Seasoned Rider Premier Issue

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er i m Pre sue Is

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“Your connection t0 the over 40 equestrian lifestyle”

75 YEAR OLD HORSEW OMAN Still Going Str ong

R ON AN TYN AN

Irish Tenor, accomplished equestrian and hor se br eeder

HEALTHY RIDER Str etching f or Horse Riders

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“Your connection t0 the over 40 equestrian lifestyle” TABLE OF CONTENTS Premier Issue

Feature Articles 7 PREPARING YOUR OUTDOOR ARENA FOR RIDING SEASON Interlocking Grid Panel Technology By Haywood Walker

10 75 YEAR OLD HORSEWOMAN... STILL GOING STRONG Sally Scott is an inspiration to riders of all ages. By Cheryl Childs 12 HARD WORK AND HORSE SENSE ..A LOOK AT CAVALIA

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By Tera Lynn Childs

14 RONAN TYNAN Irish Tenor, accomplished equestrian and horse breeder. By Cheryl Childs 16 THE LIGHTER SIDE You may be a horse person if...

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By Anonymous

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Departments 5 FROM THE PUBLISHER’S DESK 8 SECOND TIME AROUND Horses & Retirement 11 LEGENDARY HORSES 17 TRAVEL ADVENTURES Rejuvenating in the Sonoran Desert 18 REVIEW CORRAL The Ultimate Horse Behaviour &Training Book 19 EQUESTRIAN LIFESTYLE Catering to the Equestrian Lifestyle

20 HEART AND SOUL Stories from Our Readers Foaling Time by Karen Peak 21 PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT/REVIEW 22 HEALTHY RIDER Stretching for Horse Riders By Valee More

23 HOLISTIC HORSE & RIDER Indulge Your Horse to a Healthier Diet


From The Editor’s Desk: “ If you have it, it is for life. It is a disease for which there is no cure. You will go on riding even after they have to haul you onto a comfortable wise old cob, with feet like inverted buckets and back like a fireside chair,” - Monica Dickens author, greatgranddaughter of Charles Dickens and horsewoman. That’s one of my favorite horse quotes, among others from Monica Dickens. I’m sorry to say I didn’t really care for her great grandfather’s work, but I have always enjoyed hers. She is often still quoted by her fellow horse enthusiasts today, nearly 20 years after her death. I honestly think I like that quote more now than I did when I was younger and read it for the first time, for obvious reasons. Every time I read that quote it makes me think about a number of years ago when my sister was in her mid 30’s and was speaking with someone about the fact that she owned and rode horses. The woman commented to my sister “Oh, well you’ll give that up when you’re forty.” When my sister asked her “Why is that?” she replied “You’ll be too old to ride at forty”. My sister, being a horsewoman, quickly informed she didn’t see that happening. On my sister’s 40th birthday she mounted her 5 year old year Arabian mare for the first time, so she celebrated turning 40 by being the first person to get on the mare and taking the maiden ride. My sister is now past 50 (not saying that’s old) and still riding and isn’t planning to hang up her riding boots any time soon. What is it about non-horse people that they think there is age cut off for riding? Okay, jockies retire from racing, but the sport of horse racing is different. With age comes wisdom which makes us wiser and better riders than when we were younger. I know that today I’m far more knowedgeable than I was at 18 and, in some respects, a better rider as well. I think at a certain age we begin to seek out more knowledge and want to improve our riding skills and be better horse owners in general. I believe that experience makes a better rider. A friend, and fellow horsewoman, once said to me “ age is just a number I don’t think about it,” she was 72 years old at the time. Today, at the age of 75, she is still riding and competing with her beloved mare. She also told me she thought the horses kept her and her husband young. I agree with that statement wholeheartedly. Over 50% of horse owners today are past 45 years of age and we are still going strong. We compete and ride in Endurance Rides, Reining, Hunter/Jumper, Dressage, Drill Teams, Combined Driving, 3-Day Eventing, Ranch Horse Competition and, of course, Trail Riding. We aren’t planning to retire or give up our horses - which are our passion in life. So when someone says to you will give up horseback riding when you’re past 40 or, worse yet, that you should give it because you are too old read Monica Dickens quote to them - then gallop off on your horse. yl Cher Cheryl Childs - Publisher

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Publisher: Winning Colors Media Editor: Cheryl Childs E-Mail: Editor@seasonedrider.com Associate Editor: Cathy Childs E-Mail: Marketing@seasonedrider.com Executive Art Director: Judith Evans E-Mail: PrePress@seasonedrider.com Contributing Writers: Tera Childs Iain Davis Kylie Garrett Bob Goddard Valee More Karen Peak Haywood Walker Senior Marketing Consultant Cathy Childs E-Mail: Marketing@seasonedrider.com Advertising/Marketing Consultants Western United States (California, Oregon, Washington Idaho, Nevada, Utah, Arizona, New Mexico)

E-Mail: AdsWest@seasonedrider.com Central United States (All other states) E-Mail: Marketing@seasonedrider.com Eastern United States (Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, New York Rhode Island, Connecticut, New Jersey, Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, Delaware, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida)

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Seasoned Rider Magazine is published bi-monthly by Winning Colors Media. Seasoned Rider does not endorse the content of any advertisement in this publication, nor does it warrant the accuracy of any advertisement. All photographs and copy are subject to publisher’s approval. The publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertising for any reason. At no time shall the publisher’s liability exceed the cost of the advertising space involved. © Seasoned Rider. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission from the publisher is prohibited.

SUBSCRIBE: On our website: www.seasonedrider.com Click on subscribe Pay by PayPal Or Submit Your Information Online and mail a check Or Fill out subscription form below: Name: __________________________________________ Address: ________________________________________ City:____________________________________________ State: ________ Zip:____________ Phone: ________________________ E-Mail: __________________________________________ Mail with $18.00 check to: Winning Colors Media P.O. Box 1968 Ozark, MO 65721


Preparing Your Outdoor Arena for Riding Season

Advances in interlocking grid panel technology and materials make it possible to work with nature to eliminate most problems. by Haywood Walker As the ground thaws and spring rains approach, many of us with outdoor arenas and round pens are starting to plan our recovery from the ravages of this winter. Some of us are also wondering if this “higher than normal” moisture will extend through our spring and early summer rains. The thought of going from snow and slush into weeks of mud is not pleasant to contemplate. So, perhaps some ideas on rebuilding or constructing arenas and round pens might be helpful. Conventional arena construction is based on sealing the subsoil and base from rainfall, so that there are no soft spots where low areas and mud can develop. Whether this seal uses natural or man made materials, as long as the membrane remains intact, conventional arenas remain relatively flat and mud free. Unfortunately, sooner or later nature wins this battle, the barrier is broken, water reaches the subsoil and softer spots begin to appear. These quickly become low, muddy areas which, to avoid further damage, need extra dry-out time after a rain before work can resume. Significant loss-

es of riding and training time are the ultimate result. Fortunately, thanks to recent developments in arena construction pioneered in Germany, many of the problems and inconveniences of wet weather can now be avoided. Advances in interlocking grid panel technology and materials make it possible to work with nature to eliminate most of these problems. Instead of attempting to seal off the subsoil, a permeable “platform” of interlocking grid panels is built over a compacted gravel base to support the working surface. This platform allows drainage into the base, assuring uniform soil moisture levels, and the large rigid interlocking panels support and distribute the load over a wide area, consequently no low spots can form. Because excess moisture drains from the working surface, work can often resume almost immediately after a storm. Crowning, if required, is accomplished under the platform, so the working surface is always flat. Since the panels are protected from the elements by the working surface, this platform will last indefinitely. In fact, the first arena using this technology,

built over twenty-five years ago, has required absolutely no maintenance since. Furthermore, this design provides several additional benefits, most of which apply equally to either indoor or outdoor arenas and round pens. The strong, rigid platform stays flat even when used for driving or other pattern disciplines. Because the footing is supported by this always flat structure, grooming is easier and much less frequent. The grid panel membrane is permanent and no amount of work or grooming will ever bring dust or gravel up from the subsoil. With less frequent grooming and easier moisture control, footing life is extended by fifty percent or more. Another real plus is that existing round pens and arenas can normally be upgraded easily and quickly. However, most owners agree that freedom from maintenance and the ability to use the facility virtually any time are the most important advantages. Additional information about this type of construction can be obtained by calling Haywood Walker at 866.781.4572 or emailing collin@lynwoodenterprises.com.

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By Cheryl Childs: While some people retire from their careers, move to a warm climate and take up golfing horse people rarely do! As in the case of Carol and David Dunbar who own Chocolate Horse Farm, which is a small Gypsy Vanner Horse breeding farm in Mt Vernon, Missouri. Retirement is a time to slow down and work less for many people and they might find it odd that someone would spend their retirement raising, training and showing horses. For the Dunbars retirement meant doing just that. The Dunbars imported their first Gypsy Vanners from England in 2000. Had David’s job not taken them to the countryside of England, where they became acquainted with the small colorful draft horses that the Gypsy or Romany people used to pull their carts and wagons , they

CHF Talbot’s Cracker Photo: Cathy Childs Equine Photography

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Horses & Retirement

A herd of Gypsy Vanner horses at Chocolate Horse Farm Photo:Cathy Childs Equine Photography

probably wouldn’t be breeding Gypsy Vanners today. The three horses they imported would become their breeding stock. The two colts and one filly were shipped from Europe to the United States via airlines and, of course, had to remain in quarantine before being released to their new owners. Importing horses was a learning experience for David and Carol much like the Gypsy Vanner breed itself was a learning experience, but on both fronts they were willing to learn. Gypsy Vanner horses are fairly new to the United States and for that reason Chocolate Horse Farm is very selective about its’ breeding stock and maintaining the same standards in their breeding program as the Gypsy or Romany tribes who breed them in Ireland, England and surrounding areas. It’s very important to David and Carol to make certain the horses they breed possess the same kind

temperament, intelligence and physical breed standards of the horses bred by the Gypsy people. The breed, according to the Dunbars, comes from the Gypsy or Romany tribes that have been breeding the small colorful draft horse for many years and for many uses, but mostly for driving. It is believed the breed was produced by crossbreeding native ponies such as Dales and Fell Ponies with Clyesdales and Shires that are native to Ireland and England. David and Carol do their research on the breed and the breed’s standard. They have maintained a close relationship with breeders in Europe and still refer to their expertise to help improve on their breeding program. In 2009 the Dunbars took a trip back Wales to attend a breeders open house. The open house was held at Tom Price’s farm. Price is a a well known breeder, not only in Wales, but around the world. iations which in turn led to that mare being the newest member of the herd at Chocolate Horse Farm. Producer’s Heiress became the newest


Chocolate Horse Farm: Sharing A Vision With The Gypsies and Loving Retirement

est member of the small band of mares at Chocolate Horse Farm. Erie, as she is called, joined the other mares that were imported - including CHF Spot On Molly, the first mare imported back in 2000 by the Dunbars. When Erie arrived it was believed she might be in foal and it turned out she was. David and Carol were very pleased about that. In February of this year Erie gave birth to a lovely filly - the only foal of the year for Chocolate Horse Farm. They strive for quality, not quantity, with their breeding program and are dedicated to breeding Gypsy Vanners to the standard established not only by the Gypsy Vanner Horse Society, but also established by the overseas breeders. While foals are available for purchase from time to time the Dunbars prefer to offer three year olds for sale. “Three year olds have reached the point where they can be evaluated for training etc” explains Carol. Chocolate Horse Farm is more than a breeding farm for David and Carol. They want to educate people about the Gypsy Horse. Carol will tell you that choosing a Gypsy Horse is a personal choice that requires thought and planning, so their goal is to make the process as simple as possible for those making that choice. Chocolate Horse Farm has attended sev-

eral horse expos including Equine Affaire, Horse Fest, Equifest and the Women and Horses Expo. In 2009 Carol was a presenting speaker at the Women and Horses Expo on the topic of Breeding the Performance Gypsy. “We want people to see the versatility of the Gypsy Horse” says David “that’s why we show our David Dunbar at Equifest 2010 with one of the Gypsy Vanner Horses from Chocolate gypsy horses”. Their focus for Horse Farm. 2010 and 2011 has been on getPhoto: Cathy Childs Equine Photography ting their Gypsy horses into the show ring even more. The mare David and Cracker were beaten by Carol Molly took several blue ribbons at and CHF Traveler, who took the Blue in Gypsy shows in 2004 and 2005. Molly’s that class. first foal , Gypsy Rose Lee, is being If you’re curious why their farm is shown successfully in Dressage by her named Chocolate Horse Farm it’s because owner. of David’s love for chocolate and his CHF Talbot’s Cracker spent the summer fudge making. of 2010 being schooled in Dressage with The Dunbars will keep striving to keep a youth rider, who also competed successthe Gypsies’ vision for the Gypsy Vanner fully on Cracker at the Oklahoma State Breed alive and well in the Untied States. Fair in September. Cracker is also broke Visitors are always welcome and if to drive and, with David in the driver’s you’re lucky enough to visit on fudge seat, brought home ribbons in Driving at making day you will be able to sample the same show. David and Cracker also David’s delicious chocolate confection. brought home a Blue Ribbon in a Western Pleasure class in October 2010 at another horse show. At the same show David and Cracker took a second place ribbon in a driving class. In that friendly competition

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75 Year Old Horsewoman.....

Still Going Strong “I would have to say they (horses) help keep us young” says Sally Scott by Cheryl Childs Every horseman/woman has this vision, in our head, of the future - still riding and going strong even in our 70’s and 80’s. Of course we hope that’s a reality when we reach that age. Well for 75 year old Sally Scott of Rogersville, Missouri that is her reality. Sally Scott started riding when she was six years old and is still going strong. Sally, a retired teacher, is still raising, training and showing horses. Nowadays she finds herself being the senior most rider in the show ring, but she will quickly tell you that’s not something she thinks about much. Horses are a way of life for Sally. She and her husband, Duane, have raised and trained horses for 40 plus years. “ I would have to say they help keep us young,” Sally admits. Sally is no stranger to the show ring or the winner’s circle. She has taken home several Grand Championships and Reserve Championships in her career. Sally competes in Western Horsemanship, Ranch Horse, Open Trail, Working Cow Horse, Reining, and Cutting. All of those events are physically demanding, and would be for someone 30 years old, yet for Sally it’s just what she loves to do. Fellow horsewomen of any age who compete against Sally or just watch her in the show ring will quickly tell “you I hope

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I’m that good at her age”. or “ I wish I was that good now”. When you see Sally in the saddle you’re struck not by her age, but her horsemanship. It’s that incredible horsemanship that brings home all the trophies. Sally and her Fox Trotter mare, A Thrill a Minute, are always open for new challenges. For the last three years they have entered the Women and Horses Versatility Challenge. This three phase competition includes horsewomanship, obstacle course and freestyle. In the freestyle phase the competitors need to use their imagination and creativity and are encouraged to use props, costumes and music while riding their horses. The horse/rider team with the highest combined point total from all three phases wins the Challenge. Sally Scott and her mare won that Challenge in 2008 and 2009. In 2010 they came in a close second. Again Sally found herself competing against women younger than she and ,in fact, a couple of the competitors were teenagers. When her fellow competitors asked Sally never hesitated to proudly to tell her age. “ Some of them told me that I inspired them,” Sally explained and that was fine with her. “ I’m pretty proud of what I do,” Sally says. A Thrill a Minute is a mare that Sally

raised and trained herself, which makes the wins in the Show Ring and at competitions like the Women and Horses Versatility Challenge even more special for Sally. When asked about her age, in reference to her riding, showing and, of course, winning Sally explained, “They say age is just a number.” Sally Scott should inspire all of us, whether we are in our 30’s or our 60’s, to keep riding. So next time you hear someone say, “ Well I’m getting a little too old to ride. It’s not like when I was younger and more limber” tell them about Sally Scott, who is still in saddle riding, competing and taking on new challenges at the age of 75. Photos Above: Left: Sally Scott (r) and Susan Engle (l) share friendship and camaraderie at Women and Horses Versatility Challenge in 2008. Sally placed first and Susan placed second in the challenge. Photo courtesy Karen Graddy. Right: Sally Scott competing at the Women and Horses Versatility Challenge in 2010. Sally came in second by a scant margin. Photo courtesy: Cathy Childs Equine Photography


L E G E N D A RY HORSES King P-234

“When Jess Hankins bought the colt in 1937 for $800, the folks in Rocksprings thought he had grossly overpaid for King.�

King P-234 was one of the most influential foundation sires in the American Quarter Horse. Probably no American Quarter Horse is considered a cornerstone of the breed more than King P-234. That a horse, born so long before the association that he helped become the largest registry in the world was formed, could have such an impact is testimony to his greatness. Kings bloodlines trace to some of the truly great pre AQHA quarter horses. Double bred Traveler, as well as single

lines to Sykes Rondo, Billy, and Yellow Jacket not only gave him regal parentage, but also combined in that once in a lifetime gene mix that happens to be just right. The sire of King was a hard-knocking match race horse named Zantanon. Known as the Mexican Man o'War, his sire was a legend himself. He was renowned for his ability to run even under the worst of conditions. Originally named Buttons by his breeder, Manuel Benavides Volpe of Laredo, Texas, King became royalty when his name was changed to King while owned by Byrne James of Encinal, Texas. Byrne played professional baseball for the New York Giants. The second name was certainly a better fit. When Jess Hankins bought the colt in 1937 for $800, the folks in Rocksprings thought he had grossly overpaid for King. However, by the time 1940

rolled around and the young stallion had a few foals on the ground, everyone began to realize that Hankins had made a shrewd buy. Probably no foundation sire put more athletic ability and cow in his offspring. This was evidenced by the popularity of his great sons, such as Poco Bueno, Royal King, Continental King and Power Command. He produced many champions in a everything from Cutting to Halter as well as racing champions. He was inducted into the Quarter Horse Hall Of Fame. King died in 1958 at the age of 26. He left a legacy of 658 foals born over 23 crop years, and made an imprint on the Quarter Horse industry that will never be forgotten.

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Hard Work and Horse Sense.... a Look at Cavalia by Tera Lynn Childs

The horses make it look easy. Make an entrance on stage, play around with the performers, and gallop off stage. Repeat seventeen times. While this might seem like all it takes to pull off the eighteen act spectacle that is Cavalia, the reality is far more involved. Imagine setting up a 110 foot-high big top tent that takes twelve days to erect using a crew of 150. Then add 2,500 tons of sand to form the stage. And a stable covering over 15,000 square feet, a warm-up tent, a staff cafeteria, and three other tents that make up the "Cavalia Village." Fill that stable with forty-seven horses, most of which are stallions and not a mare among them, and ask them to perform on command every night. Is it any wonder, then, that the 110 person touring company likes to linger at a location? Not when moving means loading all that bulk into 71 trucks and heading up the road. (Or into the air- when the show travels a long distance the horses get to travel in style on a 747. ) Cavalia has been touring the country since 2003 and, other than occasional breaks on leased ranches, like Sylvester Stallone's "Hidden Valley," has been performing non-stop all that time. How do they keep their four-legged artists performing fresh and consistent over such an extended road trip? There may be several answers, all of which center around animal behavior. First, they practice "Ethological" dressage, or Horse Whispering. Lead trainers (and star performers) Frederic Pignon and Magali Delgado lead by positive reinforcement rather than intimidation. On stage, it is obvious that Frederic and Magali are the acknowledged leaders of the herd, even when three stallions are performing in extremely close proximity. By taking this role, their physical cues compel the horses to perform. Another aspect of animal behavior they employ is exploiting and encouraging a horse's natural interests. A horse who enjoys playing with water in pasture gets to splash around on stage. Iman, a gray Lusitano stallion, likes to stick out his tongue; and gets the chance to do that every night before an audience of 2,000. If a horse is asked to do something he already likes to do, it is certain to be easier to get him to do that every night.

Photo:Tera Lynn Childs

Photo:Tera Lynn Childs

More About Cavalia Cavalia was started by one of the cofounders of the famed Cirque du Soleil, Normand Latourelle. When Normand left Cirque du Soleil he started another performance production. In the late 1990’s he added one act with four Quarter Horses. That one act, which basically consisted of the horses walking across the stage, became the most talked about act in the show. A light bulb 12

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went on, and Cavalia was born. Normand, a non-horse person, came across a video tape of Frederic Pignon and Magali Delgado. They were well known for their skill with horses. He set off to France to meet with the couple. Through a chance meeting on the streets of Nimes, France he was invited to the couple’s farm where they performed an “at liberty” act in a field. The

couple are now co-direc-tors of Cavalia. Magali Delgado, whose family breeds Lusitano horses near Avignon, France, grew up with horses. She and husband Frederic Pignon are the most featured riders in Cavalia. All of the Lusitano horses used in the act are raised by Magali’s family. (Magali’s parents were the first breeders of Lusitano horses in France. They also own


Photo courtesy: Cavalia

Cavalia also uses animal behavior to overcome stage fright. New horses are often introduced to performing first with a large group, allowing them time to get used to the smells, sounds, and sensations of being on stage before they have to perform solo. Their knowledge of animal behavior is perhaps nowhere more important than in the selection of new colts, which does not happen very often--the horses of Cavalia are in this for the long haul. The key characteristics of a Cavalia colt are maturity, manners, and a need for speed; galloping is a must. It takes a great deal of work and heart, behind the scenes, to make this show happen, but the riders, trainers, and staff manage to make every aspect of the performance look effortless. Cavalia, dubbed the “Cirque due Hay” by the San Francisco Chronicle, continues to trek across the country. If you are fortunate enough to have an opportunity to see these beautiful horses and talented performers it is well worth your time.

Photo courtesy: Cavalia

Tera Lynn Childs is a free-lance writer and author of Young Adult books. She was put on a horse’s back before she was a year old and was riding on her own when she was six.Although she is currently without horse she spent many hours riding many miles on her Welsh/Arab gelding, Squire.

the famed Lusitano stallion - Perdignon). Magali’s specialty is classical dressage. Magali’s sister, Estelle, is also a featured performer in Cavalia. She is trained in classical dressage, trick riding, and Roman riding. Richie Suarez, a fifth generation circus performer, trains all of the draft horse performers used in Cavalia.

All of the horses used in Cavalia are either stallions or geldings. Besides Lusitanos there are Quarter Horses, Paint Horses, Canadian Horses, Percherons, Belgians, Spanish Horses, and three Appaloosa colts.

Photo courtesy: Cavalia

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Ronan Tynan Singer & Avid Horseman Ronan Tynan is from Johnstown, in County Kilkenney, Ireland. He grew up on his parents’ dairy farm with his parents, grandfather, sister Fiona, and brother Tom. He also grew up around horses. His father was a horseman and his grandfather a master of the hunt. Ronan started riding at the age of ten. Riding horses gave Ronan freedom, friendship, and confidence to deal with obstacles in his life. Learning to be a good horseman didn’t come easily for Ronan, who was born with a deformity below the knee that kept him from walking without the aid of artificial limbs. He had to learn on his own, because he couldn’t be taught by his father or grandfather, as his siblings had been taught. Ronan’s balance in the saddle was different than theirs so they couldn’t give him advice. That didn’t deter Ronan from learning to ride and knowing horses were always going to be a part of his life. Ronan showed ponies when he was young. His first pony show was a gymkhana in his home town of Johnstown. When he was fourteen years old he began jumping and entered his first jumping show. After his Grandfather passed away, when he was teenager, Ronan became more determined to improve his riding skills. He worked hard and practiced and began winning on his ponies. Then he began winning on horses. Ronan started competing in pointto-point races ( a 3 mile steeplechase). He did well enough to compete at the national level and then at the international level. Competing on horseback taught him he could compete on a level playing field with others. Ronan continued to ride and

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compete through his teen years often, as he will admit, neglecting his schoolwork. When he was 17 years old he won the North Kilkenny point to point race on his horse My Time. That was a special win for Ronan . It was at a turning point in his life when he knew he had to become more serious about his education.. That spring and summer he had great success with the horses he was riding. He and his father attended several shows and he came home with ribbons as well as trophies. He and his horse, Cora Lady, were quite a team that season. Once in college horses were less the central part of his life, but he knew some

by Cheryl Childs

day that would be different. It was during that time that Ronan was involved in a motorcycle accident and , due to the extensive damage sustained to his legs, doctors amputated his legs below the knee. Ronan overcame incredible odds and never let his physical disabilities stop him from living his life to the fullest. He continued his education, becoming one of the first disabled persons to be admitted to, and graduate from, the National College Of Physical Education. He competed in sports events such as swimming and track and field during that time, winning numerous gold medals and setting world records.


After graduating he worked for a time for a company in the prosthetics industry, but then chose to attend medical school. While in medical school he also kept working on his singing, which would become the focus of his life later. After graduating from Trinity College he began a new career as a doctor. He specialized in orthopedic sports injuries. Ronan later became a member of the famed Irish Tenors. In 1996 Ronan returned to riding. He purchased a mare, named Ballybeg Queen, that he showed on the jumping circuit. At the same time he had a 3 year old Throughbred filly in training to race. Her name was Siog, which means “fairy” in Irish. He and his father enjoyed going to the track to watch the filly race. Ronan’s father enjoyed anything to with horses and would go with him when he

showed, as well. In 1997 Ronan qualified his mare, Ballybeg Queen, for the Royal Dublin Society Horse Show. He managed to compete on the mare, despite the fact that weeks earlier he had been bucked off another horse and ended up with a broken pelvis. Competing in that show was the achievement of a dream for Ronan. In 1998 Ronan competed in Arnheim, Germany with his beloved mare, Uptown Lady , representing Northern Ireland at the International Championships. They placed 6th individually and the team placed 3rd. It was the pinnacle of Ronan’s career as a horseman. Today Roman doesn’t compete, but he still enjoys riding and watching the horses he raises compete in shows such as the Royal Dublin Horse Show. Even

though Ronan may not get back to Ireland as much as he would like he always tries to be at the Royal Dublin when one of his horses is competing. His farm back in Ireland, Warrenstown Stud, is in his hometown of Johnstown in County Kilkenney. The Warrenstown Stud has 12 broodmares. The stallion, Warrenstown You 2, (an approved Irish Warmblood stallion who represented Ireland as a 5 year old in the World Championship) stands at stud. When speaking about this stallion Ronan will tell you, with admiration in his voice, that You 2 is a very talented horse. At Warrenstown Stud they breed a combination of French bred horses crossed with Irish 3/4 bred Sport Horses and French bred horses crossed with the Irish Thoroughbred. They breed for show jumping and 3 day eventing, as well as dressage. They sell horses internationally, including here in the United States. Warrenstown You 2 has an outstanding show record and has competed around the world with rider Shane Breen - including winning the Grand Prix at Comporta, Portugal in February 2011 and taking a 5th Place at the Dormund Grand Prix. Ronan lives most of the time in Boston now, because of his singing career. Ronan has sung the National Anthem at many major league baseball games in New York and in Boston. Horses play a part in Ronan’s life even where his singing is concerned. He sang at the Closing Ceremonies of the Alltech World Equestrian Games in September of 2010. In May of 2011 Ronan was awarded the first Alltech Humanitarian Award by Alltech Founder and President Pearse Lyons. Ronan’s dream is to have one of the horses he has bred qualify for the Olympics and represent Ireland.

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THE LIGHTER SIDE: You might be a horse person if............ You walk into a "ritzy restaurant" with your friends after a full day of showing horses wearing dirty tee shirts, jeans, boots, and spurs and you really don't care. The car you drive to work everyday hasn't been washed in a year, but the truck and trailer you use on weekends is washed before and after every horse show. You often sneak furtively into laundromats and pretend that you really didn't just put that stinky, filthy horse blanket into the comforter-sized machine. You buy business suits that will double as a showmanship jackets. You have more pictures of your horses in your office than you have of your family. You dress like a lawyer on weekdays, and someone who needs a lawyer on your days off. You hate posing for pictures unless you're on your horse. The only picture you have of your spouse just happens to have been taken the one (and only) time you let him/her ride your horse. You buy duct tape by the case, and carry a roll in your pocketbook, your briefcase, and the console of your car. You realize that finding a horseshoe truly is lucky because you've saved ten bucks. You get your income tax refund and the first thing you do is head for the tack shop. You'll drive an hour in a snowstorm to ride your horse, but

God forbid you have to drive 5 minutes to the store to buy groceries. Your friends no longer ask to get together with you on a weekend afternoon because they know you'll say "I can't, I have a show/penning/rodeo/trail ride." You consider a pristine golf course as a waste of good pasture land. Every time you drive past a construction site, you think how you could use all that lumber at the barn! Your horse gets new shoes more often than you. Your boyfriend/girlfriend/spouse complains that you love your horse more then you love him/her and you answer "And your point is?" Your boyfriend/girlfriend/spouse does something nice for you, and you say "good boy/girl" and pat him/her on the neck. You're trying to pass someone in a crowded hallway and instead of saying "excuse me" to him/her, you cluck at them instead. You meet a business associate for a breakfast meeting and they reach over the breakfast table to pick hay out of your hair. No one wants to ride in your car because they'll get sweet feed and hay all over their clothes... But hey, that's OK!! You'd have to rearrange all the tack to make room for them anyway! The first bills you pay each month are all horse-related. You choose your new dog by which breed is best with horses.

Taura Farms

Quali Quali t y foals, foals, 2 and 3 year year olds for for sale by: by: Rotspon, Liberty Liberty Gold, Don Vino, Vino, Quarterback, Don’t Don’t Worry Worry and Ferr Ferroo

www.taur af arms.com

417-466-7774

Located in Mt. Vernon, Vernon, Missouri

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© Winning Colors Media

This is what the mar es at Taur a Farms pr oduce: Y OUR NEXT DRES S AGE PROSPECT!


TRAVEL

D V E N T U R E S

Riding and Rejuvenation in the Sonoran Desert By Mark Gochman

It seems there are ever fewer places left where one can truly escape the hustle and bustle of the daily routine. One such place is Rancho de la Osa, a guest ranch located in the pristine beauty of the Sonoran Desert, about an hour outside of Tucson, Arizona. Surrounded by the Buenos Aires National Wildlife Refuge, and with a seemingly endless expanse to ride, the Ranch is a wonderful combination of solitude, warm weather, friendly people, incredible cuisine, and well trained horses. The Ranch is secluded and private, with only 21 guest rooms, and over the years has hosted politicians and movie stars. Famed for its "five star" cuisine, the Ranch features creative Southwestern fusion cooking. Guests congregate for meals in a friendly atmosphere in the Hacienda dining room. It was a wonderful feeling enjoying the remoteness and scenic beauty of the area with others searching for this same kind of experience. I visited the Ranch with my family, some of whom are non riders, and there was plenty to do for everyone. While the Ranch offers rides at all different paces, much of the riding we did emphasized walking and taking in the serenity of the region. The horses are gentle quarter horses, suitable for all riding levels. Some rides take riders up into the surrounding Baboquivari Mountains for a look down at the magnificent scenery. More advanced riders can arrange for trotting and loping/cantering rides. The rides are filled with classic images of the American Southwest, with enormous cactuses and old abandoned ranch houses. Our guides on the rides allowed us ample time to absorb and appreciate the natural beauty and magical serenity of the desert. The nearby Wildlife Refuge has large deer and antelope herds, as well as many varieties of birds, including hawks and eagles. Birdwatching is one of the main activities that visiting non riders can enjoy. The surrounding area is also great for hiking and the Ranch has plenty of bicycles on hand for those who want to spend some time mountain biking. At different times of year the Ranch also hosts wine and beer tasting and special culinary weekends. One of the things we enjoyed the most was a guest rodeo the Ranch put on, which was fun for adults and children alike. There is also a hot tub and a pool, for romantic evenings under the stars.

Rancho de la Osa is part of an old Spanish land grant, and much of the flavor of the history of the region is captured in the Hacienda dining room that dates to the 1800's, and is filled with beautiful Mexican antiques. The Ranch has a long and fascinating history, and at one time was home to American Indians and Spanish Conquistadors. While isolated and somewhat rustic, Rancho de la Osa still offers massages and other spa type activities. The guest buildings are made from clay from the Ranch, and the rooms are simple, with inviting fireplaces and without televisions or phones to interrupt the peacefulness. Quiet evenings were passed watching the stars, and sipping margaritas, prepared in the historic Cantina, which was built in the 1700's. The sky in this region is famed for its darkness and clarity, which makes for incredible stargazing. Every evening at dinner the combination of wonderful food and friendly conversation was a perfect cap to our days riding in the desert. We really enjoyed sitting at the long communal dining table in the Hacienda eating with other families, many of whom visited the Ranch every year. The pleasant company, open expanse, amazing meals and long rides through the serene and beautiful landscape left us rejuvenated, and even after leaving we still felt ourselves carrying some of the magic and wonder of the Sonoran Desert. Copyright Equestrian Adventurer Media, LLC

Seasoned Rider

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ReviewC o r r a l The Ultimate Horse Behavior and Training Book by Linda Tellington Jones Linda Tellington- Jones created the Tellington Method three decades ago and has written numerous books, and done presentations and demonstrations world wide. This book is an enlightening and revolutionary solution for the 21st century and Linda brings all of her experience to this book. In this book she covers problems literally from A to Z. It covers problems on the ground, in the saddle and health problems as well. The book is broken down into three parts. It begins with an overview of the Tellington Method and the evolution of it. The reader learns about Linda and, as she refers to it, the “Aha Moment” which set the Tellington Method in motion. Part two of the book contains 73 common behavioral, training and health issues many horse people face. The readers will find solutions to those problems. The third part of the book contains the complete body of work that

makes up the Tellington Method. Readers will find high quality illustrations with step by step instructions. This section includes the The Tellington Method, Ground Work and Ridden Work. The book has full color photographs, as well as illustrations, making an easy read. Starting with Aggressive Behavior toward other horses and ending with Weaving in the stall Linda runs the gamut of problems. In addition,health issues are covered from Colic, to Shock and Tying Up. The book covers problems in the saddle such as shying, ring sour, overcollection and not standing while mounted, to mention a few. Linda gives the reader great advice on how, through TTouch, those problems can be solved. I liked the Guide to TTouch by Category and Type. This makes for a handy index. If you’re looking for Tiger TTouch or Clouded Leopard TTouch you just check the guide and turn to the page. Believe me, I have

The pioneering work of Linda Tellington-Jones, PhD (Hon) has its roots in a philosophy that sees all beings -humans and animals alike -- as reflections of a Divine Whole. The Tellington Method was first created 4 decades ago as a system of animal training, healing and communication that allows people to relate to animals in a deeper, more compassionate way -- a way that furthers inter-species connection and honors the body, mind and spirit of both animals and their people. The Tellington Method utilizes a variety of techniques of touch, movement and body language to affect behavior, performance, and health, and to increase an animal’s willingness and ability to learn in a painless and anxietyfree environment. Linda’s highly effective and revolutionary approach to working with animals brought her world wide recognition, and it was out of this success that Tellington TTouch for humans has arisen, emerging as an important addition to the increasingly respected world of alternative healing practices. The method for horses, first developed in the 1970’s, is known as TTEAM (Tellington TTouch Equine Awareness 18

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opened this book myself and had an “ Aha Moment” after reading it. Linda brings so much to the pages of this book including her vast experiences from being an Endurance Rider who completed the Tevis Cup six times, horse show judge, Pony Club instructor and founding member of the California Dressage Society. This book should be on every horse person’s bookshelf or in the barn - no matter if they are trainer, instructor, show horses, endurance ride or pleasure ride this book has something to offer everyone.

Method). In the 1980’s, Tellington TTouch broadened to include the world of companion animals, developing techniques that deepen mutual trust and understanding and strengthen the human/animal bond. During this period, TTouch work was also introduced as an effective and valuable method to reduce stress in wild life rehabilitation and to enhance the well-being of animals in zoos. As an internationally acclaimed authority on animal behavior, training and healing, Linda has given presentations and demonstrations on her TTEAM method at veterinary conferences, universities, equestrian expositions, North American Handicapped Riding Association and the Delta Society world conferences, therapeutic riding associations, Olympic training centers, wildlife rehabilitation conferences, and zoos throughout the world. Through her non-profit organization, Animal Ambassadors International®, she supports projects of children working with animals to enhance understanding, compassion and quality of life for both humans and animals. Courtesy: www.ttouch.com


Wine Saddles Up at Chile’s Viña Casa Silva By Kylie Garrett Considered an emblematic symbol of Chilean identity and culture, the traditional Huaso is a Chilean horseman who, for centuries, has carried on the rural traditions of the country’s heartland. Among those rural traditions, wine enjoys a tenured history right in the backyard of the Huaso’s prime agricultural territory in central Chile. Perhaps nowhere moreso do the two Chilean traditions of wine and horses coexist more cohesively than at Chile’s Viña Casa Silva, a Colchagua Valley family-owned and operated winery where rows of century old vineyards are surrounded by a full-size polo pitch, professional rodeo stadium, horse-jumping academy and stables home to more than 150 horses. At the helm, Viña Casa Silva Managing Director and fifth generation wine purveyor, Mario Pablo Silva continues his family’s legacy as an award-winning wine producer and an award-winning, active member of Chile’s polo community. A man of many hats, Mario Pablo just recently served a four-year tenure as President of the Chilean Polo Federation from 2008 to 2011, and is currently Vice President of Wines of Chile, the trade association that represents the interests of Chilean wine producers. On the Silva’s 740-acre Viña Casa Silva estate, Mario Pablo and his family’s passions for wine and horses unite. Guests are welcome to ride horses along the vineyards of original vines from Bordeaux planted in 1912 and skilled equestrians can burst hurdles in the shade of the Andes at Viña Casa Silva’s Polo Academy. While sipping on a glass of Casa Silva wine from the century-old vines that paint the landscape, visitors are encouraged to visit the on-site restaurant overlooking the full-size polo field where professionals and many members of the Silva family frequently practice and compete. Over at the Viña Casa Silva’s Huaso rodeo stadium, a stone’s throw from the polo pitch, the Silva family hosts regular community gatherings and rodeo demonstrations, an outdoor tradition where friends, family and neighbors can commiserate and relax. The winery even has its own team, “Corral Doña Dominga” that competes at the national level with outstanding results. When he isn’t tending to his horses or riding alongside his five children, Mario Pablo spends much of his time tending to his other passion, wine. Mario Pablo lives by a winemaking credo focused on premium estate bottled wine reflective of not only the region, but the family’s commitment to the lifestyles and traditions of Chilean culture, like polo and rodeo. Today, as the owner and managing director of Viña Casa Silva, Mario Pablo has established the family-owned and operated, horse-friendly winery as an important fixture in Chile’s new generation of premium wine producers and more specifically, as a leader in the development and understanding of Chile’s trademark wine, Carmenère. Widely distributed in the United States, Vina Casa Silva is a recognized worldclass producer of authentic, hand-crafted Chilean wine.

EQUESTRIAN

LIFESTYLE Celebrating the Spirit of the Horse with Equestrian Home Decor for all Horse Lovers!

www.equestrianinfluence.com

Photos to Art

Send us a photograph of your horse and we will transform it into a framed watercolor painting on canvas.

417-861-7994 E-mail: cathycphotos@gmail.com


Foaling Time

H <

Heart and Soul-

Stories from Our Readers

By Karen Peak Is there anything more precious in the world than a newborn foal? Well, maybe human babies‌ but in the animal kingdom I think that foals definitely take the cake for cuteness; their big eyes so wide in wonderment, their hair so soft and clean, and their mile-long-legs so wobbly. Many an hour I have sat in the corner of a stall watching in amazement as these sweet little darlings experience their first hours of life. As most mares prefer to foal at night, it is only fair to say that a large percentage of the time I have spent in the barn gawking at these babies have been in the wee hours. Ask me about foaling season and most of the time I will gripe about all the lost sleep. BUT the truth be known, exhausting or not, I absolutely LOVE being in the barn in at night checking on expectant mares or watching the newborn foals! There is nothing else like night time in a barn full of horses. The heavy coolness (okay, sometimes really COLDNESS!) of the night air weighs upon you as you bundle up in blankets or coats. The comforting aromas of hay, horses and yes, even manure, linger in the still night air. As the noise of daytime living is asleep, it leaves the path clear for nighttime sounds to be heard; sounds that we often miss during the day because there is so much else to listen to. An occasional whinny or nicker, or a heavy sigh

as the old mare in the last stall lies down to rest her weary legs. The soft munching sounds as the horses quietly enjoy their hay‌ and then a dog can be heard barking in the distance. The munching stops for a moment as the horses briefly listen to see what the commotion is all about, and then resume almost immediately as they are sure that there is no danger. The sounds envelope you, surrounding you so completely that you become a part of them. And if you listen really, really close you can even hear the horses' breathe, and it will seem as if your breath is theirs and theirs is yours. It is times in the barn like this that I am reminded why I have horses. It is so easy to get caught up in the day to day chores associated with horse ownership; feeding, cleaning stalls, exercising, hauling hay, breaking ice, etc‌ and especially in cold weather the cons seem to far outweigh the pros! But come

springtime and foaling season, we are given the opportunity to reconnect with our passion. Along with the excitement of welcoming the new little lives of the precious God sent foals, we also are put into a position to enjoy being surrounded with these often passed over sensations; sensations that warm and comfort our horse loving souls. Night time hours spent in the barn at foaling time are magical reminders of how special and wonderful our horses are, and how amazing that time spent just sharing space with them, can be. So even if you don't have any babies due this Spring, give yourself a treat and go spend some quality time with your horses. At night. In the barn.

If you have a touching, heartfelt story to tell submit it to: The Seasoned Rider e-mail: seasonedrider@gmail.com Subject: Heart & Soul Story should be approximately 550-600 words. You may submit one high resolution color photograph (300 dpi, jpg). Be sure to include the name of the photographer. 20

Premier Issue 2012


By Seasoned Rider Reviewer Flies Be Gone Monster Fly Traps are truly an effective way to reduce the fly population around your stable area without using dangerous pesticides. When I first put two Monster Fly Traps up near my stable area I wasn’t convinced that they would work, having tried many other products that were supposed to be effective. The flies in and around the stalls were horrible this summer. I would go out in the morning and see 20-25 flies would hanging on my horses’ eyes plus others hanging on their bodies, so I didn’t think anything was going to reduce those flies and give my horses some relief. Three days later I noticed fewer flies, including those pesky face flies. One week later the fly population was reduced by fifty percent. Two weeks later it was down by 80-90 percent. Monster Fly Traps most definitely reduced the fly population around my stable and gave my horses much needed relief from summer flies. I even gave a couple to fellow horse owners and the reviews were the same. They thought they were great and wanted to know where they could get their own Monster Fly Traps. As one friend said “ They are wonderful,”. I like the fact that they use natural biomass as bait making them safe, bio-degradable and non-toxic for use around animals and humans. I also like the fact that are completely self-contained, require no power source, and are disposable. They come with easy directions, they are easy to put up and even easier to dispose of. All you do is add water and little of your soil and hang them up. The company has been around since 1981, and the traps are used in 27 countries worldwide. I have no idea how I missed this great product for so many years, but they will hang in my stable during those hot summer fly months.

Their motto is “18 Billion Flies Can’t Be Wrong”. I agree and so do my horses. For more information: www.monsterflytrap.com To submit your product to be reviewed contact: The Seasoned Rider Reviewer e-mail: seasonedrider@gmail.com Subject: Product Review

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT/R eview

Flies Be Gone Monster Fly Traps

Dressage & Equestrian Instruction for Riders of All Levels Horse Training • Instruction • Clinics • Horse Tours Private ~ Semi-Private ~ Group Lessons Mary Rose Member British Horse Society, USDF, USCTA Dripping Springs, TX www.maryrosedressage.com mary@maryrosedressage.com 512-589-3796 Seasoned Rider

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HEALTHY RIDER Health, Fitness, and Safety

Stretching for Horse Riders by Valee More

Stretching for Good Posture - The Psoas Muscle This is a stretch for the deep psoas muscle that when tight compresses the lumber spine, tilts the pelvis and can contribute to sciatica and lumber pain. In horse riders if this muscle is tight it prevents the rider being able to stretch the leg back and keep the heel in alignment with the shoulder. It also causes anterior tilt which is a sway back and if it one muscle is tighter than the other, can cause one hip to be higher than the other and the toe pointing more outward. The psoas is a very strong and powerful muscle. It helps the body bend towards the ground and sideways, and is the prime mover for lifting the leg up when walking. Tightness Test Wearing loose fitting clothing lie on the floor and bring one leg up to your chest. Keep your head on the floor. If the psoas muscle is tight on the opposite leg, the back of the thigh will lift off the floor. Repeat for the other leg. Caution - with all stretches do not create pain. Psoas Stretch Sit on the edge of a table where your feet will not touch the ground. You may like to

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put something on it such as a folded blanket for comfort. Gently roll back bringing one leg up to your chest (with head still on the table). The hanging leg is doing the stretch and should not be touching the table. Allow the leg to stretch down to the ground, but keep your body straight. You could add ankle weights to help the stretch. Hold the position for 30 seconds then repeat with the opposite leg. Repeat 2 more times holding the position for up to a minute or longer if comfortable.

Valee More has a horse riding background and is trained in remedial massage, craniosacral therapy and orthobionomy. She loves helping horse riders with awareness of their posture, releasing tight muscles and pain, and helping to realign their posture to assist in their riding. She empowers clients with self-help techniques such as stretching specific muscles and learning to use the body in a more balanced way. Valee guarantees pain relief during sessions. She also works with horses with Reiki and craniosacral therapy. Her websites are www.animalhealing.co.nz and www.theoasisclinicltd.com


KAM, which was started by talented nutritionist, Gabriele Sutton, specializes in equine nutrition and using all natural products. They believe that every equine problem can be helped or solved with the use of a natural nutritional diet. Providing your “easy keeper” horse with the best nutrition is hard enough, especially with the millions of products out on the market. Yet, what are you to do if your horse is not an “easy keeper” or if your “easy keeper” suddenly surprises you with a bout of colic or some other ailment. The answer is to just give him some “Cookies with a Clue.” You have your colicky horse with the super sensitive stomach or your overweight horse that no matter what the diet still seems to need a new girth every week. There’s the older horse with arthritis that has some sort of negative side effect to every drug. Your horse might be the off-the-track Thoroughbred who can’t be ridden for two days after receiving supplements because he gets “hot.” Maybe you have a show horse that you are scared to give anything because of all the drug rules and regulations. There’s also the worry wart horse that thinks every trailer ride, stall change and body clip is going to end his life. If any of these describe a horse you know then you are in luck because KAM Animal Services has provided a quick, easy and safe solution to just about any ailment. “Cookies with a Clue!” is here to help. There are five types of cookies to choose from and all you have to do is choose the best fit for your horse. And since the trusted nutritionists at KAM were the masterminds behind these cookies, you can be assured they are 100% natural. KAM, which was started by talented nutritionist, Gabriele Sutton, specializes in equine nutrition and using all natural products. They believe that every equine problem can be helped or solved with the use of a natural nutritional diet. Their mission is to help customers implement a specific well-balanced diet using high quality natural feeds. KAM’s staff of equine professionals - including veterinarians, researchers and nutritionists - are knowledgeable in all disciplines and have helped people design healthier diets for horses of all breeds. KAM offers guidance through their website, emails, phone calls and even in person visits if necessary. “Cookies with a Clue” give a fresh and simpler approach to nutrition. Each of the five different types of cookies has its own use. Belly Bites- Give great nutritional support to the gut. They promote healthy digestion and nutrient absorption along with reducing the risk of stomach problems such as ulcers, gas and colic. Booster Bites- Provide a boost of vitamins and minerals in a way that your horse will actually enjoy eating, without the extra unwanted energy.

Chubbies- Offer a safe, delectable tasting way to e n c o u r a g e endocrine balance and healthy insulin production. Since these cookies have no sugars they are ideal for overweight horses that still deserve to be pampered, even those with EMS and IR. Owchees- Present achy horses with an appetizing alternative to nasty-tasting drugs or medicine. They relieve horses of pain or discomfort from inflammation without harmful side effects or stress on the digestive tract. Stress Busters- Grant tranquility to nervous and anxious horses. The special nutrients and homeopathic remedies in these cookies calm the nerves of scared horses and give them a boost of confidence. KAM also provides the “Survivor Kit” which has one of each, so you can be equipped for any situation. “For years now customers have told us about the many challenges they face when feeding supplements. For some it is too complicated and too time consuming. In other cases the horse leaves the supplements behind. Cookies with a Clue are all natural, easy to feed and provide your horse with all the nutrients he needs,” explained Gabriele when questioned about the reason behind the new cookies. “Cookies with a Clue” take the worry out of supplementing your horse. Since they are all natural and do not contain any fillers, additives, chemicals or sugars, no harm can be done. Feed these treats whenever and wherever, either one kind of cookie or a variety. Unlike most equine health products, “Cookies with a Clue” are completely legal in the show ring, making it absolutely acceptable to sneak a quick treat to your partner before the next class. These cookies can only benefit your horse, by making them feel healthier and spoiled at the same time. For more information on these one-of-a-kind cookies and other helpful aids from KAM Animal Services, call 519-463-9640 or go to www.kamanimalservices.com.

Holistic Horse & Rider

Indulge Your Horse to a Healthier Diet

Seasoned Rider

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