
2 minute read
FROM THE HORSE’S MOUTH
PUBLISHER’S LETTER
With Fiona Todd
Before we dive into the September edition, please note that entries for the inaugural Delivering Dreams Scholarship close on 15th September. So if you haven’t already forwarded your application, don’t dally. Follow this link to our scholarship information page to learn more.
So back to our spring edition, which also marks the beginning of foal season - definitely the cutest time of the year. But be warned, breeding and raising foals is not all about gorgeousness! There are some fairly serious considerations to keep in mind.
First and foremost, when you’re considering breeding the selection of a stallion is paramount. We talk to renowned breeder Ulli Klatte who gives us some sage advice on this front - particularly, that we should begin with the end in mind. Once your mare has produced a beautiful foal good nutrition is vital, and Larissa Bilston offers some excellent advice on feeding mares with foals at foot, as well as the best way to nourish that poor orphaned baby. And finally, Helen Chugg covers the appropriate handling of foals in this month’s Training Tips.
And while we’re talking about small horses, let’s not forget the small but mighty Falabella, who we’ve featured on our stunning front cover.
Regular columnist Charlie Brister continues to help equestrians overcome the everyday challenges that most of us are faced with at one time or another. This month, Charlie teaches the art of opening and closing a gate without having to dismount, particularly useful when you’re out on trails.
Then Jo McKinnon chats to Our Hero Sally Francis. Sally has made a massive overall contribution to the equestrian world, but it’s her support of riders with a disability that saw her recently awarded with a well-deserved OAM.
And have you ever visited your local saddlery and been totally overwhelmed by the choice of bits on offer? What do they all do? Which one should you choose? The world of bits can be a real puzzle, but fortunately we have Dannii Cunnane to help us through the what, why and when of bit selection.
September’s Horse Listener delves into the fascinating topic of horse family bonds, as Candida Baker explores the interactions of a family of horses and the exceptionally strong connection that they obviously share.
Ever wondered about the healing power of horses? Then read Jane Camens’ article on the inspiring Clemmie Wotherspoon. From the depths of despair, to studying Equine Assisted Learning and trekking across Australia, to … well, you need to read this story. Amazing woman!
We also take a look at the healing power of hemp, and enjoy a formal introduction to Dollor, John Wayne’s favourite ride.
Then there’s our homage to another of our wonderful up and coming Young Riders, Mary Nitschke; our September Giving Back volunteer Andrea Webb; the Saddle Review; our Around the Traps pictorial feast and plenty more. I suggest you pour yourself a glass of your favourite tipple, relax and enjoy this wonderful edition of HorseVibes.
SCHOLARSHIP



Delivering Dreams Scholarship
