The Horse Blog

The Horse | Blackburn Sentenced in Soring Case

2012-01-24T11:27:00.000-08:00

The Horse Blackburn Sentenced in Soring Case
Tennessee horse trainer Paul Blackburn, who was indicted last year in a
high-profile Horse Protection Act (HPA) violation case, will serve probation,
pay a fine, and write a detailed description of soring practices and their
prevalence in the gaited horse community under a sentencing order issued by a
federal judge on Jan. 23. "Soring" is the deliberate injury of a horse's feet
and legs to achieve an exaggerated, high-stepping gait. The HPA prohibits the
practice. Read more...

Horse Rescued from Ditch

2012-01-23T07:53:00.000-08:00

100 horses evacuated from path of blaze - video | Horsetalk.co.nz - International horse news

2012-01-23T07:43:00.000-08:00

100 horses evacuated from path of blaze - video Horsetalk.co.nz - International horse news

About 100 horses were successfully evacuated from the path of a major blaze
which destroyed 26 homes and burnt through 3177 acres in Washoe County, Nevada. Read more...

False assurance cost Beau Jacques his life - police | Horsetalk.co.nz - International horse news

2012-01-23T07:38:00.000-08:00

False assurance cost Beau Jacques his life - police Horsetalk.co.nz - International horse news
It was hoped Beau Jacques would enjoy a long retirement from racing.
Police allege the false promises of Kelsey Lefever cost him his life. Read more...

"Family Actors" TV Spot- War Horse

2012-01-23T07:35:00.001-08:00

Lorenzo with His Horses

2012-01-21T07:02:00.000-08:00

Workin Cow Horse oder Working Horse Cow?

2012-01-20T16:09:00.001-08:00

Your Deworming Questions Answered (By: EQUIMAX)

2012-01-19T07:33:00.000-08:00

Can you tell us a little bit about EQUIMAX products?
EQUIMAX^® horse dewormer contains ivermectin and praziquantel deworming agents. This provides broad spectrum coverage from ivermectin along with tapeworm control from praziquantel. EQUIMAX’s patented formula provides 100% tapeworm control, EQUIMAX is the only combination dewormer approved for all horses and ponies, including foals as young as 4 weeks of age, pregnant and lactating mares and breeding stallions. EQUIMAX is also apple flavored to improve ease of dosing; helping to ensure a full dose is digested. EQUIMAX is covered by a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee. More detailed information and information on other Bimeda products can be found at www.equimaxhorse.com and www.bimedaequine.com

What is the ideal EQUIMAX deworming schedule?

EQUIMAX is typically used a minimum of twice a year - Spring (at the start of grazing season), and Fall (after the first frost), to control bots as well as other parasites and tapeworms. A horse owner’s veterinarian can provide the best information to set a parasite control program for each individual horse. Recommended schedules for horses can vary from region to region and even horse to horse on the same farm.

Is there a difference in effectiveness between EQUIMAX paste and EQUIMAX daily protection?

EQUIMAX does not have a daily dewormer option. EQUIMAX can be used with pyrantel tartrate daily dewormers (like Strongid^® C) twice a year to control parasites. Daily dewormer’s are not labeled for parasites, such as bots and tapeworms.

What is the best way to reduce parasite resistance when using EQUIMAX?

There are ways to help reduce conditions that contribute to the growth of parasite resistance. Using effective dewormers, at appropriate times is one. Your veterinarian can help determine the deworming program that best fits your horse’s needs, so you are deworming when needed, with the proper dewormers, for each horse. Additionally making sure you use the proper dose for the weight of the horse is important, as well as making sure they consume all dewormer administered. Under dosing is a factor in parasite resistance. EQUIMAX can help with both. EQUIMAX’s EZE-Grip syringe deworms up to 1,320 lb per syringe. EQUIMAX is also apple flavored to help with ease of dosing and acceptance.

Are there any precautions horse owners should take before administering EQUIMAX deworming products?

EQUIMAX is the only combination dewormer approved for all horses and ponies, including foals as young as 4 weeks of age, pregnant and lactating mares and breeding stallions. Work with your veterinarian to develop the best deworming plan for each horse. If you have a sick or debilitated horses talk to your vet before administering any type of dewormer. It is also important to keep any ivermectin or moxidectin dewormers away from dogs as the products even in very small amounts can be fatal.

Questions from The Horse Blog readers:

How often exactly are you supposed to deworm?

Typically 4 to 6 times a year depending on your horses variables – these include: age, contact with other horses, amount of time on pasture and the pasture management, number of eggs shed, etc. Your veterinarian can help determine the ideal frequency for your horse.

Can you over deworm a horse?

You can deworm a horse more often than is needed. See above question. For individual dosing follow the manufacture’s direction, locking in the proper weight for your horse.

I have my horses in a boarding facility and while I follow a rotating schedule every 6-8 weeks, I also have my vet tube worm the horses every 6 months. Is this a balanced preventative or is it too much?

With today’s paste dewormers, a 6 – 8 week schedule should not require the addition of tube worming, however your veterinarian is the best equipped to determine what your horse needs.

What about this new trend to only deworm if needed only (after fecal analysis)?

Like antibiotics limiting the use of dewormers to using when needed and administering the full dose is important to aid in reducing parasite resistance. Fecal tests show what egg levels a horse is shedding, this can help determine how often a horse should be dewormed. Example: Horses shedding 300 – 500 epg are generally classified as medium shedders and a schedule of 4 or more times a year may be recommended. Likewise, low shedders below 150 epg can possibly be dewormed less often. Your veterinarian can help you determine what your horse’s fecal counts mean to your program. Fecal tests are also conducted a few weeks after deworming to determine how effective a given dewormer is performing. Knowing if the product is working or not can help ensure you are using effective dewormers for your horses as well as helping to prevent resistance growth by stopping the continued use of dewormers that are not working. It is important to note, fecal tests are only 3% accurate for tapeworms; so a fecal test can provide valuable information but should not be used to determine if a horse has been exposed to tapeworms or needs tapeworm treatment.

All trademarks belong to their respective owners. For more information on EQUIMAX dewormer and complete label details visit www.equimaxhorse.com

A Look Inside The Game of Contact

2012-01-18T16:06:00.000-08:00

NCHA 2:30 #67 - Congrats Katy

2012-01-18T16:02:00.001-08:00

The Horse | Reward Offered in Georgia Horse Slashing Case

2012-01-18T08:33:00.000-08:00

The Horse Reward Offered in Georgia Horse Slashing Case
Law enforcement authorities in Georgia are hoping the offer of a $25,000 cash
reward will lead them to whoever is responsible for killing a horse and injuring
another residing on a Thomas County farm last month. Read more...

Hide and seek - How to identify quality leather | Horsetalk - equestrian feature articles

2012-01-18T08:31:00.000-08:00

Hide and seek - How to identify quality leather Horsetalk - equestrian feature articles
What is full-grain leather? What does currying and stuffing mean? Neil
Clarkson investigates the ancient art of leather-making, and explains how to
tell the good stuff from the bad when choosing tack. Read more...

Texas Task Force 1 South Texas Horse Rescue

2012-01-18T08:19:00.000-08:00

Horse Rescue

2012-01-17T15:13:00.001-08:00

The Horse | Tennessee Trailer Rollover Accident Probed

2012-01-17T15:07:00.000-08:00

The Horse Tennessee Trailer Rollover Accident Probed
Law enforcement authorities in Tennessee are investigating a tractor-trailer
rollover accident that claimed the lives of three horses. Read more...

Horse Training with John Lyons - Pull Back Part 1

2012-01-17T15:04:00.000-08:00

Horse Reunited with Owner after Missing for Nearly 7 Years

2012-01-17T12:03:00.001-08:00

Anything for Horse and Rider

2012-01-15T16:16:00.000-08:00

By: Jill | Interested in writing a post for The Horse Blog? E-mail Us Here

It happened three weeks ago, an autistic child spoke. She sang in a shrill quiet voice “Hi” to her therapy pony, Quest. It was the first time in her eight years of life that she has ever made an intelligible sound. Her language usually consists of shrieks and shrills, flapping of her hands, pinches and bites, but today, she spoke and all present heard her voice.

This miracle and many more have happened at Raise Your Dreams Farm. Children gain mobility, balance, self-esteem, and communication skills at their Equine Therapy; it is the horses that inspire them to try to reach new heights.

Sadly, in New Jersey, 1 in 94 children will be classified as being on the spectrum disorder of Autism. When hearing the news some parents, feel overwhelmed, fearful, tired, and frustrated. But for many of those parents who live in Salem County, NJ they receive great support from the Salem County Center for Autism. This organization pays for the services and therapies, including Equine Therapy at Raise Your Dreams Farm.

As the owner of Raise Your Dreams Farm and Anything for Horse and Rider, I have witnessed the miracle of the horse. Horses are rhythmic and enable the children to find harmony. I have so many children here that speak for the first time, walk for the first time, and it is because of the horse. Anything for Horse and Rider was formed to help offset the cost of providing therapy to these very special children.

Anything for Horse and Rider offers horse and equipment classifieds, service listings and a news and events listing. Stop by and become apart of the Anything for Horse and Rider miracle network!

Niki Moran Trick Riding

2012-01-15T11:36:00.000-08:00

The Horse | Biosecurity Can Help Prevent Spread of EHV-1 Infections

2012-01-14T15:21:00.000-08:00

The Horse Biosecurity Can Help Prevent Spread of EHV-1 Infections
The neurologic form of the equine herpesevirus-1 (EHV) called equine herpesvirus
myeloencephalopathy (EHM), a potentially fatal disease of horses, can largely be
avoided by instituting and maintaining standard biosecurity measures, which are
readily available from the American Association of Equine Practitioners. Read more...

Miracle survivor proves again he is a champion | Horsetalk.co.nz - International horse news

2012-01-14T15:16:00.000-08:00

Miracle survivor proves again he is a champion Horsetalk.co.nz - International horse news
Thoroughbred eventer Neville Bardos was moments away from death, having been
caught for 45 minutes in a blazing barn in which six horses were to die. Read more...

Kelle Earnheart and Dual With Style.mov

2012-01-14T14:46:00.001-08:00

Where Does A Horse's Value Lie

2012-01-10T09:41:00.000-08:00

As horse enthusiasts, our love for our horses makes them priceless in our eyes. But when it comes time to sell a horse, the true market value of the horse must be determined.

There are many factors to consider when selling a horse. First, one must consider the horse itself. The horse's bloodlines, athletic ability, conformation, color (for color breeds), temperament, age and health all add or subtract from the horse's value.

After those aspects of the horse have been considered, one must consider training, how seasoned the horse is and the horse's accomplishments. For non competitive horses, sellers must still consider training and what the horse is able to offer a potential buyer.

But what aspect of the horse brings the most value to the animal? Is it its training? Or its temperament? Maybe its bloodlines?

In your opinion, what contributes the most to a horse's value?

The Horse | Missouri Court Rules in Non-Veterinarian Dentist Case

2012-01-09T12:16:00.000-08:00

The Horse Missouri Court Rules in Non-Veterinarian Dentist Case
A Missouri Circuit Court judge sided with veterinarians in that state last month
when he ruled that non-veterinarian equine dentist Brooke Gray could not perform
tooth-floating services for pay. Read more...

Can Horse Abuse and Neglect Be Prevented

2012-01-09T11:39:00.000-08:00

Over the past few weeks we have been talking about horse slaughter and horse abuse/ neglect on our Facebook page and Twitter, asking you readers what your thoughts are on the matters. Although those are two different topics they seem to get intertwined. Some see slaughter as abuse while other see it as a preventative for abuse and neglect.

Many readers have expressed their concerns for neglected horses and the increase of neglect (in the US) seen since the ban of slaughter houses in the US, and since the economic downturn. The argument is, what should be done to protect horses from neglect and prevent neglect from happening in the first place?

A discussion like this has many sides to it and we want to hear yours.

In your opinion, what is the most effective way to prevent horse abuse and neglect? Do you believe slaughter houses offer a solution for the matter or do they fall in the category of abuse?

Jae Bar One Time and Michael Cooper

2012-01-09T11:03:00.001-08:00

Limited range, low numbers cost Przewalski lives - study | Horsetalk.co.nz - International horse news

2012-01-07T11:16:00.000-08:00

Limited range, low numbers cost Przewalski lives - study Horsetalk.co.nz - International horse news
The small size and limited range of the present-day Przewalski's horse
population in Mongolia cost crucial animals during the severe winter, according
to researchers. Read more...

Inside Reining bloopers 2010/2011

2012-01-07T09:01:00.000-08:00

Olympic Show Jumping Gold Medalist, McLain Ward

2012-01-05T08:14:00.000-08:00

The Horse | Former Olympian Facing Animal Cruelty Charges

2011-12-29T13:00:00.000-08:00

The Horse Former Olympian Facing Animal Cruelty Charges
Former U.S. Olympic equestrian team member Gwen Stockebrand has been charged
with felony animal cruelty in connection with the alleged maltreatment of a
28-year-old Thoroughbred mare. Stockebrand competed in dressage at the 1980 and
1984 Olympic Games. In 2010 she was named to the Sonoma County, Calif., Equus
Hall of Fame in recognition of her contributions to the advancement of the
dressage discipline. Read more...

The Dogs of Proud Spirit (Book Review By: Carol M. Upton)

2011-12-21T11:01:00.000-08:00

The Dogs of Proud Spirit

Melanie Sue Bowles

Pineapple Press, Inc.

Hard Cover, 2010, $18.95

ISBN: 978-1-56164-478-0

Available at Amazon or www.horsesofproudspirit.org

Sale proceeds help care for the rescued

horses at Proud Spirit

Reviewed by Carol M. Upton

And so, this was our life: challenged, but always enriched by the animals who somehow found their way to the gates of our sanctuary and into our hearts. Encompassed by our love, they loved us back. ~ Melanie Sue Bowles

There is no stronger seasonal message for animal-lovers than that found in The Dogs of Proud Spirit.

Proud Spirit sanctuary began with one horse in need on five acres in rural Florida and evolved into a 320-acre facility in Arkansas, where nearly 200 horses have come to live out their lives in peace. Melanie and Jim Bowles are the founders of Proud Spirit and this book offers incredible stories about the dogs that have also found their forever home at the sanctuary.

From Molly, the skinny hound running loose in a parking lot, to Gunner, the Corgi mix languishing in a shelter, to Dusty, the Rottweiler cross who took them past their “two dogs is enough” rule, Jim and Melanie kept adding to their pack. As happens to many with big hearts, strays continued to show up in their lives. The dogs fit in well, developed various ‘jobs’ for themselves, and got along with the horses.

Like all rescued animals, these dogs were mixed challenges and blessings. Molly and Gunner narrowly escaped death by alligators. Dusty didn’t like the existing pack and even showed initial aggression toward sanctuary visitors. Then, there were the infant hounds, dumped in a ditch, who grew into working dogs named Trixie, Trudy and Daisy.

Proud Spirit is one of the most successful, long-lasting sanctuaries for horses in the United States. These animals are not adopted out, but live their lives surrounded by compassion and kindness in an ideal environment. The stories in this book feed the reader’s soul and inspire new faith in the process of adopting and rescuing animals in need.

Melanie and Jim Bowles currently live with 72 horses, 12 dogs and one talkative barn cat. Melanie is also the author of The Horses of Proud Spirit and Hoofprints: More Stories from Proud Spirit. Visit Proud Spirit at: www.horsesofproudspirit.org

The Complete Guide to Farrier Certification

2011-12-21T10:28:00.000-08:00

By: David | Interested in writing a post for The Horse Blog? E-mail Us Here

Today, there are approximately 3000 farriers in the United States responsible for the hoof care of 6.9 million horses in the U.S., including both commercial and recreational horses. There are three organizations within the United States that offer certifications programs, the American Farriers Association, the Guild of Professional Farriers, and the Brotherhood of Working Farriers. Of these, the American Farriers Association (AFA) is the largest and most recognized among horse owners.

Established in 1981, the AFA certification program consists of three different categories: Classification, Certification, and Endorsement. The certification process includes a written examination on hoof anatomy, equine physiology, and biomechanics as well as a practical demonstration. AFA Farrier Classification provides an opportunity for entry-level farriers to demonstrate a basic understanding of farriery through written and practical testing. There are three levels of certification, Certified Farrier (CF), Certified Tradesman Farrier (CTF), and Certified Journeyman Farrier (CJF). The AFA also offers two endorsements for Certified Journeyman Farriers, the Therapeutic Endorsement (TE) and the Educators Endorsement (CJF EE).

Certified Farrier

In order to qualify for the Certified Farrier exam, participants are required to have one year of experience in horseshoeing. The participate must successfully complete a written exam to demonstrate knowledge of bones and joints, hoof structure, tendons and ligaments, conformation and gaits, blood circulation, pathology, and horseshoes. The practical exam requires that the participant select the appropriate type of shoe for the horse and the shoe either the front or the hind feet within an hour. Finally, the participant must present a horseshoe display that demonstrates the ability to make or modify shoes.

Certified Tradesman Farrier

The Certified Tradesman Farrier exam is the 2nd level of AFA Certification. In order to take the exam, farriers are required to have at least two years of experience and successfully passed the Certified Farrier exam. The first portion of the exam consist of a written assessment in which the farrier must demonstrate a more specific knowledge (including medical terminology) of bones, cartilage, and joints, tendons and ligaments, blood circulation, hoof structure, pathology, horse shoes, and gaits and movements. The second portion of the exam is a practical demonstration, which requires the farrier to shoe four hooves with front forged toe clips and hind forged quarter clips within 1½ hours. The farrier then must forge a ¾ fullered open heel shoe within 30 minutes.

Certified Journeyman Farrier

The Certified Journeyman Farrier exam is the 3rd level of AFA Certification. Participants are required to have two years of horseshoeing experience and successfully passed the Certified Farrier exam. The first part of the exam consist of a written assessment in which the farrier must demonstrate a specific knowledge of bones, cartilage, and joints, tendons and ligaments, blood circulation, hoof structure, pathology, horse shoes, and gaits and movements. The practical demonstration requires that the farrier use handmade shoes to shoe the two front feet with toe-clips and the hind feet with quarter clips within two hours. The farrier then must forge a bar shoe to a specific pattern within 35 minutes.

The Brotherhood of Working Farriers

The mission of the BOWF is to provide horse owners with professional, intelligent, and accurate information on sound shoeing by professional farriers. They promote certification for farriers and strongly advise horse owners to seek out the services of certified farriers. The BOWF has four levels of certification.

Apprentice II Farrier

Participants must have graduated from a 6 week course in horseshoeing prior to the exam. The participate must successfully complete a written exam to demonstrate knowledge of bones and joints from the knee down, parts of the hoof, and equine movement. There is a 60 minute time limit on the written exam. The practical exam requires that the participant shoe one front and one hind leg with a keg shoe (pre-made shoe) and ensure that it is set at the natural angle, toe length, and ground surface level. The time limit for the practical exam is 90 minutes. Finally, the participant must forge four modifications to a horseshoe.

Journeyman I

In order to qualify for the Certified Farrier exam, participants are required to have one year of experience in horseshoeing. The participate must successfully complete a written exam to demonstrate knowledge of bones and joints in the lower and upper legs, all parts of the hoof , tendons, and ligaments, general shoeing practices, movement problems, and gaits. There is a 60 minute time limit. The practical exam is similar to the Apprentice I Farrier exam except that the participant must forge a basic front pattern and hind pattern shoe, modify a keg shoe with a square toe, toe clip, trailer, and egg bar.

Journeyman II

Participants must have three years or experience as a farrier to qualify for the exam. The participants must successfully complete a written exam to demonstrate knowledge of all bones and joints in the legs, location and function of tendons and ligaments, hoof structures, and gait analysis. There is a 120 minute time limit. The practical exam requires that the participant shoe all four feet with handmade shoes, forge a handmade bar shoe, and demonstrate a knowledge of all forging tools and techniques.

Master Farrier

The Master Farrier Certification is the highest level of certification offered by the BOWF. Participants are required to have 7 years of experience with a Journeyman II certification or 15 years experience and a passing Journeyman II score. The participants must successfully complete a written exam to demonstrate knowledge of all bones and joints in the legs, location and function of tendons and ligaments, hoof structures, and gait analysis. There is a 120 minute time limit. The practical exam requires that the participant draw a horse from a pen of assorted breeds, and shoe all four feet with handmade shoes following the specifications provided by the tester. There is a 4.5 hour time limit. The final requirement is that the participant must forge the same shoes as in the Journeyman II exam, but alongside the tester. There is no time limit, but the quality of the forged items must be of equal or greater in quality to the tester.

The Guild of Professional Farriers

The Guild of Professional Farriers' sole mission is to improve the farrier profession through continued education, documentation of the science, independent testing and ensuring members continue to improve their trade and art through practice and education.

Registered Farrier

The Register Farrier exam is the first level of certification by the Guild of Professional Farriers. . The exam is only open to full-time farriers with two years of experience. The exam, which consists of a written test and a practical demonstration, is designed to test the skills and knowledge that should be standard with a full-time farrier. The written exam is intended to test the participants knowledge in maintaining sound horses and modifications needed to correct conformation or gait faults. The written test has a time limit of three hours. For the practical demonstration, the participants must complete shoe board ahead of time with the following modifications; toe and quarter clips, square toe, rolled toe, rocker toe, hind shoe extended heels, shoe to raise hoof angle, shoe with pad, and two types of traction devices, trailer, and a punched nail hole. Finally, the participant must do a "Standardized Intake Protocol" and correctly shoe a horse.

Register Journeyman Farrier

The Register Journeyman Farrier exam is the 2nd level of certification by the Guild of Professional Farriers. The exam is only open to full-time farriers with four years of experience. The exam, which consists of a written test and a practical demonstration, is designed to test the skills and knowledge that should be standard for a full-time farrier. The written exam is intended to test the participants knowledge in diagnosing lameness. The written test has a time limit of three hours. For the practical demonstration, the participants must complete a shoe board ahead of time with the following modifications; 4 fullered shoe w with quarter clips, straight bar, egg bar, heart bar shoe, wedged shoe. blocked heel shoe, toe-weighted shoe, patten shoe, side-weighted shoe, fish tail shoe, mushroom shoe, calk heal shoe, rim shoe, and some device to immobilize the hoof wall. The last segment of the exam is the live shoeing in which the participant must do a "Standardized Intake Protocol" and correctly shoe a horse.

Splint Boots, Bell Boots and Polo Wraps

2011-12-16T14:31:00.001-08:00

AP Indy Promo

2011-12-16T14:28:00.000-08:00

Horse at the Corner Post: Our Divine Journey (Book Review By: Carol M. Upton)

2011-12-13T10:20:00.000-08:00

Horse at the Corner Post:

Our Divine Journey

By Denise Lee Branco

Strolling Hills Publishing

Soft Cover, 2010, $17.95

ISBN: 879-0-9845888-0-0

Available at www.horseatthecornerpost.com

Reviewed by Carol M. Upton

I have been blessed with many animal friends in my life, but you were unique. I had a connection with you since your wobbly foal legs held you up and until your aged arthritic legs no longer allowed you to stand. ~ Denise Lee Branco

In the award-winning Horse at the Corner Post, Denise Lee Branco writes straight from the heart about her deep, lifelong connection to her quarter horse, Freedom.

At an outsider’s first glance, there may have been nothing special about this particular foal. Yet, Branco and Freedom connected almost immediately, soul to soul. Sharing hugs, playing racing games alongside the fence, and winning 2^nd Place in a Kindergarten Western Pleasure Class, the two youngsters formed a powerful relationship. All that changed as Branco neared college age and her uncle took a fancy to the horse. Thinking Freedom would have a great temporary home, Branco let him go, only to discover some years later that he had been sold.

What ultimately takes place is an astonishing tribute, not only to the profound relationship between a girl and her horse, but also to the deep support of a family that understood this bond and cared enough to see it through.

The strength of this book lies in Branco’s skilled and honest storytelling. The reader is there every step of the way, reminded of the animals that may have graced their own life.

Branco’s hope in writing about Freedom is that it will encourage animal adoption. This inspired family reading achieves all of that and more. It will certainly make a memorable holiday gift for any horse lover in your life.

Denise Lee Branco spent her childhood on a California ranch, befriending all the furry and feathered residents there. From reading horse books to competing in western shows and gymkhanas, Denise has always felt horses are a part of her identity. Visit her at:

http://www.horseatthecornerpost.com/

False Advertising In The Horse World

2011-12-06T16:09:00.000-08:00

By: Jessica | Interested in writing a post for The Horse Blog? E-mail Us Here

False advertising in the world of commercial sales is persuading people into transactions that they might otherwise avoid, or in other words, deceiving or misleading the buyer.

So what constitutes false advertising in the equine world?

Horses injure themselves, just as we do, and a sound horse one day could be a lame horse the next day. Traumatizing accidents can change the way a horse reacts to situations, competes and behaves in general. Lets just say, horses are ever changing.

But what about the horses that are listed as world champion quality and clearly aren't? Or the horses who have had life long illnesses that are never mentioned? How about horses who are listed as "safe for anyone" but are even a danger to themselves? And lets not forget the horses who are registered, but ooops, the owners can't find the papers.

How do you feel about false advertising when it comes to selling horses?

2011 World Finals Open 4th Go Round

2011-12-04T20:28:00.000-08:00

US Horse Slaughter Ban Lifted

2011-11-29T15:16:00.000-08:00

By: Whitney Bryson

Because of the economic downturn, the ban of horse slaughter in the U.S. has been lifted as reported by The Oklahoman. The bill was signed by Pres. Obama on November 18th.

The slaughter ban that had been in effect since 2006 was put in place in response American revulsion towards eating horse meat.

Funding for horse slaughter inspections has been dropped from the spending bill resulting in this ban being lifted. Federal reports also showed that the prohibition had unintended negative consequences.

A report from the General Accounting Office says that the welfare of horses has declined since 2007. Because of the ban, there was a rise of abandoned horses and more cases of abuse and neglect.

Price decreases and a jump in horse exports for overseas slaughter are also consequences of the ban. Because of a demand for horse meat outside of the U.S., horses are hauled and shipped over long distances in less humane conditions. Because the USDA has no jurisdiction outside the U.S., conditions in such international slaughter plants is unknown.

Although the extent of the decline in equine welfare is unknown, Colorado alone reports a 60 percent increase in abuse and neglect. Approximately one percent of Americas 9 million horses will be slaughtered each year with this change and with the reopening of the plants.

Horse Hit and Killed In Fergus Falls, Minnesota

2011-11-29T12:21:00.000-08:00

By: Whitney Bryson

The Fergus Falls Journal in Fergus Falls, Minnesota reports that a horse has been hit and killed by a truck traveling northbound near a County Highway 24 intersection. The horse was hit on 150th Avenue, between Rothsay and Erhard on Monday morning at around 6:30 a.m.

The driver of the 1989 pickup truck was 55 year old Craig Richard Peter as reported by law enforcement. Mr. Peter says that the black horse ran out in front of him and because it was still dark out he did not see him until it was too late. The horse was killed and Peter's truck was totaled.

A second horse who also ran into the road was not hurt. Citations have not been given at this time. The county sheriff's office will decide whether citations will be given after further investigation.

Aiken County Hunter Charged with Animal Cruelty

2011-11-29T10:15:00.000-08:00

By: Whitney Bryson

After shooting a horse, an Aiken County hunter has been charged with animal cruelty, say the authorities. The man says he was shooting at a buck from a nearby tree stand when the bullet hit the horse instead.

The 7-year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding did not die instantly, but had to be euthanized Saturday morning due to the extent of its wounds sustained around 6:30a.m. that morning.

Ballistics tests will determine whether the bullet that killed the horse was from Samuel Stewart's gun. Those tests are currently being conducted.

Is Free Really Free

2011-11-27T18:11:00.000-08:00

By: James | Interested in writing a post for The Horse Blog? E-mail Us Here

When I was a kid the word free was music to my ears. Free candy, free toys, free ice-cream, free anything! Why pass up a chance to get something for free, right?

Well, in the adult world free it's exactly free is it? One month of free rent (with a one year lease), buy one get one free, a free gift with your purchase. Free comes with a cost.

I was scouring the web yesterday, looking at equine classifieds when I found the "Free Horses" tab. They ranged from elderly horses needing a loving home to yearlings and everything in between.

A free horse would have been a God send when I was a teenage boy. But again, free isn't really free. The big question is why is the owner giving this horse away? Has the economy taken a toll on the owner? Are they no longer physically able to take good care of the animal? Is the horse too rambunctious, too old, too burned out or too dangerous?

And then of course the next question is, what vet bills will this horse rack up because of an undisclosed health issue? Does it have ulcers, worms, arthritis or cancer?

I must say, I would probably shy away from a free horse, but maybe I'm just a stubborn skeptic. Tell me... Have any of you owned a free horse? Was it a good or bad experience?

Churchill Downs: Clark has championship implications

2011-11-25T10:03:00.000-08:00

Churchill Downs: Clark has championship implications
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – Not many American stakes have been run continuously since 1875. The Clark Handicap is one of those proud and few. Read more...

Blue Collar Tag - Shawn Flarida - Bevilacqua Soc. Agr. ARL

2011-11-25T09:58:00.001-08:00

Blue Collar Tag - Shawn Flarida - Bevilacqua Soc. Agr. ARL from NRHA on Vimeo.

The Horse | Saddle Up Safely Wins Safety Award

2011-11-24T21:32:00.000-08:00

The Horse Saddle Up Safely Wins Safety Award
The Certified Horsemanship Association recently recognized Saddle Up Safely, a collaboration of more than 40 medical and equine organizations led by the University of Kentucky (UK) College of Agriculture Equine Initiative and UK HealthCare, with its 2011 Partnership in Safety Award. Read more...

The Horse | South Carolina Horse Owner Sought

2011-11-24T21:29:00.000-08:00

The Horse South Carolina Horse Owner Sought
Animal welfare authorities in Spartanburg County, S.C., are seeking the owner of a horse found standing unattended on a street near Duncan earlier this week. Read more...

Exmoor ponies considered for council nature reserve | Horsetalk.co.nz

2011-11-24T21:27:00.000-08:00

Exmoor ponies considered for council nature reserve Horsetalk.co.nz
A local council in England is looking to pony up to cut maintenance costs on one of its nature reserves. Read more...

Worth Noting with the Mig - Mucho Macho Man

2011-11-24T21:24:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving from the Big A!

2011-11-24T13:00:00.000-08:00

NCHA 2:30 #61

2011-11-23T15:49:00.000-08:00

The Horse | Winter Driving Tips for Horse Owners

2011-11-23T15:10:00.000-08:00

The Horse Winter Driving Tips for Horse Owners
With the change of seasons, USRider--the national provider of roadside emergency assistance for equestrians--reminds those who travel with horses to be careful when traveling and invest time doing routine preventive trailer maintenance to enhance their travel safety. Read more...

More salvoes fly over New York carriage horse trade | Horsetalk.co.nz

2011-11-22T10:11:00.000-08:00

More salvoes fly over New York carriage horse trade Horsetalk.co.nz
The battle over New York's carriage-horse industry has turned into trench warfare, with salvoes flying in all directions. Read more...

Trailer Loading Mishaps

2011-11-21T15:53:00.000-08:00

By: Niki | Interested in writing a post for The Horse Blog? E-mail Us Here

Humbling? Always. Embarrassing? The first time no; the second time yes.

My little Quarter Horse gelding is a trailer loading pro. Thanks to many hours in front of the TV watching, rewinding, watching again, over and over, my warn down John Lyons tapes. He can load forwards, backwards, sideways and I have faith he could do a back flip into a trailer. I’ll be sure to post that on YouTube if it ever happens.

So, when asked to help someone load their horse yesterday, I gladly (and confidently) said yes.
We started with some ground manner exercises to get his mind off the trailer. Then when he was settled down we got to work on the actual loading process.

You know that moment when a horse spins around, darts for the barn and for a second you actually think you can hang on to the lead. Yea, it happened, twice. Let’s face it… there are always a few mishaps when teaching animals new things. Face planting in front of a crowd; not one of my favorites.

The first time I caught myself and brushed it off. The second time I hit the dirt.

After the horse entertained everyone at my expense, we got back on track and happily loaded into the trailer, hassle free. And off he went.

Now, please tell me… I can’t be the only one who has embarrassing moments like this. Do share!

Enlglish Block Promo 12/1

2011-11-21T11:31:00.000-08:00

When Do They Start To Lose Value

2011-11-20T18:49:00.000-08:00

By: James | Interested in writing a post for The Horse Blog? E-Mail Us Here

The other day I came across an online ad for a multiple all around champion quarter horse gelding with over 350 points to his name. The ad described him as bombproof, child safe, seasoned and sound. A trail and western pleasure video linked to the ad showed he was a well broke quality show horse. As for his list price, they were asking $30,000.

So why did this ad catch my eye? He was a 16 yrs old.

Now, I have friends who have casually shown their horses well into their early twenties so maybe 16 isn’t such a big deal. But we’re talking AQHA shows, an all around horse and $30,000.

All around breed show horses have a big job. They compete against quality horses in a number of different classes. This high demand showing not only wears on a horse physically but mentally.

No matter how experienced and sound he is, he’s getting up there in age. How much longer can he be expected to perform at this level and be worth $30,000?

At what age does a healthy, fit, quality show horse start to lose its value?

The Horse | Not Guilty Plea Entered in Horse Dragging Case

2011-11-20T15:31:00.000-08:00

The Horse Not Guilty Plea Entered in Horse Dragging Case
An Oklahoma man accused of animal cruelty after allegedly using an all terrain vehicle to drag his horse down a gravel road has pleaded not guilty to the animal cruelty charges against him. Read more...

Ground Manners A Novel (Book Review By: Carol M. Upton)

2011-11-17T16:05:00.000-08:00

Ground Manners
A Novel
By Cynthia D’Errico
Xlibris
Soft Cover, 2011, $19.99
Hard Cover, 2011, $24.99
ISBN: 978-1-4568-2394-8
Available at: http://www.groundmannersnovel.com/ or on Amazon

Reviewed by Carol M. Upton

Learning that horses were butchered for meat left many people feeling raw and lied to, like suddenly finding out that your neighbour had barbecued your retriever or microwaved your cat. Like so many others, Yanne was clearly unaware that, whether for meat or other reasons, horses were slaughtered at all. ~ Part Three, Chapter Four, p. 116

Ground Manners. A Novel is an innovative synthesis of adventure, romance and animal advocacy. Cynthia D’Errico has produced a compelling tale based on true stories about Canada’s horse slaughter industry, the dangers of continuing to ignore coastline erosion, and which features an especially intriguing thread on how le Canadien became both Quebec’s heritage breed and the National Horse of Canada.

Through the thoughts of Ausencia, a slaughter-bound polo horse, the opening pages introduce us to the horse refuge run by animal communicator Skye Spahro and her daughter on Isle-Saint-Jean- Baptiste. The Institute of Nature Communications, like many horse rescues across the country, is dedicated to the care and rehoming of abused horses, including the rescue of those slated for slaughter.

The horses narrate a good part of the story as D’Errico performs skillful shifts from the human to the animal point of view. These shifts are reminiscent of those in other classics like Babe and Black Beauty, with that same brilliant seamlessness that keeps the reader fully engaged. The character of each horse is carefully delineated so that when Ulric, the eternally calm Belgian draft says: “I don’t like the look of things, Tessa,” his ominous tone ushers the reader into the darkness of the book’s last half.

The themes in this book require the reader to confront the moral dilemmas often present in horse ownership and attempt to expand the reader’s vision of horses. Yet the darkness is never overdone.

The storyline is simultaneously about love, heroes and hope for lasting change in our treatment of animals and the planet – indeed of the very ground we walk on. D’Errico’s writing style intimately involves readers in the lives of her characters, human and animal, in such a way that their world becomes difficult to leave as the book nears its gripping finale.

Ground Manners is the tale that horse lovers have waited for, but also essential reading for anyone intent on creating a more harmonious relationship with our planet. It will definitely raise public consciousness and is sure to spark debate.

A former ESL teacher and business editor, Cynthia has always felt a special empathy toward horses with whom she was raised. She continues to promote animals’ rights to live in whatever is left of their natural environments free of human interference. Visit Cynthia at www.groundmannersnovel.com

Seven further horses seized from Arabian ranch | Horsetalk.co.nz - International horse news

2011-11-17T15:54:00.000-08:00

Seven further horses seized from Arabian ranch Horsetalk.co.nz
Seven further horses have been seized from an Arabian horse ranch in Minnesota under a warrant obtained by the local sheriff's department. Read more...

Top NZ showjumper Monopoly dies at 33 | Horsetalk.co.nz - International horse news

2011-11-17T15:50:00.000-08:00

Top NZ showjumper Monopoly dies at 33 Horsetalk.co.nz
New Zealand bred warmblood Monopoly, one of Canada's most successful showjumpers, has died at the age of 33. Read more...

Saddle stuffed with $US500,000 in cocaine | Horsetalk.co.nz - International horse news

2011-11-16T13:31:00.000-08:00

Saddle stuffed with $500,000 in cocaine Horsetalk.co.nz
Authorities in Georgia have seized a saddle that was stuffed with $500,000 in cocaine. Read more...

Horses most likely to be injured in pasture - research | Horsetalk.co.nz - International horse news

2011-11-16T13:29:00.000-08:00

Horses most likely to be injured in pasture - research Horsetalk.co.nz
Horses are far more likely to hurt themselves in their pasture than during riding, British research suggests. Read more...

HorseJunkiesUnited.com - JumpOff Lauren Hough on Quick Study - 2011 Big ...

2011-11-16T13:27:00.000-08:00

Emerald & Harrie Smolders

2011-11-15T14:34:00.000-08:00

HorseJunkiesUnited.com - JumpOff Harrie Smolders on Regina Z - 2011 Big ...

2011-11-15T14:29:00.000-08:00

Man dies after horse fall before Christmas parade | Horsetalk.co.nz - International horse news

2011-11-15T09:24:00.000-08:00

Man dies after horse fall before Christmas parade Horsetalk.co.nz
A man about to participate in a Christmas parade received fatal injuries after being unseat from his horse in Ontario, Canada. Read more...

Four police horses retire to life in the country | Horsetalk.co.nz

2011-11-10T14:40:00.000-08:00

Four police horses retire to life in the country Horsetalk.co.nz
Four Manchester police horses who racked up nearly 50 years of service between them have retired to The Horse Trust's sanctuary in Speen, Buckinghamshire. Read more...

2011 AQHA Senior Barrel Racing World Champion

2011-11-08T12:54:00.000-08:00

The Horse | Hickstead's Death Remains Under Investigation

2011-11-08T08:47:00.000-08:00

The Horse Hickstead's Death Remains Under Investigation
The sudden death of Olympic show jumping champion mount Hickstead Nov. 6 could have been caused by a number of factors and not necessarily cardiac arrest, according to the the Fédération Equestre Internationale's (FEI) top veterinary official . Read more...

2011 AQHA Junior Barrel Racing World Champion

2011-11-08T08:43:00.000-08:00

Research into single treatment for arthritis in horses, humans | Horsetalk.co.nz

2011-11-07T15:06:00.000-08:00

Research into single treatment for arthritis in horses, humans Horsetalk.co.nz
Researchers are working on a one-time gene therapy treatment for osteoarthritis that could help horses and humans. Read more...

2011 AQHA World Show - Amateur 2-Year-Old Geldings

2011-11-07T15:03:00.000-08:00

HRTV Rewind 11/6/11

2011-11-07T15:01:00.000-08:00

2011 AQHA World Show - Amateur Yearling Geldings

2011-11-07T10:03:00.000-08:00

A tribute to Hickstead

2011-11-06T16:09:00.000-08:00

Hickstead: loss of a true superstar | Horsetalk.co.nz

2011-11-06T16:07:00.000-08:00

Hickstead: loss of a true superstar Horsetalk.co.nz
The loss of Olympic champion showjumper Hickstead just a year before he would have defended his gold medal in London is a crushing blow for the equestrian world. Read more...

2011 AQHA World Show Amateur Western Pleasure World Champion

2011-11-06T15:08:00.000-08:00

HorseJunkiesUnited.com - Mark Todd Indoor Eventing 2011 Royal Winter Fair

2011-11-06T08:39:00.000-08:00

2011 AQHA World Show - Amateur 3-Year-Old Stallions

2011-11-06T07:35:00.000-08:00

Another carriage horse accident in New York | Horsetalk.co.nz

2011-11-05T14:19:00.000-07:00

Another carriage horse accident in New York Horsetalk.co.nz
Another accident involving a carriage horse in New York has prompted senator Tony Avella to make a renewed call to ban the horse-drawn carriage industry. Read more...

Horse goes down in New York commuter traffic - video | Horsetalk.co.nz

2011-11-05T14:17:00.000-07:00

Horse goes down in New York commuter traffic - video Horsetalk.co.nz
A carriage has gone down in New York City in the middle of the Friday evening commute. Read more...

2011 AQHA World Show - Amateur 3-Year-Old Mares

2011-11-05T14:11:00.000-07:00

Horses Stolen from Southern Arkansas University Campus

2011-11-04T10:22:00.000-07:00

By: Whitney Bryson

On Nov. 2nd, five horses, a 2003 Featherlite trailer and equipment were stolen from the campus of Southern Arkansas University.

Horses involved in the theft are a 16-years-old black AQHA gelding, 7-years-old gray AQHA mare, 14-years-old buckskin Quarter Horse mare, 15-years-old sorrel Quarter Horse gelding and a 12-years-old black Quarter Horse mare.

The 16-years-old black AQHA gelding and 12-year-old black Quarter Horse mare both bear a rocking "M" brand on their left hind quarters while the 15-years-old sorrel Quarter Horse gelding bears a rocking "V" brand on its left front quarter, and a "K" brand on its right hind quarter.

As for the 2003 Featherlite trailer; it is silver in color, with the Georgia License Plate TL7W102 and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) 4FGL020223C058456.

The missing trailer, horses and equipment are worth approximately $200,000 and officials believe money was the likely motive. SAU’s annual rodeo was scheduled to start Thursday (Nov. 3rd) leading some to believe it suspicious that the horses would disappear before a big event.

This year marks the 30th anniversary of the Southern Arkansas University Rodeo. The competition is open to nearly 300 exhibitors from 16 different schools.

Authorities are looking for a Ford truck that is said to be a dark- colored.

The Southern Arkansas University Police Department is asking anyone who has any information regarding the theft to contact them at 870-235-4100

Harness horse races in Sweden in bitless bridle | Horsetalk.co.nz

2011-11-04T08:51:00.000-07:00

Harness horse races in Sweden in bitless bridle Horsetalk.co.nz
A harness horse in Sweden has finished second in its first race with a bitless bridle. Read more...

The Horse | Maryland Men Charged in Wild Horse Shooting

2011-11-03T19:02:00.000-07:00

The Horse Maryland Men Charged in Wild Horse Shooting
A father and son from Maryland are facing charges in connection with the shooting death of a wild horse at the Assateague National Seashore earlier this year. Read more...

Episode 361 of The Horse Show with Rick Lamb "Aromatherapy for Horses"

2011-11-03T13:21:00.000-07:00

Horses, trailer, riding equipment stolen from SAU

2011-11-03T13:14:00.000-07:00

Horses, trailer, riding equipment stolen from SAU

MAGNOLIA, Ark. (KTHV) -- Southern Arkansas University says they had several horses and riding equipment stolen overnight from campus.

Between the hours of 10:30 p.m. on Nov. 2 and 6:30 a.m. Thursday morning, five horses, a horse trailer, and riding equipment were stolen from the Mulerider Stables on the campus of SAU in Magnolia. Read more...

NCHA 2:30 #58

2011-11-03T09:22:00.000-07:00

Equine Chronicle » Gunner is an NRHA Three Million Dollar Sire

2011-11-03T09:17:00.000-07:00

Equine Chronicle » Gunner is an NRHA Three Million Dollar Sire
National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) Hall of Fame inductee, “Gunner” (AQHA Colonels Smoking Gun, APHA Colonels Smokingun), is officially the seventh NRHA Three Million Dollar Sire. Read more...

The Horse | Researchers Use Models to Learn Why Equine Bodies Break

2011-11-03T08:01:00.000-07:00

The Horse Researchers Use Models to Learn Why Equine Bodies Break
Dealing with equine injuries comes with being a horse owner. Some mishaps are more severe than others--such as when Barbaro suffered a catastrophic injury in the 2006 Preakness Stakes--and leave equine enthusiasts asking, "Why?" According to one physical therapist, veterinarians might soon be able to start answering that question thanks to a relatively new technology making an entrance into the horse world. Read more...

Humans, climate change drove Siberian horse extinction | Horsetalk.co.nz

2011-11-03T07:58:00.000-07:00

Humans, climate change drove Siberian horse extinction Horsetalk.co.nz
A combination of climate and human impact drove the demise of wild horses and steppe bison in Siberia in the last 50,000 years, researchers have concluded in a wide-ranging study looking at the likelihood of animals surviving global warming. Read more...

Want to know how to improve your galloping?

2011-11-01T10:12:00.000-07:00

Inside Reining

2011-11-01T09:56:00.001-07:00

Inside Reining IR 1119 TZ from NRHA on Vimeo.

Adequan North American Affiliate Championship Show

2011-11-01T09:52:00.000-07:00

Relive the 2010 NRHA Futurity & Adequan North American Affiliate Championship Show from NRHA on Vimeo.

Breeders’ Cup Wagering Menu and Betting Choices

2011-11-01T09:46:00.000-07:00

Breeders’ Cup Wagering Menu and Betting Choices
With so many great races and big name horses it is often hard to decide how to best spend your bankroll during the two-day Breeders’ Cup event. The good news is that this year horseplayers have more choices than ever before in terms of multi race and exotic wagers with low minimums. Read more...

Baffert getting rail almost a trend in G1 races

2011-11-01T09:44:00.000-07:00

Baffert getting rail almost a trend in G1 races
After trainer Bob Baffert drew the rail in four of the nine races in which he has a Breeders’ Cup horse, our buddy Mike Kane wondered how many times he’d drawn the rail in major races in recent years. Read more...

Breeders' Cup: Prayer for Relief out of Classic with fever

2011-11-01T09:39:00.000-07:00

Breeders' Cup: Prayer for Relief out of Classic with fever
LOUISVILLE, Ky. - Prayer for Relief is out of Saturday's $5 million Breeders' Cup Classic, owner Ahmed Zayat said Tuesday morning. Read more...

The Horse | Strong Drug Reform in Thoroughbred Racing Urged by Owner

2011-11-01T07:57:00.000-07:00

The Horse Strong Drug Reform in Thoroughbred Racing Urged by Owner
North American Thoroughbred racing can only grow by eliminating the use of all drugs was the central theme of a keynote speech delivered Oct. 30 by prominent owner/breeder George Strawbridge Jr. as The Thoroughbred Club of America's "Honor Guest." Read more...

The Horse | County Set to Vote on Florida Barrel Racing

2011-11-01T07:53:00.000-07:00

The Horse County Set to Vote on Florida Barrel Racing
Gretna Racing is asking the government of Gadsden County, Florida, to authorize a referendum in which that county's voters would decide whether to allow slot machines at the facility where it is preparing for the state's first pari-mutuel barrel racing meet. Read more...

Susanville Rescued Horses

2011-10-31T17:17:00.000-07:00

The Horse | Rancher Convicted on Mustang Cruelty Charges Paroled

2011-10-30T19:45:00.000-07:00

The Horse Rancher Convicted on Mustang Cruelty Charges Paroled
Jason Meduna, the former Nebraska training ranch operator convicted on multiple felony animal cruelty counts involving the maltreatment of Bureau of Land Management (BLM) mustangs, has been granted parole pending an investigation of his proposed residence after release. Read more...

Eighteen Iowa horses taken into care | Horsetalk.co.nz

2011-10-30T19:42:00.000-07:00

Eighteen Iowa horses taken into care Horsetalk.co.nz
A group of 18 horses removed from a property in Iowa have been described by authorities as sick and badly neglected. Read more...