Ohio Equestrian Directory 2020 Issue

OHIO EQUESTRIAN

The Complete Guide for Horse Enthusiasts • 2020

DIRECTORY

OhioEquestrianDirectory.com

Born for This

The Story of Luke Gingerich

Secretariat, TWICE the Heart

Ohio’s Beautiful Bridle Trails, A Labor of Love

Entering the Culture of Horse and Herd

DIRECTORY

2020 OHIO EQUESTRIAN TA BLE OF CON T EN TS 14

Ohio’s Beautiful Bridle Trails A Labor of Love for OHC Members

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Born for This The Story of Luke Gingerich

Carl’s Place 66 “Big Enough to Serve

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Secretariat, TWICE the Heart Veterinarian Swerczek Shares the Untold Story

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Buying Your First Horse

Ohio Equestrian Style

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the 60 Entering Culture of Horse

and Herd: Human Guests in a Herd of Horses

You, Small Enough to Need You”

Ohio Equestrian Dining

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NODA is GOLDEN! Northern Ohio Dressage Association’s 50th Anniversary Ohio Equestrian Business Directory

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Secretariat

Going Green Has Never Been Easier A Natural Approach to Horse Care.................................................................. 7 Ration Balancers and Fat Supplements – ONE or BOTH?........................8 Planning for an Eco-Friendly Equine Property.........................................

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Grazing Muzzles as Tools in Pasture Management................................. 21 Show Ring Ready - Grooming Tips for Your Next Horse Show!.......... 25 What IS an Equine Appraiser and Why Would I Need One?................ 29 Does My Horse Need A Float?.........................................................................39 YEDA – The Fun and Excitement of Western Equestrian Sport…Without the Expense!....................................................51 Spotting Warning Signs of Problems in Horses........................................ 81 Alphabet Soup: Understanding EMS and PPID In Our Equine Companions................................................................ 85 Is an Instant Horse Barn on Your Horizon?.............................................. 97 2

OHIO EQUESTRIAN DIRECTORY 2020

Secretariat is without question the greatest racehorse in history. Although, he has been gone for three decades, October 2019 marking the thirty-year anniversary of his death, fans’ intrigue over his incredible story has never died. There is another story, however, that has been untold until now. Dr. Thomas Swerczek, DVM, Ph.D., the veterinarian who discovered the secret to “Big Red’s” success – his incredibly large heart, opens up for the first time, sharing memories of the famous horse and the lifetime of research that followed, dedicated to Secretariat’s legacy.

We are honored to present Secretariat, TWICE the Heart.

Photo at Claiborne Farm in early retirement years - Courtesy of Secretariat.com

ABOUT THE COVER Luke Gingerich, of Plain City, Ohio, with his Quarter Horses, Rio and Chloe. Luke has had a lifelong love of horses, begging his parents to buy him a pony at the age of ten. Fast forward ten plus years and he has made a name for himself in the world of reining and ranch versatility, specializing in liberty horsemanship, offering clinics, demos, and private lessons across the country. We are grateful he agreed to share his journey in his own words, in Born for This, The Story of Luke Gingerich. Photo Courtesy of Lori Spellman Photography

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2020 OHIO EQUESTRIAN DIRECTORY 3

Welcome to the 2020 issue of Ohio Equestrian Directory!

Ohio Equestrian Directory was created for YOU owners, riders, professionals and businesses of all disciplines - to help you connect within the local horse community. More than just a business directory, it also features content on trending topics, the best practices and innovators in the industry, plus tips from the pros.

In response to the overwhelming interest from our equestrian friends in the Bluegrass we are proud to announce the premiere issue of the 2020 Kentucky Equestrian Directory!

It is with much gratitude that we present you with this new issue.

Erika and Enso

Our cover story in Kentucky Equestrian Directory was so special we wanted to share it with Ohio equestrians too! Secretariat, TWICE the Heart features the story of Dr. Thomas Swerczek, DVM, Ph.D., the veterinarian who discovered the legendary racehorse’s secret to his success – his unbelievably large heart! Never one to seek the spotlight, Dr. Swerczek, shares the untold story of that historic day thirty years ago, what actually transpired during the necropsy (autopsy), and how it inspired him to devote a lifetime of research to diet and nutrition in horses. His hope in sharing his discoveries, especially those relating to laminitis, the illness causing Secretariat’s premature death, is to help improve the health of horses as owners choose to implement simple changes in their horse care protocols.

Ohio equestrians have access to over 1,800 miles of the most beautiful bridle trails in the country. Many, however, may be unaware of the thousands of volunteers who work tirelessly to protect and maintain these state treasures. Ohio’s Beautiful Bridle Trails, A Labor of Love for OHC Members features the history, mission, and benefits of membership in the Ohio Horseman’s Council. Enjoy learning more about this great organization, and happy trails!

Horses have so much more to offer us than just a ride down trail. They are naturally wired to help us connect to our deeper, truer selves, as they live in the here and now, and without agenda.

Entering the Culture of Horse and Herd describes horses’ unique ability to mirror our emotions and help us be more “present”, making them perfect therapy partners for personal healing. It also explains how observing and interacting with herd dynamics can translate into enhanced leadership skills.

Special thanks to the equestrians who generously shared their stories and the businesses that enthusiastically supported this issue!

We hope you find this to be an invaluable resource and ask you to please support our advertisers, without whom this complimentary directory would not be possible.

–Erika Milenkovich, Publisher, Ohio Equestrian Directory/Kentucky Equestrian Directory We are passionate about our planet.

For every page we print, we replant trees!

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OHIO EQUESTRIAN DIRECTORY 2020

PUBLISHER Erika Milenkovich ART DIRECTOR/ PRODUCTION MANAGER Christine Hahn COPY/CONTENT EDITOR Linda Urban PUBLIC RELATIONS/ COMMUNICATIONS CONSULTANT Rayna Henry

When I asked Luke Gingerich if there was a writer inside of him, and he replied, “I don’t know ma’am, I just write from the heart,” I knew he was the one to write his story. Luke was gracious enough to take on the challenge and put his “heart” into words.

Not only is he an intuitive, skilled natural horseman, but also kind-hearted and humble. One cannot help but feel his heart in every aspect of his horsemanship. An admittedly shy person, Luke has had to overcome his own obstacles and fears to speak publicly, teach clinics, and help others learn to build relationships with their horses based on communication and respect. Luke’s career has been on an upward trajectory over the past year, landing him a coveted spot in the 2019 Equine Affaire’s performance of Fantasia. I believe I speak for many spectators when I say that Luke and Rio’s liberty routine and bridleless riding brought down the house that night! We are so proud to feature Luke, Rio and Chloe on our cover, and his personal journey in what is now the title of Chloe’s theme song, “Born for This", The Story of Luke Gingerich.

OHIO EQUESTRIAN

DIRECTORY

Photo by Jessa Janes Photography

From the publisher

FEATURED WRITERS Mandy Boggs Sarah E. Coleman Luke Gingerich Regina Sacha-Ujczo Jackie Stevenson, MSSA, LISW, BCC CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Nikki Alvin-Smith Sara Ballinger Tammy Crouthamel GG Equine Gian P. Gargiulo, DVM Liv Gude Lisa Kiley Nettie Liburt, Ph.D., PAS Tiffany McDermott Thomas E. Shaw, DVM, Buckeye Veterinary Service Ric Weitzel John Robert Williams PHOTOGRAPHERS Jessa Janes, Paradox Photography Lori Spellman Photography BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Pred Milenkovich DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Peggy Dunkel ADVERTISING Info@OhioEquestrianDirectory.com 440-668-2812 OHIO EQUESTRIAN DIRECTORY is owned by Ohio Equestrian Directory is published annually by ENSO Media Group, Inc. PO Box 470603, Cleveland, OH 44147 Phone: 440 668-2812 info@ohioequestriandirectory.com www.OhioEquestrianDirectory.com Ohio Equestrian Directory assumes no responsibility for the claims made in advertisements. The views expressed in editorial content are those of the author, obtained from sources believed to be reliable, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of Ohio Equestrian Directory. Neither the Publisher, Editor, authors or any other party associated with this publication shall be responsible for any errors, omissions, or claims for damages arising from use of the information contained herein. Reproduction of articles is not permitted without written consent from Ohio Equestrian Directory or ENSO Media Group, Inc. Ohio Equestrian Directory and Ohio Equestrian are registered trade names owned by ENSO Media Group, Inc. under the laws of the State of Ohio governing registered trade names and trademarks.

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OHIO EQUESTRIAN DIRECTORY 2020

Going Green Has Never Been Easier A Natural Approach to Horse Care That’s Good For You, Your Horse, and Your Planet

By John Robert Williams

Laura with Dex (owner, Kim Andrews) Making choices to keep ourselves, horses, and our environment safe by using non-toxic equine care products can sometimes be a daunting task. Part of this dilemma is deciding which natural and nontoxic products to use, based on their efficacy, cost, and availability.

Luckily, Guaranteed Horse Products is revolutionizing the fly spray industry with their Fly Bye! Plus formula.

Want to buy a fly spray that is non-toxic, biodegradable, and cruelty-free? Look no further, as this company has an amazing product that really works!

Flies, mosquitoes, gnats, and ticks have been the Achilles heel of horse owners and equine

enthusiasts for decades.

Traditionally, products utilizing harmful chemicals have been used to combat these pests. Unfortunately, with that comes the price of toxic chemicals being absorbed by our horses and the horse owners using them. Not to mention the environmental effects.

Now there is an effective, non-toxic alternative.

Fly Bye! Plus utilizes a proprietary soy-based formula that works on a molecular level. What does that mean? The soy formula disrupts the carbon chain in the fly’s exoskeleton. When the horse is sprayed, the fly comes near, feels pressure in its exoskeleton and moves away. Additionally, geranium oil, another very effective

natural insect repellent is integrated into the formula, providing a powerful combo of defense against most other horse-harassing insects. Fly Bye! Plus utilizes two systems in one product to mitigate flies, mosquitoes, gnats and ticks. And all without harmful chemicals!

Guaranteed Horse Products was founded by Laura Gentile. An avid rider and equine enthusiast, Laura leveraged her biology background to create a toxin-free fly spray for her own horse. What began as a fly spray used for personal use, quickly developed into a company whose ethics are deeply rooted in horse, human, and earth stewardship. Fly Bye! Plus is now sold internationally

Photo by Photo 243

to discerning horse owners seeking to purchase an effective, environmentally conscious fly spray that is safe for horses, humans, and our earth. Laura’s inspiration is realized by Guaranteed Horse Products’ motto, “Love your horse, Love your Planet”.

Innovative, original, and always ahead of the ever changing equine personal care landscape, Guaranteed Horse Products’ line of non-toxic, cruelty-free, all natural products is redefining how we keep our horses healthy and happy.

To learn more about this trendsetting and inspirational company check out their website at www. guaranteedhorseproducts. com. ◆

2020 OHIO EQUESTRIAN DIRECTORY 7

Ration Balancers and Fat Supplements — ONE or BOTH?

by Dr. Nettie Liburt, PAS

There is certainly no shortage of dietary supplements on the market these days. Two key tools for the feed room include ration balancers and fat supplements. How does a horse owner know which to choose? Read on!

Ration Balancers – Nutrients Without Excess Calories

First of all, what is a ration balancer? It looks like a grain concentrate, typically in pellet form, but it is really a concentrated vitamin, mineral, and protein supplement that is low in calories and sugar.

It is designed to balance a forage-based or lowgrain diet. Think of a ration balancer as the equine equivalent of a multivitamin that a human would take. The feeding rate of a good quality ration balancer is low and depends on a horse or pony’s ideal body weight, and how the manufacturer formulated the product. It’s an excellent option for ensuring a horse’s nutrient needs are being met without adding excessive calories, and even helps to manage weight.

When a feed company designs and manufactures a given product, that product is fortified with vitamins and minerals. Some horses get some grain, but the amount of grain they get may be below the manufacturer’s

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OHIO EQUESTRIAN DIRECTORY 2020

recommendations. The product is formulated to be fed to a horse at a certain rate For example, typical feeding directions might say to provide one-half pound of the product for every 100 pounds the horse or pony weighs. For a 1,000 pound horse, in this example, this equates to five pounds of feed. In this way, a horse’s minimum daily vitamin and mineral needs are being met while providing extra energy (calories) and protein.

What if that horse only gets two pounds of that feed but is maintaining weight just fine? The horse isn’t getting the full value of the vitamin and mineral package in the feed product and may be missing some nutrients. A ration balancer can be added to fill in the gaps without adding excess energy that the horse doesn’t need.

Take, for example, a horse receiving a grain ration according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. However, the quality of the forage source may be poor, with insufficient amino acids to build complete proteins. In this case, adding a ration balancer will help supply these amino acids that poor quality forage can’t provide, without overdoing grain concentrate.

Fat Supplements – Skin, Coat and Weight Fat supplements have grown in popularity in the

Photo courtesy of Dr. Nettie Liburt

21st century. Research has shown that horses do quite well digesting fat when given time to adjust. Fat contains nine kilocalories per gram (kcal/g) compared to a carbohydrate, which only contains four kcal/g. In addition, fat is metabolized slowly and provides energy release over a longer period of time compared to a carbohydrate. Research has also suggested that horses consuming a high-fat diet were less reactive to new stimuli compared to horses on a high carbohydrate diet. This is the reason that “hot” or spooky horses

often benefit from a higher fat, lower carb diet.

Fat is also an excellent way to add calories to a horse’s diet without having to increase the amount of grain concentrate. Horses evolved eating small, frequent meals, not large concentrate meals, so keeping meal size small (no more than 0.5% of body weight at a time) is important. When a horse needs to gain weight or is a hard keeper, this can be a challenge. Adding a high quality fat supplement can help solve this problem by providing calories without a huge meal size.

Photo by Jill Prov

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OHIO EQUESTRIAN DIRECTORY 2020

Planning for an Eco-Friendly Equine Property

by Lisa Kiley

Managing horse properties can be a challenge. Keeping pastures lush and paddocks mud free requires preparation and maintenance. Sometimes, it can be overwhelming to determine the correct steps to take. Fortunately, there are experts that can help, like Clay Nelson, of Sustainable Stables, LLC. After spending over a decade working with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency as an Environmental Chemist, he is now designing properties that are ecofriendly and healthy for horses.

“Getting to know the land you are working with is very important,” Nelson explained. He urges horse owners to educate themselves, “By being a good steward of the land, you will be able to avoid common mistakes that can make farm management difficult.”

This starts with knowing what type of soil you have.

Soil surveys can be done economically through the United States Geological Survey (usgs.gov). Nelson shared, “There can be several types of soil on one piece of property and the type of soil will have an impact on how you set up your barn and pastures.”

Another important consideration is topography.

Nelson advised, “Ideally, you want the barn to be at the highest and driest area of the property. This will also dictate the best areas for turnouts and pastures. You want to work with nature, not against it.”

“It’s important to understand the impact horses

have on the environment.

We run into issues because we keep horses on much smaller tracts of land than they would need as natural grazers.” Nelson finds that the number of horses a property can sustain is more linked to management than acreage.

“The high cost and limited availability of land is driving the need for better practices.”

What is a common mistake that Nelson witnesses?

“Particularly in a new build, people will disproportionately invest most of their budget in the barn and then pastures become an afterthought.”

Instead, he urges that the number one priority should be an all-weather lot for turn out. “This will ensure that horses can spend more time outside, while protecting the pasture from being ruined.”

Next, Nelson recommends designing pastures that can be rotated by using cross fencing to make several smaller pastures. “If the horses get along, it is better

to move them together in rotation as a herd. Ideally, they should be rotated every couple of weeks depending on the number of horses and the size of the pasture.”

Nelson added, “Horses will still need to be provided with shelter, but by investing in a dry lot and planned pastures first, it will enhance the health of the animal and maintain pleasant conditions where they can thrive.”

There are a few tools that Nelson uses in his project planning. “I have been using recycled plastic products such as Paddock Slabs and Mud Grid. Paddock Slabs work great for dry lots. The ground will need to be prepared and then they can be easily put down and back filled with a substrate. The stability prevents movement and sinking of the fill materials.”

When it comes to properties that may be trying to fix a muddy situation, the Mud Grids are what

he suggests. “It’s like no product I have ever worked with because you can lay it right over the mud.”

Nelson continued, “I think everyone should keep some grids on hand, there are so many applications around a farm and it can be moved and re-used, it’s great for any high traffic area.”

Nelson concluded, “Properly planning an equine property requires an upfront investment, so it can be done right the first time. By developing a direct connection with the land and implementing good land management practices, over time you will be saving money and time. There isn’t a “one size fits all” solution, there are many things that must work together to create a property that is both healthy for your horse and good for the environment.”

For more information: cashmans.com ◆ Lisa Kiley is a lifelong horse enthusiast who has worked in the equine industry and shown horses for many years. She is a proud member of Cashmans Horse Equipment Team.

Cashmans Horse Equipment, located in Delaware, OH has been providing top quality products to the equine & agricultural community for 40 years. They have a commitment to sourcing environmentally conscious products. Cashmans strives to educate customers and provide products that put safety first so you can enjoy more time with the horses you love.

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2020 FE AT U R E

Ohio’s Beautiful Bridle Trails A Labor of Love for OHC Members

Riders on Lake Erie at the annual Cleveland Mounted Police Fundraiser

by Mandy Boggs

F

or their 50th birthdays, Mary Alice Kuhn, and her husband, Steve, decided to accomplish something on their bucket list - to ride horses on a dude ranch out West. The only problem?

Neither one of them knew how to ride a horse. As they say, the rest is history. Today, they live on 100-acres in Ohio with horses of their own, sharing their new found passion for trail riding every chance they get. So much so, that both Mary Alice and Steve are active members of the Ohio Horseman’s Council, the largest non-profit equine organization in the state of Ohio representing all ages of riders, disciplines, and breeds of horses.

The Ohio Horseman’s Council (OHC) was formed in 1972 by a group of riders wanting to ride on public land, sharing Ohio’s trail systems utilized by hikers and snowmobiles.

Their dedication to preserve those trails has carried on for 48 years with an average of 4,000 volunteers across 88 counties, and 65 local OHC Chapters, working diligently to protect and maintain over 1,800 miles of bridle trails across the state of Ohio. Trail systems such as Hocking State Forest, Mohican Memorial State Forest, Oak

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Photos courtesy of OHC

Openings Preserve Metro Park, Salt Fork State Park, and the Cleveland Metropark system, are just a few of the popular bridle trails across Ohio.

“We are the caretakers of our trail systems and must protect these trails for future

Service, and other local county park systems, with the labor to maintain the trails throughout the riding season. The OHC works alongside partners such as The Ohio Trails Partnership, local horse clubs and organizations, Scouts programs,

Hueston Woods State Park

generations. There is no other equine organization in the state of Ohio with as many members and volunteers as the OHC. The members volunteer their time to build and maintain trail systems around the state. There are no paid positions within the OHC,” shared Mary Alice, Director of the OHC Board, for the past seven years. “The OHC provides the land managers, such as the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, US Forest

and others to maintain Ohio’s trails.”

Further, the OHC is engaged with state leadership to continue to voice the need to support the equine industry in Ohio. “The Ohio Legislative Trails Caucus (OLTC) started in 2017, is the first of its kind in the nation at the state level,” shared Mary Alice. “The OLTC is a group of like-minded state legislators from both parties and changers of the Ohio

legislature, co-chaired by State Senator, Sean O’Brien, and State Representative, Steve Wilson. OLTC works to advocate all issues involving the development, maintenance, and preservation of all Ohio’s nonmotorized trails.”

“Horsemen Helping Horsemen” is the slogan often used and best represents the commitment the OHC offers to every rider (within Ohio and the surrounding states) sharing their passion for preserving and protecting the trails that so many equestrians enjoy throughout the year. Ohio has more than 100 separate bridle trail locations across the state, from state parks, metro parks, state forests, and other public land. Trail systems can vary, from a short half-mile trail to well over 50 miles, giving riders in all parts of the state options for all types of terrain, sightseeing, and adventures for both seasoned trail riders and those who enjoy an occasional leisurely stroll on a beautiful day.

Many horse owners and riders in Ohio are unaware of the efforts required to maintain and protect the bridle trails in the state. Aside from the ongoing battle to preserve the ability

to share many of these trails with hikers and bikers, who in some areas have pushed to eliminate sharing certain trails with horses, maintaining the trails themselves is a daunting task without anyone to do it if it were not for the OHC. Land managers have cut their funding to maintain the trails, relying on volunteers to work together and help with the ongoing work required to keep these trail systems safe and enjoyable. The volunteers with the OHC track the hours they work on the trail systems and supply these hours on a regular basis to the land managers, donating hundreds of thousands of dollars in free labor every year.

“Horseback riding on trails in Ohio is free, although you may have fees for overnight camping. There are neighboring states who charge a yearly or daily fee to ride, as well as a fee for a trail map. To keep trails free to ride and for anyone to enjoy, the public needs to know that most of the equine trails are maintained by volunteers, none of which are paid for their efforts,” explained Mary Alice.

“These same volunteers will hold fundraisers to generate revenue to make improvements to things such as trail signage, trail footing, mounting blocks, high lines and many, many more things that a rider benefits from when on the trails or at a campground.” Volunteers do everything from clearing trails, removing fallen trees, working on drainage, fixing washouts, trimming branches, and everything in between.

Every year, the OHC leadership grants money to local OHC chapters to use towards the trail systems within their region needing maintenance. Each chapter presents their project needs and must also provide a good case in order to steer funds to their project. This grant program offers equine-related projects

Hocking State Forest

to receive assistance and build relationships not only among the riders but within the local communities as well.

“There is a $5,000 Matching Grant distributed to one or more chapters, and a $750 Regional Monetary Grant awarded to a county chapter within each of the five regions,” said Mary Alice.

“Many parks have enjoyed the benefits of grant money and can be seen at places such as Alum Creek State Park in Delaware county, Honey Creek Preserve in Erie county, and Sycamore State Park in Montgomery county.

Many more trail systems have benefitted over the last 20 years that the OHC has been awarding these grants.”

Improving trail conditions can be a daunting task, especially when you consider that over 1,800 miles of these Ohio bridle trails will need “tending to” at some point, and on a fairly regular and unpredictable basis. “Things like steering water away from the trail, and adding signage or platforms for muddy areas,

is a process that occurs over time,” explained Mary Alice.

“Remember, this work is being done by volunteers. Our volunteers also hold state-wide and regional rides to show fellow equestrians the trail systems in a particular area.”

Many of these organized rides are a yearly activity organized and hosted by local OHC chapters. Riders can choose to ride on their own or within a group, and is a fun and friendly way to meet other riders and experience trails that they may not be familiar with. Local stables, 4-H clubs, pony clubs, lesson barns, show barns, and individuals with horses looking for something fun to try, can all participate in these organized rides for a firsthand look at Ohio’s beautiful bridle trail systems.

“Expect plenty of food and entertainment at these types of events. Especially the food, OHC members love to eat!”

Mary Alice chuckled. “NonOHC members are encouraged to attend these types of events.

You can come for a day or camp for a weekend. Most of these events start late in May and run through mid-October.”

Riders join OHC for various reasons such as, enjoying making new friends that share similar interests, to support Ohio’s bridle trail systems, as a way to volunteer, but also for the perk of very competitively priced Equine Liability Insurance offered to any OHC member.

“If you like to ride with a group or ride with just one another, the OHC is a great network to tap into for guidance, friendship, and equestrian camaraderie,” said Mary Alice. Joining the OHC can easily be done on their website, which offers individual, family, youth, and association memberships.

The website also offers a vast amount of information about upcoming events, the Ohio trail systems, trail maps, and how you can get involved in your local equine community

Continued on page 16

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2020 FE AT U R E Continued from page 15

or volunteer.

While many states have various bridle trails, most do not have the level of overseeing and organization, support, maintenance, or beauty that Ohio’s bridle trails offer. Whether you hit the trail on occasion for fun, or go out every weekend, one thing can be agreed upon by all equestrians in Ohio – we are so lucky to live in this beautiful state with so many opportunities to share our love of horses. All breeds, all disciplines, all levels of experience, can go out and enjoy the beauty of Ohio’s bridle trails.

For more information: ohconline.com ■ Mandy Boggs is a lifelong equestrian and animal lover,

OHC Volunteers establishing drainage to steer water away from the trail.

raised in NE Ohio. Her passions are: the Thoroughbred racing industry and aftercare programs, competing in Hunter/Jumpers on the AA rated circuit, and raising/

Mantua, Ohio

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OHIO EQUESTRIAN DIRECTORY 2020

developing quality sport-horses.

She is the Marketing Director of an international equine veterinary software company and owns Aristo Marketing, LLC, a marketing and design

firm. Mandy volunteers for numerous non-profit organizations, and enjoys spending time with the love of her life, family, horses, and her beloved Great Dane, Jax.

Cleveland Equine Clinic provides the finest ambulatory and in-patient services. From pre-purchase exams to sports medicine, and lameness services, including innovative procedures such as IRAP, Stem Cell, and PRP. Cleveland Equine Clinic also offers acupuncture, dental procedures, respiratory, reproductive, and elective surgical procedures.

We also provide a standing Hallmarq MRI for further lameness diagnostics.

Call 330-422-0040 to schedule a farm visit or out-patient visit at our facility Veterinarians

◆ Brett A. Berthold, DVM ◆ Sean T. Allison, DVM ◆ Lauren M. Fischer, DVM ◆ Kimberly R. Cutshall, DVM

◆ Corey L. Paradine, DVM ◆ Sasha N. Hill, DVM ◆ Sarah E. Varnell, DVM

www.ClevelandEquine.com

TEL: 330-422-0040 FAX: 330-422-0044 | 3340 Webb Road, Ravenna, Ohio 44266 Conveniently located near the Ohio Turnpike, I-480 and Route 44 2020 OHIO EQUESTRIAN DIRECTORY 17

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They are on a Reiner!

They are on a Reiner!

Yes, the Interscholastic Equestrian Association (IEA) Yes, the Interscholastic Equestrian Association (IEA) has kids in grades 4-12 who ride Western has kids in grades 4-12 who ride Western (and Hunt Seat and Dressage) in a draw-based format. (and Hunt Seat and Dressage) in a draw-based format.

Nearly 14,000 of them on 1,550 teams in 46 states.

Nearly 14,000 of them on 1,550 teams in 46 states.

Give your child a leg up without having to own a horse.

Give your child a leg up without having to own a horse.

CANAL CANAL WINCHESTER WINCHESTER Warrior Equestrian

Warrior Hunt Seat Equestrian and Western Hunt Western Coach: Seat Katieand Griffiths Coach: Katie Griffiths 614-214-2588 614-214-2588

CANFIELD CANFIELD Indian Run Equestrian Team

Indian Hunt SeatRun Equestrian Team Hunt Coach: Seat Mary Rich Coach: Mary Rich 330-233-3394 330-233-3394

Watkins Equestrian Watkins Equestrian Western Western Coach: Amy Watkins Coach: Amy Watkins 330-774-4572 330-774-4572

CENTERBURG CENTERBURG Sylvan Equestrian Team

Sylvan Hunt SeatEquestrian Team Hunt Coach: Seat Alisha Metcalfe Coach: Alisha Metcalfe 614-778-8967 614-778-8967

CHAGRIN CHAGRINFALLS FALLS Lyncrest Hill Equestrian Team

Lyncrest Hill Equestrian Team

Hunt Seat Hunt Seat Coach: Amy Allen Coach: Amy Allen 330-256-4732 330-256-4732

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HUNT HUNTSEAT SEAT •• WESTERN WESTERN •• DRESSAGE DRESSAGE JOIN AT RIDEIEA.ORG JOIN AT RIDEIEA.ORG OHIO EQUESTRIAN DIRECTORY 2020

CHARDON CHARDON Synergy Equestrian Team

Synergy Equestrian Team

Hunt Seat Hunt Seat Coach: Lindsay Skully Coach: Lindsay Skully 440-478-6893 440-478-6893

CHARDON

GERMANTOWN

MARENGO

Hunt Seat Coach: Lindsay Skully 440-478-6893

Hunt Seat Coach: Kelley Davis 352-538-1413

Hunt Seat and Dressage Coach: Keri Myers 330-347-9206

Synergy Equestrian Team

CINCINNATI Camargo Stables

Hunt Seat Coach: Jessica Ashmore 513-293-1760

Greak Parks Equestrian Team Hunt Seat Coach: Taylor Schrand 513-931-3057

COOLVILLE

Stonegate Equestrian Team Hunt Seat Coach: Karen Hiehle 304-482-7571

DELAWARE

Concord Equestrian Center Hunt Seat and Western Coach: Jessica Daniels 740-361-9411

Team JGPH

Western Coach: Jeff Geiger 614-332-4543

DUBLIN

Autumn Rose Equestrian Team Western Coach: Debbie Griffith 614-207-9043

FINDLAY

KM Equestrian Black/Purple Western Coach: Katie Morehead 419-306-8797

GALENA

Duncan Run Equestrian Team Hunt Seat Coach: Jennifer Hunkins 614-296-7032

FoxCreek Equestrian Team Hunt Seat Coach: Kara Zarr 614-403-0951

KB Sporthorses

Walnut Hill Equestrian Team

GRANVILLE

MILFORD

Hunt Seat Coach: Melissa Lucas 740-328-7983

Hunt Seat Coach: Erin Washburn 513-252-6004

Centerstone Stables Equestrian Team

Childress Rodgers Stables Equestrian Team

HILLIARD

NEWBURY

Hunt Seat and Western Coach: Linda Dare 614-580-2758

Hunt Seat Coach: Allison Park 440-463-6067

Dare Equestrian Team

Limerick Lane Equestrian Hunt Seat Coach: Maureen Fagan 614-332-2074

Sid Griffith Equestrian Club

Foster Equestrian

OSTRANDER

Duzan Equestrian Team Hunt Seat and Dressage Coach: Molly Wirtz 614-271-2732

Hunt Seat Coach: Allison Applegett 614-570-6389

OXFORD

HUDSON

Hunt Seat Coach: Beth Kupferle 513-652-4010

Hudson Interscholastic Equestrian Team

Hunt Seat Coach: Kimber Lea Segedy 216-870-0667

JOHNSTOWN

Empress Equestrian Team Hunt Seat Coach: Jamie Mills 614-537-0067

Fairy Tale Farm

Hunt Seat Coach: Meghan Swad 614-286-0281

Hunters Court

Honey Tree Equestrian Team

PATASKALA Bookmark Farms Equestrian Team

Hunt Seat Coach: Joan Promen 614-306-5477

West Licking District

Hunt Seat and Dressage Coach: Nancy Arledge 614-989-5717

Yinger Equestrian Team Hunt Seat Coach: Lindsay Yinger 614-348-5915

Hunt Seat Coach: Kathie Frost 614-554-7522

WESTERVILLE

LEWISBURG

Hunt Seat Coach: Colleen Holton 614-580-1548

Western Coach: Julie James 937-248-7104

© 2020 Interscholastic Equestrian Association

Sycamore Streams Equestrian

Carraway Hill

2020 OHIO EQUESTRIAN DIRECTORY 19

t s e B ‘T H E

’ ! r a e Y l l A l 23-26, 2020 apri

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OHIO EQUESTRIAN DIRECTORY 2020

Grazing Muzzles as Tools in Pasture Management

by GG Equine

Pasture management isn’t much of an issue for horse owners who are fortunate enough to have between 2 and 4 acres per horse in their herd.

Even more fortunate are those who have several fenced pastures that can be rotated to allow for a rest period. These are ideal conditions for maintaining healthy pastures.

However, the vast majority of horse owners have limited acreage and must rely on careful land stewardship to minimize the pressures placed on their land by the trampling of horses’ hooves, waste accumulation, and overgrazing.

Grazing muzzles help horses and pastures

Not only do grazing muzzles minimize the health risks of overgrazing in horses, such as obesity, colic, and laminitis, they also help ease the burden of pasture management when land is at a premium.

Grazing muzzles restrict a horse’s grass intake anywhere from 30-80%, which means that more horses can graze on fewer acres over a longer period of time. From a farm stewardship perspective, using a grazing muzzle helps preserve grass, retain better soil quality, and discourage the growth of weeds. In addition, a muzzled horse cannot strip grass to the root. Thus, a muzzle can improve pasture resilience and recovery time.

Photo courtesy of Louanne Sullivan Photography

The Wyndham Oaks experiment

grazed by muzzled versus non-muzzled horses. They turned out two sets of Stables and other boarding facilities are taking horses on identical 1.3-acre paddocks. One set of horses notice of the usefulness of wore GreenGuard Grazing grazing muzzles in pasture Muzzles, and the other management. Located in Boyds, Maryland, Wyndham did not. Borns reported Oaks is a facility that has 80 that the paddock with acres and houses 70 horses. muzzled horses maintained noticeably higher quality As picturesque as the landscape is, beauty doesn’t grass and forage variety.

As a result, the farm now feed horses. According rotates their muzzled to barn manager Sarah horses through different Borns, one of the greatest paddocks as a pasture challenges they face is finding time to rest pastures. management strategy.

Already using grazing muzzles on several of their A useful tool for horses for health reasons, pasture management Wyndham Oaks wanted to From mowing and weed find out if there was any control to soil nutrients and difference between pasture seeding, there are a number

of strategies necessary to keep pastures healthy.

Most people know about grazing muzzles for equine weight management, but they can also be a great tool for pasture management. Compared to the costs of typical pasture management practices, grazing muzzles are a comparatively minor expenditure that can make a massive difference to horses and pastures. Fit your horses with a quality grazing muzzle and you’ll be investing in both the health of your horses and the land they graze on.◆ For more information: GreenGuardEquine.com

2020 OHIO EQUESTRIAN DIRECTORY 21

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OHIO EQUESTRIAN DIRECTORY 2020

Open 8am-10pm, 7 days a week

Hinckley Equestrian Center is a family-owned

and operated full-care boarding facility situated on 50+ acres in Medina County, Ohio. This newly established 41-stall barn is located minutes from the Metroparks Bridle Trails and close to all major highways. Our full-service stable offers Hunter/ Jumper riding lessons for beginners through advanced students, training and re-schooling, leasing, clinics, and shows. This family and kid-friendly environment enables riders of all skill levels to excel and enjoy their equine experience.

2020 SHOWS DATES:

Security system and surveillance monitoring 24 hrs/day Large lighted parking lot and horse trailer parking area Friendly, courteous, experienced adult barn crew, including trainer who lives on premises 12x12 heated wash racks with hot and cold water 2 new heated, indoor riding arenas and 1 new outdoor arena w/ Martin Collins Ecotrack and CLOPF® footing

• Hunter Schooling OPHA/Up and Over

Bridle paths, Newly- designed XC course w/custom jumps and water complex

• Northeast Ohio Mini Trial Series

Heated lounge with dining area, and full kitchen

5/9, 6/27, 7/18, 10/3

9/20

1575 Ledge Road, Hinckley, Ohio 44233 1 (330) 239-6878 www.hinckleyec.com 2020 OHIO EQUESTRIAN DIRECTORY 23

32 U S E F R AT E D

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OHIO EQUESTRIAN DIRECTORY 2020

Wilmington, Ohio • wec.net •

Photo courtesy of Liv Gude

Grooming is something that should not begin in earnest just because you have a show coming up. If you already groom your horse diligently, getting ready for a show is easy. As a matter of fact, consistent good grooming habits will reap longer lasting benefits. The maintenance of a healthy coat is something that takes time - and eventually, your horse will be coming out of his stall gleaming.

Use the following “best practices for grooming” guidelines and watch your horse blossom as you put that extra layer of elbow grease on!

Get Down to the Skin

Simply brushing surface dirt from your horse’s coat isn’t enough. You must get all the way down to the skin to circulate healthy skin oils and remove excess dirt and dead skin cells.

This process encourages healthy hair growth and lays a foundation for that shiny, polished look we all want to see.

HandsOn Grooming Gloves are a great solution for really getting down to the skin surface, where healthy oils need to be distributed to encourage healthy coat growth. The flexible five-finger design gives you even more control and articulation, as opposed to a rigid curry comb that can’t curve to the intricate contours of the horse’s body.

Don’t Ignore the Hard-to-Reach Spots There’s no denying that a horse has a large body. This can make it easy to overlook spots that are difficult to reach, but shouldn’t mean

“You must get all the way down to the skin to circulate healthy skin oils and remove excess dirt and dead skin cells.”

towel is the safest way to rinse your horse’s face.

Bath time is a great opportunity to give your horse a good, deep cleaning. Using your HandsOn Gloves in a circular motion allows you to evenly distribute the shampoo or

by Liv Gude conditioner down to the Founder of Professional Equine Grooms skin to remove that builtup dirt and dander. When rinsing, keep going until to collect sweat and dirt. that you ignore those areas. the water runs clear. Using Both proper grooming and The ears, head, between the “shower” setting on the the legs, under the tail, and thorough rinsing during nozzle and spraying against bathing are key here. just above the hoof and the hair growth can help fetlock areas need grooming lift the hair and allow for an attention too. Some horses Bath Time Matters, Too all-important full rinse down don’t love having more Too much bathing can “ticklish” areas touched, so cause problems by removing to the skin. You can also use your HandsOn Gloves you need to be aware of too many natural oils from to lift the hair and allow what your horse prefers! the skin. However, baths the rinsing water to remove Use your HandsOn should still be a regular all of the dirt that it can.

Gloves to really get into part of your grooming Good grooming takes the nooks and crannies routine. But how you bathe time.

It’s not something during grooming time. makes a big difference. you can skimp on if you Since you have the separate Take the time to properly expect your horse to be use of all five fingers while wash each part of your shiny and, more importantly, wearing the Gloves, you’ll horse’s body. This includes have a healthy skin and find that you can get into their face! Many riders coat. By setting aside a those smaller or difficult-to- skip a proper face wash, proper amount of time for reach areas with ease. You especially if their horse grooming and bathing you can also vary the pressure resists getting sprayed in will see the results and used to clean your horse the face. HandsOn Gloves have a happy, gleaming to make him really enjoy offer an alternative as horse in the show ring! his grooming session. they enable you to give For more information: Watch out for sweat your horse’s face a good, ProEquineGrooms.com / build up! All of these hard gentle scrub. Combining HandsOnGloves.com ■ to reach areas are known them with a wet sponge or

Show Ring Ready Grooming Tips for Your Next Horse Show!

2020 OHIO EQUESTRIAN DIRECTORY 25

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The Equine Specialty Hospital provides advanced diagnostic, sports medicine, and surgical services for horses, mules, and donkeys of all breeds and disciplines. Board-certified surgeons provide care by appointment or emergency admission. The hospital is staffed 24 hours a day, allowing continuous monitoring of critically ill patients. You may have your veterinarian call and refer your horse, but a referral is not required for elective or emergency services.

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OHIO EQUESTRIAN DIRECTORY 2020

Water Treadmill Cold Compression Therapy Therapeutic Laser Shockwave Therapy Platelet Rich Plasma IRAP Stem Cell Therapy

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JUST AS EVERY HORSE IS UNIQUE, SO IS YOUR EQUINE OPERATION IT JUST MAKES SENSE to choose coverage that addresses your specific interests and risks. Choose additional coverages that can include protection for horses that are in your care, liability for horse show judges, computers, golf carts, non-owned tack and more.

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LIABILITY Certain horse-related activities & participants at shows, exhibitions & events Riding instruction Boarding Hay & sleigh rides Carriage & buggy rides

PROPERTY Residences and household contents Farm products and supplies Barns Tack, hay & grain Farm machinery

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Custom Designed retreats, workshops and individual coaching or therapy sessions for individuals, couples, families and organizations through experiential learning with Horses and Nature

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OHIO EQUESTRIAN DIRECTORY 2020

Encouraging you to build on personal strengths for your most promising present and future.

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What IS an Equine Appraiser and Why Would I Need One?

by Sara Ballinger SEB Equine Appraisals, LLC

Equine appraisers identify and provide valuations on horses. Why is an equine appraisal needed and who uses them? Equine appraisals are required by banks, attorneys, accountants, breed associations, estate planners, governmental agencies, insurance companies, realtors, and real estate appraisers.

Equine appraisal reports are used in bankruptcies, divorce settlements, estate settlements, tax planning (donations), partnerships, and family trusts. Equine appraisers are personal property appraisers. Personal property includes physical assets and the legal rights of ownership of tangible and intangible entities.

The most common reasons equine appraisals may be conducted are for the sales of horses, valuation for insurance purposes, and the donation of horses to nonprofit organizations. Appraisers may also be called as “expert witnesses” on the valuation of a horse in a lawsuit or contract dispute. The criteria used to assess the value of a horse may include: age, health, show records, pedigree, lameness history, and training issues. In addition, evaluators conduct extensive research on appraisals of similar horses.

Occasionally, appraisers may have to evaluate a stolen or deceased horse, in which case certain facts are assumed based upon documentation and information acquired from trainers, veterinarians, and others who have been familiar with the animal.

An equine appraiser’s job is to determine the market value of the personal property. The owner of the horse must decide the intended purpose Sarah and her horse, Wanderprinz of the appraisal, and it is the appraiser’s job to “An appraisal report clearly establish the type of valuation. An states the kind of value appraisal report Sara Ballinger clearly states being determined.” the kind of value established by the Appraisal professionals are now being determined. These requiring an independent Standards Board (ASB) may include fair market appraisal by a certified and the Uniform Standards value, replacement value, appraiser who has no of Professional Appraisal retail value, liquidation connection to the animal Practice (USPAP) to provide value, wholesale value, an unbiased opinion. Equine being appraised. A trainer or consignment value. or unlicensed appraiser appraisers are also required An appraisal report also may be persuaded to give to belong to the American describes the property Society of Equine Appraisers an unsubstantiated value being valued and details to an animal, and this bias and pass several exams the procedures used to can result in litigation. in order to be certified. estimate value. Analysis of comparable sales, Certified appraisers are Many good reasons exist trained and take an oath to estimation and analysis of for acquiring a certified income (if applicable), and follow the USPAP guidelines appraisal. The IRS requires relation of the appraisal for developing and writing a certified equine appraisal values to a specific point appraisals that are ethical, for any tax deduction in time are some of the objective, unbiased, and procedures used to estimate greater than $5,000 on a based on diligent research. donated horse. Moreover, value. Equine appraisers courts, judges, insurance are required to abide by For more information: agents, the IRS, and other a strict code of ethics as sebequineappraisals.com ■

2020 OHIO EQUESTRIAN DIRECTORY 29

2020 FE AT U R E

L

ike many horse enthusiasts, my love for horses began at a young age.

As a boy, I looked forward to visiting my grandpa’s house where I would have the chance to be around his ponies and ride in their cart. Although the rest of my family did not share my love of horses, in time they began to realize it was not just a phase, but rather only the beginning of what would become a lifelong passion.

I was ten years old when my childhood dreams came true, and my parents bought me my first pony, who I named Misty.

She was a spunky little mare and I had no clue what I was doing. We had a bit of a rocky start, but I loved her anyway.

Despite not having any interest in horses, my father was so supportive of what was important to me that he set up a pasture in our backyard, and even built a barn. In 2010, when I was just fifteen years old, he lost his long battle with cancer.

I’m forever grateful for the sacrifices he made that helped me discover my passion for the animals that would shape my life. I honestly don’t know that I would be the person that I am today, with the opportunities that I have now, if it weren’t for my dad taking that chance and giving me that opportunity.

A month after his passing, I bought my first Quarter horse. Zip was a beautiful bay ten-year-old AQHA mare who turned out to be just the therapy that I needed during such a trying time in my life. I spent so much time with her, and she was the perfect horse for me to learn with. She was always kindhearted and forgiving of all my mistakes. Zip gave me the confidence to start showing in local open Western Pleasure

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OHIO EQUESTRIAN DIRECTORY 2020

afford to spend a lot of money on sending him to a trainer.

I was going to have to put in all the work myself and learn alongside him, which in turn I found to be so much more fulfilling and rewarding. I would watch various training DVDs and then would go out and try things with Rio until I figured out what worked for us.

Reining wasn’t my only interest. I was also fascinated with liberty work. As a young boy, I would read horse books with my mother, and would dream of someday having my own horse and being able to call to him in the pasture and have him come running to meet me, Photo by Lori Spellman Photography just like they did in the stories.

While this usually wasn’t the case, in reality, it didn’t stop me from seeking out such a connection. Early on, I didn’t even know what liberty work was but I knew that I wanted my horses to want to be with me just as much as I wanted to be

by Luke Gingerich with them. However, I had no and Trail classes, introducing little gelding would change the idea how to even begin learning liberty work. me to the competitive world of course of my life.

In 2015, that changed when horse showing.

Rio was the first horse that I Not long afterwards, my had started and trained myself. I had the opportunity to meet uncle asked me to gentle a He was not straightforward like Road To The Horse Wild Card competitor, James Cooler. Not weanling that he had bred. In Zip had been. He was quirky, exchange, he offered to give me sensitive, almost too smart for only did I love seeing the liberty work he did with his horses, a share of the profits when the his own good, and not afraid but I also appreciated the fact colt was sold as a two-year-old. to express his opinion. All of that he did performance riding The young bay gelding, who this forced me to improve my as well, as it was difficult to we called Rio, wasn’t much to horsemanship. Today, looking find a trainer with the abilities look at even as he grew into a back at the beginning of our to focus on both areas. I knew I scrawny two-year-old, nor was journey together, I’m glad he he even sound. He had come made me work for it, as I would wanted to learn from him, but I lived in Ohio and, at that time, up lame from the pasture one not be the horseman that I am he was based all the way down day for unknown reasons. I now had he not challenged me in South Carolina. So that sumhad become attached to him the way he did. mer, I decided to make the long and, despite the risk, I decidFortunately, after having haul down to James’ farm on ed that there was something the winter off, in the spring special about this horse and Rio came back fully sound and Hilton Head Island, with Rio in tow, and we spent a week trainthat I could not let him go. we went back to work. I was ing with him. Watching James So, in the fall, I decided to buy interested in trying the discihim myself. At the time, I had pline of reining with him, as he and his wife, Kate, achieving such softness and willingness no idea just how much this was bred for it, but I couldn’t

Born for This The Story of Luke Gingerich

from their horses was amazing.

Seeing the refinement in their communication and how much their horses enjoyed working with them was so inspiring.

They helped me get started with Rio and after that, I was hooked. The more I learned, the more I wanted to learn.

After watching videos of her competing in bridleless reining freestyles, Stacy Westfall became another big inspiration to me. She sparked the dream of one day being able to show in Freestyle Reining at the Quarter Horse Congress myself. I loved the artistic element that came with planning a routine to music. I also wanted to challenge myself to one day show Rio, not only bridleless, but also while incorporating some of our liberty work into our run.

To do bridleless and liberty work alone in the pasture was one thing, but to be able to do this in the pressure-filled atmosphere of the Congress Freestyle would be a challenge all on its own. I believed that

the finesse, trust, and communication that this would require with my horse would be an excellent way to not only grow our relationship, but also showcase what we had built together.

So in 2016, I entered the Non Pro Freestyle at Congress with Rio. After our rehearsal that morning didn’t go so well, I was not entirely convinced that we were ready to show bridleless yet that year. My nerves were getting the best of me, and I wasn’t coping well with the pressure. Thankfully, my friends suggested that I go back in and try again without the bridle, claiming that then I would not be able to “micromanage” Rio so much. I reluctantly took their advice and, to my surprise, when I got out of his way and just let him do his thing, our ride went much more smoothly. My friends really encouraged me to show bridleless that night, but I was still hesitant. Remembering what my mentor, James Cooler,

had recently told me leading up to the show, “Your horse can’t believe in you, unless you believe in him,” I decided to trust my horse and my friends’ advice and go for it. That night, for the first time, we performed bridleless in front of a crowd.

While it didn’t go quite how I envisioned it, Rio stayed with me the whole time, and I was so proud of him.

I decided I wanted to try again the following year, and that summer I had the opportunity to meet Jesse and Stacy Westfall. They had recently moved back to Ohio and now lived not far from me. After watching Stacy’s DVDs back when I was just starting out with Rio, it was another dream come true. I jumped at the chance to take lessons with Jesse, which really helped us take our reining to a new level. The Westfalls have made such an impact, not only on my horsemanship, but my life in general.

They are some of the most genuine, caring, and talented

Photo by Shane Rux.

horsemen that I know. I am so thankful for all that they have done for me and my horses.

With Jesse as my coach, we were much better prepared as we headed to Congress in 2017.

For our routine, I decided to do a twist on the classic reining “run in”, by loping in on the ground beside Rio while he did flying lead changes at liberty.

From there, I got on and did the rest of our run bridleless.

The liberty flying lead changes have been a crowd favorite in our performances ever since.

Rio gave me a solid run that earned us Reserve Champion in the Non Pro Freestyle that year. Although the reining and liberty was my main interest I tried to change things up, for Rio’s sake, to keep things interesting for him. We had also entered the Level 1 Ranch Riding at Congress, and Rio gave me a beautiful run, placing us sixth in the class. I found that the Ranch classes improve our riding versatility and add some nice variety to the rest of what we do.

The following spring, I was so honored to be invited to ride for Stacy Westfall, in her bridleless riding clinic, with Rio, at Equine Affaire Columbus, as well as to perform at the All American Youth Horse Show. My growing commitments to my equine career meant that if we wanted to do Congress again, we would have to step up our game and go from the Non Pro division to the Open division with other professionals. Given the background that both my horse and I had come from, I was hesitant, but after a lot of thought, decided to give it a try. So we returned to Congress to compete in Open Freestyle Reining in the fall of 2018.

I put a lot of thought into the music that I use for my performances, and the

Continued on page 32 2020 OHIO EQUESTRIAN DIRECTORY 31

2020 FE AT U R E

Continued from page 31

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OHIO EQUESTRIAN DIRECTORY 2020

Photo by Pred Milenkovich

songs that resonated with me that year were “Believer” and “Whatever It Takes” by Imagine Dragons. I chose the first song because Rio has truly made me a “Believer” in so many ways. I had been the shy kid in school who didn’t have time to hang out with my friends or play sports, because I was out with my horses. I never would have imagined that I would be capable of doing public speaking, performing in front of thousands of people, or traveling the country teaching horsemanship clinics. With this horse and all that he has taught me, all of those things have not only become possible, but are reality for me. I chose the second song, “Whatever It Takes”, because I believe it fits my philosophy perfectly. If you want to reach your goals and dreams, you have to be committed enough to make the sacrifices necessary to do “Whatever It Takes” to get to where you want to be, no matter what may get in your way. Since then, it has become a sort of motto and theme song for us.

I had never been so thankful and proud of my boy, Rio, than when we were named a “Top Three Finalist” that year. That $400 investment I decided to take a chance on had certainly paid off and given back to me in so many ways. But, at eight years old, there was the question of whether Rio had given me all that he was capable of.

I had been on the fence about adding a new horse to the family for a while, but after Congress of that year, it seemed like the right time to seriously begin the search for another horse to join the team.

Before long, I met a 2017 palomino AQHA filly. She

was bred by Greg Gessner, of Strasburg, Ohio. Jesse Westfall had helped plan her breeding and was the one to suggest her to me. Jesse had told me that she was sensitive and a bit complicated, but very talented, and that he thought we would make a great team. So early in January of 2019, Tinseltowns Whizard joined my team.

She has lived up to all of those claims. Chloe, as I call her, is sweet, sassy, and incredibly smart. While she has not been easy, she has made so much progress over this past year and shows an incredible amount of potential. She quickly started to join Rio and me at demos and performances at events, including Equine Affaire, Horse World Expo, and the New Jersey State Fair.

These are not easy environments for such a young and inexperienced horse, but she has so much “heart” and “try” that she handled it well. So well, in fact, that in October she made her debut of her first entered competition at the inaugural International Liberty Horse Association Championships in Lexington, Kentucky. As I

was preparing Chloe for her own freestyle performances, I began the search for music and a theme that fit her. When I came across the song, “Born For This,” by The Score, it instantly resonated with me because I believed my own journey really paralleled the lyrics. It speaks of dealing with the criticism of others, as well as internal doubts and fears, and learning to cut through all of that noise to write your own story. It’s also about encouraging others to know they aren’t alone as they struggle and learn through their own mistakes. As Chloe and I write our story together, she is quickly showing me that she was “born for this” as she continues to grow and excel. It became her theme song, and she is certainly proving it to be true everyday!

One of the goals that I had when I brought her home was to challenge myself at a whole new level, not only giving her a solid foundation of liberty work on the ground, but also to start riding her at liberty, without the use of any tack - completely bareback and

bridleless from the beginning.

I have nothing against the use of tack, I just wanted to test the limits of what was possible when dedicating the time to develop a solid foundation of liberty work and body control on the ground first, and transferring that to riding, before transitioning to a bridle and saddle. I believed that it could really help with her education as a riding partner, but when I started riding her at the end of October, she completely surpassed my expectations.

As a result of the previous ten months of dedicated liberty work, the amount of confidence, relaxation, understanding, balance, and strength that she so beautifully carried herself with, was an amazing experience to witness and be a part of. I believe having such an introduction to this new phase of her life will really propel, not just our partnership but also her future career in reining, ranch versatility, western dressage, and anything else we may decide to do together. Regardless of what her future holds, I’m so thankful for everything this beautiful girl has already taught me.

Recently, I have started teaming Chloe up with Rio, doing liberty work with them together, and they are showing a lot of potential as a team. I’m really looking forward to having them both join me together in future performances! The three of us currently travel the country together, performing and teaching at expos and other special events. I also offer clinics and lessons, as well as online education, including an online training video library and virtual lessons. My goal is not just to inspire others, but

Photo by Circa Photography

also pay it forward, sharing what I’ve learned through my mentors and horses, by educating others so that they too can use clear, effective communication to help them reach their goals of having a strong relationship with their equine friends.

A favorite quote of mine,

by John Assaraf, is “If you’re interested, you’ll do what’s convenient, but if you’re committed, you’ll do whatever it takes.” If there is one thing that I hope sharing my story can do for anyone reading, it’s that it will be an encouragement to have the commitment and dedication to keep putting in the long, hard hours that it will take to reach your goals, whatever they may be, even if it may feel impossible due to the circumstances you may currently find yourself in. It will be worth it in the end! I am forever grateful to the horses in my life that have

taught me this lesson.

Whether we are spending hours playing and practicing at home in the pasture, or performing in a packed coliseum, they never let me forget what it took to get to where

we are today.

While I owe so much to these horses, I am so thankful for all that God has done in my life, and for giving me the passion to work with these amazing animals. They have

made me a more patient, caring, and confident person and I cannot imagine my life without them. I also want to thank the people that God has brought into my life, who have helped me get to where I am today. I am forever grateful to my mother for her unconditional love, support, encouragement, and belief in me, as well as my good friend and manager, Wendy Johnson, for her endless help and support with the challenging task of starting and running my own business. Also, to everyone else who has helped me in some way to get to where I am today, I thank you. I truly could not have done it on my own. I am so thankful to be waking up every day with the opportunity to be doing what I love, surrounded by people who support my life’s work. ■ For more information: gingerichhorsemanship.com

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OHIO EQUESTRIAN DIRECTORY 2020

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OHIO EQUESTRIAN DIRECTORY 2020

Does My Horse Need a Float?

by Gian P Gargiulo, DVM Valley Equine Dentistry

Equine Dental Abnormalities can manifest in a number of ways.

Dental issues can be as subtle as a slight resistance to the bit, or escalate to an unwillingness to eat. Many times your horse will show no signs of dental pain, but still have abnormalities present.

Regardless of where your horse is on the spectrum, their dental issues may be worse than you think.

Common signs of equine oral discomfort:

your horse will erupt up to fortyproperly and have no dental four teeth and shed twenty-four issues, can be floated every 18 deciduous teeth. The focus of months. We can extend the time dental care at this time will be between floats, because the reducing sharp enamel points teeth are not erupting as fast. and also making sure deciduous As with the previous teeth are shed at proper intervals. populations, the focus of dental It is also a crucial time to identify any teeth that are dominant, causing excessive wear on opposing teeth.

Sharp Enamel Points If your horse will be using a bit, wolf teeth should be extracted and a bit seat created.

of their horse based on how they are eating or responding to the bit. Many times I’ve examined horses that are eating normally but have significant dental issues. In my experience, a horse that is eating well tells me nothing about their dental status. Conversely, a horse that is not eating well has an extremely high chance that the issue is dental related. If you follow these age-based float intervals, you will give your horse the best chance of a life free of oral discomfort.

For more information: valleyequinedentistry.com ■

care is the removal of sharp enamel points and equilibrating the mouth. Additionally, it is crucial to identify any teeth that are becoming loose. In very basic terms, these teeth are running out of root and are not anchored into place as well as when the horse was younger. These teeth, if left untreated, will affect the stability of adjacent teeth and a cascade effect can result in multiple teeth being lost.

Unfortunately many horse owners gauge the dental needs

Dr. Gargiulo is a 2001 graduate of the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine. Since graduation Dr. Gargiulo has been an equine exclusive practitioner. He has extensive experience with a wide range of race, show and pleasure horses. In 2006 Dr. Gargiulo established Valley Equine Dentistry. The focus of his practice is to provide quality dental care to his patients while educating owners on the impact proper dental care will have on their horses well being.

• Quidding, loss of feed from mouth • Loss of body condition 8-19 yrs.

• Undigested feed particles in Horses in this manure population should be floated • Bit resistance annually. During this period the • Nasal discharge, facial swelling focus of dental care is to reduce any sharp enamel points. These As a rough guide, your horses’ points, if left untreated, will result dental needs can be assessed based on their age and amount of in painful ulcerations of cheeks and tongue. time since their last float. Below It is also important to are the three major categories I use to group horses’ dental needs equilibrate or balance the mouth, ensuring the horse is based on age: chewing efficiently and the teeth are wearing evenly.

Birth -7 yrs.

Horses in this population will need to be examined and or 20+ yrs. floated every six months. During Horses in this population, this stage of rapid development, if they’ve been maintained

Oral Ulcer

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Secretariat, TWICE the Heart Veterinarian Swerczek Shares the Untold Story

by Mandy Boggs

N

early everyone has felt it. The beat of one’s heart pounding inside their chest with a momentary pause before exhaling, as if it is the first time witnessing the iconic moment in history. The emergence of tears cascading down a cheek, while being completely immersed in disbelief despite knowing the outcome. You have seen the footage before, yet watching the greatest Thoroughbred race in history never ceases to take one’s breath away. The famous lines from CBS television announcer, Chic Anderson, “Secretariat is widening now! He is moving like a tremendous machine!” his incredulity transcending through time as he bellows, “Secretariat by 12, Secretariat by 14 lengths… an unbelievable, an amazing performance!” Secretariat won the Belmont Stakes by 31 lengths, on June 9th, 1973, obliterating track records and claiming the Triple Crown title for the first time in 25 years.

It wasn’t until his death on October 4, 1989 when perhaps one of the biggest secrets to Secretariat’s success was discovered. While many are aware of the discovery of Secretariat’s abnormally large heart, only a glimpse of that historic day and what inspired a lifetime of his legacy has been told. Thomas Swerczek, DVM, Ph.D., performed the necropsy (an autopsy performed on an animal) on Secretariat shortly after he was euthanized. Dr. Swerczek shares the untold story of that day and one of the most incredible discoveries of his career.

Secretariat’s life is more than just the story of a racehorse.

He inspired millions, shattered the dark clouds hovering over the U.S. during the Watergate scandal and the Vietnam War, with his almost godlike presence casting an extraordinary copper light of hope with every thundering step he took. The gift Secretariat shared with the world for all nineteen years of his life could not be ignored. A horse whose story began with the flip of a coin and a woman trying to preserve her ailing father’s legacy, galvanized an entire country into devoted patriotic fans of horse racing.

Secretariat was foaled on March 30th, 1970 at The Meadow Farm in Virginia. Penny Chenery left her life in Denver, Colorado in an attempt to save her ill father’s farm, despite

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Secretariat with Jockey, Ron Turcotte, Groom, Eddie Sweat and owner, Penny Chenery - Man O' War Stakes, 1973

her family’s suggestion of selling off the farm and moving on.

Unsure if the foal she now owned would ever be a winner, Penny acquired Secretariat in a coin toss, dividing up the potential offspring with mares bred to his sire, Bold Ruler.

Secretariat was a massive colt, quick to stand and nurse with a presence about him that captivated everyone at the farm from the very beginning. It has been said that Penny kept notes on their horses and foals. The note next to Secretariat’s name was simply, “Wow!’ Many would agree, Penny was the perfect owner for Secretariat. Her almost “First Lady” persona in the racing world quickly seduced thousands of new fans to the sport, becoming infatuated with Secretariat and his story. Lucien Laurin, Secretariat’s trainer, was on the brink of retirement when he joined Penny, soon clinching five of six consecutive Triple Crown wins between Secretariat and stablemate, Riva Ridge. Ron Turcotte, the jockey that basked in victory atop Secretariat’s Triple Crown wins, grew up in Canada working as a lumberjack with his father. While many have said Secretariat may have won no matter who was aboard, it seems

“Secretariat is widening now!

He is moving like a tremendous machine!”

Photos Courtesy of Secretariat.com

—Chic Anderson reaction at Belmont win.

Secretariat in the lead (left) Sham (right) - Kentucky Derby, 1973

Secretariat as a foal

inconceivable to imagine anyone other than Turcotte, wearing the iconic blue and white checkered silks, in the irons. Turcotte trusted Secretariat and respected the greatness beneath him, letting

him ascend across the finish line as if being carried by a mythological being. The story of Secretariat and his unique team hypnotized the country over the horse’s career as a two and three-year-old.

Together they won all three races of the Triple Crown in 1973, 25 years since Citation earned the title, breaking track records in each race that still stand today. They won the 99th running of the Kentucky Derby on May 5, 1973, the first horse to ever win the Derby in under 2 minutes with a time of 1:59.40. Only one other winner has come close, Monarchos in 2001, finishing at an official time of 1:59.97. Sham, Secretariat’s proclaimed rival, finished 2 ½ lengths behind Secretariat in the Derby, with an estimated time of 1:59​4/5th. In those days, races were not timed to 1/100th of a second, and non-winning times were not taken. Although he also

broke the Derby record of under two minutes, second place Sham never received recognition for yet another of his great accomplishments, overshadowed by Secretariat’s luminous glory.

Secretariat went on to win the 98th running of the Preakness Stakes on May 19, 1973 in 1:53. Over 15 million people watched the last race of the Triple Crown on television, with nearly 70,000 in attendance for the 105th running of the Belmont Stakes on June 9th, 1973.

Secretariat won in just 2:24 by an astounding 31 lengths.

His Belmont race was so incredible that even cameras with the widest lenses were unable to capture Secretariat

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Continued from page 41

and the closest horse behind him in the same shot as he crossed the wire. Being widely considered the most dominant race in the history of horse racing, the footage of that race is still nearly impossible to witness without a catch in your throat. Over five thousand bettors at the Belmont Stakes held on to their winning tickets, never cashing in on the history they held on a tiny slip of paper grasped firmly in their hands and hearts.

Secretariat’s racing record consisted of 21 starts with 16 wins, earning $1,316,808 on the track. He retired in 1973 to Claiborne Farm in Paris, Kentucky where he stood at stud until his death on October 4, 1989. He sired 653 offspring including 57 stakes winners, eventually being known as a top broodmare sire of his time.

Bennett Liebman, a New York racing official has been quoted as saying, “He was not a horse, he was Secretariat.” Secretariat has been described as absolute perfection in every way, the way God intended to make a horse. Standing at 16.2 with anatomically perfect conformation, powerful hindquarters, muscling to a rival a Greek god, ideal stride biomechanics, with a 24 foot 11 inch stride. Many found themselves at a loss for words when it came to describing the enchanting presence of Secretariat, especially those who had the opportunity to see the horse in person. Dr. Swerczek has said he has never laid eyes on as perfect a horse in his over fifty years as a veterinarian and scientist at the University of Kentucky.

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strangers into their home, eager to absorb every ounce of knowledge and history he was willing to share about that October day. Gathered in the living room of his home, Dr. Swerczek sat quietly in his chair, almost uncomfortable with the idea that someone was so interested to hear his story. Directly next to him sat a table adorned with a newspaper clipping of Secretariat preserved behind a glass frame, with a small strand of Secretariat’s hair taped in the corner. As extraordinary as it was to be welcomed into the home of Dr. Swerczek and his wife, seeing the chestnut hairs within reach was enough to make any grown adult overcome with childlike excitement.

Dr. Swerczek developed an awe-inspired respect for Secretariat just as everyone else had. He watched him on television, enthralled with every accomplishment just as the whole world had been. “I had never seen such a magnificent specimen.

Everything about him was just perfect. I was a fan just the same as the next person,” he shared.

Dr. Swerczek worked Secretariat, early retirement years at Claiborne Farm alongside the resident team Ph.D, grew up on a livestock accepted a position as an of veterinarians at Claiborne farm in Nebraska, where assistant professor at the farm as Secretariat retired from racing, transitioning to a he developed an interest in University of Kentucky, stud career. “I mostly admired nutrition and animal health.

Department of Veterinary He obtained his Doctor of Science, becoming a professor him from a distance, but I did have the opportunity to Veterinary Medicine degree in 1978. There he spent 49 be involved with some of the in 1964 from Kansas State years at the University of reproductive aspects during University. During his time Kentucky, retiring in 2018. his breeding season. I knew working in the Diagnostic He is currently Professor the horse, and knew those Laboratory and Department Emeritus in the Department over at Claiborne farm. I had of Pathology as a student, his of Veterinary Science, professors encouraged him to University of Kentucky, where actually done the necropsy on his sire, Bold Ruler, along pursue an advanced degree he has dedicated his time with thousands of other in Veterinary Pathology. He to finishing research he has horses during my career, obtained a master’s degree in passionately studied during including many prominent Nutritional Pathology, as well his career. racehorses,” he shared, “I as his Ph.D. in Comparative On a beautiful day in June, had always thought to myself Pathology from the University Dr. Swerczek and his wife, that Secretariat would be a of Connecticut. In 1969 he Mary Ann, welcomed two

great horse to preserve as a specimen. I was involved with the taxidermy horses on exhibit at The Kentucky Horse Park, so in my mind I thought Secretariat would be the perfect horse to do something like that with and preserve him for future generations to admire as we had.”

As fate would have it, Secretariat’s days were numbered and the possibility of preserving his body was not an option due to many reasons. He had developed laminitis, a painful and debilitating hoof condition, which was first diagnosed on Labor Day of 1989. By October 4th, he would be dead.

“I had heard news that Secretariat had developed laminitis, but I did not realize how quickly it progressed, nor did I realize it was so critical,” Dr. Swerczek

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Owner, Penny Chenery with Secretariat

explained. “Claiborne farm realized on the morning of October 4th that Secretariat

needed to be euthanized, but they were adamant that they wanted me to do the

necropsy and needed to confirm I was available before

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THE OFFICIAL WEBSITE CELEBRATING A RACING LEGEND

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Continued from page 43 they euthanized him. They wanted the horse to have an autopsy close by and return for a prepared burial at their farm.” They had dug the hole near his sire, Bold Ruler, and planned on him being buried in a silk-lined wooden casket.

However, they struggled to reach Dr. Swerczek over the course of the horse’s final days, so he was not aware of what was going on, or the urgency.

It is a common tradition that great racehorses have only their head (intelligence), heart (courage/spirit), and hooves (speed) buried upon their death as a way of memorializing their greatness. “When they brought Secretariat into the lab, there were 8-10 people from the farm that came with him. They all had plastic bags with them. They wanted to take every bit of Secretariat back with them to be buried,” he shared. This horse meant so much, especially to those who worked with him every day, that it was emotional and difficult for those who loved him to witness the necropsy.

And, although Dr. Swerczek performed hundreds of necropsies each year, the one he performed that day on the great Secretariat brought with it an epic sense of respect and reverence felt by everyone - not just in that laboratory room - the entire country was mourning the loss of this historic beacon of light that touched the very soul of anyone fortunate enough to come in contact with him.

“As you know, this horse was one of the most beautiful, anatomically correct horses there ever was. Normally, I would do a typical necropsy 44

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New Secretariat statue with Jockey, Ron Turcotte, aboard was unveiled at Keeneland in Nov. 2019, and now takes center stage in the traffic circle at Alexandria and Old Frankfort Pike in Lexington, KY. Sculptor, Jocelyn Russell.

Photo by Pred Milenkovich

and frankly, end up mutilating and dissecting everything needed for that exam. I was bound and determined I was not going to destroy this magnificent horse,” he said passionately.

With Secretariat being insured, a necropsy was required, despite the obvious answer of his untimely death

examined everything related to the laminitis, with no necessary reason to examine every other inch of this horse.

I just needed to conclude my findings in terms of the laminitis. When I was finishing up, Dr. Kaufman, the resident veterinarian at Claiborne Farm, asked with really just a passing curiosity,

“As you know, this horse was one of the most beautiful, anatomically correct horses there ever was... I was bound and determined I was not going to destroy this magnificent horse.”

–Dr. Swerczek being laminitis. Dr. Swerczek emphasized that Secretariat’s laminitis was the worst case he had ever seen. There was no chance of a cure or improvement, they had done the right thing for the horse by humanely euthanizing him. However, he needed to examine the kidneys, liver, and feet to confirm and satisfy the insurance company’s requirements.

“I did a surgical postmortem, everything was meticulous, as if I was performing a surgery. I

‘I wonder what his heart looks like?’” Dr. Swerczek recalled, “It had never occurred to me to even look at the heart. I was trying to leave as much of this specimen intact, it was difficult to even cut into him, to be honest, everyone idolized this horse. I don’t know if he meant it in a figurative way, as everyone always said the horse had such heart, but it sparked curiosity in us both.”

Dr. Swerczek proceeded to carefully extract the heart, setting it on the table. Both

standing there in utter silence for a moment, Dr. Kaufman finally asked, “Isn’t that awfully large?” Dr. Swerczek took a moment, and replied, “It isn’t awfully large, it is the largest heart I have ever seen.”

“I was amazed. There were no pathological abnormalities of the heart, typically found in an animal with an enlarged heart. All of the chambers were normal. There were no lesions. It was a perfect heart, everything was just bigger,” he explained, “the average Thoroughbred’s heart is about 8-9 lbs. After doing necropsies on thousands of horses, I was very accurate at knowing how much a horse’s heart would weigh just by looking at it. I estimated his heart to be 2122 lbs., nearly 2.5 times larger than the average heart. I did the necropsy on his sire, Bold Ruler, who did not have a large heart. Years later, I also performed the necropsy on Sham, Secretariat’s famous rival. Ironically, he had the second largest heart I had ever seen, at 19 lbs., and yet he was still coming in 2nd to Secretariat,” he recounted.

“I have to say, in all the years I have been performing necropsies, no horses have ever come close to either of them.”

The discovery of Secretariat’s large heart filled the gap of mystery surrounding how a horse could be so magnificent. It was the perfect combination of, well...being perfect! His large muscled body, deep chest cavity and broad girth, paired with his large heart that acted like a V8 engine in a sports car. Secretariat’s large heart enabled him to receive more oxygen, allowing his muscles to receive optimum oxygen replacement for faster recovery, therefore increasing his stamina. He continued to run faster with each stride he took due to this phenomenon. His stride length already surpassed nearly every horse on the track due to his flawless conformation. Secretariat was the exact combination of all that made the perfect racehorse.

News of Secretariat’s heart also inspired a devoted fan and researcher, Marianna Haun to discover the theory referred to as “The X-Factor.”

Although controversial, many researchers, veterinarians, and Thoroughbred breeders held credit to her theory that the genetic mutation for the large heart gene was carried on the X chromosome.

Her research led back to one specific mare called Pocahontas, foaled in 1837, which seemed to prove traceable and could not be produced by stallions.

Secretariat’s offspring held credence to this theory as he became known as a broodmare sire, due to many of his colts having mediocre success on the track, while his fillies outperformed and produced numerous winners. It has been said that approximately 28% of all Thoroughbreds carry this trait, although it is highly unlikely that there will ever

be another Secretariat.

History tends not to repeat itself when it comes to those almost poetic cornerstones of history.

Dr. Swerczek had been difficult to reach the day Secretariat was euthanized due to being with his son, Michael, who had been critically injured in an automobile accident. One did not have a cell phone in their pocket for instantaneous ways to get in touch with someone like we have today.

Secretariat’s condition had progressed so severely there was no choice but to euthanize right away to eliminate further suffering.

“By the time they reached me, I had to rush over to the lab and perform the necropsy. I was not prepared for a full diagnostic necropsy, nor did we see a need for such, we knew his condition was clearly laminitis. The full diagnostic necropsies were no longer being done at The University of Kentucky and had recently been moved to a separate diagnostic laboratory, where the majority of my equipment was located,” he explained. “I did not have my photography equipment or scales with me, it all happened so fast, within an hour of the call he was brought to the facility.”

There has been controversy over the years regarding the discovery of Secretariat’s heart and the details surrounding Dr. Swerczek not providing proof, such as photographic evidence of the heart, not having a scale for an exact weight, and not preserving the heart.

His wife, Mary Ann, quietly spoke, “my husband is being very modest, which he has always been. Our son, Michael, was critically injured and not expected to live. Tom had been going back and

Continued on page 46

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forth to the labs to do what autopsies he could on other horses, but that is also why he was not aware of what bad shape Secretariat was in. We were consumed with our son’s condition at the time. When they finally were able to reach him that day, he dropped everything to rush and do the necropsy,” her voice cracking, “he left his son, not even knowing if he would survive, to do that necropsy. That is how much this meant to him, and also why he was not prepared with having all of the necessary equipment that day. There was no time.”

A lot of opportunities at various positions and job offers presented themselves as a result of this discovery, but were turned down, as

Dr. Swerczek and his wife dedicated their lives to caring for their son. Their lives never quite returned to normal. They retrofitted their home, including adding on an addition, to bring their son home. Michael lived in a coma for 22 years before passing away. With Mary Ann being a nurse, together they took turns tirelessly caring for their son for nearly half of his career.

News got out about the discovery of Secretariat’s heart, however, it was not as widely shared as news today would be; spread across news outlets, social media, text messages, and cell phone calls. A few articles shared a brief mention of the discovery over the years, but for something one would assume could bring great fanfare, or the wing of a hospital named in Dr. Swerczek’s honor, that has

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not been the case. However, fame was not something he was after.

Dr. Swerczek’s wife shared the story of how their daughter suggested he try out for a role as an extra in the upcoming film, Secretariat, being made by Disney. “He was not into fame or recognition, so our daughter was the one that made a call suggesting he have a role in the movie.

He put on his best clothes, which, if you knew Tom, that wasn’t saying much,” she laughed, “He showed up the day of the casting and there are all these people, and every one of them has an agent. Then there is Tom, nobody knows who he is from Adam.”

Dr. Swerczek chuckled as he finished the story, “The casting director started pointing to people they wanted for the movie

...and more!

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and telling them to go to wardrobe to get clothing on that was from 15-20 years ago. They sent every person to wardrobe. Then they pointed at me and said, ‘You don’t have to go!’ I guess that says a lot about my style now doesn’t it!” Dr. Swerczek played a small role in the film, and as Mary Ann joked, “if you blinked you would miss it.”

Inspired after finding the extraordinarily large heart in Secretariat that explained his remarkable racing accomplishments, Dr. Swerczek dedicated his research with ties to nutritional and environmental effects on horses, laminitis, and fetal loss syndromes. As laminitis is a major life-threatening disease in horses, Dr. Swerczek’s research focused on nitrate toxicity as a suspected cause of laminitis,

Photo by Pred Milenkovich

2020 FE AT U R E Inspired after finding the extraordinarily large heart in Secretariat that explained his remarkable racing accomplishments, Dr. Swerczek dedicated his research with ties to nutritional and environmental effects on horses.

Dr. Swerczek and his framed copy of "Anatomy of a Champion," article published in the Lexington Herald-Leader, May 6, 1995, adorned with a lock of Secretariat's mane.

a suspected cause of the very laminitis that affected Secretariat, causing his premature death.

“The results of the necropsy on Secretariat suggested that the etiology for his lesions in the laminae of the hooves was likely related to a toxic agent.

At the time of his death, and necropsy, the nature of the suspect toxic agent was not determined,” Dr. Swerczek said, “However, my recent findings regarding the etiology of Mare Reproductive Loss Syndrome (MRLS) may provide evidence for a common cause of laminitis in horses.”

During the 1980 foaling season, MRLS and fetal loss phenomenon occurred in central Kentucky with an unusual amount of aborted foals. Epidemiological investigations revealed that the fetal losses corresponded to a late frost and freeze

that occurred on May 9, 1980, damaging late spring pastures and forages. Dr. Swerczek hypothesized that nitrate toxicity was the primary etiology for the fetal loss. Analysis of the cold-stressed pasture forages revealed changes in electrolytes, primarily a spike in potassium and nitrate, with a depletion of sodium. These imbalances were essentially like horses getting into a grain bin. With the lush pasture and clover, especially in Kentucky, his theory seemed to be proving true the more research he did over the years.

As Dr. Swerczek explained, another unprecedented spike in fetal losses occurred during the foaling season of 2001, resulting in the abortions of several thousand mares, as well as other disease syndromes in older horses that were often fatal such as lesions in the

eyes, heart, and hooves, which affected the vessels of the laminae of the hooves, resulting in laminitis.

While analyzing climatic data, he discovered that in the early fall of 1989, the same time Secretariat had developed acute signs of laminitis, sudden climatic conditions of low temperatures that could have potentially induced frost damage to pasture forages, occurred 11 days before his death on October 4th, 1989, when his condition drastically worsened to the point of needing to be euthanized almost immediately.

Because of this revelation, Dr. Swerczek now suspects Secretariat’s laminitis may have been associated with the early frost-damaged fall pastures becoming elevated in potassium, deficient in sodium, and toxic in nitrate. This combination of

electrolyte imbalances and nitrate toxicity was present in many foals and some adults that were affected and succumbed during the fetal losses that occurred with MRLS in the spring of 2001.

Dr. Swerczek was compelled to determine the reason behind these losses and how to prevent them from happening. Through his research, he has written numerous scientific papers, studies, and essays on his various findings regarding toxic nanoparticles, the link between nutrition, drastically-changing weather conditions, and the effects created when combining the two.

His findings suggest that fetal loss syndrome and laminitis can be lessened or exacerbated by the amount of nitrogenous compounds in the diet that may induce the formation of excessive

Continued on page 48

2020 OHIO EQUESTRIAN DIRECTORY 47

2020 FE AT U R E

with limiting protein, carbohydrates, and grazing Continued from page 47 time during these spikes nitrate. As he explained, in pasture nutrition levels, grazing time on high-nitrate can counteract this deadly pastures should be limited phenomenon. after frosts and freezes, even “While the topic is controversial, political, up to two weeks for coldand often unpopular, my stressed pastures to return theory has been, at least to their normal nitrate for the horses in our area levels, in the late spring and with these lush pastures, early fall. These spikes can cause pasture forage to go up that we need to eliminate the idea that overfeeding to 30% protein when these a horse will make them freezes happen. Potassium bigger, stronger, faster, or works like an antifreeze a better athlete overall,” he in plants, when a freeze explained, “People think happens, the potassium how much you feed a horse spikes to protect the plant. is how good they will be. So These spikes can throw many other factors play a off the entire nutritional balance of a horse, especially role, but proper nutrition is one of them. It is better for in pregnant mares carrying horses to have quality hay foals, and in older horses. and pasture forage, plain His research has indicated oats and salt, than loading that simple solutions such them with excessive protein, as adding loose salt to a carbohydrates, and these horse’s daily feed, along

Dr. Swerczek in his lab, 2000

lush pastures during spikes and changes in the weather.”

Insurance companies put a lot of pressure on the industry in 1980 and again in 2001 when thousands of broodmares living out on their Kentucky bluegrass pastures, were aborting their foals left and right.

There were theories believed by many veterinarians and farm owners that invasive caterpillars were to blame, after the weather spikes seemed to cause these caterpillars to “sprout” everywhere you looked.

“Quite a few veterinarians and farms were willing

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to follow my theory and suggestions on a nutrition plan for their horses, especially during these massive foal losses. Some of these large breeding farms in particular switched to feeding just oats, salt, and were conscious of the time of day their mares were on pasture during and after these frosts. Their foal losses were less than 3%, while other farms that continued to feed in their traditional ways were around 30% loss,” Dr. Swerczek shared. “I was learning from the farms not having problems. One famous farm in particular followed my theory with little to no problems, and went on to have numerous Derby winners.”

Interestingly enough, Secretariat’s jockey himself, Ron Turcotte, also shares the same theory of “less is more”. Turcotte even has a

“While the topic is controversial, political, and often unpopular, my theory has been, at least for the horses in our area with these lush pastures, that we need to eliminate the idea that overfeeding a horse will make them bigger, stronger, faster or a better athlete overall..."

–Dr. Swerczek patented type of hull free oat named after him, sold by Semican International Feed, in Canada.

Dr. Swerczek has performed thousands of necropsies over the years, using every horse as a canvas for learning, further pursuing his efforts to discover new answers to so many unknown questions.

He shared a story about how

safe bet that he has done more necropsies on horses than anyone in the world. He never expected one of the highlights of his career, and life, to be one of the most famous discoveries in horse racing’s history. ■

Mandy Boggs is a lifelong equestrian and animal lover, raised in NE Ohio. Her passions are: the Thoroughbred racing industry and aftercare programs, competing in Hunter/Jumpers on the AA rated circuit, and raising/ back in 1969, before taking developing quality sport-horses. the job at the University of She is the Marketing Director Kentucky, he mentioned the of an international equine job offer to his professors veterinary software company in Connecticut at the time, who explained that he would and owns Aristo Marketing, LLC, a marketing and design just be doing necropsies on firm. Mandy volunteers horses or livestock all day.

He thought to himself, I don’t for numerous non-profit organizations, and enjoys know if I really want to take spending time with the love of this job. Today, if he could her life, family, horses, and her count all of the necropsies beloved Great Dane, Jax. he has done, it would be a

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OHIO EQUESTRIAN DIRECTORY 2020

What is YEDA?

Youth Equestrian Development Association, Inc. (YEDA) is a program that encourages development of riders’ skills, emphasizes exposure to scholarship opportunities, and encourages making connections with college programs.

It’s hard to believe that only five short years ago this was just an idea; now YEDA teams are coast-to-coast.

The amazing growth of YEDA can be attributed to the non-stop determination of its partners to grow Western Equestrian. Partners, Ric Weitzel, Laura Smith, Debbie Arnold, and Tammy Rath had an idea to offer youth a place to show horses that was quintessentially Western in the “draw style” system.

They wanted to use the same basic principles as the AQHA, APHA, NRHA, and other stock horse breed organizations.

The four of us came together in 2015 with the simple idea of forming an organization that we believed would promote youth riding in an affordable way. We all agreed on some basics so we started a business plan and a set of rules. We finally met in a small restaurant in Columbus and approved our business model, thus YEDA was born. There were certain tenets that would become the four cornerstones of our new organization.

First, sportsmanship and transparency would guide all of our competitions, and education would be a thread sewn into all of our programs. Many of our YEDA shows offer clinics from NRHA, AQHA, and Collegiate professionals.

It was critical to have affordability for the youth and their families in order

YEDA

The Fun and Excitement of Western Equestrian Sport….

Without the Expense!

by Ric Weitzel

to introduce new people to our industry. Finally, we made sure we were securing scholarships and college recruiters at events.

When we began our shows, student riders would be placed in one of three categories: Elementary (4th and 5th grades), JR.High (6th through 8th grades), and SR High (9th through 12th grades). The 2019 season saw the beginning of our Equestrians with Disabilities (EWD) category, with two divisions: Amber (walk only) and Topaz (wall/ jog). Each division has both independent and assisted classes, and riders choose which division/class is best for them. All classes include rail work and a pattern.

We cut the expenses and hassle of finding show clothes by requiring all competitors to wear official YEDA Oxford show shirts.

Like many Western stock breed associations, our point system is based on the number of riders in a class. Riders have the option

to ride in two classes, rail and pattern. We keep our upper level riders interested by offering them “Ranch Riding”, “Horsemanship”, and “Reining” classes.

Judges use score cards for every class, made available online so student riders can read their scores and work toward improvement. Team points are earned on the highest placing riders per class, allowing coaches to focus on individual riders versus trying to guess the best ride. Students qualify for the National Championships from their work over an entire season, using their best six scores (out of ten) to qualify, resulting in less re-rides per show - a huge time saver. We have eliminated the “tiered system” of qualifying, so only the “best of the best” make it to a premier National year-end show. Teams are required to support the shows by bringing one horse for every six entries.

We have discovered that diversity of equine partners improves rider’s skills.

All YEDA student riders have access to scholarships usable toward college, trade school, or apprenticeship programs. Many businesses and organizations have sponsored our stand-alone scholarships, which we award at the YEDA Nationals. This year we are adding a “Royalty Contest” for students to become ambassadors for the programs we offer.

Another program includes Diamond Elite classes, similar to the NCEA “head to head” style of competition, giving our riders the ability to experience both types of collegiate shows.

YEDA’S “TRY IT” PROGRAM

This past season YEDA developed a “Try It” program, making it affordable to students and coaches to “try” a program without the commitment.

We began to see increased growth, and wanted everyone to be able to participate in the YEDA Nationals.

Thus, the YEDA National Championship “Invitational” show was born, offered the day before Nationals, making representation possible for every state in the country and granting student riders the opportunity to participate in the YEDA Nationals. Last year’s National Championship show saw riders from 13 states! Member and team growth has led us to expand the National Championship show to four days, moving the venue from Ohio to the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield, Illinois.This should make this seasons’ Nationals more exciting than ever.

There is no reason to wait!

Find a team and join today!

For more information: showyeda.com ■

2020 OHIO EQUESTRIAN DIRECTORY 51

All About the

Equestrian Style 2020

WESTERN STYLE! Kimonos like this floral print are very popular. Belt them over or under for different looks. Add some beads and boots to create a look for any occasion.

Turquoise Aztec print sweater features beautiful colors. Accessories include beaded necklaces, hand-painted leather earrings, and hair-on wristlet purse.

Colorful tees like this cactus print can be dressed up or down as shown here with a cardigan, trouser jeans, boots, and accessories.

Popular purse styles include hand-tooled leather, mosaic blanket and leather combinations, and hair-on leather with fringe.

Boots from Twisted X, Corral, and Ariat show the variety of colors and trims available today that all look great with jeans.

Western style suggestions courtesy of 52

OHIO EQUESTRIAN DIRECTORY 2020

Equestrian Style 2020

Red Barn Arena Ergonomic Bridle The Red Barn Arena ergonomic Bridle by KL Select is anatomically designed, specifically with the horses’ comfort in mind.

The superb design of this coat features stretch double-knit construction for an ideal weight that lays beautifully. #10032488

Our Agile Jacket is sleek and lightweight. An excellent all-season piece for the ride. #10030421

Red Barn Rachel Show Halter The NEW Red Barn Rachel Halter by KL Select is the ultimate in luxury and sophisticated style. Made in premium Italian leather, this posh leather show halter features soft extra-wide padding on the noseband and crown piece for comfort.

The mix of tech fleece and waffled mesh fleece paneling makes this premium midlayer a modern marvel. #10030533

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The Ariat® Showstopper Show Shirt. Performance jacquard fabric gives it a luxurious look and feel. #10030535

Stay comfortable and protected in the sun, including built-in SPF™ and cooling Icefil® to lower skin temperature. #10030563

ENGLISHON IT!

Equine Essentials

2020 OHIO EQUESTRIAN DIRECTORY 53

2020 FE AT U R E

Buying Your First Horse

by Tiffany McDermott

S

o, you’ve decided that you want to buy your own horse… How exciting! Now what?

Buying your first horse is one of the most exciting parts of your equestrian career.

However, buying your first horse can come with changes in your responsibilities, scheduling, and even your financial status. Here are some of the “ins and outs” of the searching, trying, and buying process.

all key components in creating a successful relationship with your future partner.

2. Consider Leasing Before Buying After developing a solid foundation, it may be a good idea to look into leasing a horse before buying one. Leasing is a fantastic way to determine whether or not you are ready for the full-time com1. Establish Your mitment of owning your own Foundation horse. A half lease is typically A common mistake people a three-day-a-week commitmake when buying their first ment. This can be the perfect horse is not being prepared amount of time to gauge if you with the knowledge they need. can handle the full responsibilHaving a solid foundation both ity of ownership, or if leasing in and out of the saddle is a is the better option for you. key component in making your Once you have made the dehorse search easier. A basic cision to buy your own horse, understanding of horse care, seek out your trainers’ advice management, and riding are and guidance to help look for elements you will want to feel the best match. It’s important confident in before taking on that you recognize strengths the responsibility of having and weaknesses in your riding your own horse. So, where do to determine what type of you start? partner is going to best suit Ensuring you are enrolled in your needs and goals. Once a proper riding lesson program you have consulted with your will be an important part in trainer, sit down and decide developing your basic knowlwhat you are looking to acedge in both riding and horse complish with your riding and care. Investing the time to your horse. Are you looking to learn about proper grooming take regular lessons? Do you and tack, as well as riding, are want to go to horse shows and 54

OHIO EQUESTRIAN DIRECTORY 2020

travel? Or would you like to do more leisure/pleasure riding?

Establishing a basis of what you enjoy will help narrow down your options in finding the right horse for you.

3. Set your budget Set a budget on what you would like to spend on your horse. Whether you have $1,000 or $100,000 to spend, make sure that you find a horse that fits you, and not just your budget.

When owning a horse of your own, it is wise to prepare for the “worst case” scenario. Horses come with a lot of expected and unexpected expenses that you need to be prepared for - if and when something does happen. So, make sure that you feel financially secure in order to be prepared for the unexpected.

You will also need to do your research on facilities and programs that best suit you and your equine partner.

Different barns with different disciplines will vary in cost for boarding. Make sure you determine a number that you are comfortable paying out regularly. Boarding facilities can range from self-care to partial care to full-care. If you

are boarding at a self or partial care facility, you may be providing your own bedding, feed, supplements, etc. You could also be responsible for barn duties, such as turnout and stall cleaning. Full care facilities usually take care of all your horses’ daily needs, including feeding, watering, turnout, etc. and will vary per facility.

4. Breaking down the Costs Initial costs- Your initial costs include: purchase cost of your horse, a Pre-Purchase Exam (this is not a necessity but highly recommended), trailering your new horse to your farm, and tack. This usually includes: a properly fitted saddle, bridle, saddle pads, girth, boots, stirrups and stirrup leathers, grooming tools, etc. Additionally, you may wish to purchase various sheets, blankets, and coolers for your horse.

Boarding- Find a boarding facility that fits your monthly budget and your training needs. Boarding can range from $200-$1,000+ a month depending on where you live and type of facility you choose.

It’s important to make sure that both you and your horse

are at a facility that best suits your care and budget needs.

Farrier- You will need to consult with a farrier for your horses’ shoeing needs. Horses usually get their feet done every 6 to 8 weeks and the cost can range from $40-$250+, depending on if your horse is barefoot and requires a “trim”, or if he wears shoes. This can fluctuate based on your area and different needs of your horse.

Vet Care- Regular veterinary visits are a necessity for every horse. You should have your vet set up both a vaccination and deworming program for your horse. Vaccinations are usually given twice a year (spring and fall), and deworming may vary - depending on the results of a fecal exam by your vet to identify the type of worm(s) present, if any. Your vet will also advise you as to the type of wormer to use and

when to worm. Additionally, most horses require an annual oral exam and possible teeth “floating” (removal of sharp points). Some horses may

require semi-annual dental exams if they have pre-existing conditions that require monitoring. The cost for all of the above-mentioned routine care can run between $400 - $500 annually. However, this does not include any “unexpected” veterinary expenses that may occur. Having a little “extra” set aside for the unknown is never a bad idea!

Extras- Remember, you will also need riding gear for yourself, like a helmet and riding boots. You may also want to invest in some breeches or riding clothes dedicated to the barn. If you are planning on continuing to grow in your riding, it is best to stay in a weekly lesson program.

If you’re looking to horse show and travel, you need to account for any training and traveling expenses. Also, keep into consideration any supplements or extra feed that your horse may need.

5. Horse Shopping Preferably with the help of a trainer, start your shopping!

Once your criteria is set (age, breed, height, etc.), put some feelers out and don’t be afraid to try out a lot of horses. Keep searching for what you want, but at the same time, be open

to trying different types of horses to help you find your perfect match. Remember that having a new partner includes a lot of growing and learning curves, so don’t hesitate to invest in your training and “getting-to-know-you” time.

6. Making the Decision When you have narrowed down your options to your top choice, it is highly recommended that you invest in a Pre-Purchase Exam as part of the initial cost of your horse.

Having a second opinion from a trainer can also help you determine whether or not the horse is going to be the perfect fit for you.

What is a PPE and why should I do one?

A PPE is otherwise known as a “Pre-Purchase Exam”. A PPE will allow your vet to completely analyze the horse by doing flexion tests, x-rays (if needed), skin and eye exams, as well as examining the overall health and conformation of the horse to help you be sure that the horse is physically suited for what you would like to do. PPE’s are always recommended. Buying your first horse can be a big investment and you want to make sure you

Continued on page 57

2020 OHIO EQUESTRIAN DIRECTORY 55

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Continued from page 55 start off on the best foot (or hoof) possible!

Once the PPE is complete, be sure to get a proper contract signed by both you and the seller to make sure you have documented proof of the ownership change. (Make sure to include all criteria on the horse, as well as what you paid for him or her, along with signatures from both parties).

7. Have Fun! Always remember that whatever route you choose to take, whether it be English or Western, competition or pleasure riding, you should always continue to have fun.

Having the privilege of owning, riding, and caring for such a beautiful animal will always be a big responsibility but, as many say, going to the barn “is an escape”. It’s the place you go to forget about everything else for a while and immerse yourself in the care of your horse. Take the time to invest

in creating a loving bond and partnership with your horse.

You will never regret it!

“A horse is the projection of peoples’ dreams about themselves — strong, powerful, beautiful

— and has the capability of giving us escape from our mundane existence.” ~ Pam Brown ■ Tiffany McDermott is an Event rider and Professional

who enjoys investing into each of her clients to help them grow their horsemanship and riding skills. She enjoys competing and bringing along young horses, being creative, and spending time with family and friends.

2020 OHIO EQUESTRIAN DIRECTORY 57

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OHIO EQUESTRIAN DIRECTORY 2020

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2020 FE AT U R E

Photo courtesy of Spirit of Leadership

Entering the Culture of Horse and Herd: Human Guests in a Herd of Horses

by Jackie Stevenson a world of mutually beneficial relationships between herd members, a world of horseplay, herd work, and shared leadership.

At our ranch humans do We strive to create, both with not have authority or priority horses and with each other, over the horses; they are not in relational alliances -positive charge, nor are they the horses’ relationships that come leaders. We are not controlling together in value, creating or dominating the horses, but mutual benefit for a common instead participating with purpose. them as equal partners. It is Here, humans are the horses’ a relationship not of power guests in the horses’ home over, but power among. In this playing field, and horses have way, people become respected, trusted, and honored guests of the home court advantage. the herd.

We enter an ancient horse The horses know that we are culture of amazing, intuitive knowledge - an instinctual people, and not horses, who have come to visit their field. consciousness to find shelter As people enter their field, and food as well as caring for the elders and young ones. It is the herd begins a process of

“Ponies, ponies, now don’t you worry, we have not come to steal your fire away. We want to fly with you across the sunrise, discover what begins each shining day.”

–John Denver

A

t Spirit of Leadership at Pebble Ledge Ranch we are human guests in a herd of horses.

Entering the culture of horse and herd, rather than bringing horses into our human culture, offers us a chance to see our own culture from a different point of view. Our way of relating to and being with horses at Pebble Ledge Ranch changes the way many people relate to horses. It also gives us the opportunity to relate to our human herd mates with more awareness and choice.

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observing them first, and then integrating them into their herd. They have compassion for humans and curiosity about us, and thus go easier on us than they would a new horse entering their pasture. We are similar to a ”visiting family” who comes for a while and leaves at the end of the day.

The visitors need to follow basic “home pasture” rules and cultural guidelines but are not held to the standard of a resident member of the horse herd.

Margaret Mead, respected anthropologist, approached entering an indigenous culture by respecting its inherent integrity. She waited patiently at the boundary of the culture for an invitation to

enter from someone within that culture. Once the invitation was offered and received, there would be an exchange of gifts. Our process at the ranch each time we enter the herd is much the same. We wait for the invitation from a horse or the herd. We pause, observe, and wait for a readiness, a “yes” from the horses and from inside ourselves, before we enter their field. The invitation from them might be a glance in our direction, or movement towards us. Perhaps we just sense from within us a gesture of welcome from them.

Venturing into the herd in a respectful and trustworthy way, we join the horses - first as guests, then as visiting members, and then, maybe, we will be invited into the herd as extended family. Our goal is to create a relational alliance as we co-create a human-horse partnership where we offer and

accept each other’s authentic presence; we begin to matter to one another and we share common ground and common good.

We take great care to prepare people before they enter the culture of the horse herd, so that they and the horses can take something of value from their experience; they can be safe physically and emotionally and can have fun, meaningful horseplay and learning. The first step is to create the best possible field conditions for developing respect in preparation for a mutually beneficial relationship between horse and human, and humanto-human.

The horses begin to relate differently to each other as they welcome new members into the herd. The people participating begin to relate differently with each other as they are invited into the herd by the horses,

and experience a culture based on interdependence and interrelationship. Paying attention to how we enter each others’ space can be an expression of respect.

We bring the possibility of a relational alliance by approaching with a mind open to respecting their ways, a heart open to engaging with compassion, and a purpose open to creating responsible relationships and actions. This embodied, real-time experience of creating the best conditions for a positive meeting with another being and that being’s culture, is directly transferable from the horse field to the home field - in our families and in our places of business - as we engage within our human herds.

“And Spirit grasped a handful of southerly wind, Blew breath over it and created the horse…

Virtue bound in the hair of the forelock, A gaze from the depths of dream, Given the power of flight without wings” – from a Bedouin Tale and Koran Blessing As we enhance our ability to create and deepen our relationships with remarkable living beings such as the majestic horse, we do so within ourselves and with others. Our relationship with the horse translates directly into life, providing professional growth and development as well as personal healing and transformation, expanding our capacity for living a meaningful life.

Human relationship with the horse can be traced back to ancient drawings captured on cave walls, and the stories

Continued on page 62

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Continued from page 61

Photo courtesy of Spirit of Leadership

and legends of ancient tribal cultures throughout the world.

Today, in our soul, the horse still prances, and our love affair with horses continues.

Horses inspire our dreams and creativity, carry us farther and faster than we can travel alone, and bring us closer to our instinctual and authentic nature. Horses enable us to explore and move beyond our previous limitations. Today, horses can guide us to find our way through the challenging terrain of our lives, toward wholeness and well-being.

Horses helping people learn and grow is a daily occurrence at Hope Meadows Foundation in rural Ohio. Through hands-on, experiential, and equine-assisted therapy and learning techniques, the lives

of both humans and horses are transformed. Hope Meadows Foundation is a non-profit organization that serves the community by acting as advocates for those with mental illness, offering EquineAssisted Psychotherapy (EAP) to children, adolescents, adults, groups, and families. Each specialized treatment team is comprised of a Mental Health Specialist, an Equine Specialist,

and one or more horses. A safe healing environment is created for groups and individuals.

They believe in a holistic approach to treatment by combining horses, life skills, and the natural environment to aid in the healing process.

Spirit of Leadership Services at Pebble Ledge Ranch are like-spirited, bringing horses and people together for learning,

An Oasis for the Adult Trail Rider and Horse – Owner, Mary Mehwald

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healing and well-being. We believe that leadership belongs to everyone and is expected of all herd members. Whether it is a military veteran, a man from a homeless shelter, women who have survived sex trafficking, young cancer survivors, abused children, or CEO’s striving to be better leaders, the horses offer care, compassion, and courage. Our human and horse herd is inclusive - everyone belongs, everyone is essential, and everyone matters.

I am a guide at Spirit of Leadership, partnering with horses to invite people into the interconnected culture and worldview of horse and herd.

Within this experience of the herd is the possibility for people to expand their perspective regarding their families, their organizations, and themselves.

They can then learn, heal, and grow - energizing the quality of their relationships, the impact of their strategies, and the

Photo by Enso Media

outcome of their decisions and actions.

Learning to be guests in a herd of horses, we learn about respect, trust, and care. We learn, in the presence of the herd, about deepening the connection to our purpose, enhancing the quality of relationships, being more of an embodied presence, and experiencing ourselves interconnected with the world.

The power of the herd comes from their culture of collective wisdom.

By engaging with the horses, we can learn how to more respectfully engage with cultures different from our own, so as not to steal the fire that sheds light on the beauty and inherent value of that culture.

We can learn from the culture of horse and herd to live in a present that is connected to a future. A future already there and waiting to take us to a higher level of humanity.

As we join the herd, we become part of that larger culture of collective wisdom and can bring that wisdom into our human herds, creating a world in which we are all proud to live.

Touching grace‌Horse hoof prints and human footprints - we walk together in harmony upon the Earth. In the awesome presence of these majestic beings, we meet ourselves in an expanded sense of freedom and awe. In relationship with horses we can discover our legacy and experience the grace of being human. ■Jackie Stevenson is the founder and CEO of Spirit of Leadership, LLC, providing coaching, leadership, and team building training and seminars for corporations and non-profit organizations.

For more information: Spirit of Leadership: spirit-ofleadership.com Hope Meadows Foundation: hopemeadowsoh.org

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Carl’s Place

“Big Enough to Serve You, Small Enough to Need You”

by Regina Sacha-Ujczo

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OHIO EQUESTRIAN DIRECTORY 2020

Carl’s Place Christmas Horse conversation, sage advice, and the “family” feel and assurance that this is an honest and forthright business. Carl is a storehouse of horse knowledge and experience, and shares his wisdom with all who may call upon him for advice. People are confident in what he says. If he doesn’t know, he will say so.

Of course, Carl prefers face-toface interaction, and when he does step away from the store, a home-to-store intercom serves as his primary technology.

Carl has no need for a smart phone or internet. He doesn’t need them to sustain his wild popularity and continuing success.

As the eldest of six children in a coal-mining Virginia town, Carl learned early the necessity and value of hard work and honest ethics. With only a sixth-grade education, he knew that his options were limited to mining or lumber. At the tender age of sixteen (yes, someone vouched for his age) he signed up to join the Army and spent his seventeenth birthday on duty in Germany. Carl admits, “I was a boy in a man's world,

Photo courtesy of Carl's Place

W

inding rural roads, farms, corn fields, and gravel driveways all lead the way to “Carl’s Place”, an unassuming former horse barn transformed into a landmark tack store treasure in Portage County, Ohio. Carl’s Place and Tack Supply has evolved over the past forty-five years to become a tack store extraordinaire!

Since its beginning in 1974 the founder and owner, Carl Taylor, has demonstrated an eye for bargains, natural sales ability, a tremendous work ethic and, most importantly, an open and honest family focused approach to life and business.

Everyone knows Carl. Well beyond Portage County, he has forged a multitude of trusted relationships and partnerships over the years. He believes that a business deal can be sealed with an “old-fashioned handshake”, treating everyone with straightforward authentic talk and storytelling humor.

People come from as far as Pennsylvania for more than just bargains on English and Western horse tack and supplies. They come for inherently more - friendship,

Carl at age 17 in Germany.

but came home a man.”

He migrated to Ohio for a better life. He married and had a son, Steve. Through the years, before founding Carl’s Place, he held several factory jobs.

Rumor is that he showed his hardworking, calloused hands to the foreman and was hired.

Although a versatile and capable factory worker, Carl always had a focus on horses and mules. They were a “constant” throughout his life. Carl states, “I always had a horse or mule in my life, even as a child.” That association proved to be his “golden ticket” to success for

starting his horse-selling and tack business.

Carl claims his business accomplishments have been based upon his “honesty, handshakes, hard work, connections, and great people.”

He proclaims that he is “smart enough to know to hire people who are smarter!” But don’t let his humble character distract you from Carl’s natural skill for buying and selling. He has entertaining stories of all subjects, and fascinating accounts demonstrating his risk-taking and keen sales eye.

Once he bought a truckload of dog toys and quickly turned the entire load around by selling them to a local dog fancier.

Another time he bought a huge box of old keys and was able to sell them “en masse” to a key maker. Carl also bought a deformed pony at an auction. He saved the pony’s life by selling it to a woman who invested in surgery at Ohio State, which gave this pony a normal life. He also recalls buying a goat for eight dollars and then reselling him for eleven. Carl sees business opportunities in the

Photo by Laurel Waples

Carl’s Place Saddle Inventory

"Carl Taylor, has demonstrated an eye for bargains, natural sales ability, a tremendous work ethic and, most importantly, an open and honest family focused approach to life and business." ordinary. He will recount these interesting stories with quick wit and glistening eyes. If you have the time, Carl has a story!

At eighty-seven years (in 2020) of age, Carl Taylor is the oldest living active tack store owner in Ohio. However, Carl is not thinking about retirement at all. In fact, his plan is to stay engaged in the business until he passes away.

Some might classify Carl as “semi”- retired, as he works in close collaboration with his granddaughter, Ashley, who plans to someday “take the reins” to continue leading the business for years to come.

Certainly, Carl’s Place is a

family affair as Carl’s only son, Steve, assists the business as well. Steve has two children, Ashley and Jessica, and Ashley definitely inherited his love for this business. In fact, she has been involved in the business all her life and actually quit college to spend valuable “learning time” with her grandfather, Carl, whom she reveres. The esteem that Ashley has for him is evident each time she speaks of him, always with great admiration and respect. She states emphatically, “Grandpa is my teacher!” She sees her role in assisting Carl with the tack store as second nature.

Continued on page 68

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2020 FE AT U R E

Continued from page 67

“It’s not work, it’s home,'' she says with a smile. Even though she is engaged to be married, she plans to remain in the area to continue her “on the job” education and eventual future management of Carl’s Place.

Carl’s Place is also blessed with another special person, Laurel Waples, who has been an integral part of the business success for the past eight years.

With Carl’s acute eye for talent, he noticed Laurel working at a local restaurant. He knew she was someone he wanted to hire and she proved him right again.

Laurel enjoys her work and is responsible for hand counting inventory, ordering, organizing, packing, and shipping (anywhere in the U.S.). Laurel states, “I enjoy working with the customers and horse products, and especially like seeing the satisfied looks on everyone’s faces.” Laurel is more family than employee.

Ashley and Laurel are using social media marketing via Facebook, and plan someday in the future to implement an online inventory system and website. However, they are committed to the continuation of the “down-home” business model. They may introduce modest technological changes but always plan to keep the feel of what makes Carl’s Place like family to workers and customers alike. Word of mouth has spread the fame of Carl’s Place far and wide. Their motto: “Big enough to serve you, small enough to need you.” says it all.

The plentiful array of inventory which envelopes you inside Carl’s Place is all paid for. As a business, Ashley states “we always pay our invoices immediately.” Through the years, Carl has extended credit to those customers who needed it. Trust is paramount.

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Photo by Laurel Waples

Carl still riding at age 85

Carl’s Place is replete with priceless pictures, mementos, and nostalgic handmade items accrued over the years. As Carl leans back in his patinaed brown leather desk chair with his loyal dog, Joe (fifteen), in his arms, he grins and says, “I’m blessed.

I also consider myself rich. As long as you have a sandwich to eat and a roof over your head you are living a rich man’s life. I am content.”

His contentment is contagious. Contagious to his family. Contagious to his workers. Contagious to his customers who enjoy a slice of old-fashioned business where everyone knows you and treats you like family!

When you travel to Carl’s Place, look for the welcoming life-size black horse statue and beckoning wagon wheel sign “Carl’s Place”. You can’t miss it.

Come visit, shop, and set a spell.

We wish many future years of health and success to Carl, and a bright future for his family and business.

“Keep on TACKing at Carl’s Place!”

Carl’s Place and Tack Supply Shop, 4927 Wilkes Road, Atwater, OH 44201, 330-3251641 ■ Regina M. Sacha-Ujczo is a USDF Award-Winning Freelance Writer and Silver Medalist who rides GP Dressage in pursuit of harmony and Dressage Excellence

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Altmeyer’s Trailer Sales is a familyowned business that has specialized in selling new and used horse trailers, utility, equipment, car hauler, and cargo trailers to customers coast-to-coast since the 1970’s.

With two locations, one in Kittanning, Pennsylvania and one in Jefferson, Ohio, Altmeyer’s take pride in offering its customers quality products and superior service in a large range of horse and livestock trailers. Our customers enjoy FREE freight between our Pennsylvania and Ohio locations. We also offer a full range of parts, service, repairs and PA state inspections.

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Buckeyevetservice@gmail.com www.Buckeyevet.org 2020 OHIO EQUESTRIAN DIRECTORY 71

Equine Essentials WWW.EQUINEESSENTIALSAVONLAKE.COM

Located in Avon Lake, Ohio. We stock excellent quality equestrian apparel and products for both horse and rider.

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@ Brave Horse Equestrian Center For other MODA schooling shows, clinics, and educational opportunities (still being developed!) please go to our website:

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tone Gate Farm is a 171 acre farm in the rolling hills of Columbiana county in NE Ohio which the Smith family calls ‘home’. The family is dedicated to the sport of ‘Eventing’ and the development of horses and riders through instruction, training, clinics and competition.

Kyle and Jackie are USEA Certified Instructors and USEF licensed officials. Kyle specializes in starting youngsters and OTTB’s but he enjoys working with all horses and riders Winter training available with Kyle at his Aiken, SC farm.

Facility Includes:

■ Cross Country courses from Intro - Preliminary ■ 2 dressage arenas ■ Sand arena approximately 200 x 150 ■ Limestone Show Jumping arena 280 x 220 ■ Mountain Trail Park ■ 70 permanent stalls ■ New 12 Stall Barn in 2020

Stone Gate Farm Hosts Numerous Competitions and Clinics Throughout the Year • Recognized Horse Trials • Mini Trials • Combined Test & Event Derby • Dressage & Trail ‘fix a ride’

• Trail Challenges • Hunter Paces • Jumper Shows & Derbies • NEW Derby Cross

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A STONE’S THROW FARM Home of ST Sporthorses Laura Kosiorek-Smith, Trainer

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Join

and Ride Through College!

Bowling Green State University, OH Coach: Katie Morehead & Leslie Janiak Case Western Reserve University, OH Coach: Camala Ross College Of Wooster, OH Coach: Karla Forrer & Brigid Cain Franciscan University, OH Coach: John McCormick Kent State University, OH Coach: Redean Sheppard & Teah Frazier Kenyon College, OH Coach: Madeline Harden Lake Erie College, OH Coach: Seth Clark & Nancy Cunningham Oberlin College, OH Coach: Ric Weitzel & Michelle Jarus The University of Akron, OH Coach: Laura Hearty & Christa Ondrey Tiffin University, OH Coach: Julie Vogel & Jenny Steinmetz

Denison University, OH Coach: Joan Promen

University of Dayton, OH Coach: Megan Cleary

University of Findlay, OH Coach: Jill Jewitt & Spencer Zimmerman

Miami University of Ohio, OH Coach: Heather Pinnick & Beth Frey

Wilmington College, OH Coach: Katherine Finkes-Turner

Ohio State University, OH Coach: Ollie Griffith & Allison Applegett

University of Cincinnati, OH Coach: Missy Jo Hollingsworth

University of Toledo, OH Coach: Donna Rothman & Randy Sparks

Ohio University, OH Coach: Arianna Mathias and Carol McQuate

Walsh University, OH Coach: Jamie Grimm-Binegar

Ohio Wesleyan University, OH Coach: Jessica Daniels

Youngstown State University, OH Coach: Amy Watkins

Otterbein University, OH Coach: Kari Briggs & Lindsay Yinger

Xavier University, OH Coach: Callie Miller Hocking College, OH Coach: Arianna Mathias

Highly praised for its structure of competition, the IHSA allows riders with various degrees of experience in the hunter and western rider disciplines to compete individually or on a team.

Competition plays a role, but student enthusiasm and team spirit are the major objectives.

Emphasis is on learning, sportsmanship and fun.

www.ihsainc.com 2020 OHIO EQUESTRIAN DIRECTORY 75

2020

FE AT U R E

T

he year 1969 was a special one. The world witnessed the first manned Moon landing with Apollo 11 and, at the same time, television audiences were introduced to the famous and transformative program of Sesame Street. On a more local level, a small group of pioneering dressage enthusiasts formed The Northern Ohio Dressage Organization (NODA) as a Group Member Organization (GMO) of the United States Dressage Federation (USDF).

Five decades later, NODA is celebrating its 50th GOLDEN Anniversary and flourishing as an organization replete with diverse educational opportunities for all of its membership. It is currently one of over 100 GMO’s in the United States and resides in the northern Ohio area of USDF Region 2, which also includes Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, West Virginia, and Wisconsin. NODA’s membership continues to grow steadily and has a current count of 318 members.

Based on information gathered from NODA’s historical archives, it is apparent that NODA’s pioneer founders were a small but dedicated group of dressage enthusiasts. Dressage was relatively unknown at that time (1969) and the original formative meeting of NODA took place at Red Raider Camp in Novelty, Ohio. Initial momentum was led by NODA’s first President, Joan Rapp, along with founding members: Lynn Fry, Suzanne Jones, Dale Lappert, Gail Patton, and Emmy Temple. Three of these members (Dale Lappert, Lynn Fry, and Gail Patton) are still active in NODA today. Other members who have remained active and were also involved in the first five years of NODA’s

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2019 NODA President Barbara Soukup astride her horse Cashero, aka, HERO

Photo by Linda Cooley

NODA is Golden!

Northern Ohio Dressage Association’s 50th Anniversary

by Regina Sacha-Ujczo development are: Charlotte Bayley, Diane Braden, Fran Cverna, Patti Ferris, Lisa Gorretta, Pat Lightbody, Mary Dana Prescott, and Dagmar Zimmerman. Countless other members have been active since the early days and affirm the value and longevity of this “grass-roots organization which has grown up into a nationwide influence.”1 According to current USDF President and forty-eight-year NODA member, Lisa Gorretta, “NODA has been the ‘GO TO’

educational organization for Dressage in Northeast Ohio since its founding in 1969.” The dedication of these original organizers was strong and, through their foresight, created an impressive laundry list of GMO “Firsts.” Gorretta recalls the following: “First Schooling Shows and Series, First structured clinics, First Recognized Shows, and First established Dressage Community.” NODA quickly drew the attention of many dressage enthusiasts and, at

one time, “Almost every serious professional was a member” recalls Gorretta.

Over the past fifty years, NODA has continued to endure and evolve. According to Membership Chair and Historian Fran Cverna, current membership stats are diverse and in 2019 include “318 members with 63% adult amateurs, 23% professionals, and an impressive 14% youth component.” Membership spans a wide spectrum of equestrian involvement ranging from weekend riders, amateur riders and competitors, professional riders and trainers, and elite Fédération Équestre Internationale, or FEI, competitors. NODA takes pride in the fact that current members also include breeders, technical delegates, judges, and even USDF and USET Board members.

Gorretta credits NODA for its part in shaping her notable roles.

“NODA is responsible for my competition career, my licensed official career, and involvement in regional and national sport governance which came out of my tenure as NODA President in the 1980s.”

“NODA was formed to promote and further interest in the understanding of dressage through education, active participation, and support of local, regional, and national dressage activities.”2 And it has. Over the years it has fulfilled this broad charter and even expanded its focus five years ago to include the new emerging Western dressage component. According to current 2019 President, Barbara Soukup, “Western dressage is fast becoming a fantastic way to introduce more people to a happy partnership with their horse, as it develops a horse working in harmony with the

rider. The gaits are free, have correct rhythm and tempo, and enhance the natural gaits of the horse. Western dressage allows the non-traditional dressage horse to enjoy all the benefits of classical dressage.” Halle Clause is NODA’s Western dressage Liaison and states, “My horse, Master the Art, has shown both classical and Western dressage. ‘Artty’ has been more comfortable and successful since we switched to Western dressage four years ago.”

Competitors appreciate the showing opportunities that NODA enables. There is a Schooling Show Series culminating with a year-end Championship Show. Most of the schooling shows are filled to capacity with two or three competition rings and often more than 120 rides.3 Popular with the youth membership, NODA offers “lead-line” classes for aspiring future dressage stars. One of NODA’s lead-line competitors, Valerie Marie Grava, often accompanies her mother, Janeen Grava, to NODA schooling shows where she participates with her pony, Serra. Grava states, “Through lead-line Valerie is gaining confidence and preparing herself for a future in dressage competition. It is just one of a myriad of reasons why being a member of NODA adds so much value to me as a local dressage professional trainer and mom.”

Each year NODA hosts a USDF/USEF Recognized Show for competitors, friends, and families. It is a two-show weekend that requires a great deal of planning as well as countless volunteers. The Recognized Show Committee works tirelessly all year to bring this show weekend to fruition.

As a non-profit organization, NODA requires a great deal of advertisers and generous sponsors to produce this event and is thankful for all levels of sponsorship as well

NODA Anatomy Seminar by USDF President, Lisa Gorretta Photo by Dee Liebenthal

as a cadre of other advertisers and supporters. The 2019 Recognized Show held in July, 2019 was made even more special with a celebration of NODA’s 50th Anniversary.

The Celebration Committee organized a “party” complete with a nostalgic slideshow, games, great food, a raffle, and music. The party culminated with a hilarious “Unmounted ‘Quazy’ Quadrille” competition where groups of NODA members pranced around the arena in formation - receiving both laughs and applause while hoping to win the grand prize!

Fifty years have passed but current NODA President Soukup asserts, “NODA is a valuable connection to the dressage world on a more comfortable grassroots level.

NODA provides members an opportunity for educational programs, clinics, and show experience in their own community, saving them travel expenses.” She states further, “NODA is a community of likeminded people all looking to improve and enjoy their horses through dressage education.”

Although a NODA member for many years, current President Soukup has been able to

witness the organization from the inside. She attests to the countless hours of planning that the various committees spend to bring the best programs for their dressage journey. She further admits, “I have a whole new appreciation for the ‘behind the scene’ activities that these great volunteers put forth!”

She invites all members to attend Board Meetings, both for transparency and to cultivate new ideas and perspectives.

Membership participation is key in this “all volunteer” non-profit organization. Each year thousands of volunteer hours are logged to enable these shows and educational programs to be successful.

Volunteerism spans board membership, committee participation, shows, clinics, workshops, silent auctions, the awards banquet, NODA Newsletter production, and website development. In fact, NODA’s website is brilliantly managed by volunteer Webmaster, Linda Cooley, and has won numerous USDF National Awards for its excellence. Everyone has a chance to contribute in a meaningful way. NODA salutes all past and present members

for their tireless and invaluable volunteer work.

Technology has also played a significant role in the evolution of NODA and the manner in which it communicates with and connects its membership.

From presidential notes to encourage membership sent in 1969 from President Rapp, to a plethora of modern-day social media (including Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Dropbox, both hard copy and electronic forms of NODA Newsletter, and an e-News series) to reach membership in an efficient and timely fashion. NODA also provides a volunteer on-line sign-up system. This evolution attests to this dynamic organization which utilizes all evolving resources to enhance communication.

An informed, involved, and active membership is vital to sustaining NODA. Current Board member, Dee Liebenthal, previously served four consecutive two-year terms as President and has been very active in vital leadership positions throughout the years.

She has and continues to spend countless hours supporting NODA. When asked “why”,

Continued on page 78

2020 OHIO EQUESTRIAN DIRECTORY 77

Photo courtesy of NODA Archives

2020 FE AT U R E

that but it has also given me more. Yes, NODA has provided me with so many educational opportunities, but truly the she responds with a large smile, friendships that I have within “Perhaps I am insane for all this the organization mean so very volunteerism, but thank God I much to me.” am married to a psychologist.

NODA is supreme at But really, I love and care about providing educational the horses and their welfare, and curricula.

Since its inception by being involved I can make NODA has brought meaningful a contribution to their wellequestrian education, beginning being through the education with the first clinic presented of the rider. The fabulous and by Lockie Richards in the Fall unintended benefit has been the of 1969, followed by one in the many wonderful friends I have Spring of 1971 by Emmy Temple. made over the past 18 years.”

Additionally, for the past fortyDee is not alone in this four years NODA has held feeling of camaraderie. In fact, programs inclusive of members many members, like eight-year and non-members alike. A member Jessica Pescatrice, small sampling of these NODA states, “NODA provides great sponsored programs includes educational programming the USDF “L” Programs, along with opportunities USDF Adult Camp, Region 2 to network with other local Emmy Temple, 1969 founding USDF/Premier Dressage Adult members.” Longtime Board member Clinic with Walter Zettl, and and Committee Chair member and “uber-volunteer”, Christine made up of people that truly love the USDF Instructor/Trainer Certificate Program. Other Thompson, declares, “NODA is the sport of dressage. I became program topics are numerous a wonderful organization that is involved in NODA because of and include: training for scribes, “ride a test,” creating musical freestyles, breeding better sport horses, controlling show nerves with a sports for all your fencing needs. psychologist, and using T’ai Chi and Yoga to improve riding.

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Sponsorship garnered through advertising and benefactors is also critical to the association’s financial security. NODA is appreciative of all support and has benefited greatly from sponsorship.

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American Games, winning a dressage team gold medal and finishing 4th individually. NODA member and USDF, USEF, and USET supporter, Betsy Juliano, owner of Havensafe Farm - with locations in Wellington, Florida and Middlefield, Ohio - is also a generous NODA benefactor.

Betsy began her riding career as a young child at Red Raider Camp. It is there she obtained solid basic horsemanship skills, was introduced to dressage, and developed a love of land conservation. When asked why she is so supportive of NODA, she states, “Hats off to those who founded NODA 50 years ago, bringing dressage education and shows to our area. Via USDF, NODA linked Northern Ohio to the rest of the country to offer even more depth of knowledge. Whether someone is starting out or advanced, our NODA has much to offer.”

Another important benefit of NODA membership includes Awards and Recognition. Each year there is an annual celebratory banquet with great food and libation, speeches, networking, and numerous year-end awards and trophies for both recognized and unrecognized shows. A plethora of ribbons and trophies are presented to incent membership spanning all levels of participation. The awards clearly demonstrate the uniqueness of membership and interests with acknowledgement of multiple disciplines as well as classical dressage - including driving, eventing, and four Western dressage trophies. Trophies also recognize a variety of horse breeds - Arabian, Thoroughbred, Baroque, Draft, American Paint, American Quarter Horse, and American Mule. There is a Vintage award for horses competing beyond fifteen years of age. There are also “riding achievement certificates” recognizing the successes of members/riders and

Photo courtesy of Sabine Walker

acknowledgement of lead-line participation. There is even a “non-riding” award which is unique and highly coveted.

It is a “Partnership Trophy” created by a long-term NODA member for her amazing “horse husband.” This is a coveted “surprise” award. It is awarded annually to a “behind the scenes” equestrian supporter.

A narrative is required for application describing the emotional, physical, and/or financial support which enables the equestrian. Truly, “it takes a village”, and these narratives are always filled with emotion, support, and sacrifice. There are plenty of tears shed by the deserving winner as well as the banquet attendees.

NODA also initiated a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2011 that both recognizes and honors individuals who have devoted countless hours of service in the pursuit of excellence both to the

not for long. NODA’s planning and organizing wheels are in motion to continue to transport NODA as a powerhouse equestrian organization determined to meet the ever-changing future needs of its varied and dedicated membership.

NODA’s 50th is a time to reflect upon the past, Enjoy the GOLDEN moment and look to the future for continued success. Northern Ohio Dressage Association is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization. For more information: Nodarider. org. ■

Fran Cverna presents Dee Liebenthal the NODA Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2019 annual awards banquet.

association and to the sport of dressage. As of 2018, this valuable award has been given to 17 well-deserving members.

NODA has demonstrated that it is a thriving, supportive, and inclusive organization

with diverse programs and membership, all coming together for the love of horse and sport. To evolve and flourish for fifty years is cause for major celebration. A time to pause, honor, and reflect. But

Information courtesy of NODA Historical Archives, Betsy Rebar Sell, Dressage Today, “Betsy Juliano; Raising the Bar for US Dressage.”updated 04.19 - Eliza Sydnor Romm.

Regina M. Sacha-Ujczo is a USDF Award-Winning Freelance Writer and Silver Medalist who rides GP Dressage in pursuit of harmony and Dressage Excellence.

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Spotting Warning Signs of Problems in Horses

by Liv Gude and Tammy Crouthamel

Horses have lots of ways to communicate with us, and it’s our job to decipher their language. Horses will show us when they are in distress. We need to read their physical signs and behaviors to get the full picture and know what is normal for each horse.

Adult Horse Vitals: Check vital signs at rest daily.

• Temperature: 99-101.5 F • Pulse: 28-44 beats per minute • Respiration: 10-24 breaths per minute • Capillary refill time at gums: 1-2 seconds; pink and moist • Listen for gut sounds Check in the Stall: • Daily manure and urine output, and the consistency, texture, and size of manure.

• Does your horse rest? Look for shavings in your horse’s tail or a flat spot in bedding.

• Is the stall messy or more tidy?

• Are his appetite and thirst normal?

Check When Grooming: • Is your horse happy and alert?

• Does he have a Body Condition score of 4-5 (ideal)?

• Does he stand squarely?

• When picking hooves, take note of how reluctant, or not, your horse is while lifting his legs.

• Digital pulses (around fetlocks) should be weak or non-existent.

• Do you notice any itchy spots on your horse?

Any flinching as you groom?

• Do you see any discharge from the eyes or nose?

Check Under saddle: • Is your horse “girthy?” A snarky reaction can mean anything from ulcers to poorly fitting tack.

• How does he behave when you start to ride? Any differences in how your horse feels over time should be noted. Same for your horse’s willingness to go forward under saddle and be comfortable in all his gaits. This is an example of your horse communicating to you about his saddle, bridle, your riding, the footing, his soundness, sore muscles, and more.

Check at Turn Out: • Does he have a routine to play a bit and then get down to eating, or is food the priority?

• Just as when he’s in a stall, notice his eating and drinking habits and manure.

• Where does your horse like to spend his time? If your pasture has hard ground, does your horse avoid it? Can you notice his gait and foot falls to monitor for soundness?

• How is his behavior with pasture mates? Does he interact, stay to himself, pace/weave, crib, or get into fights?

If that sounds like an exhausting list of things to check, take heart, as there is new technology available to help you monitor your horse 24/7.

These systems, such as Farm Jenny for Horses, allow you to notice behaviors that indicate your horse’s overall health and safety. The system includes wearable sensors that attach to your horse’s halter or to a breakaway Sensor Holder. Solar Powered Field Receivers create a network around the farm to pass your horse’s data to the cloud for analysis.

Machine Learning allows the system to learn what is normal for each horse for comparison. An app on your smart phone lets you see these trends.

Horses experiencing illness, injury, or other problems will show behavioral changes such as overall increased or decreased activity levels,

increased or decreased grazing times, changes in sleep, and more.

Daily reports give you peace of mind and help you to catch potential problems sooner. This technology allows you to get a much broader picture of your horse’s “normal” while freeing up time, energy, and worry, to do more fun horse things - like riding!

Look at the big picture.

If you see that something is off, observe his other behaviors to gather more information.

Always consult your Veterinarian, as sometimes strange behavior seems silly, but can be serious.

Consider using technology to help you keep closer tabs on your horse when you can’t be there. Your horse can’t send you a text, so it’s up to you to learn his “normal” and notice any changes.

Visit FarmJenny.com to learn more. ◆

2020 OHIO EQUESTRIAN DIRECTORY 81

CELEBRATING

56 YEARS OF EQUESTRIAN EXCELLENCE

CHAGRIN HUNTER JUMPER CLASSIC CLEVELAND METROPARKS POLO FIELD

JULY 2 – 12, 2020

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Photo courtesy of Anne Gittins

Come and Join Classical Attraction Dressage Society BRECKSVILLE STABLES 11921 Parkview Dr., Brecksville Holding schooling shows for both Classical and Western Dressage

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Sept 26th- CHAMPIONSHIP Watch our schedule for the FIRST Working Equitation Show in Northern Ohio!

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www.cadsdressage.org 2020 OHIO EQUESTRIAN DIRECTORY 83

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Photo courtesy of Buckeye Veterinary Service

Dr. Shaw and Veterinary Technician, Gail Yoak, performing a gastroscope procedure.

Alphabet Soup

Understanding EMS and PPID In Our Equine Companions

by Thomas E. Shaw DVM, Buckeye Veterinary Service

The two most prominent endocrine disorders affecting the horse population today are Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) and Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction (PPID). It is rare to pass through a barn these days and not find a member of the stable that is affected by one or both of these diseases. But despite the prevalence of these disorders in the horse community, there still remains confusion between the differentiation,

diagnosis, and treatment of these two disease processes.

A better understanding of EMS and PPID will lead to earlier recognition of these syndromes in our horse companions and ultimately improve their quality of life.

EMS is a clinical syndrome in the horse that is characterized by insulin resistance (IR) that is often accompanied by obesity. Equines that are most prone to this disease are the “easy keepers” and

ponies. EMS tends to occur in the young to middleaged horse population and the most defining physical characteristics are a prominent cresty neck and regional adiposity (fat deposits behind the shoulders and above the tail head). IR has been directly correlated with laminitis, which is an inflammatory process that can lead to a debilitating condition known as founder. Laminitis can be an excruciatingly painful process and it is therefore best to identify the risk factors prior to its development. The best treatment in this case is prevention. If you suspect that your equine may be insulin resistant it is important to make a diagnosis and institute treatment as early as possible. A diagnosis can be made through a simple blood test that detects the level of insulin in the horses’ system. Treatment for EMS is largely diet based. Horses that are insulin resistant should be managed with diets that are low in sugars, starches, and carbohydrates.

This often means restricting grazing with a grazing muzzle while on pasture and/or eliminating grass altogether depending on how they respond to treatment.

PPID was formerly referred to as Equine Cushing’s Disease. PPID is a clinical syndrome in the horse that is often associated with hirsutism (excessive hair/lack of shedding), laminitis, and weight loss/muscle wasting.

About a third of horses with this condition will also have IR. PPID arises from overactive cells in the pars intermedia of the pituitary gland. The dysfunctional region of the pituitary gland releases excessive amounts of adrenocorticotropic hormone

(ACTH), which is involved in the regulation of the stress hormone, cortisol. The up-regulation of cortisol by ACTH affects other endocrine glands in the body resulting in hormonal imbalances that produce the many outward signs of PPID (e.g., long curly hair coat, loss of topline, increased thirst and urination, laminitis, and recurrent infections). More recently, a correlation between PPID and development of indolent corneal ulcers and/or suspensory ligament desmitis has been established. In fact, these conditions can be considered to be early risk factors for the development of PPID. Diagnosis of PPID is made by detecting excessive amounts of ACTH in the blood. Treatment for PPID consists of daily administration of pergolide, a medication that helps to reduce circulating ACTH. Should you see any of the warning signs for PPID it is important to make a diagnosis so that treatment can be initiated to preserve the horses’ quality of life.

Most of the confusion between EMS and PPID arises due to the common characteristics of the diseases - like laminitis and IR. More confusing still is that many EMS horses will develop PPID in their later years. But it is important to recognize that these are two distinct disease processes and their diagnosis and treatment are different as well. The commonality that they share is that early diagnosis is key in preventing, or at least lessening, some of the debilitating side effects in order that our equine companions live as comfortable and prosperous a life as possible.

For more information: BuckeyeVet.org ◆

2020 OHIO EQUESTRIAN DIRECTORY 85

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T

he Paddock Club, located at World Equestrian Center is an expansive, beautifully decorated gathering place featuring equestrian inspired décor and original art. Open to WEC exhibitors and the public, the Paddock Club features a bar, games, flat screen TVs, a grille menu and grab n’ go food.

Dining 2020

Our chefs are big advocates for locally-sourced options.

Since the Paddock Club menu revamp in July, more than 60 percent of the menu ingredients come from within 58 miles of World Equestrian Center. At left, putting the finishing touches on Pork Belly Tacos.

The Eggplant Napoleon offers a hearty vegetarian option, perfectly filling after a day of horse showing.

The Paddock Club 4095 OH 730 Wilmington, OH 45177 88

OHIO EQUESTRIAN DIRECTORY 2020

There’s no shortage of sweets on the Paddock Club’s menu. The Hampton’s Chocolate Mousse Cake has become a favorite for many riders.

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pened in 2015, Warren’s Spirited Kitchen is excited to offer a mix of contemporary cuisine, warm hospitality, and benevolent service to you, your friends, and your family. Step inside the cozy Burton location to catch the feel of the local area.

Grab a seat around the table and enjoy one of the many handcrafted courses made with local produce, or take a seat at the bar and unwind with a flavorful drink. An upbeat and amiable atmosphere awaits you!

Also...Tuesdays are Equestrian Night Meet & Mingle Happy Hour 3-9pm!

Dessert

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2020 OHIO EQUESTRIAN DIRECTORY 89

H

orse lands are important to our American landscape. Horse lands and facilities evoke the history and culture of their particular com-

an important environmental impact, helping to protect our waterways, soil and wildlife habitat, and improve the wellbeing of our communities. Not only does the land support local tourism and recreation, it also supports a vital equine industry that contributes $1.22 billion annually to our national economy.

Here are some other important facts to consider: Alarmingly, 6,000 acres per day, or 250 acres per hour, of open space is lost to development every day in the

Alarmingly, 6,000 acres per day, or 250 acres per hour, of open space is lost to development every day in the U.S. U.S. Furthermore, it takes 28 million acres of land just to feed our nation’s current population of 7.2 million horses. If we continue on our current path, we will

If we continue on our current path, we will lack adequate land to support our horse population in as little as 15 years! lack adequate land to support our horse population in as little as 15 years! Land loss remains the single biggest threat to all equine breeds and disciplines and the equine industry at large regardless of their geography. through smart land planning, land conservation and thoughtful stewardship of the horse lands we have now.

What can horsemen, land owners and other concerned community members do? Understanding the facts and other equestrians, and talking to planning and other local decision makers will help make horse lands an integral part of your city, town, suburb or rural community.

Learn more about protecting land for horses at elcr.org. Together we can protect and preserve or equine places and spaces! ■

“Competition and training sites are slipping away, and trails are disappearing. Each year, over 2 million acres of land are lost to development. The time to act is now. Please join me in working with the Equine Land Conservation Resource.”

–Karen O’Connor, Olympian

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OHIO EQUESTRIAN DIRECTORY 2020

Lisa Barry Photography (www.Lisabarry.com)

859-455-8383, www.ELCR.org

2020 OHIO EQUESTRIAN DIRECTORY 91

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OHIO EQUESTRIAN DIRECTORY 2020

Photos courtesy of Horizon Structures

Is an Instant Horse Barn on Your Horizon?

by Nikki Alvin-Smith

The trending popularity of the modular horse barn speaks volumes about how today’s horse owner values time and convenience regarding their horse housing needs.

In many respects, a modular barn is virtually indistinguishable from a traditionally built horse barn. However, the differences are what makes prefab and modular barns especially appealing to busy, budget-conscious horse owners and trainers.

Barn sections are built within a controlled factory environment, reducing costs with efficient and standardized construction processes Raw materials are not exposed to the weather, preserving the quality and integrity of the finished barn On-site assembly of pre-built sections is a quick, “no muss - no fuss” process, usually completed within a few days Make no mistake, just because a barn is “factorybuilt” does NOT mean it’s “cookie-cutter.” A myriad of customization and design options are available to choose from: loft/no loft, L-shaped, overhangs, prefab shedrows, storage, and run-in sheds…

Create a layout tailored to your needs. Rarely are 2 barns built alike. A generous

list of Standard Features means there’s nothing extra to buy, However, a multitude of options and upgrades enable you to create the barn you’ve always dreamed of.

This makes the one-stop shopping experience with a modular barn company an affordable reality. The natural insulation of wood, the snow shedding power of metal, custom stalls, windows, and doors, loads of color choices for trim, siding, and roofing all come together to make the experience of creating your perfect horse barn a LOT of fun!

Shiny copper cupolas adorned with traditional Currier and Ives inspired trotting horse weathervanes provide a finishing touch to beautifully crafted Amish-built barns. Exterior Dutch doors, where horses enjoy fresh air and an outside view, address horse health needs while mitigating equine boredom and discouraging the development of bad behavior.

And let’s face it, who wouldn’t savor the view (along with a quick morning cuppa) from the kitchen window, of a line of horse faces greeting them from over their stall doors.

Some definite advantages of a modular built barn over stick-built, or on-site pole

barn construction, are being able to choose a reliable and proven partner for your project and nailing down the price without being hammered with unexpected cost overruns due to material substitutions, weather factors, or lack of knowledge on the part of the contractor.

Leading modular barn builders not only offer a guaranteed “to the penny” quote that includes delivery and set up - they can also provide third-party financing, a full warranty, and a wealth of advice on how to cut costs - without cutting corners - to help you stay on budget.

Those who have run a horse boarding operation, or had a barn built on site, know firsthand that when the construction crew comes calling so does a lot of mess. Blowing debris, ongoing material deliveries, and pick-up trucks parked everywhere create a host of problems including the likelihood of nails and other “horse hazards” being left behind. The upheaval can continue for weeks or months, creating noise and distractions that horses and riders could well do without.

A modular barn on the other hand offers placement and assembly of the structure

within a few days. A small crew gets the job done quickly and efficiently with minimal disruption to your routine.

In the case of a prefab barn or run-in shed, it’s simply placed on your prepared site and, when the driver leaves, your horses move in.

Whatever type of structure you choose to “plant” on your property, it is worth considering the budgetfriendly option of modular or prefab construction.

Search for a company that offers a transparent purchasing process with the option of talking to previous customers, or arrange to visit a barn in person to “kick the kickboards” and meet faceto-face with a fellow horse owner near you to gain insight into their experience with the builder. Look for a project partner that is up front about all costs and deposits, and puts their terms in writing.

Before buying a horse barn of any type always check the “P’s and Q’s” Price and Quality. Happy Horse Barn Shopping!

For more information: horizonstructures.com About the author: Nikki Alvin-Smith is a seasoned freelance writer, international Grand Prix dressage competitor/coach/clinician ◆

2020 OHIO EQUESTRIAN DIRECTORY 97

BARN BUILDERS KT Custom Barns 5311 Country Road 77 Millersburg, OH 44654 330.893.3500 KTBarns.com Kirkham Building System 3777 W. State Route 37 Delaware, OH 43015 740.548.7810 KirkhamBuildingSystem.com Horizon Structures 5075 Lower Valley Road Atglen, PA 19310 888.44SHEDS HorizonStructures.com Morton Buildings, Ohio 800.447.7436 MortonBuildings.com Pole Barns Direct 2212 Fox Avenue, SE Minerva, OH 44657 877.71.BARNS PoleBarnsDirect.com

20 OHIO EQUESTRIAN 20 BUSINESS DIRECTORY

BLANKET CLEANING The Blanket Lady Janet Dyer (Largent) 440.552.6900 TheBlanketLadyOhio.com

BOARDING STABLES/ TRAINING BARNS Bayhill Farm Doug Rath Performance Horses 2630 Carriage Road Powell, OH 43065 614.588.3316 Bookmark Farms Joan Promen/Colleen Holton 8824 Morse Road, SW Pataskala, Ohio 43062 740.964.2601 BookmarkFarms.com

Rigidply Rafters 701 E. Linden Street Richland, PA 17087 717.866.6581 Rigidply.com

Cessna Stables Shannon Cessna 7651 Friendsville Road Lodi, OH 44254 330.461.2318 CessnaStables.com

Walters Buildings 5045 US-68 Urbana, OH 43078 800.558.7800 WaltersBuildings.com

Chagrin Valley Farms 9250 Washington Street Chagrin Falls, OH 44023 440.543.7233 ChagrinValleyFarms.com

BEDDING MANUFACTURERS The Espoma Company Espoma Naturals/Sani-Care 6 Espoma Road Millview, NJ 08332 800.634.0603 Sani-Care.com

BEDDING SUPPLIERS Little Stinker Farm 13987 Watt Road Novelty, OH 44072 440.338.4203

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OHIO EQUESTRIAN DIRECTORY 2020

Cornerstone Farm 6809 Beach Road Medina, OH 44256 330.696.4304 CornerstoneFarmOhio.com Ellrick Farm Susan Channing-Lloyd 10286 Wilson Mills Road Chardon, OH 44024 440.285.4556 EllrickFarms.com

Stealaway Farm Angela Moore 9317 Johnstown-Alexandria Road, NW Johnstown, OH 43031 614.989.9029 StealawayFarm.com

Equine Differences Ric Weitzel 11911 Leavitt Road Oberlin, OH 44074 440.822.4685 EquineDifferences.com

Stone Gate Farm Jackie Smith/Kyle Smith 31407 Schneider Road Hanoverton, OH 44423 330.277.6964 / 330.277.6592 StoneGateFarm.org

Free Spirit Farm Kris Ropp 13987 Watt Road Novelty, Ohio 44072 440.338.4203

Topline Stables At Walden Janeen Langowski-Grava 1109 Aurora-Hudson Road Aurora, OH 44202 440.666.6182 Topline-Stables.com

Handle Hill Farm Mary Mehwald 11244 Handle Road Strongsville, OH 44136 440.238.4541 HandleHillFarm.com Hinckley Equestrian Center 1575 Ledge Road Hinckley, OH 44233 330.239.6878 HinckleyEC.com Pure Gold Stables & Equestrian Facility Laura Ann Kosiorek-Smith 3325 State Route 45 Salem, OH 44460 330.565.6844 PureGoldStables.com Quiet Meadow Farm Stefanie Portman/Shirley Krames-Kopas 8123 Dines Road Novelty, OH 44072 440.636.3813/440.708.3023 QuietMeadowFarmOhio.com Red Tail Equestrian Richwood, OH RedTailEq.com Sand Hill Stable Elizabeth Shaw 4311 State Route 303 Mantua, OH 44255 330.221.8819 SandHillStable.com

White North Stables Jill Klepeis-Brick/Elizabeth Porter 3160 Chagrin River Road Chagrin Falls, OH 44022 216.598.6826

BREEDERS Coppertop Clydesdales Laurie Gallatin 13445 County Home Road Marysville, OH 43040 937.707.9216 Harvey Arabians Jim and Louise Harvey 7487 Wooster Pike Road Seville, Ohio 44273 330.722.7781 Smokey Valley Horse Smokey Valley Farm Bob and Jane Coleman 5183 KY-2 Olive Hill, KY 41164 606.286.6588 SmokeyValleyFarm.com

BRIDLE FITTERS

By Design Equestrian Boutique, LLC Authorized Retailer PS of Sweden Jennifer L. McLandrich 440.487.1925

CLUBS/ORGANIZATIONS CADS Classical Attraction Dressage Society 234.804.8735 CADSDressage.org ELCR Equine Land Conservation Resource 4037 Iron Works Pkwy, Suite120 Lexington, KY 40511 859.455.8383 ELCR.org IEA Interscholastic Equestrian Association 877.743.3432 RideIEA.org IHSA Intercollegiate Horse Shows Association 844.307.4472 IHSAInc.com LUCK Leg Up For Cleveland’s Kids Luck4Kids.org MODA Mid-Ohio Dressage Association MidOhioDressage.com NODA Northern Ohio Dressage Association NodaRider.org OHC Ohio Horseman’s Council 614.600.1972 OHCOnline.com OPHA Ohio Professional Horsemen’s Association OPHA.org YEDA Youth Equestrian Development Association ShowYEDA.com

EDUCATION UNIVERSITIES Lake Erie College 391 West Washington Street Painesville, OH 44077 855.467.8676 LEC.edu

20 OHIO EQUESTRIAN 20 BUSINESS DIRECTORY

Ohio State University 281 W. Lane Avenue Columbus, OH 43210 614.292.6446 OSU.edu Otterbein University 1 South Grove Street Westerville, OH 43081 614.890.3000 Otterbein.edu Spirit of Leadership 9796 Cedar Road Novelty, OH 44072 440.338.1752 Spirit-Of-Leadership.com University of Findlay 1000 N. Main Street Findlay, OH 45850 419.422.8313 Findlay.edu University of Kentucky Lexington, KY 40506 859.257.9000 UKY.edu University of Louisville Louisville, KY 800.334.8635 Louisville.edu

EQUESTRIAN DINING Warren’s Spirited Kitchen 14614 E. Park Street Burton, OH 44021 440.273.8100 WarrensSpiritedKitchen.com World Equestrian Center The Paddock Club 4095 OH 730 Wilmington, OH 45177 937.382.0985 WorldEquestrianCenter.com

EQUINE APPRAISERS SEB Equine Appraisals, LLC Sara E. Ballinger 419.348.3771 SEBEquineAppraisals.com

EQUESTRIAN FINE FURNITURE

EQUINE ASSISTED THERAPY

Created Hardwood 16 West Poplar Avenue Columbus, OH 43215 330.447.1780 CreatedHardwood.com

Hope Meadows Foundation Center For Healing & Equine Therapy 6480 Rockside Road Independence, OH 44131 216.232.3656 HopeMeadowsOh.org

EQUESTRIAN MARKETING GRAPHIC DESIGN Aristo Marketing Mandy Boggs 440.478.5772 Aristo-Marketing.com

Spirit of Leadership 9796 Cedar Road Novelty, OH 44072 440.338.1752 Spirit-Of-Leadership.com

ENSO Media Group PO Box 470603 Cleveland, OH 44147 440.668.2812 KentuckyEquestrianDirectory.com OhioEquestrianDirectory.com

True North Veteran Support 7575 State Route 521 Sunbury, OH 43074 740.272.0612 TrueNorthVeteranSupport.org

Topline Communications Sarah Coleman/Jen Roytz Lexington, KY 330.518.9001/859.494.4712 TeamTopline.com

Valley Equine Dentistry Gian P. Gargiulo, DVM 440.356.9550 ValleyEquineDentistry.com

EQUESTRIAN MEMORABILIA Secretariat.com PO Box 4865 Louisville, KY 40204 Secretariat.com

EQUESTRIAN SPECIALTY PRODUCTS/GIFTS Equestrian Delights 216.225.4548 EquestrianDelights.com

EQUESTRIAN WEDDING VENUES Smokey Valley Farm Bob and Jane Coleman 5183 KY-2 Olive Hill, KY 41164 606.286.6588 SmokeyValleyFarm.com

EQUINE DENTISTRY

EQUINE INSURANCE C. Jarvis Insurance Agency 49 East Garfield Road Aurora, OH 44202 440.248.5330 JarvisInsurance.com Fry’s Equine Insurance PO Box 820 Grove City, OH 43123 800.842.9021 FrysEquineInsurance.com Mavon Equine Insurance 118 Constitution Street Suite 110 Lexington, KY 40507 859.455.6781 MavonEquineInsurance.com

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EQUINE INSURANCE-OWNERS PROPERTY/LIABILITY Geissinger Insurance and Financial Services Rachael Geissinger 8122 Main Street Garrettsville, OH 44231 440.781.7412 MLAgents.AmericanNational. com/RachaelGeissinger

EQUINE THERAPY/ MASSAGE Beauty And The Beasts Animal Wellness Jill Lionetti, Certified CCMT, CEMT Akron, OH 330.352.3341 BeautyAndTheBeastsMassage.com Wendy L. Shaffer, MMCP Masterson Method Certified Practitioner Integrated Performance Horse Bodywork 724.815.5236 AgileEquineBodywork.com

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EQUINE TRANSPORTATION EquiJet International Air Transport 3 Raritan River Road Califon, NJ 07830 833.378.4538 EquiJet.com

FARM EQUIPMENT Cashmans Horse Equipment Outlet 1646 US HWY 42 North Delaware, OH 43015 740.363.6073 Cashmans.com Reveal 4-N-1 Mt. Orab, OH 45154 937.444.2609 Reveal4-N-1.com

Chardon Country Store 12285 Ravenna Road 440.285.3143 Cortland Country Store 312 South Mecca Street 330.637.4015

Willandale Golf Cart Sales 111 N. Wooster Avenue Strasburg, OH 44680 330.663.3824 WillandaleGolfCartSales.com

Elyria Country Store 210 Huron Street 440.323.0395

FEED/BEDDING HORSE CARE SUPPLIES

Grafton Country Store 717 Erie Street 440.926.2281

Cashmans Horse Equipment Outlet 1646 US Highway 42 North Delaware, OH 43015 740.363.6073 Cashmans.com

Jefferson Lumber 161 East Jefferson Street 440.576.3010

CENTERRA Country Stores: CenterraCoop.com OHIO Locations: Ashland Country Store 1290 Middle Rowsburg Road 419.281.8423

Medina Country Store 6701 Wooster Pike (SR 3) 330.721.0852 Middlefield Lumber 16003 East High Street 440.632.0271

Shelby Hull

Equine Specialist

234-855-2011

shull@witmersfeed.com

Equi-Balance Line Equi-Balance Maintenance | Equi-Balance Senior | Equi-Balance Low Starch (pellet & sweet feed) (pellet) (pellet)

“Specially formulated horse feed for maximum health and performance” Berlin Location 3398 Berlin Plank Road Berlin, Pa 15530 814-267-4124

Columbiana Mill 3770 Renkenberger Road Columbiana, Ohio 44408 330-482-4321

Garfield Location 15970 Front Street Salem, Ohio 44460 330-537-4631

www.witmersfeed.com • info@witmersfeed.com 8am to 5pm Monday - Friday • 8am to 12pm Saturday

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Ravenna Country Store 467 Cleveland Road 330.296.3424 West Salem Country Store 40 Equity Street 419.853.4027 Wooster Country Store 427 West Henry Street 330.264.9925 Farmer’s Exchange: FeedForLess.com OHIO Locations: Berea Farmer’s Exchange 384 West Bagley Road Berea, OH 44017 440.243.6505 Medina Warehouse 650 W. Smith Road Medina, OH 44256 330.618.6854 Wadsworth Farmer’s Exchange 231 Great Oaks Trail Wadsworth, OH 44281 330.706.1359

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Geauga Feed & Grain 11030 Kinsman Road Newbury Township, OH 44065 440.564.5000 GeaugaFeed.com SmartPak 800.461.8898 SmartPakEquine.com Sugarcreek Shavings 3121 Winklepleck Road Sugarcreek, OH 44681 330.852.3538 SugarcreekShavings.com Reiterman Feed & Supply 103 N. London Street Mount Sterling, OH 43143 740.869.3817 / 866.869.3817 ReitermanFeed.com

FEED/SUPPLEMENTS Buckeye Nutrition 330 E. Schultz Avenue Dalton, OH 44618 800.417.6460 BuckeyeNutrition.com DAC Direct Action Company Mary Vedda , Authorized Distributor 440.336.2796 Mary.Vedda@gmail.com FeedDac.com Geauga Feed & Grain 11030 Kinsman Road Newbury Township, OH 44065 440.564.5000 GeaugaFeed.com

SmartPak 800.461.8898 SmartPakEquine.com Witmer’s Feed and Grain WitmersFeed.com Locations: Berlin 3398 Berlin Plank Road Berlin, PA 15530 814.267.4124 Columbiana Mill 3770 Renkenberger Road Columbiana, OH 44408 330.482.4321 Garfield Mill 15970 Front Street Salem, OH 44460 330.537.4631

FENCING/STALL SYSTEMS & DESIGN Heritage Equine Equipment 74 Quail Lane Box Springs, GA 31801 706.575.5153 HeritageEquineEquip.com

Horse blanket washing, waterproofing, and repair HORSE BLANKET REPAIRS

•Repair of rips and tears •Hardware replacement •Velcro and strap replacement

Please see the website for a full list of services and pricing www.theblanketladyohio.com

Big D’s in Streetsboro is a drop off/pick up place for The Blanket Lady!

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RAMM Horse Fencing & Stalls 13150 Airport Highway Swanton, OH 43558 800.434.7919 RammFence.com Swiss Valley Fence 2411 State Route 39 Sugarcreek, OH 44681 330.852.4460 SwissValleyFence.com

HAY GROWERS Little Stinker Farm 13987 Watt Road Novelty, OH 440.338.4203

HOOF CARE PROFESSIONALS Enlightened Equine Hoof Care Steve + Dora Hebrock Certified Hoof Care Professionals 330.813.5434 EnlightenedEquine.com

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HORSE CARE SPECIALTY SERVICES K.B.’s Sheath Cleaning Kristen R. Boltz, RVT 330.205.3008 Facebook.com/KBSSheathCleaning

HORSE JUMPS EQUIPMENT Light ‘N Lasting Southington, OH 800.397.1239 LightNLasting.com

HORSE SHOWS/VENUES

Kentucky Three Day Event Kentucky Horse Park 4089 Iron Works Pkwy Lexington, KY 40511 859.233.2362 KentuckyThreeDayEvent.com World Equestrian Center 4095 State Route 730 Wilmington, OH 45177 937.382.0985 WEC.net

PHOTOGRAPHY

Brave Horse 1029 South County Line Road Johnstown, OH 43031 614.404.1150 Brave-Horse.com

Lasting Impressions Photography Raymond Duval 440.465.4121 OnlinePIctureProof.com/ LastingImpressions PhotographyOnline

Farm Jenny 24/7 Equine Monitoring 139 Pearce Road Mars, PA 16046 833.327.6536 FarmJenny.com

Chagrin Hunter Jumper Classic Cleveland Metroparks Polo Field 3799 Chagrin River Road Moreland Hills, OH 44022 ChagrinHunterJumperClassic.org

Jessa Janes Photography 440.669.7860 JessaJanes.com

GreenGuard Equine Grazing Muzzle 888.994.2070 GreenGuardEquine.com

Chagrin Valley Farms 9250 Washington Street Chagrin Falls, OH 44023 440.543.7233 ChagrinValleyFarms.com

HORSE CARE/ SPECIALTY PRODUCTS

Guaranteed Horse Products, LLC Fly Bye! Plus Hudson, OH 330.687.3353 GuaranteedHorseProducts.com HandsOn Gloves Grooming Gloves 817.477.0017 HandsOnGloves.com One Touch Equine Fly Spray 330.594.7797 OneTouchFlySpray.com Orange Slow Feeder 253.363.7801 OrangeSlowFeeder.com

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Equine Affaire Ohio Expo Center 717 E. 17th Avenue Columbus, OH 43211 740.845.0085 EquineAffaire.com EQUITANA USA Kentucky Horse Park 4089 Iron Works Pkwy Lexington, KY 40511 877.547.6398 EquitanaUSA.com

Lori Spellman Photography 440.497.8875 LoriSpellmanPhotography.com Silk Studio Photography Stephani A. Kame Charlene Williams 330.354.6809 SilkStudioPhotography.com

REALTORS Chad Long Coldwell Banker – King Thompson 614.580.9513 ChadLong.CBInTouch.com Mary Vedda Keller Williams Realty Olmsted Township, OH 440.336.2796 MaryVedda.KWRealty.com

RESCUE/ADOPTION THOROUGHBRED AFTERCARE Angels Haven Horse Rescue Evergreen Farm 13297 Durkee Road Grafton, OH 44044 440.781.5060 AngelsHavenHorseRescue.org Copper Horse Crusade 3739 Glenn Highway Cambridge, OH 43725 740.601.2752 CopperHorseCrusade.com Happy Trails Farm Animal Sanctuary 5623 New Milford Road Ravenna, OH 44266 330.296.5914 HappyTrailsFarm.org New Vocations Racehorse Adoption Program OH, KY, PA, NY Facilities 937.947.4020 NewVocations.org Retired Racehorse Project 2976 Solomon’s Island Road Edgewater, MD 21037 410.798.5140 RetiredRacehorseProject.org

SADDLES/SADDLE FITTING Barnes Tack Room Robert Barnes 808.557.1371 BarnesTackRoom.com Saddles 101 Heather Soones-Booher SMS Qualified Saddle Fitter 135 Hunt Road Portersville, PA 16051 240.431.1318 Saddles101.com The Saddle Tree Amanda Berges Certified Independent Saddle Fitter Johnstown, OH 440.983.1495 TheSaddleTree.com *(See TACK/RIDING EQUIPMENT/APPAREL for Add’l Saddles Retail/Resale)

TACK/RIDING EQUIPMENT APPAREL Big Dee’s Tack & Vet Supply 9440 State Route 14 Streetsboro, OH 44241 800.321.2142 / 330.626.5000 BigDWeb.com

By Design Equestrian Boutique, LLC Authorized Retailer PS of Sweden Jennifer L. McLandrich 440.487.1925 Carl’s Place 4927 Wilkes Road Atwater, OH 44201 330.325.1641 Chagrin Saddlery 8574 Washington Street Chagrin Falls, OH 44023 440.708.0674 ChagrinSaddlery.com Chagrin Saddlery World Equestrian Center 4095 State Route 730 Wilmington, OH 45177 937.382.0985 ChagrinSaddlery.com/WEC.net Clip-ity Clop Saddlery 12930 Chippewa Road Brecksville, OH 44141 440.526.2965 Clip-ityClop.com Dover Saddlery 8740 Montgomery Road Cincinnati, OH 45236 513.792.0901 DoverSaddlery.com Equine Essentials 32720 Walker Road, F-2 Avon Lake, OH 44012 440.653.5343 EquineEssentialsAvonLake.com Equus Now! 8956 Cotter Street Lewis Center, OH 43035 740.549.4959 EquusNow.com

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Equus Now! 420 Wards Corner Road, Suite D Loveland, OH 45140 513.630.1197 EquusNow.com

Green Mountain Horse and Tack 1327 Sharon Copley Road Wadsworth, OH 44281 234.248.4245 GreenMountainHorse.com Rod’s Western Palace 3099 Silver Drive Columbus, OH 43224 866.326.1975 Rods.com Saltwell Western Store 2000 Seven Mile Drive New Philadelphia, OH 44663 330.343.0388 SaltwellWesternStore.com

Dora Hebrock Certified Straightness Training Instructor 330.803.2043 Laura Kosiorek-Smith A Stone’s Throw Farm Northeast Ohio 814.434.0914

Stephanie Portman Shirley Krames-Kopas Quiet Meadow Farm Novelty, OH 440.636.3813 QuietMeadowFarmOhio.com

TRANSPORTATION SPECIALTY TRUCKING Shuman Specialized Transportation 2925 Columbus Avenue Springfield, OH 45503 937.324.4429 ShumanTransport.com

TRAVEL/TRAIL RIDING

Poulin Dressage Kate Poulin Chagrin Falls, OH 386.624.3968 KatePoulin.com

7LazyP Outfitting, LLC 891 Teton Canyon Road Choteau, MT 59422 406.466.2245 SevenLazyP.com

Puthoff Performance Horses Lynne Puthoff 3275 South Shiloh Road Laura, OH 45337 937.546.1505

Smokey Valley Farm Bob and Jane Coleman 5183 KY-2 Olive Hill, KY 41164 606.286.6588 SmokeyValleyFarm.com

Schneiders Saddlery 8255 Washington Street Chagrin Falls, OH 44023 800.365.1311 SStack.com SmartPak 800.461.8898 SmartPakEquine.com The Bitless Bridle by Dr.Cook PHS Saddlery 5220 Barrett Road Colorado Springs, CO 80926 719.576.4786 BitlessBridle.com The Tacky Horse 171 N. Alpha Bellbrook Road Beavercreek, OH 45434 937.427.0797 TheTackyHorse.com

TRAINERS Angela Moore Stealaway Farm 9317 Johnstown-Alexandria Road, NW Johnstown, OH 43031 614.989.9029

Phone: 440.356.9550 Email: info@valleyequinedentistry.com

Visit us on the web!

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TRUCK/TRAILER SALES & SERVICE

Cleveland Equine Clinic 3340 Webb Road Ravenna, OH 44266 330.422.0040 ClevelandEquine.com

Altmeyer’s Trailers 5122 Park Avenue, West Seville, OH 44273 330.769.3040 AltmeyerTrailers.com

Countryside Veterinary Center Laurie Gallatin, DVM, DACVIM 2232 State Route 61 Sunbury, OH 43074 740.965.8111 CountrysideVetCenter.net

Chuck’s Custom Truck & Trailer 750 West Smith Road Medina, OH 44256 330.723.6029 ChucksCustom.com Ganley Ford 2835 Barber Road, Norton/Barberton, OH 44203 800.942.6305 GoGanleyFord.com

Specializing in Equine Mortality, Liability and Farm Insurance

Equine Specialty Hospital 17434 Rapids Road Burton, OH 44021 440.834.0811 EquineSpecialtyHospital.com

Leonard Truck & Trailer 12800 Leonard Parkway North Jackson, OH 44451 800.455.1001 LeonardTrailers.com

Ohio State University Large Animal Services at Marysville 16410 County Home Road Marysville, OH 43040 937.642.2936 Vet.OSU.edu/Marysville

VETERINARY PROFESSIONALS/HOSPITALS Bella Vista Equine Veterinary Services 6320 Darling Road Blacklick, OH 43004 614.540.0040 BellaVistaEquineVet.com

Ohio State University Veterinary Medical Center Galbreath Equine Center 601 Vernon L. Tharp Street Columbus, OH 43210 614.292.6661 Vet.OSU.edu/VCM/equine

Buckeye Veterinary Service 16295 Claridon-Troy Road Burton, OH 44021 440.834.8821 BuckeyeVet.org

a multi-faceted marketing firm dedicated to

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WEB

Your Equine Real Estate Connection

Serving Buyers and Sellers with Integrity for Over 20 Years Knowledgeable Resource Innovative marketing strategies Expertise about horse property features

MARY VEDDA, ABRÂŽ CNE, CRS

Ability to target searches

maryveddahomes@gmail.com www.maryvedda.kwrealty.com

Support through the closing and beyond

(440) 336-2796

Strong negotiation skills