Pony Magazine Australia May June 2015

BIRTHDAY ISSUE! PONY

MAGAZINE AUSTRALIA

GENETIC DISORDERS IN HORSES AND PONIES

PROFILE: ITCH MAGICK THE GORGEOUS RICHDALE PATRIOT COMPETITIONS

Volume 2 Issue 3 May/June 2015

PONY MAGAZINE

AUSTRALIA

Pony Magazine Australia May/June 2015 Editor Brooke Purcell

bpurcellequine@hotmail.com

PONY

MAGAZINE AUSTRALIA

Advertising

australianponymagazine@gmail.com

Web

http://www.ponymagazineaustralia.com

Postal Address

61 River Road, Beaudesert, Queensland 4285

Stallion Profiles

Layout and Design Brooke Purcell

ABN: 87 845 173 370 Pony Profiles

COVER PHOTO: Our May/June cover photo is the lovely Maytime Park Mr Percival owned by Judy Aspinall of Maytime Park.

Photo: Ingrid Delaitre

Copyright and Disclaimer

All rights reserved.All material appearing in Pony Magazine Australia is subject to copyright laws and remains the property of Pony Magazine Australia, or the individual contributors. No material may be reproduced or reprinted in any manner, way or form without prior approval from the publishers. The opinions expressed within are not necessarily those of Pony Magazine Australia, and while all effort is made to ensure that facts are correct and up to date, to the extent permitted by law, Pony Magazine Australia accepts no liability whatsoever in relation to any advice, representation, statement, opinion or other matter expressed in the magazine. Pony Magazine Australia does not accept responsibility for any errors in advertisements, articles, unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or illustrations. We recommend seeking veterinary advice, or the appropriate health specialist, prior to giving your pony any treatment or change in diet.

Pony Magazine Australia~Volume 2~Issue 3

MAY/JUNE 2015 CONTENTS

SPECIAL BIRTHDAY ISSUE!!

Editorial BUSINESS PROFILE: Itch Magick NEWS: Australian Pony Diagnosed with Cerebellar Abiotrophy COMPETITIONS FEATURE: Genetic Disorders in Horses and Ponies FEATURE PONY: Richdale Patriot AUTHOR PROFILE: Christine Meunier BOOK REVIEW: New Beginnings-Free Rein Series #1 NUTRITION: The Dangers of Frost-Affected Grass PREVIEW: Pony World

Photo: Lorelle Mercer

Pony Magazine Australia~Volume 2~Issue 3

July/August 2015

Stud Extravaganza 50% off General Adverts for Stud Promotion!

FREE Stud Directory

June 2015 marks one year of publishing Pony Magazine Australia!! I would like to thank all of our loyal readers, advertisers and contributors who over the 12months have helped make this publication happen. Without readers, there is no magazine, so please keep spreading the word so that this magazine can continue to grow. So far our readers have come not only from Australia, but also from around the world.

The aim of the magazine was to produce a publication that could cater to the pony industry as a whole, covering all breeds and all disciplines. It has been a learning curve to say the least, being a first time self-publisher, but I hope the magazine will continue to grow and evolve as time goes on. The pony industry in Australia is quite a large one, with the increasing popularity of pony dressage, as well as many ponies excelling in pony club competitions, sporting, show jumping, harness and in hand, as well as those all-important beginner ponies showing children (and adults) the ropes. Though the market for horses in general is not particularly good at the moment, there will always be a demand for good, reliable ponies.

Just a reminder that I am always on the lookout for stories to run in the magazine. Whether you run a stud, have a pony out competing successfully or just a special pony you think deserves a tribute, I would love to hear from you. Sourcing and writing articles for each issue is an extremely time-consuming task and anybody who would like more information is most welcome to contact me. Next issue will feature our Stud Extravaganza, and there are still a number of spots left for stud features. I also invite you all to try out our advertising, our prices are extremely competitive and reasonable.

We have some great articles coming up in this issue, as well as number of prizes up for grabs! Enjoy!

Brooke Purcell Owner/Editor

~BUSINESS PROFILE ~

ITCH MAGICK Anybody who has dealt with Queensland Itch or any type of skin allergy knows how frustrating and difficult to treat such conditions can be. Two years ago Itch Magick was developed in South East Queensland by Ben and Tamara Harmony, and it has been helping horse and dog owners overcome this awful condition ever since.

Ben’s horse Willow suffered from some form of Queensland Itch and Tamara, who had been working with Aromatherapy for many years, suggested using some Essential Oils. Ben, being the horsey side of the partnership, added a few ingredients to the mix and the pair tried the concoction on their itchy horse.

“Understanding the affliction helped us decide the ingredients, “ says Tamara, “The primary cause of the itch is an allergic reaction to the bites and excrement of midges. It is a chain reaction that can be seasonal, environmental and habitual. The changes and improvements we had with Willow simply amazed us and encouraged us to start testing our new creation on other suffering equines.”

Above: Ben’s horse Willow, the horse behind the invention of Itch Magick.

Below: Ben and Tamara

Samples were given away at local markets and over Facebook. “The results were overwhelmingly positive, and so Itch Magick was born,” says Tamara, “We never intended to turn this into a business, we just wanted to help our itchy horse, but look at us now! Itch Magick has totally taken over our lives, it is very exciting!” Tamara and Ben receive feedback on how they have helped itchy animals, both equine and canine, on almost a daily basis. “We are so excited that we have been Pony Magazine Australia Volume 2 Issue 3

~BUSINESS PROFILE ~ able to help so many itchy animals! That is really what this is all about for us.”

The Itch Magick range contains a number of products, as Tamara explains, “We make a range of all natural products that use the power of Essential Oils and Iodine. They are all designed to help itchy horses and hounds. Itch Magick’s Oil is designed to penetrate right through the base hair layers and dead skin, it is particularly good for the mane and tail on a horse. Itch Magick’s Lotion was created for more sensitive or hard to reach areas like the face and ears. It is more easy to control and won’t run into the eyes or leave the animal greasy. Itch Magick’s Cream is simply a stronger, thicker version, great for hot spots or really focused application. And the Itch Magick Shampoo is excellent to use in conjunction with any of the other products.”

Pony Magazine Australia Volume 2 Issue 3

~BUSINESS PROFILE ~

“Our basic business philosophy is to make Itch Magick as easily available to as many itchy animals as possible whilst still having time to enjoy our own animals and life,” says Tamara, adding, “We also support various animal charities as $1 from every bottle sold is donated to a different animal rescue group each month. I love being able to give back to the community.”

From humble beginnings, Itch Magick has completely taken off. It is the talk of the horse industry and is now available all over Australia via mail order or through a number of produce stores and saddleries, including Horseland. Tamara and Ben plan to continue to expand their business and keep helping itchy equines and canines, and would eventually like to see Itch Magick also available overseas.

“I don’t know that any product will ‘cure’ Queensland Itch completely because of what causes it.” Tamara explains “ But Itch Magick is certainly proving to be a great way to help manage itch easily and provide ongoing relief to your four legged friend.”

~ NEWS ~

Australian Pony diagnosed with Cerebellar Abiotrophy (CA)

Cerebellar Abiotrophy (CA) is a recessive autosomal disorder originally thought to be relatively isolated to the Arabian breed.

Recently an Australian Pony has been diagnosed with the disorder, proving this not to be the case at all.

Cerebellar Abiotrophy (CA) is a disorder that affects the nervous system, specifically the cells that control coordination and refinement of movement (Purkinje cells, which are located in the cerebellum). Foals born with CA often (but not always) appear normal at birth, with symptoms appearing typically at about six weeks of age (though sometimes later) as degeneration of the cells result in varying levels of neurological signs. Symptoms include problems with balance and coordination, head tremors, a wide-based stance while standing, trouble getting up when lying on their side, and exaggerated action while moving. CA horses tend to startle more easily and are known to rear and fall, being overall more prone to injury. Degree of severity of the disorder varies, however due to their dangerous and unpredictable habits, CA horses are generally humanely euthanised due to the physical danger they present to themselves and others.

CA is an autosomal recessive disorder (see Feature), which means that both parents must carry a copy of the CA gene to produce a CA foal. An affected foal occurs when they receive two disorder genes, one from each parent. Carriers, which are horses that only carry one copy of the CA gene, are not physically affected. The disorder has been known in Arabian horses for some time and a test has been developed to determine whether horses are clear, affected or carriers. This is important for a number of reasons. Firstly, it avoids misdiagnosis. CA may be misdiagnosed as head or neck trauma, due to its neurological symptoms, and there is a great chance that the disease has occurred in numerous instances where it was passed off as something else.

Secondly, it is possible to determine horses which are carriers. Because mating a carrier to a carrier presents a 25% chance of producing a diseased foal and a 50% chance of producing a carrier of the disease, it is best to avoid mating carriers together and running the risk of an affected foal. Mating a carrier to a clear horse will produce either a carrier or a Pony Magazine Australia Volume 2 Issue 3

~ NEWS ~ clear horse, in this case there is no chance of producing an affected foal.

Until now CA has been Just recently an Australian Pony practically unheard of in the has been diagnosed as being pony breeds. This instance affected by CA. This was raises the question of how previously unheard of and opens many cases have gone up a whole new avenue for the undetected? disease. This particular pony was not particularly high in Arabian blood (less than 8%), and this Arabian blood was generations back. Of course with any horse or pony that traces back to Arabian ancestry the chances of recessive disorders being carried down the line are a possibility. This raises the question of how common is this, and other recessive diseases which can hide for generations, in the gene pool of our ponies, and is testing necessary to determine this? The owner of this particular pony stresses the importance of being aware of such disorders and the possibility of their presence in the pony gene pool. Other ponies have since been tested for their carrier status, with a number of them coming up positive. Until now CA has been practically unheard of in the pony breeds. This instance raises the question of how many cases have gone undetected?

A study done by L.S. Brault and M.C.T. Penedo and published in the Equine Veterinary Journal in 2011 confirmed that CA carriers were present in the Trakehner, Welsh and Bashkir Curly breeds. The former two were found in horses which were at least 50% Arabian blood, while the instances in the Bashkir Curly breed were the result of Arabian influence early in the development of the breed. The authors estimated, from their testing of over 4200 Arabian horses from the general population, that the CA

An Australian Pony, ‘Luxe’, has been diagnosed with Cerebellar Abiotrophy, a genetic disorder common in the Arabian breed but previously relatively unknown in the pony breeds

Pony Magazine Australia Volume 2 Issue 3

~ NEWS ~ There is no need to entirely delete carriers from the breeding program, they just require more thoughtful tactics when choosing a breeding partner to avoid producing affected progeny. Their precious genetics need not be lost from your program,

carrier frequency in the Arabian breed is about 19.7%. They concluded that any breed which has Arabian ancestry is at risk of having CA alleles in their gene pool and are candidates for genetic testing to determine the frequency and to protect these breeds from developing an increased risk of the disorder.

Autosomal recessive disorders are managed quite effectively with the use of testing and strategic breeding decisions. There is no need to entirely delete carriers from the breeding program, they just require more thoughtful tactics when choosing a breeding partner to avoid producing affected progeny. Their precious genetics need not be lost from your program, testing allows us to make informed decisions when it comes to genetic disorders and to manage them efficiently and safely.

Pony Magazine Australia Volume 2 Issue 3

~ COMPETITIONS~

MAY/JUNE 2014 COMPETITIONS We have a number of giveaways this month!

Enter for your chance to win! *Submit a Stud Profile for our Stud Extravaganza issue, all published stud profiles will go into the draw to win a full page or half page advert! *NEW My First Pony segment! Tell us about your first pony for the chance to feature in one of our future issues! All published stories will win a Pony Magazine Australia cap! *Free Rein Series giveaway! We are giving away a Kindle copy of Free Rein #1 New Beginnings to one lucky reader, all you have to do is send in what your favourite pony themed novel is and why. *Horse Country- we are also giving away a free copy of Horse Country, tell us what your dream horsey career is and why for your chance to win!

Pony Magazine Australia Volume 2 Issue 3

~ FEATURE ~

Genetic Disorders in Horse and Ponies The diagnosis of Cerebellar Abiotrohpy (CA) in a pony, a disorder thought to be found practically exclusively in the Arabian breed, brings to light the likelihood of other genetic disorders hidden in our pony gene pools and the possibility of them affecting our stock and breeding programs. There are a number of genetic disorders found in horses and ponies, among the most concerning of which to a breeding program being the autosomal recessive disorders. These can remain hidden for generations, with the only way to know that a horse or pony is a carrier either to have them tested or if they produce an affected foal.

Autosomal recessive disorders are concerning to breeders as they can ‘hide’ Equine DNA for generations, popping up unexpectantly.

Horses need two copies of the gene to be Horses have 64 chromosomes. 32 affected by the disorders (one from the sire of these derive from their sire, and one from the dam), while horses with and 32 from their dam. just one copy are physically unaffected but Chromosomes carry the horse’s can pass on this gene to their progeny (see genetic information via their Figure 1). Unless an affected foal is DNA. produced, or the horse is tested, there is no way to identify which horses are Of these chromostomes, 62 are carriers. This is the reason why genetic what are known as autosomes, testing is so important and should be while the other two are sex implemented into breeding programs which chromosomes, which determine may be at risk. Because these disorders are the sex of the horse (XX for in most cases fatal, testing saves the female, XY for male). heartbreak of going through all of the planning and waiting and ending up with a Autosomal disorders are foal that has to be euthanised. This situation mutations on the autosomal is completely avoidable.

DNA. With the development of genetic testing, it has become possible to test the carrier status of suspected horses and ponies. This makes it possible to avoid mating carriers, eliminating the risk of producing affected progeny. Carriers of autosomal recessive diseases need not be dismissed If a parent is a carrier for a from the gene pool, eradication of genetic disease there is a 50% carrier horses is often not viable when chance that the gene will be the gene pool may be small to start with, passed on to any progeny but the risk of producing affected progeny can be managed. Where car-

Pony Magazine Australia Volume 2 Issue 3

~ FEATURE ~ rier horses and ponies are unaffected by the disease, as is the case in disorders caused by recessive genes, there is no need to lose their valuable genetics and restrict variability in an already relatively small gene pool.

Dominant diseases, such as HYPP, are less complicated to diagnose. Only one copy of the gene is required for a horse to be affected physically so these disorders are more obvious. It is still important to test because where horses carry two diseased genes, the disorder may be more debilitating and also all progeny will be affected by the disease, while for a horse with one defective gene, from any one mating the chance of getting a diseased horse is 50%. With these dominant diseases it is best to avoid breeding from affected horses altogether.

A number of genetic diseases have been recognised in horses and ponies. A few of them are outlined below, this is by no means an extensive list but just a few of the main ones. Of major concern to pony breeders are those found in the Arabian, due to the significant influence that the Arabian has had on the pony breeds, though conditions found in Quarter Horses should also be considered for those breeding Quarter Ponies or sporting ponies with Quarter Horse or Paint blood.

Cerebellar Abiotrophy (CA)

Cerebellar Abiotrophy (CA) is a disorder that affects the nervous system, specifically the cells that control coordination and refinement of movement (Purkinje cells, which are located in the cerebellum).

Foals born with CA often (but not always) appear normal at birth, with symptoms appearing typically at about six weeks of age (though sometimes later) as degeneration of the cells result in varying levels of neurological signs.

Symptoms include problems with balance and coordination, head tremors, a wide-based stance while standing, trouble getting up when lying on their side, and exaggerated action while moving. CA horses tend to startle more easily and are known to rear and fall, being overall more prone to injury. Degree of severity of the disorder varies, however due to their dangerous and unpredictable habits, CA horses are generally humanely euthanised due to the physical danger they present to themselves and others.

CA is a recessive disease, requiring two copies of the mutated gene to be affected.

Foal Immunodeficiency Syndrome (FIS)

This disease was originally called Fell Pony Syndrome as it was first discovered in a population of Fell ponies in 1998. The disease has since been discovered in Dales ponies as well, though the carrier frequency is slightly lower, and also in some coloured horses (i.e. Gypsy horse breeds).

Foals born with FIS appear normal at birth, but start to deteriorate two to six

Pony Magazine Australia Volume 2 Issue 3

~ FEATURE ~ weeks after birth. Foals with RECESSIVE GENE DOMINANT GENE the disease are unable to mount effective immune responses, being incapable of producing their own immunoglobulins, and so once their dam’s CARRIER PARENT antibodies wear off, they are CARRIER PARENT (UNAFFECTED) unable to protect themselves (UNAFFECTED) PROGENY from harmful bacteria and disease. Early symptoms include diarrhoea, anaemia, pale gums, nasal discharge, poor growth and poor appetite. The disease appears CLEAR CARRIER CARRIER AFFECTED to be similar to SCID (see FOAL FOAL FOAL FOAL below) in Arabian horses, (UNAFFECTED) (UNAFFECTED) however a different gene was found to be responsible.

FIGURE 1. EXAMPLE OF A PEDIGREE SHOWING FIGURE 1.

Treatment has been trialled INHERITANCE OF RECESSIVE GENETIC DISORDERS but only prolongs life and The above diagram represents the possibilities from any one mating of suffering. The disease is carrier parents. For every mating, there is a one in four chance of always fatal, generally before producing a clear foal, a two in four (50%) chance of producing a the age of three months. carrier foal and a one in four chance of producing an affected foal.

The disease was found to be caused by a recessive gene and a test has been developed to determine the status of ponies. Because both the Fell and Dales pony breeds are considered rare, it is not feasible to remove large numbers from the population. Testing allows breeders to avoid producing affected foals while still maintaining the gene pool.

Severe Combined Immunodeficiency Disease (SCID)

SCID is similar to FIS, being a primary immune deficiency, and was first defined in 1973 in an Arabian foal.

With SCID affected foals, the humoral and cell-mediated immunity systems are unable to function properly and the foal succumbs to opportunistic infection.

As above, the foal is born normal, however once the dam’s antibodies begin to wane, the foal’s own immune system is unable to function on its own.Affected horses generally die within the first few months of life, or need to be euthanised.

As with CA and FIS, SCID is an autosomal recessive disease and requires that both parents be carriers in order to produce an affected foal. Since 1997 a

Pony Magazine Australia Volume 2 Issue 3

~ FEATURE ~ commercial test for SCID has been available, making it possible to confirm affected foals and determine carrier horses.

The disease is present in the Arabian gene pool and so potentially may be found in any horse or pony who traces back to a carrier horse.

Just recently testing for SCID, LFS and CA has been made available in Australia through the University of Queensland and Practical Horse Genetics.

Lavender Foal Syndrome (LFS)

LFS, also known as Coat Colour Dilution Lethal (CCDL), gets its name from the characteristic colour of affected foals. Frequently foals are born with a diluted coat colour, which has been described as lavender, pale pink, or silver. Affected foals often have a difficult birth, and are unable to stand. It is common for affected foals to be passed off as dummy foals, due to the nature of their entry into the world. The disease affects the neurological system, foals having recurrent episodes of tetany. These foals either die within days of birth, or are humanely euthanised.

This disease is rare, known to exist in horses of straight Egyptian lines and horses of high Egyptian percentage, but is also present in other Arabian bloodlines. The gene responsible was found to be recessive, so both parents must be carriers to produce an affected foal.

Hereditary Equine Regional Dermal Asthenia (HERDA)

HERDA is seen primarily in Quarter Horse bred for cutting. Again, foals appear normal at birth, but the skin is found to be unusually sensitive to wounds and wound healing is difficult. Their skin is not hyper-elastic and tears easily, with resulting wounds not healing and getting worse, or leaving disfiguring scars.

Skin is split into three layers, with the middle layer, the dermis, being the thickest. In horses with HERDA the collagen (which provides elasticity) is notably damaged and disorganised. It is common for the condition to be discovered when the horse is first saddled, the pressure proving too much for their delicate skin, often tearing it.

The majority of affected horses do not live past the age of four, either succumbing to related-injury that just does not heal, or being humanely euthanised. Some horses have survived into old age as pasture horses but utmost care must be taken to protect the skin of these horses from trauma and sun damage, and even then it is still possible for the skin to split at the back and peel off down the horse.

HERDA also follows a recessive mode of inheritance. A genetic test is now available that determines whether horses are carriers, affected or clear.

Pony Magazine Australia Volume 2 Issue 3

~ FEATURE ~ It is compulsory for horses of Lethal White Foal Syndrome particular bloodlines to be tested (LWFS) for HYPP, HERDA and LWFS to Also known as Overo Lethal White Foal be registered with the Syndrome (OLWFS), LWFS is a genetic Australian Quarter Horse disease linked to the inheritance of the Association. Horses homozygous gene for the overo pattern. Overo for HYPP are not acccepted into describes varying patterns of white in the stud book, and carrier horses horses and occurs in combination with are only accepted if they are other colours. In overo patterning, the white is generally isolated to the body, castrated/spayed.

not coming across the back or withers, and the horse will generally have a high degree of white on its face. White or dark colour may be more dominant, with the darker colour being more common.

Legs and feet are often dark and the eyes may be blue.

LWFS is associated with the inheritance of the overo gene, which generally produces minimal white pattern on a dark colour. The inheritance of LWFS is a little different to the diseases mentioned above, as one copy of the frame overo gene will produce the overo pattern (in most cases, there have been instances where there has been minimal pattern but the horse has still carried the gene), while two copies will produce a different pattern, and the disease.

This is called incomplete dominance. Horses with two copies of the gene are born seemingly normal, apart from an unusual white coat colour and two blue eyes. While these foals are generally viable through the pregnancy, an amino acid switch results in compromised development of the intestinal tract and the foal will generally die within hours of birth as they cannot pass food through their system. There is no treatment available, neither surgery nor medication being successful.

A test is available to determine carriers of the overo gene, and again carriers should not be bred together in order to avoid producing affected foals. The gene has been found in Paints, Quarter Horses, Miniature Horses, Thoroughbreds and part Arabians.

Hyperkalemic Periodic Paralysis (HYPP)

HYPP is a disorder affecting Quarter Horses, with the condition believing to have derived from the great foundation stallion Impressive, as all horses exhibiting the disease appear to descend from him. The expression of the disease varies with horses having one defective gene compared with horses containing two defective genes. Horses with two defective genes are affected more severely than those with just one.

In horses with the condition, an amino acid change results in sodium channels within the muscle cells being opened for an extended period, which leads to

Pony Magazine Australia Volume 2 Issue 3

~ FEATURE ~ muscle tremors, temporary muscle weakness, paralysis and collapse, sometimes resulting in death due to respiratory or heart failure. Horses that carry the gene are well muscled, and are of the type favoured for halter classes, hence its widespread existence. Exercise aggravates the disease and so horses are not suitable as performance animals. Feeding a diet low in potassium can decrease the symptoms. Instances of the disease varies in the different populations of Quarter Horses bred for different disciplines, i.e. halter, performance, cutting, western pleasure etc.

A test can determine the genetic status of a particular horse, and horses carrying two copies of the defective gene are refused entry into some of the registries.

Polysaccharide Storage Myopathy (PSSM) Type 1

In horses with PSSM1, their muscles are unable to store glucose. This disorder is commonly found in Draft Horses, Quarter Horses and related breeds. Clinical signs are not apparent until maturity, generally at around five years of age in Quarter Horses and even later in the heavy breeds.

Symptoms include muscle stiffness, sweating, reluctance to move, and wekness.

A genetic test can be done to determine the present of the PSSM1 gene, which is dominant and so only one copy is needed. The condition can be managed with diet.

Pony breeders may have originally thought that they were relatively safe from these diseases, however as has been recently brought to light, this is not the case at all. Any ponies which trace back to Arabian, Quarter Horse, Fell or Dales Ponies and Thoroughbreds run the risk of being carriers of hidden genetic diseases and this should be considered when designing your breeding programs.

Just because your stock have been thus far unaffected does not mean that these genes are not hidden in your program waiting to appear and cause heartbreak and chaos.

For more information on genetic testing see www.practicalhorsegenetics.com.au

Pony Magazine Australia Volume 2 Issue 3

July/August 2015 Stud Extravaganza 50% off General Adverts for Stud Promotion!

Full page $75 Half page $40 quarter page $25

FREE Stud Directory australianponymagazine@ gmail.com

~ FEATURE PONY~

The Gorgeous

Richdale Patriot From star trick pony to show pony extroadinaire How can one not fall in love with the gorgeous face of Richdale Patriot, the beautiful little chestnut who lit the show ring on fire at the recent Northern NSW Hack Championships. Known aptly as ‘Fire’ at home, this spunky little pony has a huge future ahead of him.

Richdale Patriot, or ‘Fire’ at home, is a nine year old Welsh Section A gelding by Weston Park Sherlock and from the lovely Waxwing Herod* daughter Imperial Pin Up Girl. He was bred by Judy Ritchie at Richdale Stud and is a full brother to the exquisite Supreme Champion Welsh and Australian Champion Arabian Pony Richdale Protocol. In a previous life he was a movie star, featuring in the Pony Power DVD series while he was at a riding school in Sydney, where he spent the majority of his life. He was briefly shown as a colt prior to being gelded.

Left: Richdale Patriot (Fire) ridden by Chelsea Webb and led by Mark Lilley at the Northern NSW Hack Championships.

Photo: Lorelle Mercer

Pony Magazine Australia Volume 2 Issue 3

~ FEATURE PONY~

Above: Fire, Chelsea and Mark Below: Fire with his winnings Photo: Renee Surdonjic

His current owner, Katie Webb, flew from Queensland to Sydney with daughter Chelsea in tow to view this little star, “As soon as I saw the photo of his gorgeous face I knew he had what it took to be a top show pony. We flew to Sydney and Chelsea ride him in the roundyard at SIEC … we bought him within the hour and he was on the truck the next day!” She adds, “He is not only a super well educated pony under saddle, but he is also a fully trick trained movie star! He bows, lies down and rears on command.”

Showing Fire is very much a family affair.

Katie explains, “Chelsea has weekly lessons on Fire with her amazing coach Paul Austin from PAE Equestrian. Paul’s partner Mark Lilley leads fire in Chelsea’s Leading Rein classes, so I get to sit and watch them in the ring looking gorgeous!” she also adds, “Fire is ridden by our very good friend Bianca Van Kampen in the open show ring, and he is trained by Bianca’s older sister Mikayla. It is very much a family affair between the Van Kampens, PAE and ourselves, we are all an important part of Fire’s success and we are all very much in love with this gorgeous, spunky little boy!”

Fire recently made his show ring debut at the Northern NSW Hack Championships and swept the board. He quali-

Pony Magazine Australia Volume 2 Issue 3

~ FEATURE PONY~ fied for the Grand Nationals three times over, winning Champion First Ridden Pony, Champion Childs Hunter Pony, Champion Led Hunter Pony, Champion Preliminary Hunter Pony, Champion Open Hunter Pony, and was also placed third in the Leading Rein class against highly experienced competition. “We are so excited to be qualified for Grand Nationals!” exclaims Katie, “We came home with a float full of garlands, rugs and prizes. It was so much fun!”

Fire not only has that unique look Above: Chelsea and Fire training at home and face that makes you melt instantly, he also has an amazing personality, “Fire is so special for so many reasons. It is almost impossible to find a pony that can be ridden by a four year old Below: Chelsea with child off lead, that can also win in the open show her coach Paul Austin ring,” says Katie. “He has pizazz, patience, spunk from PAE Equestrian and kindness....a big flashy trot, a huge rocking horse canter and he will go as slow as needed for the little ones or get up and boogie for the show ring. He is the ultimate “learn to ride on” pony and the ultimate “Top class Show Pony”. Ponies like this are literally one in TWENTY million!” Chelsea and Fire were offered sponsorship from Boutique Equestrian Apparel, who made Chelsea’s beautiful hunter jacket for their first show, “It just made sure Chelsea and Fire step out looking incredible,” says Katie.

Fire, Chelsea and team will no doubt continue to dazzle in the show ring. Katie, being a Dressage rider herself, hopes that they will have a go at Pony Dressage. Chelsea and Fire will be venturing out on their own in First Ridden classes within a few months and no matter what they choose to try their hand at there is no doubt Pony Magazine Australia Volume 2 Issue 3

~ FEATURE PONY~ that this lovely little pair will be turning heads and melting hearts where ever they go!

Owner Katie shares some of Fire’s habits!

“Fire has a few bad habits. “

Below: Fire with his best friend Lollies

“He is the itchiest pony in history. Never gets summer itch/ sores, but he just has to rub, itch everything. He costs us a fortune in QV Bath oil to keep his skin soft and not itchy.”

“He also has a CRAZY habit of removing hair bows from Chelsea’s hair. If he sees a hair bow, he will grab it with his teeth and rip it out of her hair and throw it across the stable!”

“He also suffers from extreme boredom in his stable at night and if he doesn’t have his plastic toys he will drink copious amounts of water and flood his entire stable with pee, costing us a fortune in shavings!” “ His BFF is a yearling Welsh B named Lollies, who is taller then he is even though he is only a yearling!”

Pony Magazine Australia Volume 2 Issue 3

~ FEATURE PONY~

Below: Fire with Bianca, Northern NSW Hack Championships Photo: Renee Surdonjic

Pony Magazine Australia Volume 2 Issue 3

~ AUTHOR PROFILE ~

AUTHOR CHRISTINE MEUNIER Turning passions into careers Christine Meunier is a long time horse enthusiast whose passion has taken her on many paths in regards to her career. She has spent time studying horses, working as an instructor, studied at the Irish National Stud, ridden endurance horses in Africa, worked with racehorses and been a TAFE teacher in equine studies. She is also a great inspiration, showing how one can turn a potentially devastating and depressing situation into something positive.

Christine has always been a horse enthusiast, her parents being supportive of her passion and leasing her a pony when she was 13. This same pony was her 14th birthday present, and from here Christine learnt all that she could about these wonderful animals, reading whatever she could get her hands on. In high school she completed a Certificate II in Horse Studies and then went on to complete a Diploma focused on breeding. Christine is currently completing a Bachelor Aboce: Christine working with Thorougbreds of Equine Science.

Below: Christine’s debut An unfortunate incident, where Christine received a novel, ‘Horse Country’ kick to the head, saw her in a coma and unable to work for quite a few months. She used her recovery time to follow another of her passions, writing, “I love reading, words in general and I love horses. I guess in that regard, it made sense for me to write, particularly after gaining so much joy from reading about horses!” she says. Her debut novel, Horse Country, was completed during this time, after ten years in the making. “My debut novel Horse Country (www.horsecountrybook.com/) is actually aimed at young adults hoping to break into the industry. It’s a realistic look at the working lives “I love reading... and I love horses. I guess in that regard, it made sense for me to write, of instructors and stud hands,” particularly after gaining so much joy from Christine explains. reading about horses!”

Pony Magazine Australia Volume 2 Issue 3

~ AUTHOR PROFILE ~ Her next novel was the first in a series of books aimed at horse-mad 8-12 year olds. This series of books, the Free Rein Series, follows the adventures of three young girls. “It is my hope that as much as the books may be entertaining, that each one teaches a moral lesson and provides facts about horses to help the readers learn as they go.” There are currently four books in the Free Rein series, with Christine having recently finished the fifth, which should be available on Kindle by June.

Christine did not only write her books, but also self-published them. “Selfpublishing means that at least my words are left as my words (errors and all), that I have the last say on the content and book cover design and that any profit made goes to the author,” she explains. Christine is also an advocate of electronic publishing, “Don’t underestimate the value of an electronic version of your book – they are cheaper to produce and will still get readers! Be sure to do your research though and get advice on good cover design and formatting your book.”

At the moment, Christine is currently awaiting the cover design for the fifth in the Free Rein series, and is also working on an adult fiction, all while raising a young family and studying, “Whether or not you choose to write about horses, they are indeed a lifelong passion and you can never stop learning about them. Get yourself stuck into as many books and magazines as you can – you never know what you’ll learn!”

Pony Magazine Australia Volume 2 Issue 3

~ AUTHOR PROFILE ~

FREE REIN SERIES Christine Meunier http://www.freereinseries.com

Horse Country

A World of Horses Christine Meunier’s debut novel

http://www.horsecountrybook.com

Pony Magazine Australia Volume 2 Issue 3

~ BOOK REVIEW~

FREE REIN #1 NEW BEGINNINGS The Free Rein series is the brainchild of Christine Meunier, the follow up to her debut novel Horse Country. Aimed at 8-12 year old horse crazy children, Free Rein follows the adventures of Jacqui King as she makes a big move interstate with her parents and brother . Jacqui is excited about the move as her parents have plans to turn the new property into an agistment centre. Jacqui is lucky enough to find other horse crazy girls at her new school and they become great friends with big plans for their horsey futures.

Christine cleverly blends education with a heart-warming story as she follows Jacqui through the big move and her new beginnings. These books are sure to be a hit with the younger generation of horse and pony mad children coming up through the ranks, whether they already own a pony or dream of owning one. Not only will they be hooked on the adventures of the girls in their pursuit of ponies, but they will also be learning new facts about horses and riding with each page they turn. Bring in a little philosophy, and you have New Beginnings. As you get further in, the characters grow with each page turned.

A beautiful start to what promises to be an additctive series.

GIVEAWAY Christine Meunier and Pony Magazine Australia are giving away a Kindle copy of both ‘New Beginnings’ and ‘Horse Country’ to two lucky readers! All you have to do is send through what your faourite pony themed novel is and a brief description of why!

Pony Magazine Australia Volume 2 Issue 3

~ NUTRITION~

The Dangers of

Frost-Affcted Grass One might assume that dry, dead looking pasture that has been affected by frost could not possibly put on weight or be harmful to ponies. Surely the frost has killed it off and it has no nutritional value. Wrong! Frost damaged grass actually undergoes stress-management processes which make it all the more dangerous for ponies, particularly those that are laminitis-prone, insulin-resistant and metabolic syndrome affected.

Certain species of grass are actively growing throughout the winter and spring period (see Carbohydrates feature in June 2014 for more information on this). When a frost occurs, the plants cope by stopping all of their processes and at this time of active growth they are quite high in soluble sugars. The soluble sugars and other non-structural carbohydrates are stored in the stem of the plant so that when conditions become more favourable they can continue to grow. This results in the stems of the grass being extremely sugary and sweet, and thus very palatable to ponies and horses, and dangerous if consumed in large quantities. Sugars and non-structural carbohydrates are easily digested in the small intestine, however when there is an overload the excess is taken through to the hindgut (large intestine) undigested. In the hindgut it is broken down via fermentation by the population of microbes that reside there.

When an excess of rapidly fermentable compounds, such as sugars and other non-structural carbohydrates, are passed through to the hindgut, the by-products of the bacterial fermentation can result in acidosis. This is where the environment of the hindgut becomes too acidic and can result in the death of a number of the beneficial bacteria, which can cause not only digestive upsets but also systemic problems resulting in laminitis and other issues. The increase of sugars in the bloodstream is also an issue as hormone levels increase.

Pony Magazine Australia Volume 2 Issue 3

~ NUTRITION~

So just because the grass is looking dry, dead and wilted in winter, do not assume that it is safe. This particular time of year is amongst the most dangerous for susceptible ponies. It is of great importance to manage your ponies’ access to frost damaged, or in fact any stressed pastures, or if possible avoid it where ponies are particularly susceptible.

WHAT ARE NONSTRUCTURAL CARBOHYDRATES (NSCs)?

Non-Structural Carbohydrates, or NSCs are constantly mentioned in equine nutrition, so why are they so important?

NSCs are, as their name suggests, are the non-structural component of the plant, such as starch ad sugars. These are the plant’s nutrient stores and supplies for growth and metabolism.

The reason NSCs are so important, particularly in equine nutrition, is because of how they are digested. NSCs are generally easily digested by the horse in the small intestine via enzymes. For this reason they are an important source of energy for performance horses, but not so desirable in high quantities for any equine, in particular overweight, laminitis prone ponies.

If there is an excess of NSCs in the diet, the extra will pass through to the large intestine where it will be subject to microbial fermentation. This can be an issue, as NSCs are rapidly fermented by microbes. When the microbes digest any type of feed in the large intesting, there are also by-products produced by the process.

An abundance of these by-products, such as lactic acid, result in a change in the hindgut environment, such as acidosis, which can kill off some of the beneficial population of microbes and interfere with digestion, as well as make the horse potentially very sick.

Pony Magazine Australia Volume 2 Issue 3

~ SNEAK PEAK~

PONY WORLD coming soon...

INTRODUCTION Pony World is a theme park entirely dedicated to ponies.

It is a pony-lover’s dream, with pony rides, pony-themed stands and displays, educational demonstrations and of course plenty of pony rides!!

The air was chilly and a light breeze sent icy whispers through the air. The sun began to peak over the horizon and changed the sky from pitch black to a pinky grey. Despite the early hour the stables were already wide awake with ever-hungry ponies awaiting breakfast. Even before Meagan, the head stablehand at Pony World, had switched on the lights they were already calling out in desperate sounding neighs and nickers. She hadn’t even made it through the gate to the stables before the chorus began. She smiled to herself and greeted each pony with a pat as they all popped their heads over their box doors, some liking the attention but food being their main motivation.

Meagan had worked there for over 15 years now, having started while still in school. She started down the bottom of course, mucking out stables, feeding, watering, grooming etc. but had worked her way up to the top and was now pretty much in charge. She knew the routine better than almost anybody else there and was well-rewarded by the owners. Meagan had gotten used to the early mornings and getting to spend all her time with the ponies, with their many different personality quirks, was a reward in itself. She couldn’t imagine herself doing anything else. The looks on the faces of the many children who came through the park were priceless.

Meagan got straight to work setting out the feeds she’d made the previous afternoon. The clang and rattle of the plastic feed buckets made the ponies call out even more loudly in anticipation. The creak of the gate and the sound of footsteps coming up the path alerted Meagan to the arrival of Becky, one of the stablehands.

Becky was greeted with neighs as well, some of the ponies also kickPony Magazine Australia Volume 2 Issue 3

~ SNEAK PEAK~

ing and pawing at their doors impatiently. She said hello to Meagan and put her bag in the staff room before heading towards the first few boxes. These boxes held four Shetland ponies, Ronnie, Miles, Maggie and Marge. She automatically caught each one and tied them all up just outside their stalls and then collected the grooming kit. She had removed all their brightly coloured rugs and had just set to work brushing the sawdust out of Miles’s tail when another girl walked into the stables. *

*

*

*

*

Kelsie gave Bernie a once over with the brush before placing the saddle blanket and saddle over his shiny white back. He turned to look at her with his kind, dark eyes and she smiled and gave his nose a rub. Kelsie loved riding as the sun came up. There was something about riding in the first glimpses of light while everyone else slept. It was ponies like Bernie that made working at Pony World a joy. He was Kelsie’s favourite pony to ride and she was lucky enough to be appointed him most mornings when she worked. Bernie’s companion Banjo was already saddled and ready so Kelsie untied their leads, hung the two bridles over her shoulders and headed off with the two ponies in tow towards the arena. Bernie and Banjo were Australian Ponies, both grey and full brothers. Besides representing their breed in the Breeds Section of the park, they also often gave ridden exhibitions, making the perfect pair due to their likeness.

Kelsie tied Bernie up in one of the yards at the side of the arena and put Banjo’s bridle on before tightening his girth and walking him into the arena. He stood obediently as Kelsie mounted and then began to warm him up.

Wisps of condensation blew out of Banjo’s nostrils as he breathed in time with his trot. Kelsie gave a slight squeeze and he gave a small pigroot before bouncing into a canter. Kelsie just smiled to herself, knowing that this was coming and bracing herself. He smoothly cantered around the arena, circling at Kelsie’s command and then going large again. She directed him to the centre and changed rein before asking for a canter on the other lead. Once again Banjo threw in a small hop before proceeding. Banjo and Bernie were the spitting image of each other, it was near impossible for most to tell them apart at first glance. Bernie was the elder of the two and Pony Magazine Australia Volume 2 Issue 3

~ SNEAK PEAK~

slightly more tractable in nature. Banjo was cheeky and a more challenging ride. Both loved to jump and would often be used in pony jumping displays. Banjo loved mounted games but could only be ridden by the more experienced rider in these shows as he would get very excited until you let him run. Bernie and Banjo were purchased as youngsters from their breeder by the owner of the park, Mrs. Malcolm, and had been shown in hand for many prizes as well as having been taken to Pony Club by a few members of the staff at different times.

Mrs. Malcolm also owned a large, fancy property outside the city limits where she gave the ponies time off from their movie star-like careers. She ran a stud, breeding Miniatures, Shetlands, Welsh Ponies (Welsh Mountain Ponies and Welsh Ponies) and also the odd Australian Riding Pony. She liked her ponies to have impeccable temperaments so that they were reliable and calm when exposed to the many challenges that being in the park involved. Only the quietest ponies could be used for the pony carousel and the pony rides and it was essential to have spares so that the ponies could be given adequate time off. While head stablehand Meagan was in charge of the day to day running of the ponies in the park, Mrs. Malcolm spent her time preparing her ponies for the show ring. Her ponies had won all over the country and many of Pony World’s stars were previous State or National Champions.

Pony Magazine Australia Volume 2 Issue 3

PONY MAGAZINE

AUSTRALIA

Catering for the pony industry in Australia

BIRTHDAY ISSUE!

PONY

MAGAZINE AUSTRALIA

GENETIC DISORDERS IN HORSES AND PONIES

PROFILE: ITCH MAGICK THE GORGEOUS RICHDALE PATRIOT COMPETITIONS

Volume 2 Issue 3 May/June 2015

PONY MAGAZINE

AUSTRALIA

Celebrating one year of publishing!!

www.ponymagazineaustralia.com