January 2024
The Winter Horse Care Issue HORSE HEALTH
NEW RESEARCH PROVIDES CLARITY AROUND THE TREATMENT OF EQUINE OSTEOARTHRITIS P. 4
BUSINESS BREYER® HONORS HORSE-HUMAN CONNECTION WITH CODY’S WISH P. 6
PEOPLE & HORSES GREENER PASTURES SUZANNE MAYO: ENJOYING THE BEAUTY OF QUARTER HORSES P. 9
FESCUE TOXICOSIS IN HORSES P. 10
2 | Mid-South Horse Review
January 2024
Volume 34 | Number 5 Publisher & President: Lauren Abbott labbott@thehorsereview.com 901- 279- 4634
Editorial:
Ashlee Pigford: Managing Editor Ashlee@mshorsereview.com Amye VanSickle: Contributing Writer Gary Cox: Contributing Photographer Grace Netter: Contributing Writer Paul Nolte: Contributing Photographer Rachel Ledet: Contributing Writer
Business Office:
Andrea Winfrey: Office & Accounts Manager andrea@mshorsereview.com
Advertising & Marketing Amye VanSickle: Multimedia Account Executive Amye@mshorsereview.com
Mailing:
P.O. Box 594 Arlington, TN 38002 901-867-1755
Subscriptions
Subscriptions are $55 annually for print and digital access. email: info@mshorsereview.com To submit articles, artwork and press
releases please email: labbott@thehorsereview.com
We cannot guarantee publication or return of manuscripts or artwork. reproduction of editorial content, photographs or advertising is strictly prohibited without written permission of the publisher.
Published by
Ford Abbott Media, LLC
www.thehorsereview.com
January 2024
CONTENTS Page 4: News New Research Provides Clarity Around the Treatment of Equine Osteoarthritis By Hannah Skallman | Exponent PR
Page 5: News Keeneland’s 2024 Spring Meet Stakes Schedule Features 100th Running of Grade 1, $1 Million Toyota Blue Grass Courtesy of Keeneland
Page 6: News Breyer® Honors Horse-Human Connection with Cody’s Wish Courtesy of Breyer
Page 7: News Brooke USA Raises $477,881 Toward Ambitious $1.5 Million Goal By Amye VanSickle , RN, BSN
Page 8: From the Experts The Insurance Man Cometh: Why you’re seeing increasing costs By Jonathan Fortenberry
Page 9: People & Horses Suzanne Mayo: Enjoying the Beauty of the Quarter Horse By Grace Netter
Page 10: Greener Pastures
Fescue Toxicosis Prevention By Chris Cooper, PhD, and Kyla Szemplinski, MS with UT-TSU Shelby County Extension Office
Page 12- 19: Winter Horse Care Focus: Winter Horse Care Basics, Stall Bedding, Blanketing, Keeping Water Thawed, Hay Consumption and Nutrition Articles by Amy VanSickle and Lauren Abbott
Page 21-23:
MarketPlace & Events
January 2024
Mid-South Horse Review | 3
Publisher’s Note New Year, New Goals and New Beginnings
Lauren Abbott Riding her horse, Kevin, at the December ExEL Show in Germantown, Tenn. Photo by: Annelise Janine Photography | www.annelisejanine.com
Happy New Year, Horse Lovers! A New Year means new beginnings, and what better way to start fresh than with our beloved four-legged friends? As equestrians, we understand the importance of goal-setting and planning for the year ahead. This year, I have a lot of personal riding goals, specifically with my trusty steed Kevin, and I am eager and excited for the New Year, a new
show season, and new beginnings. Kevin has become my steadfast companion over the last 18 months while we have been in training, and I have big plans for him in 2024. I am very excited to bring him home after a year and a half of training. I have been waiting for this moment for a very long time, and after owning him since January 2021 he will finally arrive at the
Abbott Farm. I plan to spend the first couple of months getting him settled at his new home, and working with him in a new riding arena, and field. I know he will adjust very well so I am aiming to attend the West Tennessee Hunter Jumper March Schooling Show. This show will be a great opportunity for us to continue growing as a team and have fun as we progress. We’ll be practicing at home, but also trailering over to a few trainers’ barns to help us progress, especially in jumping. In April, Kevin and I will be participating in our first combined training event at Panther Creek Stables. This event will test our skills in both dressage and jumping and I’m excited to show how far he has come in his training with Robyn Miller at Point Pleasant Farm. It will be an exciting challenge for us both and I fully expect him to make me look good since he has become the steady teacher. Throughout the rest of the year, I plan to cross-train Kevin in dressage, hacking him out in the open field at my farm, and progressing in jumping to see where we both thrive as a team. I feel he is very well suited for the Hunter ring, but I’d love to see how he progresses in lower level Show Jumpers as he becomes more seasoned at length-
en and shorten his stride between jumps. I know there may be some challenges along the way, but I’m excited to see how we progress. And the ExEL Shows and other Memphis-area schooling events will help us both get more comfortable in a competition setting. In closing, a New Year means a chance for new beginnings in every area of our lives, including our time spent with our beloved horses. It is a great time to look back over the accomplishments in the previous year while looking ahead to things one hopes to accomplish in the New Year. I returned to riding and the show ring after eight long years away. That was such a huge goal of mine in 2023, and now that I have checked that off my list my next goals include maintaining a consistent training schedule, having fun, and to practice gratitude for the life I once thought of giving up. Always remember that you’re never too old to start something new, or to return to something you loved. The New Year is a perfect time to make big, hairy, and scary goals that will help set the pace for the next twelve months ahead. Cheers to tackling our equestrian goals in 2024 and Happy New Year!
4 | Mid-South Horse Review
January 2024
News Health: Regenerative Medicine
New Research Provides Clarity Around the Treatment of Equine Osteoarthritis
By Hannah Skallman | Exponent PR
A Study Comparing the Concentration of Alpha-2-Macroglobulin in ProStride® APS, Restigen PRP® and Alpha 2EQ® Devices Zoetis Inc. completed a recent study investigating alpha-2-macroglobulin (A2M) and other prominent proteins in regenerative medicine devices that help manage equine osteoarthritis (OA), including Pro-Stride® APS, Restigen® PRP and Alpha2EQ® devices. Results from the direct comparison were completed in partnership with leading research universities and an independent veterinary practice. The multi-center study provides insights and increased clarity about the concentration of A2M in devices used for the management of equine osteoarthritis. Two clear findings emerged from the study: The plasma output volume, A2M concentration and plasma protein composition was equivalent between the three devices. The 30mLs of platelet-poor plasma generated by the Pro-Stride APS and Restigen PRP devices contained the same concentrations of 16 plasma proteins (including A2M) as the final output of the Alpha2EQ device.1
In addition to the platelet derived growth factors and white blood cell derived anti-inflammatory cytokines contained in the cellular output of Pro-Stride and Restigen, the A2M concentration was significantly higher than the final plasma output of Alpha2EQ.1 “This research provides guidance for equine veterinarians seeking a comprehensive option to help manage osteoarthritis for horses entrusted in their care,” shared Dr. Nathan Voris, Director of Equine Technical Services at Zoetis. “Our team is proud to invest in studies designed to help improve the profession’s understanding around the composition and therapeutic benefit of our orthobiologic devices. “The clinically relevant data from this, and other recent studies, illustrates that Pro-Stride and Restigen concentrate a variety of anti-inflammatory cytokines, growth factors and plasma proteins that are beneficial in addressing very complex diseases like osteoarthritis and soft tissue injuries,” concludes Dr. Voris. The research was completed in partnership with Veterinary Medical Schools at the University of Pennsylvania and Colorado State University as well as a private equine practice in Missouri. The Zoetis Animal Health Research and Development team completed the mass spec plasma protein analysis in Kalamazoo, Michigan. “Managing osteoarthritis calls for a comprehensive mix of plasma proteins, anti-inflammatory cytokines and anabolic growth factors,” explains Kyla Ortved, DVM, PhD, DACVS, DACVSMR, Associate Profes-
sor of Large Animal Surgery, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine. “Effective therapy requires addressing multiple disease pathways, so a cellular component may be essential along with plasma proteins. This study helps affirm the concentration of A2M with laboratory verified data; veterinarians have found success with the Pro-Stride APS device in the field and the research results help support our understanding of the components of each device.” Osteoarthritis is a complex biologic process that affects many horses as they age. A targeted approach that takes on multiple disease pathways is needed to help manage pain and promote healing. Zoetis’ Pro-Stride and Restigen devices are comprehensive therapies for the management of osteoarthritis and soft tissue injuries. Pro-Stride and Restigen, together with CenTrate® BMA (horse bone marrow aspirate device), make up Zoetis’ family of regenerative medicine devices to help manage equine lameness. In 20 minutes or less, a Pro-Stride device can be used to help produce a concentrated solution of cells, platelets, growth factors and anti-inflammatory cytokines to help reduce pain and manage osteoarthritis. Processing can take place right at the farm, stable or clinic and it has been shown to improve a horse’s lameness grade for up to one year after a single injection, and in some cases even longer.2,3 A summary of the research can be found online at https://www.zoetisus.com/con-
tent/pages/Products/Horses/Equine-regenerative-medicine-Resources/documents/ RMD-Pro-Stride-Restigen-A2M-Comparison.pdf?utm_medium=display&utm_ source=zoetisequine&utm_campaign=RMD&utm_content=Ownerproductlink. Contact your local Zoetis Equine Specialist or call 1-888-ZOETIS-1 with questions. On Thursday, November 30, Zoetis Equine hosted an in-person sunrise session with the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) in San Diego, Calif. Panelists included researchers directly from this study who spoke to their work and key learnings. Learn more about Zoetis Equine’s Regenerative Medicine Device portfolio here: https://www.zoetisus.com/products/horses/ equine-regenerative-medicine References: 1. Zoetis Data on File: 23EQRGRMD-01-03. 2023. 2. Bertone AL, Ishihara A, Zekas LJ, et al. Evaluation of a single intra-articular injection of autologous protein solution for treatment of osteoarthritis in horses. Am J Vet Res. 2014;75(2):141-151. doi: 10.2460/ajvr.75.2.141. 3. Muir R, Reisbig N, Baria M, et al. The concentration of plasma provides additional bioactive proteins in platelet and autologous protein solutions. The American J of Sports Medicine. 2019;47(8):19551963.
January 2024
Mid-South Horse Review | 5
News Racing
Keeneland’s 2024 Spring Meet Stakes Schedule Features 100th Running of Grade 1, $1 Million Toyota Blue Grass Courtesy of Keeneland
Keeneland will award a season record $8.1 million for 19 stakes and celebrate the 100th running of the $1 million Toyota Blue Grass (G1) during its 2024 Spring Meet, which will cover 16 days from April 5-26. Other Grade 1 races during the meet – an early season showcase of talented Thoroughbreds representing leading owners, trainers and jockeys – are the Central Bank Ashland, the Madison, the Maker’s Mark Mile and the Jenny Wiley – each worth $600,000 apiece. Contributing to the Spring Meet stakes purses is a total of $1.5 million available from the Kentucky Thoroughbred Development Fund (KTDF), pending approval from the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission. “Lucrative purses and outstanding competition make Keeneland’s Spring Meet a highlight of the racing calendar for horsemen, horseplayers and fans during the first half of the year,” Keeneland Vice President of Racing Gatewood Bell said. “We look forward to hosting the country’s best horses and their connections here in April.” Milestone for Toyota Blue Grass The Toyota Blue Grass, an iconic springtime fixture for 3-year-olds, has been held at Keeneland since the track’s first Spring Meet in April 1937. Scheduled on the first Saturday of the season, the 1 1/8-mile race was inaugurated in 1911 at the Kentucky Association track located near downtown Lexington and was run there through 1914 and again from 1919 to 1926. Following the closure of the Kentucky Association track, the Blue Grass was continued at Keeneland and has been won by such Racing Hall of Famers as Bimelech (1940), Coaltown (1948), Round Table (1957), Northern Dancer (1964), Arts and Letters (1969), Riva Ridge (1972), Alydar (1978), Spectacular Bid (1979), Holy Bull (1994) and Skip Away (1996). Toyota began to sponsor the Blue Grass in 1996. The purse of the race was $1 million in 2015-2019 and returned to seven figures in 2022. Central Bank Ashland opens season The first day of next year’s Spring Meet features three stakes for 3-year-olds an-
chored by the 86th running of the Central Bank Ashland, an early season objective for top sophomore fillies at 1 1/16 miles. The day features two other stakes each worth $400,000: the Transylvania (G3), at 1 1/16 miles on the turf, and the Lafayette, a 7-furlong dirt race. This marks the 20th running of a Keeneland stakes sponsored by Central Bank, which sponsored the Transylvania from 2005-2009 and began sponsoring the Ashland in 2010. The Toyota Blue Grass leads five stakes on the first Saturday of the season. Also on the card are the $600,000 Madison (G1), for fillies and mares at 7 furlongs on the dirt; the $400,000 Appalachian (G2) Presented by Japan Racing Association, for 3-year-old fillies at 1 mile on the grass; the $350,000
Shakertown (G2), for 3-year-olds and up at 5½ furlongs on the turf; and the $300,000 Commonwealth (G3), for older horses at 7 furlongs on the dirt. In addition to being signature Spring Meet stakes, the Toyota Blue Grass and the Central Bank Ashland are prominent on the national racing calendar. Both stakes are worth 100 points on the Road to the Kentucky Derby and Road to the Kentucky Oaks, respectively, with the winners of each stakes earning 50 qualifying points to the respective classic. The early nomination deadline for the two races is Feb. 17. Late nominations are due March 20. Giant’s Causeway upgraded for 2024 Stakes action for 3-year-olds will con-
tinue Sunday of opening weekend with the $400,000 Beaumont (G2) Presented by Keeneland Select, at 7 furlongs, 184 feet, on the dirt for fillies, and the $250,000 Palisades, at 5½ furlongs on the grass. On Friday, April 12, Keeneland will run two turf stakes: the $600,000 Maker’s Mark Mile (G1), for 4-year-olds and up at 1 mile, and the $250,000 FanDuel Limestone, for 3-year-old fillies going 5½ furlongs. Three stakes the following day are the $600,000 Jenny Wiley (G1), a 1 1/16-mile turf race for fillies and mares; the $400,000 Stonestreet Lexington (G3), for 3-year-olds at 1 1/16 miles; and the $300,000 Giant’s Causeway (G3), a 5½-furlong turf race for fillies and mares. For 2024, the Giant’s Causeway was upgraded to a Grade 3 event after being a listed stakes since 2006. Keeneland also increased the purse of the race by $50,000. The Stonestreet Lexington, which is the final prep on this year’s Road to the Kentucky Derby, will award 20 Derby qualifying points. Of those, 10 points will go to the winner. On the final days of the Spring Meet, Keeneland will run four graded stakes for older horses. The $300,000 Baird Doubledogdare (G3), for fillies and mares at 1 1/16 miles on the dirt, will be held Friday, April 19. Two stakes on Saturday, April 20 are the $350,000 Elkhorn (G2), at 1½ miles on the turf, and the $300,000 Ben Ali (G3), at 1 3/16 miles on the dirt. Keeneland will bridge the gap between racing and auctions on closing day, Friday, April 26. The race card will feature the $300,000 Bewitch (G3), for fillies and mares at 1½ miles on the turf. Following the races, Keeneland will hold the April Selected Horses of Racing Age Sale. To view a chart of the schedule online, visit Keeneland 2024 Spring Meet Stakes Schedule: https://www.keeneland.com/ media/news/keenelands-2024-spring-meetstakes-schedule-features-100th-runninggrade-1-1-million *Kentucky Thoroughbred Development Fund. All KTDF purse allotments are subject to approval of the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission.
6 | Mid-South Horse Review
January 2024
News Business
Breyer® Honors Horse-Human Connection with Cody’s Wish
Cody’s Wish with Stephanie Macejko, Breyer VP of Marketing Courtesy of Breyer
New Model Immortalizes a Champion Racehorse & Power of a Wish Granted Each time the racing gate doors rung open, more than just potential prestige and prize money rode with the Thoroughbred racehorse Cody’s Wish (Curlin – Dance Card x Tapit). The elegant bay stallion, in addition to being a Grade I Champion, shared a special connection with Cody Dorman, a young man with a genetic disorder who met the horse as a foal. Their inspiring story, which captured national media attention and the hearts of people around the world, will now be immortal-
ized in a gorgeous Breyer model horse, allowing fans to own a piece of the unique horse-human connection that has touched so many. Cody’s Wish and his namesake met in 2018 during a visit to Gainsborough Farm in Versailles, Kentucky sponsored by Make-A-Wish Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana. To everyone’s amazement, one foal walked straight over to Cody and laid his head in his lap. As a result of his genetic syndrome, Cody used a wheelchair and communicated via tablet, but it was clear to see there were no barriers when it came to his connection with the foal. Inspired by this touching event, the horse’s owners named him Cody’s Wish. As it turns out, that same foal was destined for greatness. In 2021, following a trio of third place finishes, Cody’s Wish won his first race at Churchill Downs with
Dorman in attendance. In 2022, the horse was entered in the Grade I Forego Stakes in Saratoga, where he upset the favorite and proved himself a true competitor. But his prowess on the racetrack was soon to be accentuated by his relationship with Cody, who predicted the stallion’s win in his next race, the Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile. “[He] will win when I’m there in person,” Dorman stated about the stallion’s chances, and when Cody’s Wish passed the competition in the final stretch to win by a head, NBC Sports’ race caller Larry Collmus summed up the finish with: “The wish has come true! That one’s for you, Cody!” Cody’s Wish received the 2022 Vox Populi Award, which recognizes racehorses whose stories and achievements resound with the public, before kicking off his 2023 season with back to back wins in the Churchill Downs Stakes and Grand I Metropol-
itan Handicap. Dorman, of course, was in attendance. “Cody’s Wish is a living example of how horses can change lives and inspire hope,” said Stephanie Macejko, Breyer’s Vice President of Marketing. “In Breyer’s 40+ year history, we have captured many inspiring and special horses, but there’s something about Cody’s Wish and his impact on his namesake that touches something in every horse lover. Every time this horse steps onto the racetrack, everyone knows he is running for more than just a win, he’s running for Cody.” The journey of Cody’s Wish’s career could not have ended in a more perfect swan song. In a hard-fought battle with Preakness winner National Treasure where he crossed the wire by a nose, Cody’s Wish won his final race before retiring to stud: the 2023 Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile, where his story had captured so many hearts a year earlier. Cheers, tears, and raucous applause flowed from both thousands of fans and the Dorman family themselves as Cody’s Wish was led into the winner’s circle for the final time with his boy by his side. Tragically, Cody Dorman passed away from a medical issue the following day just shy of his 18th birthday (he hadn’t been expected to live past his 2nd birthday). The unbelievable relationship between Cody and Cody’s Wish will continue to inspire for years to come. In recognition of Cody Dorman and Cody’s Wish, Breyer is making a $10,000 donation to Make-A-Wish Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana, the nonprofit organization that sparked their connection. Their mission is to grant life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses, and Cody Dorman’s relationship with a champion racehorse began with them. With this donation, Breyer hopes to honor Cody’s memory by making more wishes come true for the children that need them most. In early December Breyer’s Cody’s Wish model became available at Breyer retailers as well as BreyerHorses.com.
January 2024
Mid-South Horse Review | 7
News Nonprofit
Brooke USA Raises $477,881 Toward Ambitious $1.5 Million Goal Courtesy of Brooke USA
“The Donkey Project” Seeks to Raise Funds & Awareness for Working Equines Brooke USA’s “The Donkey Project” is the organization’s most ambitious campaign to date with a fundraising goal of $1.5 million between July 1, 2023, and June 30, 2024. As December 10, 2023, $477,881 has been raised toward supporting a broad array of funding priorities through work in Burkina Faso, Cuba, Ethiopia, India, Kenya, Senegal, South Africa, and the United States. To date, 716 donors from all 50 states have made 1,377 gifts to advance the programs Brooke USA is funding and/or executing around the globe. Approximately, 94% of those gifts were less than $1,000, and 64% were less than $250, indicating the broad-based support of Brooke USA’s mission. Brooke USA received philanthropic commitments of more than $5,000 from 16 major donors. “As we look at our past end-of-year gifts from our generous contributors, we estimate to be at $600,000 by December 31. We know that our friends supported us during Giving Tuesday reaching an overwhelming $55,000 in one day, and as the calendar year approaches, we are very optimistic of our success with an additional $125,000 through the end of our fiscal year,” said Emily Dulin, CEO of Brooke USA. “The Donkey Project” is intended to grow the organization’s depth of work while raising more funds in support of working donkeys and the people who depend on them for survival in vulnerable communities worldwide. The Donkey Project” also aims to radically raise the profile of donkeys all over the world. With their latest popularity, thanks to the attention secured by movies and documentaries such as EO, The Banshees of Inisherin, Triangle of Sadness and Navalny, many are calling 2023 the year of the donkey with these stoic animals rightfully portrayed as intelligent and calm. Funds raised through “The Donkey Project” are already making a difference across the globe. Since its launch in July, Brooke
USA has already made gifts to its sister in partnership with the EQUUS Foundaorganization Brooke: Action for Working tion, continues to provide Bridge Grants to Horses & Donkeys equine rescue groups to underwrite com- “As we look at our past end-of- in need of emergency passionate handling year gifts from our generous assistance. training, veterinary A portion of the supplies in remote contributors, we estimate to be funds raised have health posts, wom- at $600,000 by December 31. We been allocated to en’s and children’s Brooke USA’s advoknow that our friends supeducational groups, cacy program which ported us during Giving Tues- directs efforts at the balanced feed initiatives and mobile day reaching an overwhelming Federal level in suphorseshoeing units $55,000 in one day, and as the port of the Ejiao Act. in West Africa, East US Rep. Don Beyer calendar year approaches, Africa, and India re(D-VA) reintroduced we are very optimistic of our the Ejiao Act in the spectively. Brooke USA has also made House of Represensuccess with an additional gifts toward improv$125,000 through the end of tatives to ban the sale ing animal welfare and trade of ejiao our fiscal year,” in Cuba and South (donkey-hide gelaAfrica, through Cu- Emily Dulin, CEO of Brooke USA. tin) products in the ba’s Horses and United States. EjiARRC – Animal Relief of Rural Communi- ao (pronounced “eh-gee-yow”) is a gelatin ties, respectively. In addition, Brooke USA, made from boiling the hides of donkeys. It
is used primarily in cosmetics and traditional Chinese medicines. The growing market for ejiao imperils donkey populations around the world and has spurred a cruel global trade that causes tremendous animal suffering and severely impacts communities that rely on donkeys for survival. “We are confident that if everyone does their part, we will meet our mid-campaign goal. We are especially grateful to our donors in this tough philanthropic landscape where animal welfare continues to take a back seat. We just want everyone to know that we are not only committed to improving the lives of working equines but also to increasing the economic wellbeing of those who depend on them. In the developing world, the lives of humans and animals are intertwined. I don’t know of another organization that focuses on the betterment of people and animals at the same time,” added Dulin. About Brooke USA Foundation (Brooke USA): The mission of Brooke USA is to significantly improve the health, welfare and productivity of working horses, donkeys and mules and the people who depend on them for survival worldwide. We are committed to sustainable economic development by reducing poverty, increasing food security, ensuring access to water, providing a means to education, and raising basic standards of living through improved equine health and welfare. We accomplish this by raising funds and responsibly directing them to the areas of greatest need. Brooke USA strives to alleviate the suffering and vulnerability of developing communities by funding and implementing programs that improve the quality of life and health of working equines and thereby positively impacting their economic sustainability, protecting the planet, ensuring gender equality, and guaranteeing life on land resilience. We want to see healthy, happy people and equines that work in partnership to achieve sustainable local economies.
8 | Mid-South Horse Review
January 2024
From the Experts Sponsored Content
The Insurance Man Cometh: Why you’re seeing increasing costs By Jonathan Fortenberry
ited companies that want to insure boarding, training, and riding lesson operations. Or why limited companies are okay with you having several large animals at your house. I would encourage you to use a company that understands your lifestyle and knows how to insure your properly. There are some really good ones out there. Second, I would not underinsure my stuff. That may save money now, but will absolutely cost an arm and a leg at claim time, if you have one. Please ask your company to insure your barns, arenas, and homes at replacement cost. Have the ability to replace that structure if you were to lose it. It’s important to know the square footage of your structure so you can know what it costs to replace it. Finally, there’s the amount of risk you want your insurance company to take. At the core of insurance, it comes down to risk transfer. If you don’t have any insurance, you take all of the risk. When you buy insurance, you transfer that risk to the insur-
I’ll seek to end this article horse-related, but first I need to lay a foundation. Including myself, most of us are seeing increasing costs everywhere. Hay, feed, diesel, groceries… everything is up. So just to keep things level in our households or businesses, we have two options: raise revenue (make more) or lower expenses (cut costs). That doesn’t account for accomplishing our growth or savings goals. That’s just to keep results the same as before these increases. Insurance companies aren’t exempt from the same things we are feeling. To some degree, they are at a disadvantage when it comes to how quickly things have changed. Let’s start with actuaries. These are really smart people that probably went to MIT, and they are really good at math. They make decisions based on blocks of time, usually 5 years or so. If we go back to 2020, they would have been looking at information from 2014-2019. In that block of time, we had fewer storms than we’ve had recently, and we didn’t have massive inflation in a very short amount of time. So they would set rates, or insurance costs, based on having enough money to pay claims and overhead costs with that information. In 2021, they discovered people had driv-
en much fewer miles due to quarantines, so many companies went as far as issuing refunds on auto policies. Since everyone was home, there were a ton of home renovation projects or outbuildings constructed. Coupled with quarantine-based supply chain issues, this high demand for materials sent building costs through the roof. Throw other pandemic-related financial decisions in and we wound up in a high inflationary, high demand environment. And on top of that the increase in storms and weather-related losses. So in the last few years, companies have planned to bring in a certain number and have been faced with paying out much higher numbers than anticipated. That left most of them scrambling to find a plan to rebalance. Whew, let’s take a collective deep breath. So now we know strictly from a cost standpoint, the rates have had to go up and some companies have just decided to stop issuing policies in certain loss-heavy states or certain types of policies altogether. What do we do? How do we handle the situation we’re in? There are only a few companies that understand the horse lifestyle and what it takes to participate in it. That’s why you see lim-
ance company. The company will offer you a lower rate if you take more of the risk back. That’s a deductible. So if you’re in a position to take a higher deductible, the company will lower the rate for you. Its a way for you and the company to work together to find a solution that works for all parties. In practice, you could raise the deductible on your barn or home. Or you could raise your deductible on your horse’s medical policy. You’re taking more risk at this point, and you should be rewarded with lower costs. It’s not super fun to talk about insurance, but it’s something we all live with. And, we might as well get the best policy for us, at the best rate for us. Have this conversation with your agent, or if you don’t have one, just call me. Until next time, remember Will Rogers once said “The best way out of a difficulty is through it.”
January 2024
Mid-South Horse Review | 9
People & Horses
Suzanne Mayo: Enjoying the Beauty of the Quarter Horse
By Grace Netter
Sometimes a chapter of new beginnings can bring unexpected opportunities, even when one least expects it. After an injury allowed Suzanne Mayo, 66, to discover the world of the American Quarter Horse, she hasn’t been able to look back since. Shown the wonderful world of horses by her father, Suzanne began riding at a young age. Her family was eager to indulge in her passion for horses, having her share a horse with her father to hone her skills. It wasn’t until college that she began focusing on showing. Her ambition led her to becoming a professional in the Hunter/Jumper industry until she graduated, having taught hunt seat lessons and running a small boarding operation. After graduation, Suzanne realized that she wanted to continue showing as an amateur. Two nationally-ranked amateur horses later, she showed Hunters for the next 30 years. It wasn’t until a hip injury struck, that Suzanne got introduced to the world of the
American Quarter Horse Association, or the AQHA. Like many equestrians, when the doctor told her that she wasn’t allowed to ride horses again after her surgery, she began to expand her horizons to see how she could get back in the saddle. The movement of jumping seemed to take too much of a toll on her muscles, so she wanted to try something new. Thinking that it might be “easier,” Suzanne began to dabble into Western riding, especially fascinated by the AQHA, and the many different disciplines within it. Even though it was not as easy as she had thought it might be, it wasn’t long until she had fallen in love. Suzanne spent the next decade learning the new range of competitions within the Quarter Horse circuit, to figure out which was best suited for her. From there she invested in a nice horse and training program, and the rest was history. While there are a lot of individual disciplines within the industry, she has decided to mainly focus her time in the performance side of the discipline. So much so that she even developed a small Quarter Horse breeding program. When asked about showing and own-
ing within the AQHA, Suzanne states that, “unlike in the Hunter/Jumper world, what’s unique about AQHA shows is that if you show as an amateur, you have to also own the horse that you show. The only example of when this is not the case is in the professional, open classes. Because of this, I show as both the owner and rider of my horses. The AQHA is a huge association that is super strong, and does a good job at supporting the professionals and amateurs. Their judges have to go through an extensive training and filtering process that keeps things in check. It’s just really different from the USEF, which is more of an umbrella association, rather than a breed association. They do a lot to support and promote that breed, which you don’t get elsewhere. The breeders also have a support system in AQHA, and there is a healthy market for younger horses. That way, people have a reason to keep buying and breeding. There are some parts that are not for me, but it’s like that within every part of the horse industry.” It wasn’t just the love of the sport that kept Suzanne involved with Quarter Horses; it was the love of the breed itself. According to her, “most of them are so good-minded, and they really are typically a very easy-going, trainable, and quiet-natured horse. That’s not always the case, but for the most part, that is what they are known for.” Back in her Hunter/Jumper days, Suzanne showed a
Quarter Horse, who she said, “wasn’t flashy, or the best jumper, but was reliable.” This reliability is what she fell in love with. Other than Quarter Horses, Suzanne also mentioned dipping her toes into the Hackney Pony world with her son, having fun helping run the Saddlebred show circuit. Despite this, she is always still drawn back to Quarter Horses. Aside from her Quarter Horses, Suzanne also runs a separate horse business with her husband. Based in Williamson County, TN, they both work as horse show suppliers and producers. Ranging from show jumps to portable stalls, they serve shows and fairgrounds of all disciplines, all over the country. Until last year, they produced the Kentucky National Show in Lexington, but have since sold it to Split Rock Jumping. As for the future, Suzanne would really like to keep showing as long as she feels comfortable. She believes that she would not like to be a trail or pleasure rider, as she loves to compete. Her goal is to continue her riding career into the “Super Select” division at AQHA shows, which is age 70 and above. To her, Quarter Horses are a life-long commitment.
10 | Mid-South Horse Review
January 2024
Greener Pastures Fescue Toxicosis Prevention broodmares owners should do is fescue toxicosis prevention. But what is and causes fescue toxicosis? How can owners tell if their mares have fescue toxicosis? What can broodmare owners do to prevent it? If your mare does have fescue toxicosis, what is the treatment plan?
By Chris Cooper, PhD, and Kyla Szemplinski, MS with UT-TSU Shelby County Extension Office Foaling season is here and it can be an exciting event for broodmare owners. Foals bring new responsibilities and there are plenty of foaling management steps owners should do to ensure their new arrivals start life off on the right hooves. One of the most critical management steps
What is and causes Fescue Toxicosis Tall fescue (Lolium arundinaceum or Festuca arundinacea) is a popular forage amongst horse owners due to its nutrient composition and heat tolerance. However, it contains an endophyte called Epicloe coenophialum, formerly known as Neotyphodiumm coenophialum and Acremonium coenophialum. This endophyte grows naturally on fescue and it has a symbiotic, beneficial relationship with the grass. But, too much fescue can have negative effects on all livestock species that consume it, with horses being the most sensitive. Signs of Fescue Toxicosis Broodmares with fescue toxicosis will exhibit multiple signs of toxicity. The symptoms can include: 1. Prolonged gestation periods 2. Poor udder development 3. Little to no milk production (agalactic) 4. Increased risk for foal and mare mortality due to dystocia 5. Red bag delivery 6. Lethargic and immune challenged foals
Fescue Toxicosis Prevention Fescue toxicosis prevention is simple for all broodmares owners to undertake. First, owners should test their pastures for endophyte infected grasses. For residents in Tennessee, the Soil, Plant and Pest Center in Nashville will analyze samples. For instructions on how to collect and mail samples, TN residents should go to the following website: https://soillab. tennessee.edu/plant-pests/plant-disease-diagnosis/. Samples should be shipped in a plastic bag with a dry paper towel. Samples should be sent immediately after collection or kept cold if not able to mail immediately. Residents in other states should contact their county’s Extension office for instructions on how to collect and where to send samples. If pasture grasses come back positive for endophytes, there are simple steps broodmare owners can take. Pregnant mares should be removed from infected pastures at least 60 days prior to their projected foaling day, with 90 days being more ideal. This greatly reduces the risk but does not entirely eliminate the possibility of fescue toxicosis. Once mares are in their transition period, they must be fed hay that is endophyte free. Horse owners should contact hay suppliers ahead of time to see if endophyte free hay is available and buy in bulk. If possible, broodmares should still be allowed a form of turn-out to prevent stocking up either in a dry-lot or if an arena can be con-
verted into a temporary turn-out space. Another option is owners could eliminate infected pastures entirely. The infected grass should be killed and replaced with an alternative crop. Endophyte-free tall fescue cultivars are available but these plants do not flourish in the South. However, destroying and replacing pasture grass can be expensive and time consuming. Treatment Plan for Infected Broodmares There are treatment options to help reduce fescue toxicosis in infected broodmares. To help encourage milk production, owners should contact their veterinarian for Domperidone. When given daily, Domperidone helps mares with mammary gland development, increase prolactin and progesterone levels, and normalize gestation periods. However, the cost of Domperidone daily dosage can add up significantly. Again, the best management step is prevention so owners MUST pull pregnant mares off at least 60-90 prior to their projected foaling date. If there are further questions about fescue toxicosis, please do not hesitate to contact your county’s Extension office. UT-TSU Shelby County Extension can be reached at 901752-1207 during normal business hours Monday through Friday 8am-4:30pm CST.
January 2024
Mid-South Horse Review | 11
12 | Mid-South Horse Review
January 2024
Focus: Winter Horse Care Horses’ Basic Needs this Winter
By Lauren Abbott
Winter weather can pose a disruption to the overall health and well-being of horses. As a result, it is important to take into consideration your horses’ specific needs and provide them with proper shelter and consistent routine during winter. In this special focus section we will discuss the basic needs for your horses throughout the remaining winter months. One of the top, basic needs for horses during winter is a proper shelter to protect them from extreme winter weather. The first step to guarantee your horses have proper shelter. It is important to inspect the roof, walls, and foundation for damages that can potentially cause drafts or leaks throughout the winter. Make necessary repairs to avoid heat loss and moisture buildup. Ensure that the barn or shelter is large enough to comfortably accommodate all your horses and that it provides adequate ventilation. Proper ventilation can help reduce humidity buildup, which can lead to respiratory problems in horses. Installing weather-resistant doors and windows, such as insulated storm doors and proper windows, can help maintain
a managable temperature inside the barn. Picking the right doors and windows can help prevent drafts and improve ventilation. Having shutters that can open and close to allow ventilation, while also blocking cold and drafty wind is ideal. If you have a shelter that is open on two sides oppose to three, or a shedrow barn facing the north or west, then your barn or shelter might benefit from temporary wind screens. Tarps can also be hung to block direct cold wind and rain to
MIXED GRASS SQAURE BALES: $6.50 MIXED GRASS ROLLS, 4X5 NET, WRAPPED: $60 BERMUDA $9.50 ALFALFA $12
provide a dry and warm space for your horses. Horses need a dry and comfortable place to rest in order to maintain good health and well-being. Stall bedding should be thick enough to provide cushioning, absorb moisture, and retain warmth. Horses tend to drink less during the winter, so provide them with clean and fresh water at all times. Using salt in food or providing salt blocks can help encourage horses to drink and stay
hydrated. Insultated buckets will also help keep water from freezing which will help keep horses drinking proper amounts even on chilly nights. Horses require a balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs throughout the year. During winter, you may need to adjust their feeding routines by increasing their intake of hay. Hay provides a natural source of warmth for horses and helps keep their digestive system working correctly. Make sure you have a reliable supply of hay during the winter and always store it in a dry area to avoid moisture buildup. Keeping horses active during the winter is crucial for their physical and mental well-being. Exercise helps keep horses healthy, which can reduce the risk of muscle and joint problems. Daily leg stretches, walks, or groundwork sessions in a dry outdoor area or in an indoor area can help keep your horses active during the winter season. While managing your horses this winter keep in mind the basics. We will discuss each of these basic needs more thoroughly: a dry and well ventilated shelter/ barn with appropriate stall bedding, blanketing horses, access to fresh water during freezing temperatures, and hay and nutrition. By managing these needs horses will maintain good health and will be ready for the warmer spring months ahead.
January 2024
Mid-South Horse Review | 13
Winter Horse Care Horse & rider Health Understanding the Winter Blues and Combatting the Equestrian “Seasonal Slump”
By Amye Van Sickle, RN, BSN
As the days grow shorter, temperatures drop, and the landscape turns cold and bare, many individuals experience a phenomenon known as the “winter blues.” This seasonal slump can affect various aspects of life, including equestrian activities. Delving into the winter blues and its impact on equestrians, arms us with knowledge to mitigate the effect winter has on us, as well as arming us with the knowledge to know what to do when we are effected. We will explore the causes, symptoms, and strategies to treat and overcome this seasonal challenge. The winter blues, also referred to as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), is a subtype of depression that occurs in certain seasons, typically during fall and winter. The exact cause of SAD is unknown, but it is believed to be linked to
reduced sunlight exposure and changes in melatonin and serotonin levels in the brain. Equestrians are not exempt from this condition and may experience a decline in mood, motivation, and overall well-being during the winter months. Like other athletes that thrive during the warmer months, equestrians usually have a lull in equine related physical activity and competition levels during winter. The winter blues can significantly impact equestrians, affecting their motivation, energy levels, and enjoyment of riding and horse care. Cold weather, limited daylight, and challenging footing conditions can make it difficult to engage in regular riding sessions and maintain a consistent training routine. Additionally, the lack of sunlight and reduced outdoor time can lead to vitamin D deficiency, further exacerbating the winter blues. One of the most effective treatments for SAD is light therapy. The best way to accomplish this, if the temperatures are more on the mild side is getting fresh air out in the sunshine. Unfortunately, that is not always possible. In the event that the temperatures are more on the harsh side, the use of light boxes can be employed. Light boxes that emit bright, artificial light can help simulate sunlight and regulate the body’s internal clock. Equestrians can incorporate light therapy by spending time near a light box or using portable light devices while grooming, tacking up, or even during indoor riding sessions. It is recommended to expose oneself to bright light for 30 minutes to an hour each day, preferably in the morning. Engaging in regular physical exercise has been proven to boost mood and alleviate symptoms of depression. Equestrians can combat the winter blues by incorporating outdoor activities and exercise into their routine. Riding, lunging, or even hand-walking their horses can provide both physical and mental stimulation, which not only will benefit the equestrian, but also benefit their horse. If outdoor riding is not possible due to unfavorable weather conditions, equestrians can consider using indoor arenas or participating in other activities such as yoga or fitness classes. Vitamin D deficiency is common during the winter months when sunlight exposure is limited. Equestrians can consult with their healthcare provider to determine if vitamin D supplementation is necessary. Adequate levels of vitamin D are crucial for maintaining overall health and well-being, and supplementation may help alleviate symptoms of the winter blues. Practicing mindfulness and stress reduction techniques can be beneficial in combating the winter blues. Equestrians
can incorporate activities such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga into their daily routine. These practices help reduce stress, increase self-awareness, and promote mental well-being. When you are trapped inside due to the inclement conditions outdoors, it is a good time to commit to focusing on creating a stronger body, by incorporating an exercise and stretching routine into your schedule. Maintaining social connections and seeking support from fellow equestrians can be invaluable in navigating the winter blues. Engaging in group rides, attending equestrian events, or joining online communities can provide a sense of belonging and support. Sharing experiences, challenges, and strategies with others who understand the equestrian lifestyle can help alleviate feelings of isolation and boost mood. This can be accomplished by simply getting together with a friend and grooming your horses. Setting realistic goals and focusing on positive reinforcement can help equestrians stay motivated and maintain a sense of accomplishment during the winter months. Breaking down larger goals into smaller, manageable tasks and rewarding oneself for progress can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Utilizing the time away from riding activities to work on mentally or physically preparing yourself to be more in shape, flexible, and stronger for the following season. If the winter blues persist and significantly impact daily life and equestrian activities, it is essential to seek professional help. Consulting with a healthcare provider, therapist, or counselor can provide additional guidance and support. They can evaluate the severity of the symptoms, provide appropriate treatment options, and help develop coping strategies specific to individual needs. Seasonal Affective Disorder can pose significant challenges for equestrians, affecting their mood, motivation, and overall enjoyment of riding and horse care. However, by understanding the causes and symptoms of the winter blues and implementing effective treatment strategies, equestrians can overcome this seasonal slump. Incorporating light therapy, engaging in regular exercise, ensuring adequate vitamin D levels, practicing mindfulness, seeking social support, setting goals, and seeking professional help when needed are all crucial steps in treating and managing the winter blues. By taking proactive measures, equestrians can maintain their passion for riding and ensure their well-being during the colder months.
14 | Mid-South Horse Review
January 2024
Section Sponsored By: Horse & rider Health Mitigating the Effects of Winter “Blues” in Horses By Amye Van Sickle, RN, BSN Winter conditions in the Mid-south can be very unpredictable. One day it is seventy-two degrees and sunny, the next fifty-nine degrees, raining, windy, and dropping to below freezing when the sun sets. The changes in temperature are hard to adjust to for both man and beast. Just when your horse begins to grow his winter coat and you are wearing a jacket to do your barn chores, we have a day that is in the mid seventy’s and everyone is sweating again. Winter can be a challenging season for equines, as they are susceptible to the effects of colder temperatures, shorter days, and decreased turnout time. Just like humans, horses also experience Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) during this time, which can lead to a range of physical and mental health issues. We will explore various strategies to help mitigate the effects of winter and SAD in equines, ensuring their well-being and overall happiness. Providing horses with suitable shelter is essential during the winter months. A well-insulated barn or a sturdy shelter can protect them from harsh weather conditions such as wind, rain, and snow. Additionally, ensuring proper ventilation within the shelter is crucial to prevent respiratory issues. Providing horses with cozy blankets can also help keep them warm and comfortable. Understanding when to blanket and when to remove blankets is also key. Maintaining a balanced diet is crucial for equines throughout the year, but it becomes even more important during winter. Horses require additional calories to generate body heat
and stay warm. Horses are grazers by nature and having the ability to have hay allows them to fulfill the desire to forage. Feeding them high-quality forage and increasing their concentrate feed can help meet their energy requirements. It is also essential to always provide them with fresh water, as dehydration can worsen the effects of winter and SAD. Regular exercise is vital for horses during the winter months to keep them physically and mentally fit. While turnout may be limited due to icy or muddy conditions, providing horses with ample exercise opportunities such as lunging, riding, or even hand-walking can help combat the winter blues. Incorporating mental stimulation through the use of toys, treat puzzles, or obstacles can also keep their minds engaged and prevent boredom. Horses can become bored and restless if left locked up in a stall all day, with no mental stimulation. One of the primary factors contributing to SAD in both humans and equines is reduced exposure to natural sunlight, as the days become shorter during the winter months. To mitigate this, consider using artificial lighting systems in the barn to simulate natural daylight. These lights can be turned on for several hours a day to help regulate the horse’s internal clock and improve their mood. However, it is crucial to consult with a veterinarian or equine behaviorist to ensure the appropriate lighting setup. Horses are social animals and thrive on companionship. During the winter months, when turnout may be limited, it is essential to provide opportunities for social interaction. If possible, turn horses out in small groups or arrange playdates with compatible equine companions. Stalling your horse
close to a pasture companion, also can prove beneficial. This can help alleviate feelings of loneliness and isolation, reducing the risk of depression and anxiety. As with humans, maintaining a consistent routine is beneficial for equines, especially during the winter months. Horses thrive on predictability, and a stable routine can help reduce stress and anxiety. Stick to a regular feeding schedule, exercise routine, and turnout plan to provide a sense of stability and security for your equine companions. It is crucial for horse owners to monitor their horses closely for any signs of SAD or winter-related issues. Watch out for symptoms such as lethargy, decreased appetite, weight loss, changes in behavior, or coat condition. If you notice any concerning signs, it is important to consult with your equine veterinarian. They can provide a thorough evaluation and recommend appropriate treatment options, which may include additional supplements, medications, or specialized therapies. Winter and Seasonal Affective Disorder can pose challenges for equines, but with proper care and attention, the effects can be mitigated. By providing adequate shelter, a balanced diet, regular exercise, mental stimulation, light therapy, social interaction, and maintaining a consistent routine, horse owners can help their equine companions navigate through the winter months with better physical and mental well-being. Remember to monitor your horses closely and seek professional help if needed, ensuring they receive the necessary support and care to thrive during this challenging season.
tnequinehospital.com
New Year, Same Mission Across our four locations, we are a team of compassionate equine health professionals dedicated to maintaining the health and optimizing the performance of our patients.
January 2024
Mid-South Horse Review | 15
Winter Horse Care
Leading Types of Stall Bedding
By Lauren Abbott
Extreme weather conditions like freezing temperatures and sleet, ice and snow can cause discomfort to our equine friends. One of the key factors in ensuring that your horses remain warm and healthy during the winter season, especially during inclement weather, is to provide proper stall bedding while horses are stalled. The Importance of Stall Bedding Stall bedding is pivotal in ensuring that your horse’s stall is warm, dry, and comfortable. Since horses spend more of their time in their stalls during winter months, it is vital that they have proper bedding to prevent illness and lameness issues. Stall bedding helps absorb urine and manure, preventing respiratory, hoof, and skin irritations and infections. It reduces ammonia smells and minimizes flies and other pests that can pose health hazards to your horses. Types of Stall Bedding Best for Horses There are various types of stall bedding available, including straw, shavings, sawdust, and wood pellets. Straw is inexpensive and readily available; however, it doesn’t absorb liquids well and can be challenging to spread. If straw is a bedding that works well with your budget consider investing in stall matts for additional cushion for your horses. Stall matts can help wet patches dry more easily and cut down on strong ammonia smells in your barn. Shavings are easy to use and absorb urine effectively; they also last longer. Sawdust is cheaper than shavings and is also absorbent, but it can cause respiratory problems due to excess amounts of dust. If you plan to use sawdust make sure your barn is well ventilated.
Wood pellets are cost-effective and highly absorbent, but they require water to expand. Additionally, they can be harder to store than other types. When choosing the right bedding for your horse’s stall, the following factors should be taken into consideration: budget, absorbency, comfort, and sustainability. Choose a bedding that is absorbent that can soak up urine and manure to keep the stall dry and odor-free. Choose a bedding that is comfortable enough to cushion your horse’s legs and prevent hock sores or other injuries. Consider a bedding that is sustainable and that can be disposed of easily and cost-effectively. Managing stalls throughout the winter: To maintain proper stall bedding during extreme winter weather events, ensure that the stalls are cleaned regularly. It is beneficial to invest in stall moisture management products like lime or Sweet PDZ to help minimize wet patches from excess urine that creates strong ammonia smells and bacteria. Change the bedding frequently to prevent the overgrowth of bacteria and fungi that can cause infections. Additionally, ensure that the stalls have enough ventilation to reduce ammonia buildup and excess dust. In conclusion, winter is a challenging time of year for our horses, owners and barn managers. Proper stall bedding is vital to keeping horses comfortable and healthy during the winter season. Finding the best stall bedding depends on budget, personal preference, storage, and ventilation. Whether considering straw, shavings, sawdust or pellets investing in proper bedding will help keep horses healthy and warm on the coldest days and nights of the year.
16 | Mid-South Horse Review
January 2024
Winter Horse Care
The Dos and Don’ts of Blanketing Horses but also by adjusting their feed as extreme weather takes place.
By Lauren Abbott As temperatures drop horse blankets are pulled off the barn shelves. Blanketing is one way to help regulate horses’ body temperature and provide necessary protection against winter elements. However, there are certain dos and don’ts that need to be observed to make sure that the horse’s welfare is not compromised. Here are top things to consider when it comes to blanketing your horse. DO: Invest in high-quality horse blankets. When it comes to horse blankets, you get what you pay for. Investing in high-quality blankets made from durable materials will save you money in the long run, especially if your horse lives outside the majority of the time. Not only will your horse be more comfortable, but good quality blankets will also last for many seasons and will save you the trouble of replacing them every year. DON’T over blanket your horse. More blankets don’t necessarily mean more warmth. Over blanketing can cause
your horse to sweat, which can lead to cold and dampness. This can be quite detrimental to their health and can increase the chances of your horse becoming ill. Ensure that your horse does not sweat while wearing a blanket by using the best-fitting blanket that is suitable for the prevailing weather conditions. DO: Monitor your horse’s body condition.
Horses need to meet their energy requirements even in cold weather to maintain their body condition. Regularly checking your horse’s body condition will help ensure that their nutritional needs are met. Thinner horses may require more insulation during winter than horses that are well-nourished. By monitoring your horse’s weight, so you know when to add or remove blankets,
DO: Take off the blanket when necessary. There will be times when your horse will need to be without a blanket. For example, when the temperatures increase and weather conditions are mild, or when your horse is stalled. Leaving a blanket on a horse for extended periods can lead to skin irritations and soreness. Ensure you are checking your horse regularly, and if needed, take the blanket off to allow for natural movement. Mid-southerners are accustom to 20 to 30 degree increases from overnight lows to daytime highs, so make sure you remove horse blankets if the daytime temperature exceeds 45- 48 degrees and it is sunny. Not every horse owner blankets their horses during the winter and that is perfectly fine, especially if your horse has proper shelter away from cold rain, sleet, ice and snow. If you do blanket then it is important to manage when blankets are needed and when they are not. Keeping these dos and don’ts in mind, along with monitoring the temperature, and taking off the blanket when necessary will help keep your horse healthy, happy, and comfortable all season long.
January 2024
Mid-South Horse Review | 17
Winter Horse Care
Managing Water Troughs and Buckets During Winter
By Lauren Abbott One of the most common challenges faced by horse owners and barn managers is keeping the water from freezing during winter. Nothing can ruin morning feeding time like frozen pipes, hoses and iced over water buckets. Having limited access to
water, especially in the winter, can lead to dehydration, colic, and other health problems in horses, so it is essential to manage it properly. Fortunately, with a little effort and some basic precautions, you can keep your horse’s water from freezing this winter. Install Tank Heaters: One of the most effective ways to keep your horse’s water from freezing is to install tank heaters. Tank heaters are electric heating devices that keep the water in the trough or tank from freezing by maintaining a constant temperature. They are easy to install and operate and come in various sizes, suitable for smaller or larger tanks or troughs. These heaters typically operate on a thermostat, which will turn on the heating element when the water temperature drops below a specific temperature. By using tank heaters, you can ensure your horses have access to clean and fresh water at all times. It is important to make sure you follow instructions to avoid any fire hazards. Many heated buckets and tank heaters must be plugged directly into outlets and not extension cords. Keeping your barn safe is the first priority so evaluate where all outlets are in relation to where your buckets and water troughs are located. Add Salt to Water Buckets: If using electric heaters is not an ideal option for your
barn you can add salt to your horse’s water. This is an easy way to help prevent water from freezing. Salt lowers the freezing point of water, making it less likely to freeze even in harsh winter temperatures. In addition, salt can help encourage your horses to drink more water, which is essential for their overall health and well-being. You can add a tablespoon or two of salt to each gallon of water to help keep the water thawed. Insulate Water Troughs: Water troughs and buckets, whether metal or plastic are the first thing to freeze in the winter. By insulating troughs and buckets, you can help keep the water from freezing and maintain its temperature. An easy way to insulate troughs is by using an insulation kit designed for tanks or troughs. These kits typically include a foam blanket that wraps around the tank, providing extra insulation to protect against the harsh winter elements. Other ways to insulate your bucket include DIY methods which we have published. You can read more about other recommended DIY methods here: https://www.midsouthhorsereview.com/keeping-the-watertrough-thawed. Keep Water Moving: Moving water is less likely to freeze than still water, and by keeping water moving, you can prevent it from
turning into ice. You can keep water moving by installing water overflow systems or using automatic waterers. Automatic waterers continually refill water troughs, forcing water to circulate, which discourages freezing. Alternatively, you can add a small submersible pump to circulate the water, keeping it moving and preventing it from freezing. An inexpensive tip is to use a plastic bottle filled with water and a cup of salt. The salt will prevent the water inside the bottle from freezing and the bottle will float which will help keep the water in the bucket or trough from icing over. Lastly, always remember to unhook the hose from your water source. Frost freeze pipes ensure you have running water even on the coldest days. In some instances some frost freeze pipe handles might freeze. You can purchase frost freeze pipe handle covers that will insulate the handle. By covering the handle with an insulated cover and a bucket it will keep cold air and wind from freezing the handle. By following these tips and others found on thehorsereview.com you can keep your horses hydrated and your water flowing throughout the winter months.
18 | Mid-South Horse Review
Winter Horse Care
How Much Hay Does Your Horse Need During Extreme Cold?
By Lauren Abbott Temperatures are dipping below freezing. Since horses need to maintain their body temperature during cold weather, they require additional food and hay to keep them warm and healthy. If you’re a horse owner or barn manager, you might be wondering
how much hay your horses need during extreme cold. Before we dive into how much hay to feed your horse, it’s important to understand their nutritional needs. Horses require a significant amount of fiber in their diet to keep their digestive system healthy. The majority of a horse’s diet should come from hay or grass, supplemented with grains for extra nutrients. During extreme cold, a horse’s
body will burn additional calories to maintain body temperature. This means they’ll require additional food to meet their energy needs. When it comes to hay, you should aim to feed your horse at least 2% of their body weight in hay or forage per day. For example, a 1,000-pound horse should be fed at least 20 pounds of hay per day to maintain optimal health. This amount should be increased by 10-20% during extreme cold weather to ensure your horse is getting enough energy to stay warm. Keep in mind that every horse is different, so be sure to consult with your veterinarian or equine nutritionist to determine the appropriate amount of hay for your horse. And yes, consider buying a scale to weigh your hay. Every cut of hay and bale is different so going off the number of flakes of hay can be deceiving. The quality of your hay can have a big impact on how much your horse needs to eat to maintain their weight during the winter. Hay that’s lower in quality or nutrient content will require your horse to eat more to meet their energy needs. On the other hand, good-quality hay will provide your horse with the necessary nutrients and energy they need to stay healthy. It’s important to invest in high-quality hay and store it properly to
January 2024
ensure it stays fresh throughout the winter months. When horses eat hay, their digestive system generates heat, which helps keep them warm. Offering hay frequently throughout the day can help keep your horses warm and prevent them from losing weight during extreme cold weather. It’s also a good idea to offer hay in hay nets or feeders to prevent waste and keep your horse’s digestive system healthy. One thing to keep in mind when feeding your horse during extreme winter weather is to watch their weight closely. While it’s essential to give your horse enough hay to stay warm, you don’t want to overfeed them and cause unnecessary weight gain. Weigh your horse’s feed and hay regularly and adjust as needed to maintain their ideal weight. As horse owners or barn managers, it’s important to understand your horse’s nutritional needs and adjust their feed accordingly. Be sure to consult with your veterinarian or equine nutritionist if you have any questions or concerns about how much hay to feed your horses during the winter months. By providing your horse with high-quality hay and monitoring their weight, you can help ensure they stay healthy and happy all winter long.
January 2024
Mid-South Horse Review | 19
Winter Horse Care
How to Manage a Horse Who Can No Longer Eat Hay By Lauren Abbott Hay is a staple for horses during the winter, some horses may have medical conditions that prevent them from consuming hay effectively. If your horse cannot eat hay due to issues like dental problems, respiratory issues, or esophageal disorders you need to explore alternative feeding options to ensure that your horse gets the nutrition it needs. There are various ways to manage a horse that cannot eat hay during the winter. Feed your horse hay alternatives: There are several other feeding options available for horses that cannot eat hay, like soaked hay cubes, beet pulp, and hay pellets. Soaked hay cubes are an excellent alternative to hay as they can be soaked in water to make them more manageable for horses with dental problems. Beet pulp is highly digestible and can be mixed with other feeds to create a balanced diet for your horse. Hay pellets, much like hay cubes, can be soaked in water. If your horse needs a thinner and more liquid consistency due to esophageal disorders then this is a great option, which can help keep your horse hydrated during the winter as well. Provide high-quality pasture: If your horse can’t eat hay, an alternative is to provide high-quality pasture. This can be
difficult during the winter, but by seeding cool season grasses you can prolong grazing time for your horse. This will help keep your horses grazing and ingesting forage longer throughout the winter season than typical warm season grass pastures. Some cool season grasses are not ideal for horses with PPID or Metabolic Syndromes so make sure you discuss cool season grasses with your veterinarian, equine nutritionist, and or your extension agency to ensure you are not seeding a grass that can potentially disrupt your horse’s overall health. Supplement with vitamins and minerals:
Gilliland Farms Top Quality Horse Hay All our hay is STORED IN OUR BARN. We have added 52,000 sq. ft. of barn space to preserve the quality of our hay for our great, loyal customers.
• Guaranteed Nutrition • No Herbicides • Moisture Monitored
• Alfalfa Bale: $18 • Bermuda Squares: $12 • Bermuda Rolls: $175 | 5x6 |1200 lbs. • Mixed Grass Rolls: $80 | Clover, Rye and Pasture Grasses | 800 lbs • Rye Grass Rolls: $65 | 800 lbs • 2 String 50-60 lb Square Bales • Cow Hay Roll: $50 • Pine & Hardwood Shavings available
Mike Gilliland: (901) 634-3912 mgilliland@gillilandfarms.com 4300 Watkins | Memphis, TN 38127
If your horse cannot eat hay during the winter, it may not be getting all the vitamins and minerals it needs. Supplements like vitamins A, D, and E, and minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium, can help your horse stay healthy and avoid any deficiencies. Be sure to talk to your veterinarian about the best supplements for your horse, as they can recommend the right balance and dosage. Feed smaller meals more frequently: If your horse has trouble eating hay, it may also have difficulty eating large meals. Feeding smaller, more frequent meals can
help your horse get the nutrients it needs without putting undue stress on its digestive system. Feeding small meals frequently can also help mimic the natural grazing patterns of horses, which can help reduce stress and anxiety. Also, consider switching your horse to a senior feed which is a complete feed. Senior complete feeds have the necessary fiber and forage content amounts horses need to keep their hindguts happy. Keep your horse warm and hydrated: During the winter, it’s essential to keep your horse warm and hydrated. Horses that can’t eat hay during the winter may be at a higher risk of losing weight and staying warm. Provide fresh, clean water to your horse regularly, and be sure to keep it from freezing. Try adding water to your horse’s feed. This will help ensure your horse is getting adequate water, and it will also help prevent choking episodes. Additionally, it’s crucial to keep your horse warm with adequate shelter and blankets depending on the temperature and severity of the winter conditions. If your horse cannot eat hay due to health reasons remember there are a variety of ways to manage your horse throughout the winter months. Horses are resilient, and by creating a structured routine to help these types of special- need horses thrive will help keep them from losing weight, keep their hind-guts healthy, and keep them happy throughout the winter.
20 | Mid-South Horse Review
January 2024
Marketplace Classifieds BOARDING
Lakeland 14 stall barn for rent. Wash rack, feed/tack room and hay storage. $1,500/month for the entire barn or $125/month per stall (3 stall minimum). Non public use only. Nice barn apartment for rent: $700 a month. 901 -338- 9686. Lakeland 3 acre pasture with 3 stall barn for rent. 2 horses maximum. $250/month. 901 -338- 9686
Boarding at beautiful WHITE OAK FARM: Located on 40 acres in northeast Shelby County at 10023 Rosemark Rd. Full Board $400/month. Board includes stall cleaning/shavings and morning/evening feedings. Numerous amenities include large stalls with windows, stall fans, heated waterers, 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 901-8333075.
Nice friendly barn located in Cordova/ Memphis, TN. Located 15 minutes from Germantown, Bartlett, East Memphis and Shelby Farms. Owners are on site. Retired or Aged horse’s welcome! High dry barn, trails, and small arena. Call Rob (901) 359-3341
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
Part time Associate Barn Manager wanted:
Applicants should be horse knowledgeable and RELIABLE! Office Duties include coordinating schedules with instructors and students, and assisting with barn events, camps, unmounted lessons, meetings and horsemanship sessions. Manual Labor Duties include: bringing horses in and out, feeding, stall cleaning, emptying, cleaning and refilling water buckets and wheelbarrows, moving hay bales and feed bags. Must be able to lift up to 50lbs. Be prepared to work in all kinds of weather conditions. Competitive pay, flexible shifts, and fun, supportive and welcoming barn culture and family. Email resume with references to happymemphishorses@gmail.com
Hillside Stables, Desoto Co – Bill and PK Theobald have been professionally caring for horses for 23+ years. Spend time with your horse while, full board covers all the daily chores. Horses fed 2x daily, stalls cleaned daily, same sex turn out. $450 per month. Happy, healthy horses – friendly, knowledgeable people. Covered arena, round pen, lighted outdoor riding area and wooded trails! Check us out on Facebook, website www.HillsideStables.wordpress.com or call 901/857-7500.
Premier Horse Boarding in Fayette County: Full/pasture board. Retired horses are welcome. Private pastures, grained 2x daily w/senior feed & Bermuda hay. All weather outdoor arena w/ lights. 50+acres of riding, lots of additional amenities. Look us up on FB. Blues City Warmbloods Dana 901-331-3500
Beautiful Full Service Boarding Barn Located in Eads, TN on a quiet and beautiful drive. Our beautiful farm welcomes all disciplines. Board includes horses being fed 2x per day, large stalls cleaned once daily, stall fans, turnout pastures, lighted outdoor arena with excellent footing, a spacious crosstie area for up to 6 horses with hot/cold wash racks. Beautiful tack room with custom tack built-ins. Barn manager has over 40 years of experience caring for horses. We specialize in senior care, hard keepers, and rehab. Horse health and care are top priorities. Friendly and supportive barn culture. Training available in English and Western disciplines with a focus on Horsemanship. Schedule a tour by texting 901279-4634 HORSE TRAINING Training your horse, the correct & gentle way. Desensitizing & teaching respect on the ground; trust without fear. We mostly use the Buck Brannaman training methods. Exc. References. Grained 2 x day w/ Bermuda hay & private pastures. $800 Mo. Michael Garner 901-857-8060 Blues City Warmbloods on FB
January 2024
Mid-South Horse Review | 21
Marketplace Business Cards p Hay Far p a Bermuda Hay m
T
Bermuda Hay Round & Square Bales winter storage available
Mic hael Anderson
901-277-4198
1 7 2 9 0 H w y. 7 6 • S o m e r v i l l e , T N
Leigh Ann Carkeet Specializing in
Equestrian Properties ©MSHR
901-550-8892
leighanncarkeet@gmail.com
New Hope Saddles & Tack 750 New Hope Road Ripley, TN 38063 Cell: 731-697-3356
Email: rlangly@bellsouth.net Saddles & Tack <> Saddle Repair Custom Leather Work
RALEIGH FEED STORE
FEED * SEED * FERTILIZER * BEDDING 4284 Fayette Rd. | Memphis, TN 38128 901-386-0923 Scott Lewis, owner Heather Lewis, mgr. find us:
We carry
dog food
© MSHR
BOLIVAR, TN 38008
14840 HWY. 18 SOUTH
731-658-3931
HOURS: M-F: 7:00AM - 4PM
Charles Mercer, DVM • Chara Short, DVM Allison Parnell, DVM • Miranda Easom, DVM
Phone: 662•893•2546
Specializing in Trailer Repair & Trailer Brakes Akin Equine BC_Layout 1 6/17/2022 10:45 AM Page 1 We handle all automotive needs ©MSHR
AKIN EQUINE VETERINARY SERVICES
MARK A. AKIN , DVM Practice limited to Lameness and Performance Issues associated with the Equine Athlete
©MSHR
By appointment only: 601-813-1128 cell 901-854-6773 (85-HORSE) MAkindvm86@gmail.com
6740 CENTER HILL RD • OLIVE BRANCH, MS 38654 Clinic Open: Monday - Friday • 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
22 | Mid-South Horse Review
December Calendar of Events
MISSISSIPPI HORSE PARK
Starkville, MS (662)325-0508; (662)3259350 https://mshorsepark.com/events Feb 9-10 Rotary Classic Rodeo Feb 23-25 Team Penning ROANE STATE EXPO CENTER
Roane State Community College, Harriman, TN http://www.roanestate. edu/?6497-Events-Calendar Jan 2, 9, 30: Open Ride TENNESSEE MILLER COLISEUM MTSU
Murfreesboro, TN www.mtsu.edu/tmc Nov. 2: National Academy Championship Finals Feb 9-10 MTSU IHSA Hunter Seat Show Feb 16-18 MTSU IHSA Western Show Feb 22-24- Southern Equine Expo UTM AG PAVILLION & EQUESTRIAN
utmsports.com/sports/equestrian/schedule/2022-23 (731)881-7221 Feb. 11 UTM Equine Team vs. SMU Equine Team LITTLE BRITCHES RODEO
www.nlbra.com, www.mslbra.org/schedule https://www.mslbra.org/entry Dec. 9: CALBRA - SEARCY, AR | White County Fairgrounds Jan. 6- LOUISIANA LBR - SULPHUR, LA Jan. 6- MSLBRA - BRANDON, MS Jan. 13 CAJUN LBR - DERIDDER, LA Jan. 13: CALBRA - SEARCY, AR Jan. 13: DEEP SOUTH LBR - RUSTON, LA Jan. 13: WESTERN KY LBR -MURRAY, KY Jan. 13: ALABAMA LBR - ANDALUSIA, AL Jan. 26: CAJUN LBR - DERIDDER, LA Jan. 27: CALBRA - SEARCY, AR PONY CLUB
https://www.ponyclub.org/Calendars/ Events.aspx https://midsouth.ponyclub.org/calendar/ https://deepsouth.ponyclub.org/ https://middletennessee.ponyclub.org/calendar/ Jan. 24- 28: USPC Convention Feb 3-4: Middle TN Mounted Games Sarah, MS. 548 Bryant Lane. Bryant Lane COWBOY CHURCH
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.
Cordova, TN: Houston Levee Cowboy Church: Sundays at 4:30 pm at Houston Levee Community Center, 1801 N. Houston Levee Rd. in Cordova, followed by Open Arena at Circle C Arena next door behind Calvary Church. Visit HoustonLeveeCowboyChurch.com or call 901-3553204 for more information. HORSE SALES/ADOPTIONS
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. Marshall Co. Livestock Exchange. 662-3179021 FIRST, THIRD, FIFTH FRIDAY: Woodbury 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: Carthage, MS. Farmers Livestock Marketing. Tack 1 pm. Horses 5 pm. Info: 601-2677884; 662-317-9021 BARREL RACING
http://www.nbha.com; https://ibra.us/ shows/US-TN-WEST Jan. 13: IBRA River Run Arena Jan. 24: IBRA Muhlenberg County Ag Center Feb 2-4: IBRA Super Show The Oak Grove Equestrian Center Feb 3: MS03 Rankin Co Multipurpose Facility Feb 10: AL06 Carol Hodgson Arena Feb 24: GA05 Southern Pines FIELD TRIALS
https://americanfield.com/calendar https://americanfield.com/calendar Jan. 1: 60th United States Quail Shooting Dog Futurity, Hoffman, NC Jan. 1: Ames Amateur Joe G. Walker Memorial Field Trial, Grand Junction, TN Jan. 1: Prairie Open All-Age, Mayflower, AR Jan. 2: Georgia Derby & Quail Championships, Waynesboro, GA Jan. 2: Pelican Open All-Age, Mayflower, AR Jan. 4: Cahaba Bend Field Trial Club, Greensboro, AL Jan. 4-6: NGSPA Open All-Age Invitational Championship, Blue Mountain, MS Jan. 4-7: West Tennessee Field Trial Club (Amateur), Dancyville, TN Jan. 5-7: Pinehurst Field Trial Club, Hoffman, NC Jan. 5- 7: South Carolina Amateur Shooting
Dog Classic, Cheraw, SC Jan. 8: Hobart Ames Memorial Classic, Grand Junction, TN Jan. 8: Georgia Shooting Dog Derby Classic & Open Shooting Dog Championship, Waynesboro, GA Jan. 11-18: ABHA National Free-For-All Championship, LaVergne, TN Jan. 11-18: Cedar Hill Field Trial Club, Blue Mountain, MS Jan. 11-`4: Flint River Field Trial Club, Hatchechubbee, AL Jan. 11: Region 16 (AFTCA) Amateur Shooting Dog Championship, Union Springs, AL Jan. 12: Northeast Arkansas Pointer & Setter Club, Mayflower, AR Jan. 13-14: Westark Field Trial Club, Booneville, AR Jan. 25: Mac McClung Amateur Shooting Dog Classic, Hatchechubbee, AL Jan. 25: Region 6 (AFTCA) Amateur Shooting Dog Championship, Huntingdon, TN Jan. 26: National Derby Championship, Greensboro, AL Jan. 29: Cajun Classic Open All-Age, Hickory Valley, TN QUARTER HORSE SHOWS
www.mqha.org, www.wtqha.org, www. midsouth quarter horse.com, facebook Mid-South Breeders Feb 6-7: Equestrians with Disabilities 2 day Show Jackson, MS Feb 12-18: Dixie National Quarter Horse Show Jackson, MS RACING
www.nationalsteeplechase.com, https:// www.oaklawn.com/racing/calendar/ , https://www.keeneland.com/ Jan. 1: The Smarty Jones Stakes Race, Oaklawn Racing Jan. 6: The Pippin Stakes, Oaklawn Racing Jan. 8-11: Keeneland’s Horses of all age sale Jan. 13: The Mockingbird Stakes, Oaklawn Racing Jan. 20: The Fifth Season Stakes Race, Oaklawn Racing Jan. 27: The Southwest (G3) Stakes, Oaklawn Racing Jan. 27: The Martha Washington Stakes, Oaklawn Racing Jan. 27: The American Beauty Stakes, Oaklawn Racing The King Cotton Stakes, Oakawn, Racing SADDLE CLUB
Facebook: Ingram Mills Saddle Club. Holly Springs, MS. Marshall Co. Fairgrounds. Cook’s Lake Saddle Club. 4269 N. Watkins, Memphis, TN. Info: Wes (901) 5703595. Cookslakesaddleclub.com Woodstock Cuba Saddle Club. 7211 Woodstock Cuba Rd. Millington, TN. Info: John (901) 412-0327. mywcsc.com
January 2024
January 2024
Mid-South Horse Review | 23
24 | Mid-South Horse Review
January 2024