community through events, social media and attending meetings.

• Moved to a new office, with more space, for the same costs.

2020 will be a challenging year for many due to the economy; AEF is no exception. The provincial government’s announcement in late 2019 of a reduction to the sport budget by $1.5M will affect our core funding.

One of the three strategic plan goals recently achieved by AEF was to ensure we had a reserve emergency contingency fund in the event government or casino funding is drastically reduced, or if we are faced with economical down turns, inflation, higher costs, reduced income and other factors.

Accountability to our members is about quality (programs), obligation (legally), willingness (passion for our mission) and responsibility (fiduciary). We want to share our commitments and want you to know they have been kept.

AEF is a community, an organization that is about equines and the people who share this passion. We have an obligation to be accountable to you, and this will continue to be so.

Many thanks to the membership for your ongoing support, the Board for volunteering their time and our dedicated staff. We look forward to serving our community through 2020 and beyond. AB

S ’ D I K CORNER

NAME THE PARTS OF THE HORSE 2

3

1

How well do you know the anatomy of your horse?

Label them correctly:

4

8 5 6

7

9

21 10 answers on page 13

20 19

1

18

11

17

12

16

13 14

15 2 3

SPRING FEVER ACROSS 1. Word to describe the way a horse moves. May include walk, trot, canter, gallop.

5. The physical structure and build of a horse.

7. Rider who specializes in riding racehorses?

8. Soft part of the horse’s head that includes the mouth, nostrils, chin, lips, and front of the nose.

5

6 7

8

4

DOWN 1. An event or show that consists of games on horseback.

2. The left-hand side of a horse.

3. A wide white marking that goes down face.

4. The V-shaped part of the horse’s foot which acts as a shock absorber.

6. What is a newborn horse called?

ALBERTA BITS I SPRING 2020

7

BITS N PIECES

Olds College Equine Science Program Suspension What this means for Alberta’s NCCP Equestrian Instructor/Coaching Program.

Shortly after the Alberta Government announced cuts to Olds College’s operating budget by $663,000, the college announced that it would be suspending the well-known Equine Science program. As part of the program, the college was able to offer a coaching major to its students. The major was largely focused around the Equestrian Canada NCCP Instructor/Coaching program and curriculum that is delivered by AEF. While the program is suspended and not taking new students at this time, those who want to continue with the NCCP Equestrian Instructor/Coaching programs can do so through AEF. The suspension of this program will be a loss for the Alberta equine industry, but essentially will have no

bearing on individuals looking to complete and pursue their NCCP Equestrian Instructor/Coach certification in future.

The college has been and will continue to be a very valued partner of the AEF. The Equine Science program has been an integral part of the equine community in Alberta for many years. We remain positive that after the college reevaluates the program, they will once again be able to take in new students and continue to offer this program.

For those individuals who are looking to pursue their NCCP Equestrian Instructor/Coach certification, they are encouraged to contact the AEF’s Coaching Coordinator at coaching@albertaequestrian.com or 1-877-463-6233 ext 3.

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AEF PROFILE

FIGHTING FOR THOSE WHO CAN’T SPEAK FOR THEMSELVES Understanding the many roles of the Alberta Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and the Equine Community.

B Y SU Z A N N E HA L E

As much as it takes a village to raise a child, similarly it takes a village to care for those who can’t speak for themselves.

The Alberta Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) is one cog in the network of gears that protect the well-being of the equine population. There to respond to calls of suspected unfair treatment of horses and other animals, the 10

ALBERTA BITS I SPRING 2020

Alberta SPCA also offers resources to horse families who find themselves in situations beyond their ability to cope.

Dan Kobe, Communications Manager with the Alberta SPCA notes that 11 Peace Officers work in a partnership with the Animal Protective Services department to enforce the organization’s primary role of animal protection. Responding

AEF PROFILE

“We encourage the humane treatment of all animals through enforcement of animal protection legislation and through education programs throughout Alberta.”

Alberta SPCA mandate

to around 2,400 complaints per year – the majority revolving around the welfare of horses and dogs – team members travel up to 675,000 kilometres yearly to do so. The costs incurred as a result are offset in part by a grant from the ministry of Agriculture and Forestry; as well Kobe notes, “A significant portion of our overall budget comes from our generous supporters

through donations, and gaming events such as lotteries.”

Incorporated as a non-profit in Alberta on September 10, 1959, the society’s mandate states: “We encourage the humane treatment of all animals through enforcement of animal protection legislation and through education programs throughout Alberta.” Instrumental in the creation of the Animal Protection Act in 1967, the society works closely with other agencies to ensure that the physical and psychological needs of animals in the care of humans are met. The basics of care due to all animals are outlined in the Animal Protection Act: “Animal Care Duties 2.1: A person who owns or is in charge of an animal (a) must ensure that the animal has adequate food and water, (b) must provide the animal with adequate care when the animal is wounded or ill, (c) must provide the animal with reasonable protection from injurious heat or cold, and (d) must provide the animal with adequate shelter, ventilation and space. “Our number one goal with every investigation,” Kobe says, “is to ensure an animal is not in distress and if it is, to take steps to eliminate distress.”

The Animal Protection team is well-equipped to address unique situations daily. “Most of our Peace Officers have a background in livestock – some have worked as farriers or on cattle ranches, others have an animal science background and have worked at veterinary clinics. One officer was a horse trainer before working at the Alberta SPCA, and still trains horses in his spare time.” Kobe also notes if knowledge outside the team’s area of expertise is needed, their network of experts is consulted for guidance.

Peace Officers respond to every complaint received when there are reasonable and probable grounds to believe an animal is in distress. “We must hear from a complainant who has seen the animal first-hand – our first goal is to work with the animal’s owner to improve conditions for that animal,” Kobe says. In situations where the owner is unwilling or unable to relieve the animal’s distress, the Alberta SPCA can use the provisions of the Animal Protection Act to take animals into custody to alleviate their distress. “We encourage the public to call whenever they have a concern,” says Kobe. “Often, people may not make a call because they mistakenly believe we’re already involved – for instance, we may have attended a property in the summer, provided information to the owner and closed the file because the animals weren’t in distress. Fast forward six months and the animals may be getting thin in the cold weather, but the public may believe we’re already involved since we were at the property in the summer,” Kobe says, going on to note that the Alberta SPCA does not have the legal right to continue monitoring animals once a file is closed. “We require a new complaint to give our Peace Officers reasonable and probable grounds to again go onto private property to check on the animals.”

Concerned parties can call the Animal Distress Line at 1-800-455-9003. “When a call is placed,” says Kobe, “we open up a file similar to a police investigation so we need timely, first-hand details.” A caller will likely be asked for the date and time of the incident, address and directions if it is a rural location, details of what the witness saw, photos if there was ALBERTA BITS I SPRING 2020

11

AEF PROFILE

Left: Valour, shortly after being seized by the Alberta SPCA in April 2018.

Above: Peace Officer Karen Stevenson, reunited with Valour in April 2019.

a chance to take any, a description of the animal’s owner, and vehicle details including license plate number, if the offence involved a vehicle. The more details that a caller can offer, the easier it will be for the Peace Officer to respond with assistance to a matter. “If you’re calling about a herd of animals, is our officer looking for 10 or 250 head? Details such as the animal’s body condition or its environment, including food, water and shelter availability are all important,” he adds. “Accurate information allows us to make decisions that take into account our available resources and the enormous distances we must travel,” Kobe notes, adding that if a situation is urgent such 12

ALBERTA BITS I SPRING 2020

as with a downer animal, it will be made a priority call and attended to immediately.

Horse care and welfare present unique challenges for the Alberta SPCA. “Legislation sets the minimum standards for animal care, but many members of the public have an expectation that horse owners will provide optimal care for their animals. Our Peace Officers work to create dialogue with owners to help them to understand what is necessary to have animals that can thrive beyond the minimum standards. The public may have different expectations for the level of care an animal receives, depending on the species.”

Another difficulty facing the Alberta SPCA is the increase in files with larger herds. “It can be challenging finding proper care that will allow conditions to improve, for larger numbers of horses.” Additionally, complainants are vocal if they feel that Peace Officers aren’t doing enough to help a horse they feel is being neglected. “Callers can be frustrated if horses they’ve called us about remain on a property, but they’re often not aware of the ongoing dialogue Peace Officers are having

with the owner.” Seizing horses is stressful for them, so often the best course of action is to improve the conditions on their property. Seizing any animal is always considered the last course of action to take.”

Investigating animal distress situations is just one aspect of the Alberta SPCA’s job – sometimes all the horse owners need is support and information. “We have many animal-related groups we can direct owners to if they need help with horses.

Many of the cases we deal with include the need for information on food or supplements for the horse’s diet. Overgrown hooves are another common complaint – for something like that, we can connect an owner with a farrier. Sometimes we will help an owner access a veterinarian; or we may be able to connect a horse owner who is looking to haul animals with appropriate transportation companies.”

“Our Peace Officers’ goal is to provide owners with information about the Animal Protection Act and other legislation, and the minimum standard of care for their animals,” he says.

“Ultimately, we want to be sure horse owners are equipped with information that allows them to make good decisions for their horses, even if the animals are not in distress.”

The Alberta SPCA also deals in the business of happy endings. “The story of Valour is worth talking about,” Kobe says of a situation appearing hopeless at the outset which culminated in a fairy tale ending. “Valour was found in a winter pasture with no access to food in April 2018 along with three other horses, with a body condition of one out of nine. There was concern he wouldn’t make it through the night, and when our team returned to transport Valour and the other horses to a veterinarian for care, Valour was so weak, he went down numerous times… but he also had a fighting spirit,” says Kobe with pride. Karen Stevenson, the Alberta SPCA Peace Officer who was the first to see Valour said, “The first time I saw him he walked up to me and put his head in my chest, and he sighed.” It took many months, but Valour regained his strength and was eventually gifted to an equine-facilitated healing ranch to continue his recovery, where he now joins other horses in healing sessions for human clients. It was a heartbreaking situation with an immensely gratifying outcome for all involved. “I feel I was the voice for these horses,” Stevenson says via video of the story, at https://www.albertaspca.org/valours-story/.

Stories such as Valour’s are the reason why those employed at the Alberta SPCA carry out their daunting tasks with dedication daily. “We couldn’t be in this field if we didn’t love what we do. I can guarantee you, every officer starting their day tries to make these stories happen,” Stevenson says. AB

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TO REPORT LIVESTOCK CARE CONCERNS CALL: 1-800-506-2273 PRODUCERS HELPING PRODUCERS

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ALERT assists before livestock are in distress.

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WHO DOES WHAT? ALERT Line 24/7 confidential livestock welfare call line 1-800-506-2273

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ANSWERS FROM PAGE 7: PARTS OF HORSE: 1. Muzzle

2. Poll 3. Crest 4. Shoulder 5. Withers 6. Back 7. Loin 8. Point of Hip 9. Croup 10. Tail 11. Hock 12. Cannon Bone 13. Fetlock 14. Pastern 15. Hoof 16. Coronet Band 17. Stifle 18. Barrel 19. Pastern 20. Knee 21. Jowl

CROSSWORD:

ACROSS 1. Gaits 5. Conformation 7. Jockey 8. Muzzle DOWN 1. Gymkhana 2. Nearside 3. Blaze 4. Frog 6. Foal ALBERTA BITS I SPRING 2020

13

HOW TO P LL A LOOSE SHOE

A bent or pulled shoe can be dangerous. If you don’t have quick access to your farrier, here’s how you can safely pull one on your own.

B Y J E N N W E B ST E R , W I T H FA R R I E R K I R K S HAW

In an ideal situation, you will always have access to your farrier in the event your horse pulls a shoe unexpectedly. If not however, it’s wise to possess the tools and knowledge it takes to pull a shoe. Shoes left bent or twisted, or sharp nails or clips protruding outward, can be dangerous. Sometimes, the best option is to pull the shoe yourself and wait until your farrier can come and assist.

14

ALBERTA BITS I SPRING 2020

Two basic farrier tools all horse owners should own are: • A rasp.

• A shoe puller.

If you’re really handy with farrier tools, you might also consider owning a clinch cutter, hoof knife and crease nail pullers.

If your horse happens to pull a shoe, the key is to remove it without causing any further

damage to your horse’s hoof.

When farriers tack shoes on, nails are hammered in at specific angles of the hoof wall to hold the shoe on and then the end of the nail is bent over and rasped off, so they are smooth. Therefore in reverse, the ends of those nails need to be bent upwards again or clinched off completely so they do no damage to the hoof wall when the shoe is removed.

STEP ONE

“Basically, there are two ways to cut the clinches,” says farrier Kirk Shaw of Calgary, AB. Shaw has over 20 years of farrier experience, with all different types of horses and disciplines.

“You can rasp them off or you use your clinch cutter.”

With a rasp, you would pick the horses’ foot up, holding it properly, and grind the rasp back and forth against the clinched nail on top of the hoof wall, until the nail is smooth enough to release the shoe.

With a clinch cutter, you would place this tool underneath the clinch, then use a hammer against it to pop the clinch.

With either a rasp or a clinch cutter, this step must be done to each of the nails in the shoe in order for the shoe to be removed.

STEP TWO

If you own a crease nail puller, this tool is used only on horseshoes that have creases in them. A crease nail puller doesn’t work on shoes such as sliding plates, because they are completely smooth with no ridges.

A crease nail puller is handy for shoes with ridges or grooves because they reach inside these creases to pull the nail out.

Below – you can also use your shoe puller to remove the shoe. Place the sharp edges of the shoe puller underneath the shoe (in between the shoe and the hoof).

“Start at the heel, pull your shoe pullers forward and in – and slowly work your way all around the hoof. Then pull forward to pull the whole shoe off,” Shaw explains.

If you were able to loosen all the nails in step one, the shoe should now come off easily.

The average horse owner should always own a rasp, but if shoe pullers aren’t in your tack room, pliers may also be helpful with a loose shoe.

ALBERTA BITS I SPRING 2020

15

HORSE KEEPING

Fermented foods are being emphasized by registered dieticians as beneficial. So, how do we share these benefits with our horses without inviting them to eat Kombucha, yogurt, avocados, sauerkraut, and pickles?

PROMOTING EQUINE DIGESTIVE HEALTH Dieticians boast healthful benefits, but what about your horse?

SU B M I T T E D B Y P U R I NA C A NA D A

The nutrition industry is beginning to understand what role fermentation, gut bacteria and gut microbiome play in human and animal health. Fermented foods are gaining attention in the human nutrition space, but what does that mean for our equine companions? Increasing amounts of research studies are suggesting fermented foods have powerful health benefits, ranging from promoting gut health, controlling inflammation, and providing other healthful experiences. “Fermented foods” are being emphasized by registered dieticians as beneficial. So, how do we share these benefits with our horses without inviting them to eat Kombucha, yogurt, avocados, sauerkraut, and pickles?

A balance of good quality forage as the base of the horse’s diet and a feed concentrate that includes fermentation metabolites is key to maintaining healthy gut flora and a strong immune sys16

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tem. Guest writer Christine W. of Diamond V shares some interesting science behind fermentation metabolites. “Fermentation metabolites produced by Diamond V are unique, bioactive compounds that work naturally with the biology of the horse to strengthen and empower the immune system, support digestive tissue integrity, and promote a healthy microbial community.

Hundreds of these compounds are produced from a proprietary anaerobic fermentation process of Saccharomyces cerevisiae and work synergistically inside the animal to help them perform to their full genetic potential. These compounds help the horse’s immune and digestive systems function normally in face of the many stressors and challenges, specifically hauling, training, breeding, herd dynamics, and environmental factors.”

In other words, this specific species of yeast produces several

products or compounds that are beneficial to the microbiome in the horse’s hind-gut.

“When the horse’s gut is working optimally, everything from digestive to immune function is set up to be resilient in the face of stressors and challenges that might otherwise compromise animal health and performance,” she says.

Fermentation metabolites benefit your horse’s digestive tract by supporting a healthy gastrointestinal microbiome. The millions of little bacteria that live in the digestive tract ferment complex carbohydrates, resulting in volatile fatty acid production.

These acids impact digestion, absorption and overall gut health. On a feed label, you might see yeast culture listed (or S. cerevisiae extract). When fermented by the horse’s microbiome, these specific S. cerevisiae yeast culture metabolites have been shown to support tissue strength and integrity, to contribute to a stable hind-gut pH and to support a healthy gut microbial community, as well as a balanced immune response when challenged by stressors.

So why is improved tissue strength, integrity, and digestive health important to horses?

Research has shown that horses with a strong digestive tract are better able to absorb nutrients from the foods they eat and harmful substances are less likely to permeate the gastrointestinal cellular wall.

Horses need to have a strong gut to absorb amino acids, fats, vitamins, minerals and other nutrients, and to prevent unhealthy bacteria or harmful substances from getting into circulation and causing problems. By absorbing the good nutrients and getting rid of the potentially harmful substances, horses are more likely to perform to their full potential. Their immune and digestive systems are supported to handle the challenges that come with hauling, training, and just being a horse in changing environments.

Alberta’s extreme weather changes can be stressful on your horse. To help your horse manage rising environmental changes and other stresses that can affect immunity and digestion, Purina recommends feeding Horse-Shield, a new supplement that is enriched with fermented metabolites, yeast culture and vitamins.

Horse-Shield is an immunity, vitality and digestibility supplement for horses. It also supports and improves: · Immune potential. · Digestion efficiency. · Hindgut microbiome and healthy digestion. · Respiratory capacity. · Decreased lactate production. · Supports cognitive and behavioral functions. · Cartilage and joint health. · Red blood cell production. · Fertility. · Performance.

Horse-Shield supplement is available in Alberta at your local Purina retailer. Visit equipurina.ca to learn more about HorseShield. * This article was written with collaborative authors Heather MacInnis, Keri Weir, Heidi A., Emily L., and Christine W.

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BREED PROFILE

ANDALUSIANS The horse of kings.

B Y PI PE R W H E L A N

Favoured by royalty and revered for its elegance and athleticism, the Andalusian has always been a showstopping horse. This breed was once considered the ideal mount for carrying warriors into battle, and today you’ll find the Andalusian in some of the most prestigious competition rings in the world, as well as winning new fans as a kind, attentive family horse.

Standing 15.2 to 16.2 hands high on average, the Andalusian is a strong, well-built horse with considerable style.

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With large eyes, a long neck, thick mane and low-set tail, this breed is meant to be admired. Today, around 80 percent of Andalusians are either white or gray, and a few animals will be bay, dun, black or palomino. The breed is known for its agility, intelligence, natural collection and responsive nature.

Named for the Spanish province of Andalusia, where the breed originated, the Andalusian is a descendent of the ancient Iberian horses of modernday Spain and Portugal. In fact, cave

paintings in Spain’s Iberian Peninsula that date back to 20,000 to 30,000 BC depict horses thought to be the earliest ancestors of the Andalusian.

Iberian horses were highly sought after by the Ancient Greeks and Romans, with references to these exceptional war horses appearing in Homer’s epic The Iliad, and noteworthy military leaders choosing to provide their cavalry with Iberians for battle.

Later on, the Spanish monarchy and government used the horses as a

BREED PROFILE

Opposite page: Once the top choice for war horses and still used in the bull fighting rings of Spain, the Andalusian is also an ideal family horse for its kind temperament. Right: While most modern Andalusians are gray or white, you’ll see some with black, dun or bay coats.

diplomatic tool, giving Iberian horses to various European kings. Because so many monarchs owned these beautiful horses, the Iberian was known as “the royal horse of Europe.”

In the 16th century, Philip II of Spain gave imperial orders at Cordoba’s Royal Stables that led to the Andalusian’s development into a dressage horse of the highest quality. “Grand riding academies were formed in countries all across Europe including Austria, France, Italy and Germany. It was in these academies where dressage and high school riding began and flourished,” as stated on the International Museum of the Horse’s website. Here, the Andalusian flourished as the preferred breed of riders at these top-level schools.

As the Andalusian was imported throughout the world in centuries past, it has influenced several other breeds, including the Criollo, Hanoverian, Lipizzan, Paso Fino and Peruvian, among others. More recently, an official distinction was made between the Andalusian and the Lusitano, the latter being named after the ancient Roman name for its traditional home of Portugal. Today, the Andalusian is referred to as Pura Raza Espanola, or Pure Spanish Horse (PRE) in Spain, where its own studbook is kept separate from that of the Lusitano horse.

A Winning Choice, No Matter the Discipline

The Andalusian continues to thrill riders and breeders with the traits that made it so admired for centuries.

According to the International Museum of the Horse, “wherever the Andalusian is found and whatever the Andalusian ALBERTA BITS I SPRING 2020

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BREED PROFILE

does, it displays the proud, docile temperament for which it has been prized for millennia.”

You’ll see Andalusians in Grand Prix jumping competitions and Olympiclevel dressage. In Spain and Portugal, the Andalusian is still used in the ring during bull fights, and is also a favourite for working cattle, with their natural cow sense and agility. In North America, Andalusians compete in a variety of disciplines, including working equitation, cutting and driving. This kind, obedient breed also makes an ideal family horse.

Each year, the World Andalusian Cup is held in Las Vegas, drawing the top horses and riders in the world. The 2020 edition will be taking place in August.

Disciplines include dressage and working equitation, among others, and horses in a range of classes can compete for the Supreme Champion title.

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Based in the United States, the International Andalusian & Lusitano Horse Association (IALHA) is the largest association for the breed in the world. The IALHA runs a DNA-verified registry for purebred and halfblood Andalusians, which is both the largest and oldest herdbook of Andalusians in the world. Horses with lineage that is directly traced back to Spain and Portugal’s studbooks may be registered as purebred. There are currently around 28,000 horses registered with the IALHA, 18,000 of which are registered purebreds, and membership sits at around 1,600.

The IALHA’s promotional activities include hosting clinics and seminars across the U.S., sanctioning Andalusian and Lusitano classes at U.S. Equine Federation shows and publishing its official magazine, The Iberian Horse. It also has a lifetime merit award program

for horses during their competition careers.

More regionally, the Pacific Association of the Andalusian and Lusitano Horse (PAALH) functions to promote the breed and the disciplines traditionally associated with the Andalusian’s history. The association hosts the annual Canadian National Andalusian Show, which will be held in Chilliwack, B.C., this July.

Another organization dedicated to the breed is the Canadian Society for the Andalusian Horse, which functions to facilitate the adoption and re-homing of neglected and unwanted Andalusian horses and promote the historical and cultural significance of this breed. The society provides horse owners with education to prevent abuse and neglect of Andalusians, as well as information on proper care and training of the breed.

BREED PROFILE

A Horse Anybody Would Enjoy

The Andalusian breed was a natural fit for La Conquista Ranches in the municipal district of Foothills, Alberta.

Originally from Mexico, Ana Marroquin and Luis Burciaga were drawn to this breed that is very popular in their home country. In addition to breeding and exhibiting Black and Red Angus and Maine-Anjou cattle, as well as Old English Sheepdogs, the two veterinarians were interested in establishing their own Andalusian breeding program in Canada.

“We have traveled Spain searching for the best bloodlines available, and through that we have been fortunate to find the horses we believe are a great representation of the breed in Canada and also get to know great breeders that we have become very good friends with,” said Burciaga.

In the summer of 2015, Marroquin and Burciaga imported their first set

of mares and a stallion. They currently have six mares in Canada imported from Spain. “Our foundation has been built with Yeguada Vilaire, Las Arenas and Bohorquez. Currently we have a mare and a filly bred by us from Ules Vdos, “Campeon de Funcionalidad” SICAB 2016 (2016 Functionality Champion at the International PRE Horse Fair), and another one by Algabeño, ranked fifth out of 100 better stallions in Spain,” said Burciaga.

“We also have five mares with fillies born in 2020 from the record-breaking stallion Atrevido Mango, in addition to our stallion Oxido de Vilaire, fifth in SICAB 2017 with a tremendous season, winning Best in Class in movements and conformation in Spain.”

The family competes in dressage and working equitation, as well as showing in PRE conformation shows. “When we started thinking about breeding Pura Raza Española, we were looking for a family hobby, a horse that would

Opposite page: With agility, intelligence and elegance, the Andalusian won praise in the royal courts and riding academies of Europe centuries ago. Above: The Andalusian excels in a variety of disciplines, from dressage to working equitation.

always be willing to please and have a temperament suitable for all types of riders and enthusiasts,” said Burciaga.

He refers to the breed as “a horse that anybody would enjoy riding and being around, also great to take you further in the sport we love, nice to look at— because of all those attributes, the breed is world renowned as ‘the horse of kings.’”

Marroquin and Burciaga are enthusiastic about these incredible horses and welcome those who are interested in learning more about the breed to get in touch. “Currently, we are the only breeding program in Alberta registered under the Spanish Studbook (ANCCE). We are passionate about genetics and breeding, having horses for every rider, no matter what level or discipline they are involved. Horses that they can enjoy having as part of their teams and families is our commitment.” AB ALBERTA BITS I SPRING 2020

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FORT MCMURRAY REBOUND

How residents who survived the fires of 2016 have bounced back.

B Y SU Z A N N E HA L E

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On May 1, 2016, residents of Fort McMurray closely monitored a fresh wildfire as it advanced alarmingly fast.

Born during a brutal combination of unusually hot temperatures, high winds and low humidity, residents anticipated the worst while praying for the best.

Regrettably, residents were correct in their anticipation: under a mandatory evacuation 88,000 were required to leave their homes, properties and businesses to preserve their own lives, and that of their pets. Fleeing on foot proved a much more complex venture for those with four-legged family members – another layer of effort was required to calm innate fears and coax trust from their hysterical horses and other animals.

Stories detailing the calamity faced by residents through the gruelling experience and its aftermath abound, also brought tales detailing the kindness of strangers, the bonding over shared experiences, and the generosity of businesses.

At the onset of the wildfire, incredulity was at the forefront of emotions not only for those involved, but also for those witnessing the spiralling disaster via news feed. The fire came at a particularly unfortunate time for the heavily oiland-gas dependent area, which at 8.1% unemployment was only months away from a ten-year provincial high of 9.1%.

Following the fire’s final extinguishing, disbelief grew as the country witnessed the scale of destruction left in its wake.

However, as it tends to do, time began to work its magic, and the painstaking process of rebuilding – for many, right from square one – was underway. Now, nearly four years after the event that was catastrophic for the area, victims can say with certainty that their rebound is well on its way, though physical and emotional scars may remain.

Doug Webb, born and raised in Fort McMurray, wife Karina and their 18-year-old son Declan experienced their own brand of loss on their sixThis page: The Webb horses, back at home.

Opposite page clokwise: “We were so fortunate – the horses had to have travelled over burning ground at some point, but they were just mildly singed,” says Karina Webb. Here, one of them is seen at home, after the rebuild. The remains of a burnt quad belonging to the Webb family. The Webb property after their rebuild. “We left one burnt post in, just because!” says Karina Webb.

acre parcel of land where they keep their two horses, a mare and a gelding named Flicka and Skip. “We lost a lot on our property – nearly all of our fencing, our garage and everything in it including a quad, tools, ladders and other equipment; our cabin and round bales…” Karina is quiet as she reminisces over the events of 2016. “The loss of the garage really hurts us. Even now, we will go to use a tool and remember, ‘Oh right – that was in the garage…’”

The kindness of strangers was of utmost help to the Webb family who, like so many in their company, relied on others to secure the safety of their livestock.

“The fencing was burnt down, but Flicka and Skip remained in the middle of the pasture. Someone found them, and led them down the five kilometre lane to safety,” she shared, at which point the Webbs decided to have the horses let loose, knowing they wouldn’t head in the direction of danger, but would return to what they knew. As the Webbs expected,

Flicka and Skip waited in the pasture for their owners to collect them. “We were so fortunate – the horses had to have travelled over burning ground at some point, but they were just mildly singed.

Likely they had some smoke inhalation,” she says, noting that in spite of this there were no lasting ill effects to either of the horses.

Among the various stressors experienced through the event, Karina says that the worst part was not knowing if the horses were okay. “We elected to travel north, but not evacuate – we’ve evacuated the horses twice before, and we really didn’t think this was going to come to anything,” she says. “We expected to be returning very soon, but what we didn’t know was that law enforcement would not allow anyone back that direction once things took a turn for the worse, so we couldn’t collect our horses. We faced enormous stress, not knowing whether they were okay or not.” From their location 60 kilometres from the fire, the

Webbs couldn’t see the smoke, and had no idea of the gravity of the event to their south, which was both a blessing and a curse while they awaited updates, trying to decode which news was accurate and which was a result of overblown rumors.

In addition to the fear over whether their two horses would come through the event unscathed, the Webbs found themselves longing for the company of the very beings they rely on to provide comfort in times of distress. “They’re a big part of how we manage stress in our lives – and we couldn’t get to them for two days during an extremely traumatic time,” shares Karina.

“We were evacuated to the Shell camp, which was absolutely marvelous,” Karina says, “and very busy. Besides the areas where the people stayed, there was an area with all kinds of animals – dogs, cats, parrots – the noise was incredible!”

Once the immediacy of the event had passed and residents began the work of achieving a new normal, the rebuilding ALBERTA BITS I SPRING 2020

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No structure was left after the garage burned.

process continued to tax their alreadyburdened states of mind. “Our horses were boarded for the ensuing months in various places – we’re extremely grateful for the caretaking of them by our friends,” Karina says. “The donations of hay were tremendous; access to hay was a really big problem at the outset.” One of the Webbs’ top priorities was bringing their horses closer to their home as soon as possible, but until the fence was rebuilt it wasn’t possible. Over the course of months, at the end of their workday and whenever time permitted, the Webbs worked on rebuilding their lost fence enclosure, but it was a slow process. “We didn’t take the horses back until October,” she says.

Looking back on the months following the disaster, Karina recalls two emotions: stress and gratitude. “It was such a stressful experience,” she says. “But we were so grateful no one was hurt in the fires. People opened their homes, their properties; they donated so much horse equipment – halters, hay…We were so appreciative.”

The Webbs continue to look forward nearly four years after the event. “The fence was rebuilt within months after the fires, but we won’t rebuild the cabin – we didn’t use it much; in a way, it was a favor to us that it burnt down. We still miss the garage, which we’ll rebuild this summer.”

The Webbs received insurance for some of what they lost, but of necessity, 24

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some of those funds were redirected in more pressing directions. “It has been a slow, hard recovery,” Karina says, “but we’re pretty resilient people. Things have been mostly back to normal for a couple years now for our horses, and for our family,” says Karina.

Naturally an event such as this comes with a multitude of lessons for those involved. “I took part in a meeting with the RCMP and other emergency services about what can be done better and they’re making strides – for instance, the town has purchased a trailer to help people transport large animals in the case of an evacuation order,” she says, adding that officials have an increased awareness of needs that could arise in similar situations in the future. “Another suggestion that arose is the necessity of one point of contact with the RCMP – residents need to have one number, a line, an individual they can call to get information, to get help and to stay informed of what’s happening.”

For the Webbs as well, there is a new level of awareness over their previous outlook. “Nothing came of it the other times we had to evacuate the horses,” Karina says, “but now, you pay more attention if you hear of a fire. You see smoke, and it makes you wonder...

You think of spring, and you’re saying to yourself, ‘What will spring bring?

Will it be too dry?’ You are much more conscious of conditions,” she says.

“We’ll definitely be more pro-active going forward,” she adds. “We did have a contingency plan, but it didn’t really work.” Karina trails off, perhaps contemplating how things could have been done differently. While the Webbs now know that their horses would never be at risk of being lost to fire in the event of a future wildfire due to the layout and surroundings of the pasture, they have a more fine-tuned plan in place. “We have a different vigilance about planning – it’s not just practicality, it’s fear-based. It’s not a pleasant awareness,” she says.

Since the beginning of Canada’s costliest disaster, there’s been a rebound on many fronts – that of emergency services, the city of Fort McMurray itself and for many families whose experiences mirror that of the Webbs. The rebuilding of homes is nearly complete, Alberta’s unemployment rate is somewhat less troubling and the Webbs join many other families who are choosing to look forward, not back. “We still feel so grateful for where we are. I don’t know if it’s a feeling of relief necessarily … I’d say it’s a feeling of cautious relief.” The Webbs are counting their blessings as their family keeps moving on with their horses back home, where they should be.

“They’re part of our family,” says Karina of Flicka and Skip. “They’re magnificent – lots of hard work, but worth it. We love them to pieces, and we wouldn’t trade this life for the world.” AB

TRAINER’S CORNER

MAKING THE MATCH

Mike and Lee McLean are well known for their talented ponies. Both growing up riding and showing their families’ Welsh ponies, they’ve seen many things when it comes to pairing up kids with ponies. Here’s some of their best advice for making a good match.

B Y J E N N W E B ST E R , PH OT O S B Y T W I ST E D T R E E PH OT O G R A PH Y

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TRAINER’S CORNER Pairing kids with ponies is not an easy task. If done properly, a child may be inspired to ride for life. If done poorly, the child will forever reach for skis or a bike instead. Mike and Lee McLean both have years of experience as parents of riders, 4H leaders and instructors. Lee is best-known for her storytelling on her Facebook page, Keystone Equine, and for her good ponies. Lee and Mike live in the rolling hills of Southwestern Alberta. In this interview, the McLeans offer their best advice for making the most of a pony / child matchup.

AB What is your pairing process? When a parent calls you and wants to buy a pony for their child, how do you begin?

MM & LM The pairing process is half fact, half intuition. We start by asking the family’s history and experience in the horse industry. Beginners need the help of an experienced horse person that will not be swayed by registration papers or a pretty face. We also ask how often they ride, what part of the horse world they’re most interested in and, this is a hard one – does the child really want to ride? Or is it something the parent wants to encourage? Seldom is the child quite as keen to ride as the parent thinks he or she is!

AB Does size matter in ponies?

MM & LM Size matters as the pony needs to be big enough to carry an adult for regular tune-ups. Few ponies, or horses for that matter, will continue to work at a desired level without some input in their training, yet we expect it of ponies all the time. All things being equal, size is the least relevant of our concerns. As a general guideline, a child will look good on a pony whose height in hands equals the age of the child. For example, a 12-year-old on a 12:0 hand pony still works.

In our area, the under 12:2’s can be a hard sell because we just don’t have the huge competitive small pony hunter scene that exists along the US East Coast. The over 14:0’s can also be tough because when we get into this size in cow country, a child can choose from a never-ending supply of great, small, professionallytrained working cow horses as mentors, many of which turn out to have an excellent jump. For English disciplines, however, large pony breeds tend to excel with their natural sport horse movement and athleticism.

We consider ‘ponies’ to be traditionally any equine under 14:2.

Remember, that for a small child, even a 12:2 pony is massive.

Our own personal preference for performance ponies that won’t quickly be outgrown are those around 13:2. This is a truly fabulous size.

That said, size is hugely secondary to temperament and training! We don’t usually advise parents to put their children on minis, as we see very few of them with walk-trot-canter skills on correct aids. A beloved pet to groom and lead around is one thing, but a rideable pony for lessons, showing and time on the trails, is quite another.

While we like and admire good ponies, if there isn’t one to be found that is properly schooled with neck-reining and a lot of knowledgeable mileage on the odometer, we would rather choose to put children on suitable horses!

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AB What pony breed do you prefer?

MM & LM Mike and I both have lifelong love affairs with purebred Welsh Ponies. They’re beautiful little horses with exquisite movement and huge athleticism. We have worked with other types of ponies: Pony of the Americas (POAs), British native breeds, Welsh crossed with Arabs, Quarter Horses and Thoroughbreds, but we realize there are easier breeds of ponies.

Welsh and Hackneys are not always easily trained, unless you have a lot of time and experience to put into them! They’re sensitive, quick and often a bit unforgiving, depending upon the bloodlines you have chosen. The best riding ponies also have a flatter, hunter type movement for ease of sitting. We’re fortunate though, as Alberta has long had some of the best-bred Welsh ponies in the world.

For the average child, a grade or crossbred pony can be a little less demanding in its training. However, Shetlands “without baggage” and great training will be an excellent, surefooted and trustworthy animal. Unfortunately, Shetlands have been unfairly maligned over the years, so seldom have they been well trained and respectfully handled.

The problem with many of the small ponies is that no one has taken the time to really get them broke. Would you put your child into an elevator, alone, with a hugely strong, strange and unreliable man? Of course not! Yet people do it all the time with ponies, especially minis, because they’re “little.”

AB

What abilities does a potential owner need to have before you will consider selling them a prospect?

MM & LM We strongly suggest that any families who are new

to ponies, find a trusted coach or trainer. This person will be on hand to see that the match really works. Most of our customers are either repeat customers who have bought ponies from us before and are upgrading to the sportier models, or are coming here via word of mouth. We are unusual in the business in that we back all our sales up with a one-year guarantee but we never enjoy taking a pony back because it didn’t work out. It’s good for our business, perhaps, but it’s not good for the pony and it’s not good for the child!

The willingness to keep an animal schooled is hugely important. Caution must be used if you’re looking to buy a harness or ride-and-drive pony because despite popular thinking, a wreck under saddle is nothing compared to what can happen in a cart!

Any potential owner has to be in a position of making a pony be the centre of their family life. It’s what good ponies are used to and they don’t transition very well to being ridden once or twice a month. With ponies, you have to be involved in their lives, for many of them are at risk to founder. We always say that “the smaller the horse, the bigger your responsibility” when it comes to turn-out time!

AB What is the average age at which you sell your ponies?

MM & LM We specialize in the teenage pony for children.

This is a perfect age for a child who wants to show, ranch or jump. A pony that’s 18 or 20 (and more) still has great energy to

TRAINER’S CORNER

The willingness to keep an animal schooled is hugely important in the longevity of a child / pony relationship.

offer, provided he’s been in a knowledgeable, loving home. We will only sell our younger ponies, under age six or so, to adults who are looking for prospects that have been started and they’ll continue on with them.

AB How can a buyer ensure they keep the pony trained after purchasing?

MM & LM The pony needs to be needed and used if they

are to maintain their training. I like the ponies to go to a home where our original training – a broke pony that can go to town and is safe to ride out in the open – is just the beginning. We’ve had ponies that were doing a great job here at home, and now they are competing internationally in combined driving competitions and upper-level dressage with their new owners. That thrills us, knowing that we were just one little step along their journeys.

This is the thing that surprises people most about good quality ponies; they’re loaded with try and talent. Lead changes can be taught in a couple of afternoons! We recommend that the new owners just ride their ponies – a lot. We also try and set buyers up with the right pony to go in their chosen discipline.

Of course, the very best ponies are the rare ones who have started a long line of achieving riders to their credit. For young children, we want proven performance over those with ‘prospects’.

AB Any particular pony care tips you’d like to share with us?

MM & LM Care of a pony is simple common sense. If you’re

not well-equipped enough to stay one step ahead of them, you’ll run into some trouble. They’re like mules that way, extremely good on their feet and are not prepared to flounder through anything tricky if they know of a way around it. This is why we’ve always loved to have our kids on good ponies; we’ve rarely seen

one fall down. If the child falls, as they eventually will, it’s much less frightening if it’s from the same height as a picnic table!

We recommend finding good equipment from experienced pony people. Too often, ponies are expected to do their jobs in bridles, bits and saddles that are poorly made, or ill-fitting. We all need to be comfortable if we are to work happily.

The big thing with ponies is this: they’re great in the winter, they’re so easy. It’s the other eight months you need to worry about. If the grass is green, the ponies can’t be on it for long! We don’t dry-lot our ponies, as everyone needs nutrients from real food and the mental benefit that comes from hunting and grazing, from chewing. A dry-lotted pony tends to be ‘hangry’ and nippy. From April to October, our ponies have a nice, lean little pasture to browse in. A lot of the time, they just wander around our lawn for an hour or so daily, or picket out in the yard.

This is a win-win because then they’re close and handy to jingle horses in, take kids to the creek or be otherwise useful.

You’ve got to make the ponies as safe and convenient as grabbing a bicycle, if you want your children to want to ride!

AB What is the price range for ponies? Is there an average?

MM & LM Expect to pay as much for a talented, beautiful, well-broke pony as you would for a talented, beautiful, wellbroke horse! People will put $75,000 into the truck, $40,000 into the Living Quarters trailer – then are hesistant at shelling out more than $1,500 for the pony! The bottom line? It really doesn’t matter whether you put your child on a horse or a pony, but ask yourself this: How much is your child’s safety really worth?

Also, we’re noticing that by far, the largest market for good ponies is with smaller adults! We can ride a high-achieving, really athletic large pony with more bang for the buck than the same budget for a similar horse. A nice, deep-bodied 14:2 pony will ‘take up as much leg’ and outperform a 16:0 hander. AB ALBERTA BITS I SPRING 2020

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ASK ABOUT INSURANCE

THE STRENGTH OF COMMUNITY

It is worth repeating that we are grateful and privileged to work with the Alberta Equestrian Federation and its thousands of members.

One of our guiding principals at CapriCMW is that committed service to our client community comes first – above all else.

It may interest you that each year, our organization undertakes a review of key relationships with suppliers of coverage and our clients, so that we can continue to innovate, respond to an ever-changing landscape and do our best to find ways to continually improve.

In our most recent review, various elements of the AEF insurance program, which are integral to your membership, were scrutinized. What we wanted to know specifically was if the insurance coverages presented still made sense, and still provided the value expected by everyone involved.

In the end, the program is doing a great job of protecting the interests of the members – notably the two key products ($5,000,000 Liability Insurance and $30,000 AD&D Coverage) included in your membership. Our research clearly shows that these elements are more important today than ever before.

In addition to these inclusions, we have worked hard to design bespoke optional insurance offerings that are only available to members: 1) Enhanced Accident Insurance for you the member.

2) Weekly Accident Indemnity Coverage (income replacement).

3) Coverage for your tack and equipment.

4) Emergency Surgery and Life Insurance coverage for your horse (an excellent product).

The horse community in Alberta is changing- demographics 28

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of an aging population and economic realities mean that some members are not competing in their discipline of choice as often as they once were, or even in the saddle as often as they used to be. Regardless of that change in activity, the realities of risk do not go away. A horse at home is still a horse that can do damage to property and cause injury under certain circumstances. The insurance program designed and managed

by AEF and CapriCMW hits way above its weight – everyday – to cover YOU the MEMBER – 24 hours a day, seven days a week, anywhere in the world.

Horses will always be a part of life in Alberta, and that means that there will always be a reason to be a part of the AEF community.

We hope that you and your family have a safe and happy 2020. If you have any questions at all about the insurance associated with your life as a horse enthusiast, our team is here to help… call us anytime.

“Insurance for horses and their people – it’s what we do!” AB

Cheers to partnerships that work!

Michael (Mike) King, CAIB, R.I.B.

Mike King is a partner at CapriCMW Insurance and the program lead for the PTSO programs across Canada. For more information, please call the Agri department at CapriCMW Insurance, 1-800-670-1877 or agri@capricmw.ca

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1.800.236.6438 www.printwest.com • pw1@printwest.com

ALBERTA BITS I SPRING 2020

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MEMBER ORGANIZ ATIONS AS OF FEB.20, 2020 T O F I N D O U R M O R E A B O U T O N E O F T H E S E C L U B S , O R T O J O I N O N E , P L E A S E C O N TA C T T H E M D I R E C T LY 4:13 Therapeutic Riding Association.................................................413therapeuticriding.com Alberta Carriage Driving Association (ACDA).......................................... albertadriving-acda.ca Alberta Central Region Pony Club.......................................................... canadianponyclub.org Alberta Donkey and Mule Club..................................................... albertadonkeyandmule.com Alberta Dressage Association........................................ adawebmaster@albertadressage.com Alberta Equestrian Vaulting Association.................albertaequestrianvaultingassoc@gmail.com Alberta Friesian Horse Association................................................................................ afha.ca Alberta Gypsy Vanner Horse Club . ...............................................albertagypsyhorseshow.org Alberta Horse Trials Association............................................................. albertahorsetrials.com Alberta Mounted Shooters Association..........................................albertamountedshooters.ca Alberta South Region Pony Club......................................canadianponyclub.org/AlbertaSouth Alberta Team Sorting Association...................................... albertateamsortingassociation.com Alberta Trail Riding Association......................................................................................atra.ca Alberta Walking Horse Association............................................................................ .awha.ca Alix Agricultural Society......................................................................alixagsociety.weebly.com American Saddlebred Horse Association of Alberta................ www.saddlebredsofalberta.com Bear Valley Rescue Society............................................................................. bearvalleyab.org Black Diamond Polo Club.................................................................... blackdiamondpolo.com Border Cowboy Mounted Shooters Association .......... bordercowboysmountedshooters.com Bow Valley Riding Association....................................................................bvra14@gmail.com Calgary and Area Alberta Dressage Association.....................................................ca-ada.com Calgary Regional Appaloosa Club (1997)........................................... calgaryappaloosaclub.ca Calgary Regional Trail Riders........................................................calgaryregionaltrailriders.com Calgary Western Riders.................................................... facebook.com/calgarywesternriders Canadian Horse Breeders Association Rocky Mountain District... canadianhorsebreeders.com Canadian Registry of the Tennessee Walking Horse.................................................... crtwh.ca Canadian Therapeutic Riding Association.................................................................. cantra.ca Chinook Carriage Driving Club..................................... chinookcarriagedrivingclub@gmail.com Chinook Country/Alberta Dressage Association.......................................albertadressage.com Cleardale Riders Club.............................................................. sandyrichardson@abnorth.com Clearwater Horse Club................................................................ cwhctreasurer@outlook.com Cochrane Horse Trials .........................................................................................................

Cottonwood Corral Association................................cottonwoodcorralassociation@gmail.com Coulee Winds Saddle Club..................................................................... kheapy@outlook.com Davisburg Pony Club........................canadianponyclub.org/AlbertaSouth/branches/davisburg DeWinton Pony Club................................................................inhandequinetherapy@me.com Diamond Willow Vaulting Club..................................................vaultingchick101@hotmail.com Endurance Riders of Alberta...................................................... enduranceridersofalberta.com Evergreen Park (Grande Prairie Agricultural & Exhibition Society)...................evergreenpark.ca Extreme Cowboy Alberta Association ...............................................extremecowboyracing.ca Fairview Sport Horse Society..........................................fairviewsporthorsesociety.weebly.com Family Fun Rodeo Series.......................................................familyfunrodeoseries.weebly.com Fort Calgary Wheel & Runner Association . ..........................................................................

Friends of the Eastern Slopes.................................................................................... foesa.org Fun Country Riding Club of Strathmore...................................................funcountryriders.com Great Divide Trail Association..................................................................... greatdividetrail.com Happy Valley Ag and Recreation Club......................................happyvalleyagrec@outlook.com Hastings Lake Pleasure Horse Association.............. hastingslakepleasurehorseassociation.org High Country Carriage Driving Club........................................................................... hccdc.ca Hoofbeats for Hope Equine Team Society............................ hoofbeatsequineteam@gmail.com Journeys Therapeutic Riding Society.............................................................................. jtrs.ca Jump Alberta Society.................................................................................... jumpalberta.com Lacombe Light Horse Association............................................................................................

Little Bits Therapeutic Riding Association ............................................................... littlebits.ca Meadow Creek Vaulting Club...................................................................................... mcvc.ca Millarville Musical Ride........................................................................... dwbuckland@aol.com Mount View Special Riding Association.................................................. mountviewriding.com Opening Gaits Therapeutic Riding Society of Calgary...................................... openinggaits.ca Over the Hills Trail Riders............................................................................fjhorses@syban.net Peace Area Riding For The Disabled Society.............................................................. pards.ca Peace Draft Horse Club........................................................... www.peacedrafthorseclub.com Peace Region Alberta Dressage Association........................ peaceregiondressage@gmail.com Performance Standardbreds Association..................................................p-standardbreds.org Polocrosse Calgary.................................................................................lplant@telusplanet.net Ponoka Riding & Roping Association..............................................................rmvold@aol.com Prentice Creek Equestrian Centre............................................................ ridepcec@gmail.com Ranahan Polocrosse Club..................................................................... ranahanpolocrosse.ca Ridgeview Riding Club............................................................. ridgeviewridingclub@gmail.com Rimbey Sleigh, Wagon & Saddle Club............................................rimbeyswsclub@gmail.com Rundle Riders Therapeutic Riding Association............................................... rundleriders.com Saddle Seat Canada............................................................................ saddleseatcanada.com Shortgrass Riding Club.......................................................................... lwaynemu@eidnet.org South Country Team Penning Association.................................................................. sctpa.ca South Peace Horse Show Association............................................... southpeacehorseclub.ca Southern Alberta Trail Riders Association..................................................................... satra.ca Springbank Equestrian Society................................................ springbankpark.com/index.php

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Springbank Pony Club.................. canadianponyclub.org/AlbertaSouth/branches/springbank Spruce View Gymkhana Club....................................................dwedmondson4@gmail.com Stone Bridge Carriage Driving Club...................................stonebridgecarriagedrivingclub.ca Strathcona All-Breed Horse Association...................................................... sahaalberta.com Tennessee Walking Horse Association Of Western Canada............................... twhawc.com The Calgary Hunt Club.............................................................................calgaryhuntclub.ca The Greater Bragg Creek Trails Association............................................ braggcreektrails.org Trail Riding Alberta Conference........................................................................... trailriding.ca Traildusters Horse Club of Smith............................................................................................

Tri-Country Riding Club...........................................................................schenk88@telus.net Uplift Therapeutic Riding Association.............................................. sturgeonlynn@gmail.com Valley Riders Saddle Club......................................................sandyrichardson@abnorth.com Valleyview & Districts Agricultural Society.............................................valleyviewagsociety.ca Western Canadian Wagon Train..........................................................gsissons@hotmail.com Wild Rose Draft Horse Association.......................................................................wrdha.com Wildrose Mounted Shooters.................................... wildrosemountedshooters@hotmail.com Wildrose Ranch Roping Association.................................................. corypscalp@gmail.com Xtreme Wild Rose Club................................................ xtremewildrose.webs.com

BUSINESS MEMBERS 3D Paints and Quarter Horses...........................................................northernhorse.com/3d/ Balanced Body Therapy............................................................. balancedbodytherapy.ca Banff Trail Riders............................................................................................horseback.com Bar T5 Trailers and Tack..............................................................................bart5trailers.com Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health........................................................ BICanadaEquine.ca CapriCMW Insurance.................................................................................. capri.ca/horse Carpino Production & Design.........................................................palmocarpino@gmail.com Colchester Farms ................................................................................ colchesterfarms.com Creekside Equestrian Centre....................................................................................mcvc.ca Daventry Equine Appraisal Services ............................................ equineappraisers.com Davis Equine Services................................................................................ davisequine.ca Diesel Overhead Doors Inc....................................................................................dodi.ca Double T Equine First Aid............................................................bigblackteam@aol.com EQU StreamZ.................................................................................... streamz-global.com/ca Equi-Health Canada Inc................................................................ equihealthcanada.com Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) Canada Ltd............................................ealcanada.com Equine Connection Inc..................................................................... equineconnection.ca Flatlander Equine . ................................................................................flatlanderequine.com Foothills Horse Transport.............................................................foothillshorsetransport.com Higher Trails Equine Ltd....................................................................................highertrails.ca Hi-Hog Farm & Ranch Equipment........................................................................ hi-hog.com Horse In Hand Ranch Ltd................................................. horseinhandranch.com/index.html Infiniti Trails 4 Healing and Boarding Facility.............................................. infinititrails.ca Just Passing Horse Transport & Bereavement Services........................ justpassinghorses.ca Lawton & Co, LLP......................................................................................info@lawtonco.ca Martin Deerline....................................................................................martindeerline.com Moose Hill Ranch...................................................................................moosehillranch.com Mountain View Photographic Services.....................mountainviewphotographicservices.com Omega Alpha Pharmaceuticals Inc. .......................................................... omegaalpha.com Park Stables......................................................https://www.facebook.com/ParkStablesLtd/ Parkland Equestrian Centre.................................................................parklandequestrian.ca Person Equine Dust Control........................................................................... personscs.com Precision Saddle Fitting.................................................................precisionsaddlefitting.com Purina Canada................................................................................http://www.equipurina.ca Rivers Edge Camping Association....................................................riversedgecamp.org Rocking Heart Ranch Ltd............................................................ rockingheartranchltd.co Rocking Star Ranch Equine...............................................................rockingstarranch.ca RR Horsemanship......................................................................raema_racher@hotmail.com Safe & Sound Horsemanship................................. safeandsoundhorsemanship@gmail.com Strathcona Ventures ...................................................................strathconaventures.com Takoda Equine Therapy................................................................. gwmartin@telusplanet.net TD Equine Veterinary Group......................................................................... tdequinevet.com The Dressage Boutique & Equestrian Wear........................................ dressageboutique.com The Horse Park......................................................................................... thehorsepark.ca The Mane Event Equine Education & Trade Show................................. maneeventexpo.com The Masterson Method - Lori Hoppe MMCP, Instructor.....................mastersonmethod.com The School of Equine Massage and Rehabilitation Therapies......................... equinerehab.ca The Tack Collector.................................................................................... thetackcollector.ca Vitality Equine .......................................................................................vitalityequine.com Western Horse Review....................................................................westernhorsereview.com Whispering Equine Bodyworks Inc............................. whisperingequinebodyworks.com

ALBERTA BITS I SPRINGOUR 2020 BE SURE TO SUPPORT BUSINESS MEMBERS! THOSE LISTED IN BLUE PROVIDE DISCOUNTS TO AEF MEMBERS. VISIT OUR LIST OF EQUINE FACILITIES ON OUR WEBSITE!

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2020 APRIL 24th - 26th

Clinician Line-Up

Jill Henselwood - Jumping Cindy Ishoy - Dressage Glenn Stewart - Horsemanship Andrea Udal - Barrel Racing Kade Mills - Horsemanship Tik Maynard - Eventing Ty Evans - Donkey/Mules And More To Come!

Trainers Challenge The crowd pleasing Trainers Challenge returns to see 3 top trainers try their hand at breaking 3 horses from Rocking Heart Ranch.

Cain Quam Matt Robertson Trevor Mertes

(844) 578-7518

Advance Tickets Advance Tickets are on sale for the 14th Annual event. Order your tickets online and SAVE $$$! Tickets are available at the door also.

www.maneeventexpo.com