Midwest Horse Source, March/April 2012 by Midwest Horse Source

VOLUME 1, NUMBER 2

MARCH/APRIL 2012

Midwest

Horse Source

Connecting all breeds and disciplines of the Midwest Horse Industry.

Inside This Issue... • Spring Pasture Precautions • Trailer Safety Tips • Illinois Pinto Princess: Janelle Raven • NARHA Youth Equestrian of the Year: Carly Renguette

PLUS... Calendar of Events News Roundup Training Tips Horse Properties Classified Ads & more!

Get the ‘Scoop’ on the True Cost of Feeding your Horse -page 10

2 MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE

MIDWEST

MARCH/APRIL 2012

CALENDAR

MARCH MARCH 24 – Mississippi Valley Morgan Horse Club sponsored Horse & Tack Consignments, IL State Fairgrounds Barn 14, Springfield, IL. Contact D. Horner 217/243-1293 MARCH 24 – New Volunteer Orientation Walk On, a Therapeutic Riding Program, Barrington, IL. Contact Brad Doweid 847/381-4231 or walkonfarm@comcast.net. MARCH 24-25 – USEF/USDF Dressage Show Indoors, Fields & Fences Equestrian Center. Gurnee, IL. Contact Anita Schadeck 847/244-4121. Visit http://www.fieldsandfences.com/events.html. MARCH 30 – BraveHearts Therapeutic Riding Volunteer Training, Harvard, IL. Contact Sarah Newland 815/765-2113 or snewland@braveheartsriding.org. Visit www.braveheartsriding.org. MARCH 31–Annual Illinois State Horse Judging Seminar with Chuck Schroeder, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL. For registration material and details contact Kevin Kline, kkline@illinois.edu.

APRIL APRIL 4 – Laura Amandis clinic, McCrae Farm, Grayslake, IL. Contact 847/546-5164 or visit jem60030@aol.com APRIL 6-8 – Alex Gerding Clinic, Touchstone Farm, Brooklyn, WI. Contact: Caryn Vesperman 608/455-2208 or touchstonefarm@gmail.com.

OF EVENTS

APRIL 7 – A Morning of Learning and Experiencing Young Living Essential Oils taught by Tenaya’s Sherry LaMarche, Sunflower Farms, Bristol, WI. Contact 847/343-6036. APRIL 8 – Enrique Martinez clinic, McCrae Farm, Grayslake, IL. Contact 847/546-5164 or visit jem60030@aol.com APRIL 14 – Fox Valley Saddle Association Warm-up Show, Hampshire, IL. Visit http://www.fvsa.org/. APRIL 14 – Salem Children’s Home 23rd Annual Charity Auction (8 a.m.) and Horse Auction (1 p.m.), Flanagan, IL. Contact 815/796-4561 or visit www.salem4youth.com APRIL 14-15 – Ray LaCroix hands-on training clinic, sponsored by the Wisconsin Arabian Horse Association, Mount Horeb, WI (near Madison). Contact Deb Alt 608/843-0191 or dalt5940@yahoo.com. Visit www.wisconsinarabian.com APRIL 15 – Fox Valley Saddle Association Open Show #1, Hampshire, IL. Contact: Sandy Kucharski. 815/568-6772. Visit http://www.fvsa.org/. APRIL 20 – Visible Riding Demonstration featuring Peggy Brown Advanced Level IV Centered Riding Instructor. Walk On, a Therapeutic Riding program. Barrington, IL. Contact Mary Illing 847/381-4231 or walkonfarm@comcast.net. APRIL 20-21 – 2000 Olympic Dressage Champion Christine Traurig, Sunflower Farms, Bristol, WI. Contact Alice Guzik 847/514-0652 or dressageclinics@gmail.com. Visit http://www.sunflowerfarms.com/.

APRIL 20-22 – Midwest Horse Fair, Madison, WI. Visit http://midwesthorsefair.com/. APRIL 21 – Illinois Paint Horse Show, Paint-O-Rama, **Gordyville USA, Gifford, IL. Contact Show Mgr: Lorna Wyrick 309/826-3643 or LWyrick270@ctechinternet.com. (**not a year-end high point qualifying show) Visit www.illinoispainthorse.com. APRIL 21-22 – Reining Clinic with Doug Bogart and Matt Lantz, Hampton Oaks Stables, Chillicothe, IL. Contact Carol Vols 309/798-2465 or visit www.ILRHAnews.com/News-Events.html APRIL 21-22 – Classical Dressage with Tom Poulin, Paddock Hills Equestrian & Event Center, Union, IL. Contact Lisa Habbley, 815/923-4755 or lisahabbley@foxvalley.net. Visit http://paddockhillsequestrian.com/. APRIL 23-24 – HUB Club carriage driving clinic with International champion, teacher and judge Muffy Seaton, Rockton, IL. Contact 262/745-9165 or kimcameron1975@aol.com. APRIL 27-29 – Clinic with Geoff Teall, Bull Run Equestrian Center in Elburn, Il. www.bullrunec.com. APRIL 27-29 – North American APASSIONATA Tour, Louisville, KY. Visit http://apassionata.com/usa/. APRIL 28 – Four Winds Equestrian Center, Look Into The Judges Eye Clinic with Dan Grunewald, Salem, WI. Contact Teri, General Manager, 262/537-2262 or teri@4wec.com. Visit www.4wec.com. APRIL 28 – Main Stay Therapeutic Riding Program New Volunteer Training, Richmond, IL. Contact Danielle 815/3829374. Visit www.mstrp.org. APRIL 28 – Dressage and Sport Horse Show, Linda Sorensen "L", Schooling Show, Sorensen Equestrian Park LLC, East Troy, WI. Contact Reid Sorensen - Show Manager 262/642-4111. Visit sorensenpark.com. APRIL 28– Basic H.E.A.R.T for animals class (Holistic Energetic Activation & Realignment Therapy )Tenaya Farms, Walworth, WI. Contact Ginger Romano 847/683-2966 or visit www.onaheartmission.com APRIL 28 & 29 – Green River Saddle Club Trail Ride, Amboy, IL. Contact Jack 815/970-1658. Visit http:// www.greenriversaddleclub.webs.com. APRIL 29 – IDCTA Schooling Show Series, Dressage & CT, Valley View Acres, Woodstock, IL. Contact Amber Bauman 815/455-3020 or valleyview8@yahoo.com. Visit http://www.idcta.org/schooling/. APRIL 29 – Green River Saddle Club Sausage Breakfast, Amboy, IL. Contact Jack 815/970-1658. Visit http:// www.greenriversaddleclub.webs.com.

MAY MAY 3-4 – ABHP Equine Professionals Clinic for hoofcare and bodywork professionals, co-taught by Dino Fretterd and Randy DeBond, Tenaya Farms, Walworth, WI. Visit www.dinosbest.info MAY 3-5 – Bettina Drummond Clinic, Sunflower Farms, Bristol, WI. Contact 262/857-8555. Visit http://www.sunflowerfarms.com/. MAY 4-5 – Dressage and Sport Horse Show, Marie Johnson "R" Dressage, USEF/USDF Recognized, Sorensen Equestrian Park LLC, East Troy, WI. Contact Reid Sorensen - Show Manager 262/642-4111. Visit sorensenpark.com. MAY 5 – Horse Owner/Trainer Clinic with Dino Fretterd, working on horse’s balance, Tenaya Farms, Walworth, WI. Visit www.dinosbest.info MAY 5 – Spring Grove Horse Show Pleasure Show, Horse Fair Park, Spring Grove, IL. Contact 815/ 675-6048. Visit www.springgrovehorseshow.com. MAY 5–Everything Equine Expo, (booth space for rent to sell items or promote your business) Fox Valley Saddle Association club grounds, Hampshire, IL. Contact Laurel 847/428-3298. MAY 5 – Derby Day and Open House at Ready Set Ride Therapeutic Recreation Facility, Plainfield, IL. Contact 815/4393659 or visit www.readysetride.org MAY 5-6 – Gaited Horse Clinic with Jim Walker, Hampshire, IL.. Visit www.jimwalkertraining.com MAY 6 – PTS (Place To Start) Hunter/Jumper Show, Fields & Fences Equestrian Center, Gurnee, IL. Contact Anita Schadeck 847/244-4121. Visit http://www.fieldsandfences.com/events.html.

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MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE 3

MIDWEST MAY 6 – IDCTA Schooling Show Series, Dressage & CT, Silverwood Farm, Camp Lake, WI. Contact Lisa Cannata 847-2356410 or Dressage@silverwoodfarm.net. Visit http://www.idcta.org/schooling/. MAY 6 – Four Winds Equestrian Center Open Horse Show, Salem, WI. Contact Teri, General Manager, 262/537-2262 or teri@4wec.com. Visit www.4wec.com. MAY 11-13 – Tallgrass Animal Acupressure Institute Intro to Equine and Small Animal Acupressure, Bridlewood Equestrian Center, Lake Geneva, WI. Contact Kathi Soukup 815/541-0308. Visit www.animalacupressure.com. MAY 11-13 – Janet Foy Clinic, Judds Green Meadows Farm, Belleville, WI. Contact Mary Hanneman 608/455-1037 or mahanneman@gmail.com. MAY 11-13 – Silverwood Dressage Shows, USEF/USDF recognized, Silverwood Farm, Camp Lake, WI. Contact Lisa Cannata 847/235-6410 or dressage@silverwoodfarm.net. Visit www.silverwoodfarm.net. MAY 12 – Open House Celebration and Erin Direks Clinic, Kelly's on 41 Equestrian Center, Wadsworth, IL. Contact: 847/951-0670 or info@kellyson41.com. Visit www.kellyson41.com. MAY 12 – Midwest Foundation Quarter Horse Assn. Mother’s “Neigh!” Day Open Horse & Pony Show Benefiting St. Jude Children’s Hospital, Diamond G Ranch & Western Store, Rochelle, IL. Contact Judy Thompson 608/934-5459. MAY 12 – IDCTA Schooling Show Series, Dressage & CT, Cliffwood Farm, Richmond, IL. Contact Kara Wintz 815/678-7000 or kwintz@cliffwoodfarm.com. Visit http://www.idcta.org/schooling/. MAY 12 – Kelly's on 41 Equestrian Center's 25th Anniversary Open House, Wadsworth, IL. Contact 847/662-5144. Visit www.kellyson41.com. MAY 13 – Victor Pozzo clinic and quadrille riding, McCrae Farm, Grayslake, IL. Contact 847/546-5164 or visit jem60030@aol.com MAY 13 – Green River Saddle Club Wagon Ride, Amboy, IL. Contact Jack 815/970-1658. Visit http:// www.greenriversaddleclub.webs.com. MAY 18-19 – Dressage and Sport Horse Show, Debbie RiehlRodriguez "S" Dressage, May 19*(SH) Debbie Riehl-Rodriguez "r" Sport Horse, USEF/USDF Recognized, Sorensen Equestrian Park LLC, East Troy, WI. Contact Reid Sorensen - Show Manager 262/642-4111. Visit sorensenpark.com. MAY 18-20 – 5 Corner Farm NIHJA Show, Silverwood Farm, Camp Lake, WI. Contact DonnaBattaglia showsecretarydonna@yahoo.com. Visit www.silverwoodfarm.net. MAY 18-21 – Alex Gerding Clinic, Touchstone Farm, Brooklyn, WI. Contact Caryn Vesperman 608/455-2208 or touchstonefarm@gmail.com. MAY 19 – Mid-State Morgan Show, Fox Valley Saddle Association in Hampshire, IL. Contact Kris Breyer briarpatcheast@aol.com or visit www.midstatesmorgan.org MAY 19 – Illinois Paint Horse Show, Double G Stables, Sterling, IL. Contact Show Mgr: Doug Nichols 309/275-8250 or nascarchamp52@yahoo.com. Visit www.illinoispainthorse.com. MAY 19–Harvard Milk Days Horse Show with Ranch Trail class, Milky Way Park, Harvard, IL. Contact 815/943-4614 or visit www.milkdays.com MAY 19–Spring Grove Horse Show Hunter Show, Horse Fair Park, Spring Grove, IL. Contact 815/ 675-6048. Visit www.springgrovehorseshow.com. MAY 19-20 – IDCTA Schooling Show Series, Mini Event & CT, Barrington Hills Riding Center, Barrington, IL. Visit http://www.idcta.org/schooling/. MAY 19-20 – Open and ABRA Shows, Wis-Ill Buckskin Dun Grulla Promoters, Showtime Arena Deerfield, WI. Visit www.wis-ill-bdgp.com. MAY 20 – Fox Valley Saddle Association Open Show #2, Hampshire, IL. Contact Sandy Kucharski 815/568-6772. Visit http://www.fvsa.org/. MAY 20 – Horse Promoters 46th Annual Horse Show, Francis Field, New Lenox, IL. Contact Lynn Richardson, 708/301-1005 or horsepromoters@gmail.com. MAY 20 – B-Bar-C Interstate Horse Promoters Annual Open Horse & Pony Spring Show (formerly the Interstate Palomino Horse Promoters, Assn.), Boone County Fairgrounds, Belvidere, IL. Contact 815/547-5629 or bcihp.club@gmail.com. MAY 20 – Bull Run Equestrian Center Horse Show Series, Bull Run Equestrian Center, Elburn, IL. Contact Lynda Zema 630 /3651376. Visit www.bullrunec.com. MAY 25-27 – Run O' The Mill Hunter Jumper Show (WHJA), Washinton Co. Fair Park, West Bend,WI. Contact Show manager Anne Bannister 262/510-3096 or annbannister@wi.rr.com. Visit www.rompc.org.

CALENDAR

OF EVENTS

MAY 25-27 & 28-29 – Martin Black Horsemanship & Cow Working Clinics, KarMik Acres, Woodstock, IL. Contact Karen or Mike 815/477-9704 or info@KarMikAcres.com. Visit www.KarMikAcres.com.

MAY 31-JUNE 3 – USEF 'A' Hunter/Jumper Show featuring a USHJA Hunter Derby, Fields & Fences Equestrian Center, Gurnee, IL. Contact Anita Schadeck 847/244-4121. Visit http://www.fieldsandfences.com/events.html.

MAY 26 – IDCTA Schooling Show Series, Dressage, Paddock Hills Equestrian Center, Union, IL. Contact Lisa Habbley 815/9234755 or lisahabbley@foxvalley.net. Visit http://www.idcta.org/schooling/.

JUNE

MAY 26–Spring Grove Horse Show Speed Show, Horse Fair Park, Spring Grove, IL. Contact 815/ 675-6048. Visit www.springgrovehorseshow.com. MAY 26 – Dressage and Sport Horse Show, Amy Walker-Basak "L", Schooling Show, Sorensen Equestrian Park LLC, East Troy, WI. Contact Reid Sorensen - Show Manager 262/642-4111. Visit sorensenpark.com. MAY 26-27 – MVMHC Society Horse Show, HOI Arena, Peoria, IL. Contact Diana 309/264-2268. Visit www.mvmhc.org. MAY 26-27 – Silverwood Dressage Shows, USEF/USDF recognized, Silverwood Farm, Camp Lake, WI. Contact Lisa Cannata 847/235-6410 or dressage@silverwoodfarm.net. Visit www.silverwoodfarm.net.

JUNE 1-2 – 2000 Olympic Dressage Champion Christine Traurig, Sunflower Farms, Bristol, WI. Contact Alice Guzik 847/514-0652 or dressageclinics@gmail.com. JUNE 1-3 – Sommers Gate Farms Trainers Workshop, Vandalia, IL. Contact Lea R. Sommers 618/644-5859 or tomleasomm@hometel.com. Visit www.sommersgatefarms.com. JUNE 2 – IDCTA Schooling Show Series, Dressage & CT, Marquis Stables, Belvidere, IL. Contact Amy Walker-Basak 815/547-9173 or walktalk1999@aol.com. Visit http://www.idcta.org/schooling/. JUNE 2 – Green River Saddle Club Night Speed Show, Amboy, IL.. Contact Joyce 815/973-1371. Visit http://www.greenriversaddleclub.webs.com. JUNE 2-3 - Illinois Paint Horse Show, Gordyville USA, Gifford, IL. Contact Show Mgr: Steve Pfaff 815/942-5542. Visit www.illinoispainthorse.com. JUNE 2-3 – Silverwood Dressage Shows, USEF/USDF recognized, Silverwood Farm, Camp Lake, WI. Contact Lisa Cannata 847/235-6410 or Visit www.silverwoodfarm.net.

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MARCH/APRIL 2012

Are you a friend yet?

Lead Lines

Bring your horse knowledge, to college!

by Lisa Kucharski, associate editor hen my mom and I pulled up alongside my dormitory, I should have anticipated the giggles and the judgmental glances. But the last thing I expected on move-in day was for someone to actually come up to me and say, “Wow! You must really have a lot of stuff if you brought a whole horse trailer for it!”

It’s amazing how many people at my college, Truman State University, don’t even know that we have a farm. Yes, I had quite a lot to haul into my room my sophomore year, but the trailer was actually for my horse. Truman offers the chance for students to board their horses on the farm each month and like many other colleges throughout the U.S., it has an equestrian team that is a member of the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA). Having been around horses my entire life, I knew that I couldn’t go four years without them. Throughout my 4-H career, beginning at age eight, I did everything from horse shows to horse bowl. I liked judging horses and I was even that weird kid who actually enjoyed public speaking. All of my teachers from elementary school to high school knew I had a passion for horses, as the topic frequently appeared in my essay papers and research projects. When it finally came time to get serious and search for colleges, I knew I had to find a school with an

My “roomies” at Truman State.

Case, sophomore year..

...and Maci, junior year.

equine program. At first I wanted to pursue a veterinary degree, like every other horse-kid I knew, but after discussions with several knowledgeable sources, I knew there was something else out there for me. I wanted to continue my involvement with horses, but I learned that the medical field wasn’t my only option. Thanks to the experiences I gained through 4-H, I decided to change directions and go for a communication degree. The beginning of the college experience is about growing up and finding the right career for you, but it doesn’t mean you have to grow out of something. I could never grow out of horses.

ing out of horses, this college program has really helped me grow in my knowledge, skills, and practical experience as an equine studies minor.

My involvement as a collegiate track athlete keeps me from competing in the IHSA, but I still brought my horse–and this year, a friend’s horse–to stay in touch with the thing that’s been such an integral part of my life. The best part about having an equestrian team is that it provides an equine program for the university. I get hands-on experiences with reproduction processes, see real-live models for learning the exercise physiology of a horse, and I even got to play with yearlings every day as part of a training class. Instead of grow-

Spring Events at Tenaya Farms W5255 Lakeville Road • Walworth,WI 53184 • 847/343-6036

H.E.A.R.T. Holistic Energetic. Activation & Realignment Therapy Empowering you to become the healer you always wanted or knew you could be...

Basic H.E.A.R.T. for Animals class Saturday, April 28 9a.m.-6 p.m.

at Tenaya Farms, Walworth, WI Would you like to help your family and your animals stay healthy while helping you keep your health care costs down? Would you like to learn a technique that allows you to easily choose which essential oil or herb or balancing method will work best for you? Check out H.E.A.R.T. a technique encompassing a collection of modalities. H.E.A.R.T. even allows you to incorporate your own complementary technique or therapy. When you leave this basic class, you will have enough information to balance reflex points, use therapeutic essentials oils, be introduced to self muscle testing, the importance of breathing and toning, and the importance of physically integrating the Body, Mind, Spirit. CLASS FEE: $125.00 Instructor: Dr. Sherry Bresnahan, founder and Sherry LaMarche, apprentice Hosted by: Ginger Romano 847/683-2966 To find out more and register, go to www.onaheartmission.com

I love when people ask me what I am studying at college. When I tell them that I am majoring in communication with a minor in equine studies, I always get the same response – “So, you’re going to be a horse whisperer?” No. I am going to do what I am doing right now. I have found a passion for horseindustry journalism. For all you college kids and graduating high schoolers, I hope you find something that you’re interested in and something you have a knack for and stick with them. Mix and match. You may leave your horse at home, but don’t leave your passion behind. Check out our website www.midwesthorsesource.com to see a map of tshe 370+ IHSA member colleges throughout the U.S. with equestrian programs and let us know on Facebook which college you picked!

ALSO...April 7, 2012...Don’t miss A Morning of Learning and Experiencing Young Living Essential Oils taught by Tenaya’s Sherry LaMarche at SUNFLOWER FARMS, Bristol, WI

May 3-4 ABHP Equine Professionals Clinic For Hoofcare and Bodywork Professionals Veterinarians and Equine Chiropractors co-taught by Dino Fretterd (Dino’s B.E.S.T.) and Randy DeBord (Hoof Savvy) Internationally recognized equine bodywork specialist, Dino Frettard, CEMT,BEST, along with Randy DeBord (Hoof Savvy) will be instructing a two day hands-on equine professionals clinic. Learn how to evaluate the synergy of hoof, TMJ, and the musculoskeletal system; and then to use Structural release and strengthening techniques to restore balance and soft tissue elasticity. INVESTMENT: $750 Money Back Guarantee to have an immediate impact on your work. Audit $375. Designed for Vets, Chiropractors, Equine Massage and Hoof Care Providers.

May 5 Horse Owner/Trainer Clinic with Dino Fretterd

Have Dino personally evaluate your horse’s balance and then learn how to strengthen and improve the horse’s posture and its performance. Come and see why Dino’s clientele ranges from World Cup and Olympic level competitor to backyard buddies. CLASS FEE: $250 AUDIT FEE: $125

Clinics held at Tenaya Farms For more information on both: www.dinosbest.info To register: 818/254-5330

MARCH/APRIL 2012

MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE 5

Features

Midwest Horse Source

Spring grazing precautions explained. by Karen E. Davison, PhD.

Editor/Publisher Sandy Kucharski

Green Grass: Approach with Caution

Cinderella Story Illinois youth, Janelle Raven, campaigns her Pinto horse to #1 in nation . by Lisa Kucharski

Associate Editor/Web Manager Lisa Kucharski Allied partner - Land o’ Lakes Purina Feed Paul Homb, Account Manager Published six times per year: January/February March/April May/June July/August September/October November/December

Trailer Hitch and Latch Check-up Trailer safety tips to start out the hauling season. by Heather Smith Thomas

Formulating Horse Feeds Various formulation strategies can produce very different results. by Karen E. Davison, PhD.

Columns

NEXT DEADLINE: April 25 4-Lead Lines

Advertising and Editorial Office Kucharski Publishing 18209 Collins Rd. Woodstock, IL 60098 815/568-6772 mwhorsesource@gmail.com

10-Checkerboard Chatter

15-The Winning Edge 17-Horse Werks

16-The Perfect Round

18-From The Side of the Trail

19-Better Safe Than Sorry...

Departments

Website: www.midwesthorsesource.com

2-Calendar

6-Midwest Round-Up

20-Corral Business Listings 21-Classified 22-Greener Pastures, Real Estate Listings Cover photo by Donna Downs “Paly in the dandelions”

Midwest

Horse Source

an allied partner with Pick up your FREE

COPY at area Feed Stores, Tack Shops, Trailer Dealers, Horse Facilities

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TO ADVERTISE: Call Sandy at 815/568-6772 or email: mwhorsesource@gmail.com

6 MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE

MARCH/APRIL 2012

NEWS • COVERAGE • UPCOMING EVENTS

MIDWEST ROUNDUP Equine Academy Challenge Series at Lamplight Equestrian –June 1-3, July 6-8 and September 7-9

n February 9, 2012, over 30 area horse trainers, barn owners and managers participated in a luncheon and brainstorming session at Pheasant Run Resort in St. Charles,IL for the purpose of supporting the Midwest Academy Challenge Series. The meeting was organized by Tommy and Debbie McIntyre, Purina® and Saddlers Row. Tommy McIntyre of Equine Productions Inc. facilitated the discussion, while Purina® Sales Specialists Kirk Dailey and Kindra Callahan collected the thoughts and ideas on chart stands for further discussion. The objective of the group was to organize a youth program to promote the riding industry in a fun and safe environment. The resulting program will be entertaining, enhance skills and encourage new families to participate in equine sports. The discussion produced many great ideas that will be implemented in this program. Equine Productions Inc. in cooperation with Lamplight Equestrian Center will produce three schooling shows at Lamplight Equestrian Center in 2012. The dates are June 1-3, July 6-8 and September 7-9 with the newly added Academy Challenge classes for all levels of riders on Sunday of each weekend event. The Academy Challenge will offer a chance for teams of four to compete at

their appropriate riding levels. Teams may consist of members from the same training barn or a combination of different barns. Local trainers and barns will have the opportunity to showcase their facilities through mini clinics and/or in a “Who’s Who” tent on the Lamplight grounds.

In addition to providing the Academy Challenge team shirts, Purina® and PMI® Nutrition along with their area dealers will sponsor family activities that may include “Kid’s Day” type events, pet trail classes, pet parades, stick horse races and much more.

For more information contact Tommy or Debbie McIntyre at Equine Productions Inc., Frances Bowers at Saddlers Row or Kirk Dailey/Kindra Callahan/Paul Homb your area Purina® Sales Specialists.

2012 Illinois State Horse Judges Seminar Featuring Chuck Schroeder –March 31, U of I, Urbana, IL

he annual Illinois State Horse Judges Seminar has been scheduled for March 31st, 2012 from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM at the University of Illinois. Registration and classroom instruction will begin in room 150 Animal Science Lab, 1207 W. Gregory Drive, Urbana, IL. Tentatively, some live classes may also be held in the afternoon, at the UI Stock Pavilion a few blocks south of the Animal Science Lab, depending on arena conditions. This seminar is open to all youth and open horse show judges, potential judges, exhibitors and spectators of horse events. It is designed to encourage uniform standards for judging and exhibiting horses at Illinois youth and open shows, and to yield a directory of judges for show committees. It will cover criteria for show ring tips, ethics

and standards, judging multi-breed 4-H classes, type standards for stock, hunt, saddle and draft halter, Western showmanship, Western pleasure, stock and hunter seat equitation, Western riding and trail. Fees for this seminar are $20 for youth (under 18 years), $30 for adults and $50 for adults wishing to take the written and live judging exam for listing in the Illinois Horse Judge's Directory. The clinician is Chuck Schroeder from Delaware, Ohio. Chuck has been a 4-H judge for 35 yrs. He also has judging cards with ApHC, ABRA, ARHA, AMHA, AMHR, ASPC, NSBA, GVHS and POAC. He has judged the International, National or World Show Championships for most of these Associations in the last several years. Chuck has also judged the European

Appaloosa Championships in Germany twice and the Australian Miniature National Show. This year he will be judging the POAC International show in MO and the AMHA World Show in TX. He is a member of the OH State 4-H Judges Committee and is President of the Great Lakes Appaloosa Horse Club. Chuck Schroeder has taught riding classes for and was the first coach of the Intercollegiate Horsemanship Team at Ohio Wesleyan University. He now spends more time judging, conducting clinics and working with his own horses on his small breeding farm near Delaware, OH. The Illinois State Horse Judges Seminar is sponsored by Univ. of Illinois Extension and the UI Department of Animal Sciences. Contact: Kevin Kline, kkline@illinois.edu, 217/333-1784

Sommers Gate Farms, Mark Schwarm Trainers’ Workshop–June 1-3, Vandalia, IL

ommers Gate Farms is hosting a workshop specifically for horse trainers featuring Professional Horseman, Mark Schwarm. The workshop is designed for experienced trainers who want to expand their knowledge as well as for aspiring trainers who want to get off to a good start using proven, effective horse training techniques. The trainers will work with Mark and interact with each other to productively start, re-start and/or resolve problems they are experiencing with the horses they are currently working with and may encounter throughout their careers. Participants in the workshop are invited to bring their own or a client’s colt or filly that they are working with or starting under saddle, a horse that hasn’t been ridden for a while and needs to be restarted, a horse off the track that

needs to be re-educated as a saddle horse or a problem horse (disrespectful, bucks, won’t load in a trailer, etc.) that needs some specific attention.

tle and works with ranchers to help them handle their cattle quietly, safely and more effectively.

Whether you are already training horses or you’re just getting started, Mark will teach you smooth, effective leadership skills in ways the horse will understand so the horse will be happy to follow your lead.

IL Student Chosen as IHSA Intern

Mark Schwarm is a protégé of the late, great Master Horseman, Ray Hunt. He was one of only five horsemen chosen in the United States to attend the first understudy program with Ray. He worked with Ray for two months at his ranch in Texas. He has also had the opportunity to work with Joe Wolter at the famous Four Sixes Ranch in Texas and the C.S. Ranch in New Mexico. Mark is also adept at working with cat-

he Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA) is pleased to announce that Jessi Thorne, of Roselle, IL, a freshman marketing major who rides for the hunter seat team of Miami University (Ohio) in IHSA Zone 6 Region 2, has been selected for the 2012 Candid Photography Internship at the IHSA National Championships, May 3-6, at the Hunt Horse Complex in Raleigh, NC.

“The committee was unanimous in selecting her,” said Kelly Francfort, chair of the IHSA Public Relations Committee and IHSA coach at Rutgers University

For more information, call Lea Sommers at 618-593-0999, or email tomleasomm@hometel.com. Visit www.sommersgatefarms.com.

(NJ). “Her resume of photography experience was impressive.” Thorne has been photographic horse shows, weddings, and families for five years, serving in an official capacity at smaller horse trials and working alongside professionals at larger, rated hunter/jumper shows at Lamplight Equestrian Center, in Wayne, IL. Thorne will work with IHSA Public Relations Committee to capture candid and memorable moments at the IHSA National Championships to share with Facebook and IHSA at www.ihsainc.com.

Salem Children’s Home Auction April 14, Flanagan, IL

alem’s 23rd Annual “Sale for the Right Reason” horse sale and charity auction will take place on Saturday, April 14. The auction, starting at 8:30 s.m. will feature 200 new items, and over 25 of the farm’s own horses. Visitors can also support the charity through concessions, bake sale and a used tack sale. The Horse Auction will start at 1:00 p.m. Visit www.salemranch.com or call Jo at 815/796-4561for a list of horses offered. Salem4youth is a 100+ acre working ranch for “prodigal” boys, located in the heartland of central Illinois. They minister to boys 12-18.

MARCH/APRIL 2012

MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE 7

NEWS • COVERAGE • UPCOMING EVENTS

MIDWEST ROUNDUP Show Ring Success Livestock Seminar–Purina’s 2nd Annual Seminar draws over 150

n preparation for the 2012 livestock show season, over 150 students and parents attended the 2nd Annual Purina® Honor Show Chow® Show Ring Success Seminar at Joliet Junior College on Saturday, March 10th. Students had the opportunity to attend breakout sessions to enhance their knowledge of nutrition, selection, management, grooming and showmanship on Cattle, Sheep, Pigs, and Boer Goats. All the presentations included live animal demonstrations. Professional presenters included: • Honor Show Chow® National Ambassador Bob May from Mineral Point, WI. Bob is an accomplished showman, fitter and breeder of top quality cattle. Bob and his family have had several Champion Beef animals at the National and State level. • Honor Show Chow® National Ambassador Mark Johnson provided information on lambs. Mark along with his wife Amy and daughter Emily operate A&M Ranch near Sandwich, IL. A&M Ranch produces and offers for sale

reproduction, selection and general husbandry. The winners received prizes from industry sponsors for first, second and third place.

Bennett Grant, Gardner, IL won clippers at the clinic. Bennett is a member of Coal City Community 4-H Club. Photo courtesy of Dan Ward, Tri-County Stockdale high quality Southdown lambs for breeding and show. The Johnson’s are responsible for many award winning Southdown lambs at national and state shows. • Rodney and Lori Meyer owners of Hillside Stock Farm educated the group on the management, grooming, and showmanship of boer goats. The Meyer family has developed many Grand and Reserve Champion boer goats. They offer for sale top quality animals to local 4H and FFA members. Hillside Stock Farm is located near Chebanse, Illinois. Rodney and Lori are assisted on the farm by their

The University of Illinois Extension sponsored a Pork Quality Assurance (PQA) Certification administered by Mr. Doug Thurnau. The Will County Livestock Judging team parents offered a great lunch as a fundraiser for their organization.

The Purina® Sales team offers special thanks to Brad Angus and his staff at Joliet Junior College; John Davis, Alesha Benedict and staff from the University of Illinois Extension; Jacob Tol, (JJC Student), Utica, IL for providing the cattle. Area Purina® Dealers whose generous support funded this event include: Tri County Stockdale, Midland Crossing Mercantile, Most Feed & Garden, Feed n Time Feeds, Northern Partners Cooperative, Andres Wilton Farmers Grain, and Brothers Country Supply. Contact Kirk Dailey, Kindra Callahan or Paul Homb for your show feed needs.

children Madelyn, Marshall, Maya and Macy. • Honor Show Chow® Sales Specialist, Tracy Coffland offered the attendees advice on proper pig selection, feeding and showmanship of hogs. Tracy is an experienced showman and fitter for all species with a special emphasis on pigs. Tracy and his wife Amanda Coffland reside near Blairstown, IA with their two children. A highlight of the event was the Skill-a-Thon, where the young people grouped by age tested their skills and knowledge in areas of animal health,

Illinois Horse Fair's first-ever Queen,

Anne Marie Connelly of Highland, IL, accompanied by Horsemanship winner Jessica Winter, visit with Illinois Ag Director Bob Flider (right) and Horsemen's Council of Illinois Executive Director Frank Bowman. Crowned in ceremonies Saturday night during the 23rd annual Illinois Horse Fair, attended by more than 10,000 horse owners, Queen Anne Marie made her first official appearance Sunday at the Council booth at Horse Fair.

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MARCH/APRIL 2012

NEWS • COVERAGE • UPCOMING EVENTS

MIDWEST ROUNDUP American Horse Publications Launches its Second Equine Industry Survey–Survey to offer data on ways horse owners use their horses. Go to www.horsesurvey2012.com

he American Horse Publications (AHP) is launching its second Equine Industry Survey to gauge trends in the U.S. equine industry. The AHP Equine Industry Survey is being sponsored by Kentucky Equine Research, Merck Animal Health, and Pfizer Animal Health. In 2009, AHP conducted an online nationwide survey made possible by the sponsorship of Intervet/Schering Plough Animal Health and Pfizer Animal Health. Upon its conclusion on Jan. 31, 2010, a total of 11,171 usable responses was collected. This completed the largest-ever equine industry survey of hands-on horse industry participants in the United States.1 AHP will strive to exceed that number with the current survey.

As in the previous survey, the purpose of the 2012 survey is threefold. The first objective is to obtain information regarding past, present, and expected future participation in the equine industry. The second objective is to identify which issues currently facing the equine industry are perceived as being most critical to those who own, or manage horses. The third objective is to analyze issues pertaining to horse health. In addition to questions on vaccines and deworming, the 2012 survey includes questions relating to nutrition, feed, and nutritional supplements. Those eligible to participate in the survey are men and women, 18 years of age and older, who currently own or manage at least one horse and live in

the United States. This study is anonymous; this means that no one–not even members of the research team–will be able to associate information that is given with responses. When the survey results are tallied, only aggregated results will be presented. To show the type of important information AHP collected in the first survey, following is new data from the 20092010 AHP Equine Industry Survey on how horse owners use their horses. These responses have been broken down by geographic region and discipline. Within each region, the most popular use of horses is for pleasure or trail riding. It is also the most popular activity nationwide. After pleasure or trail riding, the top 5 most frequently

reported activities in each region are identified. To download the results of the 2009 AHP Results Discipline by Region Table, click on the link below. http://www.americanhorsepubs.org/r esources/2009-AHP-Results-DisciplineBy-Region-Table.xls The general equine industry may request a copy of this new information by contacting the AHP office at ahorsepubs@aol.com after April 1, 2012. Data will be available online at www.americanhorsepubs.org at that time. To take the 2012 AHP Equine Industry Survey, go to www.horsesurvey2012.com Survey closes May 15.

HCI Study Reports Horses in Illinois are $1.2 Billion Industry The Billion-Dollar Fact$ sheet is online at www.HorsemensCouncil.org/HCI/PDFs/BillionDollar.pdf

orsemen’s Council of Illinois (HCI) has updated its fact sheet, “The Billion-Dollar Fact$,” verifying that the state’s equine industry continues to be an enormous economic engine, despite a slight drop in numbers of horses and horse owners due to the general slow down of all economic activity in the state and the nation. “It’s estimated that the Illinois horse industry produces goods and services valued at more than $1.2 billion,” according to Kevin Kline, Ph.D, professor of animal science at the University of Illinois and a director of the Horsemen’s Council of Illinois. Nationally, the equine industry annually contributes $39 billion in direct economic impacts to the U.S. economy, according to Kline, who compiled the Fact Sheet, citing data from Horsemen’s Council of Illinois, the American Horse Council, Illinois Racing Board, Illinois Department of Agriculture, U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Horse Industry Alliance. The study notes that the value of the equine industry is nearly as great as petroleum and coal products manufacturing and apparel and textile manufacturing and exceeds the value of industries such as motion picture services and railroad transportation. Illinois is home to more than 178,000 horses, mules and donkeys valued at more than $300,000 million. There are nearly 64,000 horse owners in Illinois and more than 200,000 Illinoisans are involved in the industry as horse owners, service providers, employees and volunteers. Even more participate as spectators.

Based on the horse population figures, more than 285,000 people in Illinois ride horses on a regular basis. Illinois is home to five racetracks with long seasons and more than 100 days of County Fair and State Fair racing for Standardbreds, Thoroughbreds and Quarter Horses. Horses rank as the fourth largest source of personal consumption for recreation in the United States. Data shows that 70% of horses in Illinois are used for recreation and showing. More than 50% of the direct expenditures bolstering the Illinois economy come from “hobby” horses ridden for enjoyment and show. Horses are a major segment of American agriculture. Although most horse owners don't market milk, meat or hides, horses are bred, raised, bought and sold like any other agricultural livestock. Stallion stud services also are traded, bought and sold as a recognized agricultural commodity. Horses in Illinois annually consume 500,000 tons of hay and grain worth nearly $100 million each year. Horses also mean entertainment. Spectators attend a wide variety of equine sporting events in Illinois, including racing, showing (rated, breed, open and 4-H), gymkhana (games, speed-and-action, jackpots); community celebration parades, trail riding; hayrides; draft horse and pony pulls; rodeo (professional, collegiate, high school); eventing (dressage, cross-country, stadium jumping); polo; driving; and the annual Illinois Horse Fair in Springfield, IL, which this year will be March 2-4 and expected to attract more than 10,000 horse owners.

SENSIBLE HORSE SHELTERS™ Custom Built Horse/Livestock Shelters

Portable Reasonably Priced Quick Delivery Well Made (No assembly required) For More Information Contact: Three Different Types With Mike Grossman, 25537 52nd St., Salem, WI 53168 Different Options Available 262/537-3402 www.sensiblehorseshelters.com

More than 2.6 million spectators attend horse racing events in Illinois annually. Horse events generate local economic development from expenditures for lodging meals, fuel, souvenirs and other purchases by event participants. With more than 3,200 young people in Illinois involved in 4-H horse and pony projects, horses play an important role in the personal development of young and old alike. Management and proper care of horses teach responsibil-

ity and appreciation for humane care of living things. Horse competitions develop initiative, confidence, self- esteem and a healthy competitive spirit — gracious winners and good losers. Defying economic analysis, horses are an enduring link to the simpler times gone by. The attraction between man and horse has withstood millions of years and economic changes, which have destroyed industries less a part of human nature.

Stay & Spay offers Barn Cats

very barn needs a cat or two or three. It’s likely the best rodent petrol you can have, as they work 24 x 7. Throughout Lake County, IL, Spay and Stay has been working with feral cat colony caretakers to trap, spay/neuter and then relocate friendly feral cats to local barns. Spay and Stay has been busy working with over 800 feral cat colony caretakers in Lake County since 2002 and sterilized and vaccinated 4,052 cats through 2010. Life in the wild can be dangerous and short for cats caught in the “Breed...Fend for yourself...Die” cycle. Born outside and afraid of humans, a feral cat is hard to bring inside as a pet. But Spay and Stay’s solution is Trap, Neuter and Return, or TNR for short. In 2011, they reached an amazing milestone; 1017 cats were spayed or

Do you have news or upcoming events to share? Email it to Midwest Horse Source: mwhorsesource@gmail.com

neutered in Lake County. This means these 1,000 cats can live out their lives in peace and won't add to the population explosion. These cats won’t add kittens to the overcrowded shelter or require tax dollars for euthanasia. They are vaccinated for rabies and distemper so community health is protected. Spay and Stay charges $25 per cat for the spay or neuter. It also includes rabies and distemper vaccines in addition to minor wound care. Spay and Stay is a non-profit organization focusing on ending feline homelessness in Lake County through TNR. Founded in 2002, supported by private donations, corporate and municipal grants, and fundraising events such a rummage sale, May 18-19, at 1821 Cascade Drive, Vernon Hills, IL. For more information, call 847/2894557 or visit www.spayandstay.org

MARCH/APRIL 2012

MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE 9

Kenosha Therapeutic Program Rider Wins National Award

arly Renguette was doing everything an active 11-year-old girl enjoyed on a typical late summer afternoon some five years ago. The Racine native was having fun at a church sponsored festival, taking her turn on the rides and feeling life was pretty terrific. She awoke the next morning with a terrible neck ache and within minutes was unable to move. Rushed to hospital she was moments later taken by Flight for Life to Children’s Hospital in Milwaukee. Carly had suffered a devastating and rare spinal stroke, possibly the result of a jarring motion from the fair rides, according to the opinion of doctors. Paralyzed from the neck down, she was able to move only one finger and breathed through a ventilator. For her horrified parents Sheri and Don, the future seemed too bleak to imagine. But this vivacious and determined young girl set about to defy all odds with an undaunting spirit. It is that spirit and incredible road to recovery that recently landed her the prestigious national award of Youth Equestrian of the Year by the North American Riding for the Handicapped Association. Carly was chosen from more than 40,000 children currently enrolled in 850 riding therapy centers from across the country. The road to this accomplishment was not an easy one, admits the Racine Lutheran junior. She began with intensive therapy at Children’s Hospital and Froedtert Hospital for more than three months, eventually leaving the hospital with some movement and breathing on her own. It was more than her parents and physicians could have hoped for. One year after coming home she started hippotherapy at Midwest Therapeutic Riding Program in Paris Township. The therapy program utilizes the movement of the horse’s muscles to relax and strengthen the patient’s body. For Carly it seemed like the best possible therapy. “I have always loved horses. Even before my accident I loved riding them . . . they are such amazing creatures,” she said. However it was a whole new experience to ride with very little muscle control. Carly recalls the first time she rode as a white-knuckle experience, terrified she would not be able to stay in the saddle. She learned quickly to rely upon the expertise of her physical therapist Wendy Miklaszewski and volunteers to keep her safe aboard the stable’s beloved Cameo. Today she is able to stand up in her stirrups and maintains a beautifully, balanced seat all on her own. “She never gives up, I never have to push her, “ said Miss Miklaszewski who is accustomed to dealing with many different handicapped patients and noted that Carly’s attitude makes her very special. “She does not even need all of us around . . . she is that good,” she said as Carly steered Cameo around an advanced course inside the arena on a cold November afternoon.

Carly Renguette and Cameo She is now able to sit on her own in the saddle, holds both reins with her hands and squeezes her legs to gently push Cameo forward. All of this is done with a huge smile on her face as she admits this is most definitely her favorite form of therapy. “I am happiest when I am working hard and making improvements” she said. For Carly these improvements started with teaching herself to write left-handed since her right side was weakened by the stroke. Carly has not missed any school, staying on top of all of her subjects with the help of tutors in the beginning of her rehabilitation. Though she suffered a setback in 2008 with surgery for scoliosis she remained undeterred and was back riding as soon as she got the green light from her physician. Her daughter’s passionate dedication to turning her life around has been nothing short of inspirational, said Sheri Renguette. In addition to the hours of physical therapy both on and off the horse, she continues to sing in the choir, loves to go to movies with friends and is planning for college. Her passion is writing and she hopes to pursue studies in creative writing, hence the motivation to teach herself to write again. Hospital staff are very excited by her progress over the last four years, she said, noting it is not uncommon for them to cry when she visits. Pushing herself forward with a walker, she even abandoned that aid recently to try a few steps on her own, a miracle by all accounts according to family and friends. Her incredible perseverance made her a natural candidate for the award, said Stephanie Kubarth, executive director of Midwest Riding Therapeutic Program. Last month she traveled with Carly and the teen’s parents to Kentucky Horse Park to receive the award in front of a standing ovation. “It was crazy . . . a little overwhelming”, said Carly who had no idea of the national reception awaiting her. It is the second consecutive year the local therapeutic center has won critical acclaim for its program, garnering the same award last year in Denver, Colorado with another young and determined student. The program operates in Kenosha County with 55 students from both Wisconsin and Illinois.

Spring Willow Farm Bring your horse ... for boarding, jumping, training, trail riding or retirement.

We love them all! • 10 minutes north of the Illinois state line • All day grass turnout on large pastures, 365, weather permitting • Exclusive private setting with only 25 horses • 200 x 175 outdoor ring • 70 x 150 heated indoor • Hunter/Jumper training available and trainers welcome

Spring Willow trainer, Alexis Tantimonico, specializes in hunter/jumpers. Be in the ribbons with her at Midwest A and B shows this summer!

• 100 acres: trails through uplands, lowlands, wetlands, woodlands, ponds, fields • Open 7 days, owners on premises

Give us a call at 262-878-1288 Location: Hwy 45, 3 Ω miles North of Hwy 50, Kenosha County.

www.SpringWillow.com

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MARCH/APRIL 2012

Checkerboard Chatter with Purina Sales Specialists Kelly Grosskreutz

Kirk Dailey KADailey@landolakes.com

The TRUE

KLGrosskreutz@landolakes.com

Kindra Callahan KCCallahan@landolakes.com

COST of Feeding Horses Today

by Kirk A. Dailey, Sales Specialist, Land O Lakes Purina Feeds, LLC

world that we live in today is very unstable in regards to what we pay for the we use every day such as, gasoline, coffee, toll roads, and even feed for Tourhethings animals. In order to be the best owners we can be, we need to make sure that when we go to buy horse feed that we are getting what we pay for and maximizing the value. Sounds simple right? If we see that we are spending MORE, then that means the value of our dollar is LESS, right? Or is it? Let me put it to you this way. When purchasing feed, what are you most concerned with, the PRICE or the COST? Yes, you might argue that this is same thing, but I ask you to be open minded as you read this article. Actually PRICE and COST are not the same. The PRICE is the amount that you pay per bag or per ton for your feed. The COST of the feed must be weighed against: a) how long it lasts you and b) the value that it brings to you and your animals over another similar product or products. Nutrition is really not that complicated of a process. It is meeting our animal’s daily requirements for four simple nutrients; protein, energy, vitamins, and minerals. The more demands we throw at our horses the more of each nutrient we need to sustain the body condition and performance of our equine friends. Thus the beginning of truly understanding the PRICE vs. COST analogy.

Now it is clear to see that the HAY ONLY option looks the cheapest on paper, however, all of you would agree that the HAY ONLY option for a 1,000# Light Worked horse in BCS of 5-5 1/2 would be hard pressed to hold up and maintain the look that you would be looking for. This option is lacking in quality protein, deficient in vitamins and minerals, and low in fat content. So, we could add a Vitamin/Mineral supplement at a 4 oz. feed rate and would cost roughly $.25-.45/horse/day. Secondly, we haven’t touched the fat content so, another supplement, 4 oz. feed rate would cost $.55-.68/horse/day. Finally, we haven’t addressed protein quality so...YOU guessed it...another supplement 1/2 lb. feed rate at $.15-.25/horse/day. Okay, so the HAY ONLY option with added Vitamin/Mineral plus Fat Supplement plus Protein Supplement would equal $1.92 + ($.25-.45) + ($.55-.68) + ($.15-.25) = $2.87-3.30/horse/day The PRICE of Strategy is $16.49/50# bag, but the COST is $2.69/horse/day with hay. That’s just $.06 more per day than the Regional Pellet with hay and $.18 less per day than the HAY ONLY option once attempts were made to balance it out! The bag of Strategy GX would last you two days longer. So what, you say? That equates to 7 less bags purchased or fed per year! For less than two quarters per week or $21.84 per year, per horse, you can step up to the most popular horse feed in America: PURINA® Strategy® GX. Please don’t fall victim to all the hype and marketing of other look alike products and trust the Best...PURINA® Strategy® GX. Call one of us and ask us about it today. Trial offers are available!

Let’s take a look at some examples: In the following three examples we will assume the following: * 1,000 lb. Light Worked horse in a Body Condition Score of 5 to 5 1/2 that requires 18,200 calories to stay in this current condition.

OPTION 1- Hay Only option = $5.00/bale(50#); alfalfa/grass mix; 950 calories/lb. OPTION 2- Hay + Regional 12% Pellet = ($5.00/bale; 950 calories/lb.) +($12.99/50# bag; 1,250 calories/lb.) OPTION 3- Hay + Strategy GX = ($5.00/bale; 950 calories/lb.) + ($16.49/50# bag; 1,500 calories/lb.) HAY ONLY OPTION = 19 lbs. needed to meet calorie requirement = $1.92/horse/day HAY + REGIONAL PELLET = 12 lbs. hay fed = $1.20/horse/day + 5 Ω lbs. Reg. pellet fed = $1.43/horse/day = $2.63/horse/day HAY + STRATEGY GX = 12 lbs. hay fed = $1.20/horse/day + 4 Ω lbs. Strategy GX fed = $1.49/horse/day = $2.69/horse/day

MARCH/APRIL 2012

GREEN GRASS

MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE 11

Tell Us Your Purina Story This year we will be celebrating your Purina fed horses at the 2012 Midwest Horse Fair in Madison, WI April 20-22nd. Do you have an incredible horse? Are you thankful for the product that they eat every day? Tell us about it! Go to www.purina-midwest.com where you can upload a photo of your horse and share a brief story with us about why you love your four-legged friend and how Purina Horse Feed has helped! We will highlight your stories at the Midwest Horse Fair! Find us at the Midwest Horse Fair and get a FREE bag of Purina Premium Horse Feed for entering your Purina story. Not currently feeding Purina to your horses? Interested in learning more and our products and meeting our Equine Sales Specialist?

Approach with Caution Karen E. Davison, Ph.D., Manager-Equine Technical Services Land O’Lakes Purina Feed

pring has sprung and green pasture is coming on like gangbusters in most parts of the country. For most of us, this is good news because green grass relieves some pressure from searching for quality hay at a reasonable price. Of course, with the rising cost of fertilizer, it may be hard to decide which is the lesser of two evils; high priced hay or high priced fertilizer. However, if you have pasture and intend to utilize it for horses, there are some things to consider. Keep in mind that going from dry hay and grain to lush, green pasture is a drastic change in diet and may increase the risk of founder or colic. Horses that are in the pasture full time, all the time, will gradually become accustomed to the emerging green grass as it comes up. But, horses that haven’t had green grass should only be allowed to graze for an hour or two at first, then, gradually increase grazing time by an hour every couple days until the horse is out full time. It is also a good idea for horses to have eaten dry hay prior to turnout so they are not overly hungry. Individual horses will have different tolerance levels to the diet change and the nutritional profile of the grass, so slower is usually better. Growing grass stores energy from the sun in the form of sugars, primarily sucrose and fructans. High levels of these sugars often found in green grass can increase the risk of laminitis, especially in overweight horses with insulin resistance. These horses should have very limited to no access to grazing green pastures. Utilizing a grazing muzzle will allow them to be out to pasture for exercise but limit their ability to consume grass. Spring pasture often looks beautiful and nutritious but can be very high in water and low in fiber content. At this stage of maturity, pasture may not meet a horse’s minimum requirement for dry matter intake and it may be necessary to provide 10 – 15 lbs of dry hay per day until the pasture matures. Even when the pasture is sufficient to maintain horses in good body condition with no supplemental grain, there will still be nutrient deficiencies. Providing a forage balancer product such as Purina® Nature’s Essentials Enrich 12 or Enrich 32 will supply the balance of protein, vitamins and minerals missing in pasture. These products are formulated to meet nutrient requirements of mature horses in 1 – 2 lbs per day, whereas most feeds are formulated to be fed at a minimum of 3.5 – 4 lbs per day. Pasture simulates a natural environment for horses and is considered healthy from a nutritional standpoint and from a low-stress, mentally healthy perspective as well. You may have enough pasture to serve both functions but, in many cases, available pasture is simply a place to run around and nibble for a few hours a day. You have to consider how many acres and the number of horses you have to determine if you have enough pasture to provide adequate grazing for the grass to play a significant role in your horses’ diet. The very best pastures may support one horse per acre, but most conditions will require closer to 2 - 3 acres to sustain one horse grazing full time. The effective stocking rate will depend on the type of grass, fertilization and rain fall. For shorter varieties of grasses, such as Kentucky bluegrass, pasture must grow 3 – 4 inches tall to provide adequate forage for horses. Taller grasses, including Coastal bermudagrass, should sustain a height of 6 – 8 inches. Stocking rates may be improved if there is an option to rotate pastures. Grazing tall forage varieties down to 3 – 4 inches and shorter varieties to 2 inches in height, then rotating to another pasture for four weeks can help maximize grazing potential of available acreage. Rotating pastures is also a good way to reduce the risk of internal parasite infestation. A good rule of thumb is that if you can see manure piles in your pasture and if horses are grazing close to those manure piles, your pasture is overgrazed and horses should be removed to let it recover.

Come by the booth and see what our Purina Feeding Trials are all about. We are offering feeding trial sign ups at Midwest Horse Fair. Meet us at the booth to learn more and earn a FREE Purina poly tote bag! Plus each feeding trial has a FREE product offer! Tell us your Purina story at www.purina-midwest.com and earn a FREE bag of Purina Horse Feed and select winners will be awarded with a Purina wearable! Learn more about Purina product feeding trials and sign up to get a FREE Purina poly tote bag! Must be present at Midwest Horse Fair to win. Visit Booth #OM114

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MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE 13

Trailer Hitch and Latch Check-up Important safety tips as we head into hauling season. By Heather Smith Thomas

f you haul horses, do you ever have that niggling "back of the mind" worry about your hitch or door latches? This type of worry is a good thing if it prompts you to check the latches and hitches. There are some very fancy trailers that do not have a safe door latch. They may look secure enough, but can still come loose when you’re traveling on rough roads or even when hitting an uneven patch of asphalt on the highway, or crossing a cattle-guard. When the trailer hits a bump the latch may pop open. Animals traveling loose inside may fall or jump out, and any that are tied too close to the door may end up with a leg or two out the back of the trailer. Tied horses have been dragged to death when a door came open and the horse partially backed out of the trailer. Even a rump chain will not always keep both hind legs inside if the horse is trying to back out. Horses are often hauled loose in a 4horse trailer or stock trailer, since there is less stress on them than being tied. In these instances it is especially crucial that the trailer door be secure, since the animals might fall out or try to jump out if the door suddenly comes open.

A few years ago some folks brought their best stallion to a stallion service auction in our area, where he was the high-selling individual for the auctioned stud fees, and then started back home (120 mile trip) in their brand new 4horse trailer. On the way home they stopped to check on him, and everything was fine. They were hauling him loose in the trailer, since that's the way he preferred to ride. But before they got home, the trailer door swung open, the stallion jumped or fell out onto the highway, and was killed. The owners were distraught at the loss of their special horse, and could hardly believe such a thing could happen. It was a new trailer, the latch was in good shape, and they had checked it. The wife was so determined to find out how it could have happened, that later she took the trailer on a bumpy dirt road for a test drive and sure enough, the latch jarred loose and the door swung open. The same thing happened to us 14 years ago when we were hauling calves

to market in the fall. We were hauling a load of calves in our stock truck and one of our neighbors was helping, hauling a load with their brand new stock trailer. The trailer was full of the biggest steer calves and went down the road first, and we followed in the stock truck. Suddenly the trailer door swung open and within less than half a minute all 28 steers had tumbled out onto the road. One was killed outright, 3 others were so seriously injured (with broken backs and pelvises) they had to be shot, and several more were badly bruised and lame, taking months to recover. The latch jiggled open when the trailer hit a bump, even though it was properly latched at the start of the trip. Too many trailers have a poor latch design, and you cannot depend on them to always stay secure. It’s wise to have a method for double latching these doors--even just a piece of baling twine to tie in the latch to make sure it cannot shift or move if jarred. The latch is strong enough to hold the door; it just does not stay in proper position if the trailer hits a bump, and then it allows the door to come open. A simple safety tie or double latch can solve this problem. You should also have safety chains or some other device to make sure the trailer stays attached to your pulling vehicle. We hear horror stories now and then about someone's trailer coming unhitched and going off the road, or swinging into the oncoming lane of traffic or even passing the pulling vehicle. You might think this could never happen to you, but it could--if you don't make sure your hitch is in good shape. It always pays to check your hitches and latches before every trip. You don't want to put your horses or the other vehicles around you at risk because your trailer parts company with your towing outfit.

Books by Heather Smith Thomas The Wild Horse Controversy - published 1979 - $40 A Week in the Woods (children’s book) - $5 Storey’s Guide to Raising Horses, 2nd Edition - $19.95 Storey’s Guide to Training Horses, 2nd Edition - $19.95 The Horse Conformation Handbook - $24.95 Stable Smarts - $18.95 Understanding Equine Hoof Care - $16.95 Care and Management of Horses - $19.95 Beyond the Flames: A Family Touched by Fire - 2004 -$18.95 (the story of her daughter’s burn injuries and how this affected their family) All of these books can be obtained (personally autographed) directly from Heather, at listed price, plus postage. She can be reached at 208/756-2841 or P.O. Box 21, Salmon, ID 83467, or hsmiththomas@centurytel.net

Make sure the hitch assembly is strong and in good working order, whether it's a gooseneck or a bumper pull. If you have a bumper pull trailer and hitch, make sure the ball on your bumper is the proper size for the trailer hitch so it will make a secure attachment with no chance of working loose. Also make sure the hitch-up is at proper angle, with the trailer lined up level, with the tongue not putting too much weight on the bumper or too much angle on the tongue of the trailer. The ball assembly should be securely attached to the main frame of the pulling vehicle, not just to the bumper. Always use safety chains, and make sure they are strong (not worn, with any weak links) and well attached, and of proper length. You don't want too much slack in them or they may occasionally drag, which will wear out the chains

and create weak spots. Another good idea when hooking up safety chains is to cross them rather than hooking them straight. Then if your hitch should ever break, the chains crossed below the trailer hitch will form a sort of cradle that will catch and hold the hitch up, keeping it from nosing down and stabbing into the road--which might flip the trailer and seriously damage it and injure your horses. Safety chains are not meant to pull your trailer, but they are there to keep it attached to your pulling vehicle in an emergency, allowing you time to get your outfit stopped and safely off the road, with trailer and horses still intact. The chains should be loose enough that you can turn either direction without putting so much tension on the outside one to break it, yet not so loose they could drag on the ground. If the chains are too short or too loose, adjust them or add extenders (which are safer than S hooks) or buy new chains of proper length. This little safety precaution may never be needed, but if you ever do have a hitch come loose, it could save your trailer--and your horse's lives, or even your own.

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Formulating Horse Feeds

Different Formulation Strategies Produce Different Results

Karen E. Davison, Ph.D. • Manager- Equine Technical Services • Land O’Lakes Purina Feed hen choosing a horse feed, looking W at the guaranteed analysis can help you determine if the nutritional content of that feed is appropriate for the age and activity level of your horse. You’d think that two products that both contain 14% protein, 6% fat, etc. would be pretty much the same feed. However, products with similar guaranteed analysis may be manufactured using different formulation strategies and have very different formulas. This can affect the nutritional value for your horse. The most common formulation strategies are “Least-cost” formulas and “Fixed” or “Locked” formulas. Both strategies have benefits and drawbacks. There is a formulation strategy that Purina uses for premium horse feeds, “Constant Nutrition” formulation, which is more nutritionally accurate than either of the other strategies.

Least-cost formulation allows a manufacturer to adjust the ingredients in the formula based on cost. As long as the formula still meets the guaranteed analysis, the manufacturer can change the ingredients used in the formula. In some circumstances, the change in ingredients doesn’t change the effectiveness of the diet so it makes sense to meet the nutritional needs of the animal in the least expensive way. There would be no benefit to making a more expensive ration to achieve the same results. For instance, if you are feeding cattle and being paid for weight gain and a least-cost formula will not change the rate of gain or feed efficiency of the cattle, but will be less expensive to feed, that just makes good business sense. However, in some cases, especially when feeding horses, a major change in

ingredients can dramatically alter the effectiveness of the diet, even when the nutrient levels don’t change. A good example of this would be substituting cottonseed meal for soybean meal in a diet for growing horses. Soybean meal and cottonseed meal may both have similar total protein content and could be interchangeable in a formula to meet the protein guarantee. However, cottonseed meal does not provide the same quality of protein to support growth as soybean meal, and young horses will not grow as well eating a feed with cottonseed meal as the protein source. So, in this case, the leastcost formula may be less expensive per ton but the loss in animal performance will negate any cost savings. In addition to potential for reduced performance, there is always the potential for

reduced palatability or digestive upset in horses when large shifts in ingredients occur in their feed. With fixed or locked formulas, the same ingredients and amounts of ingredients are used every time the feed is made, regardless of price or nutritional variation of those ingredients. This sounds like the most consistent way to make horse feed; however, there is a significant drawback. All ingredients, even high quality ingredients, have variation in nutritional content. For instance, all oats will not have the same protein or mineral content. If the formula is completely locked and not taking into account the nutritional content of the individual ingredients, the level of nutrition provided in the finished product will vary. Horses do benefit from consistency in their diets, but they don’t have specific requirements for certain ingredients. The purpose of ingredients is to provide nutrients the horse needs. So, while a fixed formula does provide the same amount of ingredient in every bag, it may not provide the same level of nutrition. For example, a horse feed made of 49% oats, 20% beet pulp, 16% corn, 8% alfalfa and 7% soybean meal would average 14% protein, using the average book values for these ingredients. However, with the typical range in protein content of these ingredients, the end product could range from 12.4% to 21.1% protein. Other nutrient levels will vary as well. So, while a fixed formula does insure a consistent ingredient profile, it won’t provide the most consistent level of nutrition for the horse. “Constant Nutrition” formulation is a key component of the Purina® FeedGuard™ Nutrition System. This strategy provides consistent, reliable nutrition in every bag of premium Purina horse feed. Under the Purina FeedGuard™ Nutrition System, stringent quality standards are set for ingredients which are purchased only from an approved list of suppliers that meet those strict criteria. Then, when ingredients arrive at a manufacturing facility, the ingredients are inspected, sampled and analyzed for nutrient levels. This is more accurate than using published book values or supplier averages for nutrient levels of ingredients. If an ingredient is approved, then the tested nutritional content is entered into the formulation system, which then makes small adjustments in amounts of ingredients to maintain consistent nutrient concentrations in the finished product. There are strict restrictions for how much adjustment is allowed to ensure consistency in formulation. For example, the amount of soybean meal may be adjusted slightly to compensate for lower protein in another ingredient, but cottonseed meal could not be substituted for soybean meal. This formulation strategy ensures that horses always receive the most consistent nutrition possible, and that horse owners always get exactly what they pay for.

MARCH/APRIL 2012

MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE 15

The Winning Edge

Consistency and Precision in Cueing

o you ever wonder how much the rider affects the placings in a performance class? I'm not referD ring to the politics of who is showing, what they are wearing, or how they look. I mean the actual quality of the rider influencing the placing of the horse. In pleasure classes, the Judge is always focused upon the horse's quality of movement, performance, and manners. But, in tough competition, the rider is the key to decoding a horse's abilities. If I have several great horses in the ring, I am going to watch how much the riders cue for transitions in addition to watching the transition itself. Often taken for granted, the cue is the single most important aspect of creating a flawless picture.

WHEN WINNING DOES MATTER

A Cue, simply put, is the method of communication between horse and rider that signals a horse to perform a requested task. To be effective, cues must be consistent, clear and precise. Cues can be physical, verbal, or both. Although horses weigh 1,000 lbs or more, their spine is so sensitive that they can feel even the slightest movements of the rider. Top horses on the western pleasure circuit move flawlessly with little or no rein contact. While this performance may look effortless to you, the rider is constantly controlling the horse through a series of leg and seat cues. The best schooled horses of any discipline will respond differently to movements from the heels (spurs), calf, thigh, buttocks, hips, arms and hands. Watch the hands of an expert reiner. The motion is very slight but the horse's response is immediate and precise. How much cueing is acceptable? That depends upon the type of horse and the expertise of the rider. A young walk/trot rider with little legs may need a big kick or a loud 'cluck' to get her horse moving. This is completely acceptable. But, a professional in an open pleasure class is expected to be much more discreet. Top performers, especially in western pleasure, have little or no hand movement and signal entirely off of the leg. The verbal cues that are part of the excitement of an English Pleasure or Park Horse class often shock the stock type western pleasure riders. No matter which discipline you compete in, your goal is to make your cues as smooth, precise, and consistent as your abilities allow. As critical as the cue, Pre-Cues aide in “setting up” the horse for the coming request. Pre-Cues are movements or signals by the rider just prior to the direct cue. They are as essential to smooth transitions as the actual cue. Many riders don't even realize they pre-cue, but their horse, tuned into every movement, knows what to expect next. Mistakes at shows occur most often in this stage. The rider, tense and distracted, doesn't go through the same motions as he did when schooling at home. The horse, unprepared, lopes off on the wrong lead, raises his head or slams into a stop.

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To ensure a flawless performance, pre-cues must be as closely regulated as direct cues. I use videotape to help riders identify their habits and to “clean up” their movements ensuring a consistent message for the horse. It's alright if you take a deep breath every time before you jog off. Just make sure you do the same thing in the show ring. One of my riders has a bad habit of adjusting her hat just before she lopes off. The horse knows this means a lope is coming. But, since she can't touch her hat in the ring, she isn't allowed to do this anymore when schooling at home.

Kelly’s on 41 Equestrian Center

A very common pre-cue is for a horse to listen to the announcer and not the rider. After years in the ring, experienced show horses know what to do. This becomes a problem when the rider isn't able to choose rail position or timing. The decisions are obviously being made by the horse and not the rider. To avoid this problem, never allow your horse to move off immediately after the announcer calls for a gait change. Make the horse continue for a few strides, taking your time to secure rail position and to pre-cue properly for the transition, then ask for the change of gait. This maintains you as the director of the performance, not the announcer. The third type of cue is the mis-cue. Mis-Cues are those signals that are either misunderstood by the horse or performed incorrectly by the rider. Most always the result of rider error, mis-cues can be avoided by focusing entirely upon your horse and his performance. Experienced riders who are used to distractions around the ring are less likely to mis-cue. Nervous riders watching other horses or listening to rail chatter aren't as precise with cues as those who are able to tune out distractions. Warm-up rings are a great theater for watching mis-cues. Rushed, hungry, impatient, crowded, distracted by cell phones or family, irritated by an itchy show shirt, these riders continually frustrate and confuse their mounts by sending the wrong signal. By the time they reach the in-gate, their performance is already doomed. Another cause of mis-cues is show tack. If you want to guarantee a flawless performance, have a few dress rehearsals at home with your show saddle and show clothes and make sure that you are fully relaxed and your horse “feels” your requests clearly. Your leg might feel different to the horse when you wear chaps. Your show saddle may be stiff or place your leg in a different position. Hunt riders who don't school in boots are often frustrated when their horse moves too quickly off a boot leg in the show ring. Great riders, both professional and amateur, are prepared and spend hundreds of hours controlling for every variable possible. Doing your homework now will pay off once you hit the circuit. If you want to impress the Judges this summer, start focusing now on the consistency of your cues.

25th Anniversary Open House & Jumping Clinic • May 12, 2012 Activities to keep you busy all day include: •Pony Rides •Petting Farm •Raffles

•Pony Cart Rides

•Vendors

•Barbeque Tent

•Massage Demonstrations •Jumping Clinic with Erin Dierks We greatly appreciate any donations for the raffle. All proceeds will benefit Equestrian Connection, NFP Call or email Heather for clinic entry forms & sponsorship opportunities Heather Lingle: 262/515-2737 HeatherMLingle@gmail.com Kelly’s on 41 Equestrian Center 15900 Kelly Road • Wadsworth, IL 60083 www.kellyson41.com

16 MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE

MARCH/APRIL 2012

The Perfect Round

Jim Walker 2-Day Gaited Clinic

May 5&6, 2012

Timmerman’s Farm, Hampshire, IL

The clinic is a two day intimate and intense training session with you and your gaited horse. There will be a maximum of eight riders. Jim will work with everyone as a group and each rider individually. We will concentrate on creating better engagement to enhance the gaits while creating good partnership with our horses. The clinic will include: how to work on the ground, the correct lunging for gaited breeds, correct riding exercises and equitation for the gaited rider. We will address issues such as horses that are too fast or too sluggish, horses that are spooky, horses with poor gaits or horses that don’t seem to gait correctly at all, such as ones that tend toward pace or trot. All participants will go home with a plan for continuing their work on both the ground as well as in the saddle.

Cost: $325- Horse and rider. (Audit only $90 for the weekend)

Overnight Stalls Available. Lunch available nearby. Reservations: $75/non-refundable deposit required Send to: 301 Clyde Gleaves Rd., Wartrace, TN 37183 847-287-5280 or jim@jimwalkertraining.com

by Felicia Clement

Fixing a high headset

I just bought a new horse and he has been ridden in a very severe bit by his previous owners for a very long time. Needless to say, he is reluctant to relax his head and neck and carries it high. I would like to do some local jumping shows and I am wondering if a standing martingale is a good idea to fix this problem? Kristi, Lake Villa, Illinois

A: www.haylofarm.com

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A standing martingale will only cover up the problem. It might “solve” the problem temporarily and you'll feel better, however, once you remove the martingale most likely you'll be back to the same scenario. Even if you notice a difference once you remove it, the desired result will not be significant; guaranteed.

The reason the martingale will not fix this problem is because it is not his idea to relax, and he was not shown another way. It has to be your horse's idea, and then he has to be allowed to go in a new way. The proper way. The reason he has a significantly higher head and neck carriage is because he most likely was trying to avoid, or stay away from the harsh bit in the past and he has to carry his head and neck somewhere. Horses tend to really back off from those harsh bits and they invariably get into the wrong hands, and are typically unnecessary anyway. People like them for their own comfort and security knowing they can stop or control the horse quickly. Sometimes they have the reverse effect and they can get much stronger, but I digress. Once you show and teach your horse to relax his topline, not just his head and neck, through basic Dressage incorporating the use of a snaffle, a wise Dressage trainer, and adhering to the basic principles of riding which are forward, straight and supple, he will relax and come into this way of going on his own and it won't be forced. So many of the problems that arise–especially with hunters–is due to the fact that the trainers never take the time to properly train the horse because this actually takes a little skill and time. Solving problems with horses means you can't shove a square peg into a round hole. Please try to stay away from the martingale solution if you can avoid it. Your horse will be a lot happier in the end, and you will have gained the knowledge that it takes to actually address a problem rather than covering it up. Anyway, with a little consistency and patience you should notice a difference in just a couple of rides.

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MARCH/APRIL 2012

MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE 17

Horse Werks by Carolyn Kakuska

Training Tips for all Disciplines

Good Hands: A special gift or a learned skill?

as your instructor ever told you were lucky to have the gift of good hands? A comment like this makes it sound like you were born with hands that automatically operate in a way that makes your horse move correctly. The fact is good hands are not a gift; they are an asset you develop to promote better communication with your horse. Start with Balance It is essential for all riders to focus on an overall balanced seat in order to develop good hands. Make sure you are sitting correctly on your horse. Proper seat position will affect the placement and steadiness of your hands. Classical seat position is an ancient yet time-honored style of riding. In the classical seat position you will be centered and balanced in the deepest part of the saddle. In other words, your center of gravity is perfectly aligned in the middle of the saddle and also your horses back. In this position you will be balanced on your seat bones. Maintaining that balance on your seat bones will help you sit up straight. Keep your shoulders positioned over your hips and apply your abdominal muscles to help maintain position and balance. Place your elbows at your side under your shoulder and extend your forearm toward the horse’s head at a 45 degree angle. There is a great deal of consistency and support with your arms in this position. Your legs should hang down under your hip to offer support for your body. This position is very balanced, safe and stable. Furthermore, it promotes the strength and support necessary to your upper body in order to use your hands properly when communicating with the horse.

Develop Feel No discussion about improving your hands and communication with your horse would be complete without a conversation about “feel”. Feel is a concept in all sports and for that matter in every part of our lives. In horses the world feel is used to describe the ability of the rider to tell the difference between proper timing and resistance in the horse’s movements. It also defines the rider who can make soft and delicate changes in his horse’s body as well as his movements. A rider with good feel will be able to sense when the horse has changed his speed, going to do a transition without being asked or needs to be more prepared for the next movement. The rider with good feel does not overreact instead he is the rider who is relaxed, comfortable, breathing and moving with his horse almost as if they are a single entity. Feel is developed over time and with many riding experiences. As you improve as a rider your ability to feel and communicate with your horse will also improve. Perfect Your Timing Another critical issue to understand when trying to develop better hands is timing. But what is timing? Timing is what brings feel to life. The easiest way to understand timing is to imagine you are pushing someone on a swing. If you push in the direction the swing is moving when it is at the highest point it will continue to move forward, go faster and higher. On the other hand, if you push the swing forward while it is on its way up you will interfere with it motion and it will no longer move forward, it will go slower and eventually stop. Simply put, your timing was off. You interfered with the

HORSE PROMOTERS 46th ANNUAL OPEN HORSE SHOW Sunday, May 20, 2012 • Francis Field, New Lenox • 8:30 am For info. call Lynn 708-301-1005 HorsePromoters@gmail.com Entry Fee: $8.00 per class Judge: Carole Dunbar Admission $2.00, children under 10 yrs free *** 40% payback, minimum 6 entries, money to first 4 places 18. Handicapped Rider, Assisted 1. Halter 3 yrs. & under 2. Open English Halter 19. Handicapped Rider, Independent 20. English Walk-Trot–40% payback 3. Quarter Horse Halter (4 yrs. & older) 4. Color Horse Halter(cannot show in class 2 or 3) 21. Western Walk-Trot–40% payback 22. Youth English Pleasure (13 & under) 40% PB 5. Pony Halter (56” and under) 6. Grand & Reserve Championship -all 1st & 2nd 23. Youth English Pleasure (14-18) 40% payback place , class 1-5, $50 grand, $25 reserve. 24. Amateur English Pleasure (19& over) 40% PB 7. Showmanship at Halter (19 and over) 25. Novice English Pleasure 8. Showmanship at Halter (14-18) (not more than 3 blues ) 40% payback 26. Open English Pleasure 40% payback 9. Youth Showmanship at Halter (13 & under) 10. Pee Wee Walk-Trot (10 and under) 27. Open English Equitation 40% payback 11. Pony Pleasure (56” & under, rider 16 & under) 28. Jack Benny Pleasure, Open (39 & over) 40% PB 12. Novice Rider Walk-Trot (never won 2 blues) 29. Sr. Horse Western Pleasure (horses 6 & over) PB 13. Jr. Horse Western Walk Trot (horse 5 & under) 30. Alternate Gait (TN Walker, Paso Fino, Fox Trotter, 14. Sr. Horse Western Walk Trot (horse 6 & over) Mountain Horses, etc.) 40% payback 15. Youth Western Walk Trot (12 & under) 31. Arab/Half Arab Open Pleasure 40% payback 16. Youth English Walk Trot (12 & under) 32. Youth Western Pleasure (13 & under) 40% PB 16. Youth Walk Trot (10 to 18) 33. Youth Western Pleasure (14-18) 40% payback 34. Open Western Pleasure 40% payback 17. Lead Line (3 to 9) LUNCH BREAK 35. Last Chance Western Pleasure (no blues) 40% PB

forward motion and movement of the swing. The same principles can be applied to horses. Proper timing allows you to work with your horse’s motion and movement without interference. Developing a good sense of timing between you and your horse starts with ground work. Walk with your horse and learn to move your feet in time with his feet. Practice walking over poles and circles to learn to position your horse’s feet. While you are walking on the ground make sure you practice holding your arms as if you were riding in the classic seat riding position so your body can develop muscle memory and automatically go to this location. Practice this before every ride and it will not be long before you will be able to use your hands to regulate where your horse puts his feet, his speed and his drive. But, the best news is that this will be accomplished through timing and without interference. Putting it all together Now you are ready to transfer what you have achieved on the ground to your horse’s back. The principles of timing will remain the same. You want to maintain moving your body in time with your horse’s feet so you do not interfere with his movements. Learn to distinguish the shift of weight when he is raising each individual foot off the ground and set your body in motion to that movement. At this point it will be helpful to start walking over poles so you can better feel your horse shift his weight as he lifts his feet. Remember to keep your body in the correct position in the center of the saddle keeping your elbows under

your shoulders, and comfortably against your side. Prepare yourself by walking or trotting forward allowing your hands to hold and release when you wish to place, extend, or collect your horse’s movement. Start by working at slower speeds until you are confident you are consistent and not interfering with your horse’s movement. Learning timing while riding your horse is a skill that will require you to be persistent and patient. But it will be well worth the time it takes to learn it once your hands have become more steady and consistent and your horse’s understanding of your instructions is enhanced. The bottom line is when you want to improve your hands you will need apply a holistic approach to your riding style. A rider’s hands can only be as good as his seat, his legs, and his feel. All these attributes are interrelated. They are all significant skills necessary to becoming a good rider. As you develop and improve all your riding skills you will improve your hands. Not only that, as you will discover through persistent practice and preparation your body will just naturally do what your mind wants it to do. This is muscle memory. You have trained your body how to react to a situation and it will be able to respond without over analysis. The very best news is that these seemingly automatic actions are not only pretty, but they are functional, safe and will make you a better rider. Fortunately, good hands are not a gift. They are an asset you can control. So, you can learn and improve all the skills needed to become the rider and communicator you want to be with your horse.

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MARCH/APRIL 2012

From the Side of the Trail by Kandee Haertel ack in the summer of 1984 I made B the decision that I wanted to ride my own horse on trails. Little did I know that decision would change my life forever. First, I had to find a horse. I’ll keep this saga short by saying that, for a variety of reasons, I had decided on a Paso Fino horse. The very first for sale horse I rode was a brilliant red chestnut filled oddly named Nostalgia que ce. I rode, easily, fifty other Paso Fino horses for sale, but found myself comparing them to her. For one reason or another they didn’t measure up. I finally purchased this filly. All I really wanted to do was ride my horse on trail. Less than a year after The Lady became part of my life, policy makers on the DuPage County Forest Preserve District felt that “because there were no horses left in the county, the trails could have closed to horses.” I knew this was not correct. Two of us became a small group that lead to the founding of Trail Riders of DuPage. Ultimately, our trails were saved. You all know the history from that point. My political involvement on the DuPage County level lead to becoming active on the state level with Illinois Trail Riders. That statewide involvement lead to more regional activities. The extent of my regional actions lead to me having a tiny part in national meetings and conferences. All because all I wanted to do was ride my horse on trails. Years passed with many, many meetings about horse trails. Some were successful and others not so much, but I kept trying because I believed that riding horses on trails was something that many people wanted to do. The Lady and I trailblazed the Grand Illinois Trail. We

The short story of how my life changed forever by buying a horse went into city and county council meetings. She was a star on both radio and television. Okay, not so much on radio, but she did fine on television! As a horse and rider team we really had an impact on trail advocacy. All because all I wanted to do was ride my horse on trails. Because of all this volunteer activity, I was hired by the then Equestrain Land Conservation Resource as their Executive Director. The Lady loved it when I had the job. I was so busy with work and travel that she became pretty much achieved her lifelong goal of becoming a pasture ornament. Occasionally I would remind her that she was still a saddle horse, be she seemed able to cope with that. When I became a consultant for Back Country Horsemen of America, she knew that something had changed because I was riding more often. Not too much, but definitely more often. When I fully retired, her desires to be a pasture ornament ended. We were back to winter conditioning for spring rides and actually doing “real” tail rides again. She even became fit enough to once again have her own opinions about what was and was not good on the trail. In short, we had a grand time. Both of us were long past our endurance riding days, but we still got ready for

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some great times. One day in early January we rode out just a little ways with my riding buddy Linda and her Maggie. It would be Linda’s last ride for some weeks because she was having hip replacement surgery today. We went to a really pretty spot on the trail so that I could take some “inspirational” photos of Linda riding Maggie. We did and had fun doing it.

The next day, January 11, 2012, The Lady experienced a twisted fatty tumor inside the lining that holds her intestines in place. Because of her age, 27, and her very advanced Cushings, I made the decision to end this chapter in both our lives. As I thought about our lives together, I realized the impact she had. She was an amazing horse that will be missed by many. Go, Mare! I’ll see you

MARCH/APRIL 2012

MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE 19

Better Safe Than Sorry...

Safety Tips for your Horse Life provided by

Protecting your horses and property from fire. ccording to the National Fire Protection A Association (NFPA), there are more than 1,200 barn fires, most of them preventable, occurring each year in the United States and result in nearly $33 million dollars in property damage. (EMRG, 2011). Barn Fires are a very serious emergency that all employees as well as boarders should be prepared to deal with. With flammables like straw and wood being ever present in a barn, fires can start and spread rapidly in a blink of an eye. Quick and decisive action is a must to ensure the safety of both humans and horses. This article will discuss not only the fire hazards present in the equestrian industry, but outline an effect plan to protect your business. Although this has not been a traditional "Midwest" winter, we still find heating our barns and arenas as a necessity. According to an study performed by Equine Risk Management Group, leading causes of barn fires were identified: Ensuring proper fire prevention procedures are in place not only in the months when heating the barn is required, but as an ongoing effort to prevent these occurrences from inhibiting your barn. A Barn Fire Safety Emergency Plan is the first step to preventing a fire. The Emergency Plan should also focus on the precautions that need to be made to prevent a fire, as well as what to do when fire strikes.

Emergency Plans Should Include: • An evacuation plan which identifies established meeting sites for both humans and horses • Contact information for Emergency Responsekeep information current and posted in several areas of the barn • Staging area for fire department-kept clear at all times • Alternative housing arrangements for animals• IDENTIFY TRAINING PROCEDURES/RECORD KEEPING for all affected persons

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Leading Causes of Structure Fires in Barns 2002-2005 Annual Averages

Barn Safety Inspection Procedures:

Heating equipment

230 (21%)

• Are fire extinguishers available, easily located and properly maintained? (PROTECT FROM FREEZING).

Electrical distribution and lighting equipment

150 (14%)

• Have aisles and doorways been cleared of all obstructions?

Intentional

80 (7%)

Lightning

60 (5%)

Playing with heat source

30 (3%)

Animal

30 (3%)

• Do you have an outside water source with a hose intact or readily available for use?

Smoking materials

20 (2%)

• Are flammables contained securely ?

Spontaneous combustion or chemical reaction

20 (2%)

Structure Fires in Barns by Month, 2002-2005 Annual Averages, Monthly Fires January................................................... 110 (10%) February..................................................110 (10%) March......................................................120 (11%) April........................................................ 120 (11%) May............................................................. 90 (8%) June.............................................................80 (7%) July............................................................ 100 (9%) August......................................................... 70 (7%) September....................................................70 (7%) October........................................................60 (6%) November.................................................... 80 (7%) December.................................................... 80 (8%)

In addition, utilizing a checklist to ensure compliance through out the year is essential for maintaining a safe barn. Your checklist should address the following:

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• Is there good housekeeping maintained throughout the barn and storage areas?

• Does each horse have a halter and lead line available on its stall door at all times? • Is all equipment (electrical cords, fans, etc.) maintained free of damage and in good working order? • Are safe storage practices in place for equipment, feed and tools? • Is the barn environment maintained free of cobwebs to avoid a fire hazard? Providing a safe and healthy work place is vital for animals as well as family, friends, and employees. Developing and implementing an emergency response plan and fire prevention program will help ensure the safety and well being for all of those involved. Ride Safe.......

REFERENCES: Equine Risk Management Group (ERMG) Document No. 2011 - 006 U.S. Structure Fires in Barns, 10/08 NFPA Fire Analysis and Research Division, Quincy, MA NFIRS 5.0 and National Fire Protection Association ( NFPA) Survey

20 MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE

MARCH/APRIL 2012

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Next Deadline: APRIL 25

MARCH/APRIL 2012

MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE 21

MIDWEST

CLASSIFIED

For Rent

Boarding Looking for quality care pasture boarding? 24 hour hay in the winter and very large pastures in the summer. Individually fed 6 days a week with Spirit Plus nutrition. Large indoor arena, outdoor arena, outdoor round pen and trails. Laura Amandis is joining our farm to teach and train. Experienced owner lives on premise. A beautiful and relaxing place for your and your horse. Diamond Acres in Woodstock. $305 per month. Call Jodi 815/210-1309.

ADVERTISING

Advertisers Index

Furnished 2BR Apt. w/washer & dryer. Includes utilities, $650/mo. No pets. Horse board $125/mo. on 165 acres in NW IL near Galena. Call 815/858-3866.s

Sunflower Farm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2, 13

Haylo Farm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16

Dover Saddlery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

Macaroni the Purple Pony . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16

Check out our website:

Tenaya Farms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

Gremlin Farms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16

www. midwest horse source .com

Fields & Fences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Horse Promoters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

Derby Fence Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

First Class Horse Complex, Ltd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

Sensible Horse Shelters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Gate Systems Corporation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18

Mustang Sally Horse and Pet Sitting . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Equine Land Conservation Article . . . . . . . . . . . . .18

Services

Personals

Spring Willow Farm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Wilson Fencing Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

Antioch Family Pride Laundry Inc. specializing in washing and repair of all blankets/sheets and any tack. Free barn pick up and delivery. Saddle pads, stable curtains/trunk covers and bunting. Store# 847/395-6770, cell 847/275-8925.

D&H Country Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

Safety Check, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

White Female non-smoker looking to meet a man who’s involved with horses and likes the outdoors, age 50’s to 60’s. Give me a call and lets talk. 708/2713546 after 3 p.m.

Purina Mills . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11, 14

Kay Feldmar, Koenig & Strey . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22

R.A. Adams Enterprises . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

Ellen Dorsey, Baird & Warner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22

Books by Heather Smith Thomas . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

Michael Moore, Coldwell Banker . . . . . . . . . . . . .23

Cheval Bleu, llc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

Fleet Equine, LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23

Kellys on 41 Equestrian Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

Illinois Reining Horse Association Reiner . . . . . .23

Jim Walker, Turnrow Farm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16

Tri-County Stockdale Joliet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24

Read about yourself in our publication!

See Page 22-23

Greener Pastures & Realtor’s Corral

Take advantage of our many opportunities for input. • Submit a question for: The Perfect Round , The Winning Edge, From the Side of the Trail, Horse Werks or Checkerboard Chatter. • Submit a press release about news of interest. • Write a Letter to the Editor. • Tell us about a youth to consider for Living the Dream . • Contact us with an article idea.

for more Equine Real Estate Listings

Contact Sandy at mwhorsesource@gmail.com

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Midwest

HORSE SOURCE

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Submit all classified copy to:: Midwest Horse Source 18209 Collins Rd. Woodstock, IL 60098 Or Email to: mwhorsesource@gmail.com

PAYMENT MUST ACCOMPANY ORDER Total # of lines_______________

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__Check/Money Order - made payable to KUCHARSKI PUBLISHING Name_________________________________________________________________ Phone (____________) ________________________________ Address____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

NEXT DEADLINE: APRIL 25

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22 MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE

MARCH/APRIL 2012

GREENER PASTURES HORSE PROPERTIES

Find your dream horse property here... Shop in ‘Greener Pastures’ Horse Country on a Budget!

Eliminate your horse’s board and build an income also! Horses or hobbies are perfect for this property. And you will love the house! This well located 6 acres has yesteryear charm and nowadays appeal! Seller is a builder who renovated the house! It boasts hardwood flrs, sep DR, and trayed ceiling in LR. Kitchen has granite counters, w/ plenty of cabinets, movable breakfast bar and opens to sunny breakfast room. Large Mstr, & 3BR & 2Bths. 1st fl BR or Off. New windows, New roofs, New Deck & pool. 12 stall barn w/ feed rm & huge hay mow. Heated tack room, small indr, & outdr sand arena. Other outbuildings are great for storage of any type. Close to many trail systems. Also permission to ride around 80 adjacent ac. Minutes from I-94 w/Union Grove HS. $399,000

If you’re looking to buy or sell a horse property, you’ll want to call me 1st!! It doesn’t matter whether it is a smaller farmette type, a boarding stable, or land zoned for horses, I have the properties and/or connections to help you. I’ve been in Real Estate for 20 years and prior to that I was in the horse business. I know how to market your property and I will understand when you tell me what you and your horses need. Call or e-mail if you would like my “Tips on Buying Horse Properties” sent to you. KAY FELDMAR

Office: 847/557-1626 Cell: 847/224-5311 Licensed in IL & WI

Visit my website: www.horsescallithome.com Email me at: Kfeldmar@koenigstrey.com

Ambiance of the Caledonia Countryside

On a quiet road with easy access to I-94, these lovely18 acres will be the property that begs you home. Updated home has a designer kitchen w/drop lighting, stone floors, SS appliances and a granite 2 tiered island. Spectacular great room w/floor to ceiling stone fireplace and dramatic foyer. Romantic master, also w/fireplace, huge W/I closet & cabinets throughout. Extraordinary bath with all amenities will wow! New Norseman building has 10 stalls and an indoor arena (65x160) w/cured limestone base. Paddocks have all been redone w/ PVC or Centaur fencing. Drainage allows for mud free lanes between pastures. Loafing sheds and water to paddocks. Great location near Caledonia Trail System. Seller must sadly size down, which is your gain! Do not miss! 20 min to airport and just minutes from Amtrak! $740,000 Caledonia, WI CONTACT KAY FELDMAR

Office: 847/557-1626 Cell: 847/224-5311 Licensed in IL & WI

Visit my website: www.horsescallithome.com Email me at: Kfeldmar@koenigstrey.com

MARCH/APRIL 2012

MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE 23

REALTOR’S CORRAL Your business card should be here! Contact Sandy for details. mwhorsesource@gmail.com 815/568-6772

DISCOUNTS ON DISPLAY ADS!

Midwest

Horse Source

Connecting all breeds and disciplines of the Midwest Horse Industry

IOWA DEALERS 1. Horse and Hound Country Store Ltd. Burlington, IA 319/752-6611

DEALER LOCATOR MAP

WISCONSIN DEALERS 1. Premier Cooperative Lancaster, WI 608/723-7023

6 3

2. Premier Cooperative Mineral Point, WI 608/987-3100

3. Premier Cooperative Mount Horeb, WI 608/437-5536

8 11

4. Oregon Farm Center Oregon, WI 608/251-9657

5. Claws 2 Paws Animal Supply LLC Stoughton, WI 608/873-8014

6 7 8

Horn Bros. Inc. Muskego, WI 262/679-1717

13 16

8. Landmark Services Co-op Elkhorn, WI 262/723-3150

22 18 21 1

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12. Horn Trevor Feeds Inc. Trevor, WI 262/862-2616

9. Northern Partners Cooperative Mendota/Triumph, IL 815/5539-1085

18. Feed n Time Chebanse, IL 815/697-3231

ILLINOIS DEALERS 1. M and W Feed Service Ltd. Elizabeth, IL 815/858-2412

10. Brothers Country Supply Ottawa, IL 815/433-3775

19. Earlybird Feed & Fertilizer Goodfield, IL 888/893-3450

11. Midland Crossing Mercantile Newark, IL 815/695-1130

20. Paws Claws and Exotics Too Pekin, IL 309/925-3111

12. D & H Ag. The Country Store See ad page 10 Yorkville, IL 630/553-5826

21. Country Feed & Supplies Princeville, IL 309/385-3333

13. Tri-County Stockdale Co. See ad below Joliet, IL 815/436-8600

22. Reynolds Feed & Supply Reynolds, IL 309/372-4414

14. Ludwigs Feed Store Lemont, IL 630/257-3097

23. H&H Feeds Stronghurst, IL 309/924-2521

15. Capital Pet Food & Supply Country Club Hills, IL 708/798-4800

INDIANA DEALERS 1. Karp’s Garden and Feed Hobart, IN 219/942-2033

3. Woodstock Farm & Lawn Woodstock, IL 815/338-4200 4. Grayslake Feed Sales Inc. Grayslake, IL 847/223-4855 5. Animal Feed and Needs Arlington Heights, IL 847/437-4738 6. Trellis Farm and Garden LLC St. Charles, IL 630/584-2024 7.

Elburn Co-op Feed Store Elburn, IL 630/365-1424

8. Sublette Farmers Elevator Company Sublette, IL 815/849-5222

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11. Main Street Country Store Walworth, WI 262/275-0620

2. Cherry Valley Feed and Supplies Inc. Cherry Valley, IL 815/332-7665

9. Landmark Services Co-op Burlington, WI 800/800-3521 10 Landmark Services Co-op Union Grove, WI 262/878-5720

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6. Frontier FS Cooperative Ixonia, WI 920/261-1718 7.

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16. Most Feeds and Gardens Crete, IL 708/672-8181 17. Andres & Wilton Farmers Grain & Supply Peotone, IL 708/258-3268

Start your foals out right... ...with Purina Ultium Growth!

2. Crown Feed & Supply, Inc. Crown Point, IN 219/663-0139 3. Leo’s Feed and Garden Cedar Lake, IN 219/374-6757

Call today to set up a feeding trial and get a quote on the products you need.

815.436.8600 25520 Black Road Joliet, IL Just 2 miles west of Rt. 59 on Black Road Hours: Mon. - Fri. 9-6 • Sat. 8-4 • Sun. 10-2