Equine Enthusiast

FALL 2014

FALL 2014

g o d p e e Sh g Herdin Published by News Media Corporation/California Edition

Millers an i r t s e u Eq Club 1

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EQUINE E N T H U S I A S T ™ PUBLISHER

JOHN BARTLETT

ADVERTISING SALES SAN LUIS OBISPO SANTA BARBARA VENTURA COUNTIES:

Brad Koyak

805-237-6060 ext. 211

bkoyak@pasoroblespress.com

Carmen Burton

805-466-2585 ext. 116

carmen@atascaderonews.com

FALL 2014

FROM THE COVER

CALIFORNIA RODEO SALINAS.......................................................... 8 SHEEPDOG HERDING: A LABOR OF LOVE....................................... 9 MILLER’S EQUESTRIAN CENTER AND SANCTUARY....................... 18

Sheri Potruch

FALL 2014

805-237-6060 ext. 102

spotruch@pasoroblespress.com

Whitney Schultz

FALL 2014

805-237-6060 ext. 210

ON THE COVER

Arlene Horton-White

Cy Gratham, 10, polishes his roping skills Thursday at California Rodeo Salinas.

- Read more on page 8.

wschultz@pasoroblespress.com

805-466-2585 ext. 115 arlene@atascaderonews.com

Photo by Tarmo Hannula

Michael Bartlett

805-466-2585 ext. 105 michael@atascaderonews.com

Rhianna Sparks

805-237-6060 ext. 208 rhianna@pasoroblespress.com MONTEREY COUNTY:

Sheryl Bailey 831-385-4880

sheryl@southcountynewspapers.com

Jon Allred

831-385-4880 ext. 14

rs Mille ian tr s e u Eq Club

pdog Shee ing Herd rnia Edition

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rporation/Califo

s Media Co Published by New

Kate, a 9-year-old Border Collie, is hard at work herding during the Mutton Bustin’ event at the Creston Classic Rodeo on Sunday, Sept. 14 at the Creston Rodeo Grounds.Photo by JEFF POIRIER

Read more on page 9.

jon@southcountynewspapers.com

SANTA CLARA & SANTA CRUZ COUNTIES:

Allison Stenberg 831-761-7326

astenberg@register-pajaronian.com

Susie Ronzano 831-761-7356

sronzano@register-pajaronian.com

ART & DESIGN 4

Mike Lyon

Rilynn Thille and Jeremy Schwab work together during a lesson at Miller’s Equestrian Center and Sanctuary.

- Read more on page 18.

Photo by Allyson Oken

FEATURES IF THE HORSESHOE FITS................................................................... 6 A BUCKING GOOD TIME................................................................... 8 SHEEPDOG HERDING: A LABOR OF LOVE....................................... 9 A LIFE WELL RIDDEN: SHEILA VARIAN........................................... 10 TEMPLETON QUARTER HORSE HOME............................................11 DE-STRESS AND DISCOVER ‘HORSE TIME’...................................... 12

Lazy Arrow Adventure Ranch takes visitors back in time. - Read more on page 16.

Photo by Allyson Oken

LAZY ARROW ADVENTURE RANCH................................................ 14 NATIVE STORIES COME ALIVE......................................................... 16 MILLER’S TRANSFORMS FROM SANCTUARY TO RIDDING CLUB...... 18 TREE MAN OFFERS ‘ROOSTER RETIREMENT COMMUNITY’.......... 20 RED WING SANCTUARY....................................................................21

COLUMNS BARBI BREEN-GURLEY: OVERCOMING CHALLENGES....................22 THE EQUINE CENTER: THE USE OF THERMOGRAPHY..................24 MEMOIRS OF A COWBOY DRESSAGE QUEEN.................................25 LEE PITTS: MALE FRAUD.................................................................. 26

EQUINE E N T H U S I A S T ™

News Media Corporation/California Edition Published in conjunction with Paso Robles Press, Atascadero News, South County Newspapersand Register-Pajaronian.

www.EquineEnthusiast.com

Veterinarians use Thermography to locate areas of pain and discomfort in horses.

- Read more on page 24.

Image courtesy of The Equine Center

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Kim Kobow, owner of Central Coast Farrier Service, shapes the hoof of Toni, a 16-yearold paint horse at the Santa Cruz County Fair.

Tarmo Hannula/Equine Enthusiast

Photos by

Tarmo Hannula

IF THE HORSESHOE FITS FARRIER USES OLD-WORLD KNOWLEDGE

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By TODD GUILD OF EQUINE ENTHUSIAST

n a faraway corner at the Santa Cruz County Fair’s Agriculture History Project display one sunny September day, a 16-year-old paint horse named Toni was getting new shoes.

It was a simple procedure, and a common one. As anyone in the equine world knows, horses must

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have their hooves trimmed and shod about every six weeks.

Slightly less known are the regulations, or lack thereof, that govern the farrier industry in the U.S. According to Salinas master farrier Kim Kobow, who owns Central Coast Farrier Service, the trade got its start in Europe in the mid-14th century, and it has throughout the

years kept its Old-World roots and in Europe comes with a stringent set of regulations as to who may be a farrier.

There, those aspiring to join the trade must complete a four-year internship under a master, and pass a rigorous test.

And many other specialties require years of education and cer-

tification, Kobow said.

“When you take your kids to the dentist, you can look up on the wall and see their certificate,” he said.

The U.S. has no such rules, however, and nearly anyone can claim to be a farrier, Kobow said.

That’s not the case with Kobow, 63, who has been involved with horses since he was in junior high.

This piece of bar stock, being heated to 2,300 degrees, will be shaped into a new horseshoe.

He graduated from Watsonville High School in 1969, and after dropping out of veterinary school he started studying under a master farrier in 1975.

According to Kobow, farriers came here with the first settlers in the 17th century.

But with the advent of the assembly lines that produced the Ford Model T, the country’s love affair with the automobile began.

Soon, traditionally peripatetic Americans embraced the automobile, which was a death knell for the equine industry.

Suddenly, men who would once have followed their farrier fathers into the craft instead went to work for factories.

Still, a handful of people such as Kobow have managed to hold on to their small share of the market and kept the craft alive.

Indeed, Kobow now boasts clientele throughout Monterey, Santa Cruz, San Benito, and Santa Clara counties, and specializes in “clinical” horses, or those whose afflictions require specialized shoeing. Approximately one-quarter of his clients fall into that category, he said.

That specialty, he said, has throughout the years allowed him to perform the specialty work he desired when he briefly attended veterinary school.

“For me, doing this is tying up loose ends I didn’t finish a long time ago,” he said.

While Kobow had a stock of ex-

pensive horseshoes imported from England at his disposal Thursday, he elected instead to make his own by hand, claiming that his are superior.

Using wood-handled tools worn smooth from years of use, he pounded straight sections of superheated “bar stock,” atop a beaten up iron anvil, slowly shaping them to fit Toni’s hooves.

A big man with large hands made rough from years of hard work, he nevertheless lifted the horse’s legs with a tenderness and expertise that belied his size and gruff exterior as he trimmed her hooves.

Paint’s owner, Cindy Peloquin of Corralitos, called Kobow a “pro.”

“I’m super happy with him,” she said.

She found Kobow through wordof-mouth after a faulty shoeing by another farrier compounded a genetic problem. “(Kobow is) going to get her fixed up,” she said.

Peloquin said that Kobow constantly communicates with her, with follow-up calls and other treatment plans. In addition, he is willing to teach her how to better care for her horses.

“As a horse owner, communication is key,” she said. “Not only is he doing this for my horses, he’s doing it for me.”

FOR INFORMATION ON CENTRAL COAST FARRIER SERVICE, VISIT WWW.CENTRALCOASTFARRIER.COM OR CALL (831) 663-6992.

Kim Kobow shapes a horseshoe on an anvil.

Tools of the trade.

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Equine Enthusiast FROM THE COVER

Photos by

Tarmo Hannula

Wyatt Smith of Ranchburg, Idaho, tackles a steer in the steer wrestling competition.

Ann Scott rounds a barrel in the barrel racing event.

A BUCKING GOOD TIME CALIFORNIA RODEO SALINAS RETURNS

By TODD GUILD OF EQUINE ENTHUSIAST

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hen the women competing in the barrel-racing portion of the California Rodeo Salinas prepare for their run, there are an enormous amount of things on their mind.

Racing at speeds and performing turns one official described as “barely out of control,” the racers must look ahead and perform hairpin turns around three barrels as the animals tear through the course.

Above all, the women must keep one thing in mind as they fight for the fastest time.

“Be fast and stay on,” race official Betty Breaux said.

The California Rodeo Salinas, now in its 103rd year, began its life in 1911 as a Wild West Show.

It has since become one of the top 20 rodeos in the U.S., and draws more than 700 of the nation’s best cowboys and cowgirls to compete for nearly $400,000 in prize money, and for the

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coveted gold and silver Salinas belt buckle.

The event draws more than 40,000 fans to the Salinas Sports Complex each year to see events such as bull riding, team roping, steer wrestling and saddle bronc riding.

Participants take the event extremely seriously, with some shelling out money for special magnetic blankets and shoes for their horses, in addition to acupuncture and chiropractic treatments, Breaux said.

“These girls spend lots of money on their horses,” she said.

“They love their animals, but they are still their business partner.”

And that partnership is important, as the riders travel the country and vie for prizes that can be in the thousands of dollars.

“When you get that special horse and that special team, it’s confidence,” Breaux said. But it’s also fear, because you’re wondering whether that great ride is going to

end.”

The sport of barrel racing has spread across the world over the years, with competitions in Brazil, Italy, China and Australia, among other places.

Taylor Deregt, 23, said she’s been riding since she was 3 years old.

She started barrel racing on her high school rodeo team.

“It looked like so much fun, and as soon as I tried it I was addicted,” she said. “To trust your horse to go that fast and to go around those turns, you really are a team.”

For the team roping competition, two men atop their horses chase a steer across an arena, with one — the “header” trying to toss a lasso around the animal’s neck. Once that’s done, the “heeler” must use his lasso to capture both back feet.

The team is judged almost exclusively on how quickly they can rope both sides of the steer.

Gustine resident Eric Cozzitorto, a heeler, said participating in

the popular event is “a rush.”

“This is the biggest rodeo in California,” he said. “There’s nothing else like it.”

Steve Branco of Chowchilla said he started coming to the California Rodeo Salinas more than five decades ago with his father, who twice took home top honors.

The rodeo has become a family tradition for Branco, and both he and his brother now compete every year. In addition, both the brothers’ wives are barrel racers.

“To us in California, this is our Cheyenne,” he said, referring to Cheyenne Frontier Days in Wyo., considered the world’s biggest rodeo. “It’s a good tradition. You look forward to it all year.”

•••

THE CALIFORNIA RODEO SALINAS IS HELD IN THE SUMMER AT THE SALINAS SPORTS COMPLEX AT 1034 N. MAIN ST. IN SALINAS. FOR INFORMATION, VISIT WWW.CARODEO.COM OR CALL 775-3100.

FOR TICKETS, CALL 800-549-4989.

Christian, a 3-year-old Border Collie, hustles back to her handler after successfully herding some sheep at the Creston Classic Rodeo on Sunday, Sept. 14 at the Creston Rodeo Grounds.

A young rider holds on tight for a good Stephanie Summers directs her two Border Collies during Mutton run during Mutton Bustin’ at the Creston Bustin’ at the Creston Classic Rodeo on Sunday, Sept. 14 at the Classic Rodeo.

Creston Rodeo Grounds.

SHEEPDOG HERDING: A LABOR OF LOVE

CENTRAL COAST HERDER RAISES AWARENESS FOR INCREDIBLE CANINES Story & Photos By JEFF POIRIER OF EQUINE ENTHUSIAST

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hen most people think of rodeos, images of horsemen, cowboy boots and cattle roping come to mind — and rightfully so.

But there’s one group of rodeo-goers that often pass by unnoticed and unappreciated, despite holding a place of high importance.

Central Coast native Stephanie Summers is doing all she can to change that narrative.

Summers — the founder of Paso Robles-based Operation Sheepdog Herding — wants more people to take a vested interest in her favorite canine companions.

“I like helping show people what these dogs can do,” said Summers, who has been working with sheepdogs for 12 years. “I tell a lot of people these are not just pets; they can’t be put in a backyard. They take a lot of dedication.”

Owner of three Border Collies with varying degrees of herding experience, Summers has been contracted to help with Mutton Bustin’ at the Creston Classic Rodeo for the past five years.

In spite of the massive time commitment, Summers explains that her

herding is a pastime, not a profession.

“It’s my sport,” Summers said.

“It’s not a job; it’s a hobby.”

For the 2014 rodeo in Creston, Summers brought out two of her sheepdogs, but had to leave one of her more-senior herders home due to pregnancy.

Tam, 6, recently gave birth to a pair of puppies and has been out of commission as a result.

The pregnancy kept Tam out of the United States Border Collie Handlers’ Association national finals, which were held in Colorado around the same time as the Creston Classic Rodeo.

Competitive events are held in an open field as opposed to a fenced facility, elevating the difficulty level significantly.

“We do field trials; we don’t do arena stuff,” Summers said. “We have these open fields, and we’ll send our dogs 400 yards or 600 yards away. We bring the sheep up, and then we go through a maze of obstacles.”

According to the experienced handler, success is all about consistent performance.

“It takes consistency mainly, and decent handling,” Summers said. “If you have that, you should be able to

do well.”

Summers described the qualification process as a cumulative point total that is accrued at events over the course of a year.

“If you’re in the 17-18 point range, you’ll get into the finals,” Summers said. “Tam had 35 points and we didn’t even go.”

Tam may have been held out of competition this year, but the USBCHA national finals will be held in California in 2015, and you can count on her being out there next year.

With Tam sidelined, Summers came to Creston with her other two dogs Kate and Christian, ages 9 and 3, respectively.

The doggie duo did a great job herding the Mutton Bustin’ sheep, who were pretty ornery after being ridden by a throng of teary-eyed children.

Christian did particularly well, as the youngest of Summers’ Border Collies is still growing into her role.

“When I first brought Chris out, she was this big,” Summers said, holding her hands just inches apart.

“She wasn’t allowed to work or anything.”

She may have started small, but Christian is now running with the big dogs.

“Christian just won the Scottish Games in Pleasanton,” Summers said, “which was kind of shocking.”

The Scottish Highland Gathering and Games are hosted annually by the Caledonian Club of San Francisco, with this year’s being the 149th version of the event.

For a sheepdog as young as Christian to win the Scottish Games is truly a testament to Summers’ abilities as a handler.

That success, combined with her love of herding, inspired Summers to bring more attention to sheepdogs in San Luis Obispo County.

Summers founded the first-ever Creston Classic Sheepdog Trial last year, and the turnout was so impressive the competition was overbooked.

The hope is that the sheepdog trial will continue to raise awareness of the sport on the Central Coast, while also providing an outlet for local herders to compete.

If early indications are accurate, Summers is well on her way to achieving that goal.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT THE OPERATION SHEEPDOG HERDING WEBSITE AT WWW.SHEEPDOGHERDING.COM.

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A LIFE WELL RIDDEN: SHEILA VARIAN DOCUMENTARY OUT NOW ARROYO GRANDE LOCALWORKED HER WAY TO WORLD-RENOWNED STATUS AS ARABIAN HORSE BREEDER, TRAINER

By HAYLEY THOMAS FOR EQUINE ENTHUSIAST

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lite Arabian horse breeder Sheila Varian has accomplished no small feat. According to Evie Sweeney, who recently produced a documentary on the longtime Arroyo Grande local, Varian managed to “change the world without leaving the area where she grew up.”

The 120-minute film, entitled, “V: The Legacy of Sheila Varian,” premiered on Aug. 2 at the Clark Center for Performing Arts in Arroyo Grande, and is available online for viewing.

The story follows Varian, who did not grow up in a horse-riding family. That being said, the skilled horsewoman has certainly come a long way on her journey to becoming a Cowgirl Hall of Fame inductee and star breeder. As Sweeney notes, “Varian’s ‘V’ brand is immediately recognizable to most horse enthusiasts around the world.”

“The film retells memorable stories from her childhood in Halcyon and early years as a school teacher at Arroyo Grande High School, to the humble beginnings of Varian Arabians,” Sweeney said. “It was during this time that a unique vision began taking shape that was initially scoffed at, but later created a legacy so far reaching that it is nearly unquantifiable in Arabian horse breeding across the globe. “ Among Varian’s many accomplishments, the breeder has broken world records, including taking home the world record for open reined cow horse championships at the Cow Palace is San Francisco in 1961. Varian, who taught at Arroyo Grande High School at the time, was the first woman, first armature and first Arabian rider to win that

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coveted title.

“You’ll learn the nuances of what eventually developed her vision as a breeder,” Sweeney said. “You’ll feel the exhilaration of watching her first three Arabian broodmares step off the trailer after their overseas trip from Poland in 1961.

You’ll get to know the intricate personalities of all the equine characters in her story. You’ll share her hurts, struggles and ultimate triumphs from walking a road less traveled.”

Arabians have not always been “the breed of choice” among riders, many of whom preferred quarter horses or stock horse breeds. Varian

changed all that.

“She was always very uniquely single-minded, even as a child,” Sweeney said. “She fell in love with her first Arabian horse, and the horse wouldn’t do anything for anyone but her. That started her down the path of Arabians.”

Sweeney said what makes the woman’s life story unique is that she actually lives two lives: One, as the leading Arabian horse breeder in the world; and two, as a true vaquero and trainer.

“She really broke down a lot of glass ceilings for women back in the day,” Sweeney said. “At the time, there were not many women doing

what Varian was doing. She broke through, not only in the horse world, but in the Arabian world as well.”

According to the producer, you don’t have to be a horse person to understand or feel compelled by the movie.

“You’ll be swept away unique relationships with of her stallions that changed the Arabian breed forever.

But most of all, you’ll be inspired by what can happen when you dig deep to follow your calling, and end up changing the world,” Sweeney said.

“It is a horse story—but more than a horse story, it’s a human story.”

View the documentary and find more information evieinc.net/SheilaVarianFilm.com. The film is directed

by Emmy award-winning producer Millington Productions, Inc., written

by Bob Sweeney, and co-produced

by Sherry Conrads, in association with Platinum Performance. The film was made possible by private donors.

World renowned Arabian horse breeder Sheila Varian; a longtime local of Arroyo Grande; is the star of a new documentary about her life out now. Photo courtesy of Evie Sweeney

TEMPLETON HOME FOR QUARTER HORSES LIVES ON

FOR YOUNG AND OLD, EQUESTRIAN TRADITION CONTINUES AT PAT MAR

By NICHOLAS MATTSON OF EQUINE ENTHUSIAST

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an Luis Obispo County Quarter Horse Association president Marie Miller will turn 80 years old this year, and has dedicated many years of her life to raising, training and boarding quarter horses at Pat Mar Ranch in Templeton.

As she sails through her golden years, she has downsized her own involvement in showing quarter horses, but her legacy is passing down through her posterity, and her great-granddaughter has taken up the craft.

“I’m going to be 80 in another year,” Miller said, “so I have slowed down to two horses. I have one horse that my great granddaughter Jodie rides. She loves the horses. She brushes them and gives them a bath.”

Miller has been through her share of horses, from stallions to mares, but her age has slowed her down with respect to riding and showing horses — she is down to two horses, 6-yearold George W, who she still uses to show, and Putt, 28, which her granddaughter is able to ride and care for.

The quarter horse is a breed that excels at sprinting short distances, and received its name from its ability to cover a quarter mile faster than other breeds — quarter horses have been clocked up to 55 miles per hour.

Quarter horses are by far the most popular breed in the United States, and is well known as a race horse, as well as its talent for rodeo, horse shows, and temperament as a ranch horse.

“They are a versatile horse,” Miller said. “They can do so many of the different disciplines. Certain horses are good at one thing or another.”

Members of the SLOCQHA meet monthly to plan and host quarter horse events on the Central Coast, and are made up of non-paid board members.

The major event the SLOCQHA hosts is the Mother’s Day Quarter Horse Circuit, which was held in Paso Robles in May, 2014.

Miller and SLOCQHA held the event locally, but she said that she really loves the traveling that comes along with the eventing of quarter horses.

“You get to see different areas,” Miller said, “and meet great people from all over.”

As the saying goes, when you fall of the horse, you just get back on, but Miller’s experience bred caution that may help a newly interested quarter horse enthusiast.

“They need to get a trained horse,” Miller said. “You just don’t go out and buy a horse that is advertised. It takes years of training. It depends on the age of the horse. If you are going

to compete, you need to train.”

For the novice, Miller advised to begin with some low-level shows.

“You will do open shows before you ever do competitive quarter horse shows,” Miller said.

SLOCQHA hosts open shows that a novice may enter to get started in the quarter horse show life.

One of the recent shows was the 3-Show Open Buckle Series Horse Show at Pat Mar Ranch in Templeton. Miller also owns Pat Mar Ranch, which boards quarter horses, and plays host to shows. SLOCQHA shows follow the American Quarter Horse Association rules, and owners and exhibitors must be members of SLOCQHA and California residents

to participate.

The show featured 27 events for riders and exhibitors of all ages, with age limits as low as 7-and-under. The higher-level events featured halter high point, and speed events for amateurs and professionals with barrel racing, fence jumping, and pole racing.

Pat Mar Ranch is located off Highway 101 at 405 Main Street in Templeton.

THE SLOCQHA IS HOSTING ANOTHER SHOW ON SUNDAY, OCT. 26. FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT MILLER AT 434-1594, OR GO TO WWW.SLOCQHA.COM.

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Photos Courtesy of

Hertha Wolff-Arend opens her horse ranch to teach communication skills to people.

Sophia Stephens

DE-STRESS AND DISCOVER ‘HORSE TIME’

BUSINESS COACH HERTHA WOLFF-AREND TEACHES A LOCAL COMPANY’S STAFF COMMUNICATION SKILLS WITH HORSES

By SOPHIA STEPHENS FOR EQUINE ENTHUSIAST

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orses have always intrigued me — but having grown up in San Diego as a beach bum, I never spent much time with horses in an up-close and personal way. When the company I work for decided to treat the staff to an equine-guided team-building and leadership workshop at a horse ranch in Paso Robles, I was nervous and uncertain of what to expect.

What could horses teach me about leadership? What could horses teach our staff about teambuilding?

I was doubtful to say the least, but I decided to keep an open mind and let the daylong experience unfold its treasures.

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The Setting

When I first arrived at Hertha Wolff-Arend’s horse ranch near Lake Nacimiento, I was immediately stunned by the beauty of it. There was a sleeping dog on the shady front porch of the home, horses were in the pasture with hawks soaring above, and there were goats on the hill studded with ancient oak trees.

It felt like a true piece of “country” to me.

There were six horses on the property that were all of different breeds and colors, giving the sense of a multi-cultural encounter. Hertha, a certified Business Coach and certified Equine Guided Educator, is originally from Germany, and some of her horses are also “welltravelled,” coming all the way from Germany as well as Russia, the Netherlands and the US.

The Classroom

Our classroom for the day was in a horse barn. I walked up to the barn where Hertha, dressed in boots and a big smile, greeted our team for the first time.

I felt her openness and kindness immediately and one thing became clear: This was not going to be a traditional leadership training in a black and white conference room with continuous PowerPoint presentations. I realized that the next eight hours would be something completely unique.

Being inside of a horse barn made me quickly forget about business suits and pretense. Nobody there cared about my job title, position or the amount on my paycheck.

Listening to Hertha with her team of horses standing over my shoulders forced me into an intuitive and

authentic state of being: if I acted in any other way, I felt that Hertha and her horses would sense this.

This was a totally organic experience for me — a place where I could just relax and be myself, while being supported by a professional coach and her team of horses.

“Horse Time”

After our classroom introduction in the barn, our first exercise was to enter the pasture where a herd of horses were grazing. Hertha directed us not to speak, but to simply “be” with the horses and observe them along with the nature around us.

After looking around and soaking up the peace and quiet, I noticed how peaceful the horses were.

My apprehension faded. After more observation — and almost a meditation with the horses — I felt a

sense of belonging. Being in nature and being part of the horse herd took my stress away and I suddenly accepted my role as a member of the herd.

Yes, normally I would have been nervous of the large four-legged creatures I was sharing space with, but I was not. Rather, I had a new sense of trust in myself and my surroundings, and had crossed the bridge between my fears and just being. I felt calm yet observant, just like the horses. Hertha calls this kind of calmness and state of being, “horse time.”

Leading & Following

After our session in the horse pasture learning how to be on “horse time,” we moved over to the dressage arena for individual and group exercises. Each person from our staff got a chance to work with a horse. Hertha coached us to work as both a leader and follower in small groups. The horses showed us non-verbal communication by following those with stronger leadership intentions and leading those who did not. In between the sessions Hertha provided us with insights, information and reflections explaining what she was seeing. She was a skilled observer and facilitator, viewing us through the eyes of her horses. Her feedback was always gentle but on-point.

Together, Hertha and her horses provided each participant with a deeper understanding of their own leadership skills and styles.

As the day progressed, we learned about our own team dynamics, areas that needed strengthening, our roles within the team, dynamics of trust, and how we can communicate more efficiently.

The communication part of the session was the most interesting.

When I say communication, I don’t necessarily mean talking. If you get the opportunity to attend one of Hertha’s equine-guided workshops, you will ascertain what I mean. I don’t want to spoil the fun of what truly unfolds with this kind of coaching experience.

Leadership with Horses

The most significant moment of that day was when I had to lead a

horse through an obstacle course (both the horse and I were walking together on foot). I worked with “Paprika,” a sweet Mustang mare who looked like the kind of horse you would imagine wandering the wild lands of Nevada. As I attempted to lead her through the course, every obstacle in the course represented a challenge – and an issue that I had to overcome to achieve my desired outcome.

At first I was nervous, tense, and insecure about my ability to succeed and move through the obstacles with Paprika – I was questioning my intentions, and therefore so was the horse. I could sense how hard she (Paprika) worked with me to get through the issues and when we finally made it through the course, I couldn’t help but let tears roll from my eyes. Paprika looked at me as if she could see into my soul – and this was the moment that I realized that I could do anything as long as I believed in myself. I discovered who I really was, the leader of my life - and the one who led me to understand this was standing right next to me on four legs. Paprika taught me that you don’t need words to find clarity – you just need courage and self-confidence.

Hertha Wolff-Arend is ready to show people to their classroom for the day — the horse barn.

Back at the Office

Back at my office I often recall this defining moment at the ranch. I believe that the outcome I achieved would have taken weeks, months or even years if I had followed the traditional approaches. I found more clarity in both my personal and professional life in one day working with Hertha and her horses than I could ever have achieved otherwise with traditional approaches in months or even years. Thank you to Hertha, Paprika and all the friends of their herd for teaching me authenticity, courage and so much more.

Sophia Stephens is an Account Manager at AR & Co. PR & Marketing in Paso Robles, CA. FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT HERTHA WOLFF-AREND AND HER EQUINE GUIDED LEARNING PROGRAM FOR MANAGERS AND INDIVIDUALS, VISIT WWW.HERTHAWOLFFAREND.COM.

Hertha Wolff-Arend helps guide people through leadership training with horses on her ranch.

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LAZY ARROW ADVENTURE RANCH WHERE MORE THAN BUFFALO ROAM

A pygmy donkey was born at Lazy Arrow in August.

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Lazy Arrow Adventures is home to more than 200 animals of all shapes and sizes.

One of the newest additions to Lazy Arrow Adventures is a baby water buffalo born in July.

Photos & Story By ALLYSON OKEN OF EQUINE ENTHUSIAST

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nyone that has dreamt of the Old West and a real taste for ranch life can turn their dreams into a reality at Lazy Arrow Adventures. The company offers lodging in one of three guesthouses as well as camping at one of their two campgrounds in addition to a wealth of activities for adults and children.

Mark Morrison and his family have owned this 500-square mile plot of land since the 1970s. According to his wife, Felicia Morrison, when Mark was a young boy he dreamed of collecting exotic hoof stock and giving them a natural habitat. When he turned 18, he purchased his first exotic animals, a pair of buffalo.

Today, after more than 15 years, Lazy Arrow Adventures is home to more than 200 exotic animals.

Felicia said that she and her husband came up with the idea to open their land up to the public after the natural beauty of their land and

their animals entranced a group of travelers into stopping to take pictures.

“I was just getting home one afternoon about 15 years ago and saw some people at the gate taking pictures of the buffalo,” Felicia said.

“So I invited them through the gate for some lemonade and ended up giving them a tour of the ranch and all of our animals. As they were leaving Mark drove up and asked me quietly who the strangers were.

I said, ‘Well I needed some company and someone to talk to, maybe we should try opening our land up to the public, it will keep me busy.’ He agreed and the rest is history.”

Since that day Lazy Arrow has had hundreds and hundreds of people out to stay — all types of tour, school and equestrian groups from all over the world.

Recently, Lazy Arrow had some “folks from India staying with us in one of the cabins and it is such a cool experience getting to share our little slice of heaven with our visitors,”

Felicia said. “We treat everyone like family around here and offer all kinds of leaning opportunities from feeding the animals in the morning to archery, hunting wild boar, shooting lessons for women and men — really anything you can think of that a rancher would do we teach.”

Lazy Arrow also has a stage for bands to come out and preform and welcome any local or out-of-town band to put on a show. All they need to do is contact Lazy Arrow.

Giving visitors a taste of the good life is what the Morrisons are trying to do at Lazy Arrow.

“With our beautiful land to explore, our 200-plus exotic animals, our cozy cabins, camping and wonderful food, grown in our ranch garden, it is really a place you never want to leave,” Felicia said. “I love this lifestyle and that is why I am so happy to share it.”

In addition to lodging and camping, Lazy Arrow Adventures offers visitors the opportunity to bottle feed baby animals (seasonal),

feed animals on the ranch (both exotic and native), mountain bike riding, photography, vegetable picking, goat milking, roping, picnics, tours of Fossil Hill, picking wildflowers, hiking (groups), playing horseshoes, mountain bike riding, photography hikes, school tours, barbecue, campfires and an equestrian-themed amphitheater for live entertainment.

They take care of a variety of horned, hoofed, feathered and hairy animals. They have zedonks, pygmy donkeys, water buffalo, American buffalo, Jacob sheep, spiral horned Southern African antelope, Indian blackbuck antelope, horses, cows, cats, chickens, peacocks and much more. Everyone visitor is given a full tour of the grounds and its animals on a safari-type truck.

LAZY ARROW ADVENTURES IS LOCATED AT 9330 CAMATTA CREEK ROAD IN SANTA MARGARITA. VISITORS CAN MAKE A RESERVATION BY CALLING 238-7324, VISITING WWW.LAZYARROWADVENTURES. COM OR E-MAILING FELICIA AT LAZYARROW@HOTMAIL.COM.

One of the more rare species at Lazy Arrow are the zedonks; a cross between a zebra and any other equine.

The first exotic animal to call Lazy Arrow Adventures home was the buffalo.

One of the three cozy cabins to stay in at Lazy Arrow has a venue for local bands the Lazy Arrow. and area for dancing.

Many a peacock can be seen at the peacock den.

15

NATIVE STORIES COME ALIVE IN TWO NEW BOOKS BY LONGTIME NORTH COUNTY RESIDENT

By HAYLEY THOMAS FOR EQUINE ENTHUSIAST

H

istorical author Anne Schroeder is fascinated with the past, but not just any long gone time. She loves to research and write about the birth of Northern San Luis Obispo County and the indigenous people who first called the region home.

The longtime North County resident-turned-Oregonian is the author of two novels set in the scenic land.

“Cholama Moon,” is a historical Western set in California’s earthquake country of Cholame, and her second book, “Maria Ines,” tells the tale of an Indian woman at Mission San Miguel. Both books, published

by Oak Tree Press, will be available at Amazon and booksellers this No-

16

vember.

Schroeder said she penned the books with the assistance of Salinan tribal members in an effort to more accurately portray their tribe’s “time of troubles” in the Spanish, Mexican and American eras of Mission San Miguel. According to the writer, history is everywhere you look, although you must open your eyes to truly see it.

“I really wanted to write the history of North County,” Schroeder said. “I have been involved in local history since forever; since when I went to Cal Poly and attended anthropological workshops. I spent weekends up in San Miguel where I learned to make adobe bricks to repair earthquake damage, I’ve gone to retreats at Mission San Antonio and trained be a docent at Mission

San Luis Obispo.”

The Shandon High School graduate worked as an active businesswoman in Paso Robles for 18 years. Although she now resides in Oregon, the writer continues to commute down to the Central Coast frequently to visit family.

She is president-elect of Women Writing the West and a finalist for Longtime area local Anne Schroeder has penned two the 2014 Central Coast books detailing the lives of Salinian natives living during Writers Conference the time of Mission San Miguel.

Award, to be presented Photo courtesy of Anne Schroeder on Sept. 16.

A serendipitous exand they did help me.” perience — where she connected The books harken back to the days tombstones found in Santa Cruz and when El Camino Real was a bustling Cholame to the first white settlers road — the only road, and missions of the Cholame area — piqued her offered free room and board for travinterest. She researched the family elers. It was a hard, dangerous and and, the process, wrote the book compelling time, indeed.

“Cholama Moon.”

“The bandits, rich people — everyThe writer said she’s learned much body traveled that road,” Schroeder about the life of the Salinian people said. “I realized that writing about and their hardships. the history of this area was a way I “I’ve heard people say that they could give a gift to the county.” have lived in this county all their For more information, visit www. lives and they would never go to a readanneschroeder.com. mission because of what the Catholics did,” the author said. “It’s sad that people won’t try to understand the historical relevance of their history. Our history in North County is the mission, the Rios Adobe, the Dana Adobe. People should go and visit once a year; I know I do.”

“Maria Ines” aims to bring in all the issues surrounding natives’ lives amongst the backdrop of Mission San Miguel, giving credence to the voices who felt enslaved and oppressed as well as to those whose lives became deeply entrenched within the church.

“I went to the tribal council in Lockwood and proposed my project,” Schroeder said. “I wouldn’t have written the books if I couldn’t have had help from these people,

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Presley Southern-Clarke is learning to sit tall in the saddle at MECS.

MILLER’S TRANSFORMS FROM SANCTUARY TO RIDDING CLUB

Photos & Story By ALLYSON OKEN OF EQUINE ENTHUSIAST

M

iller’s Equestrian Center and Sanctuary is going from horse sanctuary to riding club.

MECS was originally a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing equine education and sanctuary to horses in need. Now, founder Michele Miller is transitioning from

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horse sanctuary to riding club with a variety of ownership opportunities for riders to purchase horses at the sanctuary and will also offer lessons in addition to club activities.

The majority of the horses are available for full ownership as well as lease options. According to Miller, each horse has years of experience with riders and will have the benefit of being housed at the riding club location as well as the owner

having access to instruction and the riding facility.

“We have had to relocate about two different times and have not found a location that really works for us,” said Michele. “We are restructuring and closing the nonprofit down and ending the summer camp. We are trying to find homes for all of the horses. Hopefully they will go to my students as we are trying to create a co-op or lease

situation. One person will own the horse and two or three people will lease the horse and then they all have the rights to use the horse at a lesson on Saturday. We are trying to change it to more of a riding club to keep the community of riders together because this is so important to me.”

MECS will take riders out for trail rides at Rancho Osos and Montana De Oro, do overnights,

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Since this will be more like a club, Miller wants to open it up to adults as well as children. It will be a great opportunity for children and their parents to join a community of equine enthusiasts. One of her long-time students, Mona Lisa Kearns, enjoyed working with her so much that she volunteered to help with summer camp.

“I have been riding with Michele for a long time,” Kearns said, “and I just wanted to give back to her because she is always giving me lessons and has always been really nice. I love hanging out with the kids so I just do it to help Michele out. I started when I was 7 years old and it is a lot of fun.”

Miller may be ending the summer camp, but she will still offer private lessons. A lesson will include, but is not limited to, how to use tack, how to get up on a horse, how to communicate with the horse, how to keep them from being spooked, looking at ear placement, walking through the basics, getting used to riding at a canter and trying some jumps. Many children return every year to continue

their lessons, Miller said.

Miller has developed programs and taught horsemanship at MECS for more than 20 years. She has a bachelor’s degree in animal science from Cal Poly, earned British Horse Society instructor certification while in England and assistant instructor certification from the American Riding Instructors Association.

“I started when I was 11 years old at a family riding facility where they rescued horses,” Miller said. “It was very family oriented, lessons for young kids and some showing. We all had to do everything ourselves, from cleaning the stalls to feeding, grooming and even taking care of sick horses.”

Miller said she is ready for the next phase of MECS. “Now we are on the backside of this thing,” she said. “It has been about 20 years that we have been providing our services. It is time for a change and I am looking forward to hosting these club events. It is so much fun to be a part of this great community of riders.”

TO FIND OUT ABOUT TRAIL RIDES, TO JOIN THE CLUB OR TO PURCHASE OR LEASE, CALL MILLER AT 235-3834. ANYONE MAY ALSO SUBSCRIBE TO THE MONTHLY EVENT NOTIFICATION BY E-MAILING MILLERSORG@YAHOO.COM.

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TREE MAN OFFERS ‘ROOSTER RETIREMENT COMMUNITY’ IN PASO

By HAYLEY THOMAS FOR EQUINE ENTHUSIAST

T

ree Man Nursery owner Zan Overturf knows that roosters don’t just cock-a-doodle-doo at dawn.

“The crow all day long; and they aren’t saying ‘good morning,’” Overturf said. “They’re saying, ‘Who’s the man?’ It’s all about marking their territory. Wherever you can hear that rooster—that’s their territory.”

Overturf currently houses about a dozen birds—many of them roosters—on her four-acre nursery, located off Ramada Drive in Paso Robles. At the most, she houses about 30, and all have their own shape, color, and personality. Overturf got into the rooster-housing business in a round-about way about 20 years ago.

At the time, Tree Man Nursery was located in Templeton on Main Street.

The 100-foot-by-150-foot plot of land was soon overrun with snails, as the slimy critters are known to catch rides with imported plants.

“I told my customers that I needed a duck that would eat its weight in snails, Overturf said. “So, someone brought a pair of ducks, and I named them Fred and Ethel. I didn’t have a snail issue ever again.”

Ethel went on to live for about 15 years. When she passed on, Overturf was again without a creature to consume the pests that plagued her greenery. About the same time the nursery owner moved to Paso Robles, a woman was inquiring about the donation of a few 4-H and FFA show birds.

“She said her son had aged out from 4-H and FFA, and was heading off to college,” Overturf said. “I said

20

‘sure,’ I can take a few birds off your hands.’”

Lo and behold, that well-meaning customer ended up delivering 30 show birds, a mix of hens and roosters, over Overturf’s fence that night.

What could have been a chaotic situation surprisingly worked itself out, as the birds found their own pecking order and settled in on the land.

“They woke up and started scratching. They were eating earwigs and pulling up weeds,” Overturf said. “I thought, ‘I can hang with roosters.’”

The nursery owner was thrilled to again have birds working as integrated pest management. The “bug swat team” chowed down all day long, keeping her four acres healthy and pesticide free, if not a bit noisy.

“I talked to the neighbors, and they said, ‘The crowing is just background noise, especially with the freeway so nearby,’” Overturf said. “That was my ‘aha’ moment. I thought, ‘This is a rooster retirement community.’”

As word spread about the rooster sanctuary, so did Overturf’s varied bird population. According to the expert, hens are difficult to sex when young, and more often than not, a person will raise a hen only to find out that they’ve actually got a rooster on their hands. On the flipside, she said many people will raise a clutch of birds from eggs, not knowing just how many roosters they’ll end up with. One too many noisy male birds? Tree Man is there to save the day.

“Kids currently in 4-H and FFA started coming in and were excited to see my range of nice show birds,” Overturf said, adding that she happily sold them off for $5 per bird.

“Now we are more of a rooster and chicken exchange. It’s constantly

Rooster “Barry” loves to peck at weeds and bugs at The Tree Man Nursery in Paso Robles.

Photo by Hayley Thomas

in flux. People will bring in handtamed ones, too.”

Locals looking for a rooster to protect their flock can come by and talk to Overturf about taking home a hand-tamed, kid-friendly rooster.

Many of these birds have their spurs removed and are easy to manage and handle.

“About 10 percent of customers are lost due to poultry terror; either they were attacked by grandpa’s rooster as a kid or by a goose at the park,” Overturf admitted. “There’s just no excuse for a nasty bird, and we don’t allow that sort of thing to happen here.”

Overturf added that breed comes into play, and those looking for a bird should consider just what characteristics are desired.

“It’s the same as dog breeds,”Overturf said. “The Leghorn roosters and Rhode Island Red hens are harder to handle compared to some other breeds. The one thing I want to stress

the most is the importance of dirt baths for maintaining a healthy flock of birds.”

The dirt baths — and allowing hens and roosters to roll and scratch in the earth — helps to deter mites and lice. The nursery owner sees a lot of birds over the course of a year, and she wants to continue to see happy, healthy specimens.

“I love this rural setting and this is why I raised the kids here: The whole connection to the food chain,”Overturf said. “That’s why it’s so important that kids continue to know where their food comes from; that they understand that these are living creatures and that these creatures deserve our utmost respect.”

THE TREE MAN NURSERY IS LOCATED AT 2630 RAMADA DRIVE IN PASO ROBLES. FOR MORE INFORMATION, CALL 227-6225 OR VISIT THETREEMANNUSERY.COM.

RED WING SANCTUARY PROVIDES A HOME FOR HORSES

By SAMANTHA BENGTSON OF EQUINE ENTHUSIAST

T

he Red Wing Sanctuary in Lockwood provides different opportunities for South County residents and provides a sanctuary for healthy and sick horses.

The Red Wing Sanctuary is a nonprofit and run strictly off the donations of their sponsors and donors.

The Sanctuary provides education and community outreach programs.

The Red Wing Sanctuary began in Carmel in 1991 with a small group of women who didn’t approve of what was going on in the horse world. The original name was Shaps.

“They took in just enough horses to find them homes and then get them adopted back out,” said Sara Ruggerone, executive director. “There was no sanctuary, no permanent home for these horses. Over the years they realized that they weren’t able to meet the needs of all of the horses in the area so they decided that they were going to open a sanctuary as well.”

The Shaps staff tried to foster the horses that had hope of finding a home and the horses that had no hope of finding a new home because they had too many health issues, or were too old, were offered a permanent sanctuary.

In 2000, Shaps or The Red Wing Sanctuary relocated because they were on leased land and they needed more space to accommodate those horses that weren’t adoptable. The new location was 167 acres in Lockwood, Jack and Marilyn Clipton bought the ranch for Red Wings.

“Our current herd totals 48 horses, 10 burrows, seven ponies, 17 mustangs and we currently have 16 out in

foster homes that we’re hoping at the end of year’s time, those foster parents will then adopt their horse,” said Ruggerone.

The Red Wing Sanctuary also works with community outreach and most recently they had a military training exercises for the veterinary technicians. The vet techs were able to work with burrows and horses so they know what to do when they encounter horses. The veterinary technicians from Karington College are also able to come to the Sanctuary and get the same type of training.

“Most of them have not had any experience with handling horses so instead we offered our ranch and our horses as an educational area,” said Cara McCool, data controller.

“They learn how to do vaccinations, de-worming, evaluations, and taking vitals to assess where that horse is at, critical versus non-critical.”

The Red Wing Sanctuary has quarterly kinship visits which is a group that comes out of Salinas that helps children who have family issues or other issues and are struggling. The Sanctuary staff show the children grooming, how to halter and lead a horse, how to bath a horse, and teach the kids the basics.

“We also have YMCA, girl scouts, home school, as well as regular school groups that come out,” said McCool.

“The children from Fort Hunter Liggett come out quite a bit.”

The Sanctuary also welcomes volunteers to get hands-on horse training, grooming and feeding. Some horses need daily medication, and staff will teach volunteers how to give the medication and help out. Volunteers are also needed for office assistance work and landscaping.

Cara McCool and Sara Ruggerone from the Red Wing Sanctuary talk to King City Rotarians about what the Red Wing Sanctuary provides for not only horses but for residents in South Monterey County. Samantha Bengtson/Equine Enthusiast

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Equine Enthusiast

Guest Columnist

T

he reality that there will be challenging obstacles in life is a well understood, given fact of life.

The inevitability of such challenges with horses is just as certain. Even with our best laid plans and intentions, unexpected detours can present themselves and, as committed riders, we need to be well aware of looking for and creating new options!

The most valuable tool may be that we, as equestrians, are clear on our goals in working with our horses.

With goals, we have a better perspective on what options are possible and what direction we want to choose to ensure the best outcome.

The literature is full of statistics that show that those people who have written goals are far more likely to reach their goals. Once we can be clear on what we want to achieve, whether in the immediate, near, or distant future, the next step is to set up a realistic ‘plan of action.’ This is where we

22 22 EQUINE ENTHUSIAST

‘OVERCOMING CHALLENGES’ gather a lot of information regarding all aspects of our goal.

We can then wisely and carefully sift through to select the course of action which is the most reliable, authentic, direct, and assessable — really, the most achievable in light of the circumstances. Then we must plan a time line that incrementally brings us closer to accomplishing the goal. Focus and commitment are essential so as to stay on course, not compromising any important detail. What we focus on is what drives us constructively forward.

Little consistent steps, making daily decisions that always move us forward toward the goal are what bring it to fruition. If undecided as to which direction to go, keep in mind what is really desired. Then the decision is easier. As Emerson once said, “Do the thing and it will empower you!”

Many years ago, I had an exceptional dressage horse, named Celebrate, who showed incredible promise. Each year, he won state and regional championships on his way to the Grand Prix level. Through the years, he unfortu-

nately sustained several self-inflicted injuries when I was out of town teaching.

More than once my veterinarian felt his career was finished. Unwilling to accept that, we discussed options that might lead to successful results. We devised a lengthy program, which included daily walks, rain or shine, to the nearby beach allowing him water therapy. One of these episodes lasted over 18 months.

It was quite a commitment to keep up the work, but the plan worked and he was able to resume competing at the Grand Prix level in California. My international hopes were not in the cards for us, but we shared the joy of competing beautifully in good health again!

Another example of having a goal and strategizing to achieve it occurred last November when I qualified to attend the National Dressage Finals in Kentucky. My going all the way back East was not in my thoughts, until I qualified!

Then, it was “pedal to the metal”

as I had four weeks to organize transport shipping, accommodations there for my horse and my husband and I, coggins and health certificates, entries, stabling, hotel accommodations, car rental, funding and more.

Through networking, coaching, planning, fundraising and working on changes in details, we were able to get a lot done in a short amount of time. It all came together and was an awesome experience, placing us sxith nationally in the Intermediare Freestyle!

So, with both these examples, having a goal helped bring big dreams and desires into reality. Focusing intentionally, staying committed to what we want, and dealing in a constructive way with inevitable setbacks will help us bounce back in challenging experiences and accomplish our goals.

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Equine Enthusiast

Guest Columnist

By DR. STEFANO SCHIAVO THE EQUINE CENTER

Where does my horse hurt?

Human doctors have the advantage that their patients can point to, and describe where and how something hurts. Unfortunately those of us that care for animals do not have such a luxury when it comes to knowing where our animals are experiencing pain.

Besides observation, nerve blocks and in some cases Lameness Locator analysis, many veterinarians use Physiologic Imaging devices such as

THE USE OF THERMOGRAPHY IN EQUINE VETERINARY MEDICINE

Thermal Imaging (Thermography) and Nuclear Scintigraphy (Bone Scans) in order to locate areas of pain and discomfort. These devices are able to measure inflammation and blood flow, and help to localize dysfunctional areas of the body.

Most conditions that cause pain to the horse will produce an alteration in blood flow which these devices can locate and measure.

Thermography represents a quick, noninvasive and affordable physiologic imaging modality. It has been used in veterinary medicine for more than 30 years and continues to grow in popularity and accuracy. The high sensitivity of the infrared camera, the fast acquisition mode and the correct interpretation of the acquired images allow Thermography to be considered one of the best diagnostic imaging modalities available today.

Thermography is attractive to many horse owners and trainers for the following reasons: It is quick and affordable to do.

The procedure is simple, noninvasive and does not require any sedation.

The images are available immediately for review.

The thermal images may indicate the onset of inflammatory reaction in joints, ligaments and tendons from two to six weeks prior to clinical symptoms (lameness, swelling, etc.).

Thermography can be utilized in several situations such as locating lameness, shoeing and hoof-trimming assessment, saddle-fitting evaluation, revealing signs of arthritis and evaluating tendon/ligament or other soft tissue damage/healing status.

FOR MORE DETAILS ON THE USE OF THERMOGRAPHY IN VETERINARY MEDICINE PLEASE SEE OUR WEBSITE AT WWW.THEEQUINECENTER.COM OR CALL AT 805-541-6367.

Increased heat (red area) with evidence of quarter crack on the medial aspect of the right front foot

A thermal image for saddle fit. Notice the asymmetric pressure areas.

Left hind hoof capsule inflammation. Notice increased heat on the dorsal aspect of the hoof and coronary band.

Solar view of foot shows evidence of increased heat emission in the region of the heels and lateral quarter of the sulci of the frog.

24

MEMOIRS OF A COWBOY DRESSAGE QUEEN Equine Enthusiast

Guest Columnist KRISTA KOENIG OF FROM START TO FOUNDATION

B

y now I am sure you have heard of “Cowboy Dressage,” people are talking about it everywhere. It is a very new discipline conceived of by Eitan and Debbie Beth-Halachmy and soon to be taking the horse world by storm!

For years now, I have struggled to find a place to show the horses I train and clients I teach without compromising the care and thought that goes into their happiness and training. It is tough, let me tell you!

I see horses straining, struggling and with obvious correction “marks” on their hide, either under a trainer that wants to win or a rider that is doing what they see the trainers doing. This has always hurt my heart and made me question my desire to show, but I have always chosen to take my horse or mule anyway and show how well they do under thoughtful training and handling.

It has paid off in many ways over the years, not because I win anything, but because people notice our relaxed, happy horses enjoying the show and doing well. I do not think people set out to be hard on their horses or even really understand the pain they cause them by putting the desire to win first, but there is a better way and, if we look hard enough, we will find it! I do believe this is what Cowboy Dressage will do for the horse world.

Finally a group of people have gotten together and designed a show that puts the horse and his happiness before anything else … and the people involved are amazing and supportive. This is a group that help each other, give advice and words of encouragement. We all want to see each other do well and improve

ourselves, help our horses along and succeed. It is about being diligent with your horsemanship, putting in the time it takes to prepare your horse both physically and mentally and understanding that they are not machines that are to be expected to be at their best everyday.

At this past show, I found my classmate/competitor calling for me and myself calling for her, we also discussed fine points of the new Walk/ Jog/Lope tests and strategies. This to me is one of the many aspects that

the horse I am riding, searching for the right position to help my horse find harmony on a 10-meter circle or a Free Walk across the diagonal.

The tests are for the show, but the maneuvers and transitions are the body of this discipline. The more care you take to practice, go slow and correct, relax with your horse and help him to balance, the more it shines when you ride your test at the show. I find that all of the horses I introduce to Cowboy Dressage take to it very quickly as they love patterns

The winner of the 2014 Gold-n-Grand Cowboy Dressage High Point Open took home this fancy belt buckle. Courtesy of Krista Koenig make Cowboy Dressage so great!

The shows are first class and the experience is a warm, fuzzy one.

However, the even more wonderful thing about Cowboy Dressage is the act of getting used to the court and components of the tests. Once you get out into that space, it is very therapeutic. I find all my stress and frustration melts away as I lose myself in finding balance between myself and

and repetition, if done correctly.

Instead of perceiving that you are on a straight line or 20-meter bend, in the court, you either are or are not, but it is much easier to see where you and your horse are out of balance as you have a line of travel and time to prepare for each change. Because Cowboy Dressage is about riding with soft feel and gentle contact, the horse is given time to develop his

body correctly to be the athlete we all desire. Most people forget that athletes train regularly to be able to do what they do and forget that the horse does not necessarily have a personal trainer to keep him at his best — that is your job!

It is not about loping them down or going up and down hills to build muscle, this discipline is similar to ballet. Ballet dancers are some of the strongest as the slower you go, the more balance is required, but don’t worry any ballet dancer out there can rock a Salsa dance floor!

Physical training to do a sport takes up to a year to properly develop the body. When a horse refuses something or becomes sour to a job, it is usually because his muscles became sore the last time and he is smart enough to avoid overuse of his body.

I have been teaching Cowboy Dressage for the past two years now, giving clinics and workshops, as well as training horses for my clients. It has been unbelievably rewarding.

Our group was quite successful at this year’s shows in California, not because they won, but because their hard work paid off, the horses did well and everyone was happy.

There is a lot of strategy involved in showing your horse well and riding him in a way that he can do his best, that is the key to doing well.

It is a feeling of success — simply to enjoy the results of something that you have put time and energy into.

Many of my people have limited show experience or their horses are new to showing. I have become a better rider with better feel simply by focusing on my riding while practicing in the court since the horse is happy and listens well while schooling.

I strongly encourage anyone that feels like-minded to look into Cowboy Dressage and get involved.

ALL OF THE INFORMATION YOU NEED IS ON WWW.COWBOYDRESSAGE.COM. FOR OUR PROGRAM AND INFORMATION, CHECK OUT WWW.FROMSTARTTOFOUNDATION.COM.

25

MALE FRAUD

Equine Enthusiast

Guest Columnist

Lee Pitts WWW.LEEPITTSBOOKS.COM

I

have always had a problem with sex. Just last week I was in the grocery store and spotted the cutest little newborn baby I ever saw. “Isn’t that a beautiful baby boy,” I remarked to no one in particular.

“I’ll have you know that is not a boy.....it is my daughter,” replied an upset shopper in the produce aisle.

“I’m very sorry,” I said embarrassed, “I didn’t know you were her father.”

“I’m not, I’m her mother,” she replied as she gathered up her rutabagas and her kid and left in a huff. Well, how was I supposed to know? She had closely

cropped hair, except on her legs, and had an earring in her ear. Isn’t that a sure sign of a male these days?

But it’s not just people I have a hard time distinguishing the gender of... it’s animals, and that is very embarrassing for an animal science graduate. I can’t tell you how many times I have looked at a pen of heifers straight on and remarked, “ what a good looking set of steers.” I have quite frequently failed the sex test with dogs, rabbits, horses......you name it. Most of the time these mistakes occur when I didn’t really study the anatomy of the animal in question or have the time to wait for it to go to the bathroom.

This mistaken identity crises has gotten so bad that any more I simply refer to any animal as “it” instead of he or she. But I don’t think I am the only one who has a problem with the gender gap. I’d be willing to bet that 90 percent of non-agricultural people think that all animals with horns are male. And I’ve even heard of a couple cases where some cowhands put a steer through the chute for the vet to pregnancy check and he called him “safe” four months.

So it’s not just me.

But I will admit I am very confused when it comes to donkeys, mules and

jackasses, which the following true story will illustrate. A couple years ago a friend of mine came to me with a business proposition. “Lee, “ he said, “we need to breed some mules.”

“But I thought that mules were sterile,” I recalled from my animal science education.

“You are mostly correct. As you are probably aware,” he informed me, “a mule is a cross between a male of the ass family and a female of the horse family. The reciprocal cross is known as a Hinny. Now the result of such a cross is not fertile... except in five known cases where a horse did lower himself enough to breed a mare mule and a foal resulted. If we could get that to happen to us and we’d be rich and famous.”

I had to admit that was probably my best chance of becoming rich and famous, “But why come to me?”

“Well, it’s common knowledge that you own Gentleman and that he is a stud horse.”

“But why Gentleman?”

“Quite frankly, no one else would lend me their good stud to breed to a bunch of mules. Couldn’t get a real horse to do it now could we?”

That sounded logical to me, so I agreed to allow Gentleman to become

part of this get rich quick scheme. We turned Gentleman loose into a pasture with ten of my friend’s mules. Gentleman took one look around at the mules and headed for the barn, not wanting anything to do with this pre-arranged donkey dating game. I was now very skeptical of this idea and told my friend, “Gentleman is many things but he is not a jackass.”

But I agreed it wouldn’t hurt to let Gentleman stay in his pasture eating free feed for a few days. Much to my surprise, two days later I got a call from my friend who urged me to rush right over. There in the field was Gentleman and he was clearly showing an interest in one of the mules. I was already counting my money and seeing my picture right up there with all the other great animal geneticists when my friend informed me, “I don’t know who is more stupid, you or your horse. Gentleman has taken a liking to the only male mule in the bunch.”

Stay tuned. If this works I’ll go down as one of the greatest animal geneticists of all time.

FOR MORE OF PITTS’ WRITING VISIT WWW.LEEPITTSBOOKS.COM.

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