Photos by Superlative Equine, Kirstie Marie & Jeff Kirkbride & Shane Rux
FEATURES
RED BAG DELIVERIES: TIPS ON SAVING YOUR MARE AND FOAL 16-20
By Katie Navarra
EVENTS
FLORIDA CIRCUITS: COMPETIITON TOUGH IN OCALA 24-27
By Corrine S. Borton
Photos by Cody Parmenter
PHBA CONVENTION: SET FOR MARH 5-8 IN TULSA 32
By Corrine S. Borton
REGULAR COLUMNS TRAINER PROFILE 42-43
Dillon Vaughn
AMATEUR PROFILE 44-45
Matt Bennett
“INSIDE” LAW 49
By
Katherine Jarve
“INSIDE” HEALTH 47-48
By Dr. Luke Bass
THE BUZZ 46 ASSOCIATION NEWS 51
JANUARY, 2025
ADVERTISING SALES
Courtney B. Ament
Deanna Green Willis
WEBSITE ADVERTISING
Courtney B. Ament
TECHNICAL ANALYST
Brent Adam Borton
CIRCULATION
Lenora B. Sheppard
ADVERTISING DESIGNERS
Bar H Photography
Courtsey Designs
Emajes
Hampel Designs
Jakovich Marketing
Melissa Baus Designs
Norfleet Photography
Valor Designs
SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER
Kelsey Keathy
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Courtney Borton Ament
Corrine S. Borton
Brianna Huggins
Katie Navarra
COLUMNISTS
Katherine Jarve
Jordan Strickler
COPY & RESEARCH
Lenora B. Sheppard
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Courtney B. Ament
Jeff Kirkbride
Kirstie Marie
Cody Parmenter
RMB Photography
Shane Rux
Superlative Equine
Larry Williams
831 Ranch Photography
He is the top National Snaffle Bit Association (NSBA) Open Western Pleasure money earner with over $1.3 million in lifetime earnings. So when Rusty Green selects, trains and shows a young contender, people pay attention. The industry pays attention.
That’s exactly the case with the young Western Pleasure sire Top Gunn (Cruz), a 2020 bay stallion, now standing his second season at stud.
The story about how Cruz came into Rusty’s life is a fortunate stroke of serendipity. Rusty and his wife, Katie, were on a trip to Texas late in 2020 to visit family when they met up with friends, Todd and Lisa Neilberger. That same night the Neilberger/Green Partnership was formed. The very next day, they saw Top Gunn for the first time.
“Rusty’s mom, Mary Green, previously owned Cruz’s dam, Ima Potential, so it was somewhat a full-circle family thing,” Katie Green said. “
Rusty and Katie knew Cruz would be something special and made arrangements for the youngster to return with them to their training facility in Ocala, Florida.
Then again, Top Gunn was bred for this. His sire, Machine Made has been the American Quarter Horse Association’s leading sire of Western Pleasure contenders since 2019, with offspring earning over $4 million and 8,500 AQHA points. In 2024 Top Gunn was his top money earner with $50,256. Top Gunn’s dam, Ima Potential, who has produced offspring with NSBA earnings in excess of $203,000 and more than 2,000 AQHA points (including Congress Champion and AQHA and NSBA World Champion No Doubting Me).
Rusty says Cruz has always been a very balanced horse.
“He never went through that awkward stage so many do growing up,” he said.
Between his outstanding conformation and great mind, the training process was a smooth one. But Green took his time nonetheless, allowing the youngster to show him what he was ready to do.
In 2023 Cruz made his show debut, with Rusty in the saddle, by winning the 3-Year-Old and Over Limited Horse Western Pleasure slot class, at the March To The Arch in Fort Worth, Texas, taking home a prize check of $23,000. s
Text Corrine S. Borton Photos Superlative Equine, Kirstie Marie, Jeff Kirkbride & Shane Rux
They followed that up with a third place in the 3-Year-Old & Over Limited Horse Western Pleasure at the Virginia Maiden, earning an additional $1,625. And, Rusty’s daughter, Deanna Willis teamed with Top Gunn to earn a Reserve Championship in the 3-YearOld Non-Pro Western Pleasure in Virginia, earning $812.50. After that it was off to the Southern Ohio Quarter Horse Association’s Madness Circuit for Cruz where he and Rusty were Reserve Champions in the 3-Year-Old & Over Novice Horse Western Pleasure, collecting another $7,500. Top Gunn ended 2023 with a bang when he and Deanna were named Quarter Horse Congress Champions in the 3-YearOld Limited Non-Pro Western Pleasure and placed third in the Open Division of that same class, earning a total of $10,536.16.
“Top Gunn is the very definition of a show horse,” Deanna said. “He brightens up when you trot in the gate. He puts his ears up and does his thing.”
Deanna thinks he has all the right qualities to qualify him as a “natural.”
“He’s forward, deep hocked, has great expression and a very strong topline,” she explained. “That’s just him. It’s the most natural thing the way he presents himself.”
But as every seasoned exhibitor knows, all the talent in the world means nothing if a contender does not have a great mind. A stallion winning a 3-year-old non-pro class at the Congress is proof of just how great minded Top Gunn really is. Deanna says it’s just important to keep him happy.
“Outside of the show pen Cruz is very food motivated,” Deanna admitted. “We keep his hay bag full at all times. He takes meal time very seriously.”
But that was just the beginning of Top Gunn’s show career. At last year’s Congress, Cruz and Rusty returned to place sixth in a very tough Junior Western Pleasure Class.
Top Gunn stood his first season in 2024 at Mike and Jan Hay’s Pilot Knob Stud in Reddick, Florida and his first foals are just starting to hit the ground.
Pictured at top is Top Gunn, a 2020 bay stallion sired by Machine Made out of Ima Potential. He is standing the 2025 breding season at Pilot Knob Stud in Reddick, Florida. Below that (left) Cuz is pictured with Rusty Green at the 2024 March To The Arch after they won the 3-Year-Old & Over Open Western Pleasure Slot Class; and with Deanna Willis (right) after the pair won the 3-Year-Old Limited Non-Pro Western Pleasure at the 2024 Quarter Horse Congress.
Top Gunn’s
“He is so great across his back and so far his babies look to be the same,” Rusty said. “In today’s industry I believe we have pivoted away from a horse with a natural balance and swing behind. I believe Cruz can pass those traits down to his offspring.”
Top Gunn returns to Pilot Knob this year and his 2025 stud fee is $1,500. Shipped semen is available. Cruz is enrolled in the NSBA Stallion Incentive Program as well as the NSBA Breeders Championship Futurity and Color Division; the Super Sires and Premier Sires; as well as the Michigan and Iowa Breeders programs.
foals, like the two pictured above, are arriving this year and Rusty
looks for them to be strong across their back, just like their sire. Cruz is enrolled in the NSBA Stallion Incentive Fund, as well as in the association’s Breeders Championship Futurity and BCF Color programs. His 2025 stud fee is $1,500. Special consideration is given to proven performers and producers and shipped semen is available.
“We are really excited to see what the future holds for Cruz as a sire,” Katie said. “It’s been a great partnership with Mike and Jan (Hay) and we could not as for him to be in better hands.”
After the conclusion of the 2025 breeding season the focus will return to Top Gunn’s show career. He will compete in Junior Western Pleasure and Amateur Western Pleasure
For information on breeding to Top Gunn, contact Mike or Jan Hay at Pilot Knob Stud in Reddick, Florida. You can call (336) 462-2527 or email pilotknobqh@gmail.com. You can also gather more information on Top Gunn’s Facebook page.
first
Green
Because
premature placenta separation is not visible until delivery, there aren’t steps
a mare owner can take to prevent the situation
In 2023, veteran American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) broodmare Slow Low And Lazy was in the process of giving birth to her sixth foal. Labor started around 7 p.m., and things looked normal. Ohio breeder Debbi Trubee who owns North Farm Inc. with Roger Landis, observed the mare waiting for her water to break.
It never did.
Recognizing something was amiss, Trubee closely monitored the mare as she lay down. She knew there was a problem when she saw the placenta emerge from the birth canal before the amniotic sac.
“There is no question when the placenta presents first as it’s a bright red, thick membrane as opposed to the amniotic sac, which is opaque white,” Trubee said. “We immediately grabbed a knife and cut the placenta reaching in to find the foal’s front two feet and hauled the baby out.”
Without intervention, the situation could have been fatal for the foal. Red bag deliveries occur in less than five percent of pregnancies, according to Patrick M. McCue, DVM, Ph.D., Diplomate ACT, a professor at Colorado State University’s Equine Reproduction Laboratory. In veterinary terms, a red bag delivery is called premature placental separation.
“The term red-bag refers to premature separation of the placenta in which outer membrane the, chorioallantois, is detaching from the endometrium of the mare,” he explained. “Because of that detachment, the foal is losing its oxygen supply transferred from mare to foal across the placenta. The more separation that occurs, the greater the degree of hypoxia that the fetus is exposed to. The placenta typically becomes detached near the caudal end of the uterus near the cervix. detachment may continue cranially forward, and as mare goes into labor, the cervix relaxes and opens.”
While the condition can be deadly to the foal, there is little
risk to the mare aside from typical foaling side effects of bruis ing, vaginal trauma, etc. And as far as veterinarians can tell, there aren’t any risks to future pregnancies.
Trubee’s ability to recognize a red bag delivery and quick response time saved the foal’s life. Here’s what you need to know to respond as quickly as possible for a positive outcome.
NO KNOWN CAUSE
Trubee has foaled out hundreds of mares, and Slow Low And Lazy’s delivery of A Freckle Wild was the first red bag delivery she encountered. According to McCue, it’s largely unknown what causes premature placenta separation.
“Sometimes it can happen because of a thickened placenta, fescue toxicity, and stress, but many times the reason is unknown,” he said.
There are also no warning signs – the only clue reveals itself during delivery. The fact that most mares foal at night complicates the situation. McCue said that 93 percent of mares foal between 9 p.m. and 8 a.m.. Consequently, that is when there is the highest risk for red bag deliveries. Since premature placenta separation provides no early signals, McCue encourages horse handlers to keep late term mares in a foaling stall or other visible area for easy observation and a quick response if needed.
“If a mare is out a large pasture and has a red bag delivery, there’s less chance the foal will survive,” he said.
rounds the fetus, and the umbilical cord.
A FAST RESPONSE
Although this was Trubee’s first red bag delivery, she could recognize and respond to the situation quickly because each foaling season she spends time reading up on complicated deliveries. Colorado State University offers an online Foaling and Foal Care course (https://csuvetce.com/catalog/equine/foaling-and-foal-care/) that includes how to recognize dystocia (difficult birth) and how to respond.
“Very few of us have a vet onsite or as a next-door neighbor so if you’re foaling mares out, please take the time to do a refresher course each year before foaling season,” she said. “In the heat of the moment, those lessons will potentially save your mare or foal.”
Understanding the anatomical structures associated with the delivery process is key to recognizing the signs and taking action to save a foal during a red bag delivery.
Dr. McCue explained that the placenta transfers nutrients and oxygen between the mare and the fetus. It is comprised of three parts: the chorioallantois, which attaches to the uterus, and the amnion, which is the membrane that sur-
During a normal delivery, the mare’s uterine contractions increase in magnitude, and the resulting pressure on the uterus causes the placenta to rupture. This tear occurs at the cervical star, the spot that opens into the birth canal. The rupture causes the “water break” or the release of a large quantity of allantoic fluid. In a typical scenario, the contractions continue, and the foal is pushed out of the birth canal.
“During red bag delivery, the outer placental membrane stays intact, but the microvilli connecting the placenta to the uterus start to let go, and the intact placenta containing the foal gets pushed out,” Dr. McCue explained.
In a normal birth, a release of fluids followed by a thin, transparent, greyish-white membrane are the first things you’ll see. However, in a red bag delivery, a red, velvety placenta, “the red bag,” is the first to emerge from the birth canal. When the placenta detaches from the uterus but is unbroken, the foal is left without an oxygen source since the placenta’s attachment to the uterus facilitates oxygen transfer, among other functions.
“The placenta’s contact with the uterus is likely decreased by at least 30 to 50 percent at the start of this situation,” he said.
Typically, the foal is born within 15-17 minutes after a mare’s water breaks. A foal can arrive in less than 10 minutes, or a delivery can last up to 20 minutes or more. However, every second matters in a red bag delivery because the foal is deprived of oxygen.
“The biggest thing with a red bag is to get the placenta cut open, which takes a knife, scalpel, or scissors as it’s ttt
Debbi Trubee and Rogers Landis, pictured on the opposite page, own and operate North Farm, an AQHA breedig operation in Ohio. Below that (left) is an example of a red bag presentation and what a normal presentation looks like (at right). On this page (top) Trubee’s AQHA mare Slow Low And Lazy. s
tough; then reach in and pull the baby out immediately,” Trubee said. “This filly was slow for a few days but with meds and some help, she was just fine in no time.”
Currently, there is no research or data to show if there is a grace period during this emergency because there is no way to know how much of the placenta is detached or how long the detachment has occurred, explained Dr. McCue. During a normal birth, the foal passes through the birth canal with lower oxygen levels for a very short time and fills his lungs with air in his first breath. Since a red bag interferes with the oxygen supply, the foal is experiencing lower oxygen levels for an extended period.
“Unfortunately, some mares will have a detached placenta for a period of time, and depending on the length of time, foal may not survive,” he said.
FAST ACTIOn EQUALS POSITIVE OUTCOMES
Red bag deliveries are challenging because they arrive without warning and are not influenced by management practices – it’s truly an act of Mother Nature. Fortunately, Trubee had done her homework.
`Trubee’s annual review of foaling complications saved A Freckle Wild’s life. The 2023 filly by Makin Me Willy Wild and out of Slow Low And Lazy (x Lazy Loper) is a healthy 2-year-old who experienced no side effects. She is a Super Sires nominated foal that has been sold and will be started under saddle. Trubee encourages all breeders to bone up on foaling procedures annually.
“I think very inexperienced people think they can just let the mare push the placenta out on her own. They probably don’t realize the baby is suffocating in that bag while they are watching. A foal cannot break the placenta on its own like it can the amniotic sac,” she said. “Even if you think you’ve seen it all before, a refresher course never hurts.”
Most mares can deliver future foals without incidence. However, McCue suggests breeders who have had mares with challenging deliveries closely watch those mares and use ultrasound to look for any degree of placenta separation during late gestation.
“Because premature placenta separation is not visible until delivery, there aren’t steps a mare owner can take to prevent the situation,” he said. “Taking the time to learn the normal delivery process and what signposts to watch for could mean the difference between life and death during red bag deliveries.” ttt
Pictured on this page is A Freckle Wild, the AQHA foal Debbi Trubee saved from a red bag delivery in 2023, thanks to her vast knowledge and fast actions.
WHAT’S IN YOUR FOALING KIT?
Red bag deliveries are only one of the foaling complications, collectively called dystocia, that can occur. Before foaling season arrives, stock up on these supplies to prepare for any situation you may encounter.
Veterinarians recommend including these items in a foaling kit:
• Scissors, knife or scalpel
• Sterile exam gloves
• Thermometer
• Stethoscope
• Tail wrap
• Sterile obstetrical sleeves and lubricant if necessary to check fetus position
• Clean bucket
• Naval dip (50/50 2% CHLORHEXIDINE +H20)
• Umbilical tape and clamps
• Colostrum banking/foal bottle
• Foal bottle and nipple (lamb or baby), 35 mL oral syringe
• Placenta bucket +/-baling twine
• Roll cotton
• Enema
• Iodine or chlorhexidine scrub/ivory soap or baby shampoo
• Towel to dry foal and stimulate respiration
• Flashlight for extra light if needed since most mares foal at night
For the first time at World Equestrian Center; boasts over 25,000 AQHA entries
Text Corrine S. Borton Photos Cody Parmenter
After decades of competition at the Florida State Fairgrounds in Tampa, the Florida Quarter Horse Association this year moved its Gold and Gulf Coast circuits to the World Equestrian Center in Ocala.
Action got under way with the Gold Coast Circuit, sanctioned by the FQHA, AQHA and NSBA Dec. 27 to 31 with English and Western classes ranging
from Halter and Showmanship to Hunter Under Saddle and Western Pleasure and from Trail and Western Riding to Ranch and Over Fences. After pausing to celebrate the new year, the contest continued Jan. 1-5 with the Gulf Coast Circuit. In total, An Equine Production management group reported over 25,000 total AQHA entries from start to finish.
Gold Coast High Point Champions
High Point Senior Horse: Whata Moonlite Ride and Isabella D’Onofrio, champion; She Will Be Somebody and Tracy Hritz, reserve.
High Point Junior Horse: Hot Dig It and Rebecca Edward, champion.
High Point Green/L1 Horse: Just Call Me RL and Cindy Vanelswyk, champion; Doubl Or Nothin and Rick Smith, reserve.
High Point L1 Amateur: Kruze Control and Lacey Shambo, champion; Kickin Dust Up and Molli Froman, reserve.
High Point Amateur:Moonlite Cruiser and Kaleena Weakly, champion; Kickin Dust Up and Molli Froman, reserve.
High Point L1 Select: AnotherDayInParadise and Jenny Dobratz, champion; Shootin The Breeze and Marcie McClenon, reserve.
High Point Select: Nothin Myst and Dan Yeager, champion; RR Certainly A Lady and Anne Wilson, reserve.
High Point L1 Youth:Party Favours and Emerson Knabenshue, champion; Catch Twenty Two and Aidan Rizk, reserve.
High Point 13 & Under: Made Just For U and Kenidee Thomas, champion; Good Evanescence and London Nietzer, reserve.
High Point 14-18: I Will Be A Good RV and Ava Hathaway, champion; Itzonly Make Believe and Alexandra Rippeon, reserve.
High Point Small FryChampion: Dontcha Know Im Lazy and Gracelyn Friedline, champion; Ima Southern Thing and Alexa Kozuch, reserve.
High Point L1 Youth Walk/Jog: Dontcha Know Im Lazy and Gracelyn Friedline, champion; Ima Southern
Loper and Harper Barre, reserve.
High Point L1 Amateur Walk/Jog: Sexy Suggestions and Ashley Zimlich, champion; KM Easy Come Easy Go and Janet Sandvick, reserve.
High Point Open Ranch: Princess Ice and Erika Collins Sterling, champion; Shine Mega Shine and Kate Zachrich, reserve.
High Point Amateur Ranch: Hocuss Pocus and Lacy Watson, champion; Princess Ice and Erika Collins Sterling, reserve.
High Point Select Ranch: Best Elegant Impulse and Donna Tucker, champion; Shine Mega Shine and Kate Zachrich, reserve.
High Point Youth Ranch: Dunnit This Way and Kaylee Muglach, champion; Dualling For Stars and Kaylee Muglach, reserve.
High Point Open Fences: That Is That and Michael Schultz, champion; Hot Dig It and Rebecca Edwards , reserve.
High Point L1 Amateur Fences: Good Thing Im Best and Caroline Leeth, champion; Truly Priceless Flirt and Tara Chappell, reserve.
High Point L1 Youth Fences: Winsome Ona Princess and Ava Palmeri, champion; Its All About Krome and Emma Bartlett, reserve.
High Point Amateur Fences: That
Is That and Katelyn Schultz, champion; Sweet N Fabulous and Sarah Chabot, reserve.
High Point Select Fences: Good By Me and Gretchen Ingersoll, champion; Do You Have A Winner and Kimberly Burritt, reserve.
High Point Youth Fences: Winsome Ona Princess and Ava Palmeri, champion; Its All About Krome and Emma Bartlett, reserve.
Gulf Coast High Point Champions
High Point Senior Horse: Whata Moonlite Ride, owned by Isabella
D’Onofrio, champion; Bleu Ivy, owned by Whitney Barrs, reserve.
High Point Junior Horse: Up N The Ante, owned by Mr. & Mrs. William Wilkes, champion; Doubl Or Nothin, owned by Rick Smith, reserve.
High Point Green/L1 Horse: Always The Best RV, owned by Tali Terlizzi,champion; Just Call Me RL, owned by Karen Ciny Vanelswyk, reserve.
High Point L1 Amateur: InvitedByWillyNelson and Jullian Zidian, champion; A Goodbar To Stoppin s
and Debra Ramirez, reserve.
High Point Amateur: Whata Moonlite Ride and Isabella D’Onofrio, champion; Moonlite Cruiser and Kaleena Weakly, reserve.
High Point L1 Select:Shootin The Breeze & Marcie McClenon, champion; DreaminForJacks and Lorrie Prtridge, reserve.
High Point Select: Hez Blazin Trouble and Susan Wilson, champion; The Best Is Yet To B and Renee Howes, reserve.
High Point L1 Youth:The Roan Show and Molly Mullady, champion; Impulsive Willy and Zoey Furman, reserve.
High Point Youth 13 & Under: Heza Flatliner and Kendall Lavelle, champion; The Roan Show and Molly Mullady, reserve.
High Point Youth 14-18: ItzOnly Make Believe and Alexandra Rippeon, champion; Batt Attitude and Abigail Eddy, reserve.
High Point Small Fry: Ima Southern Loper and Harper Barre, champion; A Certain Faith and Elizabeth Cook, reserve.
High Point L1 Youth Walk/Jog: Ima Southern Loper and Harper Barre, champion; Mo Money and Tenley Grimes, reserve.
High Point L1 Amateur Walk/Jog: Sexy Suggestions and Ashley Zimlich, champion; KM Easy Come Easy Go and Janet Sandvick, reserve.
High Point Open Ranch: Surprising Whiz, owned by Robert Stein, champion; Xtra Wimpys Catalyst, owned by Erika Sterling, reserve.
High Point Amateur Ranch: Spinn The Wheel and Lacy Watson,champion; Hocuss Pocus and Lacy Watson, reserve.
High Point Select Ranch: Blazing Hot Moves and Jaye Cooke, champion; Shine Mega Shine and Kathryne Zachrich, reserve.
High Point Youth Ranch: LikeABoxOfChocolate and Gracellyn Allen, champion; Hollywoods Got Guns and Emily
Oliver, reserve.
High Point Open Fences: DGS Vintage, owned by Robin Degraff, champion; DGS Dont Tell Tales, owned by Pam Stubbs, reserve.
High Point L1 Amateur Fences: One Al Of An Amen and Stephanie Smith, champion; Annies Last Romance and Ashley Pincheon, reserve.
High Point L1 Youth Fences: Next Tangible Asset and Ava Palmeri, champion; Inspiring Details and Bailey Concannon, reserve.
High Point Amateur Fences: Krowd Pleaser and Alexis Jessee, champion; My Next Edition and Hana Thomas, reserve.
High Point Select Fences: Good By Me and Gretchen Ingersoll, champion; Do You Have A Winner and Gretchen Ingersoll, reserve.
High Point Youth Fences: Zane Gray and Isabella Agliano, champion; Inspiring Details and Bailey Concannon, reserve.
Super Sires
In addition to AQHA and futurity compeition, the Super Sires program presented cash and prizes at the Florida Gulf Coast Circuit in Level 1/Green Junior Trail and Level 1/Green Senior Trail.
Level 1/Green Junior Trail: Southern Shock, owned by Brittanie Norman and shown by Austin Lester, champion, $1,200; Ladee Luck, owned by Mr. & Mrs. Willam Wilkes and shown by Carly Veldman Parks, reserve, $800.
Level 1/Green Senior Trail - Always The Best RV, owned by Tali Terlizzi and shown by Amanda Ringer, champion, $960; One Hot Sports Model, owned by Vivienne King and shown by Joe Blair, reserve, $640.
For additional information on the Florida Gold or Gulf Coast Circuit, including complete results visit www.anequineproduction.com.
It’s Convention Time
PHBA to gather in Tulsa March 5-8 to plan for the future
Text Corrine S. Borton
Members of the Palomino Horse Breeders of America are invited to attend the association’s annual convention, scheduled this year for March 5-8, at the Marriott Hotel Southern Hills & Ruffin Event Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Discussion will center around the World Show and proposed rules changes, while committee reports will focus on what members have been busy with this past year.
CONVENTION SCHEDULE
Wednesday, March 5
• 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. – Registration Desk
• 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.– Judges Committee (executive session)
• 1 to 3 p.m. – Executive Board/ Show Management
• 3 to 4 p.m. – Youth Scholarship & Education Fund (executive session);Trainers Crisis Fund/Professional Horseman; Benefit Auction
• 4 to 5 p.m. – Challenged Horseman Program
• 7 to 8 p.m. – Heritage Foundation Thursday, March 6
• 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. – Registration Desk
• 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. – PHBA Executive Board
• 8 to 9 a.m. – Welcome & Delegate Orientation
• 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. – Nominating & Hall of Fame (executive session)
• 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. – ByLaws and General Rules; APA/Membership; Recreational Riding Program
• 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. – Show Rules (first session)
• Noon to 1:30 p.m. – Lunch 1 to 2:30 p.m. – Marketing/Public Relations/Web; Working Horse and Ranch Versatility; Awards
• 2:30 to 4 p.m. – Amateur Board Selection Interviews
• 3 to 4 p.m. – Animal Welfare and Public Policy; Finance, Management,
Resources & Sponsorship (executive session); Palomino Bred Ad HOC
• 6 to 10 p.m. – Welcome Reception Friday, March 7
• 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. – Registration Desk
• 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. – PHBA Executive Board
• 8 to 9:30 a.m. – World Show Advisory Committee; P3-Palomino Performance Program; Handbook Review Ad HOC
Shirley Stuart 15253 E Skelly Dr. Tulsa, OK 74116 Phone:(918) 438-1234 assist@palominohba.com
HEADQUARTERS
PALOMINO HORSE BREEDERS OF AMERICA
The international organization known as the Palomino Horse Breeders of America (PHBA) was formed in 1941 to collect, record, preserve the purity of blood, and improve the breeding of Palomino horses. The original concept began in 1938 due to the efforts of numerous dedicated horsemen and horsewomen.
MISSION STATEMENT
To record and preserve the pedigree of the Palomino Horse while maintaining the integrity of the breeds. To provide beneficial services for its members which enhance and encourage Palomino ownership and participation. To generate growth of PHBA membership via the marketing, promotion, advertising and publicity of the Palomino Horse.
ABOUT PHBA
The Palomino Horse Breeders of America, Tulsa, Oklahoma was formed in 1941 as a member owned, non-profit organization for the purpose of registering and improving horses standing between 14 and 17 hands tall, and exhibiting body color, with variations from light to dark, of a newly minted U S fourteen karat gold coin. There are more than 38 Affiliate Palomino Associations network associations on the state or local basis. APAs host horse shows, fundraising projects, clinics, futurities and family activities.
Palomino horses registered with American Quarter Horse, American Paint Horse Association, American Holsteiner Horse Association, Pinto Horse Association of America, Appaloosa Horse Club, Jockey Club (Thoroughbreds) American Saddle Horses, Arabians, Half Arabs, Morgans, Mountain Pleasure Horses, Morabs, Quarabs, Missouri Fox Trotters and Rocky Mountain Horses are eligible for registration with PHBA provided the horse meets color and white rules.
PHBA maintains records on more than 88,000 horses and owners, more than 250,000 horse show entries, and over five hundred horse shows. PHBA provides recreational, financial, and competitive rewards for every age group, extending more than 900 approved classes for amateurs, novice/amateur, youth and open programs. Classes range from halter to jumping, horsemanship to driving, cutting to saddle seat, pole bending to reining, and barrel racing.
OFFICIAL PUBLICATION
The PHBA office is located at 15253 East Skelly Dr. Tulsa, Ok 74116 | Phone:(918) 438-1234 | Fax: (918) 438-1232 | E-Mail: yellahrses@palominohba.com
InStride Edition Magazine is the official publication of the Palomino Horse Breeders Of America. InStride Edition includes information on the association’s people, horses and programs. The magazine is distributed to PHBA members and approved judges. For information on advertising in the PHBA section or to suggest story ideas email Executive Editor Corrine S. Borton at CorrineBorton@InStrideEdition.com. You can also visit www.InStrideEdition.com.
Association as strong as the people behind it
I hope everyone stays warm and safe as 2025 begins. As I close out 2024, I am reminded of all the wonderful things happening in the life of the Palomino Horse Breeders Of America (PHBA). The World Championship horse show continues to be a success and offers more diverse classes and opportunities for exhibitors with more than 2,100 entries in 2024. The Second Annual Specialty Showmanship Class was held, and the Ranch Classes continue to grow and become more popular. Expanding on that, we included AQHA Ranch classes and will continue those in 2025.
In September, we reluctantly accepted Terri Guthrie's resignation as PHBA’s General Manager. For over 14 years, Guthrie has been our association's face and driving force. I want to thank her for her dedication and support and wish her well in her new endeavors. However, this led to the promotion of Shirley Stuart to this role in November. With her 12 years of experience in the Equine Association Industry, Stuart has been able to hit the ground running and dug in and done a fantastic job making sure the Association didn’t miss a beat. We thank her and are excited to see her grow in this new role.
The New Year always brings new possibilities. The show season is already underway; in January, the Dixie Nationals Color Bonanza is held in Jackson, Mississippi, and then on to the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo in February. We hope everyone has safe travels and starts strong for the 2025 show season.
In March, be sure to meet us in Tulsa, Oklahoma, for the 84th Annual PHBA National Convention. The fun will start on Wednesday, March 5, with various committee meetings throughout the week, where national directors and committee members will discuss potential rule change proposals, equine industry news, and events, as well as the business of the association. The week will be wrapped up on Saturday, March 8, with our National Directors Annual Board Meeting in the morning and conclude with the PHBA Year End Annual Awards Banquet that evening. We hope you will get your registration soon to be a part of the decision-making and direction of our PHBA Association for 2025. The next deadline for convention registration is February 25th. Visit the PHBA website to download the form and for more information on the Annual Convention.
Going into the last few months as President of PHBA, I want to reach out to all those serving in a leadership role in PHBA and or in your local association and say thank you. Your hard work, passion, and dedication do not go unnoticed. Thank you for all you do for PHBA and the Palomino Horse Family. Our association would not exist, let alone thrive, without you.
Amateur board dedicated to helping members
It’s that time of the year. Dropping temperatures, breeding season and sleepless baby watch. I hope everyone had a great time over the holidays and can now look forward to the coming show season.
The Palomino Horse Breeders of America (PHBA) will host its National Convention March 5-8 at the Marriott Southern Hills in Tulsa, Oklahoma. National Directors and members will be traveling to participate. There will be committee meetings and entertainment provided as the Webb Dalton Band is returning for your enjoyment. This two time Josey Award winner has worked with some of country record’s greats.
Rule change proposals will be discussed and decisions made. There will be good times, good food and fun times to be had by all. The deadline for registration is coming up soon. Members are working very hard to make both the convention and the world show an exceptional experience for everyone. Keep tuned to the PHBA website for more information as it becomes available.
Over the past year I have been privileged to work with a fantastic group of individuals that make up the Amateur Executive Board with the sole purpose of promoting PHBA and the Amateur Associations.
The Amateur Executive Board is always available to its members, if we can’t answer your questions, we will find someone who can and get back to you. If you feel that you would like to be considered for a position on the board, interviews will offered at the convention. You would need to sign up in the convention office prior to that Thursday.
I have been a PHBA member for almost 40 years. More than half my life. I have been privileged to meet people from all walks of life. I have many friends, gotten more than a few thrills and shed a few tears along the way. It’s so nice to see the kids grow up and bring their little ones in tow. The evolution of the Challenged Horsemen Program has been so heartwarming.
We are all brought together by the golden Palomino horse. The sparkle of that yellow coat and the snow white mane and tail is awesome. Some of us older folks first learned about the color when black and white TV’s evolved to color and we watched as Roy Rogers rode into our hearts on Trigger. Most do not know thePalomino horse was a favorite of the Spanish royals in days long gone.
Now is the time to think about class sponsorships and ads for the world Show Program. These are what helps us pay for the expenses of the world show and allows us the opportunity to show our horses in the beautiful Springfield Coliseum in July. Please download the form off the web site and send it in.
I wish everyone a safe, prosperous year with good health. I would like you to welcome our incoming Amateur President, Mrs. Susie Arbo from Missouri.
Youth
Board’s focus is on annual convention
Happy New Year everyone!
I am so excited to see what 2025 has in store for us. As we begin slowly preparing for the new show season I would like to update you on what the Youth Board has been up to.
Starting the new year we have done lots of prepping for the Palomino Horse Breeders of America (PHBA) National Convention, which is slated for March 5-8 at Tulsa, Oklahoma. My board members have been eager to make this a convention to remember. We have planned to have our Art Contest again this year and allow our winners from each age division to be entered into the live auction. My committees and I are also preparing baskets to auction of as well. They will come up with themes and put their baskets together at convention.
I gave each member on my board a challenge to call around four to eight people for sponsorships. They were given suggestions from a spreadsheet. By doing this they were able to get class and program book ad sponsorships for our 2025 World Championship Show.
I’m pleased to announce PHBA has been accepted into Midwest Horse Fair again this year. This is one of the biggest all-breed equestrian events in the nation and a great opportunity to promote the PHBA name. We are able to present demos and have had the honor of leading the grand march the past couple of years. One of our board members has filled out her application to hopefully do this again this year. Our booth being there allows us to talk face to face with people about PHBA and how to register their horses. Overall this has been a major opportunity to grow our organization.
For the first year the Amatuer and Youth boards are working together on a big fundraiser to increase teamwork and cooperation between the two groups. I and two of my board members are planning with the Amatuer president and president-elect to make this a successful event for both groups. At convention this year I plan to take all the youth that attend to Andy Bs for a fun activity. My board members and I will encourage cooperation between all the kids and have an enjoyable evening.
To find out more about what the Youth is up to I encourage you to take a look at our PHBA Youth Facebook page. We recently posted our scholarship application for any youth interested.
Dill� Vaughn
For this Kentucky trainer the focus is on teaching horses to learn
Text Corrine S. Borton
Photos Courtney B. Ament, Shane Rux & Larry Williams
Start every day as a new day.
It’s a valuable piece of advice professional trainer Dillon Vaughn got some time ago and he says it’s words he tries to live by.
“This helps me stay fresh and keep from dwelling on things that happened the day before,” he explained.
That comes in handy when your success depends upon the development of young horses.
Vaughn grew up in Gastonia, North Carolina and his grandparents, who lived nearby, always had horses.
“Although I didn’t ride, I always had an interest in horses,” he said. “One day, my good friend, Conner Smith, invited me to the barn where he boarded his horses and it was all over from there. I began taking riding lessons and jumped into the sport head first.”
After high school, Vaughn attended St. Andrews University in Laurinburg, North Carolina, where he was a member of the school’s IHSA Equestrian Team.
He completed his bachelor’s degree in Equine Business Management in 2018 and went to work as an assistant for Cole and Liz Baker in Dunnellon, Florida. In 2022 Vaughn moved to Purcell, Oklahoma to work as an assistant trainer for Gil Galyean Quarter Horses.
Then in January he established his own training business, working out of Wallace Farms, in Leitchfield, Kentucky. The facility includes a 17-stall show barn, indoor and outdoor arenas, a walker, multiple round pens, three large turnout pastures, as well as a large storage barn, situated on 22 acres in Grayson County.
“We specialize in training and developing Western Pleasure futurity horses,” Vaughn said. “We do everything from starting 2-year-olds to showing aged horses.”
Vaughn’s training philosophy centers around the foundation.
“I believe horse training is about teaching a horse how to
ttt
Dillon Vaughn is pictured on the opposite page (center) being congratulated by Bill Cox, owner of No Doubt I M Sleepn, after winning the AQHA Level 2 World Show award in the 2-YearOld Open Western Pleasure and (across the top) with No Doubt I M Sleepin and J Loww at the 2023 Congress and Million To 1 at the NSBA World Show. On this page Vaughn is pictured with his girlfriend Laska Anderson (top) and below that (left) with Gil, Becky and Brody Galyean and Justin Melvin for Brody’s senior prom; and with (left to right) Laska, his brother, Jarret, sister-in-law, Jessie; and parents Sheryl and Jeff, at his brother’s wedding.
learn,” he said. “I really enjoy the process of taking a horse from the beginning and watching them begin to understand and progress.”
Another important part of Vaughn’s program is coaching youth and amateur or non-pro competitors.
“I think it is just as important to help our riders progress as it is for our horses to progress,” he said. “We can’t expect the plane to fly without a pilot.”
Since beginning his professional career, Vaughn has been instrumental in the success of many successful show horses, including:
• Consider Me Best, a 2010 bay mare by RL Best of Sudden out of Kiss My Sweetimpulse, his first futurity win at the Big A/Show For Dough Futurity;
• Million to 1, a 2015 red roan gelding by VS Flatline out of A Certain Illusion, National Snaffle Bit Association (NSBA) World Champion Limited Open Maturity;
• Why Don’t You Kiss This, a 2010 bay gelding by Kissin The Girls out of Certainly A Classic, Breeders Championship Futurity (BCF) 4 to 6-Year-Old Limited Open Western Pleasure Champion at the NSBA World Show;
• No Doubt I M Sleepn, a 2021 bay gelding by No Doubt Im Lazy out of Sleep Machine, AQHA Level 2 World Champion 2-Year-Old Open Western Pleasure and Reserve Congress Champion Maiden 2-Year-Old Limited Open Western Pleasure;
• J Loww, a 2020 bay mare by Sloww Motion out of Made By J, Congress Champion 3-Year-Old Limited Open Western Pleasure.
Vaughn said the best part about being a horse trainer is getting to wake up every day and do something he loves.
“I get to be around horses all day, who wouldn’t love it?” he asked.
The hardest part?
“It becomes our lifestyle,” he explained. “And because of that it is sometimes hard to be able to maintain a good work-life balance.”
In 2023 at the AQHA World Show Vaughn met Laska Anderson, daughter of AQHA judge Sissy and Wallace Anderson, owners of Wallace Farms. They started dating and have been together ever since.
When he is not riding or at a show Vaughn enjoys spending time with his friends and family, hunting, fishing, riding motorcycles and building things.
“If I wasn’t a horse trainer I would probably still be doing something outdoors and hands-on,” he said. “Maybe something like landscaping or construction because I love building things and I love cutting grass.”
You can reach Vaughn by calling (704) 214-2871 or via the Vaughn Quarter Horses Facebook page.
Trainer Profiles are part of InStride Edition’s editorial content. If you know someone who would make a good subject for a trainer profile email Corrine Borton, Editor, at: CorrineBorton@InStrideEdition.com.
Matt Bennett is pictured on this page with his new show partner, Made For The Game. On the opposite page he is pictured (left to right): riding as a youngster in the Seattle, Washington area; summer sailing in Seattle; getting
ready to show; and riding Made For The Game.
Ma� B�ne�
Looking forward to return to the show pen with Made For The Game
Text Corrine S. Borton Photos 831 Ranch Photography
Like so many competitors today, Matt Bennett has been horse crazy for as far back as he can remember. He grew up in a suburb of Seattle and started riding at the Mercer Island Saddle Club. He says he rode on his sister's coat tails at Sue Cumming Stables where he competed on the Pacific North West and Canada Appaloosa circuits in the 1980s.
“I hung up my spurs before college and took a long hiatus for education, career and life before dipping my toe back in riding three years ago,” he explained. “I've since dived in.”
Although he has leased horses in the past and has had the opportunity to ride and care for other horses over the years, he just recently purchased one of his own, with the assistance of his trainer, Erica Owen of Owen Performance Horses at the Almosta’ Ranch in Scottsdale, Arizona.
“It was an extensive search for the perfect Western Pleasure horse,” he explained. “My trainer posted on social media an ‘in search of’ that included my necessary parameters.”
One of the responses came from Ohio professional trainer Zach Favorite, for Made For The Game (G), a 2021 chestnut gelding, sired by Machine Made out of Best Game In Town.
“After some coordination between the seller and my trainer, and a pre-purchase exam, we flew out to Cincinnati to try him out,” Bennett said. “He was perfect, and we agreed on a sale later that day.”
Bennett and G will compete this year in Amateur Select Western Pleasure at the Arizona Sun Circuit and Arizona Fall Championship, as well as some other AQHA events.
“He’s a sweetheart and loves playing with the gelding posse in the big turnouts,” he said.
Bennett said his show partner is already well
trained for the Western Pleasure class and that is the event he is focused on for now. Next will be Western Riding, which will be new for both of them.
“I like the flow and grace of the horses and riders when they make western pleasure look easy,” he said. “The same rational goes for Western Riding.”
Bennett said he has not been back in the show pen long enough to offer suggestions on what the industry can do to attract new members but he did say that he knows that there are many riders, like himself, who have been out of it for years and are looking for opportunities to ride again.
“I was lucky that Erica Owen was able to offer a performance horse for lessons before I made the commitment a couple years later to buy,” he said.
Bennett is a 1991 graduate of Evergreen State College and University of Washington, where he majored in Environmental Science, earning both a Bachelor of Science and Masters degree. He is a Supervisory Biologist at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers – Seattle District Regulatory Branch. He won supervisor of the year for the Seattle District Army Corps of Engineers.
“I work remote from my residence in Arizona,” he explained. “I supervise biologists responsible for making permit decisions for proposed work or activities in water (oceans, harbors, lakes, rivers, streams and wetlands). We ensure compliance with environmental laws including those related to clean water and navigation, as well as ensuring the agency upholds its tribal treaty trust responsibilities.”
Bennett and his partner of 12 years, Dr. Mike Hayden, live primarily in Scottsdale but also keep a place in Seattle.
Amateur Profiles are part of InStride Edition’s editorial content. If you know someone who would make a good subject for an Amateur profile email Corrine Borton, Editor, at: CorrineBorton@InStrideEdition.com.
BUZZ
WEB
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(IN) LIFE
The American Quarter Horse Foundation recently announced the promotion of Laura Owens to the position of director of Foundation programs. Owens, who has been on the Foundation team since 1999, is also celebrating her 25th year as an employee of the American Quarter Horse Foundation. Her duties are vast in that she oversees all Foundation programs including scholarships, equine research and equine-assisted services grants, Hall of Fame nominations and AQHA support programs.Owens began working at AQHF as a customer service representative for the Museum. Over the years, she has been involved in every aspect of the Foundation’s work. She holds a degree in biology from West Texas A&M University and is a recent graduate of the Women in Leadership program of Texas A&M UniversityTexarkana.
(IN) DEATH
AMERICAN PAINT HORSE ASSOCIATION
MADISON BROWN, GSPHYC CAPTURE AjPHA YOUTH MEMBER AND CLUB OF THE YEAR TITLES FOR 2024
Madison Brown, a college freshman from South Haven, Minnesota, is the 2024 AjPHA Youth Member of the Year. The Garden State Paint Horse Youth Club demonstrated outstanding efforts in 2024 to earn the AjPHA Club of the Year title, as well.
AjPHA Youth Member of the Year
The AjPHA Youth Member of the Year highlights a wellrounded individual who embodies the spirit of community involvement, volunteer work, scholarship and leadership. As the 2024 winner, Madison wins a custom Gist Silversmiths trophy buckle and $1,000 scholarship.
Ed Mayfield Jr., a longtime APHA judge and Judge Emeritus Award recipient from Eagle Point, Oregon, died Dec. 13. He was 93. A horseman from the start, Mayfield attended Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and earned all-around cowboy honors as part of their rodeo team. After marrying Joan Knight in 1955, Mayfield and his family moved to southern Oregon, where he managed and later purchased the Double D Ranch in Eagle Point. Mayfield was a respected rancher, breeder, trainer and judge. He began judging for APHA in 1970 and retired in 2018. Ed was honored with the APHA Judge Emeritus Award for his service in 2019. He judged the APHA World Championship Show on several occasions and served as its equipment steward.
An AjPHA member since 2009, Madison (pictured above) has been an active participant in the Minnesota North Star Youth Paint Horse Club and the Minnesota Junior Paint Horse Association. She’s helped as a club leader in both organizations and participated in showing and fund-raising events. Moreover, Madison has served as an AjPHA national director, zone representative and Youth Executive Committee member for the last five years. In APHA competition, Madison has won Youth Versatility and Youth Champion titles, placed on the year-end Top 20 list and earned multiple Zone Award and Honor Roll titles.
Outside of AjPHA, Madison participated in FFA horse judging and was her chapter’s treasurer. She was also an active 4-H member and varsity letter-earner for the Minnesota High School Equestrian Association. Madison enjoys serving her community in various volunteer roles and always looks for ways to promote Paint Horses. Currently, Madison is a student athlete at the University of Minnesota–Crookston, riding for the school’s National Collegiate Equestrian Association and Intercollegiate Horse Show Association teams.
AjPHA Youth Club of the Year
The AjPHA Club of the Year award recognizes outstanding regional clubs that provide an educational and social organization for Youth members who share a common interest in Paint Horses. The Garden State Paint Horse Youth Club is led by Niki Hetzell, and she says members worked hard all year toward the award. Efforts included hosting a No Bling Fling Youth and Amateur show to help encourage new exhibitors, hosting fundraising events, volunteering at GSPHC shows, making blankets to benefit a local neonatal care unit, collecting donations for animal shelters and hosting educational clinics. The New Jersey-based club previously earned the Club of the Year title in 2021 and 2022. As the Club of the Year winner, Garden State Paint Horse Youth Club receives a $1,000 donation from APHA.
WINTER HOOF CARE by Luke Bass, DVM
Snow and muddy conditions present special chaallenges for your horse’s feet
As many horse owners know, mid-winter brings snow and other forms of precipitation that often continue through the spring – and that can mean wet and muddy conditions for our equine companions. For horses living outside, these conditions can lead to mud clods and ice balls in the hooves. Prolonged wet conditions can soften feet, making them susceptible to more serious problems, including hoof wall separation (white line disease), thrush, and sole abscesses.
COMMON WINTER HOOF PROBLEMS
Thrush - This anaerobic bacterial infection slowly invades the hoof tissue. Thrush is characterized by black, malodorous necrotic, or dead material in the central or collateral sulci of the frog – the grooves adjacent to and in the middle of the triangle-shaped frog. Early stages of thrush affect only superficial tissues and do not cause lameness. But if thrush is not treated promptly and properly, the infection can advance into sensitive tissues and internal structures of the foot, such as the digital cushion, hoof wall, and heel bulb, which can lead to lameness.
wall, such as hoof wall separation. Because white line disease deteriorates portions of the hoof wall, and the hoof wall is further compromised by treatment that requires debridement or resection (removal of the infected hoof wall), secondary problems can occur.
If caught early, white line disease is very manageable. The horse can return to work without a layoff. However, if the fungi and bacteria are allowed to make headway in the hoof wall, treatment can become much more problematic, requiring special shoes, boots, or even a cast, not to mention several months to grow out the hoof.
Prolonged wet conditions can soften feet, making them susceptible to more serious problems, including hoof wall separation (white line disease), thrush, and sole abscesses.
The main factors causing thrush are excessive hoof contact with moisture and lack of regular foot care, either of which can occur when snow, rain, and cold temperatures cause some owners to be less diligent about mucking the stall, picking out hooves, or turning out horses for exercise. Although less common, poor hoof conformation can predispose horses to thrush, even when they live in clean, dry conditions.
In most cases, thrush is preventable by maintaining dry footing, clean hooves, and regular turnout or exercise. If you detect signs of thrush, ask your veterinarian about safe treatment options, such as scrubbing the hooves with disinfectant solution and applying thrush treatment to the frog. For horses whose underlying hoof conformation predisposes them to thrush, good management techniques include regular trimming of the foot and frog.
White Line Disease - Characterized by progressive hoof wall separation that occurs in the non-pigmented horn of the hoof at the junction between the stratum medium (middle layer of the hoof capsule) and laminar horn. This separation is from a compromise in the white line area of the hoof where anaerobic bacteria (those that don’t like oxygen) or fungi set up shop and lead to disease of the white line and can lead to a nagging lameness. The separation is usually progressive, and it typically involves the toe and quarters of the hoof.
White line disease is an opportunistic disease, meaning the pathogens take advantage of a weakened or compromised hoof
Movement will also promote blood circulation that can increase hoof growth. If the horse is comfortable moving around and is not in pain, it’s recommended that he be put on some kind of exercise program, turnout, hand walking, or light riding.
One of the best ways to help your horse avoid contracting white line disease is by practicing proper hoof hygiene. Simple steps such as picking your horse’s feet daily can help reduce the risk of contracting this potentially debilitating disease. Extreme weather conditions are thought to increase the hoof’s uptake of these bacteria or fungi. During overly wet or drought conditions, greater care should be taken to ensure proper hoof hygiene.
Snowballs or Iceballs - Snowballs are another serious winter issue for horse owners to consider. When snow packs into the hoof and accumulates, your horse might literally end up walking with small mounds of snow under each hoof. Besides being uncomfortable, those snowballs can lead to instability and put your horse at risk for damaging slips and falls. Adding regular pads, anti-snowball pads, or rim pads to your horse’s shoes can help prevent trouble.
Anti-snowball pads, sometimes known as “poppers,” have a hollow, convex dome or “bubble” in the middle. As snow packs in and pushes against the dome, the dome pushes back and “pops” the snow out before it can accumulate. Because the anti-snowball pads cover the entire bottom of the hoof, they can be particularly useful if your horse is flat-footed, lacks
WINTER HOOF CARE (continued)
vertical depth, or if you have reason to be concerned about sole bruising and abscesses.
While some traditional pads have packing between the pad and the sole, anti-snowball pads should not be packed, because that would interfere with the bubble’s popping ability. If you ride frequently on hard surfaces, such as roadways, realize that the bubble might wear down and lose its popping ability. Unlike anti-snowball pads, tube rim pads, also known as snow rim pads, don’t cover the entire sole. Instead, what looks like a piece of rubber tubing is riveted around the inside edge of the shoe before the shoe is nailed in place. When the horse moves, the tubing flexes, shoving out any snow around the shoes’ edges and preventing accumulation.
Shoes tend to aid snowballing, because snow typically begins to accumulate and pack in at the shoe’s edges. So if your horse goes barefoot, snowballing might be less of an issue. However, if your horse does have a snowball problem – or if you haven’t implemented any anti-snowballing tools then get hit by a sudden storm – you can try an oldtimer solution. Grease the bottom of your horse’s hooves with cooking oil, Pam spray, Vaseline, or a similar lubricant. This might prevent snow accumulation for a short period, but will require frequent application.
Sole Bruising and Abscesses - This time of year, it’s not uncommon for horse owners to report, “Yesterday my horse was perfectly sound, but today he won’t touch one foot to the ground. There’s no apparent injury or sign of a problem in his leg or hoof other than sudden, severe lameness. What could have happened?”
Hoof bruising occurs for many reasons, from thin soles or hoof imbalances that allow abnormal hoof impact to inadvertent horseshoe contact on the sole and riding or walking over rocky terrain. Bruised feet might require changes in the farrier’s approach to trimming and shoeing, and hoof pads or boots might also help protect your horse’s feet. A farrier can detect sole bruising and recommend appropriate therapy.
Hoof abscesses can occur after bruising or from penetrating wounds. The abscesses occur when bacteria get trapped beneath the hoof wall or sole, and then multiply. The bacteria create pus, which builds up and creates focal pressure. This can be quite painful, and a horse is often reluctant to bear any weight on the affected foot, especially the heel. Abscesses remain painful until the pus pockets drain and the pressure is relieved. The abscess often follows the path of least resistance to drain, bursting at the heel bulb, along the coronary band, or through the sole. Check for a smoldering abscess by pressing your finger on each heel bulb and around the coronary band. Feel for heat in the foot and hoof and for tissue softening; also note your horse’s pain response. If you suspect an abscess, have your veterinarian perform an examination including palpation, hoof testers, and possibly nerve blocks to localize the area of concern. They will then open the abscess to
establish drainage. It is rare but these sole abscesses can work their way into vital structures in the foot which can impact therapy and prognosis.
TIPS FOR TAKING CARE OF YOUR HORSE’S HOOVES IN THE WINTER
Winter can mean some extra planning and care to keep your horse’s feet in their best condition. But if you manage him properly, you’ll be able to enjoy these fly-free months despite the ice and chill, and can help your horse put his best hoof forward come spring.
Good hoof care includes:
• Frequent/daily hoof cleaning to remove rocks and mud
• Routine farrier care to keep the feet balanced, adequate sole for protection, and snug and uniform sole-wall junction
• Shoes for protection if a horse has thin soles or is prone to bruising
Be proactive in maintaining soundness by keeping the feet trimmed so they don’t get wall separations that can lead to white line disease and abscesses.
Dr. Luke Bass is a board-certified veterinarian within the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners. He also serves on the American Association of Equine Practitioners Board of Directors. He graduated from CSU in 2007 and then completed an equine internship at Pioneer Equine Hospital in Oakdale, CA. After completion of the internship, he remained at Pioneer Equine Hospital as an associate veterinarian focusing on ambulatory practice, reproduction, lameness, and dentistry. After spending a year on the western slope with Colorado River Veterinary Services, Dr. Bass and his family decided to return to CSU as a faculty member in Equine Field Service where he focuses on equine ambulatory medicine and teaching of undergraduate equine science and veterinary students. In his spare time, Dr. Bass loves spending time with his family and friends, playing golf, and enjoying outdoor sports.
EQUINE PROTECTION ACT by Katherine Jarve
Proposed regulations causing a stir amongst members of breed associations
If you haven’t already heard by now, the proposed federal Horse Protection Act (HPA) will require new action from event managers of all horse exhibitions, sales, and auctions in the United States. The new regulations which were to have been implemented Feb. 1, have been pushed back to April 2, but they have been causing a stir amongst members of breed associations and are likely to have a big impact on horse shows across the country. Of significance, horse show and event managers will now be required to notify the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) at least 30 days prior to their event regarding the presence of a designated inspector to assess horses in compliance with the Horse Protection Act rules.
By way of background, the Horse Protection Act is a federal law enacted in 1970 that was designed to regulate the Tennessee Walking Horse industry and prohibit the showing, sale, auction, exhibition, and/or transport of “sored” horses. The USDA defines soring as “the application of any chemical (e.g., mustard oil or diesel fuel), mechanical agent (e.g., overweight chains), or practice (e.g., trimming a hoof to expose the sensitive tissue) inflicted upon any limb of a horse, that can cause or be expected to cause the horse to suffer physical pain or distress when moving.” A horse that has been sored will pick up its feet higher and faster, which creates a highly animated gait. This high stepping gait is desired in specific breed classes, such as Tennessee Walkers.
Event managers and exhibitors should be prepared for potential USDA inspectors onsite and provide them with an inspection area upon request. Inspectors will be licensed veterinarians or individuals with extensive equine experience with a governmental agency. Inspections may include a physical examination of the horse, review of veterinary records, observation of vital signs, and removal of a shoe or other equipment when deemed necessary by the inspector. Horses can be detained for a period of time. A video demonstrating the inspection process is available on the APHIS website.
Additionally, inspectors will have unlimited access to offices, show records, barns, and arenas for the purpose of ensuring compliance with the HPA. Importantly, should an event manager choose not to request or hire an inspector, they can be liable for any HPA violations found at their show. Violations
This now opens up big government regulation and oversight to hundreds, if not thousands, of horse shows a year. The new regulations can encompass every horse show from the AQHA World Show down to a local 4-H competition.
under the Act can include possible criminal and civil penalties.
So, what does soring of Tennessee Walkers have to do with showing performance horses like Quarter Horses or Paints?
According to the new regulations, a lot. The revised rule states,
“Soring has been used almost exclusively in the training of certain Tennessee Walking Horses and racking horses to induce pain, resulting in an exaggerated gait that is valued in the show ring. However, the HPA’s prohibition against sored horses participating in shows, exhibitions, sales, and auctions extends to events involving all horse breeds.”
This now opens up big government regulation and oversight to hundreds, if not thousands, of horse shows a year. The new regulations can encompass every horse show from the AQHA World Show down to a local 4-H competition.
Show and event managers will be required to:
1. Provide notice to APHIS at least 30 days in advance of the event via mail or email.
2. Provide event updates 15 days in advance of the event
3. Report any violations of the Horse Protection Act within five days post-event
Notably, the new modifications cover nearly all equine activities, regardless of breed or discipline. The HPA regulations covers horse exhibitions, shows, and auctions, which include the “public display of horses.” Any class where speed is not the prime factor is scoring will be subject to the HPA regulations. For example, classes that are covered by the HPA include Halter, Showmanship, Western Pleasure, Horsemanship, Hunter Under Saddle, Equitation, Trail, Ranch Riding and Reining. Classes not covered include Jumping, Barrel Racing, and Working Cow Horse. Rodeo events, parades, and trail rides are also excluded from the HPA. Visit the APHIS website for guidelines.
Katherine Jarve is a partner at the Marlton, New Jersey law firm of Jarve Kaplan Granato Starr, LLC. She is licensed in New Jersey and Pennsylvania and maintains a practice in personal injury and civil litigation, including equine related issues. Katherine spent her childhood competing on the national AQHA show circuit. This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be legal advice. If you have a specific legal question or problem, consult with an experienced equine law attorney. Questions, comments or suggestions can be e-mailed to kjarve@nj-triallawyers.com.
ASSOCIATIONS
CHRIS BENEDICT APPOINTED (IN) NSBA NEWS
The American Quarter Horse Association has hired Chris Benedict as the AQHA director of officials. As the director of officials, Benedict will be responsible for overseeing the direction of the AQHA judges, stewards and drug-testing programs. He will work alongside the show department and judges committee members to provide industry-leading service and educational opportunities to advance the mission statement of the Association. Additionally, he will work to advance AQHA’s position as an industry leader while ensuring the integrity of its officials.
“I have been a life member of AQHA for a long time and the AQHA has been very good to my family and me,” said Benedict. “I’ve had a blessed judging career with many great people and think it is now time to give back. I am looking forward to my new position and helping the AQHA stay at the top of the industry. They have set the standard for judging and our goal is to keep it that way.”
Benedict brings 45 years of judging experience holding cards with the National Cutting Horse and National Reined Cow Horse associations, with 39 years of those years served as an AQHA all-around judge where he has officiated more than 30 AQHA world championship events. He has also been a trainer for the past 40 years, working with American Quarter Horses in various disciplines including Cutting and Working Cow Horse, Reining, all-around events, Roping and Halter.
Benedict served as the Pacific Coast Quarter Horse Association youth adviser, as well as NCHA president from 2010 to 2011. He was inducted into the NCHA Members Hall of Fame in 2018. He has trained several AQHA world champions and top-10 finishers in various disciplines. Benedict has overseen major AQHA and NRCHA events.
In addition to his judging and training career, Benedict actively serves on the AQHA Animal Welfare Commision. events and his
HALL OF FAME EXPANDS
NATIONAL SNAFFLE BIT ASSOCIATION ANNOUNCES NEW INDUCTEES
The National Snaffle Bit Association (NSBA) has announced the 2025 inductees into its Hall Of Fame. They include Kamanyawannadance in the Show Horse category; Goodbars Glamourgirl in the Breeding Horse – Mare category; Allocate Your Assets in the Breeding Horse – Stallion category; and Chris Cecil Darnell in the Individual category.
Kamanyawannadance, a black 2002 AQHA gelding by Hot Impulse and out of Wana Dancer (TB), has earned more than $115,000 in earnings and $97,162 in NSBA earnings as well 426.5 AQHA points. Bred by Sara Linnes prior to being purchased by Leslie Lange, ‘Collin’ was shown in Open Performance classes by Leslie and Open Over Fences events by Chuck Briggs and later Ryan Painter. Amateurs Peyton Bivins and Carly Estreich-Lueck also saw success with the gelding. He earned AQHA Open High Point Horse as well as individual class High Point titles as well as two AQHA World, 14 Reserve and 10 bronze championship awards in addition to 17 Quarter Horse Congress Championships and Reserve awards and 11 NSBA World, three Reserve and four bronze championships.
Goodbars Glamourgirl was a 1996 AQHA mare by Zippos Mr Goodbar and out of Mitos Magic Moment. Bred by Brian Fix, ‘Grace’ was purchased by Tim and Barb Delf as a 2- year-old. Grace produced multiple World Champions and of her 31 foals, 28 had AQHA points, earning 11,920.5 points and $113,552 in lifetime NSBA earnings, $56,808 in AQHA Incentive Fund earnings and $24,242 in AQHA World Championship earnings. Grace’s foals have won four AQHA World Championships, three Reserve Championships and seven bronze championships as well as nine European championships and 14 Quarter Horse Congress Championships. Her foals have
earned 14 NSBA World Championships, five Reserve and 11 bronze championships.
Allocate Your Assets was a 2000 AQHA stallion by Protect Your Assets and out of Kat Sass (TB). Al saw success with trainers Brian Isbell Garcia and Deanna Searles and Select Amateur owner Kathy Tobin, winning the Quarter Horse Congress and NSBA Gold and Silver divisions of the Two Year Old Hunter Under Saddle Futurity, the Scottsdale Classic and earning a reserve AQHA World Championship in Junior Hunter Under Saddle. However Al’s greatest contribution came when he turned his attention to the breeding shed. He became a million dollar sire, and the Leading Equistat Hunter Under Saddle Sire from 2017 to 2021 and the Leading Equistat English All Around Sire from 2017 to 2023. He was also the 2022 Top All Time Hunter Under Sire on AQHA’s QStallions platform. His progeny have earned 29,664 AQHA points including 98 Superior awards, 389 Register Of Merits, seven AQHA Champion awards, 33 AQHA World Championships and 20 AQHA Reserve World Championships.
In addition to Chris Cecil Darnell’s
experience as a horse show exhibitor and with her family’s Cecil Breeding Farm, Chris has volunteered her time at the regional, state and national level for many years. She is a past president, officer and board member of Northern Ohio Quarter Horse Association; president, first vice president, Congress Tri-Chairman and Executive Committee with the Ohio Quarter Horse Association and has assisted with numerous additions to the Quarter Horse Congress including Ranch, Level 1 Amateur Select and EWD and Small Fry division classes. Chris also served as NSBA president, treasurer, Executive Committee member and board member and assisted NSBA in developing changes to the rider earnings calculations and budgeting. She has served as an AQHA director for 13 years and chaired and served on a number of committees and task forces and the AQHA Show Council, as well as served as an AQHA team leader processing AQHA transfers, stallion reports and registrations. Chris also owns Simply Show Services LLC and provides show secretary services to shows across the nation. She was awarded the NSBA Jack Benson Award in 2012.
