May 2024 Digital Edition

CONTENTS Features:

Page 4:

Publishers Note

Unbridled Comfort: The Profound Influence of Horses in Therapy By

Lauren Abbott

Page 5: News

HITS Shows Name The Horse Review as Media Partner Courtesy of Germantown Charity Horse Show

Page 6:

Healthy Horse & Rider

The Germantown Charity Horse Show Announces its 75th Anniversary Painted Horseshoe Hunt

Page 7:

Healthy Horse & Rider

All the “Buzz” Around the Barn, Fly Management By Kyla Szemplinski, MS | UT TSU Extension Shelby County

Page 8:

Healthy Horse & Rider

Therapy that is Absolutely Pulsating! PEMF Therapy By Kyla Szemplinski, MS | UT TSU Extension Shelby County

Pg. 10

From the Experts: Sponsored Content

“Back together, and it feels so good!” - Peaches and Herb By

Jonathan Fortenberry

Page 11:

People & Horses

Alan A Day’s Work - Why Mules Rule By Grace

Netter

Page 12: Greener Pastures

The Grass is Not Always Greener on the Other Side ofthe Fence: The Best “De-Fence” For Your Horse By Kyla Szemplinski, MS | UT TSU Extension Shelby County

Page 15-24: Focus

Equine-Assisted Therapy Impact Award Honorees

Page 26- 27:

Competition Zone

“The Best Weekend All Year” Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event

Page 28-29: Calendar of Events

Page 30: Marketplace: Equestrian Businesses, Products & Services

Pg. 12

The Grass is Not Always Greener on the Other Side ofthe Fence: The Best “De-Fence” For Your Horse

Pg. 11

Alan A Day’s WorkWhy Mules Rule By Grace

Netter

May 2024

Volume 34 | Number 9

Publisher & President:

Lauren Abbott labbott@thehorsereview.com

Business Office:

Andrea Winfrey: andrea@mshorsereview.com

Advertising & Marketing

Anna Harrington Anna@thehorsereview.com

Editorial:

Ashlee Pigford: Managing Editor

Gary Cox: Contributing Photographer

Grace Netter: Contributing Writer

Paul Nolte: Contributing Photographer

Rachel Ledet: Contributing Writer

Design & Production

Melissa Williams Amber Murphy

Mailing: P.O. Box 451 Nesbit, MS 38651

Subscriptions

Subscriptions are $60 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

Publisher’s Note

Unbridled Comfort: The Profound Influence of Horses in Therapy

In the tranquility of a barn lies a profound stillness that touches the soul. It is within these serene moments, often missed amidst the hustle of daily life, that the true essence of Equine-Assisted Therapy shines. During May, Mental Health Awareness Month, it seems only fitting to celebrate the unsung heroes of a different breed who play a pivotal role in this field.

Mental health, for too long relegated to whispers and shadows, is finally stepping into the light it deserves. Amidst this newfound recognition, Equine-Assisted Therapy emerges as a pioneering approach, breaking down the barriers of stigma that have traditionally surrounded therapy. These programs, their therapists, and most critically, the horses themselves, offer a fresh perspective on emotional and physical health.

Equine-assisted therapy is more than just a modern trend in psychological care; it is a practice steeped in the natural bond between humans and animals, especially horses. It operates on the belief that empathy, trust, and communication are fundamental to effective therapy, harnessing the horse’s innate ability to reflect the human emotional state.

The therapeutic benefits that horses provide extend across sensory and occupational realms, proving invaluable for individuals with autism, cerebral palsy, and other physical

or cognitive challenges. Studies, such as one by the Flora Temple Foundation, demonstrate significant improvements in autonomy among participants with autism spectrum disorder following therapeutic riding sessions.

Under the guidance of equine therapists, activities like grooming a horse or navigating an obstacle course become powerful therapeutic tools, enhancing muscle tone, balance, and coordination. However, it is the subtle, unspoken connection between horse and human that truly elevates these experiences, allowing for mutual healing and growth.

In the realm of emotional health, equine-assisted therapy leads the way, showing remarkable efficacy in treating PTSD, trauma, chronic illness, depression, and anxiety. The simple presence of a horse, with its calming influence, can instill a profound sense of peace beyond words.

Programs like Equine Services for Heroes (ESH) have observed significant psychological improvements in veterans participating in equine-assisted therapy, including reduced anxiety and depression. The non-judgmental presence of horses provides a unique support system, encouraging resilience and a sense of control in those burdened with overwhelming challenges.

The physical benefits of equine-assisted therapy are equally compelling, with horseback riding improving physical stability, strength, and coordination. Individuals with a range of motor abilities report significant progress, highlighting the effectiveness of equine therapy in enhancing physical health and overall well-being.

The National Center for Health Statistics underscores the significant gains in mobility and coordination achieved through equine-assisted activities, spotlighting the positive impact on participants’ lives.

My personal journey with horses has been transformative, providing solace during times of deep grief and serving as a source of emotional release. The companionship of horses, whether in silent presence or through a canter across a field, has offered comfort when words were not enough.

Seeing loved ones, including those with physical disabilities, find renewed strength and hope through the gentle nature of horses has deepened my appreciation for equine-assisted therapy. Their stories of recovery and empowerment are not mere anecdotes but are testimonies to the profound impact of this therapy.

The honorees in our Equine-Assisted Therapy Impact Award section are true advocates for individuals facing physical and mental challenges, offering daily miracles through their work with horses. Their accounts of witnessing dramatic changes in their patients underscore the significant, positive transformations facilitated by equine companionship. I invite you to join us in recognizing these extraordinary programs and the remarkable healing journeys they enable through the support of our equine friends.

Lauren Abbott | Publisher & President

Abbott’s mother, Mary ann Pigford, with Abbott’s Thoroughbred, Kevin.

HITS Shows names The Horse Review as an Official Media Partner

The Horse Review has been named an official media partner of HITS Shows. HITS LLC is the leading producing hunter/jumper horse shows, as well as dressage competitions, in the United States.

Based in upstate New York in the village of Saugerties, HITS produced its first horse show circuit in Gainesville, Florida in 1982. Since then, HITS has grown into a nationwide company with world-class events in Florida, New York, Illinois, Vermont, Virginia and California.

“We are excited to partner with The Horse Review and are looking forward to sharing the fun of showing at HITS with the enthusiastic Mid-South readers,” said HITS Senior Vice President of Marketing Ashley Baker. “Across all of our venues, we aim to provide every exhibitor with an enjoyable experience from ponies to grand prix and everywhere in between, so it only makes sense to collaborate with a publication that emphasizes the joy of the equestrian lifestyle.”

As an official media partner, The Horse Review, will have special coverage of HITS Chicago at Lamplight, HITS Culpeper Series in Virginia, and HITS Ocala Winter Series. This will give The Horse Review exclusive access to HITS’ leading competitors, news, announcements, and special features on the

series and exhibitors. HITS will also distribute The Horse Review to HITS exhibitors and will brand The Horse Review as a media partner on HITS website, press releases and at HITS events. This will position The Horse Review as a leading equine publication reaching a national audience.

Lauren Abbott, Publisher of The Horse Review said, “This partnership is exciting on many levels. For the first time since 1992, The Horse Review will be nationally recognized and distributed by the leading hunter/ jumper and dressage competitions in the US. It will give my team the opportunity to

publish exclusive content about leading US competitors, and share their stories of success. Partnering with HITS was a strategy I felt would help lead The Horse Review into its new era as a leading Equine Magazine dedicated to sharing the joy of horses across the US. We are excited to write stories about nationally ranked equestrians, as well as supporting and sharing stories of riders of all levels and horse ownership.”

HITS Chicago returns to Lamplight Equestrian Center in 2024 with 14 weeks of USEF-Rated Series running May through September. Extensive class offerings and

competitive prize money cements HITS commitment to the Midwest show jumping tour at this historic venue.

HITS Culpeper Series is located at Commonwealth Park. The venue is situated on 92 acres in beautiful Central Virginia, where old-school charm meets the modern horse show experience. HITS Culpeper hosts 6 USEF-Rated hunter/jumper competitions annually, and in 2024, is proud to offer Virginia Horse Show Association affiliated shows, confirming its reputation as a home for riders and horses of all levels.

HITS Ocala Winter Series has been taking place since 1982. HITS calls Central Florida its Winter Home. In 1985, HITS moved to the ‘Horse Capital of the World’ – Ocala, and later purchased Post Time Farm in 2002, cultivating one of the world’s most horse-friendly show grounds. For four decades and counting, the HITS Ocala Winter Circuit has provided one of the largest show circuits in the country. Each year HITS Ocala hosts 12-weeks of USEF-Rated Hunter/ Jumper competition from December through March.

To read exclusive equine news and articles visit thehorsereview.com and to learn more about the HITS Shows Series visit hitsshows.com.

The Germantown Charity Horse Show Announces its 75th Anniversary Painted Horseshoe Hunt

The 75th Germantown Charity Horse Show (GCHS) is June 4-8. Leading up to the historic week the GCHS Painted Horseshoe Hunt, which has become a tradition enjoyed by all ages, will kick-off Wednesday, May 1. The hunt was the idea of Barbara Bouton, a long-time member of GCHS. Bouton, who holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree, has used her artistic talent and creative ideas to support the “Charity” in multiple ways over the years. In celebration of the 70th Germantown Charity Horse Show, she wanted to generate interest and excitement about the show throughout the entire community and came up with the idea of the GCHS Painted Horseshoe Hunt. The first hunt was very successful with friends and families hunting together. Barbara wanted to be sure there was an educational element to the hunt as well. Through social media posts with cleverly crafted clues, each included information about the community, highlights of new places in the area, and nuggets of GCHS history. Barbara succeeded in making this event fun and illuminating for the entire community. Producing the hunt requires extensive planning. Barbara works closely with co-chairs, Pam and Steve Solaas, on activities like scouting locations for the best hiding spots and developing clues. When asked about this year’s hunt, Barbara shared, “We have 75 beautiful horseshoes decorated by GCHS and community volunteers, including some of our young horseshoe hunters from last year! We invite

Need the flies to buzz off? Put the Cashel fly mask on. Designed for ultimate comfort and protection from both flies and the harsh sun, the Cashel fly collection sets the standard. cashelcompany.com

everyone in the community to participate in the fun, to post photos of themselves with their found horseshoes to inspire other hunters, and most importantly, to join us for the 75th GCHS June 4-8.”

GCHS is one of the largest all-breed shows in the country and this year’s collection of horseshoes represents the different sizes and breeds of horses that will compete in the GCHS from Welsh Ponies to Gypsy Vanners, Paso Finos to Friesians, and more. The new horseshoes were generously donated by GCHS members, Susie Logan and her husband John Logan of La Grange Forge, an expert farrier serving the surrounding Germatown, Tenn. area.

A new award was introduced last year –“Good Sportsmanship Hunter.” It was inspired by Jack Eaton, a then first grader at Farmington Elementary School in Germantown who truly enjoyed the adventure of the hunt. After discovering a couple of shoes, Jack decided to leave the remaining shoes he found in place so that others could enjoy finding them too. The winner of this year’s Good Sportsmanship Hunter award will receive two tickets to the GCHS and a GCHS T-shirt. If you want to compete, you should not claim more than two shoes. Feel free

to take photos of the additional shoes you find, but do not post them until after someone else finds them and makes their claim online.

Enjoy being part of the community-wide GCHS Horseshoe Hunt. Three uniquely decorated shoes will be hidden each day between May 1 - May 25, and the hunt will conclude when all 75 horseshoes have been found. Look for clues about where to search for horseshoes on The Germantown Horse Show Group Facebook page and/or on Instagram (@germantowncharity), and be sure to post an image of yourself and your found horseshoe. Enjoy additional tidbits of information that will be posted on X (formerly known as Twitter). In addition to enjoying the thrill of the hunt, anyone finding a horseshoe will receive two free tickets to the GCHS. The lucky hunter who finds the Grand Prize Horseshoe decorated by Laura Lawson, in honor of GCHS’s 75th anniversary, will receive a T-shirt from the GCHS Charity General Store along with a special prize.

Mark your calendars for June 4-8 to join the 75th historic Germantown Charity Horse Show at 7745 Poplar Pike. For more information, go to GCHS.org.

Jack Eaton, first recipient of the Good Sportsmanship Hunter award featured with one of his found horseshoes. Image by Susan Todd Eaton.

Horse & Rider Health

Section Sponsored By:

All the “Buzz” Around the Barn, Fly Management

• Stable Fly (Stomoxys calcitrans)

• Horn Fly (Haematobia irritans)

• Biting Midge (Culicoides)

• Face Fly (Musca autumnalis)

• House Fly (Musca domestica)

can do to reduce fly irritates.

Good Sanitation

Keeping your facilities dry and clean is the most important fly and pest management step. The basic aim for all sanitation is to reduce or eliminate fly larval development sites. Fly larvae can develop in multiple sites such as where manure, plant debris and water can build up which can form ideal breeding grounds for pests.

Manure and soiled bedding in pasture shelters, stalls, feeding and water areas should be removed regularly and manure piles should be managed appropriately. Efficient draining methods should also be applied to all structures and high traffic areas to reduce excessive moisture.

Human food and trash should also be monitored. All human food (especially perishable) should be kept in the barn’s respective break room or kitchen and trash should be taken out regularly and covered with a lid as often as possible.

Turnout and Pasture Management

to a brush or mitt. The only disadvantages to spray application is that is can be labor intensive depending on how many horses you have and the effect is only short-term. Please remember to read the label on all fly spray bottles to ensure appropriate application and not to apply to other animals the spray is not suited for.

Fly ointments can also be applied, especially around horse’s eyes, ears, underneath their chins and around surface wounds. The disadvantage is that application needs to be done daily and the price of ointment can add up.

The warmer weather has arrived. Unfortunately, with the warmer weather comes every equine owner’s least favorite visitor: flies. There are a variety of flies that agitate horses, livestock species and humans. If not managed correctly, flies can cause potential health issues, some serious, to all animals (including humans). Flies are one of the primary vectors for life-threatening diseases. While there is no method to get rids of flies 100% at your barn, there are ways to reduce the “buzz” to your horses, other animals and people.

Types of Flies

Flies come in a range of species. The most common found in horse barns and pastures include:

• Black fly (Simuliidae)

• Cattle Grub (Hypoderma bovis or H. lineatum)

• Common Bot Fly (Gastrophilus intestinalis)

• Horse Fly and Deer Fly (Tabanidae)

These flies are usually most active from April to October. Some of these flies (horse fly, deer fly, black fly, biting midge, stable fly, horn fly, house fly) feed on blood which can transmit life-threatening diseases such as Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA) or Pigeon Fever. Other flies (cattle grub, common bot fly) can spread internal parasites while some (face fly) just feed on animal secretions, but cause serious annoyance.

Fly Management Steps

To get rid of flies on their own, horses will shake, swish their tails, rub their faces on fence lines, stomp their feet, turn their heads to “bite” themselves or roll in dirt/mud. As horse owners know, flies can harm horses by transmitting viruses and diseases, cause welts or skin irritations at bite sites, cause hoof damage from excessive stomping and just overall be a source of discomfort. Fortunately, there are multiple steps horse owners

Run-in shelters should be kept away from wooded areas as horse and deer flies are most active, especially if there is a water source. Having a larger pasture space will also allow horses to naturally move away from biting flies since some flies are only active in certain areas of pasture. Turning horses out at night can also reduce biting since horse and deer flies are typically more active during daylight.

Chemical Control

Various chemical control techniques are available to horse owners. This includes fly sprays, fly repellent ointment and fly traps. Most horse owners use a combination to reduce fly to a minimum as possible.

Fly sprays should be applied to horses on an everyday basis, especially to horses on 24/7 turnout. Sprays can kill adult flies at the time of application and it is important to have full body coverage. Better coverage can be achieved by applying spray

Fly traps include sticky paper, box traps, hanging traps or canopies. These traps include insecticides or soapy water that drown flies. It is important that the placement of these traps is taken into consideration and proper placement in pasture or barns might take some trial and error. Horses and other livestock should not be able to interfere with traps but traps should still be placed where flies are a nuisance. Traps out in pastures should be placed in sunny areas and away from buildings or other obstructions that could interfere with fly vision. Traps require regular maintenance and should be changed out/replaced every week so newer captured flies do not use previously caught flies to escape.

Fly Protection Products

Fly sheets, boots and masks are great barriers, especially in sensitive areas. Please be sure your horse’s sheet, boots and masks fit appropriately as too loose-fitting barriers can easily come off and too tight will be uncomfortable. Try and purchase barriers in bright colors so in the event your horse does loose their barrier, you can easily spot it in the pasture.

For further questions about fly management contact your county’s Extension office. UT-TSU Shelby County Extension can be reached at 901-752-1207 during normal business hours Monday through Friday 8am-4:30pm CST.

Kyla Szemplinski, MS, UT TSU Shelby County Extension

Horse & Rider Health

Therapy that is Absolutely Pulsating! PEMF Therapy

By Lauren Abbott and Kyla Szemplinski, UT TSU Shelby County Extension

Pulsed electro-magnetic frequency, or what is known as PEMF is a form of therapy that helps keep horses at their peak performance, and helps lameness, injuries, laminitis and wounds heal more efficiently.

Certified PEMF therapy machine operators utilize knowledge of the PEMF machine, anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology to administer pulsed electromagnetic frequency waves at optimal levels throughout the body and in targeted areas.

The PEMF machine sends these electrical pulses through copper coils to produce electromagnetic waves. The electromagnetic waves travel through the area and penetrate the body. The depth of penetration and level of intensity is inversely dependent upon the set frequency. For example, to achieve higher intensity the operator lowers the frequency on the machine and vice versa for a lower intensity.

As the pulse travels through the body, 2 ATP’s are added during the Krebs cycle of cellular regeneration increasing efficiency of the body’s metabolism. What does that mean? According to the National Library of

Medicine, “ATP is commonly referred to as the ‘energy currency’ of the cell, as it provides readily releasable energy in the bond between the second and third phosphate groups. In addition to providing energy, the breakdown of ATP through hydrolysis serves a broad range of cell functions, including signaling and DNA/RNA synthesis. ATP synthesis utilizes energy obtained from multiple catabolic mechanisms, including cellular respiration, beta-oxidation, and ketosis.”

Krebs cycles are chain reactions occurring in the mitochondria (membrane-bound cell organelles), through which almost all living cells produce energy in aerobic respiration. It uses oxygen and gives out water and carbon dioxide as products.

“There are many theoretical hypotheses underlying PEMF’s healing ability, one of them is due to increased blood circulation and microcirculation by significant arteriolar vasodilatation, the widening of blood vessels as a result of relaxation of the blood vessel’s muscular wall. It has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, decrease edema and swelling, improve cell proliferation and differentiation potentials, and finally modulation of pain,” according to the National Library of Medicine.

Overall PEMF therapy can cause a small

drop in blood pressure causing vasodilation. This helps increase the flow of the lymphatic system, and helps promote stem cell repair of affected areas.

The most common ailment PEMF therapy can be useful for is inflammation. Whether it be arthritis, laminitis, or lactic acid of sore muscles—PEMF therapy can be very useful for pain and healing management. As PEMF helps reduce swelling it in turn promotes faster healing in a variety of injuries including drainage of abscesses.

Jami Porter Hanan with Cactus J PEMF Therapy, LLC, serves the West Tennessee area. She says, “PEMF therapy has been around for two decades, but it just has not made its way to the south as much as other regions. I think it is not as well-known because of the costs of the machine and equipment in addition to the medial knowledge it takes to perform PEMF therapy safely and effectively.”

Jami continues, “For performance horses, horses in training, or older/chronic arthritic horses, I usually recommend every 2-4 weeks between therapy sessions if possible. The more consistent the PEMF therapy sessions are, the better the results. Clients can always tell when a session is missed.”

For horses with acute injuries such as lameness, laminitis, soft tissue injury, or

hoof abscesses, Jami recommends reoccurring follow up therapy sessions ideally 1-2 times a week for a couple weeks. Then the sessions can gradually be spaced out, depending on the horse’s healing progress. Jami also recommends using complementary therapies along with PEMF to enhance horses’ overall physical condition and or healing process such as equine massage, chiropractor, acupuncture, laser therapy, shockwave therapy, and physical therapy. Whether a performance horse is showing signs of muscle soreness, stiffness or just feels a bit dull, PEMF can assist with helping the horse feel its best. Whereas horses who are rehabbing from injuries can greatly benefit from the pulsed electro-magnetic frequencies to help reduce inflammation and promote blood circulation to targeted areas or injuries. The cost per session can range by the treatment and total treatment time; however, sessions can range from $50 per 30 minute session up to $135 per session for longer, depending on different therapists’ rates and travel. PEMF therapists may also offer bulk session packages to ensure clients are able to have consistent treatments to help keep their horses at their peak performance and overall health.

CASE STUDIES

PEMF CASE STUDIES:

Courtesy of Jami Porter Hanan with Cactus J PEMF Therapy, LLC

In the image to the left this horse foundered during the summer of 2022. PEMF therapy began December of 2022 and is currently on a biweekly schedule. PEMF therapy is able to help alleviate laminitis to promote the Coffin bone to adjust closer to correct angles.

The image to the left displays a Cannon Bone injury. This image displays healing. The horse was able to return to full work after PEMF therapy and rehab.

The image to the left shows how PEMF helped with soft tissue healing in a high motion area. This laceration wound stayed pink and unhealed for six months before consistent PEMF session that helped the tissue regenerate.

The image to the left displays PEMF’s effects on human injuries: Hematoma without fracture. PEMF therapy began immediately daily. Each picture was 2 days a part. PEMF therapy is able to help the body absorb bruising and help decrease swelling.

From the Experts

Sponsored Content

“Back together, and it

feels so good!” - Peaches and Herb

By Jonathan Fortenberry

I’m back with another From The Experts article. Many thanks to all of you that have reached out and given me feedback, so I hope this one is educational for you as well.

I was struck today by a comment by a peer“Any time the main character of the story doesn’t have to face tragedy to benefit from knowing you is a great thing”. Here’s why that caught my attention. Most of the time my clients will have one of three conversations. There’s the prospecting conversation where we talk about hopes, dreams, goals, and how to insure what they’ve already built. There’s the conversation in the middle where we add tack, tractors, or

“Any time the main character of the story doesn’t have to face tragedy to benefit from knowing you is a great thing”

a clinic date. Then there’s the claim conversation where they are having a very, very bad day and need me to deliver on the promise the insurance company made. All of the farm policies I write are for tragic situations. But what about the work I do that gives you, the main character, a win without requiring a trying event or tough day?

I answer a lot of questions, and hopefully this will help you think about questions in your businesses or households, whether it be family, coworkers, or clients. Did you know I can help you know that you won’t run out of money? I can help you know exactly what amount of money you can pay a nurse or nursing

home if you need their help. I can help you organize your income streams in some fairly tax-advantaged ways. I can help you know exactly, to the penny, what your savings accounts will earn. All of those things are outside of my work as an equine insurance guy. Those are all inside my other nerd-hobby, which is helping people manage their dollars.

I do want to encourage you to reach out to me at 901-614-1057 and ask me financial questions. Whether it be something I can help you with or one my partners can help you with, I’m here to be your sounding board.

Beyond a commercial for my services, I hope you take the same approach that struck a chord in me today. What are some things that you can do for your clients, coworkers, and family members that

benefit them without requiring them to have a bad day first? You’re an expert at something. So what is it?

Are you known as someone who knows how to connect people that need each other? Are you the one in the friend-group with a positive outlook? Do you have the talent to forecast what a client might need to finish a project? These are all valuable skills that you can use to pour into someone’s life today, whether they have an issue to work through today or not. When, not if, they have a tough day, you’ll be top of mind.

Take positivity and hard work with you today, and change the world for the better. Until next time, it’s been fun for me, and I hope the same for you.

People & Horses

Alan A Day’s Work - Why Mules Rule

By Grace Netter

If you see a blur of white spots and long ears flying over a jump, that’s Alan. A 2008 john mule born out of a leopard Appaloosa mare, by a donkey jack. “Alan A Day’s Work” has taken the equine world by storm. You name the jumping discipline, he’s done it, but not without having to fight for his right to compete. Through hard work and dedication to mule advocacy, Alan has gone to show that mules are just as capable as horses over fences.

Whitney Barnard, based in Lexington, KY, had been thinking about taking on a new project when she attended a fundraising trail obstacle event with her horse at the time. At this event, she met a woman who knew of a group of mules that were being re-homed. Having broken ponies on the side in the past, she was curious to see how different it’d be to break a mule, so she went to meet them. Amongst the group, she noticed Alan. Standing at 13.3 hands and sporting a stunning, bay blanket Appaloosa coat, this then 4-year-old stuck out to her. Barely halter-broken and unable to be moved in-hand, Whitney chose him based on his conformation alone. After getting him home, Whitney put Alan in the field as she pondered what approach to take next.

Training a mule was a first for Whitney, having had no experience with mules before. This made every stage a learning process for both of them, from breaking him to being caught, to being led, and eventually to being ridden. Whitney claims that Alan wasn’t easy to break, nor was he hard; he was just different. Alan made Whitney slow down, as she came to realize that he remembered more than horses did, internalizing the bad things with the good things. The typical mule stubbornness seemed to stem from self-preservation. If anything didn’t

go as planned, Alan would be more wary of doing it again. Because of this, any progress made had to be Alan’s idea; however, once he realized it was a partnership between the two of them, he was more willing to do what was asked. The trajectory for improvement moved a lot slower than normal, but it made each step forward so much more rewarding.

One day, as Whitney was teaching lessons while sitting on Alan, she got the idea to try something. Asking for the canter, she pointed him at a jump, and he cantered right over it with square knees. It was at that moment that she knew that she had to keep him as a personal mount, and see if she could nurture this talent. As they grew confident as a jumping pair, she wanted to bring him to a show, more to see where her training with Alan stood off-property, rather than focusing on winning. They had been able to compete locally in Alabama, but when Whitney

moved to Kentucky, the local Hunter Jumper shows wouldn’t let Alan compete, because he was a mule. The local Eventing community; however, had no such restriction. After gaining some experience in all three Eventing phases, the USHJA finally ruled to allow mules in Jumper classes in 2022, so she made the switch to the discipline that they are currently showing in. Having competed successfully in so many different disciplines, there was still one discipline left on Alan’s list to try: Hunters.

With the rule allowing mules in the Jumpers finally passed, Whitney began campaigning a secondary rule to allow mules to compete in Hunter competitions. In September of 2023, USHJA passed this new Hunter ruling, and is now waiting for USEF to vote on the matter in June of 2024. If passed, mules will be able to compete in recognized Hunter shows starting in 2025. When met

with opposition on allowing mules to compete, Whitney states that, “mules are already at the Hunter/ Jumper shows for the Jumper classes, so it’d be no different of an environment, entering into the Hunter classes.” She wants people to know that, with the rule change to allow mules, there is no expectation to be judged differently. Mules are just as capable of doing the same things as horses, and they will be judged as such. “Allowing mules in the Jumpers and Hunters opens the door for more participation and inclusion, giving opportunity to those who might not have had it before,” Whitney believes. She hopes that Alan can show just how versatile a mule can be in the jumping disciplines.

After Alan began gaining a following for his jumping feats, Whitney received an email that every equine owner dreams about. The Breyer Horses model company had heard about Alan, and was asking if she was available for a meeting. After they spoke, Whitney was told that Alan had been chosen to be made into a Limited Edition BreyerFest 2024 portrait model, representing the year’s theme of “Against All Odds.” Not only that, but they were also given the opportunity to attend BreyerFest 2024, as an ambassador.

As for what’s in store for Alan after his adventure at Breyerfest, and hopeful career in the Hunter ring, Whitney said that she is most excited to teach lessons on him. Their journey together has been in hopes to erase the stigma surrounding mules, and there’s no better way than to share the love firsthand than with the next generation of riders.

If you are interested in following Alan’s journey, you can follow Alan on Instagram, @muleatahorseshow. He will also be attending BreyerFest 2024, July 12th-14th, at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, KY, where his Limited Edition Breyer model will be available for purchase.

Greener Pastures

The Grass is Not Always Greener on the Other Side of the Fence: The Best “De-Fence” For Your Horse

Stunning, rolling green hills with lush horse pasture, mature trees and picturesque fencing is every horse owner’s dream. Well-maintained fences not only adds aesthetic looks but adds value to your equine property. However, one of the most crucial benefits is keeping your horses safely contained. Your fence line not only keeps your horses contained, but also keeps unnecessary people and animals out.

Fencing Concerns

Brainstorming and researching what you want for your property and fence line will save your time and money. There are concerns owners need to be aware of when selecting fencing materials. The most important aspects when selecting materials include:

• Number of horses being managed and acreage

• Intended use of the area

• Environmental hazards

• Neighbors

• Safety

• Cost

• Maintenance

• Appearance

• Durability Owners should not just think short term but long-term property goals with fencing. Are you looking to expand your existing property, upgrade the land and/or facilities now or in the future, lease or resell the

property, does the landscape have multiple hazards (lots of mature trees, water hazards,) that could endanger your fence line. Make sure you have your property line mapped out before you establish any fence line to avoid costly mistakes with neighbors. Remove any trees or brush (obtain any permits if necessary) as well.

General Fence Requirement

The minimum height for fence should be at least five feet but with taller horses and stallions, the fence height should be at least 6 feet tall. The bottom fence post should be at least 6-8 inches off the ground since horses are more likely to graze along the fence line. The fence material should be visible, strong but forgiving, and fence material on the inside of posts. Space posts about 10-12 feet apart unless you are using high-tensile wire, then space posts about 25 feet apart. The space between paddocks should be about 8 feet minimum to discourage horses from fighting but also large enough to fit humans and horses. Consider the width of alleyways and lanes so large farm equipment, multiple humans and horses can move through and lead up to the main campus of your farm. Standard widths should be a minimum 25 feet wide.

Fence Gate Requirements

Gates should be placed in corners closest to the direction of travel and at the same height as your fence. The gate should be large enough to get equipment (16 feet min) and several horses through at once.

Kyla Szemplinski, MS, UT TSU Shelby County Extension

Horse and human gates, if installed, should be at least 4 feet in wide. If gates open into lanes, the gate should be the same length as the width of the lane and should be able to swing both ways. Avoid gaps between gates and supporting posts to prevent horses from getting caught in the gap. Make sure to purchase gates that are sturdy since horses tend to congregate around gate areas and have multiple points of entries/exits if needed. Also, avoid placing gates in low areas where water might pool.

Types of Fencing Materials

Remember, there is no “perfect” fence material as they all have their pros and cons that all owners must weigh. No matter what, DO NOT select a barbed wire fence to house horses as it is the most hazardous.

Wood Fence

Advantages: appearance, easily visible, gives a little

Disadvantages: Expensive to install, requires the most maintenance, cribbing element

PVC or Vinyl Fence (Post and rail)

Advantages: durable, visibility, no painting or staining, will not rot, warp or splinter

Disadvantages: can shatter during cold weather when hit, not forgiving, expensive, labor intensive.

**Usually can include an electrified wire to keep horses from running the fence.**

Smooth High Tensile Wire (including “no climb” and V mesh)

Advantages: Inexpensive, safer in larger pastures and easy to install, generally lower maintenance cost than wood.

Disadvantages: not visible, can flex, can

be considered “temporary”, high chance for laceration injuries in some types of wire, MUST keep electrified.

Metal Pipe

Advantages: durable, visible, low maintenance cost

Disadvantages: not forgiving, expensive to install and upkeep

Electric

Advantages: not as expensive, use more than 1.5” wide tape for best visibility.

Disadvantages: should not be used alone for fencing (especially perimeter), lacks strength, always check if electricity is on.

**Use tea post toppers to soften the edges.**

For any further questions about fence management contact your county’s Extension office. UT-TSU Shelby County Extension can be reached at 901-752-1207 during normal business hours Monday through Friday 8am-4:30pm CST.

Angel Heart Farm

serving children and their families facing chronic and life threatening illnesses using Equine- Assisted Therapy in conjunction with their medical treatment - at no cost.

EquineAssisted Therapy Program

Founder, Director:

Tracy Kujawa

Serving: Greater Nashville, Tennessee Area

Founded: 2001

Therapies:

Equine-Assisted Thereapies, Art and Music Therapies

In 2001 Tracy Kujawa founded Angel Heart Farm just outside of Nashville, Tennessee. Angel Heart Farm serves children beating cancer. They

work directly with pediatric oncologists, nurses and Social and ChildLife Specialists for participants beginning their equestrian journey. There are no

fees for AHF’s services.

Tracy, a former PATH certified instructor said, “I personally believe there is no greater love or connection a person can make than with an equine. Horses mirror us in a multitude of ways. At our farm we have witnessed unexplained changes in the children we serve. Their physical, mental, and overall health, as well as their entire families’ lives change in a positive direction. The four white walls and cancer treatment at the hospital is necessary, but nothing compares to nature, fresh air, open space and the unconditional love and hope equines give.”

Angel Heart Farm uses equine-assisted therapy in conjunction with cancer treatment for children and families battling cancer. “We incorporate music and art therapy in all of our lessons, and have created a library in our tack room to promote literacy and learning,” Tracy explained when talking about the many therapies AHF offers their clients.

Tracy graciously explained, “As a lifelong horse owner, amateur competitor in the Arabian horse industry, a

farm owner, an instructor for children with mental, physical differences and life threatening illnesses, it is an honor to teach the families we serve about the art of horsemanship.”

Even though there are days that are extremely difficult at AHF, especially when losing children to cancer, Tracy and the team at AHF chose to be there for their clients and families, to help them create love for horses and ponies, set goals, and tell them how much their pony loves them. “I always say it’s not about teaching the horseback riding lesson, it’s teaching life lessons that we learn in the company of ponies and horses,” Tracy states.

Visit https://angelheartfarm.com/ to learn more about Angel Heart Farm.

Beyond Boundaries Equine- Assisted Therapy Center

a non-profit organization that provides equine-assisted activities to children and adults with disabilities.

EquineAssisted Therapy Program

Equine Manager: Magen Cox

Serving: Ward/Beebe/Cabot/ Des Arc, AR Area

Founded: 2004

Therapies:

Equine-Assisted Thereapies: Physical, Occupational, and Speech

Beyond Boundaries is a PATH Certified facility that offers Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy, and Therapeutic Riding Lessons through certified instructors and therapists. Starting in 2004, Beyond Boundaries serves the Ward/Beebe/ Cabot/Des Arc, AR communities. Magen Cox, Equine Manager said, “We would love to see more education and awareness on the benefits of equine- assisted therapy, and in turn be able to see more clients have the opportunity to experience how truly life changing it can be.” Magen continued to express her passion, stating, “Noth-

ing in the world compares to the bond between a horse and human. Horses bring out the best in us, as well as allowing us to do things that would otherwise be impossible. It is truly magical to see the improvement of a client’s mental and physical health with each and every session they spend with our equine partners.”

Individuals seeking Equine-Assisted Therapy from Beyond Boundaries will need a referral from their physician to participate in their physical, occupational, and speech therapies. Clients looking to participate in their therapeutic riding program can reach out to Beyond Boundaries and Megan at www.beyondboundries.org or magenc@beyondboundariesar.org.

Executive Director Lisa Wysocky

Serving:

Colby’s Army & “Quincy”

Helping People with Life Challenges Through Outreach and Interactions with Animals and Nature

On July 25, 2009, Lisa Wysocky, executive director of Colby’s Army, Inc. suffered the loss of her son Colby. Colby was a talented musician, artist, environmentalist and animal lover. As a young 20- year- old, Colby was diagnosed with

schizophrenia. Before entering Grandpa’s House, a Nashville-based program that helps men with mental illness and addictions, Colby’s life came to a tragic end. Lisa, along with several others, founded Colby’s Army to continue the

good work Colby started and to help others who suffer from life challenges.

Colby’s Army and their therapy horse, Quincy, were both nominated and selected as a 2024 Equine-Assisted Therapy Impact Award Honoree. Lisa said, “horses spend their lives studying humans, and in doing so, become ‘Intuitive’ about our needs. Quincy knows exactly what each participant needs from him, and he willingly delivers the exact helping hand or challenge that will set the participant up for success. Our participants understand what a true honor it is for a prey animal, like Quincy, to put his trust in them, and their self-esteem blossoms and confidence grows. This then translates to other areas of their lives and makes wonderful, positive change.”

Colby’s Army is a PATH (Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship) member center, offering recreational therapeutic riding and equine-assisted learning. According to Colby’s Army’s website: “PATH requires high standards of professionalism and safety for people working in the field. In general, equine-assisted activ-

ities include recreational therapeutic riding and other mounted and ground activities such as ground driving, round penning, advanced obstacle leading, grooming and stable management, where participants, volunteers, instructors, horses and/or other equines are involved.”

Colby’s Army is dedicated to not only helping those with life challenges, but also through homeless outreach efforts, adult job training, organic gardening and teaches sustainability through recycling, upcyling, reuse, and repurposing efforts. Their facility displays many sustainable practices and highlights how to be more sustainable in fun and creative ways.

To learn more about Colby’s Army and Quincy, their therapy horse visit http:// www.colbysarmy.org.

EquineAssisted Therapy Program

Founder, Executive Director: Carissa Ramsdell

Serving: Middle Tennessee

Founded: 2015

Therapies: Faith Based Mentorship

Executive Director: Kat Scott

Serving: Tyler, Texas and Surrounding Areas

Founded: 2020

Therapies:

Freedom Reigns

providing faith-based mentorship to children and young adults who have been through trauma and other life-challenges.

Freedom Reigns Ranch serves children and young adults who have been through trauma and other life- challenges. Located in Middle Tennessee, this organization utilizes principles and best practices from multiple mo-

dalities. Carissa Ramsdell, founder and executive director said, “we have chosen not to certify under any specific organization/ therapy program to maintain the freedom to operate as we need to for each individual or specific

group that participates.”

Sessions at Freedom Reigns Ranch are offered in one- on- one, small group, family, and large group formats, and are provided completely free-of-charge, thanks to the generosity of donors. Carissa stated, “Access to valuable services (especially equine) is often cost-preventative for people who need it the most.” This faith based group is dedicated to offering sessions to all who have experienced trauma and life challenges.

“Horses provide instant and non-bias feedback about how we show up in a relationship. The insight gained while working with a horse can easily translate to our every-day lives. As a faith-based organization, it is remarkable how working with a horse mirrors our relationship with God. Horses are powerful and beautiful, but they are prey animals who are inclined to fear. The way they can grow into their purpose is through a relationship with their rider, and it becomes truly beautiful when the trust is mutually shared and manifests to the observer. That’s

GRIT Therapeutic Horsemanship

just what it’s like with our relationship with God- as we grow in trust, willingly follow, and face things that we fear, we can accomplish what we were created for and help make a lasting impact on the world,” Carissa stated.

Freedom Reigns Ranch takes applications that are submitted through their website. The organization provides as many free- of- charge sessions as possible. They currently have a waitlist but serve as many participants as possible each season through the help of donations and volunteers.

To learn more about Freedom Reigns Ranch and their program visit: www.freedomreignsranch.com

promoting autonomy and independence through the means of therapeutic horsemanship.

Kat Scott, Executive Director of GRIT Therapeutic Horsemanship, is a PATH Certified Riding Instructor and Licensed Counselor. Serving Tyler, Texas and surrounding areas, Kat describes GRIT as a therapeutic horsemanship facility whose programming caters towards clients who have been diagnosed with a disability. However, Kat and her team at GRIT specialize in working with those diagnosed with “invisible disabilities.” These can include things like mental health struggles, epilepsy, TBI, autism, learning disabilities, and more. GRIT often works congruently with occupational therapists, physical therapists, and speech and language pathologists so clients have access to a full range

of physica, occupational and mental health therapies.

“As a mental health provider, I think access (to Equine-Assisted Therapies) is the number one barrier to clients receiving services,” Kat said. She pointed out that there are few providers, huge waitlists, and high costs which cause many obstacles to clients receiving mental health support. “Here at GRIT, we try to keep costs as low as possible so that clients are able to be seen within a reasonable time frame and at a reasonable rate,” Kat explained.

At GRIT clients recognize that horses, while are nonverbal, interact with others in social and authentic ways. “Horses cannot lie to other horses,” Kat said. Clients begin to understand their horses’ nonverbal language, and through trust their equine partners provide comfort.

Currently, insurance does not cover therapeutic horsemanship lessons so Kat has her facility setup as a cash-pay facility. GRIT does take self-referrals, as well as referrals by medical providers. Kat said, “we offer free tours to

clients who think they may be interested in our programming, and we suggest referring to our website for more

information.” To learn more about GRIT Therapeutic Horsemanship visit: grittherapeutic.com.

Hillview Farm South

providing a peaceful place for people to connect with nature, the intuitive healing power of horses, and themselves: both mentally and physically

EquineAssisted Therapy Program

Founder, Therapist: Angelina V Wallace, LPCMHSP

Serving: Middle Tennessee/ College Grove Area

Founded: 2018

Therapies: LPC-MHSP, EMDR, NCC, EAGALA Trained

Hillview Farm South serves the Middle Tennessee and College Grove Area. Founded in 2018, Angelina (Nina) Wallace began to offer an assortment of services including: equineassisted psychotherapy, equine- assisted learning, equine- assisted EMDR, and equine yoga as well as experiential therapy with other therapeutic modalities woven in.

“Horses help every step of the way, not only helping people to regulate emotions but also to connect with themselves and recognize emotions. They help keep us grounded, they always know when someone is dissociated. They’ve learned how to tell me things about what’s going on with each client or group, and they always seem to know what people need. Horses always know immediately if someone needs to create more boundaries in their lives. They’re the best coworkers I’ve ever had,” Nina stated when discussing how horses enhance overall health and wellness in patients.

Nina has been a horse woman her entire life. The day after her very first horse show her father suffered a heart

attack and passed away two days later. The shock and trauma from that event caused Nina to shut down. The only being she could “talk” to was her Shetland pony, Bucky. It was from that experience in Nina’s own personal life that she recognized the power horses had to heal. It helped marry her love of horses with her passion for counseling.

“When people tell me how much it (Equine-Assisted Therapy) has helped them or how it has changed their lives for the better it always makes me teary-eyed.” Nina continued, “horses have always saved me, and I love being able to facilitate these interactions for my clients.”

To learn more about Hillview Farm South visit: www.hillviewfarmsouth. com.

EquineAssisted Therapy Program

CEO: Christie Hartin

Serving:

Coeur d’Alene, Idaho and surrounding areas

Founded: 2020

Therapies:

LCSW and EAGALA Equine Assisted Psychotherapy

Hope Reins Foundation

Offering mental health services to families and youth, individuals, veterans, and corporations.

Hope Reins Foundation was founded in 2020. They have a herd of 12 therapy horses and two donkeys: eight geldings, five mares, and one stallion as well as rescue horses. This Equine Assisted Psychotherapy facility is nestled in the trees of North Idaho. It offers clients the experience to externalize their emotions, realize their goals and come up with solutions within themselves.

Christie Hartin, CEO, stated, “Horses and burros meet clients where they are at emotionally and physically, therefore giving them a space to freely express themselves and to ‘see’ the behaviors they would like to change.”

Christie said her favorite thing about her job is, “watching clients become empowered to invoke change within themselves and build positive experiences with the horses and therapy team”.

The Hope Reins Foundation website explains that their therapeutic approach assists clients in reconnecting with their emotions and owning their feelings. In a safe environment, clients are provided an opportunity to

Panther Creek Health

step into an experience that will help facilitate their ability to ‘see’ their behaviors and how those behaviors impact self and others. All activities are completed on the ground. No horseback riding or knowledge of horses is required.

Anyone can become a patient at Hope Reins’ facility. They do accept referrals from therapists and doctors’ offices. Hope Reins Foundation provides clients with a superbill for insurance submission. To learn more about Hope Reigns Foundation and their program visit: www.hopereinsfoundation.org

EquineAssisted Therapy Program

Executive Director

Mylissa Horrocks

Serving: North Mississippi and the Greater Memphis, Tennessee Area

Founded: 2022

Therapies: Natural Lifemanship and Equine Psychotherapy

Providing emotional and behavioral health and wellness through an innovative, outdoor setting.

Panther Creek Health is situated in Nesbit, Mississippi, about 20 miles south of Memphis, Tennessee. Their facility is home to Panther Creek Ranch and Stables, and is one of the only facilities in North Mississippi that offers mental health, sensory and ecotherapy, along with multi-discipline horseback riding lessons and training.

Mylissa Horrocks, executive director, expressed the desire for, “greater acceptance of experiential methods of therapy.” She continued by stating, “horses are sentient beings who are able to build connections with their human partners. For many, human

relationships have been fraught with struggle, pain or difficulty. Horses help us learn safety, boundaries and clarity in relationships, and these connections often translate nicely to our human relationships.”

Taelor Cambre, a client of Panther Creek, testified, “I myself have Cerebral Palsy and have struggled with balance and mobility issues my whole life. I was told I’d never be able to ride horses. Since coming to Panther Creek my balance, dexterity, and overall fitness has improved more than I ever thought it was possible. They have some of the best horses any equine-assisted program could ask for.”

Panther Creek partners with Parkwood Behavioral Health in Olive Branch, Mississippi. Patients at Parkwood Behavioral Health are able to interact with therapy horses and ponies on a regular basis. Many patients have stated that through Panther Creek Health’s equine- assisted therapy they have “learned respect and trust, how to stay calm in the heat of the moment, and have grown to be more assertive and confident.”

sliding scale. They are dedicated to

Rustic Way Ranch

a place where the mental and emotional health of teens is enhanced through therapeutic horsemanship, professional counseling, and nature-based experiences.

EquineAssisted Therapy Program

Executive Director: Brooke Carreker

Serving:

North Dallas, Texas Area

Founded: 2023

Therapies:

Horsemanship: EAGALA;

Counseling:

Licensed Professional Counselor

Rustic Way Ranch is a newer therapeutic riding and counseling facility located in Melissa, Texas which is in the North Dallas area. Rustic Way Ranch’s mission is to serve teens suf-

fering from mental and emotional difficulties through therapeutic horsemanship, professional counseling, and nature-based experiences.

A parent of a patient praised Rustic

Way Ranch stating, “Our daughter, age 13, was diagnosed with ADHD in the third grade. In addition to that, she also struggles with social anxiety. When you put these two things together, it makes it very hard to be a 7th grade girl. It is also hard to parent at times…Up until a few months ago, we had no idea there was therapy that involves horses. We immediately knew this was what we needed to try for our daughter. After her first session with Courtney at Rustic Way Ranch, we knew we had found exactly what our daughter needed! She hasn’t been this emotionally or socially confident in years! And what I love about Rustic Way is the authenticity behind how they began. They took their own personal story and are using it to help others- one of those being our daughter.”

Rustic Way Ranch is certified in EAGALA and has licensed professional counselors. Brook Carreler, executive director of Rustic Way Ranch explained, “horses, by nature, are empathetic creatures. Without fail, we hear people comment that the size and

Saddle Up!

strength of the horses coupled with their gentle demeanor is ‘disarming.’ Horses in particular, exude empathy and care for individuals. Within our program, the effect of this empathetic experience with the horse is what leads our young clients to feel seen and heard. This gentle interaction provides a safe place for the kids to voice their thoughts and feelings, and it is in this space that we can introduce coping skills that equip the kids on the ranch and off the ranch - and into the rest of their lives.”

To learn more about Rustic Way Ranch visit: rusticwayranch.org.

to impact the lives of children and young adults with disabilities by providing opportunities to grow and develop through therapeutic, educational and recreational experiences with horses.

Executive Director

Audrey Kidd

Serving:

Saddle Up! was founded in 1989 in middle Tennessee. The organization serves over 15 counties between south Kentucky and the middle Tennessee region. It is a PATH International Premiere Accredited Center providing Occupational, Speech, Physical Therapy, and Adaptive Riding for children and young adults with over 50 diagnosed disabilities.

Audrey Kidd, Executive Director, said “Any child or young adult with a diagnosed disability may ride at Saddle Up! and many of our riders are referred by word of mouth. We do need appropriate medical forms, but do not

require a physician referral. We provide financial assistance to over 30% of our riders and no child is ever denied the opportunity to participate due to financial circumstances. In our therapy programs, we do not bill insurance directly but support our parents with the billing and paperwork they require to submit to their insurance carriers.”

At Saddle Up! the team sees milestones and miracles happen daily. Audrey expressed that it is an honor to be a part of the program. “The joy of our children, the pride of their parents in their progress, and the creativity and compassion of our PATH certified instructors and therapists is a blessing to be a part of. Our volunteers are a special group of caring and dedicated individuals, and we are proud that they consider Saddle Up! their “happy place”. It is a pleasure to work with the horses that make up our therapy herd - we learn from their gentle hearts every day.”

Audrey explained that the horse/ human connection has many benefits for riders, in particular neurotypical riders who may be working on com-

munication and social skills. “The horse mirrors the rider in a calm and empathetic state that no other therapy partner can.” She continued, “for our riders who are focused on core strength and physical therapy, the natural motion of the horse is unique in its ability to mimic the movement of

the human body working in an upright position, giving our riders accelerated support on those areas as they work to improve motor control, coordination, balance, attention, sensory processes, and performance in daily activities.”

To learn more about Saddle Up! visit: saddleupnashville.org.

Southern Reins Center for Equine Therapy

to serve individuals with physical, cognitive and emotional disabilities and hardship by providing equine-assisted services to empower, inspire, nurture and succeed.

EquineAssisted Therapy Program

Executive Director

Jill Haag

Serving: Greater Memphis, Tennessee Area

Founded: 2015

Therapies:

PATH Intl. Premier

Accredited Center, offering Physical, Occupational, Hippotherapy, and Mental Health

Counseling

Southern Reins Center for Equine Therapy was founded in 2015 in the greater Memphis area. Now calling Eads, Tennessee home, the organization serves people with disabilities and hardship throughout the greater MidSouth.

Jill Haag, Executive Director states, “our adaptive riding program is offered to individuals five years of age or older, and occupational therapy incorporating Hippotherapy, which may be reimbursable by insurance, is offered to individuals two years of age or older.

Southern Reins equine-assisted services are designed to improve the quality of life for individuals with disabilities and hardship including down syndrome, autism, multiple sclerosis, traumatic brain injury, cerebral palsy, amputation, cognitive and physical disabilities, trauma, and more. Their programs provide access and inclusion, foster compassion and caring, and encourage goal achievement and personal growth for their patients.

“Every day we witness the powerful

and miraculous ways horses help our participants overcome obstacles and challenges. With every interaction, they encourage people to feel their emotions. With every step, they help individuals achieve new milestones toward improving their strength and stamina. With every stride, they build confidence, break through boundaries, and deliver unmatched joy and achievement,” Jill says while describing the effects she sees on their patients and clients.

To learn more about Southern Reins and their programs visit: www.southernreins.org

Stirrups ‘n Strides Therapeutic Riding Center, Inc.

empowering individuals through therapeutic horseback riding, carriage driving, and equine-assisted therapy.

EquineAssisted Therapy Program

Executive Director: Betty Gray

Serving: Citra/Orange Lake in Marion County, FL

Founded: 2007

Therapies:

PATH Certified providing physical and mental health therapies.

Stirrups ‘n Strides Therapeutic Riding Center, Inc. began in 2007. As members of Professional Association of Therapeutic Riding, (PATH) Stirrups n’ Strides is a Certified Special Olympic Center located in Citra/Orange Lake in Marion County, Fl.

Stirrups ‘n Strides provides recreational therapeutic riding through PATH Certified Riding Instructors. The organization also provides equine- assisted therapy through their veteran’s program by assisting military personnel in their recovery from PTSD. Stirrups n’ Strides encourages riders and clients to compete in horse shows. Betty Gray, Executive Director, explains that horse shows “help build confidence and self-esteem by giving riders goals and awards for their achievements.”

Currently Stirrups n’ Strides serves children and adults, starting as young as age four and up. Potential clients may display physical, mental or emotional challenges, which makes them eligible to participate in the program. Clients must fill out a rider application and a medical form must be filled out by a physician. Betty stated, “we do

not take health insurance plans, but we do offer scholarships to those who are eligible.”

When asked about the major benefits of equine-assisted therapy Betty said, “Not only does riding a horse help improve strength, coordination, and balance, but it also helps improve confidence, self-esteem, attention span and emotional benefits. Most importantly, it provides individuals a sense of freedom and independence.”

To learn more about Strides n’ Stirrups visit: https://www.stirrupsnstrides.com.

Highlights from the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event

Photos by Grace Netter

AGRICENTER SHOWPLACE ARENA

(901) 757-7777 ext.7106

http://www.agricenter.org/events/

May 2-5: Lucky Dog Barrel Race, Cordova TN

May 17-19: Volunteer Ranch Horse Assoc., Cordova, TN

May 23-27: Mid-South Cutting Club, Cordova, TN

June 5-12: Ranch Horse Congress, Cordova, TN

June 21-23: U.S. Mounted Shooting, Cordova, TN

www.gchs.org (901) 754-0009

May 2-5: Memphis in May I, Germantown, TN

May 4: No Frills 1, Brownland Farm, Franklin, TN

May 5: No Frills 2, Brownland Farm, Franklin, TN

May 18-12: Memphis in May II, Germantown, TN

June 4-8: Germantown Charity Horse Show, Germantown, TN

June 21-23: ExEL Summer Spectacular, Germantown, TN

MISSISSIPPI HORSE PARK

Starkville, MS (662)3250508; (662)325-9350

https://mshorsepark.com/events

June 7-8: Northeast District Horse Show

ROANE STATE EXPO CENTER

Roane State Community College, Harriman, TN

http://www.roanestateedu/?6497-Events-Calendar

May 3-5: East TN Cutting Horse Assoc.

May 11-12: Peach State Miniature Horse Show

May 17-19: SERHS Show

June 7-9: SERHS Show

June 13-16: TQHA Dogwood Classic

Murfreesboro, TN www.mtsu.edu/tlc

May 3-4: SSHBEA 39th Annual Spring Fun Show

Murfreesboro, TN www.mtsu.edu/tmc

May 1-5: TQHA Lucky 7 Quarter Horse Show

May 9-11: WHOA Spring Extravaganza / Triple Crown

May 15: TNRHA Spinning in the Rein

May 31: Central Region 4-H Horse Show 8 am-8 pm

June 1: Central Region 4-H Horse Show 8 am-8:30 pm

June 4-5: MTSU Youth Equestrian Clinics

June 8-9: POA Southeast Regional

Calendar of Events

TRI-STATE EXHIBITION CENTER

Cleveland, TN 423-476-9310

www.tristateexhibitioncenter.org

May 3-4: NBHA

May 17-18: National Racking Horse Show

May 24-25: Smoky Mtn. Horse Show

May 30-June2: YEDA

June 7-8: NBHA

June 20-22: Cleveland Invitational Horse Show

June 25-29: Cleveland Charity Horse Show

TUNICA ARENA & EXPOSITION CENTER

Tunica, MS (662)363-3299 https:// tunicaarena.com/ https://www.facebook.com/TunicaArenaExpo/

May 17-19: Logo Ranch Prod. Barrel Race

June 28-30: Logo Ranch Prod. Barrel Race

Franklin, TN (615) 595-1227

Hunter Pace, Lynnville

COWBOY CHURCH

https://blcc.church/ 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. 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 901-355-3204 for more information.

June 23: Tennessean, Miller Colosseum, Murfreesboro, TN

http://useventing.com; www.river-glen.com; https://panthercreekstables.com/competition-calendar/ May 10-12: Spring Horse Trials -River Glen Equestrian Park, New Market, TN May 18-19: Dressage by the River I- River Glen Equestrian Park, Market, TN

FIELD TRIALS

https://americanfield.com/calendar https://americanfield.com/calendar June 29: Purina Bird Dog Awards, Huntsville, AL

HORSE SALES/ADOPTIONS

https://www.agexpopark.info/calendar.php

June 20-22: Extreme Mustang Makeover

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

May 4-5: TN High School Rodeo, Holly Springs, Ms (www.tnhsra.com)

May 31-June 2: State Finals, Hyder-Burks Arena - Cookeville, TN

WILLIAMSON COUNTY AG EXPO PARK YOUTH RODEO

(731) 855-1860 https://www. tennesseeyouthrodeo.org/

May 10-11: Selmer, TN

LITTLE BRITCHES RODEO

www.nlbra.com, www.mslbra.org/schedule https://www.mslbra.org/entry

May 4-5: Tri-Star LBR - Lebanon, TN - James E Ward Ag Center

May 4-5: Calbra - Searcy, ARWhite County Fairgrounds

May 12: Red River LBR - Texarkana, AR -Four ST. Fair & Rodeo Arena

May 18-19: Tennessee LBR - Columbia, TN - PJ Farms

May 25: MSLBRA -Brandon MS # 21 - Rankin Co. Multi. Pavillion

May 26: Awards

June 1: CALBRA - SEARCY, AR - White County Fairgrounds

HIGH SCHOOL RODEO DRESSAGE

https://www.ponyclub.org/ Calendars/Events.aspx https://midsouth.ponyclub.org/calendar/ https://deepsouth.ponyclub.org/ https://middletennessee.ponyclub.org/calendar/

May 25-26: Regional Mounted Clinic, Percy Warner Park, Nashville, TN

June 18-23: Mega Rally, Nashville, TN cy Warner Park, Nashville

April 7: Midsouth Show Jumping Rally, Percy Warner Park, Nashville April 13: Hillsboro Hounds

FIRST SATURDAY: Houston, MS. Triple E Livestock. Tack 10 am. Horses 2 pm. Info: A.J. Ellis 662-401-9760; 662-266-2808

FOURTH SATURDAY: Holly Springs, MS. Marshall County Fairgrounds. Marshall Co. Livestock Exchange. 662-317-9021 First, Third, Fifth Saturday:Dunlap, TN. American Made Livestock Market. Tack 3pm. Horses 6pm. 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 8:30 pm. Info: Chucky Greenway 731-571-8198

http://www.nbha.com; https:// ibra.us/shows/US-TN-WEST May 10: Circle K Arena, Summertown, TN May 17-19: IBRA Preferred ShowCooper Steel Arena, Shelbyville, TN May 25: Donna Stampley Memorial Barrel Race- Bryant Lane Cowboy Church, Como, MS May 27: IBRA Marshall County Fairgrounds, Holly Springs, MS May 31-June 2: Future Fortunes 50,000 Super Tour, Memphis, TN June 28: IBRA Youth Preferred ShowCooper Steel Arena, Shelbyville, TN

www.midsouthdressageacademy.org, www.TNDressage.com, kentuckydressageassociation.com, May 18: CTDA Sanctioned Schooling Show, Walnut Trace Farm, Nashville, TN May 18-19: Dressage By The River I-USEF/USDF, River Glen Eq. Park, New Market, TN.

June: 21-22: Tennessean Express, Miller Colosseum, Murfreesboro, TN

http://wthja.com, www.brownlandfarm. com, www.mthja.com, www.ethja.org www.gulfcoastclassiccompany.com

May 2-5: Memphis in May I, Germantown, TN

May 4: No Frills 1, Brownland Farm, Franklin, TN

May 5: No Frills 2, Brownland Farm, Franklin, TN

May 18-12: Memphis in May II, Germantown, TN

May 22-26 Nashville Country, Brownland Farm, Franklin, TN

May 29-June 2: Nashville Classic, Brownland Farm, Franklin, TN June 21-23: ExEL Summer Spectacular, Germantown, TN

June 26-30: Brownland Farm Summer, Brownland Farm, Franklin, TN

QUARTER HORSE SHOWS

www.mqha.org, www.wtqha.org, www.midsouth quarter horse.com, facebook Mid-South Breeders May 11-12: Crawfish Classic - Ike Hamilton Expo Center, West Monroe, LA

www.nationalsteeplechase.com, https:// www.oaklawn.com/racing/calendar/ , https://www.keeneland.com/ www.national steeplechase.com, May 3: Natural State Breeders’ Stakes, Oaklawn Racing May 4: Arkansas Breeders’ Championship Stakes, Oaklawn Racing

May 4: Lake Hamilton Stakes, Oaklawn Racing

May 5: Lake Ouachita Stakes, Oaklawn Racing May 11: Iroquois Steeplechase, Nashville, TN www.americanranchhorse. net, www.volrha.com

HUNTER JUMPER RANCH HORSE

May 17-19: Southeast Ranch Horse Series, RSCC, Harriman, TN

May 25-26: MRHA, Marshall County Fairgrounds, Holly Springs, MS

June 7-9: Southeast Ranch Horse

PONY CLUB

BARREL RACING

Series, Harriman, TN

June 15-16: MS Ranch Horse Association, Brookhaven, MS

www.ipra-rodeo.com, www.prorodeo. com, www.lonestarrodeocompany.com https://calvarychurch.net/cowboychurch

May 4: Houston Levee Cowboy Church

May 18: Three Trees Rodeo- Three Trees Cowboy Church, Wynne, AR

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

SUBMIT YOUR EVENTS TO: INFO@MSHORSEREVIEW. COM

Calendar of Events

SADDLE CLUB

RODEOS & BULL RIDING

Marketplace Business Cards

New Hope Saddles & Tack

EQUINE VETERINARY SERVICES

MARK A. AKIN , DVM Practice limited to Lameness and Performance Issues associated with the Equine Athlete By appointment only : 601-813-1128 cell 901-854-6773 (85-HORSE) MAkindvm86@gmail.com ©MSHR

Marketplace Classifieds

EVENTS

Horse-drawn carriage drivers needed in Downtown Memphis. We will train. No experience necessary. (901) 496-2128. uptowncarriages. com

Boarding at beautiful WHITE OAK

FARM: Located on 40 acres in northeast Shelby County at 10023 Rosemark Rd. Full Board $450/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 901-833-3075.

JOB OPPORTUNITIES

SALES POSITION- The Horse Review is seeking a consultative marketing professional to prospect and meet with horse industry business owners to consult high quality equine marketing services. Email cover letter, resume, and references to labbott@thehorsereview.com.

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

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

Part- Time Social Media Coordinator Needed. Help horse business with organizing social media and email newsletters. Required hours: 10 MIN- 20 hours MAX per week in office located in Eads, TN. happymemphishorses@gmail.com

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

Charles Mercer, DVM • Chara Short, DVM Allison Parnell, DVM

Miranda Easom, DVM