December 2022 Digital Edition

Horse Review

HORSE HEALTH

PEOPLE & HORSES

YOUNG RIDERS

Alabama: Fayette Farmers Co-op, Fayette Seven Springs Lodge, Tuscumbia

Arkansas: University of Arkansas Division of Ag Research & Ext., Jonesboro A-State Equine Center, Jonesboro City Feed, West Memphis Delta Farm Products, Wynne

Kentucky: Stockdale’s, Bowling Green KY Lake Trailer Sales, Calvert City State Line Ranch Supply, Hazel Inter. Museum Of The Horse, Lexington

Mississippi:

Mattox Feed Mill, Aberdeen Griffin Feed, Baldwyn Latham’s Boots, Batesville Panola Co. Co-op, Batesville Tractor Supply Co., Batesville Tractor Supply, Boonville

Mid-South Ag, Byhalia

Blue Ribbon Riding Academy, Canton Mullins Farm Supply, Charleston Edwards & Son, Coffeeville

Hawkeye Feed Mill, Coldwater Lowndes Farm Supply, Columbus Tri-County Feeds, Como

Alcorn County Co-op, Corinth Winterview Farm, Flora Boots N More, Florence

Cross Country Seeds, Grenada El-Kidd Western Wear, Hamilton

Tri-County Farm Services, Hernando Desoto County Co-Op, Hernando Complete Home Center, Hernando Side Alley Gifts, Hernando

Louie’s Pharmacy, Hernando Magnolia Lighting, Hernando Southern Eatery, Holly Spings

Marshall County Fairgrounds, Holly Springs

Cooper Feed & Fertilizer, Holly Springs

Sports Corral, Holly Springs

Bi County Farm Supply, Holly Springs Ware Farm Services, Houston

Todd’s Feed & Hardware, Independence

Animal’s Choice Vet Clinic, Iuka

Boots N More, Jackson Edge Horse and Tack, Moorville

O C Leatherworks, New Albany

Tractor Supply, New Albany

Full Circle Equine Vet, Olive Branch

Frontier Western Store, Olive Branch

Equine Vet Associates, Olive Branch Co-Op, Olive Branch

North Grove Equestrian Park, Oxford Oxford Farm and Ranch, Oxford Tractor Supply, Oxford Reeder Farm Supply, Pontotoc Moore’s Feed, Pontotoc Harvest Feed, Red Banks Ripley Feed, Ripley Reed’s Metals, Saltilo Scruggs Home & Garden, Saltilo Tractor Supply Co., Senatobia Tate County Co-Op, Senatobia Agri Farm & Ranch, Shannon Cavender’s Boots, Southaven Paul Battle Arena, Tunica Tractor Supply Co, Tupelo Tupelo Farm & Ranch, Tupelo

Tomlinson Farm & Building Supply, Walnut Woods Farm Supplies, Watson Clay Co. Co-op, West Point

Tennessee: AG & Nag Supply, Adamsville

Mid-South Farmers Co-op, Alamo Ashland City Co-op, Ashland City AG Central, Athens

Bedford Tack, Bell Buckle Circle E Quest Ranch, Belvidere

Mid-South Farmers Co-Op, Bolivar Stockdale’s, Bolivar Tractor Supply, Bolivar

Tractor Supply Co., Brentwood Boot Barn, Brentwood

Tennessee Tractor, Brownsville Tractor Supply, Brownsville

Brunswick Feed, Brunswick Brunswick Kitchen, Brunswick Benton Co. Co-op, Camden

Hickman Feed & Farm, Centerville Tractor Supply Co., Clarksville

Bonnie’s Barnyard, College Grove

Tractor Supply Co., College Grove Silver Caboose Café, Collerville Hewlett & Dunn, Collierville

Hall’s Feed & Seed Store, Collierville Tractor Supply, Collierville United Farm & Home Co-Op, Columbia

Buckaroo Hatters, Covington Tractor Supply, Covington Stockdales, Covington

Bob’s Feed & Fertilizer, Crossville Tennessee Farrier Supply, Cumberland Furnace Gin Lot, Dancyville Decatur Farmers Co-op, Decaturville Gibson Co-op, Dyer

Tennessee Tractor, Dyersburg Tractor Supply Co., Dyersburg Pennington’s Feed, Dyersburg Tennessee Equine Hospital, Eads First Choice Farm & Lawn, Eads Stewart Bros, Ellendale Humphreys Co. Co-op, Erin Franklin Equine Services, Franklin Brownland Farm, Franklin Dover Saddlery, Franklin Franklin Horse Supply, Franklin Tractor Supply Co., Franklin Saddles & Such, Germantown Agricenter Showplace Arena, Germantown Gibson. Co. CO-OP, Greenfield Tipton Farmers Co-op, Halls Roan State Expo Center, Harriman First Farmers CO-OP, Henderson Tractor Supply Co., Henderson Stockdale’s, Hickson Hohenwald Animal Hospital, Hohenwald Lewis County Co-Op, Hohenwald Horse Stop, Hohenwald Gibson Co-op, Humboldt Goodrich Arena, Humboldt

Carrol Farmers Co-op, Huntingdon The Cowboy Store, Huntingdon

Loretta Lynn’s Dude Ranch, Hurricane Mills

Deming Veterinary Service, Jackson

My Animal Hospital, Jackson Reed’s Metals, Jackson

Mid-South Farmers Co-op, Jackson Rustic Soul Western Wear, Jackson R & J Feed Store, Jackson Tractor Supply, Jackson Southeast Pack Trips, Jamestown East Fork Stables, Jamestown

Old Town Saddlery, Jonesborough

Sonny Brook Stables, Knoxville Agra-Feed Supply, Knoxville

Unv of TN Inst Ag Vet Med, Knoxville Tractor Supply, Knoxville Penrose Farm, Knoxville

Tractor Supply, Lakeland

Digger O’Dell’s Nursery, Lakeland

Tennessee Farmers Cooperative, LaVergne

First Farmers CO-OP, Lexington

Tractor Supply Co., Lexington

Perry Co. Farmers Co-op, Linden

Weakley Farmers Co-op, Martin

Univ Of TN Martin Elam Center, Martin

Coyote Run Arena, Mason

McKenzie Feed & Grain, McKenzie Novel of Lauralwood, Memphis Raleigh Feed Store, Memphis JP Shelly and Son, Middleton

Tractor Supply, Milan Tractor Supply Co., Millington

MTSU Horse Science, Murfreesboro

Horseman’s Supply, Murfreesboro

Rutherford Farmers Co-Op, Murfreesboro Miller Coliseum, Murfreesboro

Walnut Trace Farm, Nashville

Parnassus Books, Nashville

Thompson’s One Stop New, Johnsonville Gibson Co-op, Newburn

Josh Quinn / CrossRoads Ranch, Nolensville Stockdales, Oakland

Obion Farmers Co-op, Obion Henry Co. Farmers Co-op, Paris New Hope Saddles, Ripley

Animal Care Hospital, Ripley Ripley Farm Store, Ripley

First Farmers Co-op, Savannah

Rogers Farm Supply, Scotts Hill Stockdale’s, Selmer

Select Trailers, Shelbyville

Somerville Farm Supply, Somerville Teague Store, Somerville

Reed Bros. Feed & Seed, South Fulton

Tractor Supply Co., Thompson’s Station

Equine Performax-Jaeckle Center, Thompsons Station

Tennessee Equine Hospital, Thompsons Station

Tennessee Tractor, Trenton Gibson Co-op, Trenton

Obion Farmers Co-op, Union City Blackberry Farms, Walland Humphreys Co. Co-op, Waverly

Waynes Farmers Co-op, Waynesboro Rawhide Feed Store, Whiteville Beckerman’s, Whiteville

Publisher’s Note

A look towards the New Year

December 2022

Volume 36 | Number 4

Publisher & Owner

Lauren Pigford Abbott labbott@mshorsereview.com 901- 279- 4634

Office & Accounts Manager

Andrea Winfrey andrea@mshorsereview.com 901-867-1755

Advertising & Marketing Consultant

Alicia Johnson alicia@mshorsereview.com 901-337-7786

Social Media & Marketing info@mshorsereview.com

Contributing Writers & Photographers

As the year draws to a close I cannot help but look back at the anticipation I had early in the year. I had two new be ginnings: becoming a mom and becoming a business owner. People say nothing can prepare you for motherhood. I am sure many business owners feel the same way about business ownership. Still, I prepared as much as possible for both ma jor life changes.

Becoming a mother was a natural transition for me. I personally believe all my years caring and taking care of horses gave me my maternal instincts. I also believe being a “young” 39-year-old, first-time mom gave me appreciation and gratitude for the entire process. There was a time when I did not think I was going to be a mom. When I became one, nothing was going to damper that joy.

I know motherhood is not natural for some women. Most assume all women have maternal instincts, but that is not the case. There is nothing natural about sleepless nights, colicky babies, and becoming a caregiver. It is a process. I believe the unknown is what makes being a new mom and dad diffi cult and stressful. During the first two months of my daugh ter’s life I had unsettling anxiety at bedtime. The moment I started my daughter’s bedtime routine the anxiety would begin: “Would she fall asleep, would she stay asleep, would I get sleep, would she roll over and stop breathing?!” You know, the typical thoughts new parents have with newborns.

digital web banners that could be tracked was one of my top priorities.

Redesigning the print issue was on the top of my priority list as well. I wanted to update the entire brand, the look, and the voice to appeal to all equestrians throughout our wide and diverse region. Making these updates was not discard ing the work done before me. It was a strategy to make the print issue timeless and to make our website timely. I wanted to grow the publication’s engagement with you, the read ers. My strategy behind the enhancements was to give loyal readers and customers timeless content with elegant designs to enhance stories. It also helped introduce the brand to new readers, eyeballs and potential advertising clients and part ners.

In 2023 we are adding distribution locations in Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana and Kentucky. What we have noticed is our issues are being picked up quickly at the start of each month. This has confirmed the strategies put in place have helped grow our reach and readership in print and online. I am extremely grateful to all our advertisers for maintaining their relationship and partnership with the Horse Review and with me as the new owner. I am extremely grateful for you, the readers. Those of you who have written and emailed me with positive feedback and those of you who have offered suggestions and constructive recommendations; I take them all to heart and my work is extremely personal to me.

Michele Harn Juliana Chapman Gary Cox Paul Nolte Chris Cooper Main Office: 6220 Greenlee St. Suite 4 Arlington, TN 38002 901-867-1755 Published by Ford Abbott Media, LLC

As I bonded with my daughter, and recognized her word less ques, my anxiety started to dissipate. I had to get to know her. With every new stage, the fear of the unknown pops in my mind and I have to start giving myself pep talks on how “I got this,” which is my go-to in business as well.

In June when I transitioned to the new owner of the MidSouth Horse Review, I had a very clear vision of things I wanted to do with this publication. I knew I needed to work on updating the website so we could deliver articles daily if needed. I also knew several advertising clients wanted more digital advertising options, so having a website that served

We will have new sections in 2023. Our From the Experts section will follow our Horse Health section. From the Ex perts will have educational articles from partnerships we developed in the second half of this year. We look to bring content covering nutrition for better equine management and educational articles on how to keep us, equestrians, physical ly fit and healthy.

We will also have a new section, Behind the Business, where we will spotlight and feature equine businesses and professionals. Instead of focusing on reviews of products we will feature the people behind the businesses, products, books and art. I want to feature those who keep our equine community thriving: the business owners, the technology gu rus, the authors of books, artists, horse show photographers, nutrition experts, health care professionals and the profes sional equestrians teaching the next generation of riders and the ones riding at the top shows throughout the nation.

My goal is to work hands-on with all our advertisers to help enhance their businesses and bring them more brand awareness and potential new clients, especially during dif ficult economic times. It is important for me to listen to ad vertisers’ needs and provide solutions to problems through effective marketing and advertising.

email: info@mshorsereview.com

email: andrea@mshorsereview.com www.midsouthhorsereview.com

If you have questions, concerns, feedback and recom mendations please email or call me personally. I am always available to listen and learn more about how our community needs the Horse Review to be the voice, the storyteller and the resource for all horse lovers throughout our region. I look forward to bringing stories to you in the New Year. I wish you a Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year!

Pigford Abbott Publisher & Owner

Lauren

Abbott with her husband, Chad, and daughter, Joey.

Horse Health

The Great Shoe Debate

By Michele Harn, M.S.

The thermometer, shorter days, and your horse’s shaggy coat all confirm winter is here. It may not be as evident, but your horse’s hooves face seasonal changes too. Slow er growth and changes in the environment can present new challenges to maintaining healthy hooves.

Most horses experience slower hoof growth during the winter months. If your horse is barefoot, your farrier may suggest a longer time between trims. However, horses with shoes may stay on the same schedule as the summer months. Talk with your farrier about your horse’s hoof care needs over the winter time.

Even if your horse is off from work over the winter you should regularly groom and pick out the hooves looking for any abnormal appearance or smell of the foot. Thrush infect ed hooves have a very strong, foul smell with thick, black discharge around the frog. Horses kept in muddy, dirty pens are more prone to thrush infections. Keeping the dry lot, stalls, and run-in sheds clean will help to avoid thrush.

Wet weather can cause increased bacterial and fungal hoof problems like thrush and white line disease. Since the ground in the mid-south doesn’t usually freeze, these organ isms go unchecked. It is helpful to have a dry area for your horse such as a stall or run-in shed to give hooves an oppor tunity to dry out if your outside pens are wet. Hooves that stay wet are susceptible to infections and soft hoof walls loose shoes more easily.

Many horses benefit from time without shoes. Circulation and physiology differ when horses are barefoot. Winter can

be a good time to pull shoes, especially if your horse is on a break from regular riding. Your farrier can recommend a plan for switching to barefoot hooves if it is advised. Dr. Mark Akin, DVM says, “there are some horses who may benefit from having their shoes pulled. Those are horses with quarter cracks, center cracks, or other pathology which by pulling the shoes actually helps. If the horse doesn’t have hoof pathology and routinely wears shoes, then I leave them on.” He further stresses the importance of regular trimming whether shod or barefoot. For brittle hooves he recommends a hoof dressing like Rainmaker, and a feed supplement that contains biotin, methionine, and copper to foster good hoof growth.

Greg Speltz, farrier in the Greater Memphis Area, keeps clients on the same schedule in the winter. He maintains a 5 week schedule year-round with changes based on the indi vidual horse. He tells horse owners to keep feet picked out during hard freezes when horses are turned out. Speltz says, “uneven, frozen ground puts horses at risk for abscesses and sole bruises.” Much of his current clientele have hors es that compete most of the year, so they don’t pull shoes. “Generally it takes longer than one to two trim cycles of the horse’s feet to acclimate to being barefoot,” so he advises against pulling shoes for short periods of time. If shoes do get pulled, he recommends pulling the hind shoes first, then pulling the front shoes after the horse’s hind feet are adjust ed to being barefoot.

Whether your horse is shod or barefoot, winter is no time to back off on regularly cleaning the hooves and giving them a good inspection. As with all areas of horse management, regular care keeps your horse happy and healthy.

By Michele Harn, M.S

Winter arrived hard and fast in mid-November this year. Did you find yourself rummaging around for a turnout blanket? Was it cleaned and repaired after last winter and ready to use? Maybe your horse had already grown a thick, protective coat making a blanket unnecessary. The peren nial question, to blanket or not, is one most equestrians grapple with when cold Northern winds blow. How does blanketing affect the horse’s winter coat? While it is true that a blanket will flatten your horse’s nat urally fluffy coat, it isn’t necessarily a permanent change. Some experts will suggest that wearing a blanket for more than a week weakens the insulating value of the winter coat. Some heavy winter coats will fluff up a few days af ter the blanket is removed. If your horse’s coat remains flat after several days, you may be committed to blanketing for much of the cold season.

Check underneath regularly. If your horse wears a blan ket most of the winter, it is important to remove the blan ket at least weekly to look for rub sores, body condition, lumps, and skin health. This is true for non-blanketed, fuzzy horses too. Those with PPID (pituitary pars interme diate dysfunction, aka Cushing’s) and horses with dense, long winter hair need a hands-on physical exam weekly too. Winter hair and blankets can hide weight changes, skin issues, or injuries. Dig your hands down through the thick winter hair to feel for condition changes to avoid sur prises when the winter hair sheds out.

Weather - Rain and wind are primary considerations for the horse. Mid-south horses aren’t likely to experience ex tremely cold temperatures as winter weather here tends to be wet and moderate. Just as a blanket reduces the winter coat’s natural insulating value, a wet coat has almost no insulating value. As we all know, wind makes a body feel cold, so providing a wind- and rain-proof shelter will help your horse keep warm, blanketed or not. Many horses like to stay out of a run-in shelter even when provided, but will find the side that blocks the wind. Some horses stand out in the rain because of noise on the shelter roof. Horses are prey animals that rely on their hearing and sight for safety, so they can be nervous under a noisy roof. Providing a waterproof blanket will keep your hose dry and warm until the sun is back out.

Relocating - Horses that move from deep south to far north and visa versa, can take a few years to learn how much coat to grow in the winter. If you recently purchased a horse from the deep south, you may have to use a blanket for the first winter if temperatures fall below 41 degrees. Horses have a lower critical temperature that ranges from 41 degrees for horses acclimated to mild climates, to 5 de grees for unclipped horses in extreme northern climates. When the thermometer falls below these temperatures, a horse has to expend energy to maintain it’s body tempera ture. A blanket will not only keep the horse warm, but also avoid the need to use calories to maintain his temperature. Weight of Blanket - Temperatures here can swing widely from nighttime to afternoon. While a mid to heavy weight blanket might be appropriate when temperatures dip into the 20’s, the sun can bring temps into the 40’s or high er during the day. Over blanketed horses will sweat and a wet coat is chilling. Many horses can have their blanket removed on a warm day and then used at night as needed. Having a variety of blanket weights (sheet, medium fill and heavy fill) will keep your horse comfortable as tem peratures go up and down. Putting a cooler (fleece or wool) on your horse if he is sweaty after riding will keep him from getting chilled as his hair dries. Never put a turnout blanket on a wet horse; he will tend to stay wet. When

consider ations for the horse. Midsouth horses aren’t likely to experience extremely cold temperatures as winter weather here tends to be wet and moderate. Just as a blanket reduces the winter coat’s natural insu lating value, a wet coat has almost no insulating value.”

using a blanket outdoors it’s import ant to use one labeled “turnout” that has rain resistance. No horse wants to wear a wet blanket!

Brushing - Putting a blanket on a muddy horse is like having a pebble in your shoe. A good brushing will not only make your horse feel better but will avoid skin irritation caused by wearing a dirty blanket. It’s also good to make sure the blanket is rela tively clean too. Horses love to roll in the mud and blankets get muddy too.

Blanket washing - Blanket wash ing and repair services keep your blankets in good condition. A gar den hose can remove excess mud and a few hours in the sun should dry the blanket, but an annual, thor ough cleaning prolongs the blanket’s life. Specifically formulated blanket washing soaps are available, as are re-proofing solutions to restore the blanket’s water-proof qualities. Pro tect your blanket investment with a little annual maintenance to enjoy years of use.

So, to blanket or not? It depends on several factors. Will your horse be used frequently this winter and get sweaty? Maybe a partial or full body clip is in order and then blan ket as needed. Does your horse have the winter off? His natural hair and a shelter should be enough. No shel ter and rain or snow are predicted? A waterproof blanket will keep him dry until the weather changes. Is your older horse having difficulty main taining weight? A blanket will keep him warm so calories aren’t used for heat. Young horses and sick horses also benefit from blanketing during particularly wet or cold weather. A warm horse is usually a happy horse, so keep your eye on the weather forecast and your equine partner will thank you.

“Rain and wind are primary

Colic Season

By Michele Harn, M.S

Colic is the most common reason for emergency vet calls, especially with sudden climate changes. As colder weather set tles in and summer pastures go dormant, horses rely on hay for forage.

Cured properly, hay has 1820% moisture content compared to grass pasture which is 85%

“Adding salt or electrolytes to your horse’s diet, or offering it free-choice, can encourage him to drink. It’s also important to keep their water from freezing.”

water. If a horse doesn’t drink enough water, he is at risk for impaction colic from eating dry hay. In fact, this type of colic is more commonly seen during colder, winter months according to Dr. Phoebe Anders, DVM, of Tennessee Equine Hospital West.

“Horses don’t have access to lush pastures during the win ter so they need to drink more water.” Some horses are re luctant drinkers. “Adding salt or electrolytes to your horse’s diet, or offering it free-choice, can encourage him to drink. It’s also important to keep their water from freezing.”

Dr. Anders recommends adding water to the horse’s reg ular grain feeding, making a mash, to get more water into horses’ digestive tracts. She also advises horse owners to temporarily decrease the amount of grain fed when a cold snap occurs.

“Feeding hay will keep your horse warm and maintain his gut microbes in proper balance” adds Dr Anders. Grain

heavy diets are known to increase a horse’s risk for colic. Regular turnout, deworming as your vet recommends, and dental care will also decrease risk of colic.

Careful management practices and routine veterinary care can also reduce the incidence of colic. Talk with your vet about your horse’s risk for colic and further steps you can take to ensure your horse has a healthy gut, the foundation of a horse’s health. Keep water flowing as your horse eats his way to warmth and health this winter.

Know the signs of colic

1. Frequently looking at their side.

2. Biting or kicking their flank or belly.

3. Lying down and/or rolling.

4. Little or no passing of manure.

5. Fecal balls smaller than usual.

6. Passing dry or mucus (slime)-covered manure.

7. Poor eating behavior, may not eat all their grain or hay.

8. Change in drinking behavior.

9. Heart rate over 45 to 50 beats per minute.

10. Tacky gums.

11. Long capillary refill time.

12. Off-colored mucous membranes.

Horse Tech

Trends and Tips for Buying and Selling Horses in 2023

equestrians coming to the app.

On the Auction Block

As India looks to build her business, she noticed an area of opportunity in offering an auction platform. “Starting in December, we are launching Mane Street Market Auctions that will showcase a select number of sport horses.” The im petus for the idea came to India from the Western/Quarter horse world. “They do a really good job with their auctions, similar to Europe and I noticed that in the US for sport hors es we were missing a targeted price point that has a simple, easy to use platform.”

To simplify the process, they created a downable pdf guide to help educate the buyer and the seller in a step-bystep way. “In my decades of experience, I’ve found the more educated people are with a product, the more they will use and feel comfortable with it.” The current process can be in timidating, and India thinks that has kept people from partic ipating in auctions. “We really want to develop that personal connection with the buyers and the sellers, so people feel comfortable in this space.”

What’s Trending: Amateur Friendly Horses are in De mand

talking with people, those who are looking to buy are also thinking of the resale factor, where you would not see that in the last few years during a hot market. Buyers are being much more careful than in the past.”

If you are looking to sell using a social media channel beware that Facebook is starting to shut down real estate pages, and India thinks that we must be aware that it could happen in the equestrian world. “Facebook has caught on that people are using their channel to sell without Facebook benefiting from those transactions.” Using just one platform to sell horses isn’t effective anymore. “As an example, one of our Mane Street Market sellers not only leverages us as a partner, but she combines that with creating reels on Insta gram, Facebook posts and Tik Tok videos for the horses she is selling.” With competition high it is even more important to establish your reputation and build awareness when sell ing horses.

Insights from the founder of the Mane Street Market App

By Juliana Chapman, The Tech Equestrian

As the holidays draw near and thoughts of buying and/or selling a new horse for Christmas or in the New Year become front and center, The Tech Equestrian knew to reach out to India Lynn Wilkinson, founder and creator of the Mane Street Market app to learn more about her digital solution and gain insight on what’s trending in the horse market plus gather tips to help in the process.

The App Defined

“I designed the app to be ‘alive’ – since many of the horse selling websites are static,” shared India. “The app is very simple - it allows you to list and view horses for sale along with promoting equine businesses and services.” The app and online site feature an intelligent search to view on a map or as a list, plus you can text directly from the app. There is an alert feature which provides notifications when new hors es are listed that meet your criteria – great for trainers who are shopping for multiple clients. “I also wanted to create something that gives equestrians and businesses a more pro fessional feel.”

An Integrated Approach

India’s focus is to drive more downloads, get more visi bility, and have more eyes on horses and services through her solution. “As a seller, you can count on us to promote a horse and service every day on our social platforms. We also answer ‘in search of’ posts from other equestrian platforms.” Advertising packages offer flexible plans and pricing based on your goals. “Every single download and followers are real – I can authentically say – you are reaching an actual equestrian – which is extremely important to advertisers,” pointed out India. The businesses are there because of the

Over the past year and especially now, the big trend in the market and what India has seen from the horses for sale on the Mane Street Market app is that the amateur friendly horse is in high demand. “My theory is that so many people are working from home nowadays that they have more time to either start the sport or get back into it,” she shared. This type of horse is hard to find, and trainers are aware of the need. India has also noticed some of the top breeds that can deliver on being versatile in nature are more of the Draft crosses and Thoroughbred crosses. “Those types of breeds are more amateur friendly because they can perform in the show ring and be great on trails.” Many want a horse they consider a partner, that they love and that’s part of the family. Plus, they are looking for a horse that can self-load, is easy to clip and you can put an amateur on them. Because of the demand, the price point can be high depending on the horse’s demeanor, age, breed/bloodline and ability. “The pleasure horse and the competition horse are now one in the same for the amateur rider,” said India.

She also cited other top selling breeds include the Dutch Warmblood and, believe it or not, the Dutch Harness Horseespecially in the dressage world is really growing. “The Dutch Harness horses are great for amateurs looking to ride low level dressage – they are fancy enough and they are priced in the mid-fives range.” India is also seeing that Trakehners are on the rise. “There is a big push for their breeding program in the states now – where it used to be they were only imported. Many top professionals in Eventing and Dressage compete Trakehners so I’m seeing more of a de mand for them.” Rounding out the top breeds for sale, India is also seeing Friesian Sport Horses and Friesian crosses as popular options.

The Younger the Better

“One thing to note is that in the last year there is a trend for buying yearlings,” said India. “A lot of equestrians re ally want that control of managing their horses’ soundness and care.” More amateurs see the value in doing this with young horses and have the money to keep them in a training program.

Selling & Buying Tips

“It’s very interesting because one of the things I’m seeing is that horse selling is following the trends of the housing market,” India said and shared that horses are selling, but they are requiring more work to gain attention. In parallel you see it with the real estate agents who are having to work a lot harder to promote homes using listings, videos and so cial. This is also what is happening in the horse world. “In

“I recommend my sellers to be very clear when they ad vertise their horse(s) and to include accurate and complete information. You don’t have to put everything – but enough so you can match the right buyer/experience type, and be honest because you want to attract an ideal buyer.” She also recommends keeping the messaging consistent when posting multiple horses and to include a variety of performance and conformation pictures/videos.

As a buyer, India suggests making sure you let the seller know what you can afford and ask for options if you need more flexibility on price and payout. “In the past when I have been horse shopping, I had a situation where the horse was out of my price range, but it was truly the perfect match for my daughter. I approached the seller with some ‘work with me’ options and the seller allowed me to sign a contract and make payments. If you are really interested in a horse but can’t come up with the cash, approach the seller and make a case that you are going to offer a great home; let them know what kind of life the horse would have if they chose you. In this new economic and competitive environment, I think people are going to have to get creative.”

The Mane Street Market App is free to download on: App Store and Google Play

Visit the Mane Street Market website at: https:// manestreetmarket.com

Follow on social: Instagram: @manestreetmarket Facebook: @manestreetmarket

India Lynn Wilkinson, founder, and creator of the Mane Street Market app with her horse Justin.

People & Horses Hometown Cowboy Will Lummus

said. Instead of the usual 70-80 rodeos per year, his Calgary win nings that went toward qualifying for the 2022 NFR allowed him to compete in only 53 rodeos in 2022, which meant more time spent at home in Byhalia, Miss. with his wife, Jenna. As a local circuit barrel racer, Jenna is no stranger to rodeo herself. When not competing, home is where you will most likely find the rodeo pair. There’s al ways work to do around their newly built home. Watching his father, Luke Lummus, ride bulls and his Uncle Bob go to the NFR four times himself, Will grew up knowing he wanted to rodeo. Participating in both high school and college rodeos paved the way for his successful career in the professional rodeo world. In fact, Will was inducted into the University of Tennessee at Martin’s Rodeo Hall of Fame for his part in helping the 2014 men’s rodeo team win the National Men’s Team Title at the College National Fi nals Rodeo. Will’s family, however, is not only responsible for get ting him started in rodeo; he credits the support of both his family and friends in carrying him through the challenges that come along with being a professional Steer Wrestler and life on the road. When his season slows down he’s able to reverse the roles of competitor and supporter and encourage Jenna at her Jackpot Barrel Races. It helps put everything back in perspective. “That’s when rodeo becomes more fun and less like a job,” Lummus stated.

Return to National Finals Rodeo in

Las Vegas

By Alicia Johnson

Mid-South’s local cowboy, Will Lummus of Byhalia, Miss, is pre paring to return to the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo (NFR) in Las Vegas December 1-10, 2022. Currently ranked #4 in the World in Steer Wrestling, Will stands ready for an exciting end to an impres sive year of rodeo.

Timing, strength, and technique all come together in the light ning-quick rodeo event known as steer wrestling, or bulldogging. Although only seconds long, “tackling farm animals for a living,” as Will describes it, is no easy feat. In his own words, Will explains this thrilling event as two horses, two guys, and one steer. When he gives a nod, the steer is released, and his hazer, who’s responsible for keep ing the steer as straight as possible, takes off. With Lummus on the left, his hazer, Clayton Hass, on the right, and the steer in the middle they bolt down the arena. When the timing is just right, Will slides off of his horse, catches the steer by the horns, then uses his momen tum and strength to take it down. And if you’re a world- class com petitor like Will Lummus, the whole process only takes 3-4 seconds. Will and his hazer, Clayton, aren’t the only elite athletes involved. Their equine partners play an equally crucial role. Benz, the horse Lummus is competing on, is owned by Hass, and “always does his job,” Will explained. Originally a head horse in team roping, Benz proved he liked to run, but didn’t like to rein. Once he was intro duced to steer wrestling it was a clear fit for the equine athlete, and an amazing partnership evolved. “He’s always honest in the box,” Will said of his equine ally. When asked how he knew Benz would make a good partner to take to the NFR, Will simply stated, “It just has to feel good, and I like how [Benz] feels.”

Consistency is one of the many attributes that makes Will Lummus a world-class bulldogger. Since making his first appearance in the NFR in 2018, he finished in the top 5 three of those years. In 2021 he won the NFR Average and was also named the Reserve World Champion. Numerous top-notch wins, including Coleman PRCA Rodeo and Gladewater Round-Up Rodeo, throughout 2022 set the stage for an exceptional year. Last July he secured a prestigious win as the Calgary Stampede Steer Wrestling Champion with the fastest time of 3.6 seconds.

“Winning Calgary allowed me to coast the rest of the year,” Will

In his spare time, Lummus coaches the rodeo team for Northwest Mississippi Community College in Senatobia. He said, “It feels awesome to give back to college rodeo in the same region where my background is and teach others what I’ve learned in my rodeo career.” His advice for the next generation of cowboys and cowgirls is to “practice with a purpose and control your mind.” Regardless of the level of talent, the mental aspect of rodeo is most important, according to Lummus. He said there’s an old rodeo saying: “ ‘You can’t take your last win or last defeat to the next rodeo’ or you’ll come in too confident or too down.” This is something he tries to instill in his students.

Along with his family, friends, and fans, the Mid-South will be cheering Will Lummus on as he competes in the NFR for his fifth time. Check your local listings and tune in to see this local bull dogger continue to amaze. You can send him good luck wishes on his Facebook page, Will Lummus Professional Steer Wrestler, or on Instagram @wlummus20.

Photo by Paul Nolte

Photo by David Rosenfield

Mid- South Show Jumper, Kayla Benson

could not get through her rounds. Kayla confessed that she did not set “Z” up correctly for his first class where he had some refusals. But “Z” rallied and placed 5th in the $1,000 1.10M Adult Jumper Speed-II class and 13th in the $1,000 1.15M Adult Jumper Grand Prix-II class. Kayla said, “Z is typically solid once he’s settled in.”

This year there were rider swag bags, a VIP lounge, and more vendors. “The show was better this year. I think they’ve only been at this hotel/show facility for a few years,” Kayla added. The venue website boasted, “Held annually at the South Point Hotel and Casino, the Las Vegas National Horse Show is the ‘Place to Be’ to wrap up the show year.” Pro duced by Blenheim EquiSports equine event management company, “the South Point is home to a sprawling 500,000 sq. ft. equestrian center and 1,200 climate controlled stalls.”

Competing at the Las Vegas National CSI4*-W

By Michele Harn

What does it take to be called a road warrior? Would 36 driving hours done over three days with 2 overnight stops qualify? Kayla Benson, amateur rider, and Trey Lawson, Trainer at Oak View Stables in Olive Branch, Miss., made the journey to attend this year’s Marshall & Sterling Insur ance USHJA National Championship with two horses and Kayla’s mom. The USHJA National Championship took

place November 14-20 in Las Vegas, Nevada. While Kayla and Trey did all the driving on the way there, Trey’s brother, Phillip, flew out to help with the drive back home to Olive Branch.

Kayla rode Corville Z last year in her first Finals. This year she brought “Z” and also Reba. Juggling two horses in the same division, which only had 18 total entries, left little turnaround time between rides. However, Kayla notes she’s done this before at other shows. The biggest challenge at this one? “Everything is indoors. Even the stables are un derneath the parking garage. The horses didn’t see daylight for days.”

Reba found the arena’s stadium seating distracting and

Though she didn’t have the placings she had hoped for, she found encouragement from several FEI riders who re minded her that just qualifying and then being selected to at tend is an honor. “I’m lucky to have these experiences,” she adds. She gives credit to Rose Marie Lawson (owner of Oak View Stable), Pam Hill (owner of Corville Z), Trey Lawson, her mom (Dottie Benson), and her boyfriend, Sam Varner.

Cashel Trail Saddle Collection

Exclusively made for Cashel® by Martin Saddlery ® , Cashel’s saddles are built to provide comfort and security for horse and rider. Designed around Martin’s Axis True Fit Saddle Tree, we go out of our way to make sure we offer horsemen the utmost in fit, function and value in a trail saddle.

No matter what you need, we have the right saddle for you.

Kayla Benson riding Corville Z. Photo by Andrew Ryback

Kayla Benson riding Reba. Photo by Andrew Ryback

Life skills learned in the showpen

By Michele Harn

Young Riders

Spencer Hardin

Fourteen years ago on July 4th in Tunica, Miss, a young boy started on the road that would lead to much success as a young man. Spencer Hardin and “A Lopin Sweet Dream” entered the Western Pleasure Small Fry Walk-Trot class, and thus began a life of equestrian sport.

While pregnant with her son, Kay Hardin, bought an American Quarter Horse to get back to riding and showing. Of course, her yet-to-be-born son would go on that jour ney with her. Today Spencer is an 18-year-old Mississippi State Freshman with 14 years of experience developing the life skills that have landed him on the national boards of American Quarter Horse Youth Association and National Snaffle Bit Association Youth. When asked about these life skills he notes, “discipline is the biggest one, but horses also teach you patience.” He credits his trainer, Cory Everhart of Ward, Arkansas, for helping him learn and develop these skills. “Mr. Cory is like a second dad to me.” But he also says, “my mom has been my biggest supporter from day one.” He recalls his mom sometimes bribed him to show by giving him a cheap toy in those early years. Now he says she’d have to give him money to not show! “My mom al ways knows what’s best for me but doesn’t force anything.” Spencer says his dad supports him from the rail and both parents push him out of his comfort zones.

He confesses going through the teenage years like most kids: a little resistant to parents. Now as a young adult he wouldn’t change those years of hard work, wins, and losses. “You can’t get these experiences anywhere else.” He tells how the lessons learned in the showpen and on the road have translated to success in school and life. He’s traveled to 25 states, making friends across the country, and honing

his interpersonal skills. He’s glad for the intangible benefits which he says are invaluable. Many of these friends have become family, and he looks forward to seeing them at events.

When he moved from the under 13 age group to the 14-18 year-old group, he initially felt intimidat ed. But he quickly felt the sup port of his horse family and those years were filled with many special memories. Through this he learned to problem solve by taking a step back, thinking it through, and then moving on. “Money can’t buy these life experiences.”

Spencer’s mom says his role with AQHYA and NSBA has been “to grow awareness of these great asso ciations and help boost involvement in horses for kids as they have laid a great foundation for him: work ethic (cleaning stalls daily), sports manship, and learning how to lose in the showpen and dealing with adversity.” His parents couldn’t be more proud of the young man he has become by persevering through

“Life is like a 1,500 pound animal: it might try to knock you in the dirt. But you figure out how to go on.”

challenges and benefitting from many opportunities in equine sport.

A few of Spencer’s significant accomplishments:

• Current 2nd Vice President of AQHYA - Amer ican Quarter Horse Youth Association

• 2022 Reserve World Champion at the AQHYA World Championship Show in Oklahoma City, Okla.

• First Vice President, Mississippi Quarter Horse Association

• AQHA Congress: Top 5 in 2021, Top 10 in 2022 Youth Western Pleasure

• AQHA World Top 10 Youth 14-18 Western Pleasure

• AQHA currently 2nd in nation Youth Western Pleasure with KN Notin Better (purchased form Masterson Farms in Somerville, TN)

• He and his horse KM Nothin Better are current ly leading the nation for AQHA highpoint in Youth Performance Geldings.

• 2022 AQHA/Wrangler Aspire Award for lead ership and service

• 2020 Show Clothes and Tack Drive to donate several hundred articles of show clothing and tack to 4-H leaders in MS, TN, AR, LA, AL

• Top 5 at the NSBA (National Snaffle Bit Asso ciation) 2022 World Show

• President Elect for the NSBA Youth for 2023

• High School Student Body President, National Merit Finalist, Star Student (highest ACT in his school), National Honor Society President

• Freshman, Mississippi State studying Electrical Engineering; “I’m good with numbers.”

Greener Pastures

Does Compost Just Happen?

The temperature of the compost pile is critical. The organisms that cause the organ ic matter to decay need to be warm. Their biological activity generates heat, which is high enough to kill weed seeds and disease spores in the compost pile. If possible, the compost pile needs to reach a temperature of 140 to 160 degrees Fahrenheit.

There is no need to worry if your pile does not reach those temperatures. It only means that your compost may take a little more time to decay. Different groups of fungi and bacteria will colonize the compost and continue the process of decaying at a much slower pace.

By Christopher Cooper, Shelby County Extension Agent

The end of the year is upon us and what a year it has been. Recently, I have had the pleasure to speak to many novice gardeners eager to learn as much as they could about gardening in the Mid-South. As we prepare to put our garden beds to rest, many of the questions from those gardeners have been about composting.

It is safe to say that the organic matter in a compost pile will soon decay. However, many factors play a part to hasten that de cay, which will ultimately produce a product that will be beneficial to your garden.

Moisture affects composting as well. Be fore organic materials can be broken down, those decaying organisms need water. If the materials in your compost pile are dry, add water to moisten them. You want compost materials to be damp but not soggy. Ex tremely wet and soggy compost piles will have an unpleasant odor. The byproducts of wet compost are harmful to plants.

The volume of your pile will decrease as decay progresses. It is vital to turn the pile to increase oxygen flow. Once the compost is ready, go ahead and use it in your garden beds or spread it as mulch. Your plants will thank you!

To Prune or Not to Prune

By Christopher Cooper, Shelby County Extension Agent

When I think of fall, images of corn stalks, mums, pumpkins and scarecrows come to mind. Nothing heralds the coming of au tumn like the brilliance and splendor of fall foliage. Fall also signals the end of another growing season as plants prepare for their long winter slumber.

As cooler temperatures settle in, questions about fall pruning are on the rise. Unfortu nately, fall is not an ideal time to prune. This time of year plants are going dormant and are not focused on producing new tissue. Pruning creates an injury, and plants need time to recover before going into dorman cy. If you decide to prune in the fall, do so with care. Proper pruning involves making

the appropriate cut at the time of year when the plant can seal the wound as quickly as possible.

The best time to prune is in either late winter or early spring. Both are periods of rapid growth for plants. This does not; how ever, mean that you cannot prune in the fall. Pruning in the fall is an ideal time to prune dead, dying or diseased limbs. This type of pruning can be done at any time throughout the year.

Now is the time for autumn chores such as removing spent blooms, cleaning up the vegetable garden and planting winter annu als. Pruning is a task that is best left until late winter next year. Remember, the goal of pruning is to improve the overall health and vigor of a tree or shrub. Timing is ev erything!

Holiday Shopper’s Guide

The Holiday Shopping Season is here and this is the ideal time to do a check over all your riding equipment, attire, supplies and products. No matter what discipline you ride this section high lights the top gifts for equestrians and their horses.

Are you looking for top notch riding apparel, then Saddles N’ Such in Germantown, Tenn. has you covered. Are you wanting to practice safer riding in the New Year? Check out EquineTrac’s app and sensor that detects falls and can call your emergency contacts. You can also find the Helite Equestrian Airbag Safety Vest at Franklin’s Horse Supply in Franklin, Tenn. Hall’s Feed & Seed in Collierville, Tenn. has all of your farm feed, seed and fertilizer needs, along with new apparel, handmade jewelry and candles. Lakeland Leatherworks in Lakeland, Tenn. can custom ize any leather piece you need. Our favorite are their custom half chaps! And if you are in need of the right nutritional supplement for your performance horse then KER has research backed sup plements for all nutritional needs.

Find the best gift for your horse or the horse lover in your life this Holiday Season. Visit our partners at their stores or online. Happy Shopping and Merry Christmas!

EquineTrac: The EquineTrac App tracks your rides, sends safety alerts to your emergency con tacts if you should fall, records your ride history, analyzes your previous rides and can be used with multiple horses. The sensor clips to English and Western Saddles. Ride safer in 2023!

Our Favorite Gifts

KER: Kentucky Equine Research has continually developed innovative solutions to the health and nutritional challenges inherent in modern equine management. MFM Pellet increases the amount of key amino acids and high-quality protein to help rebuild damaged muscle fibers.

Franklin Horse Supply: Give the gift of safety this season with the Helite Equestrian Air bag Safety Vest. Franklin Horse Supply is proud to serve middle Tennessee. They offer quality brands such as Samshield, Helite, Ariat, Charles Owen, The Tailored Sportsman, and many more.

Hall’s Feed & Seed: Hall’s Feed & Seed sells various products such as horse, cattle, dog, cat, and rabbit feed. Hall’s also has lawn & garden, and fertilizer products. Now carrying purses, sweaters, shirts, and locally handmade jewelry and candles, visit Hall’s for all your farm needs!

Lakeland Leatherworks: Tom and Don na Hathaway create handmade and custom items for clients nationwide. These custom half chaps are perfect for English and Western riders. Created in your custom size, fit perfect for you! They can come in any color with any special requests.

Saddles N’ Such: A locally owned and oper ated tack shop in Germantown, Tenn. Saddles N’ Such offers a wide variety of products from be ginner packages to Grand Prix! Offering products from Animo, Ariat, Equiline, IRH, Samshield, One K and many more.

Franklin Horse Supply

Franklin Horse Supply is proud to serve the middle Tennessee equestrian commu nity offering new and used tack! Proudly offering quality brands such as Samshield, Helite, Ariat, Charles Owen, The Tailored Sportsman, Sergio Grasso, Edgewood, Breyer, Horseware, Weatherbeeta, Ego7, 5/A Baker and more.

Franklin Horse Supply is Tennessee’s exclusive Butet dealer proudly serving the Southeast. Their expert fitter on staff is available to fit both rider and horse for the ride of your life! Visit Franklin Horse Supply 24/7 at: www.FranklinHorse.com

Hall’s Feed & Seed

Hall’s Feed & Seed sells various prod ucts such as horse, cattle, dog, cat, and rabbit feed. We also have lawn & garden, and fertilizer products. Can’t make it to the store? We offer delivery!

Come in and we’ll get you ready for Christmas. Now offering purses, sweaters, shirts, and locally handmade jewelry and candles. Hall’s has all your farm and gift needs. Shop Local! Visit us at 155 U.S. Highway 72 East, Collierville, TN 38017 or online at: https://hallsfeedandseed.com

Offering Holiday gifts like purses, bags, sweat ers and more.

Local handmade jewelry is available.

Come in and pick up your favorite Holiday candles.

We have what you need to stay warm this win ter. Come pick up sweatshirts and flannels.

Offering seasonal kitchen hand towels. We have sweatshirts, jackets and sweaters for women and men.

We have Lost in the Woods Candles.

Lakeland Leatherworks

Lakeland Leatherworks by Tom and Donna Hathaway is a local business with decades of experience and artistry creat ing handmade leather items. Located in Lakeland, Tenn, Tom and Donna create handmade and custom items for clients na tionwide.

Drawing on their experiences and cre ativity, Lakeland Leatherworks is able to offer a diverse collection of purses, belts, bags, clothing, chaps, and just about any thing else made from leather. Call (901) 484-5725 or visit: www.LakelandLeatherworks.com

Hand-tooled leather wristbands with padded back, various widths & lengths. Starting at $25

Offering a wide variety of handmade leather belts.

No matter what you are looking for we have a variety of gifts ranging from purses to coasters.

We have unique gifts like this handmade leath er clock. Ranging in large to small sizes.

These Christmas ornaments will become an heirloom for family and will be a hit as a gift or ornament exchanges.

These custom chaps are perfect for the English and Western Rider. Never worry about chaps not fitting again.

These Hand-tooled leather earrings with decorative embellishments are perfect gifts for family and friends.

Saddles N’ Such

Saddles N’ Such is a small, locally owned and operated tack shop in German town, Tenn. that has been serving the West Tennessee, North Mississippi and Eastern Arkansas equestrian communities since 1972.

Offering a wide variety of products from beginner to Grand Prix. Saddles N’ Such offers products from Animo, Ariat, Eq uiline, IRH, Samshield, One K and more. Visit them at 2135 South Germantown Road Germantown, Tenn. 38138 or online at: https://snstack.shopsettings.com

Accessorize your great riding tops with eques trian purses, clutches and belt bags.

This Leather Care Kit from Effol & Effax has everything needed to keep boots show ready!

Offering a wide variety of products from beginner packages to Grand Prix.

Carrying the top Breyer Horse gifts for family and friends. We can order any that you’re look ing for this Holiday Season.

Carrying beautiful jewelry by Kelly Herd out of Cleveland, Tenn.

Color coordinate your outfit with gorgeous Tailored Sportsman Breeches, Tucker Tweed Handbags and Bedford-Jones Belts.

Get Show Ring Ready with a Glamorous Animo Show Shirt

Do you ever ride alone? Have you heard about EquineTrac’s new safer riding solu tion? Visit EquineTrac.com to join the rap idly growing community of Equestrian’s. Give the gift of safer riding this year and take advantage of early Holiday Savings! Use code MSHR and receive 15% off and free shipping.

The EquineTrac App tracks your rides, sends safety alerts to your emergency con tacts if you should fall, records your ride history, analyzes your previous rides and can be used with multiple horses. Order online today to give the gift of safer riding: https://shop.equinetrac.com/collections/ all

EquineTrac KER

Targeted Nutrition for World Class Per formance. For over 30 years Kentucky Equine Research has continually devel oped innovative solutions to the health and nutritional challenges inherent in modern equine management.

The results of studies conducted at its research farms, as well as advances in equine nutrition from institutions around the world, are applied and thoroughly test ed in the creation of KER Targeted Nutri tion products.

See all products and shop at: https://shop.ker.com

EO-3 supplies omega-3 fatty acids, compounds with positive effects on reproduction, bone de velopment and numerous inflammatory condi tions in horses.

Provide antioxidant, joint, and hoof and coat support with one easy-to-feed product.

Bio-Bloom PS is a dual-action horse sup plement designed to promote and maintain healthy hooves and skin from the inside out.

Nano-E is a powerful water-soluble liquid vitamin E antioxidant supplement for horses in a unique, rapidly bioavailable form.

EquiShure is a time-released buffer targeting the hindgut. EquiShure’s unique, patented encapsulation technology ensures targeted release directly in the hindgut.

Micro-Max is a low-intake concentrated source of vitamins and minerals for mature horses. Micro-Max is ideal for horses that maintain body weight on diets composed entirely of forage or forage and small amounts of concentrate.

On the Hunt

History of North American Foxhunting

Even in today’s casual dress world, formal attire still stands for foxhunters. Black leather boots, breeches, heavy or light hunting coats, a shirt with a tie or stock tie, and a protective hat are essential. Every hunt has two seasons - cub hunting when young hounds are introduced into the pack and the formal season. Opening Meet signifies the be ginning of the formal season. When the formal season opens the staff wears its livery, often red coats with white breeches and black boots with tan leather tops. Members wear black coats, buff breeches, and black boots. Most hunts allow gen tlemen to wear red coats. Lady masters and members of the staff also often wear red coats. Some ladies add to the ele gance and ride sidesaddle.

By Allison Crews

The original extreme sport, Foxhunting has existed in North America since Colonial days and was enjoyed ex tensively by night hunters, farmers, and landed gentry. The earliest record of imported hounds was on June 30, 1650, when Robert Brooke arrived in Maryland with his family and pack. By the early 1700’s, Foxhunting was increasing rapidly.

The earliest surviving record of American Foxhunting in the modern manner is for the pack instituted by Thomas, Sixth Lord Fairfax in 1747 in northern Virginia. Much of what little is recorded about early hunting comes from let

ters written by Lord Fairfax and the diaries of George Wash ington. Washington was an ardent foxhunter who owned his own pack of hounds. Washington’s diaries are laced with frequent references to foxhunts. On one occasion while Congress was in session, hounds ran near the Capitol. Many congressmen ran outside to watch hounds and some jumped on their horses and joined the chase.

North American foxhunting has evolved its own distinct flavor, which is noticeably different from the British. North American Foxhunting emphasizes the chase rather than the kill. Also, hounds predominately hunt coyotes rather than foxes. The larger coyote usually provides longer and faster runs than foxes.

Hunting gear has changed little since foxhunting began and is based on practicality. Heavy boots and breeches pro tect riders from branches and brambles. The melton coats are almost waterproof. A stock tie, fastened with a plain gold safety pin, can serve as a bandage for man, hound, or horse in case of an accident.

Galloping over the countryside on a fine horse flying his fences well is a thrill for anyone. And for those not wanting to move along quite so rapidly, just the sights and sounds of a huge pack of hounds in full cry stops the heart. To day’s hunters have a special reward, permission to ride over private and public land, which still constitutes magnificent open spaces. No group of individuals is more aware of this privilege, nor is there a group more outspoken in their desire to protect quarries and preserve their environment. People from all walks of life and any age enjoy foxhunting. It is wonderful fun for the whole family that can be enjoyed for a lifetime.

Chula Homa Hunt Club at their 40th annual opening meet and blessing of the hounds.

Photo by Jennifer Nicholson

Chula Homa Hounds 40th Opening Hunt

recast them and they were soon off on another gray fox in the middle of the property. That fox switched the hounds off on an unsuspecting coyote who took the hounds three miles north for more blessings from the Episcopal Diocese’s Camp Bratton Green property. Fifteen miles later, hounds and those who were able to gather them were thoroughly exhausted and very well blessed.

Riders also braved the deep and very cold “River Cross ing” at Tilda Bogue. Deer, turkey, and rabbits skirted aside as horses and riders galloped among rusting cypress and the remaining splashes of shagbark hickory gold. Seven tally-ho wagons spirited guests along the property to watch the hunt and pause for another forest feast provided by membership and overseen by Florence Cooper.

Foxhunting continues to grow thanks to national efforts to encourage students and young adults to participate. Cur rently there are 167 organized clubs in North America and Canada, three of them hunting regularly in Mississippi.

By Allison Crews

The Chula Homa Hounds hosted its 40th annual Open ing Meet and Blessing of the Hounds at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Jim Crews on November 12th in Canton, Miss.

Fifty riders and 300 spectators from Mississippi, Arkansas, Tennessee, Alabama, and Louisiana braved the cold, wrap ping up and kicking on to make it the largest mounted fox hunting event in central Mississippi. Eight ladies rode side saddle with two being a mother and daughter duo on their mules.

Your Personal Chef of Madison, Miss. catered a fantastic breakfast while guests purchased silent auction items spon sored by Susan and Doug Williams of Kalalou.

Huntsman and Master of Foxhounds, Petra Kay, hunt ed 23 hounds, or “twelve and a half couple” in foxhunting terms. Father Kevin Slattery blessed the hounds, horses, and riders while Tim Gordon of Carthage serenaded all with his marvelous bagpipes. Prior to the blessing, violinist Marta Szlubowska lifted riders spirits with her gifted, albeit fro zen fingers. Hounds hunted for coyote, fox, and bobcat, and found a fox right away that dashed off the property. Petra

Chula Homa Hounds at their 40th annual opening meet

Photo by Wesley Shoop

Ashley Waldrup and her 8-year-old daughter, Rivers, rode their mules, Rye (pictured dun, molly mule, and Old Joe. A 28 yr. old sorrel john mule).

Photo by Wesley Shoop

Longreen Foxhounds Celebrates 65th Opening Hunt

By Michele Harn

Bridlands in Como, Miss was host once again for the much anticipated Longreen Fox hounds opening meet held Saturday, November 5, 2022. This was the pack’s first day hunt ing since early last March, so they were eager to get their noses on the ground. Rain over night combined with brisk winds and cold temperatures couldn’t dampen the energy of the hounds, horses, or riders.

Tally-Ho Wagons were back and full. Stirrup Cup and treats were served at 9:30 am to the 93 in attendance, 44 of which were astride. The hounds, horses, and riders were blessed by Reverend Paul McLain of Calvary Episcopal Church of Memphis, Tenn. before the hounds were cast about 10:40 am. The 8-couple (16) hounds, ages 3 to 8 years old, were ready, but the quarry was elusive that day. Master of Foxhounds, Susan Walker, capably called off the well trained hounds when a few deer were flushed during the course of the two-hour hunt. Longreen members were joined by 12 members of Chula Homa Foxhounds.

Following the day afield, the historic McGhee log cabin was backdrop to a catered lunch served by Taylor Grocery food truck of Oxford, Miss. Lunch included fried chicken and catfish, hushpuppies, french fries, a bountiful salad bar by Dottie Benson, and festive fox shaped cookies made by Margaret Webb and Pam Ireland!

Photos by Brooke Ballenger

Mells Foxhounds & Oak Grove Hunt Club

Above: Belle Notte ridden by Gerald Robeson MFH

Left: Cloonacauneen little Farmer ridden by Zach Hulbert, DVM

Left: Neville is ridden by Charles Montgomery MFH and huntsman of Mells foxhounds

Photos by Michael Gomez of Westlight Studios

Photos by Brooke Ballenger

Right: Tom Brannon, former MSHR Publisher, enjoying Opening Hunt on his horse Tessa.

(Right) Peggy Hart and (Below) Barbara Henking enjoying Oak Grove’s Opening Hunt.

Above: Members and Guest of Oak Grove Hunt Club enjoyed their opening hunt on Nov. 26th.

BOARDING HORSES FOR SALE

Hillside Stables – Boarding with 2x daily feeding, stall cleaning and turnout. Retired/aged horses welcomed. Wound care/rehab available. Riding lessons -En glish or western.

Includes covered arena, round pen and wonderful wooded trails. Full board $500.00. We are located, south of Collierville/Germantown, east of Olive Branch. www.HillsideStables.wordpress. com 901/857-7500

Premier Horse Boarding & Training. Full & pasture retirement board. Excellent care w/lots of amenities. Outdoor arena. Moscow, TN. 901-331-3500 Dana

Boarding at beautiful WHITE OAK FARM: Located on 40 acres in northeast Shelby County at 10023 Rosemark Rd. Fullboard $400/month. Board includes stall cleaning/shavings and morning/eve ning feedings.

Numerous amenities include large stalls with windows, stall fans, heated water ers, turnout pastures, lighted outdoor arena or inside barn riding, crosstie area with hot/cold wash rack, fly spray system, Bermuda hay grown and baled onsite. Gated facility with owners and farm manager living on property. Call Sammy 901-833-3075.

Caballos en venta: Quarter Horse wean lings, 2-year-olds, Blue Roans,Palominos & Buckskins Good conformation, easy movers: $850 & up.Foundation bred Stallions at Stud. 662-292-7384 or 662-292-0368.

for a variety of projects: magazine print layout, client print and digital adver tisements, branding and social media artwork, etc.

Key Skills:

• Think creatively to develop new design concepts, graphics and layouts

• Understand and maintain brand guide lines

Horse gentling & training the correct way. 6 days/ wk training & desensitizing. Quality grain & hay. Must have current Coggins/vaccs. Michael 901-857-8060

HORSE TRAINING SADDLE REPAIR

SADDLE & TACK REPAIR: Van’s Leather Craft. In stock new and used sad dles and horse health products. Off Hwy. 309, 1909 Bubba Taylor Rd., Byhalia, MS. (662) 838-6269.

Mid-South Horse Review is looking for a Freelance Graphic Designer to be apart of our remote network. We are looking for a creative individual to work within our network and connect with our team. We pride ourselves on creating diverse creative pieces for a number of brands and audiences. Our visual concepts are used for brands, social media, website, sales and marketing flyers and much more. You’ll be responsible for designing

• Ability to take initiative and create without guidance of manager.

• Work directly with advertising clients on their advertising designs and provide excellent written and oral communication and customer serive.

• Accountability with deadlines and milestones

Qualifications:

• Must be based in the Mid-South Re gion: Arkansas, Tennessee, Mississippi, Kentucky or Alabama.

• Highly skilled in Adobe CC suite

• Proven graphic-design experience

• Detail-oriented, organized and able to work well with minimal supervision

• Knowledgeable in both digital and print design

• Must have passion for creativity with an eye for detail

Email resume, portfolio of print and digital designs and references to labbott@mshorsereview.com

7777 Walnut Grove Rd., Memphis, TN http://www.agricenter.org/events/ DEC. 30-JAN. 1: IBRA Super Show

FEB. 24-26: IBRA Super Show

https://mshorsepark.com/events

FEB. 10-11: Starkville Breakaway

FEB. 11-12: Rotary Classic Rodeo

Harriman, TN http://www.roanestate. edu/?6497-Events-Calendar

FEB. 10-12: East TN Cutting Horse Assn.

FEB. 17-19: Flamekissed IEA

FEB. 24-26: SE Ranch Horse Series

Murfreesboro, TN www.mtsu.edu/tmc

FEB. 11-12: MTSU IHSA Hunter Seat Show

FEB. 18-19: MTSU IHSA Western Show

www.utm.edu/departments/agnr/pavilion. php (731)881-7221

JAN. 6-7: Barrel Racing; Info. Katie White 270-627-1031

FEB. 10: Equestrian team meet

http://www.ihsazone5region1.com http://www.campusequestrian.com/zone/ 5zone/5z2r/5z2r-index.html http://www.ihsainc.com/events/ FEB. 4: Brooklet, GA; Hunt Seat

(731) 658-5867 http://tnhsra.com

FEB. 11-12 Harriman, TN (tentative)

FEB. 25-26 Rainsville, TN (tentative)

Calendar of Events

4-H Club. 3 pm. Info: Lydia Holland 901282-9709; facebook: Woodstock Cuba Ghost Riders

Sarah, MS. 548 Bryant Lane. Bryant Lane Cowboy Church. Info: facebook Wynne, AR. CR 381. Three Trees Cowboy Church. Info: threetreescowboychurch. com; facebook Collierville, TN. 1656 N. Col-Arl. Rd. Old West Special Trails. Sunday 10:30 am.

FIRST SATURDAY: Houston, MS. Triple E Livestock. Tack 10 am. Horses 2 pm. Info: A.J. Ellis 662-401-9760; 662-2662808

FOURTH SATURDAY: Holly Springs, MS. Marshall County Fairgrounds. Mar shall Co. Livestock Exchange. 662-3179021

FIRST, THIRD, FIFTH FRIDAY: Wood bury Livestock Market, 2403 McMinnville Hwy. Tack 5:30 p.m.; Horses 8 pm. Info: (423) 447-8119

FIRST SATURDAY: Hattiesburg, MS. T. Smith Livestock Sales. Tack 10:30 am. Horses 1:30 pm. Info: 601-583-0828

SECOND SATURDAY: Gleason, TN. West TN Auction Barn. 330 Fence Rd. Tack 5:30 pm. Horses 8 pm. Info: Chucky Greenway 731-571-8198

SECOND & FOURTH SATURDAY: Scotts Hill, TN. Scotts Hill Stockyard. Info: James Linville 731-549-3523. www. facebook.com/scottshillstockyard

SECOND & FOURTH SATURDAY: Car thage, MS. Farmers Livestock Marketing. Tack 1 pm. Horses 5 pm. Info: 601-2677884; 662-317-9021

JAN. 6-8: Jackson, MS. Kirk Fordice Equine Center. NCHA. JAN. 27-28: Lakeview, AR. Paradox Arena. NCHA. Info: Terry Beard 870-723-9384 FEB. 10-12: Harriman, TN. Roane State Expo Center. ETCHA.

DRESSAGE

www.midsouthdressageacademy.org, www.TNDressage.com, www.tvdcta.org, kentuckydressageassociation.com, https:// sites.google.com/view/greystonedressage/ home

FEB. 25: Ring Stewarding, Bit Checking, Scribing and Scoring Clinic. KY Horse Park, Lexington, KY

https://nwha.com, www.sshbea.org, www. walkinghorseowners.com, www.shobaon line.com

JAN. 20-21: Nashville, TN. Embassy Suites. NWHA Annual Judges’ Clinic and Membership Meeting

www.ipra-rodeo.com, www.prorodeo.com, www.lonestarrodeocompany.com

JAN. 6-7: Carthage, MS. Carthage Colise um. Lone Star Rodeo

JAN. 27-28: Cookeville, TN. Hyder Burks Ag Pavilion. Lone Star Rodeo

JAN. 27-28: Hattiesburg, MS. Forrest County Multipurpose Center. Southern Miss Coca-Cola Rodeo

JAN. 28: Southaven, MS. Landers Center. Rodeo of the Mid-South The Legend Lives On

FEB. 3-4: Shelbyville, TN. Calsonic Arena. Lone Star National Finals

FEB. 4: Tupelo, MS. Bancorp South Arena. NE Mississippi Championship Rodeo

FEB. 10-11: Starkville, MS. MS Horse Park. Starkville Breakaway

FEB. 10-12: Bowling Green, KY. WKU Ag Expo Center. 41st Annual Lone Star Rodeo FEB. 10-18: Jackson, MS. Mississippi Coliseum. Dixie National Rodeo FEB. 11-12: Starkville, MS. MS Horse Park. Rotary Rodeo

www.nlbra.com, mslbra.org/schedule

JAN. 7-8: Brandon, MS

JAN. 14-15: Murray, KY

FEB. 4-5: Murray, KY

FEB. 18-19: Murray, KY

FEB. 25-26: Lebanon, TN

FEB. 25-26: Brandon, MS

https://4h.tennessee.edu/Pages/default.aspx https://extension.tennessee.edu/western/ Pages/default.aspx http://extension.msstate.edu/4-h https://ag.tennessee.edu/AnimalScience/ UTHorse/Pages/Shows.aspx#AnchorTop

FIRST SUNDAY: Millington, TN. West Union Cumberland Presbyterian Church, 3099 West Union. Woodstock Ghost Riders

JAN. 20-21: Nashville, TN. Embassy Suites. NWHA Annual Judges’ Clinic and Membership Meeting

FEB. 25: Ring Stewarding, Bit Checking, Scribing and Scoring Clinic. KY Horse Park, Lexington, KY

http://www.nbha.com; https://ibra.us/ shows/US-TN-WEST

DEC. 30-JAN. 1: IBRA Super Show; Memphis, TN; Agricenter Showplace Are na; Info: Jamie White 901-378-7470

JAN. 6-7: UTM Ag. Pavillion; Info: Katie White 270-627-1031

FEB. 18: Dash 4 Love 4D Barrel Race. Holly Springs, MS. Marshall Co. Fair grounds; Info: Dianne Holman and Callie Eubanks, facebook

FEB. 24-26: IBRA Super Show; Memphis, TN; Agricenter Showplace Arena; Info: Jamie White 901-378-7470 www.nchacutting.com

CUTTING HORSE

http://wthja.com, https://mhja.info, www. brownlandfarm.com, www.mthja.com, www.ethja.org www.gulfcoastclassiccompany.com FEB. 15-MAR.26: 25th Annual Gulf Coast Winter Classics. Harrison County Fair grounds and Equestrian Center. Gulfport, MS.

www.ustrc.com, www.jx2events.com JAN. 7-8: Meridian, MS. Lauderdale Co AgriCenter. NTRL/3Div WSTR/Truck FEB. 10-12: Memphis, TN. Agricenter Show Place Arena. USTRC/WSTR Super Q Muddy River Classic

SADDLE CLUB

www.apha.com, www.missphc.com, tph conline11.homestead.com, www.volunteer statepintoorg.com

FEB. 3-4: Jackson, MS. Kirk Fordice Equine Center. MPHC- Dixie National POR. Info: www.missphc.com

HUNTER/JUMPER PAINT/PINTO QUARTER HORSE SHOWS

www.tqha.org, www.mqha.org, www. wtqha.org, www.midsouthquarterhorse. com, facebook Mid-South Breeders FEB. 10-12: Nashville, TN. TQHA Annual Convention. Info: Keith Glad 615-8722905

RACING

www.nationalsteeplechase.com, www. bloodhorse.com, https://www.oaklawn. com/racing/calendar/ JAN. 1, and then every Saturday in Jan. and Feb: Hot Springs, AR. Oaklawn. Info: https://www.oaklawn.com/racing/calendar/

www.americanranchhorse.net, www.volrha. com Info: Parker Bradford 901-651-1145 JAN. 20: Jackson, MS. Dixie National Color Bonanza.

Facebook: Ingram Mills Saddle Club. Hol ly Springs, MS. Marshall Co. Fairgrounds. Cook’s Lake Saddle Club. 4269 N. Wat kins, Memphis, TN. Info: Wes (901) 5703595. Cookslakesaddleclub.com Woodstock Cuba Saddle Club. 7211 Wood stock Cuba Rd. Millington, TN. Info: John (901) 412-0327. mywcsc.com

www.ustpa.com, www.rsnc.us Gould Arena. Ranch Sorting. Info: 901651-1145

FEB. 18-19: City Forest, MS. DJ Cowhors es Show. Info: www.ustpa.com To have your event listed please Email event info to info@mshorsereview.com

MISSISSIPPI HORSE PARK

ROANE STATE EXPO CENTER

TENNESSEE MILLER COLISEUM MTSU

UT MARTIN AG PAVILLION

INTERCOLLEGIATE/INTERSCHOLASTIC

LITTLE BRITCHES RODEO

COWBOY CHURCH HORSE SALES/ADOPTIONS CLASSES AND CLINICS BARREL RACING

RODEOS & BULL RIDING

TENNESSEE HS RODEO ASSOCIATION

GAITED HORSES RANCH HORSE