Alberta Bits Summer 2023

AEF ANNUAL AWARDS! SUMMER 2023

Spotlight on the

PLANNING A HORSE SHOW

BUYING YOUR

HIT THE TRAILS THIS SUMMER

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SUMMER 2023; VOLUME 16, ISSUE 2 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 involvements, 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, and 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 Contact: board@albertaequestrian.com PRESIDENT Sandy Bell PRESIDENT-ELECT Jason Edworthy SECRETARY Jennifer Dimopolous TREASURER Nicolas Brown INDIVIDUAL Mary Bell INDIVIDUAL Patrick Buffalo INDIVIDUAL Claire Goddard INDIVIDUAL Brooke Hartwick INDIVIDUAL Edna Kaiser INDIVIDUAL Cailin Kopetski INDIVIDUAL Brenda Spanier INDIVIDUAL Kate Wood

AEF STAFF

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Sonia Dantu execdir@albertaequestrian.com 403-253-4411 ext 5

MEMBERSHIP

Jessa Arnold membership@albertaequestrian.com 403-253-4411 ext 6 OFFICE COORDINATOR

Norma Cnudde info@albertaequestrian.com 403-253-4411 ext 1

PROJECT AND EVENT COORDINATOR

Gavin Pearson competitions@albertaequestrian.com 403-253-4411 ext 4

SPORT AND RECREATION MANAGER

Karina Fernandes coaching@albertaequestrian.com 403-253-4411 ext 3

COMMUNICATIONS AND ENGAGEMENT MANAGER

Kenda Lubeck marketing@albertaequestrian.com 403-253-4411 ext 2 FINANCE

Deb Smith-Jones finance@albertaequestrian.com 403-253-4411 ext 7

OFFICE HOURS: 8:30AM TO 4:30PM, MONDAY TO FRIDAY, EXCEPT HOLIDAYS Summer office hours, June 16 to Sept. 15: Monday-Thursday 8:30-4:30, Friday 8:30-noon 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 • Monique Noble • Kenda Lubeck CONTRIBUTORS

Marty Adams, BAR XP PHOTO Eagle Hill Equine, Judy Gerlitz Teddi Jevne, Kenda Lubeck, Tania Millen Monique Noble, Katerine Pard Bonnie Timmons ADVERTISING SALES REPRESENTATIVES

Laurie Price • ldprice63@gmail.com • 403-823-0980 ADVERTISING SALES DEADLINES Fall 2023: August 25, 2023 FOR A MEDIA KIT AND/OR RATE CARD PLEASE CONTACT ALBERTABITS@ALBERTAEQUESTRIAN.COM All material is copyright 2023. 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.

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

albertaequestrian.com

6 PRESI DENT ’S MESSAGE 6 EX ECUT I VE DI RECTOR’S MESSAGE 8 BI T S & PI ECES Meet your new AEF Board of Directors and the Emergency Equine

Help Directory.

9

BI T S & PI ECES New AEF Team Member, Gavin Pearson, Horses and Smoke.

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HOW TO PLAN A SUCCESSFUL HORSE SHOW Planning a horse show requires a lot of work, but can be a very

rewarding experience.

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TRAILS Tania Millen gives us the rundown on some of the best trail riding spots in Alberta.

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AEF ANNUAL AWARDS Congratulations to these deserving AEF members who have made positive

impacts throughout our community!

1 9 KID’S CORNER 20 DIGESTIVE AIDS IN HORSE FEEDS Understanding the various digestive aids in Purina’s equine supplements.

22

BREED PROFILE A trusted companion for thousands of years, the donkey is an incredibly smart and

surprisingly charming member of the Equidae family.

26

YOUR FIRST HORSE Professional trainer, Wendy Nelson, lends some advice for purchasing your

first equine companion.

28

ASK ABOUT INSURANCE Understanding some of the diverse insurance products Acera can offer to

the equine community.

29 CLUB & BUSINESS LISTINGS 30 HOLD YOUR HORSES ON THE COVER: The versatile and surprisingly charming donkey.

4 ALBERTA BITS I SUMMER 2023

Spotlight on the

PLANNING A HORSE SHOW

BUYING YOUR

HIT THE TRAILS THIS SUMMER

Donkey 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

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Message from President, Sandy Bell The world of magazine publishing is a complicated one, and Alberta Bits is no exception. Even after writing this column for over two years, I’m still not used to creating content months in advance of when you get it in your inbox or your mailbox.

I’m writing this in spring for you to read in summer. I’m looking out at snow in the bush and big mounds of it left by the plow. But... I can picture the summer season and I see an enthusiastic renewal of activities and growth in your equine-related interests.

In late winter and early spring, we plan and prepare for more riding and driving when the weather is better.

We check our tack and our trailers, and we condition ourselves and our trusty steeds. We sign up for clinics and shows, and we wrangle up friends for trails and camps. Like our horses, donkeys, and mules, we dream of life in the green.

As we plan and prepare, we have ensured we are members of the AEF. We are taking advantage of the programs and services offered by the AEF that

Lagsi and Sandy, photo by Judy Gerlitz

support our summer and fall goals, including Live Outside the Box for our children, the Ride & Drive Program and AEF’s Wild Rose shows.

Plan and prepare – the solid foundation for summer success, including for the AEF Board of Directors. The board meets in June, then meets again in October. Our summers are busy like yours

with equine related activities. Board work continues or ramps up in September, especially in finance, board development and governance projects.

On behalf of the AEF board, I wish everyone a happy summer! Watch for some new things offered by the AEF this season. Stay safe, have fun, take care of each other. AB

Message from Executive Director, Sonia Dantu Where has the past year gone and how are we already enjoying the longer days and warmer nights of summer?

Time seems to pass us by at a rapid pace and I often find myself saying, “Slow down, breathe, and make the most of each day.” Times are still challenging for so many, but hopefully with the change in seasons, we have new growth and activities to look forward to.

On March 18, it was such a pleasure for our team to host our fifth annual Stride With Us in person and recognize our 2022 Annual Award winners.

We haven’t had the opportunity to see each other for such a long time it seems, and being together in person, laughing, celebrating, and catching up, brought out feelings of happiness in all of us! Thank to you everyone who attended and to our supporters of this event, particularly Acera Insurance, for their ongoing support of the 6 ALBERTA BITS I SUMMER 2023

Annual Awards. We are extremely proud of our community and the amazing individuals that are part of it.

As we transition throughout the year, we will continue to work on ensuring the AEF membership experience is a positive, simple journey. Designing that experience is a top priority for us

because our members matter. Part of this includes continuous improvement to the new database and website. (If you haven’t visited our site yet, please do so! We invite your comments and suggestions.)

Building our outreach through the community will happen by hosting

events and participating in trade shows. Building stronger relationships through exciting recreational trail projects and educational offerings, both online and in person, will be a priority. Our relationship with Equestrian Canada will continue to ensure those who participate in sport have a meaningful experience.

Aligned with our 2023-2028 strategic and operational plan, we will concentrate on: · Continuing to strengthen and grow our membership base, · Fostering and building a sense of community, · Enhancing the membership experience and providing a way for members to provide input, · Revamping the website to ensure a positive experience, membership retention, brand repositioning, and a continual refresh of the online store, · Reaching non-members in the province to encourage new membership and support for the Alberta equine industry, · Supporting the Alberta equine industry with current, ongoing, and future needs, and

· Continuing to meet the Government of Alberta’s legislative and accountability requirements for funding.

Some of this will be accomplished over the next five years by focusing on our goals to: · Increase awareness of the value of membership, · Ensure robust learning opportunities for the equine community, · Expand leadership in environmental and social responsibility, · Ensure strong team performance, · Ensure organizational stability through sustainable revenue.

We welcome you to ride and drive along with us, and we thank you for your constant, ongoing support. AEF would not be able to accomplish its goals without our membership.

On that note, now is the time of year we all appreciate – creating summer adventures. Whether you are heading out to the mountains for a packing trip, a day ride, a competition, or planning a BBQ and spending time with friends, family, and your equine pals, take the time to make the most out of this season. AB

AEF SUMMER OFFICE HOURS JUNE 16 TO SEPTEMBER 15 8:30AM TO 4:30PM MONDAY TO THURSDAY; FRIDAYS 8:30AM TO NOON. ALBERTA BITS I SUMMER 2023

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BITS & PIECES

New AEF Board Members The AEF Board of Directors are pleased to welcome new directors – Claire Goddard, Brooke Hartwick, Edna Kaiser, Cailin Kopetski and Kate Wood – who were elected to the Board on March 16, 2023. On behalf of AEF Community, welcome to the Board of Directors; we look forward to working with you.

AEF’s membership is extremely broad and, as the industry grows, having board members with a variety of backgrounds and professional expertise will assist our organization in continually working toward the goal of growing the Alberta equine community. AB

Emergency Help Directory Created for Equines in Need In response to the threat of multiple wildfires throughout the province this year, Alberta declared a provincial state of emergency to ensure the safety, health, and welfare of Albertans. Emergency responders have worked around the clock to keep people safe and reduce the threat to homes and infrastructure.

The Government of Alberta Emergency Management Agency has asked AEF to create an ‘Emergency Help’ directory connecting equine owners in need with those who have the means to help.

If you have the means and are interested in helping equines in need, please visit: albertaequestrian.com. *Please note AEF will not be coordinating the transport of feed or horses, so it will be directly between those who need help and those who offered help to coordinate any interaction.

If you are in need of equine assistance, please consult the directory we have listed online at: https://albertaequestrian.com/community/news/wildfireemergency-help-directory-created-for-equines-in-need The Emergency Help Directory was created for equines in need as a neutral venue for horse owners and providers of horse-related services to find, communicate with, and interact with each other. The Alberta Equestrian Federation “AEF” does not screen horse owners nor service providers in the emergency directory. Service providers are not under the direction or control of AEF and have the sole discretion 8 ALBERTA BITS I SUMMER 2023

on how to provide services requested by the horse owners.

All transactions conducted using the emergency directory are between the horse owners and service providers. Horse owners and service providers are solely responsible for making decisions that are in the best interests of themselves and their horses and should exercise caution and their independent judgment before engaging a service provider or providing services. AEF makes no representations or warranties about the quality of services provided by the service providers or about the horse owners’ interactions and dealings and AEF expressly disclaims liability for any actions or omissions, claims, injuries, loss, harm and/or damages arising from and/or in any way related to the interactions or dealings between horse owners and service providers. AB

BITS & PIECES

Gavin Pearson,

Welcome to Our Team!

We are delighted to announce Gavin Pearson has joined our dynamic team of staff as the new Project and Event Coordinator.

If Gavin’s name is familiar, it’s because he already has a proven track record of organizing successful equine symposiums and clinics in the province. His organizational skills, combined with a great passion for horses, are an incredible asset for the team. Gavin will be busy planning and delivering a wide range of events and programs for the Alberta equestrian community.

He will also coordinate the sanctioning of Wild Rose and Equestrian Canada competitions, as well as oversee the AEF Officials Program.

Gavin spends his leisure time with his two horses, Red and Dossier. While Red is his hunter/jumper partner, Dossier prefers dressage.

Watch for Gavin out at equine events this summer and into the fall. We look forward to his contributions to the team and are thrilled to have his skills and expertise on board! AB

Horses Exposed to Wildfire Smoke Steps you can take to lessen the effects.

Early wildfires this spring have exposed many Albertans to harmful levels of smoke particulate. While there is little information available on the effects of smoke inhalation on horses, horse health experts say we can assume the effects are similar on equines as they are on humans.

Here are some general guidelines to help limit damage to horses’ lungs and speed up the recovery process once the smoke has cleared.

1. Limit exercise when smoke is noticeable. Experts agree that an Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) of seven or higher means humans (and horses) should consider reducing or rescheduling strenuous outdoor activities. An AQHI of ten or more should be a no-go for outdoor activities and exercise. Visit weather.gc.ca/airquality/pages/ to access your local AQHI. 2. If your horse is on hay, feed only dust-free hay or soak it in water before feeding to eliminate exposure to additional lung irritants.

3. Make sure your horse has access to plenty of fresh water.

4. Have a vet examine your horse if they are coughing, wheezing, or having difficulty breathing.

5. If your horse has suffered smoke-related damage to their lungs, horse health practitioners advise giving them at least four to six weeks to heal before returning to work or training. AB

A bomber tries to fend off the flames in the background, while this ranch brought in the animals of neighbours during a horrendous wildfire scare. Elli Meinert 2017 ALBERTA BITS I SUMMER 2023

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PLANNING A SUCCESSFUL HORSE SHOW Thinking of organizing a horse show? It can be a big undertaking, but there are many benefits for you, your club, and your equine community.

B Y K E N D A LU B E C K Teddi Jevne

There is no doubt that hosting a horse show will lead to some long days of planning, organizing, and scheduling, and even longer days of managing during the competition. The more details you look after before the show starts, the more prepared you’ll be to conquer any issue that comes your way during the actual event.

Initial considerations to planning your competition are deciding the type of show and classes you will offer. What venue or facility will you use? Have you purchased insurance,

and is it adequate? Who will be your officials and are they credible, fair and professional? Finally, who will you be sanctioning your competition with?

A sanctioned show is one where the hosts and organizers adhere to a set of conditions and rules in order to be “approved” and authorized by the sanctioning body. Hundreds of horse shows are held across the province each year. While some are sanctioned by the Alberta Equestrian Federation (AEF) or Equestrian Canada (EC), others are hosted by another entity, such as a

BENEFITS OF SANCTIONING Safety is a top priority when it comes to planning and running a horse show.

While you prepare for an incident-free event, you still need to mitigate risks.

By sanctioning your competition, you confirm that the show staff, officials, volunteers, and participants have the correct insurance in place should an incident occur.

The fundamental benefit of sanctioning a show is to ensure processes are in place to help reduce risks. Other benefits, 10 ALBERTA BITS I SUMMER 2023

depending upon the sanctioning body, may include: · Free promotional opportunities with the sanctioning body. · Safety for show organizers, officials, volunteers, and participants. · Equine medication testing (EC). · Having a defined set of rules to follow. · Access to carded officials. · Rider and organizer incentives. · Results reporting.

breed registry. While it’s not mandatory to sanction a horse show, there are real benefits, such as risk mitigation, for organizers who choose to sanction their event. Sanctioning with AEF or EC allows you to use accredited officials, ensuring the competitors receive fair and consistent judging, safe classes, and ensure that AEF or EC rules are being followed. It also brings a sense of familiarity to competitors, as sanctioned shows have consistent applications for their classes, tests, courses and patterns.

PLANNING A SANCTIONED SHOW

your insurance 3 Have company fill out the

applicable insurance certificate and submit it to the appropriate office.

Congratulations, you’ve decided to sanction your competition. But where do you start planning?:

Decide if your competition is going to be sanctioned through EC (Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum) or the AEF (Wild Rose). The sanctioning levels are determined by the amount of prize money and types of classes you will be offering. Please refer to the EC rule book under General Regulations to determine which EC level your show falls under.

AEF sanctions Wild Rose competitions as well as EC Bronze or Silver competitions. EC sanctions all horse trials (eventing) and vaulting competitions, EC Gold and Platinum competitions, as well as any Bronze or Silver competitions running concurrently with a Gold competition.

2 Fill out the applicable form and submit it, with payment, to the corresponding organization. Wild Rose show applications must be received no later than 14 days prior to the start of the competition and EC applications no later than two months prior in order to avoid late fees.

5 For Wild Rose, EC Bronze

or EC Silver competition, the AEF representative will follow up with the show certificate and post-show forms. For EC Gold or Platinum show, a representative of EC will be in touch. Wild Rose sanctioned competitions are required to return the completed post show forms to the AEF office within 10 days of competition completion. Post-show forms include an incentives report, judges report, accident/injury report and steward/technical delegate report and evaluation (if applicable).

4

Submit your prize list – this is your list of classes offered at the show, accompanied by your entry form. If you are running an EC competition, you will need to submit your prize list approval form, completed by the steward or technical delegate.

If you are using a non-carded guest judge for a Wild Rose competition, they will need to be approved before getting the okay to judge. You will need to submit the required paperwork along with references. This is only required for non-certified officials or EC Senior officials in order for them to officiate a Wild Rose sanctioned event.

Incentives for hosting a Wild Rose competition include Win Your Entry, where one lucky competitor receives up to $100 back on their entry fee. Also, competition organizers can choose one valued volunteer from their show to be recognized with a certificate of appreciation and a $50 gift card for their contribution.

For more information on hosting a sanctioned competition, visit https://www.albertaequestrian. com/sanctioning/.

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TRAILS

WHERE TO TRAIL RIDE IN ALBERTA B Y TA N IA M I L L E N

There are many beautiful trails to travel with your horse in Alberta. Tania Millen Photo

Alberta is blessed with a variety of trails and riding terrain. The foothills and mountains are popular destinations but the central and eastern regions of Alberta have great riding, too. However, there’s lots to do before loading up and hauling to your destination.

When planning a day trip, consider horse fitness, skills, footing, emergency planning, weather and trip partners.

For preparation tips, read Get Ready to Trail Ride in the 12 ALBERTA BITS I SUMMER 2023

previous issue of Alberta Bits.

Many trails are freely accessible; some are not. Riding and parking in Kananaskis country or national parks require passes which can be purchased online. Most horse campsites have a fee and many areas have specific rules for horseback riders. Check before you go.

Ready to ride? Here’s an incomplete summary of places to go, listed alphabetically by region.

TRAILS

Know before you go. Understand which parks require a pass and offer overnight camping (or not), before you hit the trail. Tania Millen Photo

SOUTH WEST BOB CREEK WILDLAND PROVINCIAL PARK is a

mix of rolling grasslands and forested hills. Riders can choose their own track and overnight pack trips are permitted. There is minimal signage so take navigation devices and be prepared for cattle.

BRAGG CREEK TRAILS are popular with hikers, mountain bikers and cross-country skiers. But they’re accessible for equestrians year-round, too. There’s separate horse trailer parking along with maps, signage and volunteer trail ambassadors. Horses need to be comfortable with other users on busy trails.

CASTLE PROVINCIAL PARK & WILDLAND PROVINCIAL PARK have extensive trails that

may be poorly marked. The exception is Syncline crosscountry ski area which has marked forested trails and a horse campsite. Alberta Parks’ summer brochure is helpful.

KANANASKIS COUNTRY has numerous horse campsites with multiple trailheads. Horse camps include Blue Rock, Dawson, Etherington, Indian Graves, Little Elbow, Mesa Butte, Sandy McNabb and Strawberry.

Consider horse fitness, shoeing requirements, and wilderness skills and equipment before riding these areas.

It’s best to go with navigation devices and trail riding partners who know the areas.

WATERTON LAKES NATIONAL PARK is

horse-friendly, although parking lots can be tight and trails can be busy. A national parks pass is required.

Wishbone, Horseshoe Basin and Snowshoe trails have excellent mountain views and are easy to follow. Be prepared for bears.

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TRAILS

SOUTH EAST

YA HA TINDA is private property owned and man-

aged by Parks Canada but is not a national park. It offers exceptional riding and is very popular. Friends of the Eastern Slopes Association manages the free Bighorn campsite plus other horse camps in the region. For the best experience, go with someone familiar with the trails.

CYPRESS HILLS INTERPROVINCIAL PARK has

horse camps in both the Alberta and Saskatchewan areas of the park. Trails are marked but riders can choose their own adventure among the rolling hills. The hills are the highest point in mainland Canada between the Rocky Mountains and Labrador so be prepared for all weather. Roads can be impassible after rain.

WRITING-ON-STONE PROVINCIAL PARK has a rodeo grounds and coulees that are only accessible to guided trail riders on their own horses. Hoodoo formations plus First Nations’ and Northwest Mounted Police history make this a unique area to explore. Contact the park to book a guide.

NORTH WEST DRAYTON VALLEY RIVERSIDE HORSE TRAILS meander along the Pembina River and have a

staging area and horse camp. Drayton Valley Horse Club has been building and maintaining the trails since 1992 so contact them for details.

CENTRAL

BANFF NATIONAL PARK has extensive day and

overnight trails that access some of Canada’s most iconic mountain regions. Trails and rules are summarized in the park’s horse use guide. A national parks pass is required. There are public overnight horse pens at the Banff Light Horse Association facility in Banff but book ahead and note that riders are not permitted to camp at the facility.

BIGHORN BACKCOUNTRY PUBLIC LAND USE ZONES cover a vast area of the Alberta foothills and offer horse camps, trailheads, plus pack trip opportunities. Riding and staging areas include the Clearwater River, Cline River, Crescent Falls, Cutoff Creek, Hummingbird and Panther Corners. Consult the free Bighorn Backcountry brochure for fees, horse camps and trails. It’s big country so plan accordingly.

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JASPER NATIONAL PARK offers extensive pack trip opportunities but some great day rides, too.

Trails and rules are summarized in the park’s horse use guide. Cottonwood Corrals Association provides public overnight horse pens in Jasper. Check for vaccination and Coggins test requirements. A national parks pass is required.

WHITEHORSE WILDLAND PROVINCIAL PARK is near Cadomin and has trails leading to the

Jasper National Park boundary that have excellent mountain scenery. Trailheads are located at the popular Whitehorse Creek Campground which has pens at each campsite. Book in advance.

WILLMORE WILDERNESS PARK is ideal for

pack trips but excellent for day rides, too. Horse camps are located at Rock Lake Provincial Recreation Area and along the Smoky River near Grande Cache. Ask Willmore Wilderness Association for details.

TRAILS

Crossing a river. Tania Millen Photo

NORTH EAST ALBERTA’S IRON HORSE TRAIL is a 300 kilometre rail-to-trail which connects rural communities northeast of Edmonton. Much of the multi-use trail is horse-friendly and popular with ATVs. Horse camping may be available at regional agricultural society facilities and private horse operations. Check ironhorsetrail.ca for more.

COOKING LAKE/BLACKFOOT PROVINCIAL RECREATION AREA has multiple trailheads open to horses but no horse camping. Trails meander through forests and meadows and are suitable for barefoot horses.

More information is available from Alberta Parks.

To learn more about these and other trail riding opportunities, join regional riding organizations and social media groups. You’ll find riding partners, learn where to go, and support the continued use of trails by horseback riders. Local riders also know about trails, private ranches and horse campsites that are perfect for a weekend getaway. So connecting with like-minded folk can provide opportunities to ride in places that you might not experience otherwise.

A list of some of the Alberta-wide equine organizations is available in this issue of Alberta Bits magazine. AB ALBERTA BITS I SUMMER 2023

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2022 WINNERS The Annual Provincial Awards honour outstanding deserving members’ achievements, who stand out and have made a positive impact within Alberta’s equine community. Nominations for these awards are accepted every fall, and winners are chosen by the AEF Awards Committee.

Please help us congratulate these hard-working individuals, facilites, athletes, and horses who went above and beyond in 2022 to make the equestrian community a truly special place.

All nominations were submitted by peers.

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Outstanding Stable/Facility Equine Haven Recovery Care and Equestrian Centre Ltd. The team at Equine Haven Recovery Care and Equestrian Centre Ltd. are extremely well organized, diligent, and knowledgeable. Many equine recovery cases have come in with seemingly no hope, and they have turned around to be healthy and happy horses. Sadie and Heidi take top care of every horse on their property and thrive to continue to better the facility. They truly want their horse and rider teams to develop long-lasting relationships. Equine Haven Recovery Care and Equestrian Centre Ltd. is a safe place to learn, grow, and laugh.

Outstanding Horse NightWind’s Indigo Bey – Owner Colleen DeVry Nightwind’s Indigo Bey, also known as Indi, has proven himself through the years as an exceptional and outstanding horse. In 2018 Indi and his owner, Colleen were chosen to represent Canada at the World Equestrian Games in North Carolina for the sport of endurance—an extremely high honour for any horse and rider team! Throughout his 15 years as an endurance athlete, Indi earned numerous top finishes, high vet scores, and coveted Best Condition Awards.

Now 20 years old, Indi remains in the best shape of his life. He proves his patience with the littlest of beginners in weekly lessons and summer riding camps. His kind eyes and laid-back nature in the barn make him a favourite for all who come through the barn.

Outstanding Instructor/Coach Lisa Denyer Lisa is a kind instructor who excels at teaching. She understands all levels of riders from students who want to compete at shows such as beginner equestrian schooling tournaments, to those wanting to compete at Spruce Meadows.

In addition to being an NCCP coach, Lisa is an equine first aid instructor and horse show judge. She is one of the most dedicated equestrians, always looking for new ways to expand her knowledge and education in the industry to better help her clients and horses. Lisa’s dedication to the equine sport is evident. Watching her interact and teach is so magical; she really loves what she does!

Outstanding Equine Personnel Judy Robertson Anyone who has ever boarded, taken lessons, or visited the Whitemud Equine Learning Centre has most likely met Judy. Judy is a staff member at Whitemud and has been for more than 35 years! That alone speaks to her dedication to the horses and people she has looked after all these years. The health and welfare of all the horses, be it a lesson or boarder’s horse, is her top priority. Her knowledge of the horses in her care creates an environment that puts everyone at ease. While Judy is deaf, she has a heightened sense of how the horses feel; her meticulous care and attention is second to none.

ALBERTA BITS I SUMMER 2023

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Sportsmanship Excellence Savannah Hanson

Whether in the barn, arena, or out on the endurance trail, Savannah is a leader and a model competitor.

At Savannah’s young age, she is an example for all competitors, making sure the welfare of the horse, the thrill of the ride, and the ‘to finish is to win’ motto of the Endurance Riders of Alberta is instilled into the hearts of all riders. Savannah leads by example and ensures that at the end of the day, no matter how she finished the race, everyone had fun and finished with smiles on their faces.

Savannah’s soft-spoken nature helps new and young riders feel at ease on their horse, praising them for the smallest victory and making sure they are happy at the end of their lesson. This dedicated athlete is the true picture of teamwork, kindness, and perseverance in sport.

Outstanding Volunteer Kathy Marston

For over 20 years Kathy has put in a tremendous amount of volunteer hours in support of several community organizations, both outside and within the equine community. Kathy has been instrumental in organizing educational events for generations of Pony Club members in this province and beyond.

She is a trusted source of knowledge for the National Pony Club organization when it comes to testing.

Kathy has a great passion for the education of youth in the art of horsemanship and riding. She has often opened up her home to teach kids stable management, has volunteered as course designer, steward, tack check, show jumping judge, scribe, show organizer, and chaperone. Kathy is a joy to work with and will always go above and beyond to make sure any event is a success.

Above & Beyond Excellence Jamee DeWit

Jamee was nominated for this award by the entire Calgary Stampede Showriders Team and their families. Jamee is the ultimate representation of someone who models above and beyond excellence!

She has made a historical impact on the equine community in Alberta as well as internationally through her mentoring of the youth members of the Calgary Stampede Showriders over the years. She has also worked with many 4-H clubs over the past 20 plus years developing young equestrians and contributing to the continuation and growth of equestrian sport.

Jamee is an exceptional member of the Alberta equine community and has made many extremely significant contributions to the industry, the Calgary community, and surrounding area as a whole. She is an outstanding equestrian, coach, mentor, and team member who always goes “above and beyond” and helps the whole community achieve “excellence”!

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S ’ D I K CORNER

Hey Kids!!

Contact the AEF for an activity book and crayons!

Phone: 403-253-4411 • Toll Free: 1-877-463-6233 Email: info@albertaequestrian.com

ALBERTA BITS I SUMMER 2023

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HORSE KEEPING

DIGESTIVE AIDS IN HORSE FEEDS What are the Benefits?

B Y M A RT Y A D A M S , PH D, PAS - E QU I N E N U T R I T I ON I ST F OR P U R I NA C ON N E C T

We continue to learn more about the benefits of digestive aids formulated into horse feed and supplements. Equine nutrition research is continuing to learn more about the effects that probiotic bacteria, live yeast, yeast culture or postbiotics, and marine calcite have in the horse’s digestive tract. Some of these benefits go beyond supporting gut health to improve digestion and absorption, and have been shown to support the immune system, reduce inflammation and provide a more stable microbiome for even more benefits for the horse to perform to their full genetic potential. These digestive aids could be helpful to horses as they face stressors and challenges associated with the phases of the horse’s active life including training, feed changes, competition, breeding, trailering, and weather changes. Following is a discussion of these digestive aids and how they can benefit the horse.

Other supplements may be a consideration for the horse at work, such as Omega 3 to reduce inflammatory reactions, and pre/probiotics to stabilize the intestinal flora and strengthen the immune system.

It is essential to serve your horse a balanced ration yearround. When work decreases, so do their nutritional needs, but they do not disappear. Deficiencies accumulated during the winter can take up to three months to be filled, which will take you to about the end of the competition season before your horse is at its maximum potential.

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PROBIOTIC BACTERIA Probiotic bacteria added to horse feed and supplements are live microorganisms that can help to maintain the normal healthy bacterial population of the large intestine.

The equine microbiome consists of all the microorganisms and their interactions in the large intestine or hindgut.

Changes in the equine microbiome are known to occur in colic and laminitis, with a reduction in diversity of the bacterial species residing in the hindgut, and these two problems are the leading causes of mortality in horses. A research study found that horses requiring colic surgery had significantly less microbial diversity than horses having non-colic, elective surgery at a large veterinary clinic. Other studies have shown microbial diversity lower in older horses compared to younger horses, horses fed high-starch compared to low-starch concentrate meals, and in stressful situations where horses were trailered for six hours compared to horses that weren’t trailered. In two separate studies, horses fed a probiotic supplement showed a significantly greater microbiome diversity. A more diverse equine microbiome due to probiotic bacterial supplementation may provide more stability and resistance to age, stress, and dietary changes that could decrease digestive health issues.

HORSE KEEPING

LIVE YEAST

MARINE CALCITE

Live yeast cells, which have the scientific name Saccharomyces Cerevisiae, are another digestive aid provided in horse feed and supplements. Live yeast can provide beneficial effects as active metabolizing cells and through the metabolites provided to other microbes when those cells die and break down. These metabolites can have beneficial effects in two ways: increasing growth of other beneficial microbes and providing metabolites that can have positive effects in other areas of the horse aside from the digestive system. Studies have shown that shifting of the microbiome population and significant increase in fiber digestibility with dietary addition of live yeast allows the horse to get more calories from its feed. Since the main portion of the horse’s diet consists of high fiber ingredients such as hay and pasture, obtaining more calories from the fibrous portion of the diet can be especially beneficial for performance horses that have greater energy requirements.

Research with feeding live yeast has shown other benefits in actively trained horses including increased protein metabolism, increased red blood cell production, deceased inflammatory stress, less weight loss (probably due to increased fiber digestibility), and increased performance or speed due to horses reaching maximal heart rate more quickly.

Also known as calcified red seaweed, this natural ingredient has a porous structure and is a highly available source of calcium. When gastric pH gets too acidic (pH < 4.0), conditions become prime for gastric ulcers in the horse. This marine calcite has over twice the buffering capacity, compared to calcium carbonate, in raising pH or reducing acidity in the equine stomach. Maintaining higher gastric pH in the horse supports decreased incidence of gastric ulcers, which are most common in heavily exercised performance horses.

Some of these digestive aids have been selectively included in our premium Purina® horse feed formulas to benefit your horse’s health and performance. Purina® Horse-Shield® contains live yeast and Diamond V® XPC and is recommended for horses in travel, training, and competition. Marine calcite and Diamond V® XPC has been formulated into Purina® Digestive Balance, which can provide digestive and immune support.

As always, if you have any questions about making changes to your horse’s diet or our horse feeds or supplements, contact an Equine Nutrition Consultant. Purina has Equine Nutrition Consultants available through Purina Connect. Go to Purina Connect at www.purinaconnect.com, call us at 1-888-4586914 or email us at connect@equipurina.ca. AB

YEAST CULTURE OR POSTBIOTICS Diamond V® XPC is a microbial fermentate made with Saccharomyces Cerevisiae produced from a proprietary anaerobic fermentation process that starts with live yeast cells. Several nutrition studies have shown increased fiber digestibility using this feed additive that is similar to the effects of live yeast when added to diets of horses. More recent studies have shown other benefits due to the many bioactive compounds or metabolites produced that can improve the immune system, support a more efficient digestive system, and promote a healthy and diverse microbiome. The recognition of these benefits has allowed a revision to the name of this digestive aid from “yeast culture” to “postbiotics” in recognition of the bioactive compounds that provide significant benefits to the horse.

A study found that exercised yearlings fed Diamond V® XPC had a significantly reduced inflammatory response after training compared to control horses whose diet didn’t include this postbiotic supplement. Two other research trials, one with senior horses, and another with yearlings, showed improved immune system function when fed Diamond V® XPC compared to control groups not receiving Diamond V® XPC. Including this postbiotic supplement in horse feeds and supplements can provide many benefits to all horses, especially horses involved in travel, training, and competition.

For a good gastrointestinal health.

DIGESTIVE BALANCE

130032647

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BREED PROFILE

DONKEYS History’s Assets and Ass…persions B Y MON I QU E N OB L E

Donkeys were domesticated some 7,000 years ago and were integral to Egyptian trade and frequently seen in ancient hieroglyphs. Photo courtesy of the Gutenberg Project.

Donkeys have been trusted companions to humankind for thousands of years. Despite some lingering skepticism from being misunderstood, they are quite versatile and worthy animals.

In some historic cultures, the donkey was revered as an essential resource, primarily because its domestication allowed humans to travel great distances. This mobility was a crucial factor in the development of long-distance trade in Egypt.

This made donkeys a symbol of wealth to Egyptians. In some cases, donkeys were so highly regarded by their owners that they were mummified in the same manner as people held in high esteem, thus accompanying their owner in the afterlife. Donkeys were also closely associated with Christianity. Biblical canons relate that both Mary and Christ rode donkeys.

Legend attributes the cross-like markings most donkeys bear on their shoulders to the sorrow Christ’s donkey felt in the shadow of the cross. Unable to leave his master, but unable to watch his death, the donkey turned away and the shadow of the cross fell upon his back and has remained there ever since.

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It is hard to believe that such a humble, helpful creature could on one hand be so revered, but then on the other, subjected to harsh ridicule. On the other side of the spectrum, donkeys have been portrayed as foolish, stubborn, and a symbol of poverty throughout history. Unflattering literary portrayals of donkeys have occurred from the times of ancient Greek poetry to present day pop culture. William Shakespeare himself popularized the term ‘ass’ in reference to imbecilic, clownish characters in his work. It was because of this the term ‘ass’ became a

Donkeys are related to horses and are part of the Equidae family.

pejorative and the less offensive term ‘donkey’ started being used instead.

Where the name donkey came from is unknown, but speculated to have come from the Middle English word ‘donekie’ which sounded more like ‘monkey’ and referred to a small dun horse, or possibly just the word dun itself which is a grayish brown colour common in donkeys.

Happily, despite their original nom de plume and unfair representation, donkeys have flourished as one of humankind’s most steadfast and hardiest companions, proving more robust and nimbler than their equine cousins in most environments.

Donkeys are related to horses and are part of the Equidae family; however, they are a distinct species. As such, they have their own nomenclature. Male donkeys are known as jacks and females are known as jennies. Jacks are frequently bred to female horses to produce mules.

Jacks have been bred to mares for centuries, as a mare can produce larger, more rideable offspring than a jenny. If a male horse, or stallion, is bred to a jenny, the resulting offspring is called a hinny – a less common cross than a mule. Surprisingly, hinnies and mules are quite different in appearance. Horses and donkeys have distinct mating behaviours and, as a result, most stallion-to-jenny breedings are accidental and result in smaller offspring. Due to being species hybrids, almost all mules and hinnies are sterile.

While donkey breeds are diverse, some things remain constant. With sizes ranging from miniature (24 inches tall and weighing 115 lbs) to mammoth (average 14 hands high and weighing 1,200 lbs – the largest on record reaching 17 hands), a donkey is still, recognizably, a donkey. Capable of living over 30 years, donkeys vary in colour from white, to dun, and black, with most falling happily

BREED PROFILE

A sweet beginning, jenny Fox Spring Pink welcomes Fox Spring Tessa’s foal, Faeri, into the world. Photo courtesy of Eagle Hill Equine.

in the middle with a grayish-brown colour.

Manes and tails are sparse, with the mane standing upright and their tails – more like a cow’s tail than a horse’s – are tufted with hair at the end. Donkey hair coats are not waterproof, and consequently, they can get water-logged. Because of this, they require adequate shelter from inclement weather.

Donkey heads are shorter and less refined than a horse’s but proportionate to

their bodies. They have large, intelligent eyes and straight, elongated ears that are constantly in motion and attentive. There is speculation that their sizeable ears also help them regulate body temperature.

Donkey necks are strong and short and tie into a steep shoulder. Donkeys have almost no wither, but they do have short, strong backs with well-sprung rib cages leading to powerful and well-proportioned hind

quarters. Built for neither speed nor comfort, a donkey’s stride is short and efficient; their legs are well muscled with good bone.

Ideally a donkey’s pastern angles match their shoulders and lead into strong, small hooves that, while similar to horses, require distinct farrier care. Donkey hooves are more u-shaped and have a different angle than a horse’s hoof. They are also more elastic and grow at a different rate. It is ALBERTA BITS I SUMMER 2023

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BREED PROFILE

To this day, Sampson, a Shire gelding, still holds the record for the world’s largest horse ever recorded.

Donkeys are commonly marked with a black or dark dorsal stripe and markings across their withers known as the “donkey’s cross” as seen here on jennet Fox Spring Pink. The terms jennet and jenny are interchangeable for a female donkey. Photo courtesy of Eagle Hill Equine.

important that a donkey’s farrier be wellversed in the differences between donkey and horse needs. Like any hooved animal, it is easy to lame a donkey with incorrect trimming practices.

Incredibly sure-footed, donkeys can be ridden but they are better suited as pack animals, driving stock, or livestock guardians and companions. Donkeys are incredibly brave, and – unlike their horse cousins – they generally will have a standoff with anything they feel is threatening, aggressively defending themselves and their herd mates if need be.

While donkeys do have a bad reputation as not being dog friendly, when properly introduced, a donkey will tolerate dogs, provided the dogs are polite and don’t harass them. Donkeys are very adaptable, social creatures, and will make friends with any herd they are put in, 24 ALBERTA BITS I SUMMER 2023

but two donkeys are always better than one. It is also very important to keep in mind that donkeys are designed to be ideal desert dwellers. Extremely hardy animals, they can live on very little or low nutrient forage. As a result, donkeys are notoriously easy keepers and can get

it is critical that a watchful eye is kept on their weight and treats are, sadly, kept to a minimum.

Donkeys are incredibly smart and surprisingly charming; they are cute and funny, and they know it. A well socialized donkey is engaging, curious, and eager to please their humans. They often form incredibly strong bonds and remember friends even after long periods of separation. Donkeys remember everything, particularly if they had a bit of a rough start in life, which can make rescuing donkeys a little difficult. It can be challenging to re-establish trust with a donkey that has been mistreated. Often this remarkable memory and high sense of self-preservation results in donkeys being referred to as stupid and stubborn.

Known as a ‘hee-haw,’ a donkey’s bray very fat, very easily. Obesity in donkeys is unique as they create this sound while can lead to both laminitis and founder so

Donkeys are incredibly smart and surprisingly charming.

BREED PROFILE

both inhaling and exhaling. In contrast, horses cannot make sounds while inhaling (mules, interestingly enough, can both bray and neigh). A bray is loud and can be heard up to three kilometres away. Donkeys bray for a number of reasons: to communicate with other donkeys, to let you know they haven’t been fed, to let you know they haven’t been fed enough, and to warn of dangers or irregularities in their environment. If a donkey is braying persistently, it is a good idea to investigate, as it may mean they are stressed, either by their own illness or discomfort, or by a herd mate’s discomfort (another reason they make such good companion and watch animals).

Happy donkeys will also bray when they see someone they are fond of, and if you start laughing don’t be surprised if they join you. They are quick to learn that shared humour usually also leads to shared food and all the good scratches.

Alberta donkey lover and breeder Kim Baerg often cannot keep up with the demand for well-socialized, wellbred donkeys. Baerg’s journey with donkeys began in 1988 when she was gifted Fox Spring Tess as a foal. “Tess” quickly won Baerg over and helped to create a well-established and respected breeding program at Eagle Hill Equine near Sundre, Alberta. A donkey’s gestation period can last from 11 to 14 months, allowing donkeys to have a foal only every two years, which can make building and maintaining a quality herd of donkeys challenging.

While demand for donkeys is still present in Canada, the number of donkeys has been in sharp decline.

The world population of donkeys has dropped by millions in the last decade, which has generally been attributed to technological progress expanding across the globe. Fortunately Baerg is not the only champion of donkeys who feels that conservation will be vital to preserving the species in the future. The number of donkey sanctuaries and conservatories are growing, as donkey lovers and breeders ensure there will always be a friendly, long-eared face trying to charm its way into your treat pockets. AB

Kim Baerg of Eagle Hill Equine has been a donkey lover and breeder for over 20 years and prides herself in the friendliness and trainability of her herd progeny. Photo courtesy of Eagle Hill Equine.

Not giving a treat to a friendly donkey will be one of the hardest things you’ll ever have to do.

Fox Spring Kinder is ri-donk-ulously cute. Photo courtesy of Eagle Hill Equine.

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YOUR FIRST HORSE Buying and keeping a horse is a big commitment. As such, it’s imperative that your first horse is the right match for you. Avoid frustration and ensure a good experience with these tips for acquiring your first equine companion.

B Y J E N N W E B ST E R

There’s nothing more rewarding and therapeutic than spending time in the barn with your equine companion.

If you’re considering the purchase of your first horse, it’s very important to do your research, seek out guidance, and take the time necessary to make such a decision. Never purchase a horse on a whim!

Along with the help of Wendy Nelson, an Equestrian Canada (EC) NCCP High Performance Reining Coach and Licensed under the new EC Coach Status program, we offer you some tips for pursuing your first horse. With smart buying strategies, you’ll prepare yourself for what’s ahead and hopefully make a purchase that will benefit your riding goals for many years to come.

THE OPTIONS

First things first… You’ve decided you’d like to own a horse – but do you know there may be other options available? Horse ownership is a big time and even bigger financial commitment. Have you considered taking lessons on a lesson horse? Or have you considered leasing a horse? If you have – and you would still like more “horse time” – then purchasing an equine might be the answer.

“Any time you buy a horse, you have to ensure it’s the right fit,” says Nelson.

Based near Cochrane, Alta., Nelson specializes in training western performance horses, with a focus on reining.

She is also an EC Learn to Ride Western Assessor Levels 1 to 4: Level 4 being a requirement for those pursuing their certification goal.

“Horses are expensive. And unfortunately, sometimes people make rash decisions when purchasing horses.

26 ALBERTA BITS I SUMMER 2023

“Dependable, safe horses are well worth the money. Horses are big creatures, and you don’t want your kids to be scared of them right off the bat. Kids need confidence builders.” ~ Wendy Nelson

Don’t buy a horse on a whim! But do listen to your intuition. You want to have your horse for a long time and maintain a positive experience. If you have a bad first experience, that’s something that can stay with you your entire life,” she says.

“This is especially true for parents looking to buy something for their kids. Dependable, safe horses are well worth the money. Horses are big creatures, and you don’t want your kids to be scared of them right off the bat.

Kids need confidence builders.”

THE RIGHT HORSE FOR THE JOB

Long before you make the trek to visit a potential sale horse, you should have some idea of what discipline you’d like to do. From trail riding, to show jumping, every equine activity requires the right type of animal for the job. That means colour should never be a main consideration, but breed, size, and previous training will be important.

You may also want to decide beforehand whether you prefer a mare or gelding (as a general rule, a stallion

should never be on the list for a firsttime horse buyer). Geldings are typically easier to house, and because they don’t have estrus cycles like mares, are generally more consistent to handle.

However, that doesn’t mean you should write off the possibility of owning a mare. Like people, each horse is an individual.

When it comes to finding a horse, searching through Kijiji is probably not the best way to acquire your new riding partner. Know your budget and expect to pay a great deal for a safe, sound, conformationally correct horse.

Since COVID-19, the price of horses has escalated significantly, so don’t be surprised if what you’re searching for is expensive. Also know that it will take time to go through the purchasing procedures, so you might want to avoid bringing your trailer the first time you meet with the seller.

“When you go to buy a horse, either take a professional with you, or have enough knowledge to understand good temperament and quality conformation. Understand what maintenance issues the horse may have, depending on its age and athletic abilities. And know the health of the horse,” Nelson explains.

“You can save yourself a lot of bumps and bruises if you avoid bad temperaments and conformation issues.”

“You should also understand that older horses or retired high-performance mounts will most likely come with some maintenance issues. This is not necessarily a reason to reject a specific horse. Older, experienced horses can offer so much in terms of learning for new or younger riders. And, if taken care of properly, they will likely have quite a few good years left in them,” the trainer states.

“And high-performance horses will require maintenance – whether that means massage, injections, special shoeing, supplements, etc. So be prepared to put more financially into your new mount AFTER you buy it. Don’t shy away from all maintenance issues, because any athletic horse will require some kind of assistance.”

On this note, Nelson mentions the importance of a pre-purchase exam.

This is when an unbiased veterinar-

Long before you make the trek to visit a potential sale horse, you should have some idea of what discipline you’d like to do. Teddi Jevne Photo

ian (ideally one who has not seen the horse before), is brought in to evaluate all aspects of the sale horse. This exam is paid for by the potential buyer and involves checking the horse’s soundness and general health. If further observations are needed, the vet may recommend more testing or X-rays for a more complete evaluation. Then, the vet lays all the findings out for both the buyer and seller and the potential buyer decides if they can live with the findings or not.

“Even if you are an experienced horse person, it’s always advisable to get a pre-purchase exam done so you have a baseline for the future,” says Nelson.

“If you do end up buying the horse, a couple years down the road you will have previous health records to look back on. With any luck, you gave your equine companion lots of good care during that time and its health may have even improved!”

EYES WIDE OPEN

Remember that the most inexpensive part of horse ownership will be the initial purchase. After you have made the decision to bring your horse home, you must then take care of your new family member. It is advisable to pull together a monthly budget, so you are not caught off guard. Research what your board/feed costs will be, bedding, supplements, farrier expenses, tack and equipment, training fees, memberships, and any lesson or show expenses. Ensure you can handle those fees financially before plunging into horse ownership! There may also be a commission fee required for any professional assisting you in the purchase – and it may be in addition to the purchase price.

If you have performed your due diligence, you should be in good shape for your new investment. Good luck with your new companion! AB ALBERTA BITS I SUMMER 2023

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ASK ABOUT INSURANCE

Answering some of your most important equine related insurance questions.

As the risk management partner for the AEF and its members, our team at Acera Insurance are asked many questions about the insurance we deliver to the diverse equine community in Alberta.

I know I can speak on behalf of my colleagues to say that the best part of our day is when we are answering those inquiries to help unravel the confusion surrounding insurance for our thousands of equine industry clients.

Of the many products and services we provide, it is the personal liability coverage that remains the most discussed, and in the minds of many, represents the most important component of our program.

The following are frequently asked questions and I hope that this information is useful. If this article leads you to ask more questions of Acera Insurance, PLEASE do so; we are at your service!

1. Does this policy cover me, the member, or the horses I own?

Answer: As a member in good standing of the AEF, YOU, THE MEMBER, are covered for liability that could be imposed upon you if a horse you own, lease, borrow or use causes bodily injury or property damage and you are held to be legally responsible.

2. Does it matter how many horses I have or what I do with them?

Answer: The policy covers your non-commercial activities with any number of horses, owned or non-owned; it provides protection regardless of where the horses are – worldwide.

3. What is the difference between “commercial” use and “personal” use?

Answer: If there is compensation or trade in kind being provided for the use of the horse, it may be deemed commercial use. For example, using the horse to give someone else riding instruction or pony rides for a fee, or short term rental of the horse to someone else, are a few examples of typically excluded activities. There are exceptions to the above and we 28 ALBERTA BITS I SUMMER 2023

Personal liability coverage remains one of the most discussed and most important components of our insurance program.

encourage you to ask the Acera Insurance team if you are unsure if the use of your horse will be covered.

4. How much coverage does the program provide?

Answer: The policy provides $5 million personal liability coverage. The coverage you have is not shared with any other member.

There is no aggregate limit on the policy, so in theory, if we had “1,000” claims under the program in a single term, there would be 1,000 times $5 million coverage provided. (Let’s never have that kind of year, OK?) 5. Does the policy cover me when I compete at a horse show and why does the show manager care if I have insurance?

Answer: The insurance provided to you as a member of AEF definitely protects you when you attend a horse show, clinic, etc. (any number of events, anywhere in the world). The show manager / sanctioning authority / host commonly requires that all participants have personal liability insurance in place as a means to defer and share risk. In as much as we insure several hundred horse shows and equine events each year across Canada, we know and support this simple risk management strategy. Because the AEF membership is so well known, most hosts now mandate that membership be in place.

In summary, everyone who rides, drives or enjoys horses as part of their lifestyle should be a member and take advantage of the insurance provided through membership in AEF. At Acera Insurance we are constantly working on improvements to the membership program. If you have questions, suggestions or comments, please contact Acera Insurance directly.

Have a safe and enjoyable summer. AB

Michael (Mike) A. King, Partner National Practice Leader – Equine

M E M B E R O R G A N I Z AT IO N S A S O F M AY 3 1 , 2 0 2 3 T O F I N D O U T 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 Donkey and Mule Club.........................................................albertadonkeyandmule.ca Alberta Dressage Association..................................................................albertadressage.com Alberta Equestrian Vaulting Association...........................................................vaultcanada.org Alberta Friesian Horse Association (AFHA).................................................................... afha.ca Alberta Gypsy Vanner Horse Club..................................................albertagypsyhorseshow.org Alberta Horse Trials Association............................................................. albertahorsetrials.com Alberta Junior Young Riders Association................................................................................... ....................................................... albertadressage.com/young-rider/young-rider-about.html Alberta Morgan Horse Club........................................................... albertamorganhorseclub.ca Alberta Mounted Shooters Association..........................................albertamountedshooters.ca Alberta South Region Pony Club......................................canadianponyclub.org/AlbertaSouth Alberta Team Sorting Association................................................................albertasorting.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......................... saddlebredsofalberta.com Averill Saunders Vaulting..................................................................averill4canada@gmail.com Banff Light Horse Association . ................................................................................................

Bear Valley Rescue Society............................................................................. bearvalleyab.org Beaverlodge & District Agricultural Society................................................find us on Facebook Black Diamond Polo Club.................................................................... blackdiamondpolo.com Border Cowboy Mounted Shooters Association................ www.bordermountedshooters.com Bow Valley Riding Association..................................................................bvra.wordpress.com Bragg Creek Trails Association..................................................................braggcreektrails.org Calgary and Area Alberta Dressage Association.....................................................ca-ada.com Calgary Hunt Club...................................................................................... calgaryhuntclub.ca Calgary Regional Appaloosa Club (1997)........................................... calgaryappaloosaclub.ca Calgary Regional Trail Riders........................................................calgaryregionaltrailriders.com Canadian Bridlehorse Association..................................................... canadianbridlehorse.com Canadian Eventing Development Foundation........................ canadianeventingfoundation.com Canadian Registry of the Tennessee Walking Horse.................................................... crtwh.ca Canadian Sport Horse Association - Alberta Chapter............................................. c-s-h-a.org Central Alberta Adult Riding Club....................... facebook.com/CentralAlbertaAdultRidingClub Central Century Team Ropers Association................................ centurycentralteamroping.com CHARMD (Canadian Horse Association Rocky Mountain District)..canadianhorsebreeders.com Chinook Carriage Driving Club..............albertadriving-acda.ca/chapters/chapter_chinook.html Chinook Country/Alberta Dressage Association........................................................................ .................................................................. albertadressage.com/chinook/chinook-about.html Cleardale Riders Club.....................................................................sandyrich2323@gmail.com Clearwater Horse Club................................................................ cwhctreasurer@outlook.com Cochrane Horse Trials....................................................................... cochranehorsetrials.com Cochrane Roping Club......................................................................cochraneropingclub.com Cooking Lake Saddle Club........................................................... cookinglakesaddleclub.com Cottonwood Corral Association................................cottonwoodcorralassociation@gmail.com Coulee Winds Saddle Club..................................................................... kheapy@outlook.com Davisburg Pony Club............................................................... davisburgponyclub@gmail.com Dewinton Pony Club................................................................ tina@inhandequinetherapy.com Diamond Willow Vaulting Club.............................facebook.com/groups/1404344659580056/ Dunmore Equestrian Society..............................................................dunmoreequestrian.com Eastgate Saddle Club............................................................................eastgatesaddleclub.ca Edmonton Area Alberta Dressage Association........................................................... eaada.ca Endurance Riders of Alberta...................................................... enduranceridersofalberta.com Extreme Cowboy Alberta Association................................................extremecowboyracing.ca Fort Calgary Wheel & Runner Association...................................fortcalgaryoutriders@gmail.co Friends of the Eastern Slopes................................................................................. foesa.orgm Fun Country Riding Club of Strathmore...................................................funcountryriders.com Grande Prairie Gymkhana Club........................................................ gpgymkhana@gmail.com Great Divide Trail Association..................................................................... greatdividetrail.com Greater Edmonton Polocrosse Cub...................................... greateredmontonpolocrosse.com Happy Valley Ag and Recreation Club............................facebook.com/HappyValleyAgandRec Hastings Lake Pleasure Horse Association.............. hastingslakepleasurehorseassociation.org Hay Lakes Riders Club........................................................... haylakesriders.tripod.com/index High Country Carriage Driving.................................................................................... hccdc.ca High Country Pony Club...............canadianponyclub.org/AlbertaSouth/branches/highcountry/ Irricana & District Agricultural Society...................................................... irricanaagsociety.com Journeys Therapeutic Riding Society.............................................................................. jtrs.ca Jump Alberta Society.................................................................................... jumpalberta.com Kansas Ridge Riders Club......................................................... kansasridgeriders@gmail.com Little Bits Therapeutic Riding Association................................................................. littlebits.ca Meadow Creek Vaulting Club...................................................................................... mcvc.ca Millarville Musical Ride......................................................facebook.com/MillarvilleMusicalRide Miniatures in Motion...................................................collies72.wixsite.com/miniaturesinmotion Mount View Special Riding Association.................................................. mountviewriding.com Northern Trails Riding Club........................................................... northerntrailsridingclub.com Okotoks Polocrosse Club....................................... facebook.com/groups/389241199900459 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) .............................................. pards.ca Peace Region Alberta Dressage Association (PRADA).......................... albertadressage.com Peace Draft Horse Club..................................................facebook.com/peacedrafthorseclub Peace Region Pony Club.................................................. peaceregionponyclub.weebly.com Performance Standardbreds Association............................................... p-standardbreds.org Ponoka Riding & Roping Association.......................................... gofasthorses13@gmail.com Polocrosse Calgary Society....................................................polocrossecalgary.weebly.com Ranahan Polocrosse Club.....................................................ranahanpolocrosse@gmail.com Ridgeview Riding Club.......................................................... ridgeviewridingclub@gmail.com Rimbey Sleigh, Wagon & Saddle Club.................................facebook.com/RimbeySWSClub Robinson Outreach at Rivercross Ranch...................................................................roarr.org Rocky Mountain Gymkhana Club..................................facebook.com/groups/98954016608 Rundle Riders Therapeutic Riding Association.............................................rundleriders.com Saddle Seat Canada..........................................................................saddleseatcanada.com Shortgrass Riding Club........................................................................lwaynemu@eidnet.org Society of Tilt and Lance Cavalry...............................................................................joust.ca South Country Team Penning Association................................................................sctpa.ca South Peace Horse Club..............................................................southpeacehorseclub.com Southern Alberta Trail Riders Association...................................................................satra.ca Southern Century Team Roping Association............................ southcenturyteamroping.com Spring Fling Society.................................................................................. springflingshow.ca Stone Bridge Carriage Driving Club................ facebook.com/stonebridgecarriagedrivingclub Strathcona All-Breed Horse Association...................................................... sahaalberta.com Tennessee Walking Horse Association of Western Canada................................ twhawc.com Trail Riding Alberta Conference (TRAC)............................................................... trailriding.ca Traildusters Horse Club of Smith..................................................traildustersclub@gmail.com True Grit Cowboy Mounted Shooters Association............ facebook.com/tgmountedshooters Valley Riders Saddle Club............................................................ sandyrich2323@gmail.com Valleyview & Districts Agricultural Society.............................................valleyviewagsociety.ca Vermilion Agricultural Society.........................................................................avermilionag.ca Western Canadian Wagon Train..........................................................gsissons@hotmail.com Wild Rose Draft Horse Association.......................................................................wrdha.com Wildrose Ranch Roping Association.....................facebook.com/groups/768551003291321 Working Equitation Canada - Alberta Region.................................................... workingeq.ca Xtreme Wild Rose Club................................................................. xtremewildrose.webs.com

BUSINESS MEMBERS 3D Paints and Quarter Horses............................................................ northernhorse.com/3d Acera Insurance Services Ltd....................................................................agri@capricmw.ca Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health..........................................................bicanadaequine.ca CAECO Ranch............................................................................................caecoranch.com Canadian Institute of Equine and Canine Body Works Ltd...................... ciecbweducation.ca Clipped N’ Ready Equine Services.....................facebook.com/clippednreadyequineservices Creekside Equestrian Centre....................................................................................mcvc.ca Crosshair Springs Equine Services................................................. kristacritch@hotmail.com Diesel Overhead Doors Inc............................................................dieseloverheaddoors.com Digger’s Place............................................................................................ digbits@msn.com DMC Stables............................................................................................... dmcstables.com Equine Connection - The Academy of Equine Assisted Learning...........equineconnection.ca Equine Haven Recovery Care and Equestrian Centre Ltd...............................equinehaven.ca Foothills Horse Transport.............................................................foothillshorsetransport.com Grassroots Equine Essentials.... facebook/Grassroots-Equine-Essentials-109575231658747 Gypsy Horses of Horn Hill............................................. facebook.com/gypsyhorsesofhornhill Hi-Hog Farm & Ranch Equipment........................................................................ hi-hog.com Horse Expo Canada.........................................................................................horseexpo.ca Horse In Hand Ranch Ltd.................................................................. horseinhandranch.com Paradise Acres Ranch.......................................................................paradiseacresranch.net Purina Canada.................................................................................................. equipurina.ca Rein It In................................................................................................................. reinitin.ca Ride Fit Equestrian..................................................................................................ridefit.net Rivers Edge Camping Association.......................................................... riversedgecamp.org Rocking Heart Ranch Ltd.............................................................. rockingheartranchltd.com Rocking Star Ranch Equine.................................................................... rockingstarranch.ca Royal T Equestrian Inc................................................................. royaltequestrian.webs.com Summer Sonnett Stables............................................. facebook.com/summersonnetstables Sunglade Ranch Ltd o/a BioEquine.com........................................................ bioequine.com Takoda Equine Therapy.................................................................takodaequinetherapy.com TD Equine Veterinary Group......................................................................... tdequinevet.com The Horse Store ...........................................................................................horsestore.com The School of Equine Massage and Rehabilitation Therapies......................... equinerehab.ca The Tack Collector Ltd.............................................................................. thetackcollector.ca Ti-DOX Enviro Tek LTD............................................................................................ ti-dox.ca Tyrrell Riding Academy Inc...............................................................tyrrellridingacademy.com Western Horse Review....................................................................westernhorsereview.com Whispering Equine Bodyworks Inc..................................... whisperingequinebodyworks.com Whitemud Equine Learning Centre Association........................................................ welca.ca Wise Equestrian..............................................................................wiseequestrianrentals.net Y’Knott Ranch Inc........................................................... facebook.com/YKnottNorthAlberta

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