Memphis Horses

Buck Brannaman on ABC: Lessons in Life from Horses

2012-01-25T12:45:00.011-06:00

Photo from http://www.brannaman.com

I just ran across this interview abc did with Buck Brannaman. Of course, "Buck" is naturally my favorite movie of the year. Yes, it's horsey....yes, it's got a cute cowboy....yes, I have a horse named Buck(Y)....perhaps I'm a bit biased? Nah..... or should I say....NEIGH?

The movie has gotten lots of buzz, and been enjoyed by plenty of non-horsey folks too. So, there's something of interest to folks about horses and their mysterious connection and relationship with humans. Even though the "Oscar's" have snubbed this documentary film this year, people have already chosen this film as a feel-good favorite! People have voted this enlightening film the winner of the People's Choice award at Sundance Film Festival and the Audience Choice prize at the documentary community's love Cinema Eye Honors fest.

So what is it about horses that draw people in? The reasons will be different for different people, but I believe one key has to do with horses' mystical, shaman-like connection to humans. Horses have an ability to "see" deep within what we often hide from the world and ourselves. Horses live in the authentic present. People do not. Horses will expose our "masks" and reveal our truth's. They can help us to better "see" ourselves, our world, and develop an understanding of broader connections...of our interconnectedness.

Why am I so fascinated with horses? It's really quite simple. I'm obsessed with "learning" and in my own experience, there has been no greater teacher of authentic, honest, truth in life, and present moment, than a horse. It's a profound experience and bond that transcends thinking, feeling, and reaches beyond to the soul. Who needs a phD when you've got a horse? Heck, even the interviewer made this connection....

Interviewer: "I thought I'd get a lesson in how to ride. Instead, I got a lesson in life.".....I couldn't have summed it up better myself!

Enjoy this interview and be sure to get more bang for your BUCK, and check out this fascinating man and his life journey with the even more fascinating horse!

http://abcnews.go.com/Nightline/video/buck-describes-abuse-finding-peace-15426113

Riders Prayer

2012-01-24T10:20:00.008-06:00

RIDERS PRAYER

Dearest Creator in Heaven, give me strength to guide my horse.

Make my hands soft & my head clear.

Let my horse understand me & I him.

My heart you have blessed with a special love of these animals, let me never lose sight of it.

My soul you have gifted with a deep need for them, let that need never lessen.

Always let my breath catch as the sun gleams on an elegant head.

Always may my throat tighten at the sound of a gentle nicker.

Let the scent of fresh hay & a new bag of grain be sweet to me.

Let the warm touch of a warm nose on my hand always bring a smile.

I adore the joy of a warm day on the farm. The grace & splendor of a running horse, the thunder of it's hooves makes my eyes burn & my heart soar, let it always be so.

Dearest Creator grant me patience, for horses are harnessed wind & wind can be flighty.

Let me not frighten or harm them, instead show me ways to understand them.

Above all, dear Creator, fill my life with them.

When I pass from this world, send my soul to no heaven without them.

For this love you have given me graces my existence and I shall cherish it & praise You for it for all time.

~Author Unknown

Its About Time

2012-01-19T11:44:00.012-06:00

It's about time for a post. I've been so busy with all things life...including horses, that I've seriously neglected my writing duties on this blog. I've spent most of my efforts this past year on my Memphis Horses Facebook page. I developed this blog based on my love for horses and my passion for promoting their value to people and communities. I'm a pusher of horse welfare, an anti-slaughter advocate, and a supporter of responsible horsemanship principles and management. In a nutshell, I have zero tolerance for:

Abusers of horses (mistreatment)

Neglect of horses (starvation/abandonment)

Irresponsible breeders (backyard breeders)

Horse Slaughter

Anyone selling a horse they cannot responsibly care for to auction/slaughter. Humane Euthanasia is NOT an arduous responsibility people! If you can afford to buy a horse, you CAN afford to give them a dignified end that does not involve abandonment, starvation, pain, suffering, or selling to auction/slaughter. If you choose such an option rather than to choose an ethical and painless option for your horse or horses, I have no problem calling you the Bottom-Dwelling Low-life Coward that you are! I make NO apologies for this sentiment!

Horse Auctions

Kill Buyers

Any person, industry, business, etc. that does not "Take Care of Their Own."

Horses give me hope. Horses give me clarity. Horses give me opportunities to learn, to teach, to become a better human being. I'm on a mission to promote these concepts to others. To inspire people to see horses as I do. As the honest, humble, strong yet gentle guides, teachers, and healers that I believe them to be. They are gifts to people. Teaching us how to "see" ourselves, others, and the world in an enlightened way regardless of our "riding" use for them. Its about time I get back to writing more about my experiences with horses.

Take Time to Smell the Roses

2010-12-05T12:34:00.003-06:00

How many horse folks out there have ever noticed how horses can show you how to slow down and live in the moment? I’m a busy body - I tend to naturally want to be moving. I simply have a hard time sitting still. If I’m sitting still, I’m fidgeting. Shaking a foot, leg, hand….I’ve often wondered, why it’s so hard for me to just chill! I’ve had people comment on it before. I even made someone giving a presentation nervous through all my fidgeting…oops! I’ve actually apologized for it and reassured people that it is a habit of mine….I’ve never been able to sit still well. I’m always thinking. When I have to wait on something, I’m thinking. Thinking about what I need to do, where I need to go, what I want to work on. If I got paid a dollar for every “thought” I had I’d be sitting right now on a beach outside my Mediterranean villa sipping a tasty beverage. One day, one day…. But I recently realized why I’m hard-wired for horses. Horses slow me down! They bring me back down to the moment. They give me the gift of being able to “see” life for what it is and appreciate it.

Okay, so they can also ironically turn me into the energizer bunny. When I’m around horses, I’m on a mission. I know what I’ve got to do, and it’s time to get busy. Typical day with my horses goes like this. Get to barn, grab halter, catch my horse (s) in pasture. Repeat, repeat again….. having more than one horse means more work! Oh, and let’s not forget the lesson horses and “old geezers” that sucker me into bringing them in too! Next comes either feeding, or grooming. I LOVE to groom. Every horse-lover has their own special “system” to this and bag of tricks. There is something about the “system” & business of it that’s calming- ironic?

Although I’m crazy about all horses, there’s one special breed that I’ve always had an affinity too. Thoroughbreds! Anyone whose spent time working with them will know what I mean in that most thoroughbreds don’t want to stand still or to walk. This is TORTURE for many! In fact, when retraining off the track thoroughbred’s, I don’t dare start them off by trying to first train them to stand still, or even walk when I’m on their back. This is just NOT natural for them, and by forcing them to slow down, walk….you may create a ticking time bomb that’ll quickly explode.

No, they need to be busy. They need to be moving forward. Pull back, they’ll go faster. It’s trot, trot, trot and more trot. Pretty quickly, in all that business, they start to relax. Their mind starts to slow. They start to listen more to you and you to them. And before you know it, you’ve got a harmonious team in forward motion both thinking alike, and almost melding into one mind. When riding them, all I have to do is “think” of something, and my horse will follow. A thoroughbred at this stage is so sensitive to the slightest feel that my aids…even at the subtle thought are transferred to them. For anyone who’s been here….this is a “WOW” moment. For those that haven’t, stick with horses…they’ll show you the way to this. Only the horse can teach you what this is. You have to be willing to listen though.

Eventually, the hottest off the track thoroughbred will get used to the “routine” and settle. As you both develop into a “team” you’ll eventually be able to start them back at the beginning so to speak, and walk before trot. But this “busy body brain” will always be hard-wired into a thoroughbred psyche and reappear at times. It’s part of who they are and why I adore them. It’s also why I can relate and connect with them so well. I’m like an off the track thoroughbred. It’s through my nervous pent up energy and moving that I’m able to settle my brain and have great ideas. I guess I have to exhaust myself to “calm down.” But the activity, settles my mind, body, and spirit. It makes me happy. When I’m working with a busy horse, I’m able to be in that moment. Make my body relax, and listen and respond to my mount. The horse tells me what “he/she” need’s to settle, and because I’m in tune with them and “listening” I can respond. When finished with the ride, I’m able to see more clearly, think more clearly, be in the moment and enjoy it and so is my horse! It’s a special feeling and one I’m truly grateful for. This feeling and recognition is truly a gift- and one that only a horse has been able to give me. It’s a combination of magic, spirituality, and something bigger than me and the horse. It’s truth, calm, and as close to heaven as I’ll probably ever get while on this earth.

Now, I’m not suggesting that high strung people start riding high strung horses! That can be a recipe for disaster. But speaking for the anomaly that is me- it works, and it’s magic. The very nature of all the hard-work that is horses is what keeps me grounded. Keeps me sane, keeps me focused. How ironic that it’s through being busy, that I’ve been shown by horses to slow down and take time to smell the roses? Take time to “see” life in the moment and appreciate it. I hope that you are also able to let your horses show you the way to this. If you’re willing and open to it, they’ll teach you to take time to smell the roses too, and appreciate what’s important in life.

I Ride

2010-11-12T21:58:00.003-06:00

Here's one for all you Independent Cowgirls out there! Thank you Stephanie Sudduth Cash for sharing this beautiful note!

I ride. That seems like such a simple statement. However as many women who ride know it is really a complicated matter. It has to do with power and empowerment. Being able to do things you might have once considered out of reach or ability.

I have considered this as I shovel manure, fill water barrels in the cold rain, wait for the vet/farrier/electrician/hay delivery, change a tire on a horse trailer by the side of the freeway, or cool a gelding out before getting down to the business of drinking a cold beer after a long ride.

The time, the money, the effort it takes to ride calls for dedication. At least I call it dedication. Both my ex-husbands call it ‘the sickness’. It’s a sickness I’ve had since I was a small girl bouncing my model horses and dreaming of the day I would ride a real horse. Most of the women I ride with understand the meaning of ‘the sickness’. It’s not a sport. It’s not a hobby. It’s what we do and, in some ways, who we are as women and human beings.I ride.

I hook up my trailer and load my gelding. I haul to some trail head somewhere, unload, saddle, whistle up my dog and I ride. I breathe in the air, watch the sunlight filter through the trees and savor the movement of my horse. My shoulders relax. A smile rides my sunscreen smeared face. I pull my ball cap down and let the real world fade into the tracks my horse leaves in the dust.

Time slows. Flying insects buzz loudly, looking like fairies. My gelding flicks his ears and moves down the trail. I can smell his sweat and it is perfume to my senses. Time slows. The rhythm of the walk and the movement of the leaves become my focus. My saddle creaks and the leather rein in my hand softens with the warmth.

I consider the simple statement; I ride. I think of all I do because I ride. Climb granite slabs, wade into a freezing lake, race a friend through the manzanita all the while laughing and feeling my heart in my chest. Other days just the act of mounting and dismounting can be a real accomplishment. Still I ride, no matter how tired or how much my seat bones or any of the numerous horse related injuries hurt. I ride. And I feel better for doing so.

The beauty I’ve seen because I ride amazes me. I’ve ridden out to find lakes that remain for the most part, unseen. Caves, dark and cold beside rivers full and rolling are the scenes I see in my dreams. The Granite Stairway at Echo Summit, bald eagles on the wing and bobcats on the prowl add to the empowerment and joy in my heart.

I think of the people, mostly women, I’ve met. I consider how competent they all are. Not a weenie amongst the bunch. We haul 40ft rigs, we back into tight spaces without clipping a tree. We set up camp. Tend the horses. We cook and keep safe. We understand and love our companions, the horse. We respect each other and those we encounter on the trail. We know that if you are out there riding, you also shovel, fill, wait and doctor. Your hands are a little rough and you travel with out makeup or hair gel. You do without to afford the ‘sickness’ and probably, when you were a small girl, you bounced a model horse while you dreamed of riding a real one.

Julia Edwards-Dake

Horse Lovers Saddle Up to Raise Money for Mississippi Animal Rescue League

2010-11-09T21:06:00.004-06:00

Updated: Monday, 08 Nov 2010, 7:31 AM CST
Published : Sunday, 07 Nov 2010, 9:02 PM CST

Kristin
Tallent

OLIVE BRANCH, Miss. - Horse lovers from the Mid-South gathered Sunday afternoon in Olive Branch to take part in the first "Ride For Rescues" trail ride at Kimberlin Farms. Participants saddled up their horses, making donations that would benefit the Mississippi Animal Rescue League, which is a non-profit organization.

"Dogs and cats, you think of them all the time but there's a huge issue with homeless horses here locally. We wanted to bring awareness to the problem," said Ashlee Pigford, a riding instructor in Olive Branch.

Several owners of rescues were on hand to share their success stories. Memphian Bob Harbin was one of those tender hearts in attendance. Harbin rescued a starving horse this past July, a quarter horse gelding he named Mr. Tipton.

"When I got him, he was 600 pounds," said Harbin. "He's right at 900 pounds now. I have to add, I had about a dozen people contribute feed and vet care to this horse."

Harbin credits the team work of his fellow horse-lovers for Mr. Tipton's improvement. He's hoping to find Mr. Tipton a loving, forever home soon.

Pigford rode Popeye in Sunday's trail ride, a 30-plus year old rescue horse that came to Kimberlin Farms malnourished.

"Believe it or not, Popeye was pretty frisky today," joked Pigford.

Popeye and Mr. Tipton's stories are far too common and in a struggling economy, cases like theirs are more prevalent. That's why Sunday's event at Kimberlin Farms was so important for those attending.

"Horses are a very expensive pet to take care of. They require a lot of education and well-informed owners," said Pigford. "We're seeing less and less of that and also people not being able to take care of them in this harsh economy."

If you'd like to learn more about horse rescue, or to make a donation, click on the links attached to this story.

SOURCE: Kristin Tallent/Fox 13 Memphis

Book Review for Playing With Lukas

2010-09-13T00:08:00.006-05:00

Horse-lovers, there is a new "MUST READ" to add to your list: Karen Murdock's book Playing With Lukas.

Karen's mission to show people how intelligent horses are in order for people to treat them better is indeed an honor to horses, horse-lovers, and all creatures everywhere! The special bond between Karen and Lukas (a 17 year old rescued off the track thoroughbred) is a testament to the power each person has to accomplish great good when willing to open their heart and mind to possibility...to learning...to their calling. This book exemplifies that the "value" of a horse transcends that of simply a riding or competition mount. Horses and people have the power to heal each other. This inspirational partnership between two "misfits" is about to revolutionize how people view horses and create change for the better for these majestic and magical creatures. At the very least, Lukas has made the average adult laugh more often!

Thanks Karen for your determination and vision, Lukas for your curiosity and humor, and you both for your inspirational teachings. Reading about Karen and Lukas's journey, has reinforced for me as Karen so eloquently stated in this book, "I now know, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that we are made kind by being kind." Thank goodness for kind hearts and open minds and for this book for promoting this concept. Lukas is the poster child for horses everywhere, but especially cast-off horses who deserve their second chance to change the world, heal people who need them, and spread kindness throughout an industry which could benefit from the lessons in good values that horses like Lukas and teachers like Karen have to instill.

Why Rescues Rock

2010-08-18T10:57:00.008-05:00

Popeye: 30 yr old Rescue Horse at Kimberlin Farms

Photo by Lauren Pigford of Lauren Pigford Studio

Okay, so horses of all kinds and ages ROCK. In my lifetime with horses (not divulging age here) I’ve stumbled upon a “secret” value to horses that I wish to share with others. This “secret” is quite simply that “Rescues Rock!” Naturally, people attach a value to a horse based on performance, competition value, or riding ability. So what value does ole back-yard Smokey, or Old Geezer Blue, or Lame Jane possibly have to offer? Even if they can be ridden, they aren’t competition worthy. What does that skinny horse down the street in the neighbor’s small, barren pasture possibly have to offer? If they’re skinny that just means their old, right? Old horses get skinny, right? Sure, they look bad, but there’s a reason….they must just be sick. Hum…all of them…that must be it?

Chances are, that skinny horse you drive by is a diamond in the rough just needing a little polishing in order to shine brightly once again. As is the case with the rescue horses I’ve encountered in my lifetime. One being my very first horse, Sampson, an OTTB who’d been “turned out to pasture” and forgotten for years to basically fend for himself in Mississippi. My mom and dad bought him for me mostly because my mom, being a lifelong horsewoman herself, felt sorry for him and the emaciated state he was in. She knew his luck would run out soon, and didn’t want to see him end up at the “killers”—even though he wouldn’t have brought much price for pound because of being so underweight. But, also, she was able to see something in his eyes that others had missed. This is because she’d been taught by horses to look beyond and see the hidden value…..the potential. She’d learned from horses to give chances and to take risks, no matter what others tell you makes sense or doesn’t. She learned from horses to listen to her own heart and instincts…and that voice inside that tells us which path to take.

Well, she was right! Sammy went on to become the most awe-inspiring, wondrous teacher I’ve had to date in my lifetime. I know without a doubt that horse loved me & was GRATEFUL for having found me after going through his rough years of hunger and neglect. This horse was ride able….and show -worthy. He was a self-confidence builder for me and a lesson that hard-work and gritty determination does pay off. It wasn’t easy; many a time did he dump me and challenge me! Many a time did I learn to meet his challenge! He let me know that force would never equal success with him. If a fight was what I wanted, you better believe he’d deliver! I realize now, he “let” me win some….but he eventually taught me how to more effectively “win” his challenges! He showed me through trial and error that true success comes through patience and consistency and not tiresome, yeehaw, stubborn (I’m after all a Taurus)”Horse you WILL do what I ask!” dominance.

Sampson was one of my greatest accomplishments. But far greater than the beauty and wonderful riding horse that he became, which consequently made me a good rider, was the special bond and relationship that we formed. Going through trials and tribulation…the ups and the downs….the humility and the success… my greatest joy was simply walking in the barn, calling out “Sammy Sue” and having him run to his stall door and nicker with wild excitement every time I came in the barn. That horse was ALWAYS happy to see me and let me know it! Every time he greeted me was like the first time he’d ever seen me. He was ALWAYS grateful to have me to his very last day! Anthropomorphize this or that… his unconditional, loyal, and count on me affection….genuine LOVE……warms my soul to this day and is one of the main reasons I’m on such a mission to spread the joy that all horses, but especially rescue horses, have to offer people.

Horses teach lessons in love and the self-confidence and respect that consequently develop from such bonds. Horses teach you the value that lies within your own hearts. They show us our own capacity to love, selflessly, and the rewards of such that feed our souls and help us to inspire, encourage others, and meet the challenges that life throws at us. They teach us that success in life is not railroading down the train tracks rolling over anything and everyone in our path. Sure, we may get ahead that way- for awhile. We may be profitable and successful in terms of society’s standards for success. But how will we “feel” about ourselves? Will our soul’s be at peace, be content, be happy and joyful? You will have to answer this question for yourself. For me, rescue horses have given me my answer.

Rescue horses are special amongst horses. Rescue horses never forget where they came from, what they’ve gone through. Rescue horses communicate more effectively with people. Some words that sum up rescue horses from my own experiences are: grateful, courageous, loyal, and open to communication. I’m not sure I can explain this adequately, but there is something about them that makes them extra special when it comes to being effective teachers. Their own breadth of experience makes them wiser. They are on another plane, a higher level. They see into our own hearts and more quickly reflect our own strengths and weaknesses. They just plain better understand us and bond with people more quickly and more powerfully. They leave us with an experience that we can draw upon long after they’re gone. The value is forever with us as we walk through our own life and meet the challenges that will inevitably come our way. We all have challenges. I have huge challenges ahead, but I’m not giving up. The harder I fall, the longer I’ll climb and the more determined I’ll be to reach the top of where I’m climbing to. But I won’t railroad others along the way. I won’t steam roll on past and not stop when I see reason to slow down! I’ll get where I’m going, and I’ll be proud of it when I get there. I’ll be the owner of my soul because I didn’t compromise my integrity. All of this because of the most true and honest experiences of my lifetime with rescue horses. Experiences that I can forever draw upon for clarity, motivation and inspiration. Experiences which I can share with others in order to pass on the valuable lessons that I have learned. Hopefully, I’ve answered the question as to why I think “Rescues Rock!"

Horses and Learning

2010-08-09T15:46:00.012-05:00

photo by Lauren Pigford Studio

Have You Hugged Your Horse Today?

Equine Assisted Learning and therapy provides a unique opportunity for all people, but especially for people suffering with communicative disorders, learning disabilities, and emotional issues such as low self-esteem. Horses connect to their subjects on a level that does not involve “words” and communication becomes an interactive trial by nature situation. Horses "sense" our strengths and weaknesses very quickly! They size us up and test us to see who stands where in the "pecking order." In order for people and horses to truly "bond," people must "pass" such tests in order to work together with horses effectively as a team- otherwise, we don’t get very far with them! In this respect, horses teach us how to “troubleshoot” and help people improve their overall communication skills. If you can "understand" a horse and learn to "read" their thoughts by observing their body language, you'll probably be better able to "read" people.

Working with horses is very much a “mental” activity. Success with horses does not come from physical strength or overpowering them, rather from understanding them, gaining their trust, observing and learning to “read” their body language. They tell us volumes in the subtlety of a movement, gesture, flick of an ear, lick of the lips. Human willingness to learn this new “language” opens the mind and it feeds the soul. Once learning to “talk” with a horse, the horse gains respect and I believe shows you an unconditional love that warms the heart and heals the soul. It is not a selfish love, but one that is unconditional, honest, simple, yet an intensely powerful bond that can have a positive life changing effect on a person. It can be the first true glimpse of pure love, trust, respect and teamwork that someone has ever experienced. And all this, can come from the often gentle, persistent, and calming spirit of a 1000+lb horse, that chooses to work with us and submit their wild natural and instinctive roots.

Why horses do this, when they don’t have to….. sometimes still perplexes me? I don’t know many humans that would do so. But my own theory is that I believe horses to be our earthly guardian angels and teachers put here to help us “learn” something about ourselves. They can show us how we should treat ourselves, each other, and every living thing- with respect, dignity, and appreciation! They are mirrors of ourselves and reflect our own nature in how they respond to us. If we're nervous, they're nervous. If we're affectionate, they're affectionate, if we're hostile, they'll react as the big flight animals they are! Horses are after all, horses!

Most horses demand that people “earn” their trust. Not a bad survival trait, considering the number of dishonest folk out there! Once a human has earned the trust of a horse, they’ve earned a life-long, loyal friend. Not to say that horses won’t give “refresher’s” on this lesson….and test us from time to time. We must earn the right for them to view us as a leader- which they must accept us to be in order for the relationship to be successful. Horses MUST respect and trust us in order for their to be an effective partnership. This is when the true magic comes into play- when both horse and human have bonded, and work as partners and a team. Truly then, magic in the form of unconditional love, respect, enjoyment, and learning opportunities are born. This world would be a better place if more people had the opportunity to experience and learn common-sense, hand's-on, interactive lessons from some of the most effective teachers on earth- horses!

Summer Recap: Horses & Kids-Keeping it REAL

2010-08-08T15:43:00.013-05:00

Well, the summer heat is still with us, but oh my gosh.....school starts on Monday for many local Memphis area kid's....what? How the heck did this happen? Perhaps there are some parents out there saying, took you long enough? Nah!

I for one can't wait from a break from this HEAT wave Memphis is having. It's horrid for those of us addicted to outdoor activities, and especially difficult for our pets who can't come inside to cool off! With heat index's of 115 this past week, many poor horses have it rough!

Luckily, one of the highlights of my summer horse fun was before this annoying heatwave hit. And, it was still PLENTY HOT! My very first Summer 2010 Kids Horsemanship Camp was a BLAST and a great learning experience for campers and for me! It was a return to celebrating horses, educating kids about all things horses, and of course- good ole horsey fun! Some things I learned:

More adults should spend time with kids- teaching them about their passions! Kids need role models and something to get excited about especially in today's world! Learning should be fun and creative, but unfortunately our society has become so "systematic" and "procedural" about education-"right vs wrong," "A students vs C students," "this label vs that"- that creative and hands-on learning opportunities are few and far between! Why is society as a whole so frighted to encourage independent thought and creativity? Sometimes I feel like society is encouraging a bunch of drones & worker bees....I say, why not encourage more Queen bees? I love it when kids have the freedom, space, and encouragement to "use their own minds" and think out of the "box" creatively! Now this is REAL learning! The type of thinking the "real world" demands of people in order to succeed, heck, more like survive in this economy! This is the type of learning that occurred at my horse camp! I'm really proud of this!
I need to focus more on equine assisted learning, because obviously, I love horses, obviously, I love learning. I've spent almost 15 years making a corporate career out of it. Duh, bring them both together and voila... by Jove, perhaps I've finally stumbled across my calling?
When you share something you truly are passionate about with others, there isn't a price tag on the reward you get! It's a great feeling knowing that you are doing something that matters and contributing to a special experience and memory for people!
Sharing a passion refuels the soul, provides a clarity in priorities and direction, and provides motivation that becomes a force of its own. Whether I'm ready or not, some force greater than myself has grabbed hold of me and is pulling me in the direction I'm supposed to be going in. My job at this point is to keep up...and although I'm working my you know what off, from sun up to sun down, my work is a joy and doesn't feel like a burden!
Have fun and don't ever lose touch with your inner kid! Be goofy, creative, messy, pout, have a temper tantrum, let your parent's be parents and "baby" you if you're lucky enough to still have them in your life! Laugh often, cry often, move your feet often and turn off the TV!!! Eat your favorite food's often, hang out with your favorite people very often! Thank them for being in your life and be thankful for having them! Hug your dog, hug your cat, don't be afraid to pick up that stray kitten that's wandered into your life and open your heart to it! Tell fear and reason to take a hike....life's worth living, not missing because your too "Afraid" of what you'll do right or what you may do wrong.....Naturally, hug your horse and spend lots and LOTS of time with him/her/them....after all, they are to thank for many lessons you've learned in life. For myself, horses are to thank for items 1-5 posted here! Without horses, I'd probably be a narrow minded, bitter, and angry person obsessed with things I can't take with me six feet under!

At my horse camp, I got to be a "big kid" and relive my childhood. The most important lesson I learned: EVERY ADULT NEEDS TO BE A KID ONCE IN AWHILE! This keeps us REAL! God Bless Kids and Horses for reminding me, what's REALly important :)

Why My Memphis Horse Camp?

2010-07-14T14:11:00.010-05:00

Camp Contact Information:
Ashlee Pigford

901-210-5920
www.KimberlinFarms.com
Info@KimberlinFarms.com

The Kid’s Horsemanship day camp being offered at Kimberlin Farm’s located on Center Hill Road in Olive Branch, MS on July 23-25th from 9am to 2pm , promises to be a unique educational experience that’s sure to leave a lasting impression on attending campers! While horse camps are not unusual during the summer in the Memphis area, this one offers some unique perspectives, lessons, and experiences that others do not!

This camp is more than just being about horses and riding. This camp is about LEARNING good old fashion values that often are missing in today’s society. It is about far more than just horseback riding, there are numerous camps which primarily emphasize this! This camp is for kids who want to LEARN all about horses including the care and consistent work that is associated with responsible horsemanship. The purpose of this camp is NOT that of a summer daycare program OR that of an extended riding lesson! This camp is an educational and fun experience where students will learn about respect, responsibility, patience, listening, communication, and teamwork! Surprisingly, all of these values and characteristics can be taught by HORSES! With the help of an experienced facilitator knowledgeable in how to bring such lessons to light for students, in a FUN, interactive, and memorable way!

Unlike many camps, this one will NOT be turned over to assistant camp counselor’s to lead! This camp is a well-planned, educational, and strategized “horsemanship” boot camp! Led by an Instructor with 15+ years Corporate Training and Curriculum Design experience and a life-time spent with horses! Meet Ashlee Pigford, horse-lover, author, and corporate professional who never “outgrew” her passion for horses or learning! She is the founder of Memphis Horses, a local networking project promoting affordable and responsible horse ownership, and equine advocacy practices in Memphis, TN and beyond! Ashlee is not only experienced with horses, but also an experienced Teacher. Ashlee has a combined 15+ years worth of experience working with children of all ages, and adults. She has worked as School Teacher (including Special Education) and a Corporate Trainer and Instructional Designer for the following:

Memphis Botanic Garden’s Youth Education Program in Memphis, TN
Bellview Christian Academy in Pensacola, FL
Memphis Association of REALTORS® in Memphis, TN
FedEx Services TSC Center in Collierville, TN
Horseback Riding Instructor at Kimberlin Farms, Olive Branch, MS

This camp is geared to those wanting a different “camp” experience for their children led by a talented, innovative, and creative Learning Professional who will instill lasting memories and core values using her innovative teaching style with horses!

Ashlee’s camp covers overall horsemanship skills: care, behavior, handling….in addition to campers being able to experience a variety of horse and pony breeds, ages,sizes, colors, and shapes! Children will meet rescue horses and hear their success stories, and even get their autograph's! In addition, campers will get to experience a variety of riding disciplines including english and western riding AND carriage driving! Demonstrations of riding and driving styles will also be given! This wide range of exposure- riding, carriage driving, and horsemanship principals taught by a professional Trainer- of people and horses, promises to deliver on education & fun!

What IS Memphis Horses?

2010-07-03T17:04:00.005-05:00

Memphis Horses, which started out as a blog, is evolving into a local Equine Advocacy Networking Project on a mission to provide a networking and collaborative platform for both local horse-lover's and equine enthusiasts from all over the nation! Our purpose is to help both horses and people by providing information, awareness, education, and a platform to discuss responsible horse ownership, practices, and management that will hopefully encourage responsible growth in the equine industry.

This network has already assisted in the rescue of several horses locally, and has provided both advice and a sounding board for locals having questions about all things horses. We are working to make positive strides in the horse industry locally and encourage more people to get involved in paying it forward for horses!

Memphis Horses celebrates horses and promotes affordable and responsible horse ownership, and equine advocacy practices in Memphis, TN and beyond! We encourage collaboration of ideas, suggestions, advice, rescue information, etc. Do you want to make positive strides in the horse industry locally, and network with like-minded horse-folk? Well then, you've come to a great place to do just that! High Hooves to you for your interest in paying it forward for horses!

Ten Ways To Get In Shape To Own A Horse

2010-06-23T10:21:00.005-05:00

Here's a little horse humor that will have you horsey-folk's rolling over in your pastures! Thanks to Stephanie Cash for sharing!!!

1. Drop a heavy steel object on your foot. Don't pick it up right away. Shout "Get off,stupid! Get off!"

2. Leap out of a moving vehicle and practice "Relaxing into the fall". Roll lithely into a ball, and spring to your feet!

3. Learn to grab your checkbook out of your purse/pocket and write out a $200. check without even looking down.

4. Jog long distances carrying a halter and holding out a carrot. Go ahead and tell the neighbors what you're doing.They might as well know now.

5. Affix a pair of reins to a moving freight train and practice pulling it to a halt. And smile as if you are really having fun.

6. Hone your fibbing skills. "See hon, moving hay bales is fun!" and " I'm glad your lucky performance and multi-million dollar horse won you first place - I'm just thankful that my hard work and actual ability won me second place".

7. Practice dialing your chiropractors number with both arms paralyzed to the shoulder, and one foot anchoring the lead rope of a frisky horse.

8. Borrow the US Army slogan; "Be all that you can be'...(add) bitten, thrown, kicked, slimed, trampled."

9. Lie face down in the mud in your most expensive riding clothes and repeat to yourself: "This is a learning experience, this is a learning experience,..."

10. Marry Money!

Via Stephanie Cash

Happy Tails: Popeye the Rescue Horse

2010-05-27T14:39:00.008-05:00

I witnessed a truly inspiring and motivational sight last night that I wanted to share with fellow horse lovers. Horse rescue is not for the faint of heart. It can force a lamb to become lion once many horse industry "dirty little secrets" are exposed. Issues such as: unwanted horses, horse slaughter, over breeding, starvation, neglect, etc. With so much disturbing news that often comes with the equine advocacy territory, it's important to spread some happy "tails" too. An over abundance of "bad news" becomes depressing, overwhelming, and becomes a turn-off. We all need a little motivation and inspiration, so here's your equine feel-good boost for the week. I hope you realize its value as much as I have!

Last night, I was teaching a riding lesson to a fabulous new beginner riding student. An adult, who has always wanted to learn how to ride horses, and has decided it's about time to get with the program of tackling a dream! I've found a commonality working with training adults (both in the realm of horses, and corporate training), which is that adults bring all their "baggage" to the table with them in learning. Most of this junk is "trash" holding them back and hindering learning progress. A lot of this trash comes in the form of irrational fear. As a trainer- both horse instructor and corporate- my job is to help students constructively handle fear and know what trash to take out and what to salvage! Kid's have considerably less emotional baggage in this respect and are often easier to teach because of this. But that's another post for another day, another topic. Last night, I introduced this new student to Popeye.

I've written of Popeye before- aka "Pops" and he never lets me down when it comes to inspiration! I'm very proud of this fellow because he proves what power strength of spirit can have! Pops came to us several years ago, an emaciated skeletal shell of a horse, with terrible open saddle sores, and covered in rain rot. Despite all of this, he had four shod feet- ironic. He'd been used in a riding camp, and for whatever reason, had been deemed no longer useful. He'd been starved- and was again emaciated. I'd like to emphasize that emaciation doesn't just happen overnight, it takes time. Long story short, Popeye was lucky, Popeye got a second chance at life.

One of the traits that has always struck me about this horse, is his persistence, his gentleness, his positive spirit. Despite the horrid condition this horse came to us in, and the blatant cruelty and suffering he'd endured, he wasn't jaded by it. The abuse he endured is enough to turn a human into a monster. Make one bitter, resentful, manipulative, obsessive, compulsive, angry, mad....but not Popeye. He instantly recognized and appreciated kindness when he'd found it again, and at that moment, forgave. He holds absolutely no anger, fear hang-ups, flashbacks.....most would. Popeye lives every single day, relishing in the simple joys of being a horse. He doesn't miss an opportunity to eat, sleep, poop, wander about the farm, stand in front of a fan, sneak up behind you and ask for a snuggle.... he's just happy and grateful.

Adults have fear. The fear of the "unknown" can cause paralysis. It can prevent fun, it can be irrational, it robs. I work very, very slowly with my students- especially timid ones. These are the one's who most need the self-confidence boost that riding a 1,000 lb animal in forward motion can provide. Give them the time and space they need to conquer their fears and before you know it, you've got a brave, enthusiastic, horseback riding machine on your hands! It's fun to see the transformation. Now this is where Pops comes back into the picture.

Back to the lesson. I used Popeye in this lesson with my new student because she needed the confidence boost that comes with riding different horses. Popeye is deceiving. To look at his droopy lip, his shut eyes, his now fat belly, you'd think he can't go faster than the speed of a shuffle. Popeye proves another point, that looks can be deceiving! Sit on Popeye's back and all of a sudden you've got a collected, forward moving, balanced, hunk of a horse- who may ride like an easy boy recliner due to his build, but trots with an impulsion that makes one RIDE! It's a workout, but it's 100% FUN and a glimpse to new students what riding a balanced, big-strided trot will be!

Because of what he was- he is now! Popeye, might I add, is nearly thirty years old! When I watched this enthusiastic, happy, willing horse come to life being ridden in this lesson yesterday, giving my beginner student a new ride, a new joy, a glimmer into what's to come, enthusiasm and a much needed self-confidence boost, I could see Popeye twenty five years ago. Boy oh boy, what a firecracker this boy must have been at age 5! But so happy to have this valuable horse around at nearly age 30 to still teach such valuable lessons to both his riding students and myself as instructor.

Learning is a double-edged sword, it happens for both teacher and student. If I could ask Popeye one question, and gain some knowledge from his "words of wisdom" it would be this: "So Popeye, what have you learned from humans over the years?" I can't help but wonder what his answer would be.... I'm sure it would make me smile and give him a big hug. But, I'm going to do that anyway! I hope that Pop's has learned something of value from me, Thanks Pops!

A Tribute to Charcoal Sketch

2010-05-21T10:50:00.010-05:00

Yesterday my sister Hillary, had to say goodbye to a piece of her heart. She lost dear, sweet Charcoal Sketch- otherwise known as "Sketch" often known as "Pig Pen" when mud around! My parent's bought Sketch for Hillary when he'd just turned 4. A small TB gelding, with a tattoo, who'd actually been to the racetrack! He was gelded late in life....a probable attempt to spur on more growth, but alas, Sketch would remain a runt amongst horses, king amongst ponies!

Sketch was always a beauty and the sweetest, kindest heart and soul imaginable for a pony. He LOVED to nibble on things, and couldn't resist the taste of leather! Many a purse-strap, halter, etc he left his mark on! But who could be mad, with that sweet face and even sweeter attitude. He made you want to hug him, and hug him often did many!

My sister Hillary became an "Expert" groomer with Sketch. You see, he was a grey....who should have been a bay....! She knows all of the best tricks of the trade for keeping a grey pony sparkling! She's had lots, and lots of practice to perfect this technique thanks to Sketch. They both spent much time together "pruning". Sketch liked dirt....and he LOVED MUD! Many a time did Hillary and I go to the barn in our youth, to find Sketch truly a horse of another color! Maybe he was trying to be a chameleon- one day brown, next day yellow, and a master at those darn stubborn green spots!!! But more likely, Sketch just liked MUD....and didn't pass up an opportunity in life to make the most of one of his passions!

Sketch was smarter than most people! He LIVED life to the fullest and was the BEST pony he could be. He never wished any malice or harm on ANYONE, and always tried his best. He was never jealous of his bigger cohorts in crime in the field....he joined in the fun!!! He also never missed an opportunity to lay his head on an inviting and allowing shoulder and then put all of his weight on you.....slowly ..... to test you, in order to see just how much he could get away with! He had a sense of humor- but never took it too far. Sketch also had a special game we played "tongue" He would nuzzle your hand, start licking you, then stick his tongue out and wait for you to grab it. Yes, he'd tongue wrestle! I know, kind of weird, but he loved it! And, Hillary, myself, and my baby sister Lauren spent much precious time playing "his game."

I taught my baby sister Lauren to ride on him. He was probably "a bit too much pony" for a then little seven year old, but we trusted him. Lauren got thrown on him bareback with a halter and lead rope often..... and well..... he taught her to stay on! Many a times she came off! But he still took care of her and never took things too far. Lauren and Sketch were my first students. He PATIENTLY and peacefully endured many a lesson where I yelled at her, she yelled back at me...and my first student, ALWAYS out-willed me! This is where I learned that Lauren is even MORE determined and stubborn than I am.....hard to believe? It's also where I learned that it is more rewarding to share a passion with others and see the one's you love succeed rather than keep it all to yourself! This is where I began my passion for teaching! Sketch taught me to be a good teacher! It all started with Sketch and Lauren!

Horses like Sketch contributed to the special bond I share with my sisters.Sketch taught us as little girl's the many life lessons that have made us the women we are today! God bless you sweet beloved Sketch! I know you are free and happy and running with a special herd of horses in heaven that have indeed already been angels on earth. Thank you for all of the lessons and for the wonderful memories my family and I have to cherish! Dear Sketch, the pony who should have been a horse, who was often a pony of another color, you were one of the most special threads in my sister's and my life that will forever bind us closer together. Enjoy your mud puddle "Pig Pen", you will be missed!

Horse Hero: Shannon Lack

2010-05-08T08:21:00.012-05:00

Allow me to introduce you to another honest to goodness, Horse Hero- Shannon Lack. This special lady is working with a courageous and dedicated group of horse-lover’s to help horses who have fallen upon bad luck. Horses who’ve been forgotten, discarded, and whose value has become viewed as a by the pound commodity versus the value that most horse-owners place on their beloved equine companions. They may have been adored at some point in their lifetime by loving, caring owners. They may have served their owners faithfully and trustingly through their lifetime. They may, through no fault of their own, and with plenty of usefulness and potential left in them, have fallen upon the harsh, cruel, sad, unfathomable reality that is horse slaughter.

Shannon works to help find homes for horses that will end up shipping to slaughter and meeting their end at the hands of people who have no love, no respect, and no compassion for them. She is paying it forward for horses, and is courageously facing and battling this heart-wrenching reality that so many are unaware of, or unwilling to face, in order to help make a difference and help horses. She is working along with others like her, dedicated to getting down and dirty, in the trenches, and save lives. She and those she works with are making a difference, are creating awareness, and are saving lives.

Here is Shannon’s story of Paying it Forward for horses:

Shannon’s interest began from using social media and facebook. She began following Diana Tuorto from Horse Welfare Org. (Facebook page) and Lisa Drahorad from Another Chance For Horses. (AC4H) She found herself, compelled to help spread the word about slaughter bound horses in need. Although, Shannon is from North Carolina, she quickly found herself networking with others throughout the country to help horses. She began her horse advocacy work by cross-posting information about slaughter bound, healthy horses. Shannon, who does not own a horse, was called to action and compelled to help slaughter bound horses.

Shannon helps, by working weekly to raise funds and find owners for horses, dogs, and cats in need. Her group unites on open forum on Lisa Drahorad's facebook wall. Using this facebook wall, followers post information to help each other out. Simply by using social media, and facebook to network, this group rescues through Facebook alone, an average of 25-30 horses in matter of three days! That’s a lot of horses given a second chance at life and rescued from unimaginable suffering on their way to and at Mexican and Canadian slaughterhouses!

Shannon and her group works frequently with brokers that frequent New Holland, Pennsylvania auctions and other places. Sadly, brokers will frequently inflate prices to rescue groups in order to "make a profit" Many brokers have direct contracts with slaughter houses in Canada, and broker's can either sell privately or ship them out. Shannon and her group are well aware that prices will often be inflated to them and other rescues, but they forge ahead and continue to fight to raise the funds to save as many horses as they can. As Shannon points out, "It's a dirty business, but after all, it's not the horses fault they've ended up in such a horrible predicament." According to Shannon, Another Chance for Horses, is “the last bridge for these death doomed horses- their last chance to get out or go to slaughter. So we exhaust ourselves each week fund-raising and matching in homes. “

But Shannon’s efforts don’t end here. She also helps other groups with Camelot auction in New Jersey and she also manages posts for groups in Ohio as well for Greener Pastures that saves from Sugar Creek auction. This is an extremely difficult auction to save horses from, because sadly, the horses are shipped to Mexico that night. The auction owner does not even allow pictures. Making the task of rescue, very, very, difficult.

According to Shannon, each week brings numerous success stories and horses that have been given a second chance! One such memorable success story, involves two mustangs in Maryland whose owner could not afford due to a divorce. She was going to have them put down. One was eight and another nine. Shannon found out, and posted pleas for help out in order to help. Her efforts were successful. A Mustang Rescue in NC asked to help, and these two horses were saved.

Due to simply spreading the word about their story, these horses have a second chance! This is the power of social networking making change happen for horses and horse owners in need! This is saving lives! And as Shannon has proven, all it takes is an interest, some effort, and the courage to try to help, regardless of if the effort ends in success or failure. It takes effort, courage, and heart. These are the key ingredients that Shannon blends together to initiate change, and to do good for horses! Can you imagine, how many “forgotten” horses can be saved, if more people, like Shannon, were called to action, and willing to share information and spread awareness about the realities of horse slaughter?

Aside from networking to find homes for horses in danger, Shannon spends a lot of her time promoting horse advocacy issues and works to promote public awareness about the many state and national slaughter bills currently in existence.

……" A lot of people do not know what is happening to our horses. We must keep pressure on our government to change this and unite in numbers to make a change. These all wild and domestic and healthy horses going off to be on someone's plate. "

Many states including Tennessee, Missouri, are lobbying to pass legislation in order to re-open horse slaughter plants for human consumption.

2010 YTD SLAUGHTER

Mexico: 12,919
Canada: 12,922
Japan: 4
total 21,776

Another Happy Ending- Lucky fellow saved!!!

God Bless Horses- Lasting Lessons From The Three Amigos

2010-04-12T12:40:00.017-05:00

How is it possible for one person to have so much love and respect for horses while others sometimes seem to have so little? The contrast is amazing. I don't understand how any person who's ever really bonded with a horse can't love them immensely? It's frightening the contrast from person to person when it comes to emotion or lack there of. To have this overabundance of love and compassion for horses that I've never even met, is somewhat of a blessing and a curse.

For those of us who have this capacity, well, we feel it. We feel the heartache of knowing that we can't help every one. We realize we can't help eliminate all suffering despite our best efforts. There will always be those that we can't help. We will be criticized for our "foolishness" and desire to do something our hearts lead us to do. We'll be called "silly" and "irrational." We'll be told we don't know what we're talking about, despite the fact that many of our desires to help were fueled from personal experiences and first-hand knowledge- perhaps even failures and tragedy? Of suffering that would be so painful that most would have turned away from? Alas, we continue. We march on to spread the knowledge that we have acquired to others. In hopes to inspire that each and every one of us can make a difference if we are at least willing to face a challenge before us of horse overpopulation.

Take caution though, because once you are willing to honestly face this challenge, it may not let you go-ever, or at least until it's done with you. It won't let you walk away because even if you do, it will come back to you time and again, over days, over weeks, over months, over years, over decades. You won't be able to hide from it. It will find you.

This is my personal ghost when it comes to horses. For my love of them is both a blessing and a curse. They were indeed, my first friends in life. My mom used to take me with her to the barn when I was just a baby, and place me in her old mare's feed bin while she groomed her. I don't remember this far back, but it's subconsciously engrained in my heart. My heart remembers dear sweet old trusting Suzy, and it will never let me forget one of my very first most loyal teacher's and friend's. I have the photos and the faint memories of her along with the others as a youngster spending precious time with my mom and her horses at the barn. My "formative" horse years. The years that shaped my horse "obsession."

For me there is no greater happiness than comes from being at my special place, my heaven on earth... the farm I'm blessed to be a part of where I board my horse "treasures." Yesterday, while riding with my sister and a friend out in the field, I saw what to me is truly heaven and earth, and it made me stop and give thanks for the blessings in my life and for the chance to be part of it! How special it is to even recognize the value of this all!

.....Off in the distance of the field we were all riding in, were the "Three Amigos" as I call them. Wandering into their pond and enjoying the peace and perfection of the beautiful, mild spring day. Let me further describe these "Three Amigos" to paint an accurate picture:

Amigo Number 1- Popeye.
Popeye is an old thirty something horse year old horse. He is a rescue horse, that a good Samaritan at our barn saved from certain death. This sweet soul had for years been a school horses teaching many students how to ride. His time before that is a mystery. Popeye had been used as a horse at a "church" camp in the Memphis area. For whatever reason, he'd been deemed useless, and was therefore locked in a stall without adequate food and was starved. A good Samaritan found out that he was going to be shot soon and discarded. She was able to arrange a safe-haven for him at our farm, and a second shot (no pun intended) at life-lucky soul! He came to us with perfectly shod feet- the irony despite his emaciated condition! He had a terrible open saddle sore on his withers. But this old soldier had one of the kindest, most gentle eyes I've ever seen in a horse. If only I could read his eyes and see the history that has been his life. He is a wise one, and has seen the world.

With love and TLC, Popeye blossomed. Within 90 days this guy shed his cacoon and emerged into the buxom beauty and regal old gent that is his true spirit. This horse with his lope ears, his droopy lip, his quiet way sneaks into your heart quickly and claims it! It's impossible not to love such a gentle, wise spirit. Even despite the hell he endured, he still loves his humans and trusts us. It brings me peace to know that he will never again endure the betrayal of foolish humans who were too limited to see the value in this awe-inspiring creature. He is one of the true triumphs of my life. His success can't even begin to be measured in my heart by trophies, ribbons,triumphs or glory. I am so blessed to have found the true meaning of what horses are to me in my life while still in my "youth" ...I've gotta few before I hit "middle age!"

Popeye's "rebirth" and his peace near what is surely coming to the end of his days, is a happiness I can't express in words! For I've known others dear to my heart who've been cheated too early from such happiness. In their memory, I can cherish dear sweet old "Pops" as I call him so fondly. And, don't be fooled by this guy either. He's still got lots of pep in his step! As is evident anytime one of us jump on him for a "relaxing" trail ride....he quickly reminds us with a playful- granted not so intimidating buck, or a sneaky attempt to turn and head back to the barn... that his "domain" is freedom to roam in his fields....because he's earned that right! He does still enjoy a quick hack and continues his legacy of teaching new students from time to time..... to think of the number of riders over the years this guy has started..... I wonder?

But Pops is not the only one..... he is the "ring-leader." Along with Pop's is his harem of distinguished ladies.... Copper- another near thirty something grand dame, and Triscuit, who knows her age, but it's in the same range.

Amigo #2-Triscuit:
This little pony is scarily smart.... a genius. I swear she knows the entire English language. She stares at me like she can see into my very soul. Like she knows more about me than I do, and then she toys with me and plays her games. She is truly a "wild horse" at heart, but somewhere over her years got tamed or "tricked" into becoming a domesticated pony and beloved family pet. She came to our farm when her owner who'd had her for years passed away. No doubt, Triscuit had bonded with her former owner, and probably only fully loved and trusted her. She has "learned" to trust us and accept us as she lives out the rest of her days. We treat this old lady, who looks more like a billy goat than a pony certain months, like the queen of Sheeba. I'm sure her former owner is looking down upon her blissful life and smiling. Triscuit has a way of just appearing out of thin air- she's like a ghost!

Amigo #3- Copper:
Copper is an old gaited mare that absolutely adores human attention of any kind. She has had kind owners and a blessed life and completely trusts all humans. She is a sweet soul, not quite so smart as Triscuit or Pops, but nonetheless, a sweet- hearted gem and happy. She loves her Triscuit and her Triscuit is lost without her. They both love their Pops, who "tolerates" their company. She's shed off her woolly mammoth coat and has the most beautiful shine and full-bodied figure for a gal of her age.

The "Three" Amigos have earned the special "Old Geezer" distinction of being able to freely wander the farm. They don't like being treated like the rest of the horses and placed within their pasture....that's no fun. There they are low-down in the pecking order. But, when they get to roam the farm, "they reign supreme!"I know it makes them feel special. They never stray very far from the barn. They have their "usual" pasture grazing routine.

As I was riding with my sister and friend yesterday and say them wandering into the pond in the field. As I watched them happily wandering at will "free" as domestic horses can be in their "heaven" on earth it warmed my heart. For I knew these sweet souls matter! These sweet, dear, gentle, souls and the respect, love, and honor we have shown them have brought me as close to the hand of God that I will ever be able to find in this life on earth! I knew yesterday watching them, that this vision and my seeing pure bliss and dignity- it was God's way of smiling down from heaven yesterday on earth. It was God's way of showing me in life the motivation to keep moving forward and learning the lessons he has in store for me. Isn't it wondrous, how such a simple thing, a simple sight of three happy old horses, can have so much honesty, truth, goodness and greatness....how it can have so much power and strength!

This is a sight that rang out and touched my heart and soul in such a marvelous way, that I wanted to share it on my blog with you. I hope it too rings a bell in your heart and makes you smile. Horses teach us to look beyond the obvious in life and find real and lasting value. They are in themselves a miracle!

Some Thoughts From an Emotional Horse-Crazy Girl on Horse Slaughter

2010-04-06T12:40:00.008-05:00

It's no surprise if you keep up with this blog, or frequent this blog's facebook page, that I'm an anti-slaughter advocate. This is an emotional issue. I don't think "emotion" for those either anti or pro-slaughter in anyway devalues this issue however. The one argument, that will always get my goat, and get me fired up about this, is when people go on the attack and devalue this issue as an unimportant "non-issue" because of their opinion that it is "overly emotional"

My counter to this is: Aren't all issues that are important emotional? Without emotion, an issue has little chance of debate, of publicity, of improvement, and change for the better? So I say- bring on the emotion! I relish it! I think "emotion" is the fuel behind change, and I think that it's this "emotion" that will be the key to making improvements when it comes to horse slaughter and horse abuse in the United States!

Having said this, the paradox of "emotion" is that what's imperative for progress is reaction to emotion. This is the part we can all work on- myself included! I strive to remain respectful, always, of others opinions. I strive to remain open-minded to the points others make. I don't always succeed- that for sure!!! I'm a work in progress in regards to this!

What I've realized, comes from my upbringing and some great advice from the writer Seth Godin in his book "Tribes" ( highly recommend this btw)

" Reacting is intuitive, instinctive, and usually dangerous. Response is reaction with thoughtful action and a better alternative to reaction. But initiating is what leaders do. Initiative makes change happen." .....

"Initiative is recognizing what others ignore and jumping on it. It is causing change that others have to react to."

How this applies to the horse slaughter issue? Well, I've reacted, I've responded, and I've taken initiative. I've watched others do it as well. I can tell you from experience, I know instantly when what I've done is react....it always leaves a pit in my stomach. I sincerely apologize when I've done so....and for future reactions. I try, to always remember to alternatively respond or initiate. Easier said than done!

Both sides pro-slaughter and anti-slaughter- have excellent points. Both have excellent supporting documentation and research to back up claims as to why one is better than another. My questions are simply these:

Have we really found "the solution" in slaughter?
Is this really the only avenue possible for "unwanted" horses?
Are we too quick to accept dare I say, "the easy way out?"

I've seen slaughter used as a "out of sight out of mind" solution to horses by owners who simply don't want to face the following "realities" of horse ownership.

The fact that if you have a horse, that horse will get old.
If you have a horse, being responsible means being capable of affording to feed, and care for that horse.

If you can no longer do so....my opinion, is that "responsible" owners should not seek an easy way out, and send a horse away.... to an auction in idealistic hopes that someone there will save "old red"....will want "old red" instead of another more viable horse at the sale. "Because I don't want to deal with the emotional decision of euthanizing "old red...I'll let someone else make the decision that I am too weak to make....We've all done this, we've all avoided something we didn't want to deal with.... But this, this is too important to "pass off" and to avoid.

If you have a horse, can't afford that horse, please, please, let someone know. Try first to find a home, if a home can't be found, please pursue humane euthanasia. If you can't afford it, tell someone! Tell me. I will do my best to help you! I know there are others out there like me too! There is more shame in the alternative! Everyone has friends that would be willing to spare a few pennies to help out!!! Please don't disrespect "old red" by an easy way out sending to auction. This is not a chance. This is a death sentence, and a long, cruel one at that for an old soldier that deserves the respect of a humane and dignified end.

The thought of all the "Old Reds" out there who have been discarded....whose owners or unfortunate circumstances have led to "The easy way out......" breaks my heart. (I'm emotional) There are more options aside from sending to slaughter if you can't afford, or starvation and neglect.....there is humane euthanasia. This is affordable....saying you "can't afford" it is an excuse if you haven't asked for help. Of course, this is my opinion, but I just can't understand those unwilling to "feel" and "face" this emotion at the expense of Old Red suffering! Old horses, young horses, teenage horses....they all deserve our help in doing everything we can to cast aside suffering....in all forms: neglect, slaughter, abuse....etc.

Again, is slaughter as it stands now the end all be all answer? Are there not reform opportunities that could be researched and implemented and regulated to help abolish suffering? We can create a nuclear weapon, why can't we address such basic ethical questions? Should we not consider addressing over breeding issues? Consider not promoting such through tax breaks? Can't humane transport methods, humane euthanasia alternatives and humane slaughter methods be a goal? For every it's economically unfeasible, there will be a why it is economically feasible argument. Let's stop the Catch- 22 and actually do the "crazy" thing....lets base it on one fundamental human trait- emotion. Does not our "emotion" dictate that we do our very best as "emotional" living human beings to seek answers to limit pain and suffering?

Well, you already know my "crazy" "radical" "silly horse-loving girl" opinion. I'm not afraid to look at the emotional issues and face them. I'm not afraid to be wrong. Being wrong leads to progress, leads to change. Leads to reform. If I'm wrong so be it, but at least I'll stir the thinking of a few who are far wiser than myself. Who may have a better "end all be all solution" than slaughter and create change and reform for the creatures I thank God everyday for bringing into my life. For Horses. I will continue to pay it forward for horses.... they've already done so for me.

I write this for one purpose. To make you think. Don't tell me you agree or disagree with me. This isn't about me. Get out there and do something for horses. Follow your gutt, don't be afraid to be wrong, don't be afraid of criticism. Just do it. "It" can be extraordinary!

AHP Horse Industry Survey Results Released

2010-03-04T16:05:00.002-06:00

The American Horse Publications just released the largest electronic survey ever conducted to measure horse industry trends in the United States. Over 11,171 people involved with horses participated.

Part of the survey measured present, past, and future trends. Good news is that horse owner participants indicated they own roughly the same number of horses today as they did several years ago- which frankly surprised me in this economy! The poll indicated owners plan on owning the same amount in 2011 too.

To quote from theHorse.com article AHPEquine Industry Survey Results Released:

...."This survey shows some good news: Even during current times with a struggling economy, a majority of respondents expect to be able to continue participating in the equine industry at the same level that they are now; some even expect to increase their levels of participation over the next few years," Stowe said. "Moreover, many horse handlers will make sacrifices in other areas of their lives to continue their involvement in the equine industry. But even though the majority of respondents will be able to continue their equine-related activities, this does not diminish the potential hardship faced by those individuals, organizations, and regions which expect to experience decreases in participation. Respondents are also clear that the welfare of the horse is of the utmost importance as individuals and policy makers make decisions regarding the future of the equine industry."

Read more about the survey results here.

SOURCE: theHorse.com article AHPEquine Industry Survey Results Released:

Horsin Around with Social Media

2010-02-27T08:48:00.010-06:00

Social Media is the craze these days as it should be because it works! It has leveled the playing field for "guru's" who have learned how to use it effectively-I love it! But, there are definitely some "Do's and Dont's" and for myself....well, I've learned the "Dont's" the hard way! But, that's okay; the best lessons are learned through mistakes, right?

Because I'm almost as fascinated by social media as I am by horses......key word here being "almost"..... I decided to share some "tips" that I recently shared on a LinkedIn group forum about what is working for me when it comes to using Social Media to spread my love of horses around. So here you go:

....What is working for me is utilizing social media platforms to promote my blog. As well as keeping in mind that there is a fine line between marketing and annoying people! I first created my blog years ago in order to write about horses for "fun"....but it's evolving into more than that now. I'm developing a voice about not only "celebrating horses" but also a way to promote responsible horse ownership, and horse welfare issues my area- Memphis, TN- and beyond!

My strategy is incorporating every medium I can around my blog...my facebook page, my twitter account, websites, other sites I contribute articles for.... this all creates credibility for me (I hope) and generates interest. Good, fresh, relevant, content in a variety of forms-videos, links, questions, photos, statements, etc. is important! As well as keeping it positive, responsive, and inviting...You have to find a way to "connect" to your audience. If you can do this effectively, your audience becomes "interactive." This is a feat that takes time and patience and can't be rushed or pushed!

I'm having fun using social media to "connect" with "like-minded" people about horses. It's really cool, and I'm having fun watching it evolve.... into what next, who knows? But the key is that by taking time to develop good content, and by using a strategy of cross posting using a variety of social media tools, in addition to using common sense, I actually have a following! And, what's better, I think my efforts are starting to raise awareness and hopefully help some horses and people in the process! Pretty cool

Social Media is good stuff when used wisely. Learning to use it wisely, is somewhat of an art-form and tricky. For me, the hardest platform to "grasp" has been twitter.... Word to the wise, don't be tempted to take the easy way out with twitter! If you use it like a spammer, the only followers you will have are fellow spammers ;) Whatever you use, be genuine!

Maybe I should start offering my own social media seminars? Who knew I "knew" all this?

If you would like to learn more about using Social Media for your horse business, here's a free webinar being offered by Equestrian Professional, March 15th. Check it out:

Smart Social Media Strategies for Horse Professionals & Horse Business Owners

Horse Hero, Alex Brown: Read this "Interview with a Racehorse Rescuer.”

2010-02-24T09:56:00.017-06:00

I've decided to periodically spotlight"Horse Hero's" on my blog- or those horse professionals that are helping to improve the horse industry! Those who are compelled to give back to the commodity that has given them a livelihood! Those who recognize that they can use their status and reputation to effect positive change for horses. Those who aren't afraid to speak up, and use their voice to help join the many voices together that want to make a difference to improve this industry.

Here is an excellent example of one such impressive horse professional that is truly, “paying it forward” for horses and my new horse hero! Ever heard of Alex Brown? He’s a well-known racing professional and “academic guru” who has taught Internet Marketing courses for 10 years at University of Delaware, and worked at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. He’s making a difference in welfare issues for racehorses, and he knows how to effectively use social media to help this cause!

Click here to read an interview with Alex, and for those of you social media manics, like me…..

Be sure to watch this video

to learn more about how social media is helping to connect like-minded people, and spread awareness about horse welfare issues!

Source: The Equinest

Dark Horse Rescue Now In Memphis Area

2010-02-17T12:18:00.004-06:00

For anyone whose ever taken a glimpse into this blog, you've already discovered that I'm a bit "OCD" when it comes to posting about anything to do with "helping horses." I feel compelled to do what I can to "Pay it Forward" and use my "Voice" to speak up for horses who can't speak.... even though us Memphis horse-folk already know horses definitely DO SPEAK.... just not verbally ;)

There's a new horse rescue in town.... Dark Horse Rescue. And, I personally think this group will be able to give Memphis area horses a louder voice! Click on Memphis Horses Examiner to read all about them and how you can help if you have likewise been bitten by the "Pay it Forward for Horses bug."

Hint, Hint..... this is a highly contagious "bug" that I'm hoping you'll catch too!

Gullet Channel Width and Saddle Fit Part 3

2010-02-03T16:25:00.003-06:00

Watch the third video in the series to learn more about determining the proper channel and gullet width for your horse. Wow, I've learned so much from these easy to understand videos. I'm scared to now apply to my own saddles though~ yikes!

Watch Gullet and Channel Width Video Here

Wither Clearance and Saddle Fit

2010-02-02T11:38:00.003-06:00

Here's video number 2 on Proper Saddle fit from expert saddle maker, Jochen Schleese re: Wither Clearance. Whew, I learned something new from this- very informative!

Watch YouTube Video here

Visit this site for more: http://www.schleese.com/

Fitting a Saddle for Balance

2010-01-22T11:58:00.004-06:00

Proper saddle fit is crucial for both horse and rider to achieve balance and comfort. But achieving this, is often confusing. Want to make sure that your saddle achieves a proper "balanced" fit for you and your horse. Watch this excellent, quick video from an expert saddlemaker to learn more!

Watch Video

My Tribute to Old Friends

2010-01-17T13:28:00.004-06:00

A touching post on Rerun's facebook page today, made me stop and think about the many, special animal's and horses that have touched my soul and influenced my life. Thanks to that post, I took a few minutes to reflect and say a special prayer for them all.... here it is:

God bless my animal friend’s that have touched my life & taught me invaluable lessons that I can pass on to others. Thank you for making me a better human being. I honor your memory by working to spread these lessons to others. In doing so, you live every day! You inspire me to increase awareness about the importance and joys of responsible ownership. Thank you for being my guardian angels and teachers both here on earth and in heaven. Bless you for stirring my soul and showing me the meaning of true, unconditional love!

Here’s a tribute to one such dear friend who “Doctored my Soul” http://bit.ly/66NxoP

Hunter/Jumper Equitation Position Woes. Are You Guilty Too?

2010-01-11T11:55:00.014-06:00

Here's a great article from Jane Savoie's awesome site and blog that gives some fantastic riding advice-especially for hunter/jumper riders! Learning to sit in the middle of your horse, relax, and stop riding off that knee opens up a whole new world of comfortable riding for you and your horse! It only took me 20...okay fine... 30 something years to get this - it really works.

I grew up riding in the hunter/jumper discipline and somewhere along the way got really "confused" with proper seat position and mistakenly believed good equitation was riding in a forward seat with bum out of the saddle, really short stirrups, knees completely closed to the saddle, with that "archy-archy" back....for us gals.... otherwise known as the "Boobs & Bum" out position. Hunter/Jumper ladies have all heard it! Although, admittedly, some of us lacking "natural endowment" (myself sadly included here) find this position more challenging so to speak than more "gifted' gals :)..... Hum, now that I'm older, and slightly wiser, wonder who came up with this notion of "equitation?" No offense, but the ladies, typically outweigh the gentlemen when it comes to equitation classes don't they? I'm suddenly wondering if this "Hugh Heffnerish" style of uncomfortable riding wasn't by chance promoted by men for a little more...shall we say, viewing pleasure? Okay, I'm getting really off topic so best to ponder this one for another day.

My point is that within the past couple of years, after taking some centered riding clinics and working with an awesome trainer specializing in Dressage- Judy Fendley- the light bulb finally switched on for me! Now that's not to say that I don't still get chastised by Judy from time to time for being one of those "hunter riders" (which by the way, I will always be) but, I've finally realized, especially working with young horses how much more effective it is to ride in the center of my horse with a relaxed seat and leg position. I've tested this out on my "greenie".... ridden with hiked up short-short stirrups forcing me to ride off my knee, making my guy choppy, short-strided, and generally "pissy." Why? Because I'm pinching the crap out of him with my knee and completely off balance. If he could yell..... "OUCH! Get those damn knees out of my side WOMAN!" he would!

I used to think I was doing the horses I was riding a favor by hiking my stirrups up because I was "getting off of their back." But lightness in seat is not about standing up off your horse's back by riding off your knees! Getting the bum off your horse's back at the expense of jabbing their sides continuously with your knees isn't accomplishing much, certainly not balance! This position always made me top heavy too throwing my horses onto the forehand and balancing on my hands. By lengthening my stirrups and relaxing my leg and seat riding becomes more comfortable for me and my boy. He suddenly relaxes with me, and his stride opens right up. He moves willingly and happily! After the ride, my knees don't "snap, crackle, and pop" or cramp up like they used too and my horse isn't stiff.

Too bad I didn't get this with my first horse of seventeen years! All that knee pinching and seesawing in his mouth thinking I was achieving "collection"- oops! Sorry Sammy! You were a great sport and no wonder you had so many bucking, temper tantrum fits with me!

If you too can relate, this article and the videos are a must watch/read!

SOURCE: Jane Savoie

Horses Thriving In Middle TN Horse Neglect Case

2009-12-31T11:40:00.003-06:00

Initial Day of Rescue:

Horses Rescued from Cannon County, Tenn., Farm Thriving at Emergency Shelter

BRADYVILLE, Tenn. — Eighty-four horses rescued Tuesday by The Humane Society of the United States and the Cannon County Sheriff's Department are gaining strength at the Tennessee State Fairgrounds.

"The Humane Society of the United States is extremely grateful for the tremendous outpouring of support that has allowed us to successfully rescue and care for these 84 neglected horses," said Leighann McCollum, Tennessee state director for The HSUS. "We are especially appreciative of the Tennessee State Fairgrounds and Tractor Supply Company, which has generously donated a $5,000 gift certificate to The HSUS to purchase supplies needed to care for the horses."

During a press conference Tuesday morning, Rep. Janis Sontany announced that she plans to draft a bill designed to include starvation of any animal in the felony penalty statutes. Currently only dogs and cats are included in the felony statute for starvation.

Along with the horses, The HSUS led the rescue of eight dogs, two goats and 14 chickens from the property — animals who have since been transferred to rescue groups.

Following massive amounts of local interest in this rescue, The HSUS has posted the following Q&A on their Web site to provide critical information to those interested in assisting with this rescue.

Q: Do you need donations?

A: The outpouring of support we have received from the community during this rescue has been incredible. We are grateful for this generosity. We have nearly run out of storage space and are in need of only a few specific items. At this time monetary donations are preferred, as costs for veterinary and farrier services for these horses will be extremely high. Please click here to donate directly to this rescue mission.

Q: Is there a need for volunteers?

A: Because of the outpouring of support we have received, it is necessary for us to schedule volunteer assistance. If you would like to volunteer or are a veterinarian, veterinary technician or farrier and would like to assist with the care of these horses, please email your contact information and availability to tnhorserescue@humanesociety.org.

Q: Are the horses available to be adopted?

A: Because of their poor health, the horses will need to gain strength at the emergency shelter before they are placed with rescue groups. We will place the horses with several responsible, appropriate equine rescue groups. These groups will then adopt the horses out to members of the public. We will make a list of rescue groups taking in horses available as soon as it is finalized. If you are interested in being added to the waiting list of interested adopters, please email: tnhorserescue@humanesociety.org.

Q: Which agencies, corporations, etc. have helped make this effort possible?

A: This rescue would not have been possible without the generous local support we have received. As the lead animal welfare agency in this rescue The HSUS asked several groups for assistance. We would especially like to thank the Cannon County Sheriff's Department, Tractor Supply Company, the Tennessee State Fairgrounds, Whole Foods, Franklin Equine Hospital, Tennessee Equine Hospital, Equine Veterinary Service, Volunteer Equine Advocates, United Animal Nations, A Place to Bark, Purina, Farmer's Co-Op, PF Chang's, Garden Café, The Yellow Porch, Blackstone and Music City Horseshoer's Association.

SOURCE: HumaneSociety.org

Favorite Horse Quotes

2009-12-03T11:22:00.002-06:00

Not surprisingly perhaps, I'm a sucker for a good quote. When its about horses....you guessed it, I'm gonna love it. I recently came across some great horse quotes that I wanted to share with my horse friends. I think you'll appreciate them...For some horse fun with words, click on this article I wrote for the Memphis Horse Examiner and please share your quotes too by leaving a comment!

Cold Weather Tips for Horses

2009-12-02T13:33:00.000-06:00

Brrrr...... its cold, dark, and rainy= nasty weather! It's cold now, but it'll be colder soon! Seems like a perfect day for some cold weather tips for horses. Click here for some practical ideas about how to keep your "Cool" horse toasty this winter- or at least comfortable!

Memphis Horses Examiner

I Got to Ride Zenyatta

2009-11-12T19:33:00.003-06:00

So, I just got to ride Zenyatta! Didn't you know I'm her new exercise jockey? Even though I've never, ever, ridden a racehorse on the track, I have been bestowed this honor. Didn't even break a sweat either- was going too fast! Now this is riding! Okay, okay don't be jealous because I got to ride the coolest horse of our time at FULL THROTTLE, because you can too :) How? Well, watch this video made by her exercise rider and get ready for the thrill of your life!!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hv49V2RzgHw

Zenyatta is a SuperStar

2009-11-11T08:56:00.005-06:00

If you missed the Breeder's cup or want to see it again, you must watch this unbelievable race! Zenyatta is still an undefeated Super horse-You go girl!

Watch race here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ud_XPH6Eix4

Time To Take It All Off?

2009-11-04T11:04:00.006-06:00

Finally, cooler riding weather! I love it and my horse does too! But, my trusty steed has turned into a woolly mammoth overnight it seems! I can't ride without him sweating like crazy. It takes me FOREVER to cool him out. Sound familiar?

Read my article from the Memphis Horse Examiner for some tips on whether to "take it all off or not."

Photo Source: www.NewRider.com

If Horses were Software

2009-10-30T15:16:00.004-05:00

My new favorite facebook page is Knot-A-Tail- look them up on facebook and join, because the posts are hilarious! Here's another post from them that made me chuckle out load! Being a tech support professional, I find this absolutely hillarious. Enjoy and be sure to check out Knot-A-Tail on facebook! Thanks Knot-A-Tail!

If Horses Were Software.... A Letter to Tech Support

Dear Tech Support,

Recently I purchased and installed Horse 1.0. I soon noticed that this program appears to have numerous glitches. For instance, every time my computer boots up, I have to run Feed 5.3 and Water 7.1. Many times I've been in the middle of writing an important document, and a window will flash telling me to run Clean Stall 2.0.

This program also contained applications I did not wish to install, such as Manure 8.5, however they auto-installed with Horse 1.0. Applications such as Vacation 2.7 and Free Time 10.1 can no longer run, crashing whenever selected. Possibly the worst is that Horse 1.0 has attached itself to programs like Finance Manager and MS Money, with folders added such as "Monthly Shoeing" and "Winter Blanket".

Periodically, I'll get a reminder telling me to send a check to the manufacturer of Horse 1.0 for the aforementioned items. I have tried to uninstall Horse 1.0 numerous times, but when I try to run the uninstall program, I get warning messages telling me that a deadly virus known as "Withdrawal" will infect my system. Please Help!!!!!

THE REPLY:

Dear User,

Your complaint is not unusual. A common misconception among users is that Horse 1.0 is a mere "utilities and entertainment program." It is not - it is an OPERATING SYSTEM and is designed by its' creator to run everything! A warning will soon be imprinted on the box.

Since you have already installed Horse 1.0, here are a few tips on how to make it run better. If you are annoyed by the applications Feed 5.3 and Water 7.1, you may run C: \HIRE HELP, however this will cause another folder to be added to financial applications, labeled "Staff". Failure to send payment to "Staff" will result in Feed 5.3 and Water 7.1 being run again on startup. A note of caution: NOT booting up your computer for several days isn't the solution to avoiding Feed 5.3 and Water 7.1.

You will find that, when you boot up your computer again, a nasty virus called "Colic 4.2" will have attached itself to important documents and the only way to rid your computer of Colic 4.2 is by purchasing and installing "Vet 10.1", which we admit is extremely expensive, but crucial. Otherwise, Colic 4.2 will cause irreversible damage to the operating system.

Finally, it is important that you run C:\Carrots and C:\Scratch Ears on a fairly regular basis to keep the application running smoothly. If you have any more questions, please call our toll free number.

Sincerely, Tech Support

SOURCE: Knot-A-Tail

Important Traits for Riding Instructors

2009-10-24T15:13:00.003-05:00

A forum I'm a member of posted the following question recently and here's how I responded: What Traits are important for Good Riding Instructors?

My Comment:
Since every student learns differently, what makes a good riding instructor is solid horse behavior knowledge, enthusiasm, patience, good communication skills, adaptability, and someone who genuinely "cares" about their student's and horses and wants to see both reach their goals. A riding instructor or any teacher or any employee for that matter, will be successful if they genuinely "like" their job. If this is the case, their enthusiasm will be infectious and motivate their students. A good riding instructor is not the "same" instructor with every student. They are adaptable, and can recognize each individual's learning style and adapt their teaching to this. They will have different instructions and exercises for each student/horse combination based on their ability to recognize the skills each needs to work on. Some student's need an assertive, no-nonsense teaching style, some need reassurance, some need praise, some need detailed explanation, some need respect and trust....and usually, student's will need a combination of all of these traits. It's up to the instructor to have the insight and the ability to "read" their student's psyche and figure out what teaching tips to pull out of the hat and when!

In order do this, I believe an instructor has to have lots of personal riding experience with many different levels of horses to draw from. I think it's important for instructor's to be "active riders" as well in order to keep their skills sharp and remain "relatable" to their students' riding experiences. It's also good for instructor's to ride the horses they teach riders on. Sometimes this alone will help give them better insight into why a student may be experiencing difficulty that may be tricky to spot on the ground. It's also helpful for students to "see" their instructor in action explaining the lessons they are trying to teach. Sometimes when lessons aren't really "sinking" in, watching instruction in action does!

What traits are important to you in a Riding Instructor? Do you have one in the Memphis area you'd like to give "snaps" to. Leave a comment mentioning them and why they are a good instructor.

Horse Stimulus package

2009-10-22T15:10:00.005-05:00

Here's a post from a Facebook connection that gave me a good laugh, so I wanted to share it on my blog~ enjoy! Ashlee

"Why if every American owned a horse, we would not be in the economic mess that we are in.

Everyone needs a horse

Mr. President, it has come to my attention that you're having some
challenges with the economy.

If I understand things correctly, we're in a
recession, consumer confidence and spending is down, credit is tight,
investors are spooked, we need renewable energy, and health care costs are
through the roof.

Trillions of dollars, not to mention our future, are at
stake. Mr. President, I'm just a regular citizen, but I think I have a
solution.

My proposal may not make sense to you at first, but let me give you a little
background.

First of all, horses in the U.S. are a multi-billion dollar ndustry, and that's just at my house. I suggest you have your economic advisers do a little research on the spending around horse ownership.

You'd be surprised, Mr. President.

Start by visiting the tack and clothing retailers like State Line or Dover . Look at the variety of goods available there. Now take into account that every horse owner, especially if it's a woman, is buying not just one or two, but tons of these items.. Believe me.

So my thinking is that if you give every American a horse, starting when they reach the horse-receptive age of 10, you're going to do two things: boost consumer confidence and boost spending. Immediately.

Horses make us feel good, and once Americans all own horses (at the government's expense, of course), they will all logically fall into the pattern that every horse owner succumbs to: accessorizing.

For starters, we need horse-care implements like buckets and muck rakes, hoof picks and curry combs. And we need at least basic tack, halter, lead line, saddle, saddle pad, bridle and bit.

But then the fun begins.

*Zebra print** leg wraps
Neon bright fly masks.

An assortment of sheets and blankets for all seasons; you've got your cooler, your lightweight blanket, your medium blanket, your heavy blanket. Then there's your stable sheet and your pasture sheet.

Also your hoodie, and tail wrap items.*

And that's just the clothing for the horse. Don't get me started on the clothing for the rider, even if he or she doesn't show.

Since most Americans don't have a basic riding wardrobe, the stores would be swamped for jeans, boots, breeches, t-shirts, dozens of pairs of cute boot socks, helmets, and SO MUCH MORE!!

Tell the retailers to get ready. It'll be Christmas all year long!

Now let's talk about support industries.

In addition to the usual veterinarian and farrier expenditures, people also give their horses chiropractic, massage and acupuncture, not to mention buying more beauty
products for their horses than they do for themselves.

All those professions and industries will benefit. And of course there will be a big spike in hay and grain demand, so the farmers will be happy too.

Never underestimate the power of Manure
You see, that's the secret to jump-starting consumer spending through my stimulus package. People will spend money on their horses when they won't spend money on anything else.

But, your advisers might say, there's a catch.

Aren't we paying the price, in global warming, of the large number of livestock animals we currently have?

They produce all that methane!

Ah, Mr. President, here's the real beauty of this idea. When you introduce the Methane-Assisted Natural Unrefined Renewable Energy plan (M.A.N.U.R.E.),.

You'll be a hero for coming up with an alternative, renewable, home-grown source of clean energy.

Methane-Assisted Natural Unrefined Renewable Energy plan (M.A.N.U.R.E.),
Leave it to the horses to save the economy

Just challenge the energy gurus to come up with a methane gas collection system that can harness all the natural resources produced by all those horses to power our cities. Talk about shovel ready-projects:

And you keep stressing how we need new industries for investment; well, under the M.A.N.U.R.E. plan you can sell Petroleum Offset Opportunity units to investors.

By buying these units, investors can help us gradually convert from a petroleum-based economy to one based on horse P.O.O.

Health care costs will go down, too, as everyone cares for their horses. You can give tax credits based on the amount of time people spend working, riding and hanging out with their horses, which will automatically make them healthier. (Don't tell the docs, but most horse owners already get their own basic health care from their vet.)

One more thing: everyone is annoyed by these corporate CEOs and their big bonuses in a down economy. So give the executives, say, one horse for every $100,000 of bonus money they've received. Those bonuses will be plowed back into the economy in no time.

Finally, because you, Mrs. O, and the girls are such role models, you can encourage us all by getting a pony for Sasha and Malia. It will teach them responsibility, help the First Lady plow the garden, and as a bonus: free fertilizer for the Rose Garden.

If you don't believe me that horse ownership stimulates spending, go ahead,
Mr. President. Buy that pony for your girls. You'll see.

M.A.N.U.R.E. fits the bill!
Save the economy with a load of Horse Shi___

Health care costs will go down, too, as everyone cares for their horses. You can give tax credits based on the amount of time people spend working, riding and hanging out with their horses, which will automatically make them healthier.

(Don't tell the docs, but most horse owners already get their own basic health care from their vet.)

One more thing: everyone is annoyed by these corporate CEOs and their big bonuses in a down economy. So give the executives, say, one horse for every $100,000 of bonus money they've received. Those bonuses will be plowed back into the economy in no time.

Finally, because you, Mrs. O, and the girls are such role models, you can encourage us all by getting a pony for Sasha and Malia. It will teach them responsibility, help the First Lady plow the garden, and as a bonus:

free fertilizer for the Rose Garden.

If you don't believe me that horse ownership stimulates spending, go ahead, Mr. President.

Buy that pony for your girls. You'll see."Originally Posted by Knot-A-Tail

SOURCE: Knot-A-Tail

Tips for Successfully Catching Horses

2009-10-19T22:30:00.007-05:00

Wow, natural horsemanship sure has come along way. It sure does seem like there are more horse behavior tips available these days then when I was starting out with horses. I can remember being a kid and being told to go catch horses notorious for being "hard to catch" and the advice always being- "take some food out, that one's hard to catch." Silly me used to march right up to the notorious "bad" one, determined I was going to catch that horse. Yeah, well, where do you think that bossy attitude got me? You bet ya, with me chasing the horse/pony around the pasture while the horses laughed at me- I'm still convinced horses laugh at us....horses have a sense of humor too... but that's for another day another post.

Now that I'm older, wiser, and have been exposed to more of this natural horsemanship "mambo jambo," I "get it" This stuff really works. Kid's these days being started off learning horse behavior abc's will be really awesome horseman/women when they're twenty something like me.....okay busted, thirty something :)

Read this awesome very practical article compliments of America's Horse Daily about how to read the "signs" horses give you when approaching them for a successful "catch" every time....without having to run around the pasture giving the horses a good laugh the way I used to!

Source: America's Horse Daily

From Memphis Horses- A Blog All About Horses in Memphis & Beyond

Carrige Driving is FUN

2009-10-17T20:21:00.006-05:00

Carriage Driving is FUN! Check this out:

My friends, Nora Land and Joanna Wilburn driving "Berry" in preparation for the Nashoba Carriage Classic. Can you see that big smile on Nora's face? Speaks for itself!

SOURCE: Lauren Pigford- The Commercial Appeal

From Memphis Horses- A Blog All About Horses in Memphis & Beyond

Video Penny Chenery Owner of Secretariat

2009-10-17T13:25:00.004-05:00

Check out this video about the new Secretariat film being made by Disney. Can't wait for this one, will be great! Even though I'm still miffed that my sister's boy, Gage, wasn't one of the horses chosen for the role of Secretariat. That's okay, Gage is still a "Hollywood Hottty" in my eyes!

Secretariat Video

SOURCE: TheHorse.com

From Memphis Horses- A Blog All About Horses in Memphis & Beyond

Fun Fall Memphis Horse Events

2009-10-08T11:25:00.008-05:00

So many opportunities for Fun with Horses this Fall in Memphis! I love Fall because of all the horsey activities available in our local area!

If you're looking for some fun, filled horse activities, take a look at this article I wrote for the Memphis Horses Examiner for all kinds of ideas!

From Memphis Horses- A Blog All About Horses in Memphis & Beyond

Are You Listening To Your Horse?

2009-10-01T14:34:00.003-05:00

True horsemen know their most important lessons in life have come from their best friends- horses of course! Horses teach us to listen, to observe, and patience. Without learning these skills, you won’t be successful with horses. They tell us how to listen to them on a level beyond just the surface and beyond what may seem the obvious. For example, one day while grooming a usually quiet natured, willing, and mild-mannered horse, he was acting quite peculiar from his normal behavior. He would simply not stand still as I brushed on him, squirming side to side, lunging forward on the cross ties. I’d had a busy day at work, was tired, irritable, and his behavior did not help my attitude! I reprimanded him several times for not standing still, until he lifted his back leg and kicked forward with it towards his belly. That was it, “this cantankerous behavior will not be tolerated,” I thought. So I smacked him in frustration, and then looked at him and his wild-eyed expression. Finally, the light-bulb went off with me! He’s got a tummy ache and is “trying” to tell me! I was not listening to him. I felt really badly once I realized he had good reason for his behavior. He was trying to tell me, his “trusted friend” how he was feeling and I was not listening because I was too wrapped up in myself and my busy day to recognize the obvious.

This is an example of horses teaching us to “listen” to “observe” and to “think.” Had I not known the typical behavior of this horse, I probably would not have recognized that this guy was hurting and that is why he was behaving so anxiously. But, I did know this horse, and once I looked beyond the surface, the answer was right in front of me because he was trying to “tell” me what the problem was. I guess he trusted me enough to know I’d eventually “get it” even though I was a bit slow! Point here, slow down and “listen” to your horse! They actually tell you quite a lot if you let them.

From Memphis Horses- A Blog All About Horses in Memphis & Beyond

The "Value" of a Horse

2009-09-22T11:57:00.012-05:00

So can a horse choose a person? Those of us "horsey" folks undoubtedly know the answer is YES! How is it that when we are looking to buy a horse, we innately seem to know when we’ve found “the one?” I believe it’s because we somehow can sense when our horse has “chosen” us.

The bond between horse and human is a very powerful and unique relationship that only those who’ve experienced can truly appreciate and understand. It can, in fact, have a life-changing affect on someone. Many horsemen are familiar with the famous quote by Sir Winston Churchill, “there is something about the outside of a horse that is good for the inside of a man.” Now, my husband and other “non-horsey” folk would add to this, “and bad for the pocketbook” …sound familiar anyone? In their defense, it's hard to understand the value of the horse-human bond without ever experiencing it.

Despite the “expense” of a horse “hobby,” those of us lucky enough to experience this intense bond will become better people because of it. “Deep pockets” become a second thought and easily justified when realizing in the “grand scheme of things” the invaluable life lessons we learn from a horse we’ve grown close to. The value of this special relationship extends well beyond superficial logic. The value of this relationship can change the very soul of a person for the better! Horses have the power to teach us the value of teamwork, discipline, dedication, loyalty, selflessness, trust, work-ethic, pride in accomplishing goals, listening skills, communication skills, patience, respect, conquering fear, and most importantly humility and love!

Out of curiosity, I recently Google’d the value of a horse. What I found amazed me and inspired me to write this. I found the “non-horsey” definition…

” They can help with people riding the horse to get work done. They are also a good way of transportation, also very small ponies can be used as guide horses for the blind they also help with rehabilitating people who have been hurt. They used to help plow land, before they had tractors.” ….

Wow, how limited this is! Horses have so much more value than just what is on the surface. But then again, I guess the reason I’m able to recognize this is because I’ve been “taught” by horses to look beyond the surface. To find value in what others’ would discard as useless. I’ve been lucky enough to experience horse bonds with the type of horses that most wouldn’t give a second thought to and pass off as useless.

What I’ve discovered that I wish to share with others is that truly, it’s the most “useless” horses that can turn out to be the most priceless! The one’s which can have a lasting effect on one’s life and be the motivating force behind success. The inspiration to keep moving forward! The secret to “value” in a horse is the bond between horse and human. If you find a horse who likes you, who chooses you, then that horse will burst his heart and soul for you! This same horse may not be one tenth as talented with another person or rider, but is indeed, a horse of another color with the one he’s chosen!

I’d like to challenge all horse people to take the test. Take a closer look at the “value” of a horse next time you’re in a position to purchase one. Look beyond the surface, and take note of the horse’s reaction to you. Are you being chosen? If you feel this bond, take a chance on a horse that logic would otherwise cause you to walk away from. Give one in need a chance. Don’t walk away simply because one is “older” than you’d like, or is the shaggy, ugly duckling that’s been forgotten and turned out to pasture. Don’t just walk away because perfection is not in front of you. Here’s a secret, one of the most important "values" of a horse is the journey you take with a horse on the quest for perfection! This journey is far more rewarding than taking the “easy” way out and choosing a horse that’s already “perfect” by usual standards.

Now I’ve been riding horses all of my life and I will tell you from my own experience, that sometimes the ugly duckling may very well turn out to be the beautiful swan, and it's value worth far more than you’d ever imagined! I’ve had one such horse in my childhood which forever changed me for the better. I’ve also experienced another in adulthood which again emphasized to me the “value” of a horse bond. Ironically, this horse was a give-away- a handicapped horse, which had only one good eye. A scraggly, older, little guy that no one would have given a second thought to. This little angel, truly “chose” me. I can say without a doubt, that this horse loved me as much as is possible for a horse! He helped heal me when I was ill and showed me the way back to health. He gave me back my excitement and passion for life and for the future! I, in turn, helped “heal” him and bring him back into health and fitness. Due to our bond, he blossomed and he was able to experience the love from a human that he’d so obviously been searching for and craving.

Always aware of his loss of sight in one eye, I truly never noticed this while working with him. Never have I experienced such joy while riding as I did with this little blind-eyed horse! We could go out in the open fields and gallop with both of us enjoying and loving every single minute of it. This little guy truly “Doctored” my soul and will always hold a very special spot in my heart. No, I didn’t show him, I didn’t make money off of him, I didn’t really do anything with him other than enjoy the special time we spent together, I didn’t even own him! But, I did love him, and because of our bond and his “Choosing” me, my life’s focus has been forever changed. I will never forget this bond and its value, and I will be forever grateful for it. So you see, the value of even a give-away, handicapped, scraggly, “over the hill” horse can truly be priceless!

From Memphis Horses- A Blog All About Horses in Memphis & Beyond

Senior Citizen's Rule!!!

2009-09-19T11:45:00.011-05:00

I have a special soft spot for old horses. I've been fortunate in my lifetime to be around many aged horses and my experience with them has been so rewarding and full of joy!

There was a time when "old" may have been a horse in his teens. Now, with advancements in veterinary care, and better horse care knowledge, a horse's prime is his "teens." A horse whom in preteen years may have been "spooky and spunky" mostly due to lack of experience exposure, may be a completely different horse in his 20's.

Aged horses make fantastic teachers for inexperienced riders. They've "been there done that" so to speak, and tend to be more patient and forgiving with beginners. They have "mental maturity" which can make them a pure pleasure to work with. This is not to say they are "dead heads" or "nags!" They can have plenty of pep in the step, but are the trusty steeds riders choose when they want to have "FUN!" For example, I have a very talented and fun young Thoroughbred gelding, whose extremely well-behaved for his age. But, when I want to go out on a leisurely ride, and just have FUN, I go for one of the "old geezers" at our farm! I know, I won't have to focus on a "training ride" and can just focus on riding for joy!

Old horses can learn new tricks too! They often have the demeanor to learn new disciplines, such as carriage driving. They often make excellent therapy horses and their loving, trusting, and quiet nature can have an emotionally healing affect on their subjects. Babysitters they are! Old horses often bestow their wisdom and have a great calming affect on younger, inexperienced horses. They make good role models and examples to both horse and human!

I for one, wish more humans would take note of the special lessons old horses can teach us. They deserve to be appreciated, loved, and well-cared for in their later years rather than forgotten, discarded, and mislabeled as useless. Look into the eyes of an old schoolmaster, and you will see the years of stories hidden beneath. The mystery of what was and what is now. Once you realize this as I have, your heart may be forever changed by the realization of what a special gift these horses are and have been for us humans. They spend their lifetime in servitude to us- willingly. Stop and think how miraculous it really is that a 1000 lb creature willingly allows us to be "master."

All horses deserve to be loved and well-cared for, but especially old horses due to their many years of dedication and service. They deserve this respect back from us, and I hope to see more and more humans taking responsibility for their old "angels on earth" and show them the dignity in life and care that they so deserve right down to the end of their days.

From Memphis Horses- A Blog All About Horses in Memphis & Beyond

No Way! Horse "Turd" Shopping? Check this out!

2009-06-17T17:14:00.006-05:00

Okay, I can't resist sharing this! While my BFF's know the saying to the side is one of my favorites, I can't believe someone has actually incorporated this into a horse business! You simply must check out this website dedicated to the one true thing you can always depend on your beloved equine friend to bestow upon you- "poop" and lots of it! Check out this online store for at the very least a good laugh!

Is there something seriously wrong with me for seeing some items here I'd really like to have? I'm loving the coffee mug and night shirt. I dunno, I think the wall clock would look stellar in my house too, hum?

http://www.hoofprints.com/horsemanure.html

From Memphis Horses- A Blog All About Horses in Memphis & Beyond

Know how to take the TPR of your horse? Watch and Learn!

2009-06-15T10:39:00.001-05:00

Find more videos like this on Barnmice

The Horse: Pastured Horses More Fit, Study Finds

2009-06-10T08:04:00.001-05:00

The Horse: Pastured Horses More Fit, Study Finds

Posted using ShareThis

Germantown Charity Horse Show Great Fun!

2009-06-08T13:36:00.007-05:00

Alas, the Germantown Charity Horse Show has come and gone for another year. What great fun and a family tradition this horse festival is for many in the Memphis community! With the show being a week earlier this year than the traditional 2nd week of June, the show seems to have gotten a bit of a break from the scorching weather of years past. Despite a day of rain, and muddy tents, the weather was quite pleasant this year! With some even "chilly" evenings!

What a fabulous jumper turnout at this show! Many very talented junior riders and horses too! Surprisingly, the economy doesn't seem to have impacted the jumper entries. With classes like the the Welcome Jumper Stakes, the Pony Classic, the Junior/AO Classic, the 25,000 Grand Prix, as well as a great mix of Carriage Driving classes just to name a few favorites. The show was very entertaining. I must add that even my father, a non-horsey "horse-person" admitted that the Carriage Driving classes were for him the highlight of the show!

Of course, I enjoy the carriage driving too, but my personal favorite this year had nothing to do with horses at all! What? How can that be at a horse show, you say? Well, the "Team Ghost Riders" entertainment was absolutely something you'd have to see to believe and appreciate! What a hoot! This rodeo exhibition consisted of mokeys riding border collies while herding rams! I haven't laughed so hard in ages! Now I'm not sure that some animal activists would find this so entertaining, but from a fellow equestrian, I've gotta give those little primates snaps for their keen "riding skills." Those monkeys were quite the equestrians! What balance and agility! I'm sure none of this had to do with being tied down to their miniscule "monkey saddles!" Nah, cutting horse riders beware- you've got some new competition! Now, if I could only ride as well from my "core" my dressage trainer would be so pleased! Check out their website at http://www.teamghostriders.com/ for a laugh! I sure do hope to see them again at Germantown!

Free Horse Driving Clinic to Public at Rollingwoods Farm in Olive Branch, MS

2009-03-11T12:12:00.001-05:00

Rollingwoods Farm and the Nashoba Carriage Society offer open clinic to public
By: Lauren Pigford

OLIVE BRANCH, Miss.- Each year the Wilburn sisters of Rollingwoods Farm team up with their close friends of the Nashoba Carriage Society and host the Introduction to Carriage Driving Clinic.

This year the clinic will be held Saturday, March 7, at 10368 Goodman Rd. Olive Branch, Miss (property of Olive Branch Animal Clinic). It will start at 9 a.m. and will end at noon. The clinic is free and open to the public to help promote carriage driving.

Joanna Wilburn and sister Sally Ross Davis will instruct the clinic. Wilburn, who specializes in training people how to drive and Davis, who specializes in breaking ponies and horses how to drive, will focus on how to harness a pony and horse properly, specific types of carriages and will instruct and supervise drivers.

Members of the Nashoba Carriage Society volunteer their time, ponies, horses and equipment for this yearly event. Nora Land, one of Nashoba’s most talented young, junior drivers volunteers and participates each year in the Introduction to Carriage Driving Clinic.

“It is very fun and educational. I learn something new every year,” Land said.

Land is 14 years old and has been competitively driving for five years now. Besides helping out at the Introductory Clinic she is also a Camp Counselor at one of the only junior driving camps in the nation, Drive My Buggy Carriage Camp, held yearly at Kimberlin Farms. Land is also the winner of the Libby Whitmore Memorial Award, Nashoba’s highest honor for one of it’s members earning the highest points in championship classes at their yearly show held in September.

Land is instructed by Wilburn and Davis in several clinics, “Jo Jo and Sally Ross are hilarious. Their clinics are so much fun,” said Land while laughing in memory.

Everyone is welcome to attend the clinic, even those who have never driving before. This is a clinic to help the growth of carriage driving in the area. There will be refreshments such as Coffee and Hot Cocoa available along with some snacks.

Volunteers will have their ponies and horses available to those who wish to ride or drive in the carriages.

“My favorite part of the clinic is driving people around,” Land said.

Joanna Wilburn and Sally Ross Davis along with sister Ruth Wilburn DVM and Stacy West own Rollingwoods Farm. They produce top quality Welch ponies and are known for their National Driving Champions as well as their Champions in open driving competitions. The Wilburn sisters have an ideal location for driving clinics. Their indoor arena is perfect for any type of weather, rain or shine.

The Wilburn sisters along with Nashoba Carriage Members will be onsite to answer any questions about taking carriage driving lessons, purchasing or breaking a carriage driving pony or horse and or joining the Nashoba Carriage Society.

Come and have fun at this topnotch facility and learn all you need to know about Carriage Driving. This is a growing sport in the area and more and more people are joining with enthusiasm.

Joanna Wilburn, clinician, and Nora Land, camp counselor, of Drive My Buggy Carriage Junior Camp instruct

FCAR Horse Rescue

2009-02-02T16:18:00.002-06:00

FCAR Rescue Adopted by Priscilla Presley & Elvis Presley Enterprises

In April 2008 FCAR rescued 17 horses from a situation of extreme cruelty and neglect in Williston, TN. The owner was ultimately convicted of animal cruelty and all of the animals were released to the care of Fayette County Animal Rescue. Well one of those horses has just found a little piece of heaven and was adopted by Priscilla Presley and Elvis Presley Enterprises. The official announcement and welcoming for Bandit will be on January 8, 2009. Media and fans from around the world will focus on Graceland for Elvis' birthday celebration which will include Bandit's introduction as the newest addition to the Graceland family.

Recently quoted in the Commercial Appeal: "Unfortunately several didn't make it," said Presley, who says she is grateful to Fayette County Animal Rescue and the state for rescuing most of the horses.

For additional details go to:
- http://www.elvis.com/news/full_story.asp?id=1685
- http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2009/jan/08/priscilla-brings-rescued-horses-to-02/
- http://www.wmctv.com/global/story.asp?s=9639160

For the CNN Larry King Live interview with Priscilla Presley and tour of the horses including Bandit, go to: http://www.cnn.com/video/#/video/bestoftv/2009/01/08/lkl.presley.graceland.tour.cnn?iref=videosearch

Check out these AWESOME TBs available for Adoption!

2009-01-23T09:10:00.002-06:00

Here's your chance to adopt some fabulous hunter/jumper, dressage, and three-day prospects!Check out these horses needing new homes:

Welcome to the

Illinois Equine Humane Center

Horses available for adoption

Royally Robbed (a.k.a "Robbie")

Robbie is a 4 year old, 16.1 h., dark bay, Thoroughbred gelding. Robbie is a very sweet and well-mannered boy who has no stable vices. Robbie is currently recovering from cartilage damage to his left knee, sustained during his brief racing career, and will require a few more months rehabilitation before being slowly restarted under-saddle. Robbie is currently available for adoption to that special someone looking for a flatwork-only prospect.

P.J.'s Play (a.k.a. "PJ")

PJ is a 10 year old, 15.3 h., gray, Thoroughbred mare. PJ has spent the past few years as a broodmare. Prior to her years as a "mommy", P.J. enjoyed a brief racing career. PJ. is an absolute joy to work around and handle. She is very quiet, sweet, and laid-back. PJ is currently available for adoption and we hope to find her that perfect someone who has the skills and desire to re-train this lovely mare for a new career as a show or pleasure horse. At only 10 years of age, the sky's the limit for PJ!

Lady Garthorn (a.k.a. "Lady")

Lady is a 16 year old, 15.3 h., dark bay, Thoroughbred mare. Lady has spent the past several years as a broodmare. Lady previously enjoyed a very successful career as a racehorse, and retired from racing in 1998 with career earnings of nearly $150k! Lady is a very kind and gentle soul who is a pleasure to work around and handle. In working with Lady it is clear to see that she just adores and craves human affection. Lady is available for adoption to that special someone who will provide her with the attention and affection she longs for and most clearly deserves!

Xcellent Jazz (a.k.a. "Jazz")

Jazz is a stunning 5 year old, 16.0 h., dark bay, Thoroughbred gelding. Jazz was very lightly raced having made only 3 lifetime starts, before sustaining an injury to his left front tendon sometime in 2007 Jazz has since recovered from the injury and in fact, was back in training as a racehorse in 2008 before being sold as part of an estate dispersal auction. Jazz is currently available for adoption and would be best suited to someone interested in a flatwork/dressage horse prospect.

Conte's Whirl (a.k.a. "Conte")

Conte is a gorgeous 4 year old, 16.0 h., bay, Thoroughbred gelding. Conte enjoyed moderate success as a racehorse and was only just recently retired (Sept.'08) from racing. Conte is an absolute joy to work around, and is laid-back and easy to handle. Conte is available for adoption to that special someone who has the skills and desire to retrain this handsome boy for a new career as a sport or pleasure horse. Conte has all the right ingredients needed to make someone an incredible show hunter, dressage, or event prospect! Sport-horse people should please take notice of this guy!

Sharp N' Appealing (a.k.a. "Sharpy")

Sharpy is a 2 year old, bay, Thoroughbred gelding. Sharpy was recently in race-training before being sold as part of an estate dispersal sale. Sharpy is a well-adjusted two-year old, with correct conformation and lovely movement. Sport horse people should take notice of this youngster who has his whole life and career ahead of him! Sharpy is currently available for adoption or foster!

Popiscue (a.k.a. "Poppy")

Poppy is an 11 year old, 16.1 h, dark bay, Thoroughbred gelding. Poppy enjoyed a very successful racing career in his native country of Brazil before being brought to the United States. Poppy has undergone some retraining with his former owner, and was just recently started over-fences. Poppy is currently available for adoption or foster!

Memphis Horse Trailer/Truck Recommendations

2008-12-16T17:27:00.004-06:00

I'm going to start shopping for my first horse trailer/truck soon....okay, so I'll need to first learn how to drive a rig... watch out Memphis! I'd appreciate some feedback from fellow horse enthusiasts who have a little "Know How" in this department! I'm leaning towards a three horse slant load goose neck. Don't need living quarters, but would like decent storage/tack area.

There are so many out there to choose from....Keifer, Sundowner, Exiss, Sooner. etc....anyone think one model is best? I've been checking online, but am already feeling overwhelmed with options!!! I'd like a new one, but will consider used one if not over 5 yrs old. Can anyone recommend a good Memphis or Midsouth area horse trailer/truck dealer with a website? What about truck models? Leaning towards Ford 250/350...any comments on this topic?

UPDATE: TB Dispersal Sale

2008-12-09T11:02:00.005-06:00

Good news! Here' s an encouraging update on the TB Dispersal Sale that took place in IL this past weekend. Luckily, good Samaritans stepped up to help many TB's and they now have a chance to find loving homes! Please consider making a contribution to help these rescue organizations continue to support these horses, or consider adopting, sponsoring, or fostering one of these horses. Tis' the season for Memphis Horse lovers to help spread some holiday cheer to horses around the country!!!

Dear friends,

My apologies for the delay in getting this report out to everyone. It was a very long, exhausting, yet incredibly successful effort this past weekend.

Because of the incredible support of ILEHC members and horse lovers throughout the country, we were able to save several Thoroughbred horses at the STC Racing Dispersal Auction in Mount Vernon, IL. Offered for sale were 65 horses ranging in age from foals to aged broodmares and stallions. I found it incredibly sad that many of the horses who were perfectly healthy, sound, and useful, were sold for just peanuts.

In total, the ILEHC rescued 13 horses who were at risk. We also acted as agent in facilitating the purchase of the stallion, Company Approval, for a private party from Canada who asked us to purchase the horse on his behalf.

Those at risk who were rescued by the ILEHC are as follows:

#6 Xcellent Jazz

#8 Conte's Whirl

#12 Company One

#19 Sharp N Appealing

#24 Unnamed 2007 filly out of Litigant Cat

#25 Unnamed 2007 filly out of Rylee Belle

#33 Sunshine Dottie

#34 Unnamed 2008 filly out of Sunshine Dottie

#37 P.J.'s Play

#41 Sooner Defence

#51 Lady Garthorn

#55 Sharp N Lively

#61 Popsicue (last minute addition to the sale who was not included in the catalogue)

The total paid for horses was $4,475.00 or an average of approximately $355.00 per horse. During the bidding, we noticed at least 2 individuals who are well-known to purchase horses for slaughter often times were the only people bidding against us. Thankfully, the two men dropped out of the bidding once the prices reached $300- $400. It is very clear that had the ILEHC not been there to assist, any or all of these horses could have very well been sold to slaughter.

The ILEHC would like to express our deep appreciation to everyone who donated money, time, or resources to assist in this incredibly successful rescue effort. We would like to particularly thank the wonderful folks at Mid-America Horse Rescue (MAHR) for partnering with us in this effort. We are deeply grateful to MAHR and their incredible team of volunteers for all their help and support throughout this effort. Additionally, we'd like to thank MAHR for graciously offering to take Sunshine Dottie and her 2008 foal, and Sooner Defence into their program. Many thanks to MAHR, for helping to ease the burden this rescue places upon the ILEHC. Anyone interested in adopting either of these 3 particular horses, please contact Margo Sutter at MAHR 314-302-2216 or visit their website www.mahrnfp.org

The ILEHC would also like to express our heartfelt gratitude to Keith Caughran for offering to provide tranport and temporary foster care for many of the Mt. Vernon horses. Keith and his family endured a very long and freezing cold day at the auction, and at day's end, transported 4 of the horses to his facility where they will be cared for until arrangements can be made to transport them to the ILEHC. As if Keith's efforts were not already enough, he then made a second trip on Sunday morning to pick-up an additional 3 horses who is is also fostering at his farm! I simply do not have any idea what I would have done with all these horses had Keith not stepped up to help.

Now for the really good news....several of the horses have already been spoken for or have found new homes! Company One is already at home with her new (and very much elated!) owner in Wisconsin. Sharp N Lively has been rehomed with a couple who have agreed to provide her with much needed and costly eye removal surgery once her 2009 foal is born. We have adoptions pending on at least 2 or 3 other horses. We also have potential foster home offers for 4-5 horses. Needless to say, the support of the IL equine community has been nothing short of incredible. I am humbled and overwhelmed by the number of people who have stepped up to ensure the safety of these horses.

In the coming week we will be assessing each of the horses for soundness, temperment, and suitability. Once we get everything sorted out, we will post detailed information and photographs of the horses available for adoption on our website. Please make sure to check our website for updates on the horses and their availability. If anyone is interested in adopting a horse, please be sure to ask us to send you an adoption application!

The easy part of this rescue is now over and thus begins the more difficult and costly aspect of rehoming each of these wonderful horses. Please consider adopting a horse if you are able, or please consider making a donation to help us provide for the ongoing care and support of the horses until they can be successfully rehomed. Online donations can be made at our website www.ilehc.org or checks payable to: ILEHC, NFP can be mailed to: ILEHC - P.O.Box 4203 - Rockford, IL 61110.

Once again -- our deepest heartfelt gratitude to all who helped to safeguard the lives and well-being of these magnificent Thoroughbreds. This truly was an amazing team effort and without each of you who stepped up to help, none of this would have been possible. Well done everyone!!!

Kind regards to all...

Gail Vacca, President
Illinois Equine Humane Center, NFP
19501 West Ballou Road
Wilmington, IL 60481
Tel:815-476-5257
Email: info@ilehc.org
Website: http://www.ilehc.org

Every horse has an owner. Every owner has a responsibility.

UPDATE TB's at Risk: Donate Now to save

2008-12-05T14:07:00.001-06:00

UPDATE: AT RISK TB horses: Hammond Auction:
The Illinois Equine Humane Center is taking donations to apply toward the most at risk horses in the Illinois TB dispersal auction. PLEASE GO TO THIS SITE AND CLICK THE DONATION button in the top right corner- it will help save a horse from slaughter! Pass along to your "horsey" contacts.

Gail Vacca, President of the Illinois Equine Humane Center, NFP is going personally to this auction and will use these donations to save the most at risk. She is also taking donations from private buyers. Please contact her if interested in being a private buyer or know someone who is, or can foster a horse.

Gail Vacca, President
Illinois Equine Humane Center, NFP
19501 West Ballou Road
Wilmington, IL 60481
Tel:815-476-5257
Email: info@ilehc.org
Website: http://www.ilehc.org

URGENT: TB dispersal auction in Illinois- horses at Risk

2008-12-04T15:21:00.002-06:00

There is a huge TB dispersal sale this coming Saturday (Dec. 6) in downstate Mt. Vernon.

The entire farm (property, machinery, tack, horses, etc) is being auctioned starting at 9:30
http://www.blogger.com/redirect?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww%2Ehammondauction%2Einfo%2FHome_Page%2Ephp&urlhash=_esl&_t=disc_detail_link

Word from my very reliable sources is that the farm owners have notified the local MEATMEN who intend to be present to bid on the horses. There are 17 mares with babies (some mares are carrying 2009 foals), 18 yearlings and 2-yr olds, 11 horses of racing age, and 3 stallions - total 49 horses. One of the stallions is absolutely gorgeous. Some of the mares are older and would likely end up at slaughter.

I am trying to arrange it so that I can attend the sale. The auction is a total dispersal of farm equipment tack, and horses. PLEASE PLEASE consider going there to purchase a horse and save a life. Many of the horses are younger and gorgeous. If you click on the website above, be sure to click on 'horse info" Send this email out to all your horse contacts.

At this time, Illinois Equine Humane Center is not set up to purchase horses and we don't yet have a facility for them (we need money, hint, hint). Perhaps one or more of you who get this with impeccable credentials would consider purchasing a horse and fostering it while ILEHC assists in placing it in a permanent home??? If so, I will do whatever I can to facilitate that.

If you can't take a horse, PLEASE forward this to all your horse contacts. Maybe some eventers out there are looking for a new prospect and this is just the place to find one. Thanks for your help and please don't hesitate to contact me with ideas on how to help.

Christine E. Righeimer
CERigheimer@ rtbizlaw.com

Memphs Horse Lovers, please Support Horse Rescues

2008-11-17T16:20:00.003-06:00

Winter is fast-approaching, and with it brings an increasing need for support for equine rescue groups! With the economy in such dismal shape, more horses than ever need assistance! Please consider contributing to an equine rescue.

I'm sure my fellow Memphis horse-lover's realize how much horses have enriched our lives, and why not give an unwanted horse a second chance to find that owner they've been searching for? When I was a teenager, my parents gave an unwanted horse a chance for me. This horse became my best friend for 17 years and taught me some of my most valuable life lessons. Because of this experience, I will always have a soft spot in my heart for "rescues" and helping them is near and dear to me!

Do you know of any local equine rescues in need? If so, please comment and fill me in! Below is a list of national rescues to choose from:

Another Chance 4 Horses
Located in Bernville, Penn., this program focuses on equine rescue, rehabilitation and placement.
Black Forest Animal Sanctuary
Formerly Hunting Crest Farms Rescue and Rehab, this Colorado based rescue and rehab center helps unwanted or abused horses and ponies. Sponsorship program provides veterinary care, feed and farrier visits for their horses.
CANTER
The Communication Alliance to Network Thoroughbred Ex-Racehorses has programs in MI, IL, OH, PA and TX and the New England and Mid-Atlantic regions. Provides information and resources for people wishing to purchase ex-racehorses.
Colorado Horse Rescue
Colorado Horse Rescue rehabilitates neglected and abused horses and finds them new homes. Server can be slow to respond.
Equine Rescue and Rehabilitation
Equine Recsue and Rehabilitation's goal is to match the right horses with the right people in a partnership beneficial to both human and animal.
Equine Rescue League
Read about the Equine Rescue League, its foster and adoption programs and how you can be a volunteer in a wide variety of areas.
Equus Sanctuary
This extensive Website is dedicated to educating the public about horse abuse. You can meet the people behind Equus Sanctuary and the horses they have rescued.
Front Range Equine Rescue
Front Range assists horses in need through its rescue and fire/disaster evacuation programs and offers educational events to promote responsible horse ownership.
Habitat for Horses
Located in Hitchcock, Texs, Habitat for Horses offers a safe haven for rescued and neglected horses. You'll find information about the programs and sponsorships available.
Heaven Can Wait Equine Rescue
Located in Ontario, Canada, Heaven Can Wait takes in unwanted and abused horses and finds adoptive homes for them.
Horse Advocates Voicing Equine Needs
HAVEN, located in Southern Indiana, establishes and provides programs for horses in need to give them a chance at finding a loving, caring and permanent home.
Horse's Haven
Horse's Haven care for horses and donkeys in need, they accept donated animals and, where possible, retrain and rehabilitate them, ready for adoption.
Indiana Horse Rescue
IHR is the Equine Division of the Animal Protection Coalition, Inc.
Lone Star Equine Rescue
Improving the welfare of equines in Texas by educating the public on the proper care of horses, assisting in seizures when necessary and finding new homes for rescued horses.
Lost and Found Horse Rescue
Working to educate horse owners, legislate the humane treatment of horses everywhere and find homes for abused or neglected equines of all descriptions. Located outside York, Penn.
MSPCA at Nevins Farm's Equine Center
The Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals at Nevins Farm/Equine Center is dedicated to the welfare and humane treatment of horses through rescue, rehabilitation, adoption, foster care, emergency transportation and education programs.
Mylestone Equine Rescue Home Page
Mylestone Equine Rescue provides shelter, care and rehabilitation for horses in the New Jersey area and is often these horses' last hope.
New Vocations Racehorse Adoption Program
New Vocations offers retiring racehorses a safe-haven, rehabilitation and placement in experienced, caring homes. Also acts as an outreach to disadvantaged youth.
Ozland Horse Rescue
Ozland Horse Rescue is dedicated to saving horses from starvation, neglect and abuse. Located in the Ozark foothills, the rescue is willing to help horses in surrounding states.
PMU Foal Adoption Network
PMU FANI is a volunteer, incorporated non-profit foal placement group dedicated to minimizing the number of PMU (pregnant mare urine) foals that end up at auction by facilitating the adoption of these foals into good, loving homes.
Rainbow Acres Horse Rescue
Located in Carlisle, Penn., Rainbow Acres is staffed by volunteers who take in auction or slaughter-bound horses and help them find new homes.
ReRun - Another chance for racehorses
This Equine Rescue is dedicated to "recycling" and finding adoptive homes for injured and retired racehorses. Some may be ridden, some not, but all need good homes.
Racehorse Outplacement Assistance Network
ROAN is a group of individuals who network via the Internet to find adoptive homes for horses who can't race anymore.
Second Chance Thoroughbred Adoption Agency
Located in Augusta, Mich., Second Chance obtains thoroughbred ex-racehorses from tracks and other locations and finds good homes for them.
Second Wind Adoption Program
Located at Crossed Sabers Stable, in West Union, W.V., Second Wind finds qualified homes for abused and neglected horses.
Standardbred Retirement Foundation
This foundation is dedicated to rehabilitating retired standardbreds and finding new home and new lives for them.
United States Equine Rescue League
The USERL assists in the rescue and rehabilitation of abandoned, abused, and/or neglected equines.
White Bird Appaloosa Horse Rescue
The rescue is dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of abused, neglected and at-risk Appaloosas and other breeds of horses, especially those in danger of slaughter.

Hurricane Ike Horse and Cattle Relief

2008-09-24T11:21:00.003-05:00

There a many, many displaced horses and cattle in need of fresh food and water in the Galveston area. As a result, the Texas Dept. of Agriculture and the the Texas AgriLife Extension service have set up the "No Fences" donation relief fund to assist needy animals. Please click here to make your donation and read more!

Hurricane Ike Photos

2008-09-23T15:24:00.009-05:00

Check out these heart-wrenching photos showing the devastating effect Hurricane Ike can have on horses and livestock. All but the last are from Hackberry, Louisiana. The last one is from Galveston, TX.

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Help Feed a Horse in Need Today!

2008-08-19T15:38:00.002-05:00

Horse sanctuaries around the country are in crisis over the soaring cost of hay! In order to provide critical help to end this crisis, the ASPCA has created an Emergency Hay Fund. This Fund will provide much needed financial assistance to horse sanctuaries to help reduce the burden of escalating hay costs.

The Horse: Racehorse Rehabilitator Helps Transition to New Careers

2008-07-15T12:52:00.002-05:00

Read this article about the great contributions rider/trainer Leigh Gray has made to Thoroughbred horses. What a great role model for the equestrian community! Good job Leigh, keep up the good work!!!

The Horse: Racehorse Rehabilitator Helps Transition to New Careers

Posted using ShareThis

RaceTracks Cracking Down on Horse Slaugter!

2008-07-03T16:19:00.002-05:00

Suffolk Downs in Boston is taking an innovative approach to cutting down on racehorses being sent to slaughter. In an effort to combat this, they are refusing to allow stabling to trainers who sell to slaughter. Click here to read more!

SOURCE: TheHorse.com

Great New Trail Riding Newsletter!

2008-05-23T11:08:00.002-05:00

Check out the NEW On the Trail newsletter from equisearch.com

There are some great articles in here for trail riding enthusiasts!

Welcome to the Equine Network's On the Trail monthly e-newsletter, an online resource to help you enjoy the great outdoors with your horse. In each issue, we'll share tips for making the most of your trail outings and links to articles and videos on EquiSearch.com.

If you would like to keep receiving this newsletter, sign up here.

Build a Better Trail Horse
Seasoned veterans and novice trail horses alike will benefit from our time-tested strategies for crossing water, going single file, maintaining a good pace and meeting other animals and people on the trail without spooking. Read more here.

Don't Leave Home Without...
Take along the following necessities even for trail rides of an hour or less:

watch

pocketknife

hoof pick

basic first-aid kit for horse and rider

identification on your person and attached to your horse

halter and lead rope so that you can control or tie your horse should your tack break

cell phone

Keep Your Horse Cool On The Trail
For some advice from an expert on how to prevent your horse from getting overheated during summer trail rides, click here.

Beware of Humidity
Moist air makes hot weather more dangerous because it slows the rate at which sweat evaporates. Here's a rule of thumb: Any time the temperature and humidity numbers added together total 130 or more--for example, 80 degrees Fahrenheit with 50 percent humidity--there's a serious risk of overheating. And if that total is 150--for example, 80 degrees Fahrenheit and 70 percent humidity--conditions are hazardous.

For Night Riders
If you'll be out on the trails after sundown, let a Saddlelight show you the way. Mounted on your horse's breast collar or saddle, the Saddlelight is specially designed to help you see better without interfering with your horse's night vision. Click here to see the Saddlelight in action.

Tennessee Getaway
At East Fork Ranch in Jamestown, Tennessee, you can enjoy organized rides on scenic trails through the Cumberland Plateau. Cabins, campgrounds, stalls, and paddock facilities are available for vacationing equestrians and their horses. Get more information here.

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TB Slaughter Rescue with Happy Ending

2008-05-22T12:01:00.008-05:00

What happens to a TB race horse when they can no longer race? Hopefuly, they are lucky enough to find good homes, but the racing industry... okay, so the entire Horse Industry... can be a cruel place!

Read this story about Little Cliff, a successful racehorse who originally had owners whom cared for him. Through time and a few sales, he ended up in the kill pen DESPITE the original owners having a sticker on his papers indicating on his papers to CALL IF THIS HORSE NEEDS A HOME ONCE RETIRED. Even still, no-one cared enough to contact the owners. Luckily, a good Samaritan came to his rescue. This type of complacency really fires me up in the horse industry... absolutely NO EXCUSE for the sale- New Holland, not to pay attention to this horse's papers!!!

Little Cliff rescued from slaughter

by Ed DeRosa

Little Cliff, one of two horses owner Robert LaPenta named after the late turf writer and chartcaller Cliff Guilliams, was rescued from slaughter on March 11.

Christy Sheidy, co-founder of Another Chance 4 Horses rescue in Bernville, Pennsylvania, discovered the five-year-old Gulch gelding in a direct-to-kill pen in New Holland, Pennsylvania. He had last raced in a $10,000 claiming race on March 1 at Philadelphia Park, finishing seventh of nine and earning $170 for owner LA Buzz Stable. Trainer Ramon Preciado had claimed the horse from Jimmy Moran Jr. for $10,000 on January 13.

Sheidy ran the gelding’s tattoo and had Diana Baker, formerly of the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation, pull a race record, which is when the connection to LaPenta and Racing Hall of Fame trainer Nick Zito appeared. Zito’s wife, Kim, is involved in horse rescue efforts as well.

“Mr. LaPenta and [Zito] sent a very generous check to Christy that more than covered [Little Cliff’s] expenses,” Baker said. “We couldn’t have asked for a better or more generous response than what we received.”

In a cruel twist of fate, Moran and Guilliams both died within a week of Little Cliff’s rescue but not before Nick Zito had a chance to tell Guilliams that one of his equine namesakes had been rescued.

“The Cliff’s Edge and Little Cliff were both named after [Guilliams],” Kim Zito said. “Nick had dinner with [Guilliams] just recently and told him what had happened to Little Cliff. [Guilliams] got very emotional and very upset.”

LaPenta purchased Little Cliff for $250,000 at the 2004 Keeneland September yearling sale and bought him back on a bid of $350,000 at the 2005 Fasig-Tipton Calder sale of selected two-year-olds in training.

Little Cliff finished sixth behind eventual Grade 1 winners and Central Kentucky stallions Political Force and Flashy Bull in his second career start before winning his next two races by a combined 6 1/4 lengths to close out his two-year-old season. At three, he finished third in both the Leonard Richards (G3) and Sir Barton Stakes. He won three of 27 starts and earned $202,762.

Although Little Cliff had changed owners four times throughout his life before being rescued, one thing that followed him from Kentucky to New York to Florida to Pennsylvania were his Jockey Club papers, papers that Kim Zito had affixed with a white sticker that says, “If this horse needs a home when he retires, please call.”

“The tragic part of this story is that Little Cliff had this sticker on his papers, and that breaks my heart because it proves that there are people in this industry who don’t give a [darn],” Kim Zito said.

SOURCE: Ed DeRosa and TheThoroughbredTimes.com

IMPORTANT Purina Feed Recall

2008-05-08T16:56:00.003-05:00

Major Feed Recall

Land O Lakes/Purina has issued a feed retrieval for a number of brands.

Land O Lakes/Purina has issued feed recalls, or "retrievals," for a variety of their brands manufactured between the dates of November 3, 2007, and March 10, 2008. These feeds were identified to contain greater than 20 ppb of aflatoxins, originating from a single ingredient from a single supplier. Only specific manufacturing plants and dates are involved. The recalled products also vary.

As of May 6, 2008, the contaminated feeds had been distributed in the following states: Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia and West Virginia.

The manufacturing plants involved, and dates, are:• Statesville, North Carolina: Feeds manufactured between November 3, 2007, and February 8, 2008.• Harrisburg, Pennsylvania: Feeds manufactured between January 1, 2008, and February 8, 2008.• Guilderland, New York: Feeds manufactured between January 8, 2008, and March 10, 2008.

If you have purchased a Purina feed and live in one of the involved states, check the bottom edge of your feed bag for a date code. The date codes on Purina feeds are in this format: 7NOV03STA

The first number is the year. "7" = 2007, "8" = 2008. The next code is the month. "NOV" = November. Next two digits are the day. "03" = 3rd (of November in this case). Last three letters are the plant code. STA = Statesville. HAR = Harrisburg. GLD = Guilderland.

If you have feed from one of these three plants manufactured within the recall dates, call your feed dealer to see if your specific brand is involved in the recall. If you purchased feed during the time frames listed for the recall but no longer have your bags, call your dealer anyway to see if the feed you use was involved in the recall.

If your horses are having health problems of unknown cause, call your veterinarian and let him/her know you may have fed aflatoxin-contaminated feed. Feed, urine or liver biopsy tissues can be tested for aflatoxin and aflatoxin metabolites. Your state’s Department of Agriculture should also be notified if your veterinarian suspects feed related health issues.

Note: As of May 6, this was an ongoing issue. Further recalls could be issued. Details are still very sketchy. Other feeds could also be involved but no details are available. Signs range from acute liver failure to stunted growth in young horses, poor hair coat, abnormal liver enzymes on blood chemistry, jaundice (yellow eyes and gums), feed refusal, unexplained loss of condition, poor immune system function. Fetal abnormalities have been reported in other species.

This information comes from Eleanor Kellon, VMD
Horse Journal Veterinary Editor

Impressive Dressage Moves!

2008-04-09T11:04:00.003-05:00

Check out this impressive Dressage video... wow!

Who Needs a Saddle and Bridle?

2008-02-19T17:21:00.005-06:00

I LOVE My TB's!

2008-01-21T10:29:00.000-06:00

I just got back from the horse races in Hot Springs, AR this weekend- great fun! I must admit, I learned that picking winning Thoroughbred runners is not my forte! I can't get past picking potential Eventer/Dressage/Hunter prospects! Boy, did I spot some good prospects!!!

I am absolutely CRAZY about TB's. What fantastic and beautiful horses they are! It's so amazing to see them in the racing environment and what they experience at such a young age! It also made me REALLY appreciate my two young TB's- Gage and Bucky and realize how very fortunate they are to have the life they do!!! My little 4 yr old, Bucky, sure does look different than the 4 yr olds I saw racing! He is so much more "solid" and mature looking than those guys!

So many beautiful horses and prospects. I found myself wondering what will happen to so many youngsters when their racing careers are over? I so hope, they all end up as lucky as Gage and Bucky. If ever thinking about getting a horse, please consider TB's! I wish more trainers would retrain ex-racers for careers as Hunter/Jumpers in Memphis! What wonderful event and pleasure prospects too!

I really appreciate trainers out there working to retrain quality TBs for different disciplines! I've been lucky to have many TB's in my lifetime and there's nothing like the courage, loyalty, intelligence, humor, and work ethic of a TB! Give em a chance and you'll be hooked on them too!

Click these links to learn more about TB's looking for a second career and home:

Fifty Fifty Farm

Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation

I Put My Bucks Where They Count- Bucky! Check out his latest pics!

2008-01-16T16:37:00.000-06:00

Just sharing some latest pictures taken by my lil' sister of my guy "Bucky" aka "Buck on the Go" Isn't my little 4 yr old TB a cutie!

Joanna Wilburn Jr. Driving CDE Clinic Update from Kimberlin Farms

2008-01-14T10:21:00.000-06:00

The CDE clinic with Joanna Wilburn held January 12, was great fun and a fabulous event for junior drivers to learn about carriage driving CDE's. There will no doubt be more of these planned in the future for both juniors and adults at Kimberlin Farms!

There were several phases to this clinic. Before hitching up, students gathered to get the "low-down" about what's involved in a CDE event. Next, drivers got to "walk" a scurry course, a timed cones course, and an obstacle course. Joanna helped advise each participant about how to "walk" cones and obstacle couses, and how to create a strategies best suited to each driver/pony/horse/vehicle combination. Then the fun began and true competition mode set in! All participants were timed and evaluated. And everyone learned from each other!

Joanna has everyone hooked on CDE's! We can't wait to practice more, and hope to compete in a CDE event soon! So watch out Memphis drivers- juniors will be joining in all the CDE fun very soon!

Click here to read more about this clinic

Responsible Horse Ownership

2008-01-11T12:58:00.000-06:00

I just ran across a fabulous horse organization working to educate the horse industry about Responsible horse ownership! The Unwanted Horse Coalition, is an organization made up of various equine rescue groups which have joined together under the American Horse Council. The goal is to help horses receive humane care throughout life and educate owners on services, options, and assistance available.

Take some time to review the important information on this site, and be sure to review their responsible care booklet as well as brochure and video below:

Source: Unwanted Horse Coalition

The ABC's of CDE's

2008-01-07T23:20:00.000-06:00

So, have you heard about driving cde's? Once you discover this exciting and challenging sport, you'll probably be just as hooked as me! There's lots of interest brewing in Memphis about cde's! There's even a junior driving CDE clinic this Saturday, January 12 at Kimberlin Farms-lucky kids!

CDE's are like eventing, but carriage driving rather than riding. It consists of three phases, like an event. The three phases of carriage driving CDE's are:

Dressage
Cross Country Marathon with Hazards- comparable to eventing cross country phase
Cones competition- comparable to eventing stadium jumping phase

Click here to read more details from the American Driving Society about Drving CDEs.

Memphis Hunter/Jumper Industry Becoming Too Elitist? My Opinion is Yes.

2008-01-03T23:13:00.000-06:00

Is it just me, or is the local hunter/jumper industry becoming even more "elitist?" I remember a time in this area when there were plenty of affordable, fun, family horse activities that didn't break the bank. There were plenty of quality boarding barns to choose from, a plethora of well attended horse shows- rated and schooling, a nice variety of quality horses of all different breeds, riding lessons that didn't cost what you'd expect to pay for an "Olympic level" clinician. We do have several schooling show options in the area now- although it appears attendance at these is dwindling? Seems like many trainers boycott all but the A shows. From their business standpoint, I understand that there is more money in those for them. Seasoned trainers, who've "paid their dues" so to speak, surely deserve to be selective! But it worries me when I notice newer trainers following this trend. It worries me because I see this type of mentality hurting our local horse industry!

Not too terribly long ago in this area, finding a safe, sound, well-trained, quality hunter/jumper was not hard. Plenty to choose from. Plenty of trainers who worked hard, got down to the nitty-gritty and "trained" horses. Cranked out quality green horses year after year that they "TRAINED"- didn't just compete against other trainers on already trained horses- my personal pet peeve!!!

What has happened to the horse industry here? Since when did monthly board on a single horse jump to over a grand a month? Since when did the price of a single riding lesson skyrocket to the price of three/four? Since when did the only horse that can move and jump well become a warmblood costing close to $100 grand? (By the way, not knocking wb's I own one.... in addition to my TB's!)

I don't like this elitist trend in the horse industry here one bit! If the majority of equine professionals start taking this stance, and hiking up prices just b/c "so and so does...I'm as good as they are," pretty soon, we're going to see this industry dwindle and interest fizzle.

So, I guess "short-term," if you hike up fees to the extent that only the extremely wealthy can afford, you can do less work for more money? You can have less clients for awhile and just charge them more? But I've never been a "short-term" thinker, so here's the problem I foresee with this scenario- in the "long- term." What happens when these clients move along? Most clients aren't life-long clients. Will there be enough interest from newbies to replenish the natural cycle of clients? Enough interest in the horse industry locally to fuel horse shows?

Maybe I'm naive, maybe I just like rooting for the underdog?( I must admit to always having a bit of a stubborn streak and being a bit rebellious- and thick skinned) Here's what I'd like to see from the hunter/jumper horse industry in Memphis:

...I'd like to see a little more variety back. More variety in people, incomes.... more variety in horses, breeds.

...I'd like to see more trainers and shows offer affordable options to kids and adults who'd like to compete.

...I'd like to see "MORE" people get involved in the horse industry in this area!

...I'd like to see the number of entries increase at local horse shows!

We have good quality here. But there's always room for improvement! Let's work on beefing up the quantity; and sit back and watch the quality improve! There are plenty of fabulous horses in need of owners. Plenty of potential owners who'd offer fabulous homes to horses if horse-ownership is reasonably affordable! Plenty of FABULOUSLY talented and gifted riders out there who can hold there own against current top competitors if the playing field was leveled- so to speak- and the industry costs kept realistic.

Now I know this will ruffle a few feathers, but come on trainers, let's come back down to planet earth! Let's not all get in a competition of who can command the highest prices, who's clients can spend the most money on a horse that could be found at a fraction of the cost in someone's back yard, and with a little effort, time, and key word here: GOOD OLE FASHION TRAINING- could be every bit as successful as that horse shipped here from overseas!

I also want to say Thank You to all those trainers out there- and we are lucky to have many in this area- who are offering affordable horsemanship options, and who are not being "tempted" by the "over-the-top" greedy, horse-show only mentality. All those out there promoting horsemanship to families, kids, & adults.

Thanks to all those out there working to promote fun and affordable horse events, schooling shows, clinics, etc. that promote good horsemanship, and sportsmanship! We need more of that! Maybe we are lacking in this area honest to goodness"horse trainers." We used to have a great supply of hunter/jumper professionals who could train and instruct. Perhaps what we have here now are actually "Riding Instructors?" For all those "trainers" out there...and I must admit to having some darn good ones at my barn of the teenage kind...I have a challenge for you which will really help out our local horse industry:

....Please start training more horses and reintroducing safe, affordable, and sound, hunter prospects in our local market. We need more variety and not every horse that you sell has to be a $$$ warmblood.

....Not every horse you sell has to have a $$$ A-rated tag!

Where are the affordable thoroughbred prospects that trainers used to pump into our area? I know there are out there! Go out of town to an eventing show and its a trip back in time to what local hunter shows used to look like: thoroughbreds, quarter horses, appendix horses, warmbloods--- all types of horses competing. You see talented young riders on these horses who can RIDE! Most have had to train their own and bring them up through the levels. Too bad we don't have more trainers willing to retrain and resell these affordable prospects! They'd make a killing in this market!!!

....Since I keep bringing up the word "Affordable" let me clarify what affordable is. Affordable is not 50k, Affordable is not 30k, not 20k!!! I am so over the "myth" that in order to get a good "Prospect" you have to fork out at something close to 15-20k. That is pure BS!

... An Affordable Hunter/Jumper sound pleasure prospect can be found for under $10k.... under $5k.... under $3500! Trainers know they can find good prospects for almost give-away prices and with a little work and time flip them and make a profit. I know this can be done, can prove this can be done. I've been there done that. So, I'm happy to dispel this myth.

....Where are the quarter horses that make such wonderful novice horses for kids and adults? What the heck happened to the appendix horses that we used to see compete and hold their own?

If we could reintroduce more affordable horses along with more reasonable rates: board, instruction, and show fees, I predict we'd see an explosion of new interest and new riders in the area! More riders, more horses, more clients for trainers, more demand for new trainers, more competitions, more competitive competition....We need a reality check in the Memphis Hunter/Jumper industry. We also need to bring back the fun in horses!!!

Horse Blanketing Tips

2007-12-27T17:01:00.000-06:00

Horse Blanket Fit Basics

Follow this five-step check list to make sure your horse's blanket properly fits him.

From the editors of EQUUS Magazine

When bundling up your horse this winter, take a minute to check the fit of his blanket. Patterns and cuts from different manufacturers can make supposedly same-sized blankets fit quite differently. And changes in your horse's body condition can cause a cover that fit perfectly last year to be painfully ill-suited for his present profile.

The following five-point blanket check will make sure your horse is both warm and comfortable this winter:

1. Can you slip your hand easily between the blanket and his withers? Continual pressure in this area can produce discomfort or even lasting injury.

2. Is there room to slide a hand up into his shoulder area? Too tight a fit here will rub off hair and cause painful friction injuries.

3. Is the neck cut so your horse can graze without pain? Place a tempting treat at floor level and watch for pressure from the front buckles as he reaches for it.

4. Does the tail flap lift easily when your horse passes manure? An ill-designed or too-heavy tail cover will get in the way of falling manure and become a crusted mess.

5. Does the surcingle have to be adjusted tightly to keep the blanket in place? A blanket cut for your horse's body shape will stay in place without a tight, uncomfortable surcingle.

A "yes" to one or more of these questions means that your horse and his blanket are a poor match. Simple alterations and creative use of fleece can fix some minor fit problems but the best solution may be to replace the blanket altogether. Measure your horse before you go shopping and consult with the sellers about the right cuts and styles for his particular body shape and size. Try each purchase on your horse over a bed sheet; if you have to make a return because of poor fit, it will be clean and hair-free.

SOURCE: EQUUS Magazine and Equine.com

National Equine Rescue Group News

2007-12-26T11:53:00.000-06:00

With so many equine rescue groups out there, picking a reputable one can seem daunting. Luckily, there are movements underway to offer "national accreditation" for reputable horse rescue groups that will also offer rescue group's much needed financial support. Click here to read an interesting article about this horse rescue national accreditation movement!

SOURCE: TheHorse.com

Memphis Driving My Buggy Junior CDE Clinic at Kimberlin Farms- January 12th, 2-4pm

2007-12-20T13:09:00.002-06:00

Carriage driving is a fabulous equine sport for people and horses of all ages, sizes, and shapes. Children, grandparents, or even entire families can enjoy this sport. In my opinion, this is one of the best multi-breed horse sports available! Having the right temperament, horses of all ages, breeds, and sizes can enjoy the exciting sport of carriage driving!

On Saturday, January 12th from 1-3 p.m. Kimberlin Farms is offering a Driving My Buggy Junior Driving CDE (Combined Driving Event) clinic. Joanna Wilburn of Rollingwoods Farm, will be teaching this clinic with many of Kimberlin Farm's "more experienced" juniors assisting as navigators. This should be lots of fun and a great opportunity for junior drivers to learn more about CDE's- combined driving events. Interested? For more information about this fantastic local driving clinic send an email to the following address: Info@KimberlinFarms.com

Holiday Greeting Cards That Help Animals!

2007-12-04T12:58:00.000-06:00

Want to order a "Horsey" Holiday Greeting Card that will actually help horses? Consider these holiday cards from the ASPCA.

I've spotted a "potential" card for myself here. I was going to be "cheap" and create my own, but how can I resist saving myself some time and donating to a worthy cause instead!

Want to Learn about Carriage Driving in Memphis, TN?

2007-12-02T11:45:00.000-06:00

Located near Memphis, TN and interested in learning about carriage driving? Check out the following website: KimberlinFarms.com.This farm located near Memphis, TN, hosts many carriage driving educational opportunities including:

Carriage Driving Clinics
Carriage Driving Camps
Carriage Driving Events: Drives & Fun-Shows.

Currently in the Memphis, TN area, there is the Nashoba Carriage Club, which organizes numerous carriage driving opportunities in the area, such as the annual Nashoba Carriage Classic.

KimberlinFarms will offer more driving events in 2008, in an effort to help promote the sport of carriage driving in the Memphis area! If you're near Memphis, and are interested in learning more about carriage driving, be sure to bookmark the "Driving My Buggy" section of the Kimberlin Farms' site to keep up with Memphis Carriage Driving educational opportunities and events!

How Can Stickers Help Protect Thoroughbreds?

2007-11-30T15:25:00.000-06:00

Did you know that there is a sticker service available which can help address the situation of unwanted thoroughbred horses? Rerun, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping find homes for unwanted thoroughbred horses, offers a "sticker" program whereby stickers can be placed on a horse's papers indicating to contact a previous owner/breeder should a horse become unwanted. Stickers are available for FREE from Rerun!

I think this is a fantastic idea, and a way for previous owners and breeders to literally be "Guardian Angels" to those unfortunate horses who need a second chance! This great concept could potentially save many lives. Click here to read more!

Source: ReRun

Get Ready for Germantown Charity Horse Show

2007-05-28T14:52:00.001-05:00

School is out for the summer- can you believe it? With summertime, comes the excitement of a fantastic summertime horse show tradition in the Memphis area- the Germantown Charity Horse Show. A great multi-breed horse show rich in tradition and memories for the Germantown and Memphis community.

The show will be held June 12-16. Lots of fun! Of course this show hosts hunter/jumpers, saddlebreds, and walking horses, but one of the events I'm most excited about this year is the Carriage Driving classes! Single horse driving & a separate single pony driving class will take place on Tuesday evening! My sister and I will be showing against each other in the single pony class. She's planning on showing me up... we'll see. (Yes, we've got a little family rivalry brewing)

A special Junior driving carriage class open to junior drivers driving either ponies or miniature horses will take place on Wednesday evening this year! Can't wait for this. There are many juniors from our barn, Kimberlin Farms which will be competing. Should be great fun!

Click here to find out more about the Germantown Charity Horse Show.

My Springtime Horse Evaluation Ritual

2007-03-16T10:12:00.000-05:00

Ahhhh, daylight savings is here along with spring-like temps. Pear trees, red buds, daffodils, soon azalea blooms, and finally some green grass starting to grow. Already I have spring fever! I just want to be outside enjoying this awesome time of year.

I like to take this time of year- along with any seasonal change to assess my horses and get organized! April fools day is my yearly animal health care check up day. Time to have my vet do routine health checks including vaccinations, worming schedule assessments, teeth, and overall nutritional and body condition assessment.

It's important to monitor body condition and nutritional requirements year-round, but with spring comes the challenge of introducing your horses to rich, spring grasses. In my personal opinion, you just can't beat quality grass for nutritional value and weight gain for horses! But it's important to monitor horses going out on freshly growing grass closely to make sure not to "overdo" a good thing!

Horses out 24/7 can usually adjust well to the growing grass; however,during this time of year especially, horses prone to founder or overweight horses need to be carefully monitored on rich grass. If pastures are good and horses are able to get lots of good daily turnout and grazing time, it may be necessary to adjust your feeding regimen-grain/pellets, winter fed hay, winter supplements, cushings meds, etc. to prevent too much weight gain for horses on good spring grass. Monitor your horses condition closely, and always get your Vet's healthcare and nutritional advice!

For tips on determining your horse's best weight, click here to read an Equisearch article with photos to help distinguish between an overweight, too skinny, and just right horse.

Carriage Driving Basics- the nitty gritty stuff

2007-03-07T15:50:00.000-06:00

So, I've taken up carriage driving. I am by no means "literate" about all of the different types of carriages, their parts, or harness. I can hook up a mini- with the cart and harness that I'm used to using, but that doesn't mean I can quote the parts or hook up another horse to another cart!

I'm a work in progress and will eventually get around to learning more of the nitty gritty. Right now, it's just fun to hook up and drive!

But back to the nitty gritty of carriage driving, I have run across some useful informtion that I'll pass along about driving. First let me simplify the types of carriages for fellow "simple-minded k.i.s.s. folk" like myself, here's a nice way to break down horse vehicles:

Cart - Two Wheeled vehicle
Buggy - Basic 4 wheel vehicle
Carriage - fancier 4 wheel vehicle
Wagon - Farm type vehicle - Pick Up truck of the day.

Now we're going to be really ambitious and tackle the parts of a vehicle. The most basic parts of any cart are as follows:

Shafts- the two metal or wooden poles that go along the sides of the horse.

Singletree (also called swingletree or whiffletree)- that wooden piece that sits above the shafts and has a pivot point in the middle of it. You attach the traces to these and the horse pulls from it.

Floor- the place where you put your feet

Dash- the section of the floor that curves upward toward the shafts.

Seat- do you really need an explanation of this one?

Wheels- again, you got it.

That's about it for your truly basic cart parts. Anything beyond that probably won't show up on anything but a championship level knowledge bowl.Now, for those of you who like pictures, don't think I'm going to leave you out. Here are some diagrams and links to various vehicle and harness parts!

Horse Show Results

2007-03-06T09:50:00.000-06:00

Want to keep up with the latest midsouth area hunter/jumper horse show results? Then check out Horse Shows Online website for the latest show updates in the area.

Springtime Events for Memphis Horses

2007-02-26T12:29:00.000-06:00

I can't wait... Spring is almost here and with it, lots of fun-filled horse activities start back up- Yippee!!!

Here's some fun-filled events and activities to look out for:

Nashoba Carriage Club:
Hosts weekly spring drives. Next meeting for members and those interested in joining is March 13th at 6:30pm. Leave comment if interested in contact information or for weekly drive updates.

Alderwood Horse Shows:
Schooling show at Germantown Charity Horse Show Grounds:
Saturday, March 2nd
Saturday, March 24th- benefit WTHJA
Saturday, April 7th
Saturday, May 5th
More information available at http://alderwoodshows.com

West Tennessee Hunter Jumper Shows: WTHJA (A rated):
Springtime in Dixie, April 11-15
Springtime Encore, April 18-22
Memphis in May, May10-13
More information at http://www.wthja.com

Germantown Charity Horse Show Ball:
Friday, March 9th Woodland Hills Country Club

Hunter Schooling shows- Oakview/Shady Creek farm circuit:
Saturday, April 21
Saturday, May 26
More information at: http://www.oakviewstables.net

Delta Dressage Association Horse Shows:
Saturday, March 24th (unrated)
Saturday, May 5th Memphis in Springtime I- rated (Tunica, MS)
Sunday, May 6th Memphis in Springtime II- rated (Tunica, MS)
More information: http://www.deltadressage.com

MySpace for Horses

2007-02-19T15:21:00.000-06:00

Do you have a MySpace page created for your horse in the Memphis area? Calling all MySpace addicts.... Why not join me in creating a MySpace page for your horse? It's fun, it's entertaining, and we get to know local Memphis area horses better. Click here to take a look at my sister's page for her horse, Gage This. Gage will tell you all about himself, and his relatives, and would love some new "horsy" friends. Add Gage as a friend and be sure to leave me a link to your horse's page in comments!

Develop Confidence and Rythm with this Jumping Exercise

2007-02-19T11:41:00.000-06:00

I'm always on the lookout for riding exercises to help build rhythm and confidence for both horse and rider. Here's a great article with some easy jumping exercises to help. This article is written by well-respected hunter equitation trainer, Holly Hugo-Vidal. Memphians may remember her being a successful hunter trainer in the Memphis area several years back. This is an excerpt from her latest book:Build Confidence Over Fences

Source: Holly Hugo Vidal- Book Excerpt : Jump Single Fences Fear Free and Equisearch.com

Bucky is here! Check out my new man

2007-02-13T11:27:00.000-06:00

My New horse, Buck on the Go

2007-02-12T10:21:00.000-06:00

My new horse is en route to Memphis today from Lexington, KY. He should be here this afternoon. I'm so excited I can't stand it! His name is "Buck on the Go" Many thanks to Dr. Jennifer Smallwood, DVM and her husband, Jeremy for helping me find "Bucky!!!" Many pictures to come soon!!!

New Horse for ME

2007-02-09T15:20:00.000-06:00

I am so excited to be getting a new horse from Lexington, KY very soon! My new little buddy is a 3 1/2 yr old Unraced TB Gelding! I went up and meet him this past Monday, and vetted him out in 17 degree, snowy, weather. He was so well-behaved and Mr. Personality Plus. All I can say, is tooooo cute!!!

He should be delivered sometime within the next 7-10 days. I'm counting down! Pic's and name to come soon.

Thank you Barbaro

2007-01-31T16:52:00.000-06:00

Here's a touching article from the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation about Barbaro that I wanted to share on my blog:

Barbaro: Thanks For All You Did Barbaro's death has deeply saddened not only those of us at the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation, but, it seems, everyone. The support the public has shown this horse throughout his heroic battle has been a central part of the Barbaro story. People have cheered on the days when the news was good and wept on the days when the news was bad. Grief was everywhere Jan. 29, the day he was euthanized.

We thank Barbaro, and not just for what he did on the racetrack or for the memories, but for how he brought out the horse lover in so many of us. After this gripping story, never again can it be said that people don't care about the welfare of horses, be they famous Thoroughbreds or just an anonymous horse out in a field somewhere.

True to form, Roy and Gretchen Jackson, the remarkable couple that owned this horse, wanted to stress the positives Monday when addressing the media after it was announced that Barbaro had been put down. Horse lovers themselves, they understood that much good can come from the Barbaro story.

"Certainly, grief is the price we all pay for love," Gretchen Jackson said. "I am sure there are a lot of grieving people out there. A lot of them have contacted me and I am so very appreciative of that. I hope we can turn our love into an energy that supports horses throughout the world. Not just in our own country and not just the thoroughbred we love so dearly, but all horses. Each of us might find a certain path that interests us. Whatever it is, I just pray that you will follow that path in support of the horse."

Said Roy Jackson: "An awful lot of positives came out of this. Veterinary medicine has learned a great deal by this and the general public has been educated about veterinary medicine. There have been a whole host of subjects that have come to light because of this, like the anti-slaughter bill and helping people on the backstretch. Our hope is that some of these issues won't die and will continue be brought up and acted upon in a positive way."

We share those sentiments. As an organization that has worked tirelessly for more than 20 years on behalf of retired race horses and has saved thousands from going to slaughter, we have always known how much people care about horses, but have sometimes been frustrated by how the problem of caring for retired thoroughbreds has not gotten the attention we feel it deserves.

We ask now that people who are saddened by Barbaro's death do just what Gretchen Jackson suggested and do something on behalf of these beautiful creatures. That can include a donation to our organization. We need your help to care for the more than 1,300 horses living at our numerous farms and satellite facilities and to rescue even more horses from slaughter. But it doesn't have to be a donation to the TRF. Please pick any equine related charity. They all need help. Or adopt a retired Thoroughbred. Many make excellent show horses or just great pets. Or just write a letter to Dr. Dean Richardson at the New Bolton hospital and thank him for his heroic efforts to save Barbaro.

Our condolences go out to everyone involved with Barbaro at this sad time and we thank them for their efforts on his behalf and, quite simply, for how much they cared. We will do our small part Feb. 2 in Wellington, Florida. We had previously planned a fundraiser for that night in which Barbaro was to be honored along with his trainer, Michael Matz. The event will still go on as planned. For more information about the TRF or the party, you can contact us in our Saratoga offices at 518-226-0028.

Source: Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation- TRF

Carriage Driving Update

2007-01-30T11:33:00.000-06:00

Carriage Driving is one of the activities I plan to focus lots of my own attention on this year. Even though I still enjoy riding, I don't have any desire to compete. Guess I've been there done that. But, I've been "bit" by the comptetitive driving bug! I plan on competing again this year at some local and out of town rated driving shows/events.

It's pretty cold out now and my little mini driving buddy, Domino is so furry, he looks more like a grizzly bear than a horse! The weather has been so wet and cold, that we haven't been driving often. He's enjoying a winter "siesta!" Never fear little buddy, as soon as spring rolls around, it's back to mini boot camp- poor fella.

Actually, Dimo has a new fancy Zilco harness along with a super sweet and fancy pleasure gig- one seater just for me! I hooked him up to the new gig the other evening and it fit him like a glove. What an awesome ride- Dimo was "strutting his stuff" It's lighter than the cart he's been driving, and it sits up higher- so it's a new feel. It's really smooth and makes no noise- kind of like moving up from a buick to a cadillac. Can't wait to use it in the cones and dressage driving tests this year!

Anyway, I'm trying to get more familarized with ADS forms, handbooks, and basic dressage driving tests. Here's a helpful link to a variety of ADS forms and tests for interested driving enthusiasts.

For those interested in learning more about driving in the Memphis, TN area, The Nashoba Carriage Club is a great local driving club. Unfortunately, there's no website currently. Leave a comment if interested in more info about the club and I'll pass on contact info.

American Horse Slaughter Prevention Act Reintroduced in Congress

2007-01-17T15:32:00.000-06:00

Legislation to ban the slaughter of American horses for foreign dinner plates was introduced right out of the gate in the 110th Congress.

In the Senate, the Horse Slaughter Prevention Act, S. 311, was launched Jan. 17 by Sens. Mary Landrieu, D-La., and John Ensign, R-Nev., with 11 original cosponsors. In the House, Reps. Janice Schakowsky, D-Ill., Ed Whitfield, R-Ky., John Spratt, D-S.C., and Nick Rahall, D-W.V., introduced a companion bill, H.R. 503, the same day with 61 original cosponsors. The measure received tremendous bipartisan support in the 109th Congress, winning a vote of 263 to 146 in the House. It stalled in the Senate in late 2006, however, and was not brought up for a vote before Congress adjourned, even though a similar effort had been overwhelmingly approved by the Senate in 2005.

Help Save Horses Right Out of the Gate!
Contact your lawmakers in Washington today, and ask them to put an end to the slaughter of American horses for human consumption overseas. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, 100,800 American horses were slaughtered in three foreign-owned slaughter houses in 2006. Opponents of the slaughter ban argue that the practice constitutes a humane way to kill old animals, but investigations by The HSUS show cruelty and abuse throughout the process. Horses are sometimes transported for days without food, water or rest, and once on the killing floor they can be subjected to multiple blows by a bolt gun to the brain before being rendered unconscious. The HSUS also recently documented barbaric treatment of American horses at a slaughter plant in Juarez, Mexico, where the animals were stabbed with short knives, leaving them paralyzed and unable to breathe but still sensible to pain as they were hoisted up by a chain to have their throats slit.

At least 33,400 horses were exported to Mexico, Canada and Japan for slaughter in 2006, according to the USDA. In addition to banning the slaughter of horses for human consumption, the American Horse Slaughter Prevention Act would ban the export of horses for slaughter in other countries.

SOURCE:

http://hsus.org

Too Blanket or Not to Blanket... How to Decide

2007-01-10T16:59:00.000-06:00

Okay, there are those who whip out the blanket arsenal at the first sight of cooler weather, some who only blanket when really cold, and some who swear by never blanketing a horse. So when and how do you decide to blanket a horse? Click here to read an interesting article with tips about when to blanket horses in Winter.

Source: EquiSearch.com

Goodbye 2006, Hello 2007! A Personal Look Back

2007-01-03T09:32:00.000-06:00

I can't believe 2006 has come and gone. This was quite an exciting and busy year for me. It began with a new horse, Gage, for my baby sister Lauren. We have both had a BLAST with our big baby. Geez, we've come a long way in his and our training since this time last year! All three of us began Dressage training- something that I've never "officially" done in all of my years of riding. What an eye-opening experience this has been! With Gage being so green, and with Lauren and myself learning Dressage for the first time, I've realized how much there will always be to learn with horses no matter how long you've been riding! Yes, you can teach an old dog new tricks... I'm the proof!

Lauren and I are looking forward to our continued training with Gage and are super excited to begin his jump training soon. Hopefully by this time next year, we'll all be able to canter around jumper type courses with ease. We both plan to continue our Dressage training, and perhaps this year you'll catch a glimpse of us at our first Dressage/Event/Jumper shows in the Memphis area with Gage!

I also began another new horse venture this year- something I've always wanted to do, Driving. What fun this has been! I went to my very first rated carriage shows with my buddy, Domino, a 38" macho miniature! We did well and had great fun at the shows we attended (The Cannon Classic in Woodbury, TN and Nashoba Classic in Germantown, TN) placing out of the Novice divisions. I look forward to continuing my driving adventures with Domino this year and hope to focus our efforts onto the CDE realm of driving- can't wait! I feel the need for speed!!!

This year also helped me to realize one of my life dreams and goals with horses. I want to one day have my own horse rescue farm- dedicated to OTTB's. This year, it really hit home with me how many horses there are out there that need good, caring, loving homes and kind-hearted owners. My eyes were open to horse neglect and the attrocities of slaugter, and it has changed my life forever. I am passionately dedicated towards making a difference for all those beloved horses out there who've been forgotten and discarded. I've been truly blessed in my lifetime to have encountered and learned invaluable life lessons from so many special horses. Starting with my first horse, Sam, a discarded OTTB who truly blessed my life for seventeen years. Looking back, I now realize that his time with me is the driving motivation behind my passion to help horses like himself, who deserve a second chance to shine. Hopefully by this time next year, I'll be a little closer to making my dream of helping horses in need a reality.

In summary of this past year: I got a new green horse, started two new disciplines- dressage and driving, attended my first driving shows, made some fabulous new "horsey" friends, rode some walking horses for the first time, became an Aunt for the first time, and bought myself my first home. Whew, it's been a busy year. Looking forward to 2007!

Happy One Year Anniversary Gage and Lauren!

2007-01-02T14:49:00.000-06:00

Happy One Year Anniversary Gage and Lauren!

This year has flown by, and it's hard to believe that on January 2, 2006, I officially bought Gage for my youngest sister Lauren. I delivered on my promise to buy her an AWESOME horse one day.... now she's got to deliver on buying me my dream horse farm estate ;)

Big baby will officially turn a whopping 6 on January 12. Lauren and Gage have come a long way this year together and we will begin hard core jump training soon.

EVH-1 Outbreak Update: Scary times for Horse Owners in South Florida

2006-12-19T16:49:00.000-06:00

These are scary times for the horse community due to confirmed outbreaks of the deadly and highly contagious equine herpes virus at prestigious shows in Wellington, FL- cancelling major shows. All are waiting on pins and needles hoping for the best: a major horse health crisis hopefully avoided. Health officials are "optimistic" that since this virus was detected early with quarantine procedures quickly enforced that the worst has been avoided despite the loss of several beloved horses and at least 15 confirmed cases displaying neurological symptoms.

State Veterinarians held an informational press conference last weekend outlining the facts of this outbreak, and discussed biosecurity precautions for those in the affected areas of Wellington, FL. Officials asked that people NOT ship horses to or from Wellington for seven days.

The rumormill is in overdrive. One rumor circulating is that an infected horse was present at a recent St. Louis Hunter Jumper Show. Several horses at this show were voluntarily quarantined on the show grounds in an isolated barn on the complex- far away from other barns. Luckily, this proved to be a false alarm and thus far, no horses at this show according to show officials and St. Louis Veterinarian's were exposed to EVH-1 or at risk of developing it.

A farm near Knoxville, TN; however, is under voluntary quarantine. A horse from a New York quarantine facility tested positive for EVH-1 and died on it's way to California. This horse had a lay-over at the Knoxville facility on it's way to California. Reports are unclear as to if the California horse died en route to California or at a facility in California. Unfortunatley, there has been no official statement as to any California location quarantines. Ther has been no outbreak of EVH-1 thankfully at the Knoxville, TN farm.

The racing community is now holding it's breath too. A racehorse in Ocala, FL has EVH-1. It was in contact with an infected horse at a Veterinary clinic in Wellington prior to shipping to Ocala, where it became ill. This racehorse belongs to Tuxedo Farms. The farm is under quarantine, and the horse is in isolation. Tracks in and around Ocala, as well as the Tampa area are taking action to prevent more cases. Many are not allowing incoming horses into track facilities currently. For the latest updates and news feeds regarding this viral outbreak, please visit: http://www.topix.net

Wellington, FL EHV-1 Outbreak Alert

2006-12-15T09:30:00.000-06:00

An outbreak of EHV- Equine Herpes Virus has shut down major horse shows in Wellington, FL for the next several weeks. Two horses have reportedly died. One of which being Debbie Stephen's Cosequin's CEO.

Three farms in Wellington's Grand Prix Village are in lockdown, and many surrounding stables have elected a self-imposed quarantine to help prevent the spread of this deadly and highly contagious airborn virus, which can cause abortion, respitory disease, and paralysis. This disease can survive 14-15 days in the environment and is spread via the respitory tract, aborted fetuses, membranes, and fluid.

This disease is reported to have orginated fom infected horses imported from Europe that went through a New York facility. One of the horses is recovering in Wellington, another; however, traveled to California and died. Veterinarians are awaiting test results to confirm that the California horse perished from EHV-1. It is quite possible that this virus may have infected horses from Florida to California.

Due to health concerns, the AGA National Championship and the Christmas Festival of Horses have been cancelled.

See below links for the latest information regarding this outbreak:
http://www.horsetalk.co.nz/news/0612/054.shtml
http://www.horsetalk.co.nz/news/0612/054.shtml
http://www.doacs.state.fl.us/ai/Announcements/20061214EquineVirus1.shtml
http://horsesdaily.com/news/health/2006/eav/index.html

Check Out a Memphis Equestrian Superstar in the Making!

2006-12-14T10:04:00.000-06:00

First Things First:

Yet another "girl" to add to the long list of horse addicts in my family!

Who says this 9 month old needs to walk before learning to ride? Introducing our newest family equestrian in the making: Miss Taylor Ann- She's a natural.... I'm envisioning short stirrup extraordinare , Pony Finals Champion, Mclay celebrity, Olympic Superstar.... Okay, so maybe I'm getting a bit carried away. We will actually have to get her walking first, and teach her not to "chew" on the reins...

Rest assured, Great Aunt Ashlee is working hard to ensure that her first word is "PONEEEEE!" Her poor Daddy will be broke!

Do Horses get Jealous? What do You Think?

2006-12-12T14:50:00.000-06:00

So here I go, humanizing horses again. But what I witnessed a few days ago really got me to thinking. Do horses get jealous, or am I just over humanizing them once again?

There is an old mare at the barn where I ride that is spoiled silly everyday by a teenage girl. I swear this old mare loves this girl. She has more patience than Jobe with the kid and will absolutely do anything for her. A few days ago this kid had her mare in the wash rack going through her usual daily spa treatment routine. My sister and I were playing with another new horse in the barn aisle. Riding her up and down the barn aisle by the kid's mare. It wasn’t long before this teenager wanted “in on the action”. As soon as she hopped onto the new horse, her trusty, ole friend had a temper tantrum! She pinned her ears back, flared her nostrils, and stomped her feet repeatedly. She couldn't have cared less while my sister and I were messing around with the new horse. But as soon as HER TEENAGER jumped in- she was livid.

Now, I personally think that I witnessed something kind of special. It was an Ahhhh moment that really emphasized to me the special bond that horses can have with people. I truly think that I witnessed a case of horse jealousy. I told my mom- a life-long horse person- about it, and she told me about a pony that she used to have growing up who took a fancy to her and would also have temper fits when she rode something else. He too was an otherwise quiet, well-mannered pony, but he would would rear, buck, kick, and run around his stall squealing if he saw her paying any other horse attention. Hum, got me thinking… Do we have horses, or do horses have us? I’m kind of inclined to think that horses may very well “choose” us and some may even get jealous?

Horse Bling is in for the Holidays!

2006-12-07T16:41:00.000-06:00

Apparantly, "Horse Bling" is HOT this Holiday season. Okay, I'm certainly not giving fashion advice. Heck, I'm the one who's usually a season or two behind the latest fads, but I'm up for some bling! It's gaudy, it's obnoxious, and I love it!!!

Here's an article compliments of horse tack review about the latest Horsey Holiday Bling craze!

SOURCE: Horse Tack Review

Don't Forget: Today is National Call In Day for Horses!

2006-12-05T09:35:00.000-06:00

Want to help put an end to Horse Slaughter in the United States? Then help out by calling your Senator TODAY, and letting them know you are against horse slaughter!

Urge your Senators to cosponsor S. 1915 and get it to the senate floor for a vote! Please, Please make the call, and urge everyone you know to call their Senators on Dec. 5

If you're not sure what to say here's a tip from the Humane Society:
"I am a constituent and I am calling to ask that the Senator immediately protect our horses from slaughter and cosponsor S. 1915, the American Horse Slaughter Prevention Act. I am very concerned about American horses and I don't want them slaughtered."

Click here to locate your Senator's contact information and make the call!

Brrrr... Cold Weather Tips for Your Horse

2006-12-04T10:49:00.000-06:00

In typical Memphis fashion, the weather has turned from warm and balmy to bone-chilling cold in a matter of days! I don't know about you, but it takes me awhile to get acclimated to colder weather. And about the time I start to get used to it, It warms back up!

Here are some cold weather tips for your horse:

Feed more good, quality, hay to help add some extra "Fuel" for your horse during cold weather. Horses bodies work hard during cold weather burning up more energy to keep warm. Extra food in the form of hay helps tremendously!
To keep water troughs from freezing, place a plastic ball or football in the trough. Of course, your ponies will want to play with the new toy!
Place a mineral or salt block in your horses feed tub. Not only will this slow down fast eaters, but it will provide extra salt encouraging thirst so that your horse will continue to drink enough water when cold. Many get picky in cold weather and don't like to drink frigid water.... Think BRAINFREEZE...
Keep aware of the ground conditions when riding. Freezing conditions can make the ground REALLY hard on your horses toes!
Warm yourself and your horse up slowly, and do lots of stretching. It's easy to pull and strain muscles in cold weather. When we're colder, we tense up. Make sure to take your time and warm up and down those muscles. So that the next morning both you and your horses aren't sore!