BC Equine Lifestyles Spring/Summer 2018

The Official Member Magazine of Horse Council BC

BC’s

Equine Lifestyle

Spring/Summer 2018 www.hcbc.ca

Disaster preparedness GUIDELINES FOR HORSE OWNERS

Pony Club

Education, Friendship & Fun for all ages

Education Grants

Bringing new learning opportunities across the province

F

E! E R

Equine Facility Design & construction Full Service Master Planning, Site Design and Building New Facilities Retrofits of Existing Facilities Structures:

Barns, Stables, Covered Arenas Viewing Stands, Grandstands Maintenance/Storage Facilities

Infrastructure: Roads, Paths, Gates, Parking

Grading and Drainage Water Supply and Management Manure Management Sanitary/Septic Disposal Site Services/Utilities

Landscape:

Ken Buck, BCSLA, CSLA

Landscape Architect, Equine Design Specialist

1.250.540.3001

Overall Site Planning and Layout Outdoor Arenas/Show Rings Paddocks/Pastures/Trails Fencing/Shelters Landscape Plantings and Gardens Water Features/Ponds/Wetlands Signing/Landmark Features Pavilions, Gazebos, Arbors Walls, Paving, Lighting Irrigation

In This Issue

BC’s

Equine Lifestyle Spring/Summer 2018 is published biannually by HORSE COUNCIL BC 27336 Fraser Hwy., Aldergrove, BC V4W 3N5 T: 604-856-4304 | F: 604-856-4302 Toll Free: 1-800-345-8055 www.hcbc.ca

HORSE COUNCIL BC EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE LIZ SAUNDERS President 250-359-7293

SUSAN HARRISON VP Competition 250-416-0094

CAROLYN FARRIS Treasurer 250-546-6083

TERRE O’BRENNAN VP Recreation 604-940-6958

Nancy Olson-Beaulieu Secretary 604-671-0707

TRACY CARVER VP Membership & Marketing 778-999-7400

STAFF

LISA LAYCOCK Executive Director administration@hcbc.ca ext.1008 KELLY COUGHLIN Senior Program Director Manager, Industry & Agriculture industry@hcbc.ca ext.1006 WENDY SEWELL Manager, Coaching & Education coaching@hcbc.ca ext.1004 ALI BUCHANAN Manager, Competition & Sport competition@hcbc.ca ext.1005

President’s Message

NEWS Did You Know? Additional AD&D is Available Welcome the New HCBC Zone & Affiliate Directors 7 Equestrian Canada Honors BC Coach 8 Pony Tails Kids Club 10 Ticket to Ride!

11 Community Talks Travelling Road Show 2018 5 6

LYNDA ATKINSON VP Industry 250-747-3700 LYNDA ECKSTEIN Membership Coordinator membership@hcbc.ca ext. 1002 SANDY UNDERWOOD Community Development development@hcbc.ca ext. 1010 JOCELYN ADAMS Marketing & Communications Coordinator communication@hcbc.ca ext.1003 LYNN WALLDEN Finance & Grants finance@hcbc.ca ext. 1007

NANCY SPRATT Recreation Coordinator recreation@hcbc.ca ext.1009 FOR A MEDIA KIT AND/OR RATE CARD PLEASE CONTACT COMMUNICATION@HCBC.CA. All material is copyright 2016.

All photographs that depict riders without helmets were taken in competition settings where helmets are not traditionally worn and all riders are over the age of 18. HCBC supports the wearing of approved helmets in all equestrian activity. Ideas and opinions expressed in articles do not necessarily reflect the idea or opinions of HCBC. BC’s Equine Lifestyles reserves the right to accept, and/or edit material submitted for publication. HCBC makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information contained therein, but assumes no liability in cases of error or changing conditions. Any business relations or other activities undertaken as a results of the information contained in BC’s Equine Lifestyles, or arising therefrom, is the responsibility of the parties involved and not of HCBC. We welcome signed letters to the editor, but reserve the right to publish, edit for grammar, taste and length. For reprint information please contact communication@ hcbc.ca.

UPCOMING PUBLICATION DATES Fall/Winter 2017 | October 2018 Spring/Summer 2018 | April 2019 Horse Council BC gratefully acknowledges the financial support of the Province of British Columbia through the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture

FUNDING 11 Education Grants - Bringing new learning opportunities across the province

SPOTLIGHT 14 Canadian Pony Club 16 Disaster Preparedness: Guidlines for Horse Owners

COACHES CORNER 22 Careers with Horses

COMPETITION 25 Participate in the 2018 55+ BC Games in Kimberly/Cranbook!

INDUSTRY & AGRICULTURE 20 Fire Safety for your Barn

Photo Credit: Annie Fercho

SUSAN THOMPSON VP Education 604-943-8155

4

TRAILS & RECREATION 26 Trails Database GPS Mapping & the Share the Trails Workshop

www.hcbc.ca | 3

President’s Message Welcome to “Equine Lifestyles” magazine and a way of life for so many of us. I realize that my fall 2017 message started with a thank you to those who assisted through the disastrous fire season but I think it can stand to be repeated. Thanks again to members, other equine lovers, friends, neighbours and strangers….to those who come to our rescue when the chips are down and we need help.

I am pleased to be able to tell you that the HCBC Animal Disaster Relief Fund system developed by the staff to provide monetary assistance to places and people in need has worked well, thanks to all those donations. HCBC has continued to receive requests for assistance through the winter and has been able to help in most instances. Monies awarded have not distinguished between members and non- members; it has been given to help equines. Thank you all for being so generous and caring.

Oft times we are too proud or too overwhelmed to ask for assistance so those that step forward to help are really appreciated. The generosity of others was reinforced for me over winter when under unusually heavy, wet snow my tractor shed collapsed, disabling my tractor, but friends and neighbours came to the rescue.. keeping my road and yard plowed out until the tractor was fixed and taking on the challenge of fixing the steering mechanism. I am extremely grateful to them. Our West Kootenay winter has been another reminder that nature has a way of keeping us humble no matter what the season.

Trying to keep up with removing the wet snow from ground and buildings has been a challenge this year and I realize that other areas of the Province have also faced the snow challenge. Hopefully everyone has come through relatively unscathed and we can soon forget winter and enjoy the warmth and green grass of spring along with frisky, shedding horses.

The fire situation also heightened our awareness of the importance of having equines recognized as “livestock”. HCBC has been advocating with Government for horses to be clearly and consistently designated as livestock across all of government departments, programs and policies. Currently horses are defined in various categories depending on the situation and government ministry. HCBC has intensified this advocacy since the fires, as the lack of designation caused major problems with horses during evacuations. The lack of understanding and designation by Government meant that evacuations were somewhat chaotic as local organizations were not equipped with the knowledge or skills to handle moving large animals, which meant that people with horse trailers were often going to a farm when all the horses had already been evacuated, while other areas were in desperate need, but had no trailers there to move the horses. In some cases those on evacuation order that had left horses behind in the rush of evacuation were not allowed back home to feed their “livestock” (horses) adding to everyone’s stress in an already stressful situation.

4 | Equine Lifestyles Spring/Summer 2018

Horse Council represents and/or supports all equine interests at the Provincial level including various disciplines, breeders and breed groups, agriculture, the “right to ride”, the preservation of trails, recreational users, grass roots competition, most recently racing and more but most importantly it is an advocate for the health, care and welfare of all equines. Industry and Agricultural do not usually receive the attention that other aspects of the equine community do but the work done in these departments is vitally important to the entire BC herd and their owners. They bring up to date information on the health, care and welfare of our equines, management of land and pasture and environmental issues. This past summer the depth and understanding of the entire equine industry proved itself invaluable.

Last year Horse Council introduced the ”Community Talks” program in response to the need expressed by members for easier access to knowledgeable speakers talking on science based topics. The program visited three locations across the Province and was well received and a great success everywhere, and so with that in mind 2018 will see the program visit new locations with Prince George, 100 Mile House, Kelowna and Victoria all confirmed. You don’t have to be a Horse Council member to attend these workshops - they are open to anyone. A donation can be made at the door and the proceeds are donated to a local therapeutic riding club.

The Sport BC Awards ceremonies take place in March in Vancouver.

This annual event celebrates the best in Sport in BC and includes the President awards where each Provincial Sport Organization has the opportunity to recognize the volunteerism of a member of their organization. This year HCBC is pleased to honour Carol MacDonald with the President’s Award. Tracy Carver, VP of Marketing will be making the presentation on behalf of Horse Council.

Finally, let’s not forget that HCBC is a member driven not for profit organization. Our members are the reason we exist; 30+ years ago the organization was developed by equestrians from across the Province who saw a need and a place to pool their ideas, share the programs they developed and present a united front to Government.

Since that time Horse Council has grown into the largest Provincial Equestrian Sport organization in Canada, with a competent, dedicated, knowledgeable staff that runs day to day operations.

So thank you loyal members for continuing to support your Provincial Equestrian Organization, thank you Board members and thank you staff members …I am proud to be the President of such a professional and active organization.

Now let’s enjoy an amazing season filled with equine fun and activities.

Liz Saunders HCBC President

DID YOU KNOW? Additional Accidental death & dismemberment is available to HCBC members only We all know keeping our horses safe is a key priority. However, keeping ourselves safe should be as well. The insurance options below may provide some peace of mind. We have an Additional Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) Option that you can purchase.

Why additional ad&d?

This optional AD&D insurance includes fracture and dental coverage, which is not covered by the basic coverage that is included with your Horse Council BC membership. It includes a benefit for Fracture of up to $7,500 (If you were wearing a helmet) and $2,500 (if you were not wearing a helmet) and a benefit for dental up to $5,000. The additional AD&D also provides an additional $50,000 principal sum to your already $30,000 AD&D from the basic coverage. You must be under the age of 75. This additional AD&D insurance option can be purchased through HCBC for $30.00 for the current calendar year.

Protect the whole family Also this is the first year that we have added a Family Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) Option.

This optional AD&D insurance includes all the coverage that the regular Additional Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) policy covers. The additional Family AD&D insurance option can be purchased through HCBC for $90.00 for the calendar year. The same definition of family applies to this coverage as it does to the regular membership. (2 seniors, over the age of 18 and the rest of the family must be 17 and under. Minimum of 3 people per family.)

Worried about an accident?

Included in your Horse Council BC membership is a $5,000,000 liability insurance policy from Capri Insurance. That insurance protects you against lawsuits that can be brought against you for Bodily Injury or Property Damage claims arising out of the personal ownership or personal use of a horse and/or arising out of your participation in most equine related activities.

Also included is a $30,000 (principal sum) Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) policy, this excludes benefit for fracture and dental.

Additional AD&D can be purchased through HCBC for $30 for the year, which includes a $50,000 principal sum and a benefit for fracture of up to $7500/$2500 (helmet/no helmet) and up to $5000 for dental. That’s a lower price than 2016 with an increased benefit for fracture and dental.

More information on automatic and optional insurances that are available through a Horse Council BC membership can be found on our website (www.hcbc.ca) or by contacting Capri Insurance at 1-800-670-1877 and asking for the Equine Department.

www.hcbc.ca | 5

NEWS

Welcome the NEW

HCBC Zone & Affiliate Directors Horse Council BC would like to welcome new and re-elected members to our Board of Directors for 2018: • • • • • •

Zone 1 Director - Arlene Ridge Zone 2 Director - Lynne McPherson Zone 3 Director - Nancy Olson-Beaulieu Zone 5 Director - Allison Bain Zone 6 Director - Jennifer Dawn Pinkerton Horse Trials BC - Julie Johannson

A big thank you to outgoing Directors: Len Kirby, Erin Rowsell, Selena Pellizzari, Debbie Rogal, for your volunteer service to HCBC and members.

Zone AGM & Election Results To review the minutes from your Zone AGM please check out the website: hcbc.ca/index.php/news-events-2/annual-generalmeetings/

HCBC Award Recipients CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL 2017 AWARD RECIPIENTS! 2017 Coach of the Year Derek Huget - Vancouver, BC 2017 Junior Athlete of the Year Anya Levermann - 100 Mile House, BC 2017 Bob James Volunteer of the Year Chelsea Wallach - Prince George, BC Lana Shields - Williams Lake, BC Thank you also to all the nominators for letting us know about the amazing people in our horse industry!

Congratulations to the worthy recipients of the Horse Council BC’s 2017 Awards! Each award winner will receive their award at an event of their own choosing throughout 2018.

Horse Council BC’s annual awards serve to honour outstanding achievement within BC’s equestrian community. These awards acknowledge those who have stood out from the crowd over the past year and who have made a positive impact on the community as a whole. Each award recipient was nominated by two or more other Horse Council BC members.

6 | Equine Lifestyles Spring/Summer 2018

NEWS

Equestrian canada

honors BC Coach

Maeve Drew of Duncan, BC was presented with the Equestrian Canada Competitive Coach of the Year Award at a dinner following Horse Council BC’s Annual General Meeting on March 24th.

Equestrian Canada’s President Meg Krueger was in attendance to present the award to Maeve.

The Competitive Coach of the Year Award is designed to recognize a current and active EC NCCO Coach working with competitive athletes. Someone who respects everyone involved in competition and demonstrates good sportsmanship, focuses on the complete development of their athletes, is a positive role model, have the ability to improve athlete performance, share knowledge with other coaches and continually strive to improve through professional development opportunities.

This is a well-deserved award for Maeve, who puts in many hours teaching her own students on Vancouver Island, as well as teaching many clinics around the province and in the US. In addition to that, Maeve acts as the Horse Trials BC Young Rider Coach Leader and has been responsible for the facilitation of activities for the BC Young Riders Program since 2013. This past year she also acted as Chef D’EQuippe for our BC Team at the North American Junior Young Rider Championships.

Her commitment to creating strong basics and fundamentals allows her riders to come up through the levels with confidence and solid skills. Always encouraging, with a positive attitude, Maeve puts her focus on teaching strong skills and excellent care of the horses.

Being such a positive coach and role model to not just her own students, but riders across the province, and her commitment to building the sport through BC’s Young Riders, makes Maeve a very deserving recipient of this award.

LEARN SOMETHING NEW!

Check out HCBC’s online store at store.hcbc.ca to find great equestrian books, dvds, Equestrian Canada manuals, and safety gear! www.hcbc.ca | 7

NEWS

Pony Tails Free KIDS CLUB Hi! It’s me Alice the Pony

My friends at HCBC told me that we have lots of new members in my Pony Tails Kids Club, so I thought I should re-introduce myself. My name is “Alice the Pony” and I am a Pony. A Pony is smaller than a horse, but much smarter. My humans call me “Alice” or “Pony” and usually I answer to both. But as I am a very special pony, I don’t always answer right away. I am retired now, but I used to teach my human child how to ride. I spent a lot of time teaching her to fall off, just so she could learn to stay on better. I like to write to my Pony Tails Kids Club members and tell them about things my friends and I do, as well as give tips on how to take good care of Ponies plus lots of other fun things.I have my own email address ponytails.alice@hcbc.ca so they can write to me too!

Why not join my friends Oliver, Panama, Howdy and me.. Alice and be a part of the coolest club around!

Do you know a horse crazy kid?

Pony Tails Kids Club is for every child, whether they live in the city or on a farm, whether they already own their own horse or pony or have never touched one before. Horse Council BC wants to make sure all children have the opportunity to experience and learn of all the opportunities that come with the wonderful world of horses! Every month Alice the Pony will send Pony Tails Kids Club members an e-Newsletter showcasing fun facts, activity pages, cool info on horses and ponies, news, events and contests.

Join Horse Council BCs’ FREE Pony Tails Kids Club today!

Visit http://www.hcbc.ca/index.php/programseducation/programs/pony-tails-free-kids-club/rse Or email Alice the pony at ponytails.alice@hcbc.ca

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www.hcbc.ca | 9

NEWS

Ticket to Ride

An Exciting new program coming soon HCBC is developing an innovative new initiative designed to bring new riders and drivers into the world of horses. Called Discover Riding, the concept will launch via a program called Ticket to Ride, which will match people eager to try riding or driving with coaches from around BC. Using a website (discoverriding.ca) linked to hcbc.ca, prospective new riders/drivers will be able to access a coach locator tool, finding Equestrian Canada certified coaches within 100 km of their address. Coaches will be offering one of three experiences: a 30 minute riding lesson; a 30 minute ground lesson; a 30 minute educational barn/facility tour. The website will provide information on what to expect on your first visit, what to wear and more. In addition, the discoverriding.ca website will permanently host a variety of rider resources such as tutorials, articles on equipment, training, barn etiquette and more.

HCBC will be providing a temporary, 24 hour membership including insurance to all who use the tool to book a first encounter with a coach. Riders/drivers can expect a safe and supportive environment under the supervision of qualified professionals, making their first encounter exciting and fun.

The program aims to provide those who’ve always wanted to get into horses, or obtain a horse of their won, the best possible first experience to start them on their journey.

www.discoverriding.ca

10 | Equine Lifestyles Spring/Summer 2018

ks Tal

HCB C

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mmuni t Co

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Horse Council BC is coming to you!

We’re hitting the road and bringing a day of equine education to communities around the province.

Date: Sunday - May 6th, 2018 Time: 10am - 5pm Location: Ramada Plaza Prince George Cost: Admission by donation at the door to Prince George Therapeutic Riding Association.

Topics: • Nutritional Needs for Horses in the Prince George Area • Vaccines & Equine Parasite Management • Breeding & Foaling • Safety for BC Farm Employers & Workers

For more info & to guarantee your seats visit: www.hcbc.ca

www.hcbc.ca | 11

SPOTLIGHT

education grants bringing NEW learning opportunities across the province The Back Country Horseman of BC Skeena-Stikine chapter was given an Education grant to help them host a Liberty clinic which was held at the Thornhill Community Grounds in Thornhill, BC and taught by Heather Nelson. The clinic taught people to interact and understand their horse through the body language of the horse. As one observer aptly put it “learning how to speak horse”.

The $500 grant that BCHBC Skeena-Stikine chapter received helped cover the costs of bring Heather north so the event could take place. If you have an educational event you would like to see happen and your club needs financial aid to manage it please apply for an Education Grant by completing the form found on the HCBC website under Membership/Funding for Members and sending it to finance@hcbc.ca. If you have questions about the grant or wonder if your event meets the criteria please contact Lynn at the HCBC office.

Sixteen teams of horse and person came together for a full day of learning. “Participants were excited to learn new ways of communicating with their horses (& one mule). We all learned how to better use our body language to “talk” correctly and positively with our horses. We are all so used to doing any ground work with halters and lead ropes, it was great to have our horses interact us without any physical connection. We learned what they responded to and how, also, what message our body is telling them. I’ve had several requests for follow up clinics. We had dressage horses, a mini horse, a mule, trail horses, back country horses, horses aged from 1 1/2 yrs to 22, folks from teenage to 77” said Pati Dougan, chair of the organizing committee.

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SPOTLIGHT

A LITTLE BIT ABOUT

Road Safety

Road safety for riders remains a growing concern in our communities, as the urban increasingly intersects with the rural.

When you’ve road-proofed your horse, stocked up on high visibility gear for both of you, and made sure of your rights and responsibilities on the road, what else can you do to promote safety?

Pictured above: road signage on 232nd Street in the Township of Langley, reminding drivers to slow down and move over.

One way to do that is to work with your community planners and managers to improve awareness and signage. Recently, the advocacy group Liveable Roads for Rural Saanich (LRRS) and the District of Saanich took steps to manage speed on their roads by collaborating to design signage that signals, in the words of LRRS: “These roads are different, they are rural and require you to slow down, and expect vulnerable users”.

Municipalities have processes and systems they adhere to strictly to get things done, so a good starting point is to call your local municipal offices and ask to speak to someone about how to work with them on issues like speed and signage.

By offering to be a partner, you’re setting up a good relationship and that’s likely to pay off for riders and municipal managers.

You’re also keeping equestrians on municipal radar in a positive way, which can generate its own results.

For more information on community advocacy for equestrians, email recreation@hcbc.ca

Pictured above: Liveable Roads for Rural Saanich (LRRS) and the District of Saanich newly released signage. www.hcbc.ca | 13

Canadian

pony club

Education, fun & Friendship for all ages

By:Tracy Carver, Canadian Pony Club (BC Division)

Who We Are and What We Do In the BC Lower Mainland there are so many sport activities available for our children and teenagers to participate in, it can be difficult to decide which direction to pursue. As a volunteer heavily involved with the BC Lower Mainland branch of Canadian Pony Club, I am often asked what differentiates Canadian Pony Club from the large variety of riding programs available throughout our region. My answer is always the same: the incredible equine centered education our members receive.

Canadian Pony Club is an organization that focuses on providing an exceptional education in all things equine-related for members ages 6-25. We offer a structured program, featuring not only opportunities to gain riding skills, but also an entire Stable Management program that advances members from entry beginners all the way through to graduate level. We are also piloting a Horsemasters program for adults, which has been met with great enthusiasm. Members do not need to have a horse of their own to join, in fact, many of our riders take lessons in schooling barns and do not have their own mounts.

With over 3000 members and 180 branches nationwide, Canadian Pony Club has been operating for over 80 years.

British Columbia currently has three regions located within the province: British Columbia Lower Mainland (BCLM), British Columbia Islands (BCI) and British Columbia Interior 14 | Equine Lifestyles Spring/Summer 2018

North (BCIN). The BC Lower Mainland has twelve individual branches of CPC, located all throughout the region from Vancouver all the way out to Chilliwack. Each club is diverse and seeks to meet the needs of its membership, some with lesson barns, others logging lessons, and still others that are riding clubs with all members owning their mounts and riding in their lessons together in a group setting.

What is uniform throughout all branches is the CPC Stable Management program that is offered to our members.

Structured similarly to grades in the school system, our members enter the CPC program at an “E” level (entry) and attend lessons focusing both on textbooks and study guides as well as hands on practical experience. Testing is an optional part of our program, with the majority of members choosing to challenge themselves by participating in branch testing to measure the skills and knowledge that they have acquired throughout their pony club year. Those that meet the CPC standard for that level are advanced upward to the next, with most testing one level per year. We begin with E, then advance through the D levels (D, D1, D2) and C levels (C, C1, C2). Successfully passing the C2 level can be likened to achieving a high school diploma in the CPC program. Next are the upper levels – B, B2, A – university level education for our organization, and “A” graduates of our program are not only granted their English Competition Coach and certified to teach, but an A level education is recognized worldwide and provides numerous opportunities for employment in the equine world.

SPOTLIGHT What do we teach our members in our Stable Management program? Everything they need to know to successfully look after their mount. From grooming to nutrition to vet care and emergency first aid, to professionally managing a horse barn, we cover tack care and maintenance, conditioning your horse, conformation and soundness, pasture maintenance, teeth, foot care, and proper horse shoeing. Beginning with the basics, each year builds upon knowledge gained from the previous levels, providing a solid foundation and a well-rounded education to all of our members.

Beyond Stable Management, our BCLM region actively promotes safe riding and competition skills, and regionally provides opportunities for our members to try many varied disciplines: dressage, show jump, Prince Philip Games (gymkhana style games), and even three phase eventing. Outside of our BCLM regional competitions, there are social rides, clinics, and several schooling shows held by our many branches, all open to our BCLM membership. In addition, for those members that qualify, our region sends numerous competitors to represent us nationally in CPC events held annually across the country every summer.

Having fun at Pony Club Camp!

A BCLM Pony Club Group Lesson Heading Out

Not just for kids!

For those of us only discovering pony club as an adult, I have fantastic news. Canadian Pony Club recently introduced their Horsemasters program, an off shoot of their youth oriented program. Similar in structure and content to their internationally recognized pony club program, the Horsemasters program is designed for adults 25 and older and allows adults the same horsemanship education and riding opportunities as our youth.

The introduction of this program was met with resounding success, and our Horsemaster members range from brand new never ridden parents to members who have ridden for years but missed their opportunity to be in pony club when they were younger. The Horsemasters have their own divisions in regional events, and so far have competed in our Quiz competitions, show jump, and dressage regional events.

Canadian Pony Club is an excellent educational organization for youth and adult alike. With so many opportunities available to its members, there is truly something for everyone. The friendships founded in Canadian Pony Club often last a lifetime, and the experiences and lessons learned will help shape a positive future regardless of where that journey leads. For further information about the Canadian Pony Club organization please email tracy@techbits.ca or call (778) 999-7400

Some group learning!

Taking a Break at Prince Phillip Games

www.hcbc.ca | 15

SPOTLIGHT

DISASTER PREPAREDNESS: GUIDELINES FOR HORSE OWNERS

Evacuated horses at PG Agriplex Summer 2017

Plan, Plan, and Plan! Failure to plan is planning to fail This old saying could not be truer when it comes to disaster preparedness and horse owners. In British Columbia there is not a government or disaster agency responsible for the evacuation, transportation and temporary stabling of horses during large-scale incidents. This makes horse owners completely responsible for taking care of their horses. In the case of impending floods, horse owners may have advance notice, so are thereby even more responsible for pre-planning.

Horse Council BC has developed this set of guidelines to help horse owners prepare for the worst. When a flood, earthquake, fire or man-made emergency strikes, the steps you’ve taken ahead of time to protect the safety and well being of your animals can mean the difference between life and death.

It is impossible to cover all situations, and the recommendations covered here may not be suitable for all situations. The information herein is drawn from experiences with past major disasters.

These general guidelines are recommendations intended to help the horse owner prepare for most disasters. It is only intended for use with horses. Your personal preparedness for yourself, your family and your home is not covered in this publication

Long Range Planning • Familiarize yourself with the types of disasters that could occur in your area. Develop a written plan of action for each.

Keep the plan with your important papers. Review your Disaster Plan regularly with everyone involved.

• In a visible location in the stable or barn. Post the following: barn address, phone number, emergency contact numbers and non-emergency numbers and for police , fire and local hospital

16 | Equine Lifestyles Spring/Summer 2018

• Survey your property for the best location for animal confinement for each type of disaster. Identify and designate an farm location that horses will be taken to in the event of a barn fire • Identify food and water sources that do not rely on electricity which could be lost during an emergency • Decide where to take the horses if evacuation from your area becomes necessary • Get to know your neighbours, reach out to your surrounding neighbours and local fire department to develop a plan before an emergency • Photograph the left and right sides of each horse as well as its face and medial and lateral lower legs. Also take a photo of your horse and make sure you are in the picture. This will help with identifying the horse when picking it up from evacuation • Record its breed, sex, age and color. Keep copies with important papers. As an option you can permanently identify your horses by tattoo, brand or microchip. Temporary identification by tags on the fetlocks and halters, painted or etched hooves, or even clipping an ID number onto the horse are also options • Have all your horses records (registration papers, worming, breeding, shots, insurance papers) written down and copied.

Keep copies with your important papers as well as with your disaster plan. Put one set in a zip-lock bag. (More on this further in guideline.) You can also keep this information on your computer or a USB stick. Keep a copy for yourself and put one in the zip-lock bag, as well as with your important papers • Keep vaccinations and boosters up to date • If your horse is on medication keep extra on hand. Record the dates, dosages and types of medications/health products the animal receives. Record dosages and dietary requirements.

Keep copies of this with your important papers and separate disaster plan

SPOTLIGHT

Long range planning cont. prior to evacuation • If you own a horse trailer or van, make sure it is insured and in good condition. Check it regularly for safety! Make sure that the truck you will tow it with is also insured and in good running order. Keep the gas tank full and even keep spare gas on hand • Make sure your horse will load! Practice, practice and then practice some more. The trailer will do no good if you can’t get the horse in

advanced planning

• Get a Zip-lock bag and put in the copies of your horses registration papers, insurance papers, the photographs you have taken, copies of the Identification papers (copies in this guideline). Fill out an index card with your name, address, horses name and description and your vet’s name and phone number. Also add any feeding instructions and special needs.

Wrap this around the horse’s halter with duct tape. Do not put original registration papers in the bag. Write “copy” across the papers. Remember, during an emergency not everyone is honest

• Gather and keep extra feed buckets at your barn. These can be sent with the horse when evacuated

• If your horse is not permanently identified with a microchip or brand, now may be the time to use small animal clippers and clip your phone number onto your horse’s neck. Spray paint or etch the hooves. If your horse is being trailered by someone other than you to the evacuation site, an ID number may be drawn onto the horse with an Auction crayon

• Start to stockpile at least three or more days of feed and hay.

Stockpile medications and supplements. Store extra water in large containers, like rubber garbage bins

• Pack into your trailer, or put aside, all the extra buckets, feed and hay that you have stockpiled for your horses evacuation.

Don’t forget the portable first aid kit

• Keep food and medications in an airtight, waterproof container. Rotate this once every three months • Keep extra bedding on hand

• Transport or prepare to transport your horse to a safe evacuation site. It is best to do this before it is an emergency, even several days in advance. Do not wait until the last minute to remove your animals

• Find extra pitchforks and shovels and keep them on hand. If space allows an extra wheelbarrow may come in handy

• Write down and keep in a safe place, the address of where your horse has been evacuated

• Make and keep some sort of ID tags handy for your horses.

Luggage tags are handy. These can be attached to the halters or manes and tails. Keep these with your disaster preparedness kit

• If you are unable or unwilling to remove your horse, make sure all the preparations to keep them on the property are in place. Make sure that someone knows you are on the property and have your horse with you

• Clearly identify for volunteers which horses should be evacuated first, in the event that all animals cannot be moved.

Make sure all personnel are aware of your wishes

• If you are staying with your horse on the property, take two plywood boards and spray paint on one side of the board “Have Horses, need help!”, On the other side of the board, spray paint “Have horses, OK for now”. Keep these in the barn or near the house. Use them to keep rescue and emergency personnel informed should communication line be severed

• Have a halter and lead rope designated for EACH horse and hang it on the wall outside its stall or on the paddock gates

• Compile a portable First Aid Kit. Keep this with your disaster preparedness kit • Obtain a map of your area and the area you will evacuate your horse to. Familiarize yourself with the area that the evacuation barn is in. Learn the routes. Keep this map with you disaster preparedness kit. Check out the barn you hope to evacuate to in order to make sure that it is suitable.

For more free disaster response/fire safety information contact the office to request Evacuation Stages:

• Write down all the emergency phone numbers; put this in your disaster preparedness kit.

Evacuation Order: You are at risk. Leave the area immediately.

Local police or RCMP enforce evacuation orders.

• Check to make sure all your advance preplanning is still valid.

Evacuation Alert: Be ready to leave on short notice. If you leave before or during this alert, it’s called a voluntary evacuation.

• Put luggage (or similar type) tags with the same information as on index card and braid it into the horse’s mane. Do the same in the tail. Do not tie around the tail

Evacuation Rescind: All is currently safe and you can return home. Stay tuned for other possible evacuation alerts or orders. www.hcbc.ca | 17

SPOTLIGHT

Farm safety -

the best way to stay safe is to be safe By: Wendy Bennett, CRSP Executive Director AgSafe The law of action and reaction applies to farm safety as much as it does to anything else. A single action could cause a serious injury, or result in a “domino effect” of injuries and other damage. This is especially true when you have people and large animals interacting with each other in proximity to areas where non work-related activities are happening producing unfamiliar sounds and sensations.

Imagine this scenario: You have a farrier on site working in the barn across the yard from where a mechanic is working on a truck. The mechanic fires up the truck and it backfires. The horse spooks and kicks out causing the farrier to fall back and injure their wrist. Perhaps there is another handler working with a second horse in a stall in the barn and that horse also spooks injuring the handler.These injuries could have been avoided if the person responsible for day-to-day operations let the farrier, the mechanic and the handler all know that their work was scheduled to be done at the same time in close proximity.Better yet, the operations manager could have scheduled the work to be done at different times of the day or in work spaces safely separated from each other.

It is the operations manager’s responsibility to regularly review work schedules, work environments and safety protocols. When they have concerns they should make a list and ensure that things on the list get addressed before work begins. It is one thing to have regular workplace safety issues addressed, but this also applies to any work on the premises that is not related to daily operations. When custom work needs to be done, take time to have a safety meeting with every worker and contactor that comes on site, explaining what the work is and where it will be carried out.

Pay special attention to young workers, new workers and volunteers. They are more at risk of injury resulting from inexperience, inadequate training, orientation, and lack of hazard awareness. Take time to ensure that training and orientation is specific to the work and the work space.

Supervise their activity until they become competent. Training and orientation should be an ongoing process, especially if there is a change in job responsibilities or work space location.

Young workers, new workers and volunteers are also less likely to ask questions if they do not understand the situation.

Implement an “open door” policy so that any worker on your farm feels comfortable asking questions about their assignment and safety concerns.

18 | Equine Lifestyles Spring/Summer 2018

If you are an employer, manager or operator you are responsible for creating and managing a safe environment for everyone who comes onto your property. Pro-active communication and planning are key to meeting this responsibility.

The best way to stay safe is to be safe.

What employers can do • Establish an occupational health and safety program.

• Provide your workers with the education, supervision and training specific to your workplace.

• Provide workers with properly maintained and fitted protective devices, equipment and clothing, and ensure workers use them.

• Correct any workplace conditions that are hazardous and inform your workers about any remaining hazards.

• Ensure that your workers know their rights and r esponsibilities under, and comply with the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation.

• Consult and cooperate with your joint health and safety committee or worker health and safety representative.

About AgSafe: For over twenty years AgSafe has been the expert on safety in the workplace for British Columbia’s agriculture industry and offers site-specific health and safety programs, training, evaluation and consultation services.

For more information about AgSafe services or agriculture workplace safety call 1-877-533-1789 or visit www.AgSafeBC.ca.

Free On-Site Safety Training and Consultation When and Where You Need Us

SAFETY TRAINING SAFETY TOOLS PROFESSIONAL ADVICE COR CERTIFICATION ON-SITE & ONLINE SUPPORT

Let us help you

get started now

contact@agsafebc.ca 1.877.533.1789 (toll free)

25TH ANNIVERSARY 1993-2018

www.AgSafeBC.ca www.hcbc.ca | 19

INDUSTRY & AGRICULTURE

Fire Safety for Your Barn electrical

• Make sure all wiring is of adequate size • Make sure it is tight, well supported, stapled and out of reach of the horses • Extension cords should be heavy duty, grounded and not subject to trampling. Extension cords are for temporary use Additional circuits should be provided when required • All outlets should have their protective covers in place • Main panels should be kept clear of storage • Fixtures should be tight and well supported • Excessive dust and cobwebs should not be allowed to accumulate on light bulbs, wiring, etc.

• Electrical space heaters must be kept clear of combustibles and should be equipped with automatic tip switches

flammable liquids

• Should be segregated to their own separate, well ventilated storage area • Spills should be cleaned up immediately and disposed of outside • Never allow fertilizers near flammable or combustible liquid storage

smoking

• Should not be allowed inside or near your barn • Post No Smoking signs

hay storage

• Should be kept tidy • Storage should stay a minimum of 18” away from light bulbs and other heat producing fixtures

workshops

• Should be fully separated by gyproc walls from barn areas • Wherever possible cutting, welding, and grinding should be done outside

20 | Equine Lifestyles Spring/Summer 2018

open flames

• Water heaters, furnaces, etc should be located away from dust producing areas • When hot shoeing, the farrier’s forge should be outside or the area cleaned of combustibles and the forge placed on a noncombustible surface • Outdoor burning should always be at least 100 feet away from barn

Spontaneous Heating

• Normally associated with the storage of damp hay, but also may occur in sawdust, grain, used burlap bags, fertilizers, charcoal or rags contaminated with organic oils (linseed, teak, walnut, cod liver, etc) • Make sure hay is well cured before baling and storage.

Hay salt can be used in some cases although it presents no guarantee to control heating • Other products subject to spontaneous heating should be stored in cool, dry locations

General Housekeeping

• Dust and cobwebs allow rapid spread of fire and can quickly turn a small fire into a large one • Trash should be put in non-combustible containers and disposed of regularly • Tack rooms should always be neat and tidy • Always keep doorways and alley ways clear of debris • Keep latches in good working order • Install smoke detectors in strategic areas

Emergency Planning

Every barn, the same as every home, needs a Fire Plan. Each structure is different, but some of the things to think about are: • Post the Fire Departments ,veterinarian phone number and barn address in a conspicuous place • There must be access for Firefighting. The trucks must be able to get within 200 feet of buildings, be aware of overhanging trees, fences, gates, ditches etc.

INDUSTRY & AGRICULTURE

Emergency Planning cont.

• How to get the horses out, where to put them and keep them out • Fire extinguishers on hand and know how to use them • Water source • Address clearly posted on property

practice! have a fire drill

• A drill should be performed at least once a year and, if personnel change a lot, twice a year • During the drill you will have an opportunity to spot trouble areas (crowded doorways), unruly animals, etc. Also it will give you a chance to time how long it takes to empty the barn with 1, 2 or 3 people • Change the drill occasionally so that in case one particular door is blocked, there is an alternate route • A weekly fire patrol is also a good idea to see that all routes and holding areas are maintained • Don’t forget your neighbors, especially those without horses.

In case of fire, they may mean the difference between the horses living or not if no one else is around. Get them involved and give them a chance to handle the horses and know what to do

The escape plan only works if the people involved know what the plan is and how to use it.

horse training

Train your horse to lead from the right and left side with only a rope around its neck. The Training should make the horses: • Used to strangers and the Fire Department if involved. (lights, turnout gear, sirens, noise) • Used to smoke. (this is an option the Fire Dept. may use.)

• Used to being put out with other horses • Used to hoods, blankets, water etc.

equipment

There is a variety of equipment that can be on hand; • hoods, blankets, • ropes • halters • towel • gloves • special releases for Red Hot Metal Latches • flashlight • shovel • crowbar • axe to break open locked or stuck doors • fire extinguisher • A rope may be the best tool in case of fire. It may be impossible to put a halter on a scared horse, but you can put a rope around its neck if there is one handy. There should be a rope kept at each stall door for Emergency Use only

A well thought out fire safety plan is the best defense against loss and injury.

Have a plan, put it in writing and review it regularly!

Give all those who may play a part, a chance to do what may be necessary in case of fire. Have the necessary horse equipment on hand and in place at all times.

When in doubt about your personal safety, STAY OUT! Call the fire department before you do anything else.

Use of smoke machines by the Fire Department does two things, it helps settle the horses down if the real thing happens, and helps handler’s spot potential problem horses. The more experienced handlers could then work with these horses.

Call your local Fire Department for an inspection and fire drill.

www.hcbc.ca | 21

COACHES CORNER

CAREERS WITH HORSES looking toward the future A 2009 survey conducted by Horse Council BC found that the horse industry generates $740 million dollars in economic activity in BC and also found that there were 7200 full time jobs with $31.2 million in employment income. These numbers are on the rise, indicating that the Horse Industry is growing and thriving. The option of a career in the growing horse industry can be a reality.

Students can consider the options within the Veterinary/ Health Care field as well as human athlete health services.

Employment options in this field require training and a degree (or two!) and a significant amount of post-secondary education.

Receiving training and diplomas from reputable and accredited institutions is critical in this field. Career choices within this field could include:

A career or employment in the horse industry is often the goal of graduating High School students. Post-Secondary education is important even if it is not specifically equine related. Business courses, web design, promotion and public relations courses and degree’s give a good base of knowledge that will help your business grow. Bookkeeping and math skills are extremely important when you are your own boss. Post-Secondary education can help you find employment while you pursue your Equestrian employment goal. Some equine business choices can happen right out of school and others may happen later in life with experience. Many adult equestrians want to be self-employed or are looking for a new career where they can follow their passion and use their skills.

• • • • • • • •

There are many pathways to find potential careers in the horse industry. The goal of this article is to suggest some choices that are common and others that are “outside the box” suggestions.

It is important to note that any career pathway involves time, training, passion and commitment.

22 | Equine Lifestyles Spring/Summer 2018

Veterinarian Lab Technician Massage Therapist (human or equine) Farrier Nutritionist (human or equine) Veterinary Assistant Sports Therapist Sports Psychologist

There are many options that allow you to work directly with horses each day. These employment or business choices require training, education, certification or a record of proven competency in order to succeed. Mentoring with an established professional is extremely beneficial.

• • • • •

Coach or Instructor Groom Trainer Exercise rider/professional competition rider Therapeutic Riding Instructor

COACHES CORNER The service industry has many opportunities for a horse enthusiast. Retail is a recognizable choice. It is also possible to turn your hobby to a full or part time career. Ideas to consider are varied.

• Saddle and Tack Repair • Saddle fitter • Home based sewing or equine crafts • Embroidery and screen printing • Competition Ribbon and Awards maker • Tack store owner/employee • Feed store owner/employee • Equine Fashion designer/creator Working in Media can lead to an enjoyable career with horses.

There are many different ways to accomplish this.

• Web Design • Graphic Artist • Photographer/Videographer • Writer (book, magazine, blog) • Equestrian Artist • Promotion and Public relations

Equi-tourism is a growing field that allows you to work with horses, enjoy trail riding, the outdoors and hosting visitors.

• Guide Outfitter • Dude Stable owner/operator • Bale and Breakfast operator • Riding Camp owner/operator Within the Competition system there are many jobs and careers to consider.

• Official judge/steward • Course Designer • Competition Manager/secretary • Competition Commentator/Announcer

You can also consider careers in equine related operations.

Horse owners all need these services at some point.

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Construction (barn, fence, arena, jumps) Tax and Bookkeeping Facility owner/operator/manager Freelance Barn cleaner Barn Manager Barn worker Horse sitting Real Estate Agent Hay or Grain farming Horse Transporter Movie Wrangler Equine Insurance Specialist Equine Appraiser Veterinary office secretary/receptionist Equine Specialist Lawyer

This is a snapshot of potential Equine Industry employment choices that you can pursue. One example of equine employment is at Horse Council BC where staff include a bookkeeper, media specialist, secretary/receptionist and technical experts in Competition, Industry, Recreation and Coaching.

If you are creative and have a vision of where you want to be and what you want to do, you can turn your passion for horses into a fulfilling career. Many career choices demand hard work and tenacity, others artistic vision and some years of volunteering before becoming a paid career.

By looking inside and outside of the box while thinking about your skills and interest, there can be a place for you to work within the horse industry.

www.hcbc.ca | 23

The #IMONTHEQUEST sweepstakes invites horse owners across Canada to share their favourite photos of their horse(s) for a chance to win one of three grand prizes of $500, $300 and $200 in credit to spend at their veterinary clinic as well as weekly draws, from April 2 to June 4, 2018.

MANAGE | TEST | PLAN | DOSE Talk to your veterinarian about the parasites that can live inside your horse and how these 4 steps will help to maintain your horse’s health.

Visit us on Facebook @ZoetisEQCanada Zoetis® and Quest® are registered trademarks of Zoetis or its licensors, used under license by Zoetis Canada Inc. © 2018 Zoetis Canada. All rights reserved.

24 | Equine Lifestyles Spring/Summer 2018

PARTICIPATE IN THE 55+ BC GAMES! The 55+ BC Games is an annual multi-sport event produced by the BC Seniors Games Society for the availability of the “Active for Life” community to participate in the 23 individual sports. The average participation is 3,500 people, leaving behind a $3.5 M economic impact in the community.

Tuesday, September 11th to Saturday, September 15, 2018.

Venue: RDEK Wycliffe Exhibition Grounds, Kimberley/ Cranbrook, 5325 Staples Road, Wycliffe, BC V1C 7C3 For more information contact: Valerie at email: info@55plusbcgames.org P:604-992-4281 or HCBC Office – Toll Free 1-800-345-8055 x 1005 email: competition@hcbc.ca Official 55+ BC Games Website: https://www.55plusbcgames.org

2018 EQUESTRIAN DISCIPLINES Dressage – Training Level, First Level, Second Level Western Dressage – Walk/ Jog Level, Training Level, First Level Mountain Trail Horse – Novice / Open Western Performance – Ranch Riding Horse & Ranch Trail Horse

HOW TO REGISTER Follow Instructions for Equestrian sport at https://www.55plusbcgames.org/registration For inquiries, registration assistance, or your Zone Sport contact information you can contact Valerie email: info@55plusbcgames.org p:604-992-4281 HCBC Office @ Toll Free 1-800-345-8055 ext. 1005

REGISTRATION DEADLINE JUNE 15, 2018

TRAILS & RECREATION

HIT THE TRAILS!

TRAILS DATA BASE GPS MAPPING SYSTEM In partnership with Back Country Horsemen of BC, HCBC Recreation is undertaking a project to add geo-referenced mapping to the trails in its trail database. This long-term project will add considerable value to the trail maps and details already available.

Geo-referenced map applications allow you to navigate using your mobile device’s Global Positioning System (GPS) even without cell signal reception. The downloadable trail maps, once geo-referenced, will display mileage, elevation profiles, slope, time to complete ride, and more information such as trailhead location and amenities. Trail riders will be collecting GPS data and forwarding it to HCBC for upload to the relevant trail. Recreation is planning to offer prizes to collectors who create the most trail maps in a season.

For more information on the Share the Trails Workshop and the trail geo-referencing project, contact recreation@hcbc.ca

SHARE THE TRAILS WORKSHOP 2018 Horse Council BC’s annual Share the Trails Workshop, a collaborative project with the Outdoor Recreation Council of BC, will be held on Vancouver Island this year for the first time - the Coast Bastion Hotel in Nanaimo will host the event.

We look forward to timely discussion as we focus on the theme of mixed use/multi-user trails, access to public lands in private hands, and the up and coming development of e-bikes on our trails.

The goals of this workshop series include: • Facilitating discussion about sharing trails • Bringing together diverse recreation user groups • Cross-pollinate ideas • Facilitation of learning opportunities about topics of interest to the outdoor recreation community • Identification of areas of shared interest and areas of potential disagreement.

This forum aims to build partnerships between outdoor recreation groups, government and First Nations, to bring together diverse users of trails, and to explore options for more effective use of trails.

The Share the Trails Workshop series has generated significant direct results, including the formation of the Chilliwack Recreation Advisory Group (CRAG) in 2010 and more recently the formation of the Rail Trails Steering Committee in 2017, which was formed to consider the sharing of the rail trails in Southern BC.

26 | Equine Lifestyles Spring/Summer 2018

Photo: Annie Fercho submitted to Focus on Trails Photo Contest 2017

BC SUMMEr Games 2018 ARE YOU A BC RIDER OR VAULTER BETWEEN THE AGES OF 11 & 18?

Be part of the Equestrian Team at the BC Summer Games in Cowichan! Qualify for the BC Summer Games at local qualifier shows around the province from now until June 2018.

19-22

July

2018

DRESSAGE - PARA-DRESSAGE - JUMPING - VAULTING Age Group: Minimum of 11 and a maximum of 18 years of age as of January 1, 2018.

Zone Team Composition: 4 Athletes per zone - 8 zones in total.

Wildcards: 16 wildcard spots in addition to the zone team spots For more information on the BC Summer Games, Visit:

HCBC.CA