February 2022 Equine Times

February 2022

Serving the Michigan, Indiana & Ohio Tri-State Horse Community

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Equine Times

February 2022

CLUB NEWS

Michigan Foxtrotting Horse Association Michigan Fox Association Michigan Fox Trotter Trotter Association

is very motivational by encouragingfor you to do more things with your Fox Trotter. You included a competition the will have fun experiencing a wide range of activities to prove how versatile your horse most ambitious member PROTECT YOUR LARGEwho BALE HAY INVE$TMENT! demonstrates their horsemanship PROTECT LARGE BALE HAY INVE$TMENT! skills in a wideYOUR variety of categories.

Quarterly and year-end awards will be given. Go to www.michiganfoxtrotters.com to read the rules and print off the forms to join in on the friendly competition and fun.

More Fox Trotters are slowly becoming available to purchase but they are selling fast. There is a good video on the correct Fox Trot gait posted on our Face Book site to refer to when you are considering an MFT to buy. Be sure to bring a knowledgeable person with you,too, when you narrow down your search. Breeders, Chuck Fanslow (riverflatranch.com) and Gale Gunders (989-534-1207), have well-gaited young stock available. They also have quality studs to breed to if you have a mare you want bred. Chuck has a Buckskin stallion and a palomino stallion(both sons of Cotton Eyed Joe). Gale has a spotted stallion who will throw color to your foal. Both are located in Gladwin,MI. x 78” 76” Contact them if you wantDimensions: to have your72” mare bred.x There Dimensions: 72” x 78” x 76” Weight: 230 lbs.

Weight: 230 lbs.

is. There are youth and adult categories available. Get your friends with Fox Trotters We have resources and of people available for you to learn is join nothing like the a well-bred foal! to and do this with you!expectation It's fun and Fox Trotters can do ANYTHING! from and breeders to refer you to if you want to ADon't big welcome goes out new member,your Susan Williams of Morning View Farm forget toto transfer newly-bought horse's in Ionia, Michigan. Susan comes the one QH world.

Sheor has competed successbuy afrom young to train if you wantvery to further registration papers into your name with MFT the MFTHBA,too. fully in training is now half owner and three thechallenges trainingand with youranpresent horse. year director for the MFHA. welcomes go out to We are growing!

New member The MFTHBA needs registered The events committee has been hard at members work finalNaomi Haas, equinetoizing dentist Krison Modreske and the details our annual MFTHBA national fill their committees for 2021.

I justHarry agreed trail out ride, clinics and otherCommittee trail rides. gelding Goagain. to our Struble all of MI. Naomi rides sorrel sabino to help on athe Trail website and Facebook page for periodic (Dexter) and a blackSurely mareyou (Hank's Serenity Liberty Bell can,too!

Various committees need updates. members(younger onesa number too) for input have of their unisex stoneB). Kris rides a black and whiteWe gelding (Radar's Spotted washed short-sleeved 100% cotton and advice togo increase Prior). And congratulations outblue toaffiliate Harrynumbers,think Struble on limited edition MFTA t-shirts available of ways to make the shows better,to improve and for only (plus $6 shipping unless his purchase of Joe's Golden Chip, a $15 handsome buckskin okay National Trail Ride applications,give on want to pick it up ideas Mason, gelding, from Chuck you Fanslow.

All thesein memGo to mifoxtrot21@gmail. clinics (let's get more closer Michigan). to our state),getting more vercom to place Fox your order.

Make your bers are riding quality Trotters!!! satility riders interested,give ideas on training and picking judges, plus check out to MFHA. The sales of New members are always welmore. Many positions can be supported remotely. is afunding great these shirts willAlso, help this provide come!

Go to www.michiganfoxclinics promotional way to meet those from other areas for of the USAand whoother raise,train and activities. We appreciate your help. trotters.com to print off the ride MFTs. I have made new friends thisWeway who I would not have are the Michigan affiliate of the otherwise. Contact the MO Fox Trotting Horse Association membership form.Horse We meet Missouri Fox Breeding Trotter Breed (MFTHBA).

Go mfthba.com via www.mfthba.com to become Association a member and forsomore virtually alltoinformation members to register your horse and become a member. on helping out. ableofto meet activities without There are a are wide range interesting to Also, PLEASE send inbecome your MFTA and your mission MFTHBA involveddues in. The MFHA’s is todues prohaving to drive long dismote the Fox Trotter horse in and around Michigan. We asap! tances. are a member led and groupsafe who work together to promote, plan Wishing everyone a blessed Christmas! and carry out educational and fun activities that owners and riders are Our Event Committee Respectfully submitted, interested in. Become a member now by going to michiganfoxtrottinghorse.com and busy planning next send in your membership. Make your check out is to MFHA. Marilynthe Mannino Our meetings are held remotely the third Thursday month evening. clinic. ofItthewill bein atheGaited You are invited to attend. Send in your membership so we can send you an invitation.

Western Dressage Clinic at For the Finest STALLS Money Can Buy the end of May. More details

One Piece TobeAnavailable EntireCan StallBuy will ForFrom the Finest Money STALLS

next month.

The clinician is Exhibition Stall.

From Or OneAn Piece To An Entire Stall top-notch!

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SLIDING SWINGING DOORS A littleOR history on our breed: The pres-

ent-day Missouri Fox evolved from Morgans in SLIDING ORTrotter SWINGING DOORS New England being crossed with Arabians, Plantation Horses, American Saddlebreds, TWHs and pacing Standardbreds. The genetic mix of square-trotting horses and pacing horses created the comfortable fox trot gait!

Missouri Fox Trotting horses have been used by farmers in Missouri and surrounding states to ride long distances to check their fencing and work cows, pull buggies, by US Forest Service workers, by mounted police and now people across the United States and Europe use them for recreation (showing, trail riding, Dressage,reining, 4H and Equestrian Team,that Hippotherapy,etc.).

Design Stalls work for youThey and are yourtruly versatile and also can be found in all colors and sizes! Try Horses....

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Mannino Hello December! Time isMarilyn sure flying!!

Marilyn Mannino At our November meeting we elected some Congratulations, you made it through snowy and cold January! February is upon which means we are inching our way to SPRING! new usofficers for 2021.

Congratulations go out I am sure you are looking Hello April!

Spring is upon us!

People are out Fox forward warm weather as much I am! Presto Bob to Howell electedagain as the newasMFTA The results are in for the 2021 versatility challenge!

Trotting and enjoying the weather.

Many are accumulatident, Kathy Kruch VP, Marilyn is still Congratulations goes outistonow Jodi Myers for the being the most ing points in the Versatility Challenges that we are offerambitious MFHA memberChar in theOstrom horsemanship Secretary/Treasurer, is thechallenge new in which the rider participates the most in trails, lesing.

2-year Director and Miranda Mannino is now sons, showing, clinics, breed demonstrations, versaRegistration is relations still open for all three Versatility the 1-year Director. tility activities and public divisions.

We are accepting renewals Not Under Saddle She accumulated her pointsmembership while riding Spy Challenges (Under Saddle Challenge, and top scorer in the saddle andJigs. newThe memberships for under 2021 now. Youth Challenge). are Challenge and Horseman This prodivision was also Jodi Ultimate riding Spy. They parencouraged to join too!

Go to www.michiganfoxticipatedis in designed a number of to dressage gram showshows, how versatile the Missouri Fox trotters.com to print off theinform. took many lessons, participated clinics,You will learn alot Trotter is.

Registered and grade MFTs are allowed. performed many versatility from our members about activities, the history of Fox Trotters,their camped and traversed many trail miles in youth through All handicapped and regular uses and availability and be able to network with those of us who organized rides. Susan Williams was the adults are the welcome.

Every imaginable camp,train show them.

Ourdiviassociation is blessed to have skilled high scorer inand not under saddle activity and category is included sion.

This division is and for MFTs of any trainers,breeders a farrier toage learn from. We love promoting this who have not yet been saddle-broke. They from in they hand work Dressage, so versatile and come in breed as have greatto personalities,are can earn points in general training, clinics, as many andin different coat colors.toA benefit to joining is that we short distance trail riding well as sizes showing hand.

Fourteen members worked all year on doing as many different things can offer clinics at a reduced price to our members. Due to Covid we endurance competitions and as they could with their MFT(s). A milestone was are meeting remotely each month.

Michigan is a big state and this is a everything in-between (cow achieved by two members: Jodi on Spy and Carrie on goodwho way to have easily see and talk with eachclub other within and outside of Moo both reached the 1000 plus mile on work, driving, extreme trail, their horses.join Thisthe is afun! category in which the accumulated MI. Come 4H and open showing, miles are rolled next year. They each earned a decal to for 2021. Print Sign up over nowinto forthe the popular Versatility Challenge mark their accomplishment.

If mainteyou would like to participate in this very parades, reining, trail off theprogram enrollment from our website. Theretoare may in popular in 2022,form go to michiganfoxtrottinghorse.com learn moreareas about it. nance and We alsoinvolved whichoffyou can more!). accumulate points-even in inthe months.

Print the forms to send in and become thisnon-rideable very popular program.

It

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Weldy Enterprises • 911 E. Waterford St. Wakarusa, IN 46573 574-862-4491 • 800-628-4728 • FAX 574-862-2122 • email: info@weldyenterprises.com Equine Times

April 2021

December 2020 February 2022

Equine Times Times

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Abigayle Holland is a student in the MSU Institute of Agricultural Technology (IAT) horse management certificate program. Abbey Miller

Student furthers education for a future career in equine industry Abbey Miller Abigayle Holland, of Howell, Michigan, enjoys working with horses, a passion she hopes to develop into a career. Holland is a student in the Michigan State University (MSU) Institute of Agricultural Technology (IAT) studying horse management. IAT offers innovative, educational programs that develop career-ready graduates through intensive, practical learning and skill enhancement in animal sciences, plant science and electrical technology.

“I have always loved horses since I was little. I had very limited opportunities growing up to interact with horses.

It was not until my senior year of high school that I had more opportunities to do so,” she said.

“I worked at a horse rescue for a few years prior to coming to MSU. I would be out there almost every day, from doing the day-to-day chores to working with horses in hand. From that experiPage 4

Equine Times

ence, I realized this is something I want to do, not just as a hobby, but turn it into a career,” she continued.

Holland volunteered for Horses’ Haven, a nonprofit horse rescue facility in Howell, Mich., which rescues, rehabilitates, retrains and re-homes at-risk equines. She is also an FFA alumna and is active in her home community.

Holland is also one of the 2021 CANR Alumni Association Scholarship recipients.

After receiving her certificate in the IAT horse management program in spring 2022, Holland plans to transfer into the animal science bachelor’s degree program at MSU. Holland aspires to a career assisting horse owners with their training, behavioral and rehabilitation needs.

Through the IAT Horse Management certificate program, students can focus their area of interest toward horse management, reproduction, riding instruction or training.

February 2022

Hometown: Howell, Michigan Certificate program and location: Horse management certificate program in East Lansing, Institute of Agricultural Technology (IAT) Expected graduation date: Spring 2022 Why did you choose your specific certificate program and why MSU IAT? One of the reasons I picked the MSU IAT program was because it was not only close to me, but I had an interest in the program.

What has been one of your best experiences within IAT so far?

For me, it's the community that IAT creates.

Every class I go to I meet someone new, most of the time they are not even in the same program as me. But we all can relate to something in the agriculture industry.

Any thoughts or advice for current or new students?

Enjoy the classes; they go quicker than you realize, especially from this program. All the professors really want to interact with you and help you succeed.

Ask the Expert: Ice Management and Prevention Dr. Krishona Martinson and Jessica Prigge

Help! The December rains and strange weather has turned my property into an ice skating rink. What can I do to make my paddocks safer for myself and my horses?

Ice is a major safety concern for both horses and their owners. The first step to ice management is prevention. Before the ground freezes, try to provide channels for water to flow away from alleyways, turn out sheds, and areas that horses frequently gather. Gutters on barns and sheds are also recommended as long as they direct water away from high traffic areas. When the temperature is below freezing, avoid dumping or draining whole water tanks, larger buckets, or automatic waterers into paddocks. Finally, when plowing or blowing snow, it is best to move as much snow as possible into areas where the water will drain away from paddocks and alleyways. However, use caution with this approach as melting after snow removal can lead to slick surfaces.

When there is a build-up of ice, poultry grit, sand, and fresh manure are options to help increase traction. Avoid using straw, hay, or fresh shavings as these tend to slide over the ice and will not provide consistent traction. When using grit or sand, make sure to feed horses away from the area, or provide hay and grain in feeders off the ground so that horses do not accidentally ingest the substrate. When temperatures are not too cold, pure salt can be used to speed melting, but should be used in moderation. The effect of salt on horse hooves has not been researched and prolonged exposure has unknown consequences. Additionally, avoid applying salt and sand at the same time as horses may accidentally ingest the sand while licking the salt. Finally, ensure that your horse has the best traction from their hooves. Regularly removing built-up snow and ice from hooves will help the hoof better grip ice and snow and will reduce slipping and falling.

February 2022

Equine Times

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Fire Prevention Measures for Equine Facilities Brittani Kirkland Fire is a serious threat at equine facilities.

Many equine facilities use highly combustible items, such as hay and gasoline, in daily operations which increases the risk of starting a fire. Combine that with horses (flighty, prey animals sensitive to their surroundings) that can be severely injured by fire, and fire safety becomes a high priority for facility management. Most barn fires are preventable, and thoughtful management can help reduce the risk of incidence. Additionally, preparation can help decrease losses in the unfortunate event of a fire igniting. This article provides some easy steps that you can incorporate at

your facility to prepare for and prevent fires.

Preventing Fires Fire requires three things to begin: a fuel source, an ignition source, and oxygen. We cannot control the oxygen in the air, but we can reduce fuel and ignition sources by managing our horse facilities with fire safety in mind.

Many things present on a horse farm can lead to fire, such as heaters, hay, and cobwebs.

Reducing the chance of fire requires forethought about what is around your facility and if it might serve as fuel or ignition source.

Here are a few items to think about and ways to reduce fuel and ignition sources: Do not allow smoking at your equine facilities.

Create an evacuation plan/route and practice it. Donna Foulk

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February 2022

Make sure signs are posted throughout and that the rule is enforced. Ensure all boarders, students, family members, and visitors know about this rule and will comply.

Hay is extremely flammable, and bales should be monitored for moisture and heat.

When hay is baled too wet, excessive microbial respiration results in heat build-up and makes combustion possible during the first six weeks of storage. A hay moisture tester can tell you your hay’s moisture level.

Knowing moisture level is particularly important if you purchased hay soon after baling.

Ideally, hay moisture should be less than 15% for horses. It is best if hay is kept in a well-ventilated, dry storage area. Monitor heat accumulation in your hay. Multiple tools are available for temperature monitoring including probes and thermometers. Internal temperatures of 150ºF to 170ºF are dangerous and could quickly lead to combustion. If you detect this temperature, leave the hay where it is, move a safe distance away and call 9-1-1 immediately.

Store your hay in a separate building away from where horses are housed, ideally downwind of the barn.

This can help reduce the chance of injury to horses if the hay were to catch fire. Also, storing the hay in a separate building or shed can help to contain a fire to one area if the hay ignites. If you can, keep stall bedding materials, which are also flammable, away from horse housing.

Keep the facilities clean!

Clean up any loose hay on the ground and regularly wipe down stalls and rafters to remove dust and cobwebs (which collect dust and other flammable particles). These can all fuel the fire and encourage spread throughout the building, so reduce as much build-up as possible. Electrical fires can also be started from accumulated dust, chaff, bird nests, insect colonies, and webs.

Check electrical sockets, lights, heaters, and other electric items around the barn regularly.

Make sure they are working properly, free of dust and/or cobwebs, and that they are not near or lying against anything that could be flammable, such as stall bedding or winter blankets. You may want to hire an electrician to ensure everything is functioning properly and is up to code.

Do not use portable heaters or dangling heat lamps in your equine facilities.

If you must use a portable heater, for example in a tack room, ensure that you follow the manufacturer’s instructions, never leave

them unattended, clean off dust regularly, and place them far from any flammable items.

Only use heaters that automatically turn off if tipped over. Units with automatic shut-off timers are also recommended.

Only use stall fans that are rated for agricultural use, which can be found at farm supply stores.

The cheaper residential fans you can purchase at home stores do not have sealed motors. Many barn fires start when an unsealed motor on a stall fan fills with dust that ignites. Agricultural fans have an enclosed and sealed motor. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using fans.

Check cords regularly.

Any frayed, broken, or bent cords should not be used until properly repaired. Make sure horses cannot chew or step on any wires or cords around the facility. All appliances should be UL approved.

Store and dispose of combustible materials appropriately.

If possible, keep items such gasoline, propane, and fertilizer in a separate building away from areas where horses will be or where hay might be stored. Paint, chemicals, and aerosol cans are a few other items that might be lying around your facility that could serve as a fire source. Store these properly.

Be Prepared for a Fire to Start As with any disaster, preparation is key to protecting you, your horses, and your facility from fire. Preparing for a fire can help you respond quickly and efficiently. It can also reduce losses and save lives. It is important for you, and others who frequently visit your facility, to know the facility’s plan of action in the event of a fire. This will help individuals (and even your horses) be ready for quick action. Some steps for fire preparedness include: Make sure the fire department can find the facility and easily access it in the event of an emergency.

You may need to direct riders and boarders to park in specified locations to avoid blocking access. It is wise to save a "pin" of your facility using a navigation application on your cell phone. This pin should have the geographical information, including longitude and latitude, of the buildings on the facility.

Posting explicit driving directions for responding fire vehicles throughout the facility (not just in one location) is beneficial if you are not present when the fire starts.

Create an evacuation plan/route and practice it.

Include the horses when you practice!

When making the plan, consider how you will get them out and where you will take them in the event of a fire. Consider gates, panels, and other materials that could be used to help herd horses, keep them contained, and off any roadways. Try to find a location that is secure and away from building structures, such as a secure field away from the stables.

Practice hooking up a horse trailer

and loading your horses on and off it.

In the event of a fire, the horses may need to be relocated. It is important that the horses are familiar with trailer loading and are willing to load easily. This will help you be able to get them out of harm’s way quickly.

Train and desensitize your horses to having items (blankets, shirts, etc.) placed on or over their bodies and faces.

Many times, with fire, horses may need to have things placed over their bodies to protect them from flames while being moved to a new location.

Keep halters and lead ropes on stall doors so they can be easily found and accessed if the horses need to be moved.

Halter break your horses so they are more willing to be haltered and led.

Keep barn aisleways clear.

It is important that exit paths are unobstructed so they can be used in the event of an emergency.

Write down emergency contact numbers and post them throughout the facility.

Veterinarians, facility managers, and local emergency service numbers should be listed.

Keep a spare list in all other buildings in case the barn list gets destroyed.

Have water and fire extinguishers in accessible locations throughout the facility for easy access.

Fire extinguishers in barns should be ABC (all-class) type and inspected annually.

Know where all power mains are located and how to turn off the power if needed.

Building for Prevention If you have not begun construction, consider fire safety when you are designing and building your new equine facility. There are many ways you can build the facility to be fire resistant and to be accommodating for emergency response. Things to consider include: • Separating buildings (particularly areas where hay, bedding, and farm equipment/fuel are stored) • Make sure all fans and light fixtures selected are designed for agricultural use • Using building materials that are fire retardant/resistant (i.e. masonry, treated wood) • Ensuring emergency vehicle access • Installing water hydrants and other water sources that would be easily available • Installing fire detection and suppression systems designed for agricultural facilities (i.e. sprinklers) It is best to seek out professional assistance from fire engineers when considering fire safety at your new facility. Always check local fire code regulations as well. Hiring a certified electrician may also helpful. For more detailed building considerations read Fire Safety in Horse Stables.

Fires at our equine facilities can be extremely destructive, but with strategic management and preparation, you can reduce the likelihood of a fire starting and enhance your ability to respond in the event of a disaster.

Think through what items might serve as a fuel or ignition source at your facility and do your best to reduce the likelihood of these items starting a fire. Additionally, plan for how you will respond if there is a fire and practice!

Keep the facilities clean. Laura Kenny

February 2022

Equine Times

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Authored by Wendy Hein Page 8

Equine Times

February 2022

Authored by Wendy Hein February 2022

Equine Times

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Horse Owners Are You Ready For Spring?

Helene McKernan Each spring, one should go through the ritual of preparing pastures, horses and equipment for the prospect of riding and enjoyment during warmer weather.

The first job to tackle is checking the perimeter fenceline of the pastures. In fall, horses may be confined to a smaller paddock (or what horsemen call a sacrifice area) to prevent destruction of pasture forages during periods of unstable footing caused by thawing and freezing.

This keeps pastures from being destroyed by horses chopping up the sod while trying to find that last tasty green morsel that might survive the non-growing season.

Fencing If electric fencing is utilized, one often "un-hooks" the electric fencing in the fall to reduce maintenance and increase abilities within the sacrifice areas. During hunting season, the deer are constantly running through and breaking the fence wire and winter storms bring down trees and branches that cause the fence to not work properly. Therefore, in the spring, before one can "re-hook" up the electricity to the fencing, it will require walking the line and checking the fence posts for stability, removing any branches or fallen trees, and repairing any breaks in the wire. About one week later, repeat the process so that deer and other wildlife have time to re-learn about the fence perimeters. Other types of fencing also require maintenance and should be checked accordingly.

Grazing Often, horses are not returned to grazing in pastures until May 1 (depending upon your growing season). This enables the pasture grasses a chance to Page 10 Equine Times

get a firm growth start and also a time for horses to acclimate to a diet of rich grass feed. All winter long in the sacrifice area, the horses have been eating dried forage, hay and grain supplements. The horse's digestive system needs to be slowly introduced to this new rich grass feed. During the month of April, limit the time the horses have eating grass until they can safely graze for longer periods of time.

One can begin by allowing the horses ten or fifteen minutes of hand grazing for a few days. The controlled grazing is increased by five to fifteen minute increments for the next two weeks. By the second week of April, one can turn the horses out for free grazing for about one hour at a time. Each day, increase that time by increments of fifteen minutes or so. Then by the beginning of May, horses' digestive systems will be acclimated to at least four or five hour periods of grazing time. The limited grazing in April also allows the forages to establish without constant stress. Allowing the forage this "jump-start" will contribute to providing a more established and productive pasture in the following summer months.

Horse Health Spring is also the time for many to have the annual veterinary visit for inoculations and yearly examination. This may includes the Coggins testing that is often required for participation in horse show and other horse events. It is recommended to vaccinate/inoculate horses for Tetanus, Equine Encephalomyelitis (Eastern & Western), West Nile Virus, and Rabies. There are other "risk-based" inoculations available, such as Influenza, Rhinopneumonitis, Potomac Horse Fever and Strangles, and every horse owner needs to consult with their veterinarian and decide what inoculations are best and February 2022

needed for their horse and in their region.

For more information on spring vaccinations, read Spring Vaccines for Your Horse.

With warmer days during spring and summer, it is more likely that a daily search of the horse will find ticks attached and feeding on the host horse. Ticks are prevalent in most areas and tend to be more abundant in fall and spring months when they are searching for a host. Ticks can be found year round, but often are more common in warmer weather.

Checking and/or brushing the coat of the horse will assist in quicker shedding and will assist in finding other types of parasitic or skin conditions.

Farrier visits should be year round every six to eight weeks. Often horses that are heavily ridden are shod. When they are not ridden as much in the winter, owners tend to remove the shoes and let the horses go barefoot. With the prospect of resuming riding in the spring, shoes will need to be placed back on the horse.

Schedule a visit from your farrier to enable him ample time to fit your horse's needs into his schedule. Remember that everyone else in the spring will also want to retain the farrier for the same purpose!

Other Tasks Some final jobs include spring barn cleaning and checking of equipment.

Sweep out hay waste that has collected during the winter; remove cobwebs, dead insects, dirt and dust. Check barn walls for repairs. Spring is a good time to clean and condition the saddle and bridles checking for weak leather, buckles and snaps and cleansing of saddle pads, horse blankets and any other equipment that could use a good scrubbing.

Spring Plants that are Poisonous to Horses, Dogs and Barn Cats

Many ornamental plants can be harmful to horses, dogs and barn cats Donna Foulk Did you know that tulip, hyacinth and daffodil bulbs can damage a dog's mouth and esophagus, leading to drooling, vomiting, severe diarrhea and even abnormal heart rhythms? Asiatic and Japanese lilies can cause severe kidney failure in cats.

Just one or two leaves can kill them. Be sure to keep bulbs out of reach before planting them.

The following is a list of common spring and summertime plants and the dangers posed: • Rhododendron - Vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, weakness, coma, hypotension, CNS depression, cardiovascular collapse and death.

• Azalea - Vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, weakness, coma, hypotension, CNS depression, cardiovascular collapse and death.

• Crocus - Excessive salivation, abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, gastro-intestinal disorders, lack of appetite, tremors, convulsions, seizures.

• Gladiola - Salivation, vomiting, drooling, lethargy, diarrhea. Gladiola is a great flowering plant in the garden and they are more popularly used in floral arrangements, but since it is the corm (bulb), it is toxic to dogs and cats (not seen much so it may not present much of a problem).

• Hosta - vomiting, diarrhea, depression. This plant is toxic to both dogs and cats.

• Morning Glory - gastrointestinal heart rate. Although it won't prove lethal upset, agitation, tremors, disorientation, for your pet, they can provide a good dose of discomfort. ataxia, anorexia, hallucinations.

• Tulip/Narcissus - intense gastrointes• Oleander - colic, diarrhea (possibly bloody), sweating, incoordination, shal- tinal irritation, drooling, loss of appetite, low/difficult breathing, muscle tremors, depression of the central nervous system, recumbence, and possibly death from car- convulsions and cardiac abnormalities. diac failure. The plant is pretty, and poi- It's the bulb of the tulip and narcissus sonous. It can severely affect cats, dogs, plants that have the highest concentraand even horses. All parts contain a high- tion of toxins. This means, if you have a ly toxic cardiac glycoside that can cause a dog that digs, be cautious.

• Lily-of-the-Valley - Causes excessive number of problems.

• Ivy (California, Branching, Glacier, salivation, watery eyes, sweating, abdomNeedlepoint, Sweetheart, English Ivy) - inal pain, weakness, convulsions and Vomiting, abdominal pain, hypersaliva- death. This plant is largely an ornamental tion, diarrhea. Ivy foliage is more toxic plant, but may grow wild near old home sites. The plant is highly toxic to all anithan its berries.

• Lilies - kidney failure. They are high- mals.

• Yew - central nervous system effects ly toxic to cats, even when very small portions are ingested. Many types of lily such as trembling, incoordination, and (Tiger, Asian, Japanese Show, Easter, difficulty breathing. It can also cause sigStargazer, Casa Blanca) can cause kidney nificant gastrointestinal irritation and failure in cats. Curiously, lilies are not cardiac failure, which can result in death.

The bark and leaves of this very popular toxic to dogs.

• Sago Palm - a very popular landscap- evergreen provided the basis for the caning plant. They are apparently very tasty cer-treatment drug, paclitaxel-but general to animals, and unfortunately highly tox- ingestion of any part of the tree (except ic-all parts are poisonous, but especially the flesh of the berry) can be very dangerthe seeds. Symptoms: vomiting, melena, ous to animals. Horses have an especially icterus, increased thirst, hemorrhagic gas- low tolerance to yew.

When landscaping the stable area you troenteritis, bruising, coagulopathy, liver may be better off to just plant grass and damage, liver failure, death.

• Tomato plant - hypersalivation, plant the ornamentals at your home. But, inappetence, severe gastrointestinal upset, then you have to watch the pets and childiarrhea, drowsiness, central nerves sys- dren. tem depression, confusion, behavioral change, weakness, dilated pupils, slow February 2022 Equine Times Page 11

Reconditioning After a Winter Break Gina T. If you live in a state that has cold winters, chances are that even if you have an indoor arena you are taking a break on those dreaded frigid dead-of-winter weeks or months. But when things begin to thaw and your horse begins to shed like crazy, it’s time to get back to it! If your horse has had more than three weeks off, he will need to be worked back into a routine strategically in order to help reduce the risk of over-stressing or injuring him in the process.

As eager as you are to get back to jumping, reining or piaff-ing, it’s best to start slow. Think of how you feel the first day back to the gym after a long break. Now picture yourself about ten times the size that you are now, in the gym, out of shape. It’s exhausting just thinking about it! Your horse might have built up energy and seem to be ready to get right to it, but it’s best to work him up slowly to help avoid an injury that could set you back even further.

Plan on a six to eight week conditioning schedule depending on how much time your horse has had off. Start with low impact hacking for about fifteen minutes, working only at the walk. You could also utilize a hot walker if you have one available or hand-walk if you would like. Unless your horse is very obedient on the lunge line, it’s not a recommended way to get him into shape just in case he is extra excitable. Bolting away and galloping in a small circle on the lunge could result in injury to him or even you.

Five to seven days after you begin your walking routine add in five minutes of trot work each day. After two weeks of solid walktrot work you can gradually introduce the canter, again working up

slowly from five minutes just as you did the trot. After thirty days of flat work you can begin to add more strenuous activity to your conditioning program like jumping or speed work (barrels) but work up slowly. Figure in another month to get your horse back to where he was before he took the break. Begin with jumping a single, low fence both directions for the first week, then add in a line and work your way back to a full course. Once you are jumping a course at a smaller height, gradually increase the size of your fences and the complexity of the course.

If you are worried that you or your horse might get bored working on the flat, remember that flatwork is the foundation for your riding no matter what discipline you ride. It’s a good time for you to work on yourself as well, starting you out on the right foot (or hoof) for the season. Work on your position or ride with no stirrups. When your horse is feeling more fit, do some lateral work and get him really listening to your aids so he’s sharp when the time comes to compete.

As far as feed is concerned, as you are reconditioning, the correct feeding program will depend on what your horse’s body condition score is coming out of his break. If he is on the thin side, you will want to increase his feeding rate as you work him harder or include a fat supplement. Make sure to always provide fresh, clean water and free choice hay. If he is on the heavier side of the scale, keep his feeding rate the same but keep an eye on that body condition score as you may need to adjust your feeding rate as he gets back into shape and is working harder.

Fiber Sources for Senior Horses Roy J.

The health and well being of senior horses are important topics to horse owners as these horses are frequently considered treasured members of the family. There are many different criteria that are applied to determining when a horse would be considered a “Senior Horse”. One of the important

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criteria is when we determine that, because of changes in ability to chew pasture or hay, we need to consider different forage options for our old friend. Quidding (spitting out unchewed wads of hay) is one of the signs we look for in making this determination.

Inspection by a veterinarian may confirm that the condition of the teeth requires an adjustment in fiber sources.

Fiber Source Options 1. There are now a variety of senior horse feeds available that can be fed as a complete diet. These feeds are designed with sufficient fiber to help maintain gut heath as well as providing the required energy, protein (amino acid balanced), minerals and vitamins for the balanced diet. They will also normally contain added pre and probiotics to help maintain gut health. For horses with extremely poor teeth, these feeds can be made into a mash as well to make consumption very easy.

2. Dehydrated alfalfa or alfalfa/grass pellets may also be used as a good fiber source. While not a complete balanced ration, these products work well for senior horses as they require minimal chewing.

They can also be soaked to form an easily consumed mash for horses with limited chewing ability. Diet balancer products work well with this type of product to provide the addition amino acids, minerals and vitamins that are required to provide a balanced diet.

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3. Beet pulp is also a good highly digestible fiber source and is a good source of calories. Again, beet pulp is not a balanced ration, but may be added to a diet to provide energy. Beet pulp pellets or beet pulp shreds can also be soaked for ease on consumption.

4. Soy hulls are also a good highly digestible fiber source. Soy hulls are more likely to be used as a part of a Senior Horse Feed rather than being offered as a separate product.

Monitoring body condition score and topline evaluation score can help determine what changes may be needed in the total diet. Loss of body condition score tells us that our senior horse needs more calories.

Loss of muscle mass may tell us we need a better amino acid profile in the diet.

Senior horses also need access to salt, preferably loose salt, free choice and free access to fresh, clean water. Water temperature is important to senior horses as water that is too cold may cause discomfort to badly worn teeth and may limit water intake, which can contribute to other problems such as impaction colic.

Providing an appropriate fiber source is a key management tool to help our old friends enjoy a long and happy life!

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The Effect of Horse Bodyweight on Performance Dr. Krishona Martinson

A recent study conducted by scientists in Sweden and Iceland examined the effect of altered body weight and body fat content on exercise performance and recovery. Nine horses were divided into two groups, and changes in bodyweight and fat content were induced by feeding a high or restricted energy diet. After 36 days, horses were switched to the other diet and the study was repeated. In the last week of each diet, bodyweight and body condition score were recorded, body fat percentage was estimated using ultrasound, and a standardized incremental treadmill exercise test and competition-like field test were performed.

Bodyweight, body fat percentage, and body condition score were higher (5 to 8%) in high energy horses compared to horses fed the restricted energy diet. In the standardized exercise test, horses on the high energy diet performed more poorly and recovered more slowly compared to horses fed the restricted energy diet. Additionally, locomotion asymmetry was greater in horses fed the high energy diet compared to the restricted energy diet. These results confirmed that increased bodyweight and body fat in horses lowered physiological fitness, reduced symmetry, and decreased performance ability. For more information on this research, read the paper published in Physiological Reports at https://physoc. onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.14814/ phy2.14824.

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Woman measuring the girth of a horse. Dr. Krishona Martinson

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