2 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE - October 2013
www.horsebackmagazine.com
Horse Sense. One-stop shopping for your
EQUINE INSURANCE SOLUTIONS
For stable coverage that makes sense, pick a winner. PROPERTY COVERAGE • Residences • Barns • Hay & Grain • Farm Machinery • Farm Products & Supplies • Tack LIABILITY COVERAGE • Care, Custody & Control • Riding Instruction • Clinics • Boarding Liability • Shows • Carriage & Buggy Rides • Hay & Sleigh Rides • Umbrella LIFE INSURANCE COVERAGE
To learn more about American National’s Insurance for Equine Operations visit:
anpac.com | keyword: equine
Products and services may not be available in all states and eligibility requirements will apply. Personal and commercial lines insurance is issued by American National Property And Casualty Company (ANPAC®), its subsidiaries or a liates, including American National General Insurance Company, Paci c Property And Casualty Company (California), American National Lloyds Insurance Company (Texas), American National County Mutual Insurance Company (serviced by ANPAC®-Texas), and ANPAC® Louisiana Insurance Company (Louisiana). American National Property And Casualty Company is a subsidiary of American National Insurance Company. Life insurance and annuity products are issued by American National Insurance Company, Galveston, Texas.
www.horsebackmagazine.com
October 2013 - HORSEBACK MAGAZINE
3
AN-49f (0113)
ZIPPY NAME
17
AGE
SENIOR NEEDS
Harley NAME
17
AGE
SENIOR NEEDS
LESS ACTIVE, AND HAS TROUBLE CHEWING HAY.
more active, with good dental health.
Feed your horse’s liFestyle, not its age. Now there’s NutritioN for every stage of seNior.
They may be the same age, but their nutritional needs couldn’t be any more different. After all, walking around the pasture takes a different amount of energy than running around it. That’s why we’ve developed two distinctive senior feeds, based on more than 17 years of Purina senior equine nutrition research: Equine Senior® Active Healthy Edge® for active aging horses with good dental and digestive health, and Equine Senior®— the most vet recommended senior horse feed*— for horses with problems chewing and digesting. To learn more about managing your senior horse’s nutritional needs, visit activestill.com. © 2013 Purina Animal Nutrition LLC. All rights reserved.
4 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE - October 2013
*Recommended by 4 out of 5 veterinarians.
www.horsebackmagazine.com
To find a Purina dealer near you, visit: horse.purinamills.com Steinhauser’s
Alvin
TX
www.steinhausers.com
alvin@steinhausers.com
(281) 388-0388
Angleton Feed & Supply
Angleton
TX
www.damonfarmandranch.com
angletonfeed@sbcglobal.net
(979) 849-6661
Arcola Feed & Hardware
Arcola
TX
www.arcolafeed.com
arcolafdjj@aol.com
(281) 431-1014
The Feed Station
Austin
TX
www.jensfeedstation.com
jen@jensfeedstation.com
(512) 301-7788
Bandera Ranch Store
Bandera
TX
www.theranchstore.com
jerry.sparks@theranchstore.com
(830) 796-3342
Bastrop Feed & Supply
Bastrop
TX
www.bastropfeed.com
clint@bastropfeed.com
(512) 321-3700
Wheeler’s Feed & Outfitters
Boerne
TX
customerservice@wheelersfeed.com
www.wheelersfeed.com
(830) 249-2656
Steinhauser’s
Brookshire
TX
www.steinhausers.com
brookshire@steinhausers.com
(281) 934-2479
AG Mart
Brownwood
TX
www.agmart.com
agmart@nelsonwholesale.com
(325) 643-3636
Lonestar Ranch & Outdoors
Cleburne
TX
www.lonestarranchandoutdoors.com
info@lsroutdoors.com
(817) 645-4325
Clifton Feed
Clifton
TX
www.cliftonfeed.com
cliftonfeed@gmail.com
(254) 675-3416
Conroe Feeders Supply
Conroe
TX
www.feederssupplycompanies.com
bill@conroefeeders.com
(936) 756-5549
J & D Country Store
Conroe
TX
Damon Farm & Ranch
Damon
TX
www.damonfarmandranch.com
timmy@damonfarmandranch.com
(979) 742-3317
Chachere Feed Store
Dayton
TX
www.chacherefeed.com
rob@chacherefeed.com
(936) 258-2670
Stockman Seed Feed and Fertilizer
DeLeon
TX
stockmanseed@gmail.com
(254) 893-5149
Gulf Coast Equine & Pet Center
Friendswood
TX
mark.gcepc@sbcglobal.net
(281) 482-7186
Ranchland Country Store Feed and Fertilizer
Goldthwaite
TX
ranchland@centex.net
(325) 648-2741
Maci Feed & Supply
Hardin
TX
macifeed@imsday.com
(936) 298-9404
Steinhauser’s
Hempstead
TX
www.steinhausers.com
hempstead@steinhausers.com
(979) 826-3273
Cypress Ace Hardware
Houston
TX
www.cypressace.com
susan@cypressace.com
(281) 591-2443
Hieden Feed & Supply
Houston
TX
Sam Houston Feed & Supply Inc.
Houston
TX
shfstx@hotmail.com
(281) 591-2443
Herrmann Feed and Supply
Lampasas
TX
herrmannfeed@gmail.com
(512) 556-5212
Livingston Feed & Farm Supply
Livingston
TX
dcpowelljr@hotmail.com
(936) 327-8853
Spring Creek Feed Center
Magnolia
TX
www.springcreekfeed.net
springcreekfeed@yahoo.com
(281) 252-5400
Steinhauser’s
Magnolia
TX
www.steinhausers.com
magnolia@steinhausers.com
(281) 356-2530
Needville Feed & Supply
Needville
TX
www.needvillefeedandsupply.com
Steinhauser’s
Richmond
TX
www.steinhausers.com
Steinhauser’s - Rosenberg
Rosenberg
TX
Tibaldo’s Feed & Supply
Santa Fe
TX
Steinhauser’s
Sealy
TX
D & D Feed & Supply
Tomball
TX
Haney Feed & Farm Supply
Waller
TX
King Feed & Hardware
Wimberley
TX
www.horsebackmagazine.com
(936) 756-7667
www.gulfcoastequinepet.com
(281) 444-1010
(979) 793-6141 richmond@steinhausers.com
(832) 595-9500 (281) 342-2452
tibaldosfeed@aol.com
(409) 925-2735
sealy@steinhausers.com
(979) 885-2967
ddfeed@att.net
(281) 351-7144
www.haneyfeed.com
haney@haneyfeed.com
(936) 372-3652
www.kingfeedandhardware.com
chris@anvilcom.com
(512) 847-2618
www.steinhausers.com
October 2013 - HORSEBACK MAGAZINE
5
October 2013
FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK The Season Horsemen Live For is Here When you walk out your front door the hint of fall will finally be in the air. High school football is in full swing, the new shows have hit the small screen, and our horses are sporting their fresh and shiny new coats. Life is good. By Steven Long Fall brings with it, if you live in the Horseback Magazine market area at least, a pretty much full eight months of good weather for riding (okay, so the summer is not so great). Moreover, it is the time of horse shows and rodeos. From Washington D.C. to Los Angeles, the arenas are filled with competitors striving to show that their horses are the best of the foal crop of years past. This month sees the prestigious Washington International Horse Show in D.C., and the National Horse Show in Lexington. Others are yet to come such as the famed Pin Oak Charity Horse Show in Houston. Horseback is proud to say that we are a sponsor of all three. But great horse shows aren’t the only thing infecting our world with fun this season. This issue puts a mirthful but chilling perspective on Fall. Longtime readers of Horseback know we love history. We have done stories over the years about everything from the Little Big Horn horse, Comanche (who was the only survivor of Custer’s Last Stand), to Nelson and Blueskin, the horses Washington rode throughout the Revolutionary War. In this issue, we take a departure, writing about the ghosts of the famed Fort Worth Stockyards. It’s truly a spooky place where things go bump in the night, and sometimes even in the day, on a fairly regular basis. Today, the Fort Worth Stockyards is a fine tourist attraction for Cowtown. The refreshing thing is that, for the most part, proprietors are happy to talk about their ghosts and we are happy to repeat those stories here. So the next time you scoot a boot at Billy Bob’s, the next time you watch a rodeo at the venerable Cowtown Coliseum, or the next time you spend the night at Miss Molly’s bed and breakfast, remember one thing. You might think twice about who is next to you.
On the Cover:
Spooks abound in Cowtown!
6 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE - October 2013
Cover Story:
16 Things That Go Bump - Steven Long
Features:
10 Horses of the Iberian Peninsula - Kelsey Hellmann 28 And, The Winners Are - Margaret Pirtle 40 Wild Hearts - Margaret Pirtle
Lifestyle: 14 20 34 36
The Trading Post Barn & Garden Real Estate Roundup Replace Those Dead Trees - Steven Long
Columns: 8 22 24 26 30 32 44 50
Horse Bites To Cross a Bridge - Pat Parelli with Steven Long The Cowboy Way - Corey Johnson On the English Front - Cathy Strobel Whole Horsemanship - Dianne Lindig Tack Talk - Lew Pewterbaugh Foot Form Function - Pete Ramey Cowboy Corner - Jim Hubbard
ADVERTISING OFFICES
• CORPORATE OFFICE (281) 447-0772 Phone & (281) 893-1029 Fax Advertising@horsebackmagazine.com • BRAZOS VALUE BUREAU Diane Holt (936) 878-2678 Ranch & (713) 408-8114 Cell Dianeh@horsebackmagazine.com • GULF COAST BUREAU Carol Holloway - (832) 607-8264 Cell Carol@horsebackmagazine.com • NORTH TEXAS Mari Crabtree - (216) 702-4520 Mari@horsebackmagazine.com • NEW MEXICO BUREAU Laurie Hammer - (505)315-7842
Staff PUBLISHER Vicki Long
EDITOR Steven Long
NATIONAL NEWS EDITOR Carrie Gobernatz LIFESTYLE EDITOR Margaret Pirtle 832-349-1427 Horsebackmag@gmail.com EVENTS EDITOR Leslie Greco
Goldenhorses7@hotmail.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Jim Hubbard, Steven Long, Vicki Long, Dianne Lindig, Roni Norquist, Pat Parelli, Pete Ramey, Lew Pewterbaugh, Cathy Strobel, Dr. Jessica Jahiel, Cory Johnson, Margaret Pirtle Volume 20, No. 9 Horseback Magazine, P.O. Box 681397, Houston, TX 77268-1397, (281) 447-0772. The entire contents of the magazine are copyrighted September 2013 by Horseback Magazine. All rights reserved. Material in this publication may not be reproduced in any form without the expressed written consent of the publisher. Horseback Magazine assumes no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, photographs and other material unless accompanied by a stamped, self addressed envelope. Horseback Magazine is not responsible for any claims made by advertisers. The views and opinions expressed herein do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher or management. Subscription rate is $25.00 for one year. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Horseback Magazine, P.O. Box 681397, Houston, TX 77268-1397. Fax: (281) 893-1029
Email: news@horsebackmagazine.com
Phone: (281)
447-0772
www.horsebackmagazine.com
www.horsebackmagazine.com
October 2013 - HORSEBACK MAGAZINE
7
Horse Bites - Con’t. on pg. 49
Galveston Island State Park to Allow Horses on beach November – February With More Goodies to Come GALVESTON, (Horseback) – Equestrians will be able to bring their horses for a rare ride on the beach this winter. After Galveston Island State Park was completely destroyed by hurricane Ike the design of the new facility began almost at once. The Texas State Horse Council (then the Greater Houston Horse Council) immediately began meeting with Texas Parks and Wildlife officials beginning with former parks director Walt Dabney to allow privately owned horses at the West Beach facility for the first time. The meetings have continued to the present. For decades, the only horses allowed on Galveston’s beaches were provided by a vendor hired by the city’s park board. All that has changed and the state park is now throwing its gates open to riders who may now take their own animals for a romantic seaside ride on famed East Beach. Horseback has learned from Park Superintendent Trey Goodman that the design has progressed to the point that construction will begin in 2014 on four equestrian overnight campsites with hookups for water electricity, beach access for the horses, and corrals on each side of the park. For the upcoming season equestrians can access the beach via public roads on the east and west sides of the park and then ride into the park from there. Park hours are from 7 a.m. until 10 p.m. daily. Riders coming into the park will not have to pay an entrance fee if they are not using park facilities such as restrooms, parking lots or campsites. Riders are cautioned that access via these roads is sometimes difficult because of dry, loose, sand. FEI Bureau allocates 2015 FEI World Cup Finals to Las Vegas LAUSANNE, (FEI) - Las Vegas has been officially confirmed as the host city for the Longines FEI World Cup Jumping and Reem Acra FEI World Cup Dressage Finals in 2015. Las Vegas has already hosted the FEI World Cup Finals five times – in 2000 and 2003 when it staged the Jumping Finals, and in 2005, 2007 and 2009, when the Jumping and Dressage Finals were combined.
8 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE - October 2013
tional program was attended by close to 50 police officers from Eagle Pass and four additional “Horse Bites is compiled from Sheriff ’s Departments traveling from as far away Press Releases sent to Horseback as San Antonio. Magazine. Original reporting is Representatives from the Commercial done as circumstances warrant. Vehicle Enforcement Division of The DepartContent is edited for length & style.” ment of Public Safety were also present. This propriety training model focused on horse welfare and law enforcement’s responsibilities regarding TX humane laws, the Commercial “We are delighted that the FEI World Cup Fi- Transport of Equines for Slaughter Regulations, nals in both Jumping and Dressage will be re- DOT rules and regulations, and emergency euthaturning to Las Vegas in 2015, giving our sport nasia. In addition, Animals’ Angels supplied a list and our title sponsors Longines and Reem Acra of horse slaughter trucking companies known to further global exposure on this fabulous Amer- frequent the Eagle Pass export pens to law enforceican stage”, said FEI Secretary General Ingmar ment. De Vos. “It will be good to be back in Las Vegas Sonja Meadows, Founder & President after a six-year gap and we are looking forward of Animals’ Angels Inc., described the training as to really top class sport in this fabulous venue.” a resounding success. Most admitted that they had Pat Christenson, President of Las Vegas not been aware of the USDA Commercial TransEvents, expressed his delight at the FEI Bureau port of Equines to Slaughter Regulations, let alone decision to allocate the 2015 Finals to Las Vegas. the persons in charge to contact. Animals’ Angels “We are honoured to be the host of the 2015 FEI was elated to make that connection for them, while World Cup Finals,” he said. “Las Vegas last hosted explaining the USDA slaughter program. the show jumping and dressage Finals in 2009, so A representative from the Department we are extremely excited to once again showcase of Public Safety mentioned that he sees dead horses our destination to equestrian fans from the U.S. on trailers regularly, but didn’t know who to conand around the world. We look forward to work- tact prior to the training. He also stated that he ing with the FEI to create a memorable event and knew the trucking companies ran with fraudulent a venue for the top riders in the world.” logs, and would be initiating compliance reviews. The FEI World Cup Jumping Finals were first held in Gothenburg (SWE) in 1979. Seven years later, the first FEI World Cup DresPress Organizations Join Wild Horse sage Finals were held in ‘s-Hertogenbosch (NED) Journalist Against BLM in 1986. Las Vegas was the first venue to host SAN FRANCISCO, (Wild Horse Education) combined FEI World Cup Finals when Jumping - An ongoing battle in US Federal Court to and Dressage were staged together at the Thomas have meaningful access to document wild hors& Mack Arena University of Nevada, Las Vegas in es removed from public land has been joined 2005. by The Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press, the National Press Photographers Texas Law Enforcement in Unprecedented Border Killer Association and thirteen other news media orBuyer Training – More Agencies Expected to Follow Suit ganizations. Laura Leigh, journalist for Horseback Magazine and founder of Wild Horse EAGLE PASS, TEXAS (Animals Angels) – Flash- Education, began the legal action almost four back to September 21, 2012. It’s 92 degrees on years ago when her access to document the Bua Friday afternoon, and four slaughter transport reau of Land Management (BLM) wild horse trucks are packed full waiting to cross the border and burro program became unreasonably reinto Mexico. Two horses go down inside one of the strictive following her publication of material trailers. One recovers its footing, while the other unfavorable to government actions. “I have spent the last four years trying gets trampled by the horses around it. Animals’ An- gels investigators attempt to communicate with the to tell the story of the wild horse on the range, during capture and in holding,” stated Leigh “I driver, but he doesn’t speak English. Investigators call the Eagle Pass Police have been met with restrictions at every turn, Department, which leads to a brief conversation even as the BLM touts its program as ‘transin Spanish between the driver and an officer. After parent.’ This struggle to document wild horses the call, investigators expect the driver to unload has taken years and hundreds of thousands of the horse back at the export pens, but they realize miles; real transparency is long overdue.” From the onset of this case that has shortly thereafter that the driver is fleeing to the Mexican border. Without help from local law en- gone up and down the court system and now forcement, investigators couldn’t prevent the trailer heads back to the Ninth Circuit Court of Apfrom passing into Mexican territory. The injuries peals, Leigh has been represented by attorney sustained by this horse could have only one result Gordon Cowan of Reno. “Without the First Amendment in that trailer on its long journey to the slaughter- democracy fails,” stated Cowan “It is truly an house… death. This incident prompted Animals’ Angels honor to have so many outstanding members to develop a groundbreaking training program de- of the US press stand with us to defend this essigned specifically for members of law enforcement. sential American principal.” Working in concert with Lt. Alejandro Guedea of The case is now awaiting assignment of a trial the Eagle Pass Police Department, the training was date. conducted on August 23rd. This multi-jurisdic- Excerpt of Amici Curiae brief: “The public has a right to see what happens www.horsebackmagazine.com
HorseBack 0513_7.625x4.8125 5/16/13 12:27 PM Page 1
ChoiCe Barns offers you... • Fire-resistant, low maintenance barns & buildings
866-994-BARN www.choicebarns.com
•
Lifetime kick-through warranty
•
Safe, Reliable, Versatile & Affordable
•
Exceptional customer service
•
A variety of styles and options to fit your needs
Manufactured in Midland, Texas
Visit us on our website www.choicebarns.com
Your Local Dealers
• austin, dallas & san antonio, texas • oklahoma & new mexico
SWEETWATER BARN CO.
(800) 678-2556 www.sweetwaterbarns.com
houston, south and east texas
TEXAS CLASSIC BARN CO.
(877) 877-535-9260 www.texasclassicbarns.com
www.horsebackmagazine.com
October 2013 - HORSEBACK MAGAZINE
9
Breed Spotlight...
Horses of the
Iberian Peninsula ROYALTY, CONQUERORS & A RICH HISTORY
M
any breeds have great histories but very few have contributed to the creation of the modern steed like the Iberian Horse. The Iberian horse actually refers to a group of breeds that originated in southwestern Europe. But these Spanish horses started off as just a herd of very fine stock that everyone wanted. This fascinating equine came from the Iberian Peninsula, what is current day Spain and Portugal. This horse was sought after because it was a premier riding horse and was also a great war horse. The animal was short in body with wide powerful loins and well flexed knees and hocks, which allowed for a horse that rounded n a t u r a l l y. Lazaro MHF, Andalusian/P.R.E. (Puro Raza EsThis horse paniola) Stallion competes at Dressage and is was ath- currently training at the Prix St. Georges Level. letic and Many Iberian Horses, like Lazaro, have an inherent s t r o n g , athletic ability making them particularly suited with a for Dressage. Photo courtesy Karin Glynn Dressage www.topandalusianstallion.com, Kansas. regal carPhotographer: M.A. Donaldson riage and high step. Combining those features with a high head carriage, it became ideal for cavalries, kings, parades and general farm work making this the true working horse of its time. True Iberian horses were prized and the envy of all royal courts from the time of the Romans until the eighteenth century. The famous Legions of Rome and the Greek armies used Iberian stallions as their mounts. When the Greeks arrived on the peninsula around 1,000 B.C., the Iberian cavalry was without equal because their horses were great chargers in battle. Soon after the Romans and the Carthaginians hB became huge im-
10 10 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE - October 2013 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE - October 2013
www.horsebackmagazine.com www.horsebackmagazine.com
by Kelsey Hellmann select photo’s by Mary Donaldson
“Bred for the agility and collection required for handto-hand combat they were the original Dressage horse. When the ancestors of today’s warmbloods were still pulling wagons, coaches, and the army’s artillery, the Andalusian and Lusitano was the Haute Ecole Dressage horse in Europe.” -Courtesy IALHA
porters of Iberian horses. When times changed from war to entertainment the Iberian use was focused on an event called corrida, or mounted bullfight. This required a courageous and extremely athletic animal, thus keeping the Iberian’s traits in demand throughout bullfight crazy Spain. It was the Andalusian pairs performing in the classical bullfighters, the va- This Perlino colored Lusitano Stallion exhibits the classic Iberian profile. Stock Photo Iberian style. Stock Photo queros, which built the Iberian’s reputation for being one of the greatest stock workings hors- Andalus, thus creating the name Anes. It is here that the horses dalusian for their horses. The horse started to be called Spanish was then selectively bred to create horses, because of the influ- a well-collected equine for royal ence of Spain. It is common- courts, parades and a horsemanship ly believed the American like event called manège. The AnQuarter Horse’s ‘cow sense’ dalusian has been recognized as its is an inherited trait that own breed since the 15th century. came from these cattle work- Its ancestors were the original Ibeing Iberians. rian horses from before the Moors The Iberian horse invasion. was likely one of the first There are seventeen horse to be domesticated around breeds that contain Iberian traces, 25,000 B.C. Cave paintings the most popular being Andalusion, have been found in Spain Lusitano, Garrano, and Hispanoshowing horses, and, people Breton. These breeds range in size interacting with them. This from ponies to larger horses. Since holding true, the Iberian be- the Iberian was largely exported to came a foundation for many other countries and cross-bred with the stock, many of the European Valerian, an Andalusian/P.R.E. Gelding available breeds of horse seen today. from Karin Glynn Dressage, is another athletic In 711 A.D. when the Moors light breeds can also contribute their Iberian specimen. Photo courtesy Karin Glynn invaded almost all of the Ibe- foundation back to the Iberian. Dressage www.topandalusianstallion.com, Kansas. rian Peninsula from Northern Photographer: M.A. Donaldson Africa, they called the land Al (cont. on page 12) www.horsebackmagazine.com www.horsebackmagazine.com
October 2013 2013 -- H HORSEBACK ORSEBACK M MAGAZINE AGAZINE
11 11
Breed Spotlight... By the 1500’s Iberian horses were on voyages to the New World. These horses had a large part in helping in the conquest of Native American civilizations. In the 1600’s Andalusians were brought to the New World and breeding farms were established. These farms bred with the Iberian stock that was already there thus drawing the Andalusian bloodlines tighter with the Iberian horse. When the conquistadors traveled the New World, the horse was introduced to the native people. The horse became a trading tool with the native people as well as giving the conquistadors an advantage in conquering the land. Although only the seventeen breeds can firmly trace lineage back to the Iberian horse, the animal was sent all over the world to better cavalries, conquer new lands and provide better breeding stock. This made the Iberian the horse with the largest impact on equine history.
WHERE’S THE IBERIAN PENINSULA?
T
he Iberian Peninsula, commonly called Iberia, is a peninsula located in the extreme south-west of Europe and includes the modern-day sovereign states of Spain, Portugal, Andorra, and part of France, as well as the British Overseas Territory of Gibraltar. It is the westernmost of the three major southern European peninsulas—the Iberian, Italian, and Balkan peninsulas. It is bordered on the south-east and east by the Mediterranean Sea, and on the north, west, and south-west by the Atlantic Ocean. The Pyrenees form the north-east edge of the peninsula, separating it from the rest of Europe. In the south, it approaches the northern coast of Africa. It is the second-largest peninsula in Europe, with an area of approximately 582,000 km2 (225,000 sq mi).
M.A. Donaldson Photo
Andalusian, Lusitano, PRE, PSL...
SO, WHAT IS IT???!
T
Courtesy IALHA he modern descendants of the Andalusian and Lusitano are known in Spain officially as Pura Raza Espanola (P.R.E., Pure Spanish Horses) and the Portuguese lines are called Puro Sangue Lusitano (P.S.L.). In North America, P.R.E.s and Lusitanos are registered jointly by the International Andalusian & Lusitano Horse Association (IALHA). Out of respect for the common historical and genetic origin of all Iberian horses, the American registry, IALHA, allows them to inter-breed, as it was traditionally practiced on the Iberian Peninsula. - See more at: http://www.ialha.org or visit the IALHA National Championships in Fort Worth, October 15-20 at the Will Rogers Coliseum.
12 2013 12 HHORSEBACK ORSEBACKM MAGAZINE AGAZINE--October September 2013
www.horsebackmagazine.com www.horsebackmagazine.com
WORK. PLAY. MOW. Fall Financing Makes It Happen.
1023E Tractor Package
Gator™ XUV S4 & RSX Models
• 1023E, 22.4 hp^, 4WD, SubCompact Utility Tractor • John Deere D120 Front Loader • Frontier 4-foot Rotary Cutter
2.9% for 60 months†† plus $500 off*
CONVENIENCE: EXPERIENCE: EXPERTISE: SERVICE: STRONG:
7 locations 39 years in business Gold Star Certified Dealer On Site Field Service More than 100 employees supporting your equipment
17000 Hwy 288B (979) 849-2325 2 miles south of CR220
28715 Hwy 90 (281) 391-2165 Hwy 90, Exit I-10 at Pedersen Rd.
9125 I-45 Gulf Frwy (713) 943-7100 College / Airport Exit
19003 I-45 North Frwy (281) 353-0204 Cypresswood Exit
11700 S. Sam Houston Pkwy W. (713) 541-3535 Near SW Frwy (Hwy 59)
13250 West Rd. (713) 466-7456 Hwy 290 @ West Rd.
12,999
$
*
or
169/MONTH
$
*
2135 Gulf Frwy South (281) 338-1300 League City Pkwy Exit
WE DELIVER EVERYWHERE www.BrooksideUSA.com
BES7X41001HBM-4C Offer ends 10/25/2013. Subject to approved credit on Revolving plan, a service of John Deere Financial, f.s.b. Some restrictions apply; other special rates and terms may be available, so see your dealer for details and some other financing options. Available at participating dealers. Prices and models may vary by dealer. 2.9% APR for 60 months only. †Offer ends 10/25/2013. Subject to approved credit on Revolving plan, a service of John Deere Financial, f.s.b. Some restrictions apply; other special rates and terms may be available, so see your dealer for details and other financing options. For • consumer use only. Interest will be charged to your account from the purchase date at 17.9% APR if the purchase balance is not paid in full within 12 months or if your account is otherwise in default. Offer ends 10/25/2013. Prices and model availability may vary by dealer. Available at participating dealers. Subject to approved credit on John Deere Financial Installment Plan. Taxes, freight, set up and delivery charges could increase the price and monthly payment. Price, payment and financing subject to change without notice. Residency restrictions apply. Subject to inventory in stock. Example: based on a purchase of $12,999 with $1,509 down payment, monthly payment of $169 at 1.9% APR for 72 months. ••Example: based on a purchase of $16,999 with $1,428 down payment, monthly payment of $299 at 1.9% APR for 72 months. ^Manufacturer’s estimate of power (ISO) per 97/68/EC. ††
Spring Creek Feed Center More Than Just a Feed Store! PET COSTUME CONTEST & PARTY October 26TH 1-4 PM
(281) 252-5400 www.springcreekfeed.net 26211 FM 2978 Rd. Magnolia, TX 77354 Store Hours: Mon-Sat 8am-7pm • Sun 10am-5pm www.horsebackmagazine.com
Others Availablet! call for lis
CALL FOR PRICES Blue Sky Farm, Peculiar, MO 816. 679.3456 • KarinGlynnDressage.com October 2013 - HORSEBACK MAGAZINE
13
The Trading Post A Marketplace
Micro Rain MR32
J.M. Saddler, Inc jmsaddler.com
800-627-2807
Micro Rain MR25 Call today for more information!
ATS Irrigation, Inc 2509 Hwy 105 East in Brenham, Texas
1-800-656-2197
Visit our website at www.atsirrigation.com
“My horses love Omega Horseshine® and continue to shine on, from the inside out” ~ Linda Parelli
Go to OmegaFields.com or call 920-550-4061 to order or find a dealer near you.
NEW PRODUCT RELEASE OLD MACDONALD’S® MY ACHIN’ LOTION™
J.M. SADDLER, INC. 800-627-2807 www.jmsaddler.com
14 H HORSEBACK ORSEBACK M MAGAZINE AGAZINE -- October September 2013 14 2013
!
Natural Organic Relief! My Achin’ Lotion™ combines 7 herbal essential oils and chili pepper extract to help relieve aging, overworked, stiff, sore muscles and joints throughout your whole body. This natural, non-greasy blend of nourishing ingredients has no artificial fragrance and has been used for generations. www.horsebackmagazine.com www.horsebackmagazine.com
www.horsebackmagazine.com
October 2013 - HORSEBACK MAGAZINE
15
Things That Go Bump in the Stockyards? By Steven Long
T
he Stockyards of Cowtown are filled to the brim daily by steak loving cowboys (and cosmic cowboys and cowgirls) who want a glimpse of what it was like at trails end. There, the kill chutes of the Fort Worth meat packing center spelled the end to cattle whose flesh was destined for the nation’s tables for generations beginning in 1866. By 1890, the facility was dotted with packing plants and auctions. Seven years later packers were processing a million cattle a year. At the end of Exchange Avenue stood the imposing plants belonging to meat giants, Swift and Armor. It was what gave Fort Worth its much loved nickname. While the heyday of The Stockyards ended in the 1950’s and the facilities were left to bake in the relentless Texas sun, some residents stayed on. Today, the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District may well be the most haunted urban blocks in the United States.
By
informal count, Horseback Magazine has calculated there are at least 10 identifiable ghosts haunting the Fort Worth Stockyards with a host of lesser spirits hanging out there as well. Ghost hunters and paranormal investigators frequently come to the old buildings along Exchange Avenue near its intersection with Main Street to probe the strange activities that go on in the district day and night. It’s no wonder considering the entire purpose of the place was killing, albeit save for a few murders the only things killed were the animals that were slaughtered. But cattle aren’t haunting the place. The “undead” are cowboys and the painted ladies who served them.
16 16 HHORSEBACK ORSEBACKM MAGAZINE AGAZINE--October October2013 2013
While the spirits of long ago cows don’t roam the red brick streets and alleyways of the Stockyards, cowpokes still hang around long after they took off their pointed boots for the last time. There’s Old Jake who haunts Miss Molly’s bed and breakfast. He allegedly was a former resident of the onetime boarding house. There are the patrons of the working girls who made its rooms their place of business when it was a bawdy
house called “The Oasis.” Not too far away a girl named Peggy haunts the world famous honky tonk, Billy Bob’s. She is joined in eternal boot scoottin’ to the Cotton Eyed Joe by the ghost of a bull rider named Onion. Bets on whether he makes his presence known by his strong breath are mixed. Not all Stockyards business people welcome tales of ghosts in the district. Paul Gallager, manager of the famed Stockyards Hotel, stoutly denies his hostelry is haunted. “People write about and say stuff about us all the time, but we’re not haunted,” he told Horseback. “They don’t like to be labeled like that,” said a Paula Gowins who www.horsebackmagazine.com www.horsebackmagazine.com
managed Miss Molly’s for six years and now runs it and two other historic bed and breakfast properties in the district. Needless to say, despite Gallager’s aversion to the hotel being labeled as haunted, persistent reports appear claiming outlaws Bonnie and Clyde sometimes share room 305, and room 218 is said to be haunted as well. In fairness, the Stockyards Hotel has been a favorite resting place for the night for Horseback’s owners who have slept soundly with nary a stir save an occasional snore. Yet the old hotel pales in comparison to two buildings that can be classified by even the most dubious skeptic as being extremely busy with paranormal activity – Miss Molly’s and the famed Cowtown Coliseum, original home of the legendary Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo. Gowins has seen a steady stream of paranormal investigators pass through the portals of the old boarding house in her years working there. She has also seen more than her share of its spiritual residents, she says. “It is haunted, and it is very active,” Gowins told Horseback Magazine. The haunts are so busy that as many as eight television crews have come to Miss Molly’s in hopes of catching a ghost in the act of haunting. www.horsebackmagazine.com www.horsebackmagazine.com
This used to be an old bordello. Miss Molly’s was built above a café in 1910 at the beginning of the jazz age when ragtime was at its height and before western style music became classified as country. The Fort Worth Stockyards were a busy place back then and it is only natural that some of its residents and visitors have lingered. Gowins says some of them are downright frightening. “I’ve had a few terrifying encounters,” she says. “I moved up the ladder in management of three hotels. We have a new innkeeper at Miss Molly’s now and she’s experiencing the same things.” Seeing a full bodied ghost didn’t happen i m m e d i a t e l y, Gowins relates. “The first six months I was there I was hearing things moved around, noises, voices, and stuff. Nobody had told me it was haunted. After six months of stuff happening I was thinking there’s something wrong with me. And then one day I was
walking from the back towards the front. Toward the parlor area there was a man dressed in 1800’s type clothing with a tie and the long duster coat, spurs, boots and hat, long hair – and he was walking away from me toward one of the rooms. I was there by myself and had the doors locked. How did this guy get in here? He walked into a room, the door shut, and it locked behind him. I knocked on the door calling, ‘Hello’ and there was no answer. I opened the door and there was nobody in there. It was very unnerving,” she said laughing. Paula was overcome with anger that the cowboy had ignored her. After finding the empty room, fear replaced the anger. She had encountered Jake for the first time. A year later, the same cowboy returned. Gowins saw the apparition, stomped her foot and yelled at the man who again went into the room and locked the door behind him. The ghost ignored her. Again, he wasn’t there when she opened the door. “That was it,” Paula remembers. She immediately began calling paranormal investigators to tell them what she had encountered. “I called psychics, preachers, anybody that would listen. Long story short, I found out his name is Jake and he had lived there when it was a boarding house. He October 2013 2013--H HORSEBACK ORSEBACKM MAGAZINE AGAZINE
17 17
“She stands at the foot of the bed and watches people sleeping, She’s wearing a Victorian dress. I’ve had a few people leave in the middle of the night when they saw things like that...”
died there of natural causes. He still comes and goes.” As years have passed, Gowins has developed a sort of rapport with the ghost. While you couldn’t exactly call them friends, he does occasionally respond to her now. “Sometimes I can tell him to stop and he will stop doing something,” she says. “Jake also has the stubborn habit of holding the door closed when she tries to enter the room after him seemingly wanting to maintain privacy from the pesky innkeeper, even in the afterlife. An A&E film crew even captured video of the struggle with the door to Room 7 where Jake had lived and died. “Room 7 is just one of many, “ Gowins says. “There are children, and there are a lot of female apparitions you see, especially in Miss Josey’s room.” Miss Josey was the Madame of the place when its eight rooms were used as a whorehouse. “She stands at the foot of the bed and watches people sleeping,” Paula says. “She’s wearing a Victorian dress. I’ve had a few people leave in the middle of the night when they saw things like that. Others come looking for it and they enjoy it. Nothing is too terribly evil. We have lots of guest books that people have signed and written what happened to them. There are so many of them you almost have to be dead, no pun intended, not to encounter a note like that.” Gowins says that even the B&B’s maintenance man has experienced ghosts at the hotel and other properties.
18 18 HHORSEBACK ORSEBACKM MAGAZINE AGAZINE- -October October2013 2013
But Miss Molly’s isn’t the only business in The Stockyards that can be called a hotbed of haunts. The 3,418 seat Cowtown Coliseum was home to one of America’s premier rodeos until the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo moved to the Will Rogers Coliseum across town decades ago. But despite being abandoned by the event that built it, the sport of rodeo continues at the Cowtown arena each weekend to the present day. And while the big rodeo moved across the Trinity River to the other side of town, it left its ghosts behind, according to Nate Krieger, marketing director for the venerable building that opened its doors in 1908. He says at least five employees have had close encounters with the structure’s ghosts that include Quanah Parker, last war Chief of the Comanche Nation, who rode there as a star attraction more than a century ago in the rodeo. Kreiger handles marketing director chores at the venue. He says ghosts there don’t discriminate. They frighten employees from the folks who clean up the grandstands, to the very top executives such as himself. “Our director of operations had her hair pulled a couple of times,” he told Horseback. “I’ve had stuff thrown off the credenza behind my desk when I’m just sitting there. Things
like that happen regularly. “ Kreiger’s six-year-old son told his father one day that he had seen a man with half a body up in the stands. “He has nothing to gain from saying that,” he said. “It’s a 105 year old building that has continuously been used for what it was built for. It was the first indoor rodeo in 1918.” “There’s stuff that happens where people get cold chills,” he said. “The lady that locks up our building everyday hears boots scooting on concrete, or people jumping around in the electrical area and there is never anybody there. Another haunted space in the coliseum is the bullfighter (rodeo clown) locker room. Kreiger is a walking encyclopedia of the Stockyard’s ghosts. “The Cattlemen’s Steakhouse has pictures of them on the wall in the back room,” he says. “An employee saw a child in the executive offices, spoke to the little girl, and then she was gone. Weird stuff like that happens all the time. We hear people walking upstairs www.horsebackmagazine.com www.horsebackmagazine.com
when we are downstairs working and we know there is nobody upstairs. There is a lot of walking around in the conference room directly above the offices. You can go upstairs and walk and it sounds the same way. It’s the exact same sound.” Another building in the district Kreiger says is haunted is the Stockyards Exchange Building. Cowtown Coliseum has hosted paranormal investigators and reality television shows including crews from The Travel Channel and The Biography Channel. “We’ve had local and regional teams as well as state paranormal groups come in,” he continued. “I spent the night with the last group that came in.” A stroll down Exchange finds there are reports of spectral happenings on almost every corner. A ghostly cowboy is sometimes seen on the front steps of the Front Porch Store. A poltergeist allegedly slams doors and throws cups off the shelves of the Neon Moon Saloon and a long dead spirit suffers from unrequited love and allegedly leaves roses upstairs in a room above the Maverick Western Store. Life and death went on in the stockyards from the arrival of the first cattle drives to cross the Trinity in 1866 until the packing houses decline in the 1950s. At its height though, the Fort Worth Stockyards was a hubbub of activity with 37 saloons, 17 blacksmith shops, 24 wagon yards, six hide dealers and even seven barbers. Today, it’s a hubbub of activity for tourists – and ghosts. www.horsebackmagazine.com www.horsebackmagazine.com
October October 2013 2013- -H HORSEBACK ORSEBACKM MAGAZINE AGAZINE
19 19
By: Margaret Pirtle, Lifestyle Editor
Barn &
Microwave Pecan Brittle
The Fall Porch! You know autumn decorating is just around the corner when the summer sun starts setting earlier in the evening and the first cool breezes knock down the summer heat. It’s that time of the year that we immediately envision plump pumpkins, brightly colored leaves, scarecrows and cornstalks. Make your front porch radiate an inviting and cozy feeling that says “Come on in.” Steal some ideas from our front porch pictures and have fun some decorating your own.
20 20 H HORSEBACK ORSEBACK M MAGAZINE AGAZINE -- October October 2013 2013
Ingredients: • 1 cup sugar • 1/2 cup light corn syrup • 1 cup pecan or nut pieces • 1 teaspoon butter • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract • 1 teaspoon baking soda Directions: 1. Combine sugar and corn syrup in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring well. 2. Cover with heavy-duty plastic wrap, and microwave at HIGH setting for 4 minutes. 3. Add pecans, stirring well. Microwave at HIGH setting for 4 minutes or until lightly browned. 4. Stir in butter and vanilla; microwave at HIGH setting for 1 minute. 5. Stir in baking soda until foamy. 6. Immediately pour mixture onto a lightly greased baking sheet; let cool on baking sheet on a wire rack. 7. Break into pieces; store in an airtight container.
www.horsebackmagazine.com www.horsebackmagazine.com
Garden Apple Jack Time!
T
his stout liquor made from apple cider isn’t the main stay in American drinks that it was in the colonial time, but that doesn’t mean that it isn’t still around and enjoyed. Small breweries dotted around the northeast, still bring this once popular golden drink to the general public. Tom Foolery, in Chagrin Falls, Ohio is a family owned distillery which is still using the traditional methods to craft this serious spirit - no foolin’. Apple Jack by Tom Foolery is made from fermenting fresh pressed cider which is then distilled in copper pots to 90 proof. Aged for two years, the final product is a brandy that is perfect for cold Fall evenings. While Ohio doesn’t permit the local liquor to be shipped out of state, if you are up that way, taking a look at the beautiful fall foliage this year, make sure and drop by for a old colonial drink that takes the chill off any cold winter day. www.horsebackmagazine.com www.horsebackmagazine.com
Cracking the Organic Code! Wonder if the produce in the store that you are about to buy is really organic? Here is a quick and simple way to know for sure. Take a good look at the little sticker on the produce itself, not the bar code. A four-digit number means the produce has been conventionally grown, with pesticides and fertilizers. A five-digit code beginning with the number 8, means the produce is genetically modified. The five-digit code beginning with the number 9 means you have found the organic product.
Cat Scat Mat! Keep kittens from using your garden or container plants as their private litter box. Cat Scat Mats are the perfect nontoxic way to say “No Trespassing. Simply place the mats in the area where you want to discourage kitty’s paws. The flexible plastic spikes are harmless, but are an effective deterrent.
Cheap, fun uses for Coffee Filters! Clean Windows, mirrors and chrome for lint free sparkle.... Cover bowls or dishes when cooking in the microwave.... If you break the cork when opening a wine bottle, filter the wine through a coffee filter....Place a coffee filter in a cast iron skillet to absorb moisture and prevent rust.... Hold tacos. Coffee filters make convenient wrappers for messy foods.... Line a plant pot with a coffee filter to prevent the soil from going through the drainage holes...Oh and I have been told that they work well in Coffee Pots too. October 2013 2013 -- H HORSEBACK ORSEBACK M MAGAZINE AGAZINE
21 21
Western... To Cross a Bridge
By Pat Parelli with Steven Long
HORSEBACK MAGAZINE: I was out riding recently on a green broke horse. It was his first wilderness ride with spooky things all around for a horse that had never been out the familiar and safe confines of a pasture. Our group came up to a small bridge crossing a creek. I happened to be the first to approach the bridge which was around a blind corner. When we approached it, the horse balked drawing up in fear of this unknown obstacle. What is the best thing to do in this situation? PAT PARELLI: One thing about having a nice trailride out in the country is that it is going great for awhile and then nature decides to put a creek or a river in front of you and a man decides to build a bridge across it. Now, just remember one thing before I start my story. Proper preparation means the more you force a horse to do the things he’s afraid of, the less he will trust you. Therefore, the trust-based relationship must be developed before you ask him to do scary things. It’s all about preparation, simulation, approach and retreat – and it works wonders with horses crossing water and any other horse problem you’re looking to solve. HORSEBACK: So where do you start this preparation? PARELLI: There are exercises in an arena that we can do that can help prepare our horses for
22 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE - October 2013
out on the trail. Before you go out there, I want you to think about what you can do at home. This isn’t the first time I’ve been asked the bridge question. Many people have asked “what should I do when my horse crosses a river or a bridge.” Ask yourself this question. What can I do to prepare my horse so that he never balks. HORSEBACK: If I was a betting man, which I am, my money would be put on a tarp laying on the turf in an arena or round corral. PA R E L L I : There are many things we can do at home, first on the ground, and while riding. A big flat tarp is a great preparation. HORSEBACK: Knew it! PARELLI: Not that it takes the place of water, but there are many things you can do to get a horse to be confident- confident in his environment, confident in his rider – that’s what we need to have, confidence. We can build little bridges, a teeter totter, to prepare for what we are going to do out in the country. So think what would you do at home before you get out there.
One of those things is loading him in the trailer. The horse has to go onto the floor, between the walls, and under the air, or roof. It can build confidence in the horse if you go about it as a learning situation for the horse and not just trans-
portation. That said, when we are out on the trail, and you haven’t prepared and the horse balks you’re going to have to have some confidence. Remember, riding is nothing more than not falling off, guiding is the next level, and negotiating with the horse is the third level. A lot of people get in trouble when they think they are good riders because they don’t fall off very often. But they oftentimes give the horse conflicting signals, and oftentimes they will have no negotiating skills with horses. Finally, you want to approach, give him relaxation, and then retreat. In other words you want to approach and retreat from the bridge, and you want him better relaxed and make sure he is confident. Sometimes having the other horses go first, have the horses that are very confident go back and forth a couple of times so the horse can feel like he can follow the herd. Remember, keep it natural. parellinaturalhorsetraining.com www.horsebackmagazine.com
BUILDING CONFIDENCE WITH YOUR HORSE!
Experience The Difference!
• Parelli Full Service Boarding Facility • Climate Controlled Tack Room • Clean & Spacious Stalls • Owner & Manager Live on Premises • Two Round Pens • Indoor & Outdoor Arenas • Daily Turn Out • Fly Predator Program • Equine Nutrition • Private & Group Riding Lessons • Parelli Play Days
Join
e Fun! Lei Clay 832-630-3969
w w w. h u n t i n g t onstables.com
lei@huntingtonstables.com /sign up for our event mailing list
WWW.TACKXAS.COM 8889075432
ENGLISH & WESTERN SADDLES, TACK & MORE! TRADITIONAL, FLEX TREE & TREELESS OPTIONS!
www.horsebackmagazine.com
October 2013 - HORSEBACK MAGAZINE
23
Western...
Pride Goes Before Getting Pitched in the Dirt
I
have always had buddies that were involved in rodeo and for a while I was too. There are always stories about rodeo and probably anybody that has participated in it has several, some they can share, some they’d better not! Several years ago, about 25, to be exact, I got the chance to ride a bareback horse. I thought this would be fairly easy, after all, I was a pretty fair hand at colt startin’. I always liked ‘em best, back then, if those colts would buck a lot. So
comfort
ease
I thought ridin’ a bareback bronc couldn’t be a whole lot different. I mean, after all, it’s just a buckin’ horse and instead of a saddle, you got that little suitcase handle to hold onto. How hard could it be? Heck, I was ridin’ a bull or two back then too, Surely they were a whole lot harder to ride than a bareback horse. I felt confident and almost over qualified to ride a bareback horse, so I thought I would give it a whirl! I arrived behind the chute with thoughts of how easy this was going to be. I would just show all the rest of these boys how a real hand operates. Of course, I had to borrow a riggin, no big deal. I didn’t do this professionally, or even “amaturely,” so obviously I didn’t own one! I had a bareback ridin’ buddy help me strap it down, I think even he was impressed with what was about to happen. He grinned and giggled the whole time, so I just knew he couldn’t wait for me to get out there and show the rest of those fellers how a he-wolf got it done!
I wasn’t totally clueless about how it was supposed to look, and I said to myself, “Self, all you have to do is just control your butt and legs. Run those spurs into his shoulders and drag ‘em, all the while just sittin’ there in the middle as pretty as you please.” Once we had the riggin’ strapped on, my buddy asked me if I wanted to wear his chaps. I, of course, was above that. I did not need his squirrely lookin’ red and white chaps, so I told him that they wouldn’t be required. He grinned at me and said, “If you’re ready, crawl on his back.” So I hopped down in the chute and that horse was just standin’ there with his head kinda’ hanging. He was a sorrel, a little skinny, and short. Surely they have givin’ me a dink, this poor excuse for a horse cannot, and probably will, not buck hard at all. I looked at all of my buddies standin’ around, laughin and grinin’. My first thought was “they think they are playin’ me for a fool! I show them, I will drag all the hair off this little dink!” So I dropped down on this little red dink’s back, put my spurs over the points of his shoulders and hollered, “Open the gate”.
for your horse
for your body ®
Made in the USA
excellent for...
picking • bandaging • applying studs • clipping trimming • rasping and so much more
Contact us for your free DVD and the dealer nearest you
+1-208-278-5283 • www.hoofjack.com
24 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE - October 2013
www.horsebackmagazine.com
What happened next is hard to say. The first jump out, Ol’ Dink snatched my arm out of its socket. I think I rode him just sittin up there watchin’ my arm flopping around in front of me. Time seemed to stand still; I still had my spurs where they were supposed to be. But Dink wasn’t where he was supposed to be, I mean, my legs were pointed forward, but Dink was sideways under me. How the heck did that happen? The next jump my head was slammed back into his butt, dang…this little horse must be made of iron! That hurt! For what seemed like the next hour, Ol’ Dink flung me around like a rag doll. I had both feet on the same side several times and at one point both feet were on either side of his butt. Still don’t know how that happened, the only thing I can figure is that my arm was twisting around in its socket (it is a ball joint, after all!). When Dink finally let me go, he flung me high enough that I could look down at my buddies who were all laying on ground and holding their sides. Seems I was the topic of some humor at the moment. But I was really not concerned about them because at that point I was reminded of the law of gravity. I descended toward the ground at the rate an F-15 screams across the sky. I swear I heard a sonic boom as I broke the sound barrier
somewhere around Mach 9. I thought back to those red and white chaps. I was really wishin’ I had them. I could have used them as flaps, like an airplane, to slow my speed! But I was not so blessed. I knew that if I didn’t slow my speed, I might hit the ground hard enough to say howdy to ol’ satan. But being the quick thinker that I am, I quickly thought of a way to slow down. I aimed my face toward the ground (thus putting Murphy’s, or was it Ty Murray’s Law, into effect. The one that says “when you throw a cowboy in the air, he is always bound to land face first). As I hit the ground, my career changed for about 60 feet. In an effort to slow my speed, I used my face to plow the arena with a furrow that would make a farmer proud. I think they grew watermelon in that furrow, I hear they had a bumper crop that year. As I stood up, spittin’ out mud and my pride, I couldn’t help but notice Ol’ Dink standing in the corner with his head down. He was looking a little like a 30 year old plow horse, but he was not foolin’ me twice. I knew he was Satan, just full of demons! My buddy headed out to see if I was ok, at least I think he was, it was hard to tell, he kept fallin’ to his knees, Seems he couldn’t breath he was laughing
so hard! As he got to me, I asked “how long was I on? Had to have been 10-20 seconds?” As he tried to catch his breath from laughing, He said, “No, it was about 4 seconds. The only thing you did right was marking him out. After that, Ol’ Cupcake had his way with you!” Oh, the shame! Bucked off by a horse name Cupcake! Come to find out Cupcake was the beginner horse. Turns out riding a bareback horse is quite a bit different than startin’ colts and ridin’ bulls (but then I wasn’t a very good bull rider either!). Thought I’d better stick to startin’ colts! This is the almost, all true story of my first and only bareback ride. I had some passion to attempt something that I had never done before. But I did not have any knowledge of how to do it, nor did I attempt to gain any knowledge. As my Dad would say, “I let my alligator mouth overload my hummingbird behind”. I was prideful and arrogant, thinking I knew it all. I gained some humility, realized I didn’t know all there was to know. “When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.” Proverbs 11:2 hB 10 miles south of Reliant Stadium www.arcolafeed.com 6215 FM 521 • Arcola,TX 77583
281-431-1014
Trade For A Difference Day!
October 26, 2013
Available at our Salado location
• GUARANTEED FINANCING FOR ALL • NATIONWIDE DELIVERY • 300+ TRAILERS IN INVENTORY ilers Formerly Wildfire Tra
14545 S IH 35 Exit 283 4212 Red Bluff Rd 880 Fwy. Blvd. S. 800 S. I-30 Rose City, TX Mt. Pleasant, TX Salado, TX Pasadena, TX 409.769.7992 903.572.3014 254.947.9988 713.920.1000
www.PandPsales.com & www.P-Ptrailers.com www.horsebackmagazine.com
Vendor fees will be $25. All vendors will receive a limited edition tee shirt. All vendor fees and a portion of the proceeds from the sell of the tees will go to breast cancer research. October 2013 - HORSEBACK MAGAZINE
25
English...
H
alf-pass, tempi changes, canter pirouettes, piaffe and passage are all beautiful to watch and so much fun to ride. Newcomers to the sport often want to get to those
26 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE - October 2013
“Take it to the Next Level with the USEF Test”
movements quickly. I have heard many uneducated riders say, “I don’t want to spend time on the walk or keeping the horse on the bit. I want to get to the fun stuff! Teach me to do that!” I’ve also had many owners bring their horses to me with instructions to train them to the next level and have found that the horse doesn’t have the foundation to score well at the level it is currently being shown at. Time, education and a certain degree of feel and intuition go into riding
and training a rider or horse in the intricacies of dressage. I can remember a rider, years ago, who actually put draw reins on the horse to keep it on the bit so she could shortcut to the “good stuff”. It took a while to get her to understand that while the draw reins brought the nose in, the balance was still completely wrong for any of the movements she was trying to do. I have had several people tell me that their horse does tempi changes because they have ridden through some rough lead changes. Understanding what balance is and how to develop it will make all the difference in how successful you are in competition. Every exercise you use in schooling your horse should be leading up to another
www.horsebackmagazine.com
exercise. Everything you do in a national or international test is to prepare your horse for the next exercise or level. Whether you are using dressage as a part of conditioning your horse and sensitizing it to the aids for eventing or simply to train it for the purity and joy of the sport, the basics are critical to your success. Never try to skip over something that is incorporated into a test because it is hard for you or your horse. There is a reason for everything and everything matters. When you read a test, note where the double coefficients are. They are marked that way because of the importance of the quality of that particular exercise. Make sure you train the walk and halt, too. Obedience, rhythm and energy begin at the walk. Show a clear difference between the free, collected, working, medium and extended walks. For that matter, show the differences in each of the gaits. Familiarize yourself with the purpose behind each level. You’ll find it stated at the top of each test along with any new exercises that are introduced in the test. As you read though, you will notice that the lower levels are simpler so you and your horse can build a foundation based on balance. Below are the purposes and introductions given for training through fourth levels as stated in the USEF 2011 Dressage Tests: TRAINING LEVEL Purpose: To confirm that the horse is supple and moves freely forward in a clear and steady
rhythm, accepting contact with the bit. All trot work may be ridden sitting or rising, unless stated. Halts may be through the walk. Introduce: Working trot; working canter; medium walk; free walk; and stretch circle in trot. FIRST LEVEL Purpose: To confirm that the horse, in addition to the requirements of Training Level, has developed the thrust to achieve improved balance and throughness and to maintain a more consistent contact with the bit. All trot work may be ridden sitting or rising, unless stated. Introduce: 10m half circle at trot; 15m circle in canter; lengthening of stride in trot and canter, leg yield; change of lead through trot. SECOND LEVEL Purpose: To confirm that the horse, having achieved the thrust required in First Level, now accepts more weight on the hindquarters (collection); moves with an uphill tendency, especially in the medium gaits; and is reliably on the bit. A greater degree of straightness, bending, suppleness, throughness, balance and selfcarriage is required than at First Level. Introduce: Collected trot; collected canter; 10m circle at canter; medium gaits; shoulder-in; simple change; rein back; travers; renvers and turn on the haunches; renvers. THIRD LEVEL Purpose: To confirm that the horse, having
www.horsebackmagazine.com
begun to develop an uphill balance at Second Level, now demonstrates increased engagement, especially in the extended gaits. Transitions between collected, medium and extended gaits should be well defined and performed with engagement. The horse should be reliably on the bit and show a greater degree of straightness, bending, suppleness, throughness, balance and self-carriage than at Second Level. Introduce: Extended gaits; half pass at trot; single flying lead change; half pass at canter; rein release at canter. *Double Bridle Optional* FOURTH LEVEL Purpose: To confirm that the horse has developed sufficient suppleness, impulsion and throughness to perform the Fourth Level tests which have a medium degree of difficulty. The horse remains reliably on the bit, showing a clear uphill balance and lightness as a result of improved engagement and weight-carrying by the hind quarters. The movements are performed with greater straightness, energy and cadence than at Third Level. Introduce: Collected walk; very collected canter; walk pirouettes; shoulder-in on centerline; working half-pirouettes in canter; multiple flying changes on diagonal; counter change of hand in trot; tempi change every 4th stride; counter change of hand in canter; 8 meter circle at trot. *Double Bridle Optional* When you have the opportunity to read the individual tests, notice how the basic school figures of circles, serpentines and diagonal lines are used throughout to develop each of the exercises in the tests. The tests are designed to use the bend or straightness of a line to balance your horse and make transitions. Each level prepares the horse for the requirements of the next level. And remember, never sacrifice your position. You have to sit correctly to be able to give clear aids when communicating with you horse. Then use your skills to cultivate the elements of each exercise to develop the requirements of the next level. Think of the USEF tests as a guideline for your training. Look at the big picture and then pick the tests apart to take your horse to the next level. hB Cathy Strobel has over 30 years of experience as a trainer, judge & clinician she can be reached at Southern Breeze Eq. Ctr. at (281) 431-4868 or www.sbreeze.com October 2013 - HORSEBACK MAGAZINE
27
English...
And, The Winners Are...
A
t first glance, Heather Hill looks like any other trainer as she smoothly moves a child’s foot deep in the stirrup and coaches her to straighten her back. But Heather is anything but normal and the children she is coaching will hopefully be one of the winners of tomorrow. A world record holder in the high jump and Grand Prix rider, Heather has never swayed from her gift of training award winning riders and horses. With year after year of accomplishment behind her, she is now looking forward to guiding Houston area riders with the same expertise that has made her one of most sought after trainers in the Midwest and East Coast.
28 28 HHORSEBACK ORSEBACKM MAGAZINE AGAZINE- -October October2013 2013
“I believe in a solid foundation of strength for both the rider and the horse,” Heather told me one late afternoon as we sat and visited between her lessons at Del Lago Sport Horses in Magnolia. “Children, have so many opportunities in the equestrian world today, and it is my privilege to help them reach their goals.” Joining with Ramon Arizmendi at Del Lago Sport Horses seemed the right place to be for working and training upcoming winners. With a barn of championship Warmblood horses and eighty beautiful manicured acres with all the amenities needed for training, Heather has set her sights on bring those students who want to excel into the winners circle.
For More information on training with Heather Hill and Del Lago Sport Horses, please contact: Del Lago Sport Horses, 713-545-7921 www.delagosporthorses.com Magnolia, Tx www.horsebackmagazine.com www.horsebackmagazine.com
2013 DURASOLE KEEPS YOUR BEST HOOF FORWARD!
DURASOLE Durasole creates a tough, living pad between your horse's sensitive sole and the world's hostile environment.
Saddle Up! for SIRE
Ride-a-thon & Family Carnival Supporting special needs riders & therapy horses
Trail Riders $60 entry ($75 after Oct. 15) 40 miles of trails ♦ BBQ ♦ Live music T-shirt ♦ Family carnival ♦ Petting zoo
SATURDAY
OCTOBER 19, 2013
7iL Ranch Cat Spring, TX
Ride Beyond
• Antibacterial, antifungal designed to thicken & toughen the sole and frog. • Effective for thrush & white line disease. • Ideal for lengthy use on chronically thin-soled horses without fear of drying out the foot.
Not riding? $10 entry Minutes from I-10 west of Houston overnight camping available
Available from ALVIN FARRIER SUPPLY Two locations to serve you: 2498 C.R. 145 Alvin, TX 77511 281-331-3636
Dealer Inquiries Welcome!
Prizes for fundraising & costumes! Sign up at www.sire-htec.org!
16915 FM 2920 Unit B www.alvinfarriersupply.com Tomball, TX 77377 alvinfarriersupply@yahoo.com 281-290-9550
in Bandera, TX
Luxury accommodations with limestone ireplaces. Over 6000 Beautiful Hill Country Acres!
Reservations: 830-796-7950 www.hillcountryequestlodge.com
www.horsebackmagazine.com
October 2013 - HORSEBACK MAGAZINE
29
General...
“Make it Count”
R
ecently, a guest was helping me put away horses after a ride. Standing only inches from one horse’s head, she pulled the lead rope toward herself, as she stared straight at the horse’s eye. She was mistakenly using her eyes aggressively, whilst asking the horse to step into her space and onto her right foot, so the horse refused to move forward. As a reminder of a technique that I had shown her earlier that day, I asked the guest to please move aside, and to hand me the lead rope. I positioned myself beside our horse’s poll, with my arm outstretched, as though holding a dance partner’s hand, I looked ahead, engaged my core, and took a deep breath. The horse stepped quietly, alertly forward, before I even took a step, and without any pressure from the lead rope. My guest responded, “He’s only doing that because you work with him all the time.” Although I was annoyed that she had thrown all the details of my body language, position, eye direction, and breathing into this throw-away bag of a remark, I recognized that there was some truth in the statement, though not in the way she’d intended. “Yes,” I said. “This horse has been with
us for years, and knows me well. But it’s not that he’s afraid of me, or that I have some magic power over him that makes him respond to me as you just saw him do. It’s that my signals to him, on the ground, and from astride, are correct and consistent, day in, and day out.” In fact, like many of you, I wish that I had more time, to work with this horse, and with each of our horses. Since I don’t, I make each daily task and situation count as a training opportunity. If I am leading a horse from a paddock to the barn to be groomed and saddled, I make it count. From a stall to the barn aisle, from the barn to the round pen... back to the pasture when day is done...I make every moment count as an opportunity to establish and reconfirm our communication and relationship with each other. Because my signals and expectations are consistent, my horse knows what to expect, and develops trust in me and re-
spect for me as a leader and friend. My horse can also trust my technique to consistently help it to move athletically and in balance, so it is more willing to try to follow my signals accurately, each time it receives them. When preparing to ride, and once astride, I follow the same rules of consistency and technique that I do from the ground. I avoid giving false signals, then expecting my horse to ignore them, such as pulling back on the reins when
I’m mounting, or asking him my horse to take its first step before I am balanced and centered, my core is engaged, and my legs are evenly on the horse’s sides. Whether in the arena, or on the trail, I stay balanced, and maintain a relaxed, yet alert position, while giving accurate sig-
“That stuff beeer be from Finger Farms!”
FingerFarms.net 30 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE - October 2013
281.659.5584 www.horsebackmagazine.com
nals for whatever it is I want the horse to do. I coach our guest riders to do the same, to the best of their abilities. Day in, and day out, I follow the same rules. Behavior that is rewarded one day, will also be rewarded the next, and the next. Unacceptable behavior, or a response that requires a follow-up signal, (See my article, Follow-up Signals, Horseback October, 2011), will be treated the same, no matter when it occurs. I’ve watched horses being unloaded, pushing and pulling their owners around, while those owners do little or nothing to correct them, explaining that this behavior is normal when their horses arrive at a “new” place. Whether on the road, or at home, these owners are not “making it count” by using each and every situation as a training opportunity. This dynamic does no favors to the horse, which needs and thrives on consistent, predictable behavior and expectations, whether from its herd mates, or from its owner/ rider/ handler. “Making it count” doesn’t mean that you and your horse can never relax together. You simply need to establish consistent body language, positions, and signals, that let your horse know when it’s OK to relax and enjoy your unconditional attention. For example, approach your horse at the shoulder, with relaxed body language, on an arcing path, without direct eye contact, when you are about to groom or massage it. That way, your horse does not assume that you are expecting it to move out of your space as you approach. It is also important that you step quietly and relaxed into your horse’s space, but that you do not allow
www.horsebackmagazine.com
your horse to step into yours, unless invited by you to do so. Likewise, your horse should only graze on the halter when you have given it a signal that it is OK, (such as lowering the center of the lead rope to the ground), after which the horse may lower its head to graze. Give your horse a quick flip of the lead-clip, or a tug, (not slow pull), of the lead rope upward, at the very moment it even thinks about grazing without permission, (not 5 seconds after its head is buried in the grass). If you think inconsistent communication and expectations don’t matter to your horse, consider how they affect our personal relationships. When we are clear, consistent, and honest with each other, our relationships thrive. But even one inconsistent event, such as an angry outburst, can threaten a whole relationship. In a different, but significant way, apathy towards a formerly unacceptable behavior can create confusion and lack of respect, in parenting and other relationships. Life is short. Each of us is given only so many opportunities to communicate well with our fellow humans and horses. As we walk through each day, we’d do well to recognize each one, and to make it count. As always, Remember to Enjoy the Ride! Dianne can be reached at Hill Country Equestrian Lodge where she teaches Whole Horsemanship year-round. Www.hillcountryequestlodge.com, or (830) 796-7950. hB
October 2013 - HORSEBACK MAGAZINE
31
General...
Horseback Magazine’s Saddle & Tack Editor
S
ome areas of the country have already experienced frost or snowfall, some areas have had above average rainfall, and some, like us here in the Texas Hill Country, have been experiencing exceptional heat and drought. Fortunately, we’re starting to get a little rain. For those of you blessed with moisture, mildew is a big problem on leather. The good thing about mildew on leather is that the mildew grows on the oil in the leather, so if you have mildew, that usually means your leather is well oiled. The bad thing about mildew is that, if not removed quickly, the spores will imbed in the pores of the leather and are impossible to remove. It’s easy to kill mildew with a mixture of white vinegar and water, 50/50. Spray the mixture on, let it set for at least a half hour, and then clean with a good saddle soap, lightly re-oil, and finish with a good top coat of some kind of leather dressing, preferably something with a wax in it that requires polishing so there is a glaze on top of the leather. The U.S. Cavalry used a wax similar to paste shoe polish. If the mildew has imbedded in the leather pores, I use a green kitchen scrubber to get out as much as I can, but you will always have black spots in the leather. I’ve said this many times, but I like to use pure neatsfoot oil. Other oils all have pluses and minuses, but overall, pure neatsfoot oil is still the best in my opinion. Two of the main reasons are that pure neatsfoot oil will not do any damage to any known stitching, secondly. It’s less attractive to rodents. Murphy Oil Soap makes a good
32 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE - October 2013
“Winterize Your Tack” leather cleaner, as do all types of saddle soap. Again, according to the U.S. Cavalry Manual, leather should be cleaned regularly with castile soap and ammonia, allowed to dry, then lightly oiled, then sealed. For the topcoat, I use Blackrock Leather-n-Rich most of the time. I also use Fiebing’s Aussie Dressing, and Williams Saddle Butter. On boot leather I use Blackrock, Propert’s, and Lincoln Shoe Polish. For rough out leather, I use Kali Leather Life, which is similar to Lexol Leather Conditioner, but has a higher bleed out temperature. Lexol is a good product, but with 100 degree plus temperatures, you sometimes find white residue on your full grain leather, which I have been told is the Lexol leaching out of the leather. I have not experienced that with the Kali, but the
clean their tack after every use with clean water, then wipe it down with Lexol. Their tack is supple and really in nice shape. Most of us don’t have the discipline to clean out tack that often, but feeling the condition of their leather makes me feel like a lazy slug. Many English barns do similar things. I don’t know of any western riders that are that meticulous. I try to keep my old Heiser saddle clean, but only take it apart and oil it about once a year. I guess it makes a difference if you make your living with your horses and tack, or if you just ride when you can, and hope that your tack will stay together until you get a chance to clean and oil it. When I had the store, we spent a lot of time cleaning and oiling saddles, usually a couple of years past the point that they should have been done. The other thing to do before
Kali is 3 times as expensive as Lexol. The most important thing about conditioning leather is that you do it. I said in a previous article, “The best leather conditioner is the one that you use”. I believe they all meet the description on their labels and anything that restores the flexibility of the leather is a plus. There is an English barn in Texas where my lady friend takes lessons. They
winter is to make sure your winter blankets are clean, repaired, and ready for use. My blankets are full of dirt daubers, scorpions, and mosquitos. I have my blankets hanging from the chest area on dowels stuck through holes in plywood suspended from the rafters. They stay readily accessible and are easy to reach and replace. Since I have been cleaning and repairing winter blankets, I have seen all www.horsebackmagazine.com
kinds of problems. For those who just use a blanket for extremes of weather, almost any blanket will help, but for those who use one regularly, here is my advice. Buy the best blanket that you can afford. The better blankets are made from waterproof, breathable ballistic material. Don’t buy a heavy blanket for moderate winter temps. You don’t want your horse to sweat under the blanket. Many blankets are available with light, medium, and heavy weights. My winter blankets are almost all 1000 denier cordura nylon. I have 2 blankets that are 1200 denier polyester outer shell, and they
hold up pretty good, but the 1000 denier nylon is stronger that the 1200 denier poly. There are some blankets today made from 1680 denier ballistic nylon, waterproof, breathable, and available in different weights. Buy the best you can afford, and the last mentioned is the best I know of. Your horse will do well in the winter if he has shelter from cold rain, strong wind, and extreme cold. I’ve always heard that a horse can take the freezing rain, cold north wind, and extreme cold, but they can’t take them all together. If they have shelter from the wind, they can take the cold and wet. If they have shelter
VA L E T
Free pick up & delivery in the San Antonio area, with 3 blankets or more!
Send To: BANDERA EQUINE VALET 2687 Winans Creek Road, Bandera, TX 78003 (830) 328-0321 or saddlerlew@gmail.com www.horsebackmagazine.com
from freezing rain, they can take the wind and cold. You get the point. For your tack, if you aren’t going to use it in the winter, some of the same thinking applies, but even more so. Don’t store your tack where it will be damp, overly dry, overly hot, or any extremes. Cold probably won’t hurt it as much as heat, but there should be a dry, moderate storage area, with a cover to keep dust off. Basements are often too damp, attics are too hot and dry. Ideally you want to store your tack at a temperature and humidity level where you would be comfortable. If you have a really nice saddle and bridle, a nice rack in the living room is ideal and will let your visitors know you’re proud of your possessions. Let’s hope we have a nice fall and winter with lots of good riding weather, adequate moisture, and mild temperatures. See you on the trail. Lew hB Bandera’s Lew Pewterbaugh has been called the most knowledgeable saddle and tack authority in the Southwest. For private fitting consultation call (830) 328-0321 or (830) 522-6613 or email: saddlerlew@gmail.com. October 2013 - HORSEBACK MAGAZINE
33
REALTOR Roundup TAMMY FOREMAN - REALTOR Hodde Real Estate Co. 112 W. Main Street, Brenham, TX
DEITRA ROBERTSON REALTOR Deitra Robertson Real Estate, Inc. 38351 FM 1736 Hempstead, TX (O): (832) 642-6789 (C): (832) 642-6789
DEE ANN BOUDREAUXREALTOR Texas First Real Estate 1116 FM 109 New Ulm, TX (O): (903) 322-3379 (C): (979) 583-7305
(O): (979) 836-8532 (C): (979) 451-2945 (E):info@hodderealty.com (W): www.hodderealty.com Tours: www.texas-property.com
(E): deitra@IKnowRanches.com (W): www.IKnowRanches.com
(E): deeboudreaux@windstream.net (W): www.texasfirstre.com
SPECIALTIES: Farms/Ranches, Residential, Country Homes, Land, Commercial. TERRITORY: Texas
SPECIALTIES: Farms/Ranches, Horse Properties, Land TERRITORY: Texas
SPECIALTIES: Residential, Equestrian, Farm/ Ranch, Country Property TERRITORY: Texas
TIM PHELAN OWNER Waller County Land 40040 Hempstead Hwy. Waller, TX (O): (936) 372-9181 (O): (979) 826-4133 (E): broker@wallercountyland.com (W): www.wallercountyland.com SPECIALTIES: Acreage, Homes, Horse Property TERRITORY: Waller County & surrounding areas. ANGIE FRANKS REALTOR Elite Texas Properties 12320 Barker Cypress Rd Suite 600-224 Cypress, TX
VICKY ROGERS REALTOR Keller Williams, The Woodlands/Magnolia 33035 Tamina Road Magnolia, TX (O): (281) 364-1588 (C): (281) 794-4133 (E): vicki@critterfixer.com (W): www.kwwoodlands.com SPECIALTIES: Residential, Equestrian, Commercial TERRITORY: Texas TOOTIE LYONS RIXMANREALTOR, ASSOCIATE Heritage Texas Country Properties 605 S. Austin Brenham, TX
LARRY JACOBS REALTOR Jacob’s Properties 14372 Liberty Street Montgomery, TX (O): (936) 597-3301 (O): (979) 597-3317 (E): larry@txland.com (W): www.txland.com SPECIALTIES: Ranches, Hunting & Horse Properties, Acreage TERRITORY: Texas BOB BORDERS ABR, SFRC, LHMS Keller Williams Realty 1595 S. Main St, Ste. 101 Boerne, TX
(O): (800) 563-6003 (C): (979) 877-5822 (E): angiefranks06@yahoo.com (W): www.elitetexasproperties.com
(C): (979) 836-3633 (E): tootie2@sbcglobal.net (W): www.e-countryproperty.com/page-46/ tootie-lyons-rixman
(C): (830) 928-7225 (E): bob@bordersrealestate.com (W): www.bordersrealestate.com
SPECIALTIES: Acreage, Homes, Horse Property, Country Homes, Farm/Ranch TERRITORY: Texas
SPECIALTIES: Acreage, Homes, Horse Property, Country Homes, Farm/Ranch TERRITORY: Brazos Valley Texas
SPECIALTIES: Acreage, Homes, Horse Property, Country Homes, Farm/Ranch TERRITORY: Boerne Texas Area
WENDY CLINE BROKER ASSOCIATE RE/Max Realty Center 13611 Skinner Rd., #100 Cypress, TX (O): (281) 213-6200 (C): (281) 460-9360 (E): wendy@wendyclineteam.com (W): www.wendyclineteam.com SPECIALTIES: Residential, Land, Commercial TERRITORY: Texas
34 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE - October 2013
Attention Realtors & Brokers! JOIN HORSEBACK’S ROUNDUP! Only $35/month includes both online & in print!
YOUR NAME HERE!REALTOR/BROKER The Best Real Estate Co. 1234 Main Street Houston, TX (O): (123) 456-7890 (C): (123) 456-7890 (E): info@bestrealtor.com (W): www.bestrealtor.com SPECIALTIES: Ranches, Hunting & Horse Properties, Acreage TERRITORY: Texas
www.horsebackmagazine.com
35ac horse facility with 2 homes. Main home 4300 sq ft 3/3.5 remodeled with upscale amenities, granite & marble, separate climate controlled wine room with 100+ capacity and wine cooler. All counter tops granite or marble. Kitchen boasts Dacor appliances. Mother in Law suite, oversized master bath, 2 vanities, tub w/fp, exercise area, large master closet with built ins. Master bedroom sitting area with frig & coffee bar. Pool with slide & wooden deck wraps house on 3 sides. Irrigation system and alarm system-owned by Sellers. 6 stall pipe barn with automatic waterers, vet stocks & hot/cold wash rack, 4 horse walker, 125' lighted arena, 75x200 lighted roping pen with return alley. 30 x 60 workshop on slab with roll up doors. Over 2 miles of pipe fencing. 12 separate paddocks, 9 loafing sheds with concrete floors. 3/2 rental bringing in $1000/month income. Has been continually rented for last 4 years. Double carport and deck with wheel chair accessibility.
43.92 acres Leon County horse training property, minutes off I-45 and a short haul to either Houston or Fort Worth. Charming 2/1 country home with separate guest house. Two barns; (1) 26 stalls with 15’ alleyway, automatic waters, 2 wash bays with hot and cold water, vet area, stocks and half bath. (1) 21 stalls with vet area and wash rack, washer and dryer connections and large storage. 50’ round pen, 150’ square, lighted arena, 175’ lighted, round pen, cattle holding pens, chute and alleyways, 150’ x 250’ roping pen and (7) 20’ x 25’ traps with covered stalls at one end. Equipment barn, fuel tanks and permanent dog kennels all on rolling coastal pastures, two tanks and all fenced and cross fenced. Several bunkhouses could be used for extra guests. Just add horses!
Offered at $589,000
Reduced at $400,000
Warren Ranch located just miles from Lake Whitney boasts 220 rolling acres of pastures, ponds and woods. It has a 2 bedroom 2 bath home situated atop a hill for spectacular view of entire ranch. This property has 17 stall horse barn with tack room, shop and additional hay barn. There is also a 4 stall horse barn, lighted arena, pens and separate guest house. Nearby Lake Whitney of offers 35 square miles of clear blue water and over 3000 acres of winding equestrian trails. Whether trainer, breeder or merely weekend horse enthusiast, this ranch awaits you and your horse or cattle operation minutes from town of Whitney and 58 miles south of Fort Worth.
43ac horse ranch in Madison County, 3 bed 2.5 bath 2650sf home with heated pool, 3 car carport w office, 1000 sf apartment, pool dressing room and bath. All pipe fencing with horse wire. 9 stall show barn w/2 runs, office vet room and bath, tack room, rubber mats, ceiling fans, cross ventilation, waterers and feeders. Hot & cold wash rack. (8)12 x 20 Stallion Sheds w 20 x70 runs, (9) paddocks w loafing sheds each w pipe gates to create 22 stalls. 6 horse hot walker and pro cutter flag system. 40x100 hay barn on slab w bunkhouse apartment. 2009 Oakcreek 3/2 mobile home. 150x300 lighted pipe arena w/Priefert “Score” fully automatic roping chute, electric eye, heading/heeling box, concrete walkway to chute and 20’ return alley. Heat and Air announcers box, w PA system and bleachers Drainage by engineer to insure dry ground. Two lighted 100’ round arenas w/holding pens.
Offered at $737,400
Offered at $799,000
Dee Ann Boudreaux
www.horsebackmagazine.com
TEXAS FIRST REAL ESTATE, LLC. (979) 583-7305 CELL • (903) 322-3379 OFFICE deeboudreaux@windstream.net October 2013 - HORSEBACK MAGAZINE
35
Real Estate
Replace Those Dead Trees, Or At Least, Turn Them Into Art or Furniture By Steven Long
W
hen Hurricane Ike made its final landfall on the Texas coast as a strong Category 2 hurricane on September 13, 2008, at 2:10 am CDT, hurricane-force winds extended 120 miles (195 km) from the center and tropical storm-force winds extended far beyond that. It was not the dreaded Category 5 monster that coastal residents have feared for a century, but it might as well have been for the damage it caused to Galveston Island. While the winds of the storm were modest, the tidal surge wasn’t. Because Ike was such a broad storm, covering much of the Gulf of Mexico, it brought tides with it that breached the city’s 17 foot high Seawall flooding the island city with salt water. Homes from the East End to well past the
unprotected western neighborhoods the island were flooded with plant life killing salt water, deadly for the 100 year old forest of oaks and palms that grew there. Within a few hours Galveston went from being a semi-tropical paradise to a blighted coastal town of 45,000. By horticultural standards, Galveston was starting from scratch. The same thing had happened once before following the deadly hurricane of 1900 that killed more than 6,000 people. Much of inland Texas faces a similar loss of trees but because of the killer drought of 2011 – 2012 (a natural disaster which in some parts of the state continues today). Texas’ beautiful canopy of trees is dying and
TOP: This table is Native Texas Pecan reclaimed from a drought stricken tree on artist Daniel Cherry’s client’s property. The table is 7’ x 7’ and weighs 520 pounds! It has breadboard ends held on by square pegs through an elongated tenon. CENTER: Yellow Lab & pups carved from old stump.
Automatic Gates & Supply Over 25 years experience in custom • FARM & RANCH designs & high quality gates, using the • COMMERCIAL best products available! • RESIDENTIAL • Apollo & Ramset operators, known for durability, performance, & longevity • Linear(TM) & CareFree(TM) entry systems • We provide the security you require with products p you can trust
Now Available Automatic Gate Timers! • Set them to any schedule • Timer stays on schedule until changed • Allows horses in/out on set grazing or turnout times Turn your horses out nightly to graze & keep them protected from the high sugar times or heat of the day. • Sales, Service & Installation • Sliding & Swing Gates • Electric & Solar Powered • Remote Operators
FREE ESTIMATES (800) 681-5420 • (903) 593-4283
WWW.CUSTOMGATE.NET
36 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE - October 2013
Keeps stocK tanKs clean Barley Straw treatment for liveStock water tankS • No more dumping and scrubbing tanks • Safe & chemical-free • Keeps tanks clean & drinking water palatable up to 2 months
www.stocktanksecret.com © 2009 Turtle Creek Farm, Springfield, NE 68059
www.horsebackmagazine.com
Deitra@IKnowRanches.com
Photo Courtesy of IShootRanches.com
S
STEVE GRANT REAL ESTATE LLC, 903-675-3503 • www.stevegrant.com www.horsebackmagazine.com
October 2013 - HORSEBACK MAGAZINE
37
Real Estate property values are plummeting from the East Texas Piney Woods to the cedar covered rises of the Texas Hill Country. Smart land owners such as Horseback’s Diane Holt and her husband Steve have fought the die-off by planting new timber. “To us, it is more important to replant more trees than we lose,” she said. “With the Texas drought lots of folks are losing precious trees, we have lost 2 large pecans trees and numerous mix of trees throughout the land as others have in Texas too, it’s a matter of replacing them as you lose them to keep the value of your land but most importantly it is giving nature a helping hand.” Some smart land owners are recycling their deadfall into firewood and selling it off. Others have turned it into fine art, created by Old Washington craftsman Daniel Cherry. In his small wood shop he has created museum quality tables from pecan and oak trees that died from the drought. “Basically, I’m a custom woodshop,” he told Horseback. “I don’t specialize.” When a client brings him the wood from a once beautiful drought stricken tree that has died, he has it kiln dried at a Huntsville, Texas sawmill. From that he turns the native pecan, oak, and cedar, into doors, cabinets and exquisite tables. In some of the furniture he creates, Cherry uses as many as four varieties of wood. “My favorite is pecan, but I love all the Texas hardwood,” he said. Cherry can be reached at (936) 8706061. Art crazy Galvestonians turned the devastation of Ike into a whimsical playground by bringing in renowned wood carvers to create art from saltwater ravaged tree stumps. The result is spectacular. Sculptures by artists Dale Lewis, Earl Jones, and Jim Phillips were created by these master craftsmen wielding chain saws to create everything from sculptures depicting winged angels, squirrels, griffins, and even Dalmatian watchdogs. The sculptures adorn the front yards of about 20 residences in the East End of the city. “It has made it very attractive to a lot of people,” said veteran Galveston Realtor V.J. Tramonte. “It is great to see how much they have done with it.” Real estate appraiser G.W. Cornelius agrees. “It makes it easier to sell the properties,” he said. “It makes it more profitable.” Enlightened property owners and their real estate advisors have taken natural disasters and turned that into things of beauty that enhance the value of their homes and ranches.
Vicky Rogers Realty 281.794.4133 Keller Williams The Woodlands/Magnolia
Live the Dream! $449,900. MLS#84488738 on HAR.com
WE BUILD CUSTOM FURNITURE, LAYAWAY ALWAYS WELCOME, FREE LOCAL DELIVERY,
ANY SINGLE HOME DECOR ITEM (excluding furniture) Valid Thru 10/31/13 Orginal coupon must be presented at time of purchase. Cannot combine coupons, one coupon per person. Cannot be used on past purchases.
TOP LEFT: Artist Earl Jones TOP RIGHT: Artist Dayle Lewis BOTTOM RIGHT: Completed Tin Man & Toto
38 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE - October 2013
www.horsebackmagazine.com
Trails End Ranch Sealy, Texas
Beautiful 20 acre ranch with pond located just 1.5 miles off of I-10. Great location within 30 minutes of Katy, 4/3/2.5 in a 3300 sf brick home that was completely renovated in 2006. Features a 60X62 Barnmaster building that includes 4-12X12 stalls with water, 12X24 feed & tackroom, plus a co covered and lighted arena.
Angela Franks, Realtor Dedicated to nding your dream! Trust-Focus-Dedication
Cell 979-877-5822
www.elitetexasproperties.com
Back of property borders Nature Preserve providing permanent peace and tranquility on this property!
Micro Rain MR32
Micro Rain MR25
“Paris” available Pinto Filly
Call today for more information!
ATS Irrigation, Inc 2509 Hwy 105 East in Brenham, Texas
1-800-656-2197
Visit our website at www.atsirrigation.com www.horsebackmagazine.com
October 2013 - HORSEBACK MAGAZINE
39
Lifestyle...
WILD HEARTS - Charity on the Horse Trail
T
hey call themselves W i l d Hearts, but whatever the name, this group of determined individuals get together, not just to have fun, but to forge a unique experience while supporting great needs and causes in the Houston area. Formed in 2010 by Dee Ann and John Kaus, the group has grown to over 230 members who bring their horses together for fun and charity. Wild Hearts Charity Trail Rides are not just your run of the mill rides. Incorporated into each ride are games and a sense of adventure. From scavenger hunts, to poker runs, this group of enthusiasts have donated to several foundations such as Susan G. Komen, SIRE Therapeutic Center, Texas Children’s Hospital and Habitat for Horses.
“The things you do for yourself will die with you, but the things you do for others will remain long after you are gone.”
40 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE - October 2013
This year they are hoping for their largest event ever – their First Annual Murder Mystery Charity Trail Ride. This ride will allow you and a partner (horse or friend), to become detectives in solving a mystery with all proceeds going to benefit the charity the group chooses. No one receives a penny of compensation with the group. It is all totally volunteers who want to make a difference. With no membership dues, their long term goal is to establish charity chapters throughout the states so that others can enjoy the fun while giving to others. Open to all who bring a problem to them, they work with individuals as well as organizations, from helping a child fight a disease, to finding clothes for a family in need.
Saddle up and take a break away from an arena and try a fun Halloween Mystery Trail Ride while helping bring in some money for a good cause. Like their name, Wild Hearts, they ride for fun with a purpose and a common goal of helping others. hB
www.wildHeartsTrailRiders.com
832-510-WILD (9453) The WHTR Murder Mystery Charity Trail Ride will take place in Conroe, Texas October 26th at Jones Forest Park. You may visit the website to find out more about this fun and exciting ride. www.horsebackmagazine.com
713-427-2487 www.aprettydoor.com
0 YEARS
FOR 6 EXANS
SERVING T
HIEDEN Feed & Supply, Inc.
North Houston's Most Convenient & Complete Feed Supplier
8-5:30 (M-F) 8-4 (Sat)
ALL THE HAY YOU NEED! Alfalfa Coastal Timothy Straw If You Need It We've Got It!
Nutrena & Purina Lone Star & Wendland Acco & Moorman's
281.444.1010 14403 Stuebner Airline Houston TX www.horsebackmagazine.com
October 2013 - HORSEBACK MAGAZINE
41
Calendar...
Event Calendar October 4-6... 1ST ANNUAL HERITAGE FUTURITY NRHA: $20,000 added OPEN Futurity; $20,000 added Non Pro Futurity, Great Southwest Equestrian Center, Katy,
October
October 9... S.I.R.E. RIDE-A-THON & FAMILY CARNIVAL: Benefiting S.I.R.E., Houston's Therapeutic Equestrian Centers, Hockley, Richmond & Spring, 7IL Ranch, Cat Spring, TX October 12-13... MEGA BUCKS OF TEAM ROPING: Great Southwest Equestrian Center, Katy, TX October 17-20... BRITANNIA FARM HUNTER JUMPER SHOW: Great Southwest Equestrian Center, Katy
Laurie, at Waller Rustic Furniture knows exactly where this great piece of western art will look its’ best hanging in a home.
October 25-27... GREAT SOUTHWEST SPOOKTACULAR ARABIAN CLASSIC: Great Southwest Equestrian Center, Katy, October 25... LADIES NIGHT RND RUSTICS: Ladies are invited to come and enjoy a night filled with wine, food, door prizes and, of course, sales - no kids or guys allowed. 6 – 9 pm 11510 FM 1488 Ste. 900, Magnolia, TX 77354 281-259-8889 October 26... SPRING CREEK FEED Pet Costume Contest & Party 1-4 pm Magnolia TX
Boots that will make every cowgirl see sparkles this Fall. Find your favorite at White Rock Country
October 26... ARCOLA FEED Trade Days, Arcola TX
October 26-27... GREATER HOUSTON MINIATURE FALL EXTRAVAGANZA: Great Southwest Equestrian Center, Katy
October 26-27... GHHJA HALLOWEEN HUNTER JUMPER SHOW: Pine Hill, Bellville, TX
42 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE - October 2013
Haley, age 2, knows exactly how to keep her horse “Pickles”cool in the Texas heat. www.horsebackmagazine.com
Ranch Critters
Committed to helping horses find peace and love.... There is no such thing as a unwanted horse and Ranch Critters spends each day finding the perfect partner and owner for horses who have just not had the luck yet to find their home in the world. Started in 2010, this 501C recue organization was named one of the best non-profits in the nation, as they spend every dime they collect on saving and restoring to health equines who are in need of love and caring. From Fencing to land cleaning, from feed to money, Ranch Critters can use your help, not only in adoption but with the every day expenses of caring for their equine charges. Give them a call if you are looking for a perfect equine pal to adopt or if you have services or products that they can use.
www.ranchcritters.org • (281) 414-4102 LaGolondrina, aka (Pumpkin), is a13 year old mare who is naturally gaited! She is a purebred (with papers) Spanish Mustang. This is NOT a BLM ( Bureau of Land Management) Mustang. There are less than 2000 of this breed. they are on the critical list, and have a rich history dating back over 500 years. “Pumpkin” is super sweet, halter broke and ready to continue her training with some lucky new family!
www.horsebackmagazine.com
“Pumpkin” loves one on one time! If you are looking for a very rare, special horse then this is your girl! At around 14 hands, she’s a perfect size for most riders. “Pumpkin” is an easy keeper and looks like this with NO grain. Just unlimited hay! Are you the right home for “Pumkin”? If so, contact Ranch Critters!
October 2013 - HORSEBACK MAGAZINE
43
General...
Reversing Sinking Coffin Bones- Part 2
Last month, I covered some of the warning signs and problems associated with coffin bone sinking (often called distal descent or sinker). This month, I will go deeper into the work involved in reversing the problem. This is serious business, and needs to be done by an experienced trimmer or farrier, and under the supervision and care of your veterinarian. But here are the basics: TRIMMING THE HOOF TO REVERSE SINKING As detailed last month, your farrier (or you) may realize your horse has a coffin bone position that is too deep in the hoof capsule because the heels and/or toes are longer-than-normal, in spite the fact that the sole is NOT excessively thick— these feet cannot simply be shortened to an optimal length without excessively thinning the sole. Your veterinarian may also diagnose this condition by using a lateral radiograph to compare the “height of ” the top of the coffin bone to the “height of ” the top of the hoof capsule (coronet-to-extensor process or CE measurement, see Figure 1). Either way, steps should be taken to reverse the condition. A combination of hoof trimming, specific protective devices, and strategic terrain selection can be used to set up forces where the sole, frog and bars are bearing more of the weight— the hoof walls are then bearing less of the weight. Generally speaking, preserve sole material, avoiding even “routine” cleanup of exfoliating material. Leave the hoof walls 1/8th-inch longer than the sole, but bevel them sharply—usually at about a 60 degree angle—as shown in figure1. On yielding terrain (or on a foam insole in
44 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE - October 2013
a hoof boot) this sets up the opposite of the forces that probably got the hoof in this condition to begin with, namely peripheral loading (allowing the hoof walls to bear all of the horse’s weight for an extended time). Repeat trims often enough to keep the hoof walls out of a primary weight-bearing situation so that they can settle into a more natural position (relative to the coffin bone) over time. (See Figure 2) But extra caution must be taken! The soles are certainly designed to bear weight, but not ALL of the weight—in a healthy situation, the hoof walls are supposed to be sharing this load. Also, the sole’s corium is designed for pressure and release, not constant pressure. Any pressure applied to the sole must release completely when the hoof is in flight! So during this time of rehabilitation, be sure to provide extra protection for the horse’s sole while avoiding any type of hoof protection that is rigidly attached to the hoof wall. Also avoid any protective device that applies constant pressure to the sole, and/or lifts the sole out of a weight-bearing role. If the sole is well-callused and at least ½-inch thick, the horse can usually be safely turned out barefoot on yielding
FIGURE 1
At first glance, this hoof may appear healthy—no rotation or flaring, and an adequately thick sole. But a timely visit from the veterinarian revealed a good reason for low performance and general unsoundness. The CE measurement is 2 centimeters (about 7/8th inch)—a quite severe case. This problem is often overlooked until it is too late. Photo reprinted from the book Care and Rehabilitation of the Equine Foot , P. Ramey.
terrain and these criteria will be met. However, if the sole is thin, if the terrain is hard or rocky, or if the horse is tenderfooted, you need to provide hoof boots with ½-inch-thick foam rubber insoles during turnout. If booting for turnout, clean the hooves and boots daily, allowing the hooves a chance to dry out for a few hours while the horse is barefoot and confined to soft footing. This may seem like a lot of trouble, but worth it, since we are talking about a very serious condition previously thought to be impossible to reverse. Riding can almost always be continued during this process—use quality riding boots, and discontinue riding if the horse shows any lameness or hesitation. If the horse is comfortable, and the hooves are trimmed properly and well-protected, the extra exercise tends to speed healing. LAMINITIS Sinking coffin bones are often, but not always, a direct result of past or present laminitis. If the horse’s diet has contributed to the problem, you cannot expect an improvement without also improving the diet. Discuss your horse’s individual
FIGURE 2
This is a typical trim I use to reverse (and prevent) coffin bone sinking. All or most of the frog and sole are preserved, while the hoof wall is sharply beveled. Generally it is important (for soundness) to leave 1/8th inch of wall height extending past the sole. On yielding terrain, this allows the sole to bear some of the horse’s weight, thus allowing the hoof walls to settle into a more natural position over time. Photo reprinted from the book Care and Rehabilitation of the Equine Foot , P. Ramey. Sinking Coffin Bones - Con’t. on pg. 46 www.horsebackmagazine.com
www.horsebackmagazine.com
October 2013 - HORSEBACK MAGAZINE
45
Sinking Coffin Bones - Con’t. from pg. 44
FIGURE 3
FIGURE 4
In Figure 3, aside from some hoof capsule rotation, this horse had quite severe coffin bone sinking. The heels and toes were too long and could not be significantly shortened because of a paper-thin sole. Using the methods described here, 5 months later, Figure 4 shows the same foot with a thick sole and a muchshorter hoof capsule—the CE measurement has become normal—the sinking reversed. Photo reprinted from the book Care and Rehabilitation of the Equine Foot , P. Ramey.
diet and body condition with your vet. Sugar reduction and general nutritional balancing is often necessary in these cases, and medication may be indicated as well. This was the case with the horse pictured in Figures 3 and 4: dramatic changes to the diet (sugar reduction and mineral balancing) and PPID medication were prescribed. HOW CONSISTENT ARE THE RESULTS? There seems to be a “point of no return” or at least “much greater difficulty” when the CE measurements are at or beyond
¾-inch. For many years I had noticed this, and assumed that it was because more ripping and tearing had been done to the coronary papillae when the CE surpassed ¾-inch (instead of simply bending and distorting). This is not to say that larger CEs cannot be reversed, but that it is less likely, and will be a harder, longer road— for one thing, abscessing is very common in these cases, and that alone can make a horse want to give up. When Debra Taylor DVM, DACVIM (Auburn School of Veterinary Medicine) and I first started working together we compared notes on this type
800-448-8180 www.StopsColic.com
Blane and Trey Wood - Leading QH Trainers of Champions “Next thing to a miracle. It gives us results every time. I recomHelp! mend that every horse owner keep this readily available on their Horse just swallows! Oral dose Syringe and small 4 oz bottle shelf. I take it with me when traveling and keep it at the barn. Easy to administer orally. For horses under stress from shipping, Bowel sounds return especially the sale colts that seem to be off their feed, the prodFecal Impaction, Gas, Light Sand, uct works in minutes. I will never be without it” Blane Wood Spasmodic & Watery Stool
Eliminate waiting for
3 year shelf life No temperature control Eliminate Shots! Eliminate walking for hours! Eliminate Worry! Natural Ingredients
Congratulations Wood Racing Team 1st and 2nd Rainbow Futurity Million Dollar Race July 2013
Will Do No Harm - “Drug Test Free”
46 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE - October 2013
FIGURE 5
Venogram showing normal blood circulation through the horse’s foot. When the coffin bone sinks too deep into the hoof capsule, this blood flow—particularly the supply to the laminae— is reduced. This could theoretically make a horse more vulnerable to laminitis and can lead to permanent tissue death. Photo reprinted from the book Care and Rehabilitation of the Equine Foot , P. Ramey.
of case. Using venograms (see Figure 5), she had been noting a dramatic decrease in circulation into the hoof capsule in cases that had more than ¾-inch CE, and normal circulation in most horses with CEs less than ¾-inch. The two stories fit together well—what I had seen in the field made sense. Another factor that seems to affect reversal results is the speed that the sinking occurred. The long, slow, gradual sinkers seem easier to fix than the sudden and severe founder cases. This, again, is probably due to bending and stretching of connective tissue vs. ripping it apart. As you might guess, the latter type also causes significantly more pain, which can affect the outcome as well. As with most problems, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. This why older farrier texts say to pull shoes during the off-season to “drive up the quick.” They were reversing a season’s-worth of sinking without even fully realizing it. This is why I personally prefer hoof boots instead of perimeterfit shoes—I like to load the whole foot to prevent this problem. This is also why pour-in pads (and other sole-support methods) are getting more popular among top farriers in most disciplines. Even the dirt packed in a shoe or bare foot can help support the horse’s weight and give the laminae a rest. And hopefully, of course, just being aware of the problem will help—so that you can see it coming and take preventative steps before it is too late. hB www.horsebackmagazine.com
New Book from Pete Ramey Care and Rehabilitation of the Equine Foot
Go to
Hoof Rehab.com for Detailed Outline
Featuring Chapters from the Contributing Authors:
Tack & Accessories Ranch Services WE’VE MOVED
Robert M. Bowker, VMD, PhD Hilary M. Clayton, BVMS, PhD, Dipl ACVSMR, MRCVS Brian Hampson, PhD Eleanor Kellon, VMD Kerry Ridgway, DVM Debra R. Taylor, DVM, MS, DACVIM Kathryn Watts, BS Pete Ramey
NEW LOCATION! 25143 FM 1488 Magnolia TX 77355 Authorized Dealer!
Mon-Sat www.wdfeed.com 9a-7p & Sun 10a-3p wdfeed@yahoo.com
832.454.2515 www.horsebackmagazine.com
Practical Instruction for the Equine Veterinarian, Farrier and Trimmer. Details Internal Anatomy and Development, Caudal Foot Pain and Laminitis Treatment, plus help for countless other hoof problems.
Order Information Order and see more details at HoofRehab.com or write to PO Box 232 Lakemont, Ga. 30552 Product Customer Service Line (706) 212-8600
October 2013 - HORSEBACK MAGAZINE
47
BB Business Bits
SayWhoa!
To Horses in Distress
Made in the USA by Stops Colic, LLC. Use as your First Defence Against Colic – Not Your Last Hope Keep in Tack Room when you are away on trips – show your staff how to use. Safe for Horses Any size or weight. Mares lactating or in Foal. Performance Horses Test Drug Free • Just Squeeze in Mouth Eliminate Waiting For Help. Just administer in their mouth - Horse just swallows • SayWhoa! To Fecal Impaction, Gas, Sand, Spasmodic & Water Stool • Digestive Sounds Return in 30 min
• • •
Eliminate Nasal Tubing Keep Handy in Your Trailer on Trips Keep Handy in Your Feed Room
Oatmeal Molasses Tee Woolman: Horse Cookies World Champion
Team Roper Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame • 2 Cups Dry Oatmeal
Jacque Woolman: • 1/2 Cup Grated Carrots Barrel Racing - NFR Qualifier, TBRA Reserve • 3 Tablespoons Molasses A 2 yr. old filly we have • 1/2 Cup Brown Sugar in training, was down easily and the color was back in her gums. in her stall. She didn’t Awesome product !! We won’t be without it. seem to be able to get ingredients. up and was sweating. Combine all above Stops Colic, LLC We got her to her feet Add enough water to make into soft 365 Blackjack Oak Road and listened for gut dough.Seguin, Stir well. TX 78155 sounds. She didn’t have 800-448-8180 any. We gave her the Place into oven www.SayWhoa.com on 365 degrees until product and within golden brown & crisp. 30 minutes she had gut sounds, walking
Your horses will love them!
Shweiki Ad Here
48 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE - October 2013 www.horsebackmagazine.com
www.horsebackmagazine.com September 2012 - HORSEBACK MAGAZINE 51
Horse Bites - Con’t. from pg. 8
during wild horse roundups on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands. Because of their remote location, the only effective way for the public to monitor BLM’s activities is through visual recordings by media representatives such as plaintiff- appellant Laura Leigh. Although the court below correctly recognized that there is a public and press right of access to such activities, it gave excessive weight to the Government’s justifications for limiting access to the horse gathers. In particular, it afforded too much discretion to the Government to decide whether observing the gathers was safe, without recognizing that journalists routinely – and critically – face far more dangerous situations on a regular basis without official interference or protection. In its holding, the court below denied meaningful public and press access to the horse roundups, while sustaining unconstitutional restrictions on such access. The lower court’s decision should be reversed.” Failure to Protect America’s “War Horses” Faces Legal Action RENO, (Wild Horse Education) – Legal action has been filed against Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) in federal district court. The suit makes two claims: Sheldon NWR fails to follow policy to protect horses removed from the range from entering the slaughter pipeline and that Sheldon violates the First Amendment by failing to provide meaningful access to horses. Sheldon has stated in documents governing removals, as well as to the public, that they provide protections for the horses from slaughter and follow up on placements facilitated by their carefully chosen adoption agents. Only after a member of the public, co-Plaintiff Bonnie Kohleriter, gathered information that Sheldon horses were still being sent to kill buyers did Sheldon investigate. Even after an investigation, done by Brian Day manager of Sheldon and John Kasbohm the program Director, showed considerable risk to Sheldon horses the contract was renewed with this same adoption agent. Sheldon NWR plans to send as many as 252 horses, at a cost of more than a quarter of a million dollars, back to J&S Associates of Mississippi, in early October. Horses residing in Sheldon are primarily descendants of cavalry remounts that served our country as late as the World Wars. Sheldon NWR plans to remove all the horses from the Refuge in the next two years claiming they are incompatible with the mission of the refuge. Even though a herd of long-horned cattle is protected at Wichita Mountain Wildlife Refuge, part of the same refuge system as Sheldon, the historic value of these horses that inhabited the land prior to the founding of Sheldon, is not recognized as worth preserving. “I cannot believe that Sheldon refuses to ensure safe placement of our war horses,” stated co-Plaintiff Kohleriter “these may very well be the last of the Sheldon horses that the American public will ever see. I do not understand why we cannot do all we www.horsebackmagazine.com
can to give them a chance after they leave the range.” A Temporary Restraining Order will be sought to stop the transport of horses from the range and to demand that documentation opportunities be afforded to document all horses in holding prior to them leaving the Refuge. Report card reveals diminished variability in world famous herd of wild stallion Cloud COLORADO SPRINGS, Co. (The Cloud Foundation) – For over thirty years, the genetics of the Pryor Mountain Wild Horse Herd have been tracked by foremost equine geneticist, E. Gus Cothran. His first revelations linking the herd to the horses of the Spanish Conquistadors and Old World Iberian Horses were cause for celebration among local supporters of the herd who long believed that the primitive physical appearance of some Pryor horses were indicators of their Spanish ancestry. Cothran also indicated in earlier reports that the genetic diversity of the herd was good. But Cothran’s newest report issued on August 22, 2013 reveals a herd at risk of losing genetic variability. Cothran states that “compared to past sampling of this herd, variability levels for all measures has been in decline.” He further states that the expression of the Spanish heritage is “stronger than seen recently,” but we could be seeing “the very beginning of evidence of inbreeding.” Ginger Kathrens, Executive Director of The Cloud Foundation whose documentaries about the Pryor stallion, Cloud, brought world-wide attention to the herd, feared this was coming since 2009 when the Bureau of Land Management announced plans to reduce the herd to population levels not seen in many years At that time Kathrens warned, “The genetic viability of this herd – their very survival – is at risk.” In response to the perceived threat to the herd, TCF filed a lawsuit against the BLM in 2009, challenging the dangerously low Appropriate Management Level, asserting that this low population would damage the genetic diversity of the herd and put them at risk of inbreeding and eventual dieoff. During the 2009 roundup, the BLM removed an entire sub-population of animals in the Custer National Forest lands, horses that had unique genetics unrepresented in the main Pryor herd which Kathrens believes impacted the results of Cothran’s report. The TCF lawsuit was expanded to include the Forest Service in 2010, when they announced plans to build a two mile long, buck and pole fence on the border between BLM and FS lands atop East Pryor
Mountain. The fence was completed in 2011 and it denies wild horses access to thousands of acres of high quality, late summer and fall meadows. Evidence from BLM and others indicates that the Pryor horses used an area that included most of the Custer National Forest lands to the west of the designated range since before the Forest Service existed. The litigation is still pending in Federal Court and it is believed that a verdict will be rendered before the end of the year. “We’re at the point where it is imperative that the Bureau of Land Management work closely with both the Park Service and the Custer National Forest to increase the range for the Pryor Mountains,” stated Kathrens. “Unless the range can be expanded it will be difficult to allow for a significantly larger population.” Cothran concluded his Pryor report, writing “The best way to maintain the current levels (of genetic variability) would be to increase population size if range conditions allow.” The problem of declining variability is not unique to the Pryor Mountain Wild Horse Herd. Over 70 percent of all western wild horse herds are managed at levels under 200 horses and so face the same fate. However, most herds occupy much larger acreages, but compete with privately-owned livestock. On these ranges, the wild horses receive less than 18 percent of the forage. Privately owned livestock receive 82 percent of forage. A call for fairness was made at the September 9-11, 2013 Wild Horse and Burro Advisory Board Meeting in Washington DC. Board member, Tim Harvey, asked that wild horses receive a fairer share of forage. In her public comment at the meeting, Kathrens called for increased forage for small, at risk herds. “If BLM continues their business as usual approach to wild horse management we will begin to see significant inbreeding,” Kathrens explained. “I have been talking about the need for larger herds in order to maintain genetic viability for 15 years. Maybe now, with this very clear report on Cloud’s Pryor Mountain herd, mustangs will actually be given a fair share of forage on their legal ranges.” Wild horse herds are managed on 31.6 million acres of the 650 million acres managed by BLM and Forest Service, while privately owned livestock occupy over 238 million acres. Livestock permittees on federal lands pay only $1.35 per cow/calf pair or for 5 sheep, a rate that compares with $16-20 per cow/calf pair on private land. Administration of the federal lands grazing program costs taxpayers $123 million yearly. Independent economists estimate the costs of public land grazing by livestock at over $500 million annually.
“compared to past sampling of this herd, variability levels for all measures has been in decline.”
October 2013 - HORSEBACK MAGAZINE
49
General...
Lead Ropes! Howdy!
Welcome to Cowboy Corner.
I
t’s been years since I wrote about lead ropes for Horseback readers, eight years according to Horseback’s extensive archives. Way back in 2005, I wrote about riding on ‘Ole Andy. We were moving heifers from a rye grass pasture that had played out, to another that had fresh grass. The phone rang and I recognized the number on the phone. A fellow was complaining I had inferred he was a redneck and I responded something like “Well, you only wear the boots in life that fit.” Came back: “I use the snaps off broken lead ropes to put on my key ring, and hang on my belt loop.” I was talking, of course, about the editor of Horseback Magazine’s habit of recycling heavy lead rope snaps into key chain fobs. I finally responded with the last word saying, “Ours don’t break ‘cause we make ‘em.” Steve, of course replied, “I see a story coming.” Properly tying horses or mules should be one of the first rider lessons, and there are at least four ways to cause a wreck by improper tying. 1. Tying with the wrong thing 2. Tying with the wrong knot 3. Tying too low 4. Tying too long Tying with the wrong thing usually means the bridle reins. Reins are for controlling the horse when in the sad-
50 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE - October 2013
dle, but the halter and lead ropes are for tying. The best height for your lead rope knot is at least chin high on the horse when standing relaxed. The best lead rope length is the distance from the horse’s chin to the ground. The best knot is called the tie up or jerk knot. It is one that can be quickly united by pulling the jerk end of the rope. When tied, the knot is secure enough that the horse tied for hours can’t get loose. Even then, if a horse has pulled back against it, with this knot it can be easily untied even after a horse has pulled back against it. This knot is a “must learn” for all horsemen. And now, back to halters and lead ropes. Halters come in the straptype made of leather or nylon and the tied rope type. Nylon strap type halters come in all sizes and strengths and are great for well broke stock. Tied rope halters are the choice for young stock because they are easily adjusted to fit different head sizes and are strong. Rope halters are also easily carried and lead ropes can be attached with, or without, a snap.
Lead ropes also come in various types and styles. I know there is a place in the world for three quarter inch cotton with snaps or five eighths inch, or three quarter inch, round braided nylon leads with clamped on snaps, but not at my place. Don’t think the saddle horse has been born that can break undamaged, half inch three plait nylon. My preface is “yacht braid” as the rope known in the marine supply business. The line, as called by seafarers, is pliable and easily spliced. So our lead ropes begin with a ten foot piece of half inch nylon line and either are eye spliced or a bull snap is spliced into tone end. The bitter end can be prevented from unraveling by seizing and burning or using a crown knot and back splice. The weak link of the halter/ lead rope is usually the snap. Many rope tied halter/lead ropes come without snaps and are plenty strong. The strongest snap I know of is the five and one eighth inch steel bull snap – and it is not cheap.
Happy Trails...
www.horsebackmagazine.com
www.steinhausers.com
HORSES
HORSES
HORSES
bet you have a dog, cat & other pet, too! Exclusive Infinia Red Flannel Science Diet Blue Buffalo Chicken Soup Diamond Taste of the Wild Dog Chow Country Acres Kit-n-Kaboodle Feline Medley Purina One Pro Plan Iams Nutro Beneful Pedigree Wellness Victor Puppy Chow Pup Cat Chow Friskies Kitten Chow
Wild Bird Chow Squirrel Hampster Monkey Koi Cockatiel Tortoise Dove Quail Finch Parrot
ASK ABOUT... Frequent Buyer Programs! NINE TEXAS LOCATIONS! 18821 F.M. 1488 6401 F.M. 359 228 East Front St. 34350 Katy Freeway 1331 Highway 6 West MAGNOLIA RICHMOND SEALY BROOKSHIRE ALVIN (281) 356-2530 (832) 595-9500 (979) 885-2967 (281) 934-2479 (281) 388-0388 4323 Avenue H 23250 State Hwy 6 S. 820 Business U.S. 290 N. 1422 F.M. 2223 ROSENBERG NAVASOTA HEMPSTEAD BRYAN (281) 342-2452 (936) 825-2081 (979) 826-3273 (979) 778-0978
Store Hours: Mon - Sat 8am - 6pm • Sun 12pm - 5pm (may vary by location) www.horsebackmagazine.com
October 2013 - HORSEBACK MAGAZINE
51
BALANCED NUTRITION FOR CONTROLLED ENERGY
Feeding anything else can be downright spooky
SOUND NUTRITION WITH ATTRACTIVE PRICING
Performance & Show Horses Pleasure & Trail Horses From Foals to Seniors There’s a Ful-O-Pep formula ideal for YOUR horse!
RELY ON FULOPEP’S BALANCED ENERGY FORMULAS
Better Feed, Greater Value
Ful-O-Pep San Antonio, TX (800) 752-0727 Cuero, TX (800) 242-3500 www.fulopep.com 52 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE - October 2013 PROUDLY MADE IN TEXAS Design: silverbuckleservices.com (c) ‘13
Dealer Inquiries Welcome... Join the Ful-O-Pepwww.horsebackmagazine.com Team!