A T L A N T I C Volume 28 Number 3

Horse&November 2014Pony - January 2015 $4.95 Pony for Christmas and other wishes Soaring at Free Spirit Equine Metabolic Syndrome Justin Smith at NAJYRC Clydesdale Cavalry And news from around the region

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Publications mail Agreement No. 40051580 return undeliverable canadian addresses to circulation dept. box 1509 liverpool ns b0t 1k0 ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY | November 2014-January 2015 | Page 1 Page 2 | November 2014-January 2015 | ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY In this magazine

Equine Metabolic Syndrome (A Vet’s View)...... 14 Dr. Helen Douglas discusses diseases controlled by the hormonal or endocrine system of horses. Volume 28 #3, November 2014 - January 2015 Tax Registration No. 127869261 Justin Smith A rising star from New Brunswick...... 18 ISSN 1182-5472 An interview by Carolyn Wanamaker with a talented young Atlantic Horse & Pony magazine is published event rider from Bloomfield, New Brunswick who qualified to four times a year. Material is protected by North compete this summer at the prestigious North American Junior and American Copyright and may not be reproduced in any form without permission. Material for Young Rider Championships (NAJYRC) in Lexington, Kentucky. publication is welcome and must come with a self-addressed, postage-paid return envelope to Harrislea Clydesdale Cavalry...... 22 assure return. Material selected for publication may be edited. Subscriptions $16 per year An inspired group of riders in New Brunswick created an all- (includes tax), $22 (U.S. funds) outside Canada, Clydesdale, military-style drill team, patterned after the RCMP until February 13, 2015. Musical Ride, reported by Mary McIntosh.

Publisher: Dirk van Loon Editor: Lisa Hines A Pony for Christmas...... 24 Editorial Assistant: Mary Apessos Our readers share the details of a very special Christmas wish for a Advertising Sales Manager: Matt Thorbourne pony by Judith Scrimger. Advertising: Janie Smith-Clattenburg Jannine Russell Fred Holborn Free Spirits Soar at Rohan Wood Stables...... 26 Office Manager: Chassity Allison Judith Scrimger visits with riders and volunteers of Free Spirit Production Coordinator: Angie Fredericks Therapeutic Riding Association (FSTRA) at Rohan Wood Stables in Production: Stephen Nickerson Aylesford, Nova Scotia. Webmaster: Angie Fredericks Field Editors: P.E.I., Jana Hemphill N.S., Judith Scrimger Handmade Christmas ideas...... 31 Nfld., Ruth Story N.B., Carolyn Wanamaker A groom’s life–part two (Horses 24-7)...... 34

Phone: 902-354-5411, 1-877-354-3764 Mary McIntosh interviews Alison Malatestinic from Rothesay, Website: RuralLife.ca New Brunswick, head groom for Canadian Dressage champion AtlanticHorseandPony.com David Marcus. Classifieds by mail to Box 1509, Liverpool, N.S. B0T 1K0 DEPARTMENTS: or visit RuralLife.ca AtlanticHorseandPony.com Sweepings...... 4 Bits and Spurs...... 6 We do not sell or rent our mailing lists. What’s Happening...... 7

Atlantic Horse & Pony reserves the right to refuse Around the region...... 9 any advertiser or advertisement. Atlantic Horse & New Product...... 20 Pony attempts to accurately publish all editorial Newfoundland and Labrador Report...... Ruth Story 36 and advertising but assumes no responsibility New Brunswick Report...... Carolyn Wanamaker 38 for the accuracy or truthfulness of submitted copy. In the event of an error, Atlantic Horse & Prince Edward Island Report...... Jana Hemphill 40 Pony is responsible for adjustment of the cost of Nova Scotia Report...... Judith Scrimger 42 advertising only in the portion of the ad where the Classifieds...... 45 error occurred. Directory of Advertisers...... 46 The publication of opinions expressed or implied does not signify endorsement by the publisher ON THE COVER: Julia Parker and Max's Cowboy round a barrel at or staff. Old Home Week in Charlottetown in August. 2014 was the 25th Published and printed in Canada. anniversary year of the Maritime Barrel Racing Association. (Nina Linton photo) Material in AtLantic Horse & Pony is protected by North American Copyright Reg. Desig. SUBSCRIPTION FORM ON PAGE 21. ISSN NO. 1182-5472 Publications mail Agreement No. 40051580 return undeliverable canadian addresses to circulation dept. Subscribe today to Horse & Pony and $ave! box 1509 liverpool ns b0t 1k0 atlantichorseandpony.com or phone 1-877-354-3764.

ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY | November 2014-January 2015 | Page 3 s w e e p i n g s Spending Time

Time passes quickly when you’re watching a baby grow. We spent a little while most summer evenings handling our foal. Learning to lead, stand, and pick up feet, (and NOT bite!), is much the same as learning to share, and to say please and thank you. Necessary skills that go unnoticed, unless they are not taught or learned. As horses owners we must make an ef- fort to raise respectful creatures with the skills to go out into the world, and to be good, useful citizens, even if it means getting a few bruises in the process. Recently I had the good fortune of working with a group of Hants County senior 4-H members who exemplify these principles. Their positive attitude, organization and communi- cation skills are proof that country kids with responsibilities, and with animals to care for, have much to offer the world. They did exactly what they said they were going to do, and did it with confidence, helping to make Future Farmers Friday I have been having some fun on my daughter’s horse at the Hants County Exhibition a success. Felicity CB. (Sydney Hines photo)

Corrections This summer I rediscovered the feeling of climbing on a horse In the August-October issue, the photo on page 21 of Bill and having my busy-day worries evaporate. Judith Scrimger’s Cook pole bending was taken by Lisa Everett. story on the Free Spirit Therapeutic Riding Program illustrates just how powerful this feeling can be to those who have much Horse and Pony wishes to apolo- gize to Leslie Wade of Coldbrook greater challenges, day to day, than anything most of us will for incorrectly reporting her age ever know. The story is also a reminder of the difference we as 70 in the article “you are only can make in the lives of others by giving of ourselves, and our as old as you feel” in the August- time. The Free Spirit volunteers are as crucial to the success of October issue. It should be noted this special program as the patient and kind equines they handle. that Leslie was seen recently We had a great response to our request for your Pony for jumping her horse Pavann without a bridle. Pavann is Christmas stories. It turns out there are more than a couple of 26. Their combined ages are 95. Close enough Leslie, close enough. (Judith Scrimger photo) moms and dads out there who have worried about horse poop under the Christmas tree! Judith has compiled a few of our read-

Page 4 | November 2014-January 2015 | ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY ers’ memories for you to enjoy. They may bring back happy from the Horses in Harness report. We wish Pam all the best, thoughts of your own stories about horses at Christmas time. and look forward to hearing from her when she is out and about We also have a sampling of Christmas Wish Lists from our with her camera in tow. Driving news will now be included in readers scattered throughout the magazine (watch for the green the provincial reports. If you have anything you would like to gift tags), and two beautiful handmade gift ideas. At our house, share please contact our report writers Judith, Ruth, Carolyn every Christmas, it is bittersweet and really special to decorate ,and Jana. the tree with animal-art likenesses of Barney, Bruno, Chester, From all of us at Atlantic Horse & Pony have a wonderful Kramer, Hook, and other much-loved members of the family, holiday season with your family and friends–both two legged both past and present. and four. Watch for our “long haul” January issue! Also in this issue, Mary McIntosh brings us a story on Clydes- dales doing something a little unexpected, as well as part two of her series, A groom’s life. Dr. Helen Douglas provides useful information on Equine Metabolic Syndrome and Carolyn Wa- namaker profiles young New Brunswick eventer Justin Smith. Long time contributor Pam MacKenzie is taking a break Lisa Hines

ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY | November 2014-January 2015 | Page 5 b i t s a n d s p u r s

Newfoundland’s Robyn Andrews competes at WEG St. John’s para-equestri- an Robyn An- drews and her Friesian- An- dalusian cross, Fancianna, fin- ished in 17th position at the World Equestrian Games held in August in Normandy, France. “My test went really well,” said An- drews after her WEG debut. “I’m so proud of my horse for doing an awesome job in the big arena today. It has been a great experience to ride at the Games. I have really learned how to control my nerves in such an incredible environment.” The eighth edition of the FEI World Equestrian Games will be held in Bro- mont, QC in 2018.

Canada wins Nations Cup at Spruce Meadows Twenty-year-old Calgarian Ben As- selin and Makavoy led Canada to victory in the $300,000 BMO Nations’ Cup, on a sunny Sept.13. Enthusiastic fans filled the stands and were treated to an exciting finish with Asselin’s double clear putting Canada just ahead of the United States and Belgium. twenty-five cm of snow postponed the start of the 2014 Spruce Meadows “Masters” Tournament three days earlier.

Maritimers head to the Royal Riders from all three provinces will compete at the Royal Winter Fair in To- ronto Nov. 7-16. Accepted entries include Rhyan Rusaw/Tri-Star; Alycia Cooper/ Bailey’s Royale; Leah Gamoulakos/ Soprano K; Sarah Shannon/Alejandro; Rachel Theriault /Mad Money; Mary Lomas-Wetmore/Danica Ellis with Phoe- nix; Old Bull Farm’s Iceburg; Jenn Sars- field with Famous/Lenox; Lane Yuill/ Ironbound; Alex Jamael/Raphaella M; Shawna Rinzler-Johnston/K-OS; Evan Phinney; Lexy Paynter and Campbell Legere. Regular Ontario competitors Megan, Meredith, Olivia, and Jill Irving of Moncton,N.B; P.E.I.’s Dannie Mur- phy; and former HRM residents Kevin Crosby Jr. and Angela Covert will also be competing.

Page 6 | November 2014-January 2015 | ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY w h a t ’ s h a p p e n i n g

Nov. 12-14: 15th Annual ACORN Conference and Trade show, Halifax Marriott Harbourfront Hotel, N.S.; a fun three-day event that brings together organic and sustainable farmers, processors, and businesses from across the region and beyond. For details visit www.acornorganic.org/ conference.

Nov. 14: Midnight madness sale, Sackville Harness, Sackville, N.B. For details visit www.sackvilleharness.com or phone 800-386-4888.

Nov. 16: NSEF Annual General Meeting and Awards reception, Old Orchard Inn, Wolfville, N.S. For details visit www.horsenovascotia.ca or phone 902-425-5450.

Nov. 23: The Emerald Island Hunt Club event. For more information contact Hunt Master Pat Uptegrove at [email protected].

Nov. 27, 28: Nova Scotia Federation of Agriculture Annual Meeting and Trade Show, Best Western Glengarry in Truro. Visit nsfa-fane.ca or phone 902-893-2293.

Nov. 29: Smiling Land Foundation Rockin’ Big Give, Mod Club, Toronto, Ont. The Rainbow Riders in St. John’s, Nfld.-Lab. will be one of the beneficiaries. For details visit http:// www.smilingland.ca.

Dec. 4: Ladies shopping night, Scotian Gold Country Pet and Horse Store, Coldbrook, N.S. For details phone 902-678-4438.

Gorgeous white fences like they have at Coveside. Louise Campbell, Charlottetown P.E.I., writer

ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY | November 2014-January 2015 | Page 7 Dec. 5: Midnight Madness sale, Sackville Harness, Sackville, N.B. For details visit www.sackvilleharness.com or phone 800-386-4888.

Dec. 6: A wide variety of goods and crafts will be available at the New Ross Legion as part of the 21st New Ross Christmas Festival from 10am to 3pm. To book a table call Phyllis Walker, 902-689-2668.

Dec. 13-15: Clinic with John MacPherson, D&D Stables, Cap- Pelé, N.B. Contact Donald Arsenault or Donna McInnis, 506-577-4033.

Dec. 18, 19: Bits and Bridles extended holiday hours, 9am -7pm, Falmouth, N.S. Visit www.bitsnbridles.ca or phone 902-798-2874.

Dec. 27: Greenhawk’s Boxing Day sale at store locations across Canada. Visit www.greenhawk.com or phone 800-268-0484.

March 5-7: Atlantic Farm Mechanization Show, Moncton Coliseum Complex, Moncton, N.B. Theme for 2015 is “Gateway to Farm Innovation.” For more information visit www. farmmechshow.com.

“What’s Happening” is a free service to current advertisers and registered non-profit groups. The commercial rate for items in this column is $23, max. 20 words. Send notices to What’s Happening, care of HP, Box 1509, Liverpool, NS B0T 1K0. Or, go to Events, Post Events at RuralLife.ca. For each event, include name of event, date, location, a contact person and a phone number.

Happy Holidays from Horse & Pony

Page 8 | November 2014-January 2015 | ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY a r o u n d t h e r e g i o n

Zinck (Fredericton, N.B.). “Jacquie had a very easygoing way of explaining,” said Duston. “In my ride, we started a lot of work on shoulder in, which was great, and which eventually led to the best canter transitions ever. I think after my third ride I was informed that I had improved! What a thrill! Jacquie had me doing travers, half pass, and walk pirouette, all of which I had never done before!” Duston would like to thank Sumac Farms and staff for hosting the clinic at their beautiful facility. She also said a highlight of the weekend was when Rhonas Thomson and Travis Smith took Brooks out for a lunchtime trail Taking the show on the road Champions in the 1.25m jumper at ride. Duston would also like to thank (Above photo by Tracey Ungar) International Blainville and secured a Omega Alpha for their gift packs of This was a record summer for many second in the 1.25m Speed Derby at scrim sheets and hats which went to hunter/jumper riders in the Maritimes – Bromont. Maggie Brennen and Futurist the most improved riders over the as they stepped up their game – and took 2B won the Champion Jr. Hunter weekend, Wylie Roberts, Donna Sears, their horses to shows on the A-circuit at Bromont. Leah Gamolakous and and Julia Young. Lily Campbell of P.E.I. in Ontario and Quebec. Jill Swain of Soprano K were Reserve Champions won a saddle pad donated by Holly Ardoise, N.S. (pictured), turned some Pre-Green and Reserve Champions Barnett’s company, August Equine, and heads in Quebec when she came up Children’s Hunter at International Greenhawk in Truro donated a dressage against international jumper riders. Blainville. saddle pad that went to Jana Hemphill, Swain piloted Fiamo to a third-place Riders from Restless Pines and P.E.I. Brooks will be back in the Spring finish behind Canadian stars Mac Cone Horseplay Stables also had great of 2015 at Julia Young’s Stable in and Mario Deslauriers in the Modified summers showing away. Campbell Canning, N.S. and will return to Sumac Grand Prix at the International in Legere and Rubin placed second at Farms in Trenton, N.S. in October 2015. Bromont. Swain also finished third in Concours Hippique du Levis in the Dates are to be determined. MM Concours Hippique du Levis $20,000 Jump Canada Medal. Katie Martin and Grand Prix. Barrington were Low Hunter Champions The Medford Meadows team, coached in the same show. New Brunswick’s by Jenn Sarsfield, also brought home Alex Jamael was Reserve Champion some big prizes: Emma Chaisson was 1.20 Jr/Am jumper on Raphaella M at Champion on Quick Step Z and Reserve both Concours Hippique du Levis and Ch. on Sophia in the Jr/Am 1.30m classes Jumping Blainville Week Three. JS at the International Bromont in Quebec. Evan Phinney finished fourth on Bling Jacqueline Brooks Clinic in the CET Atlantic Regional Final. (Photo at right by Debbie Zinck) Sarsfield took a fourth place in a large Jacqueline Brooks, a two-time 1.40m jumper class in Ocala, Florida Canadian Olympic team member and with Ozaria and was fifth in the Canadian seasoned international competitor Team Talent Squad at Angelstone. Her taught a dressage clinic at Sumac mount, Famous, placed second in the Farms, in Trenton, N.S. on Oct. 17 to Canadian Hunter Derby at Bromont and 19. Joanne Duston of Truro organized first at Concours Hippique du Levis. the clinic. Duston was one of nine riders, It looks as if this pair will be heading including Wylie Roberts (Halifax), for the Canadian Championships at the Anne Marie Kember (New Glasgow), Royal Winter Fair. Julia Young (Canning), Donna Sears Jacqueline Brooks, member of the Long Lane Farms in Mount Uniacke, (Canning), Dawn Helm (Port Howe), Canadian Olympic Dressage Team N.S. had some great road trips. Lindsay Becca Fleet (Bridgewater), Shanea and Coach, Maggie Zinck on Figgy, Bradshaw and Emilionaire were Reserve Millet (Port Williams), and Maggie and clinic organizer, Joanne Duston.

ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY | November 2014-January 2015 | Page 9 ropes at On Tree Park in Martock, N.S. The CPC event was run on a medal format, judged by Judy Covert and Valerie Phelan, with course design by Megan Atkinson. The riders drew for horses, which were provided by local Pony Club members. The riders only had a few hours to get to know their mounts before the competition began. All of the competitors were pleased with being assigned a a volunteer groom to assist them. Kaya Hunter (pictured centre) took home the gold, while Katelynn Marshall (pictured right) of Nova Scotia took silver and Jessi Good of Manitoba (pictured left) took bronze. JS

Show Jumping with the Canadian Pony Club (CPC) (Photo by Judith Scrimger) When Pony Club members from across Canada arrived in Windsor, N.S. for the Canadian Pony Club Show Jumping Championships they were treated to Maritime hospitality at is best. “Everyone here is so friendly. The clinic with Jen Hamilton was amazing, and the talks with the vets about breeding was really eye opening,” said Kaya Hunter of the British Columbia Lower Mainland Pony Club. In addition to the visit to the Old Bull Farm breeding operation with veterinarians Paul Johnston and Jeannine De Luca, the group did a team building exercise on the high

Ultimate Trail Class, Hants County Exhibition (Photo by Lily Sampson) The $1,000 Brison Developments Ltd. Ultimate Trail Class was the high- light of the Sept. 20 Saturday evening program at the 249th Hants County Exhibition. Spectators enjoyed a good competitive class featuring 10 of the top trail horses in Nova Scotia. Competitors came from as far away as Cape Breton, hoping to take home a piece of the prize. The fisherman-themed class proved to be a challenge, even for the seasoned trail horses, with the water element causing the most difficulty. There was a human test run earlier in the evening as the course was used for the Partner Carrying Competition. The horses faired much better than their human counterparts! Middleton, N.S.’s Clint Lewis and Overdrive (pictured) won the class. Mona Lewis and Dun Smokin Hollywood from Blacketts Lake, Cape Breton were second. Kate Jurgens on Everybody’sA new barrel Dream saddle. from Falmouth, Megan McConnell N.S. took home third. Special, 14, Centreville, thanks to SueN.B., Lowe barrel for designingracer and building the course and Jane Abbot for judging. LH Page 10 | November 2014-January 2015 | ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY Bob Giles Carriage Driving Clinic (Photo at right by Kim Fortin) Society president) and me lessons on “He checked harnesses, carriages, Bob Giles needs little introduction obstacle driving. We learned how to and horses for driving suitability,” in the carriage driving community. walk a cross-country course to the best said Allan. He is a long time competitor in advantage, and got to repeat obstacles Giles, who works out of Maine in both combined driving and pleasure to correct our driving mistakes.” the summers, and out of Florida in the showing. He is a popular clinician Giles drives hundreds of horses a winter, enjoyed his visit and Allan hopes throughout the United States and year and his first priority is safety. he will be back next year. JS internationally, so local drivers were quick to sign up when Wallace River Hafllingers and Fourwinds Farm brought Giles to Nova Scotia for a six-day clinic. Giles visited some drivers on their home farms to deal with green horses, and horses with issues. He worked with beginners, novice, and experienced drivers in lessons at Gillian Allan’s Wallace River site. Carriage horses and ponies, draft horses, and miniatures were all represented. Allan, who is a certified Equine Canada driving coach, used the opportunity to mentor the participants. “While he was giving instruction, I would get to sit in the carriage with the driver,” says Allan. “He also gave Sue Karrel (Nova Scotia Driving

A Samshield helmet and an Antares breastplate. Erin Cechetto, 16, Ashdale, N.S., jumper rider

If history is any indication, I will most likely get gift certificates for tack shops and little horsey gadgets, halters, and buckets, brushes and hoof picks. Lisa Everett, 39, Lakeburn, N.B., barrel racer

A little room with a button, and when the temperature outside dips to a certain point, alarms will go off and I can push the button and be beamed to Florida! Dr. Jeannine De Luca, Brooklyn, N.S., member of Annapolis Valley Hunt and amateur hunter rider

ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY | November 2014-January 2015 | Page 11 Sporting Day of Traditional Carriage Driving at Sherbrooke Village In August, The Nova Scotia Driving Society held its annual Sporting Day of Traditional Carriage Driving at Sherbrooke Village. The drivers and volunteers started the day with a delicious buffet breakfast provided by Margaret Harpell and the St. Mary’s River Smoke House. The beautiful historic village was alive with the sights, sounds and smells of the 1860s as the carriages traveled the local streets. The event included a short country drive along the river to Sawmill Landing, a figure eight in the Cenotaph field, and a cones course to test the skill and speed of the drivers and horses. While the horses enjoyed a well-earned break, the drivers and volunteers savored a hearty lunch at the What Cheer Tea Room in Sherbrooke Village, and then it was harness and hitch for the prize presentations, and a final trot around the Village to end the day. (Photo at right by Kim Foote)

What I really need….honestly… NOTHING. But don’t tell my husband that…LOL! Judy Stiles, Saint John, N.B., adult amateur English rider

To own my very own pony - I would call her Maggie Jean. Kelsey Wilband, 24, Meadowvale Annapolis County, N.S., Free Spirit Therapeutic rider

I’ll probably get boot socks and maybe a pair of breeches. Cativa will get carrots, a new rain sheet and a half pad if she's a good girl! Gillian Sheppard, 26, St. John’s, Nfld., musician and dressage/ pleasure rider

A new barrel saddle. Megan McConnell, 14, Centreville, N.B., barrel racer

Page 12 | November 2014-January 2015 | ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY | November 2014-January 2015 | Page 13 a v e t ’ s v i e w Equine Metabolic Syndrome and other hormonal conundrums

ratio between phosphorus and calcium in the blood, and increases blood calcium when needed by leeching it from the bones. Diseases of this gland are found in horses but are more common in small animals. The thymus is located near the heart and lungs and is a specialized organ of the immune system. This gland is more important to newborns and is not commonly associated with adult equine diseases.

Cushings disease Cushings disease is the enlargement of the pituitary or adrenal glands, and it causes chronically-increased blood cortisol levels. The cause can be either benign or cancerous. The earliest sign of this common equine disease is excess hair growth and the failure to shed. Patchy sweating, sinus infections, and increased drinking are also symptoms. The most by Helen Douglas its production of the hormone thyroxine serious manifestation of Cushings dis- Equine Metabolic Syndrome, Cush- and the adrenal gland to produce cortisol. ease is laminitis. The most recent and ings disease, and hypothyroidism are The malfunction of the pituitary gland, accurate method to diagnose this disease important diseases of the horse which particularly in older horses and ponies, is by testing the levels of ACTH – a test have become better understood and results in the overproduction of these which requires special methodology and controlled over the past 10 years thanks hormones. handling of the sample. Veterinarians to greater information, special feeds, and The adrenal gland is located at the may try to stimulate the adrenal gland to management tools. These diseases are upper pole of the kidney, and is made evaluate an over-active response with an controlled by the hormonal or endocrine up of two layers – the medulla and the ACTH stimulation test, or try to suppress system, and although overweight horses cortical layer – and each is responsible the blood cortisol with a dexamethasone and ponies are more prone to these ail- for producing key hormones. The medulla suppression test. ments, all horse owners should learn more uses cholesterols and other compounds Treatment: Pergolyde is costly, but about the causes and symptoms of these to form reproductive hormones such as produces good results by increasing the diseases. estrogen and testosterone, whereas the dopamine in the body and shutting down adrenal cortex secretes stress hormones the pituitary gland. It may be used in Equine glands such as cortisol and adrenalin, which concert with cyproheptadine. A gland is a specialized cell, or group of trigger the flight response and affect heart Cyproheptadine is less costly and is a cells, which selectively removes materi- rate and blood sugar. moderately effective antihistamine with als from the blood, concentrates or alters The thyroid gland uses iodine and few side effects. them, and secretes them for use in the lipid carriers, and forms hormones that Chasteberry is a natural remedy to body. The pituitary gland could be called control the body’s metabolic rate, which consider. the mastermind of the endocrine system. influences skin, hair growth, and weight Trilostane shrinks the adrenal gland, It is located above the palate, at the base regulation. They also play a role in re- lowering blood cortisol, and is experi- of the brain. The pituitary gland secretes production and fertility. mental in horses. the thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) The tiny parathyroid gland is attached and the adrenocorticotropic hormone to the thyroid and secretes the parathyroid Equine Metabolic Syndrome (ACTH) into the bloodstream. These hormone, which regulates the balance of Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) hormones tell the thyroid gland to increase calcium in the body. It maintains a key or insulin resistance is similar to Type

Page 14 | November 2014-January 2015 | ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY 2 diabetes in humans, and is caused by treatment that regulates fat distribution the chronic elevation of insulin in the and carbohydrate metabolism. May be body. Most horses affected with EMS are used as supportive treatment for weight overweight or obese and have abnormal loss. fat deposits on the body and crest. Signs Regular controlled exercise is known also include sluggishness and laminitis. to control blood sugar and the release of It tends to be found in easy keepers, insulin. and in breeds such as the Canadian and the Peruvian Paso, which historically Hypothyroidism survived on harsh or forage diets alone. Hypothyroidism is caused by the It may be related to changing husbandry failure of the thyroid gland to produce methods and excess feeding, and can adequate thyroxine, which results in a be seen with hypothyroidism. Testing chronic low level of this key hormone for the disease will involve a screening in the bloodstream. Low levels of iodine panel of blood tests, including blood in the diet and autoimmune disease cortisol, blood sugar, thyroid hormone, have also been implicated as causes. and insulin. The signs of this disease are obesity, a Treatment: Dietary management cresty neck, lethargy, subfertility, and and weight control including the slower a poor coat. A thyroid panel will be release of limited carbohydrates in recommended to test for this disease. conjunction with more fiber in the diet. The measurement of all key thyroid Chromium and Vitamin E have been products and the precursor hormone tested and shown to have an insulin- TSH is the best way to test for this sparing effect. ailment, rather than measuring an Trilostane and Pergolyde to control isolated thyroxine level, which can blood cortisol if Cushings is concurrent. fluctuate during the day. Thyroid hormone is a synergistic Treatment: The treatment for this

A grazing muzzle is helpful for an easy keeping pony like Sherman. (Helen Doudlas photos)

ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY | November 2014-January 2015 | Page 15 disease is the oral supplement levo- thyroxine, an inexpensive natural replacement, which can significantly improve the symptoms of hypothyroidism in the horse. The vet will recommend testing the T4 level after stabilization on the new medication and adjustments can be easily made. The horse should remain on this oral supplement for life. Key Points: Many of the commonly-recognized hormonal syndromes of horses are interrelated and fall together under the umbrella of pituitary malfunction. Owners of easy keeping or pony-type horses should be diligent regarding their weight and feeding program to prevent these diseases, which are often worsened by overfeeding. Ask your veterinarian about diet and using the appropriate feeds to prevent this disease. Horses that develop abnormal fat pads or have episodes of laminitis with no apparent cause should be tested for EMS. As with many diseases of the equine, working with your veterinarian is the best plan for diagnosis and management.

An example of abnormal fat deposits on crest of neck.

Laminitis is a common and severe side effect of Equine Metabolic Syndrome.

Page 16 | November 2014-January 2015 | ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY | November 2014-January 2015 | Page 17 Justin Smith A rising star from New Brunswick

Page 18 | November 2014-January 2015 | ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY by Carolyn Wanamaker represent their countries on Olympic, at Strathgartney Horse Trials at entry Justin Smith, a talented young event World Championship, and Nations level, and I placed first and got high rider from Bloomfield, New Brunswick, Cup teams, got their start at this event. point rider. I then went to Ian as an qualified to compete this summer at The competition is run under rules of entry-level rider,” said Smith. “From the prestigious North American Junior the Federation Equestre Internationale there, I have evented every year, and Young Rider Championships (FEI), the international governing body almost every weekend, from June to (NAJYRC) in Lexington, Kentucky. for equestrian sport. September. Ontario has competitions The NAJYRC is an elite competition Smith, 17, got his start as a rider every weekend, which allows riders and for young athletes from the United at his local Pony Club and eventually horses to get the exposure and training States, Bermuda, Canada, Mexico, discovered the thrill of eventing. In 2011 needed to move up the levels. I have Puerto Rico, and the Caribbean. The he attended a clinic taught by Canadian also evented in Michigan and Kentucky. riders compete for team and individual Olympian Ian Roberts at Rohirrim Farm Ian Roberts and Kelly Plitz have given medals in show jumping, dressage, in Fredericton. The Roberts’ clinic me opportunities above and beyond my eventing, reining, and endurance and crystalized Smith’s love of eventing. expectations.” are between the ages of 14 and 21. The At 14, he became a working summer In the fall of 2013 Smith competed Championships are held every summer, student for Ian Roberts and Kelly Plitz at the Hagyard Midsouth CCI* at the and can mark the beginning of a life as at their Ontario farm. Kentucky Horse Park, where he went an international athlete. Many of North “My last show in New Brunswick was double clear and finished ninth. This America’s top equestrians, who now in September 2011, where I competed qualified him for the 2014 NAJYRC, where he competed in the Junior division. Smith said he had an amazing experience, thanks to the collegiality of the Ontario team, which took him under their wing, inviting him to their social events, from barbecues to golf cart contests. On the competition side, he said riding in the famous Rolex stadium was a huge thrill. Smith’s equine partner is a handsome gray gelding, Yahya, an eight-year-old off-the-track Thoroughbred. “His barn name is Johnny,” said Smith. “Kelly found him when he was four and I got him when he was five. Kelly thought we would make a good match. Johnny and I were both entry level so it was perfect that we got to grow together. We worked well together and moved up the levels at a quick pace.” Smith’s future goals include finishing in the top three at a 1* and moving up to qualify for the Young Riders at the 2* level. His long-term goal is to be on the Canadian Olympic team. Watch for Justin and Yahya at the 2015 NAJYRC and other major events.

Tickets to a World Cup in Aachen, Germany. Joanne Duston, 50-ish, Upper Brookside, N.S., organizer of dressage symposiums/clinics (Brant Gamma Photography photos)

ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY | November 2014-January 2015 | Page 19 New Product

Whoa Dust Whoa Dust is an environmentally friendly non-toxic dust-control prod- uct. It can be used with almost any arena footing and promises to reduce watering by 80 pecent. The Windsor Agricultural Society has been given the opportunity to try this product in the Dexter Con- struction Mary Henry Equi Centre at Hants County Exhibition Park. This new indoor arena is used as a warm up ring during show season and is home to Avon Pony Club during the

winter months. Controlling dust in the building requires consistent wa- tering. Reduction in watering would save money, time, resources, and the inconvenience of dealing with water in freezing temperatures. Whoa Dust was applied October 22, 2014. The 160’ by 60’ arena required 2.5 bags of product, with each bag costing $200. Alex, the friendly sales representative’s clear instructions made Whoa Dust easy to apply. It re- quired two passes with a hand seeder at low setting, followed each time with a light pass with the groomer, a regular watering, and a final pass with the groomer. The material is almost invisible when applied. The product should last up to 16 months between treatments and increase the tensile strength of the footing. Results will be tracked throughout the winter. For more information on Whoa Dust visit the website: http://www. whoadust.com.

Page 20 | November 2014-January 2015 | ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY | November 2014-January 2015 | Page 21 Harrislea Clydesdale Cavalry Doubling down on talent

Members of the New Brunswick Drill Team at the competition at Princess Louise Show Park in Sussex. From left to right: Jennifer Hawkes and Harrislea Haley, Siobhan MacDonald and Harrislea Shylo, Ashley Jones and Pine River Billy, Natalie Holder and Gormley's Island Ruby, Kendra Harris and Pine River Jorja. Members of the 2014 Team missing from the photo are Kristina Nason, who rode Westcock Molly, and Captain Leah Grandy, who just had a baby a couple days before the picture was taken. (Melissa Murphy photo) by Mary McIntosh used for shows and parades. Budweiser never had a rider on them – ever – and Clydesdales are showy when hitched Brewery owns one of the best-known we were trail riding them within a couple as a team because of their impressive hitches and uses them for public rela- of weeks. We rode them in the hayfields size, power, and clean-stepping stride. tions and to promote the Budweiser all that winter and by November we They are energetic and cooperative, and brand. The Clydesdale Cavalry is the were riding patterns with them in the bring a positive attitude to their work. only one of its kind in the Maritimes, hayfields. A lot of them were trained to That’s what inspired a group of riders to and one of a handful of draft horse drill be hitch horses – so they were used to create an all-Clydesdale, military-style teams in Canada. being in pairs and riding as a group – so drill team, patterned after the RCMP Grandy said after the Fredericton that definitely helped.” Musical Ride. show she contacted Kendra and Lukas The team is made up of six young Leah Grandy, 35, is the team captain Harris, who own and breed Clydesdales women and an alternate: Ashley of the Clydesdale Cavalry. She said the in Fredericton Junction, New Brunswick, Jones, 29; Natalie Holder, 29; Siobhan idea to create a drill team using draft to see if they would be interested in al- MacDonald, 32; Jennifer Hawkes, 15; horses came up when a group of friends lowing their horses to be used as a drill Kristina Nason, 13; and Kendra Harris, were watching the breed compete two team, and to get permission for the riders 26. The team rides horses owned by years ago at the New Brunswick Exhibi- to start training the horses under saddle. Pine River Clydesdales and Harrislea tion in Fredericton. “The Harrises told us that we should give Clydesdales in Fredericton Junction. The “It started off as a joke,” said Grandy. it a try, and we started working with horses are between 16 to 18hh, weigh up “We thought it would be great if we the horses a few weeks after that,” said to 2,000 pounds, and range in age from could create an all-Clydesdale drill team Grandy. five to 16 years old. because they’re not normally riding For most of the horses, this was the “I like their personality. They are horses, and we thought it would be fun.” first time they were ever ridden, and all very calm, but at the same time they are The imposing breed, originally of them were introduced to group riding very willing, and if you ask them to do developed for hauling heavy loads in for the first time that winter. “They were something, their attitude is ‘OK, I’ll do agriculture, is now almost exclusively very good to break. Most of them had it,’” said Grandy. “They have a very good

Page 22 | November 2014-January 2015 | ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY work ethic, and if they do get spooked added some canter, but it’s still a lot of they have the right stuff to be safe and by something they tend not to escalate. sitting trot, and we are asking for some reliable both as hitch horses and drill They see it and say, ‘OK, that’s not lengthening and collection because in team members. going to hurt me,’ and they go back to drill you have to adjust their pace. This “They're such a great breed of horses,” being level, but at the same time they’re year they’re also carrying flags, so that Grandy said. “They're easy to work with not dull and plodding like people kind was a challenge, because they’re pretty – they tend to not be as high-strung as of expect them to be. They are forward green to steer off the leg so that you could regular horses – and they don't react quite and can be athletic. I think that’s what carry a flag, and so we had to get them as strongly to distractions and noise. All surprised people when we went to the adjusted to carrying a flag, too.” these horses have been – or are – show New Brunswick drill competition. We The team has shown in various com- harness horses for driving, not riding. were the first draft team to go there, and munities in New Brunswick over the Normally, if this was a team of normal I think people were shocked by how well past two years. Last year they performed riding horses, and we put them in these they moved.” on Canada Day in the village of Tracy, kinds of situations, they might not be so The team has riders rotate in and out, at the drill competition in Sussex, and at well behaved. These guys are generally and Grandy and Jones are the lead rid- the New Brunswick Exhibition. This year very well behaved and do exactly what ers. Both women are experienced drill they competed at the drill competition in you want them to do.” riders and had previously been members Sussex, and for the second year in a row of light horse drill teams. Grandy does took home both first and second place in choreography for the shows, which she the quadrille division. The team performed said features standard moves for drill at the Fredericton Junction Come Home teams, and she tries to come up with Week celebrations this year, and finished new patterns to keep things interesting the season at the New Brunswick Exhi- A horse! for the horses and riders. bition. They hope to perform with the Emma Stewart, 11, “We don’t usually walk unless it’s Musical Ride next year; when they had Charlottetown, P.E.I. part of a certain maneuver, and last year a light team they opened for them twice. we did all trot because the horses were Grandy said that from their very first very green,” said Grandy. “This year we show the Clydesdales have proven that

ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY | November 2014-January 2015 | Page 23 A Pony for Christmas by Judith Scrimger Every horse lover dreams of receiving a pony for Christmas, and whether they gave one or received one, our readers share the details of a very special Christmas.

My parents say the second word I learned was “horsey,” right after I learned the word “mommy”. There was never a time I didn’t want a horse but coming from a family of five kids, the usual answer was, “someday, if we can afford it.” When I was 12, which is about 45 years ago now, our neighbors asked me to come over on Christmas Eve to make up a game of 45s. At the time, I wondered why they asked me to play, and not my mom or dad, because I was just a kid. I also wondered why the drapes of the window were closed in the room that over- looked our yard. On Christmas morning, I opened my present from Santa and found a bridle. I was so busy smelling the leather that at first I didn’t notice someone calling me into the kitchen. It was my dad, and he was holding a black pony. I spent the whole day in the barn, and I’ve pretty much owned a horse ever since. Sue Crocker of New Albany, N.S., competes in carriage driving and is a member of the Annapolis Valley Harness Club.

In 1994, I was nine years old and Christmas morning started like any other – we got up and went right out to the barn to feed the ponies. My grandfather Last year, a month before Christmas, we took our two girls, taught us that no matter what, the horses come Katelyn and Lauren, to look at a pony named Shadow. My first – you never eat before them. Every year we friend, Jackie Allen, who was pregnant at the time, was in on always put a stocking on each stall door so Santa the surprise. We told the kids we were trying out the pony for would leave carrots. I didn’t clue in right away Jackie to buy, and that they could ride the pony until Jackie had that the one empty stall had a stocking on it, and her baby. On Christmas Day we headed to the boarding barn when I looked, there was Little Smokey! Mom says where we had left a Christmas card, with the girls’ names on I jumped straight off the ground with excitement! it, on Shadow’s stall. It had a photo of the girls and Shadow I was over the moon, but I noticed that my parents and we had written, “Merry Christmas Girls! Shadow is Your looked worried. They had hung a big red ribbon Pony!” Katelyn couldn’t believe it and said, “She’s ours? on his stall the night before and it was missing. Forever?” Shadow had on a new blanket and red bow, and That’s how we discovered that Smokey would eat Jackie gave them a red halter with two red lead lines, one for anything! Luckily, he suffered no ill effects from each of the girls. They were very surprised and kept asking his Christmas snack. for days afterwards if the pony was really theirs! Nikki Woolaver, of Amherst, N.S., rode her way Crystal Barteaux-Tattersall, of Middleton, N.S., is a through Pony Club and the hunter division, and teacher and the mother of Katelyn, 9, and Lauren, 7. now does team cattle penning with her fiancé, Mike Porter.

Page 24 | November 2014-January 2015 | ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY Back in 1978, when I was 12 and living in Middleton, love with him when I was seven. Surprisingly, he was good N.S., I received Hi Jack for Christmas. It was a complete to ride, and jumped around small courses with no problem. surprise, but I knew him; he was a school horse at the I had been leasing him for a year, and on Christmas all my Newcomb Farm in Wilmot, N.S. When I opened up one of presents were pony related: a winter blanket, brushes, and my Christmas presents it was a pie plate of cut-up apples saddle pads. The last present I opened was a show bridle and carrots with a note saying, “You can feed this to your and the nameplate said, “Owner: Emma Lefler.” I was so hay burner named Hi Jack.” When we arrived at the barn he happy; I couldn’t believe it! I loved him, and in the following was covered with ribbons and bows, and I cried and cried. years he took me from a nervous, local competitor to winning Sandra Symonds of Wolfville, N.S., shows her Quarter ribbons in pony hunter classes at Equine Canada – rated Horse, Dixon, in both dressage and hunter classes, and is shows. I rode and competed Scooter until I was 16. He’s a horse-show mother to her teenage daughter, Samantha. retired now, and still cranky. He has mellowed a bit with age, but he still likes me better than anyone else. Who would have guessed a pony, known as the Monster, Emma Lefler of Amherst, N.S., would be the best Christmas present ever? Scooter, a 12.1 shows hunters and jumpers. Welsh Mountain Pony, was rescued from a meat truck, and despite his lack of stable manners – kicking and biting were We gave our three kids, Alex, Jackie, and Kelsey, their his usual reactions to anyone entering his stall – I fell in first pony for Christmas. Her name was Ladyslipper. We hid her in the neighbor’s barn, put a big red bow on her, and put brushes dropped in a path to the barn door so they could find her! Anne Merritt owns and coaches at Windcrest Stables In 2008, my dad was stationed in Kandahar, in Grand Desert, N.S. She’s a horse-show mother to Afghanistan, with the Canadian military and it was Kelsey, who is still riding and competing ever since she the first time he wasn’t home for Christmas. I was 14, got that first pony for Christmas. and in April that year we had leased Amigo, a Quarter Horse my sister, Kim, and I both loved. We leased him for the summer, but in the fall my mom said we could keep him for a few more months, but he’d have to go back in the New Year. Amigo helped us get over dad being away and we were really feeling bad about giving him up. On Christmas Eve, we stayed up past midnight so that we could talk to our dad on Skype. It was Christmas morning for him, and Christmas Eve for us. We always open one present on Christmas Eve, and dad wanted to be there for this one. Mom gave us a big box, and inside was a photo of mom and dad holding Amigo, wearing a big red ribbon. They had taken the photo before dad left because they had already decided to buy Amigo for us. The box also contained photos and letters from mom and dad. Kim and I cried when we read the letters, and mom and dad cried, too. I rode Amigo through to my B-level in Pony Club. We still have him and we now lease him to other Pony Club members. Katelynn Marshall, a riding instructor at Rohan Wood Stables in Aylesford, N.S., is enrolled in the distance program in Equine Studies at the University of Guelph.

ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY | November 2014-January 2015 | Page 25 Free Spirits Soar at Rohan Wood Stables by Judith Scrimger Chase Brown rolls his wheelchair up the ramp to the indoor arena at Ro- han Wood Stables in Aylesford, Nova Scotia. Brown, 18, has cerebral palsy, and his instructor and two volunteers help him to mount Marcus, a gray pony, that is waiting patiently at the ramp. It requires skill and training to help Brown mount up, but the rewards are great for everyone involved. Once in the saddle, Brown, from Melvern Square, N.S., demonstrates the soaring spirit of the instructors, volunteers, parents, and riders of the Free Spirit Therapeutic Riding Association (FS- TRA). “He loves adventure,” says Krystal Brown, his mother, who watches from Alissa Cue encourages Austin Thorpe, 4, to tell Marcus, the pony, to “go.” the sidelines. “He does downhill skiing Volunteers Cassidee Kempton and Dupie Milne-Ashton make sure Austin is bal- in the winter, but he really enjoys rid- anced in the saddle and that Marcus moves quietly. (Judith Scrimger photo) ing. There is no other exercise you can do for cerebral palsy that can develop After his lesson, Brown has no because every horse in the program core strength and balance the way rid- hesitation in confirming that Marcus has a loyal following. ing does,” she says. “And Chase has fun is his favorite horse. The other rid- “The horses are chosen for their besides, and it’s so well organized here.” ers in the program would disagree, temperament,” says Kathleen Mur-

Spirits soar in this group lesson at Free Spirit Therapeutic Riding Association at Rohan Wood Stables in Aylesford, N.S. Shown here are: Chloe Smith of Bridgetown with her mount Jack; volunteer Cassidee Kempton; Kelsey Wilband of Meadowvale with Toby: Hannah Cliche with Champ; and instructor Alissa Cue. (Judith Scrimger photo)

Page 26 | November 2014-January 2015 | ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY phy, program director and volunteer N.S., Hannah Cliche, 21, of Nictaux coordinator of FSTRA. “Most are used Falls, N.S., and Chloe Smith, 28, of in the Rohan Wood Stables beginner Bridgetown, N.S., participate weekly. recreation program, but we do a lot They ride independently at the walk, of desensitization training with them. and work on skill-building exercises. They have to be tolerant of a lot of “I love Jack; he’s the best horse,” noise, vocalizations, and different says Smith. She can’t stop smiling as behaviors. They also need the right a volunteer helps her tack up a black body shape to accommodate the special and white Paint. Her mother, Rowena needs of the riders.” Smith, is not a horse person but is FSTRA is an accredited, non- positive about the program. “It’s not profit organization. Alissa Cue is the as scary as you think,” she says. “The owner of Rohan Wood Stables and head horses here are so patient and the vol- coach of the program, which is run by unteers are so good.” volunteers and supported by donations. Cliche is riding Champ, a tall New clients start riding with three vol- Warmblood cross. “I like to trot and unteers – one leads the horse and two Alissa is awesome,” she says. Her walk on either side to provide security mother, Ann Cliche, says riding gives for the rider. The goal of the program her daughter the opportunity to build is to give people of all ages with a wide self-confidence. “The horses have range of challenges, including cerebral a calming effect, and they also give palsy, autism, eating disorders, cogni- Hannah a chance to do what others in tive delay, Down syndrome, and mental her age group might do.” health issues, the opportunity to ride. One of the goals of the Free Spirit Therapeutic riding helps to improve program is to improve self-confi- muscle tone, joint mobility, balance dence through bonding with horses. “I and coordination, spatial awareness, love to trot and I like being the boss and attentiveness, as well as enhancing of my horse,” says Wilband, who is learning skills. The volunteers and staff riding Toby. “I love the people here.” of a therapeutic riding program such as Out in the ring, Cue is working FSTRA can make all the difference in with Austin Thorpe, 4, of Kingston, the world to the riders and their parents. N.S. “Austin is autistic and has some Kelsey Wilband, 24, of Meadowvale, sensory impairment,” says his mother, Jackie Thorpe. “The riding is wonder- ful. For example, he hated wearing anything on his head. Now, because of wearing a riding helmet, he’s not so reluctant to wear a hat. And it has really helped with his vocalization.” In this lesson a volunteer hands Thorpe a card with a picture of a horse moving, with green for “go.” With Cue’s enthusiastic and patient encour- agement, Thorpe soon learns he must say the word “go” before the pony will move on. Kaitlin Lillington of the Nova Scotia Hearing and Speech Centre is Thorpe’s speech therapist. It’s her first visit to the stable and she is impressed with the session. “They really seem to be on board here and will it help with Hannah Cliche of Nictaux Falls, N.S., Austin’s development,” she says. has been riding for 10 years and Murphy and Cue meet with the shows her ability to balance in the parents of newcomers to the program saddle on Champ, while FSTRA pro- to develop cognitive, behavioral, gram coordinator Kathleen Murphy physical, and emotional goals for assists. (Judith Scrimger photo) their children. “We create individual

ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY | November 2014-January 2015 | Page 27 lesson plans for each child and group the riders appropriately,” says Mur- phy. “We want our clients to develop independence in a place where people are valued.” The Canadian Therapeutic Riding Association-certified program fits well in the ethos and environment of Rohan Wood, where Cue has focused on building community and mentoring in her training and development programs for riders and beginning instructors. Some of the Rohan Wood instructors are now taking courses in therapeutic riding. “Last year, we had 72 clients. This year we’ve already serviced 104 clients with spring and fall programs and sum- mer camp,” says Murphy. “We are so full – and right now we only have 35 volunteers.” FSTRA is always looking for volunteers, and while experience with horses is useful, there is a solid training program for all volunteers with an emphasis on safety. “We have volunteers who come from as far away as Yarmouth and Halifax and we have a big group of older teens from the local high school,” says Murphy. As a volunteer herself, Murphy says the joy of watching children develop confidence and pleasure through their contact with the Rohan Wood horses is all the reward she needs.

A cheque for $25,000, so that I can go to Florida for a month and train. Cheryl Hodgin, Bloomfield, N.B., amateur hunter/jumper competitor

A new horse trailer that packs itself - or a new saddle – so I don’t have to share the nice one with my mother! Mitch Miller, 14, Port Williams, N.S. hunter/jumper rider and member of Annapolis Pony Club

A new trailer and truck to pull it with! Bev Saunders, Darlings Island, N.B., adult recreational Western rider

Page 28 | November 2014-January 2015 | ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY | November 2014-January 2015 | Page 29 Page 30 | November 2014-January 2015 | ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY Handmade Christmas ideas Custom Christmas Christmas Wreathes with Ornaments an Equine Twist Are you Brenda Bailey of looking for a Meander River Farm one-of-a-kind and Brewery in Ashdale, Christmas gift N.S., has always made handmade wreathes from fresh hop in Atlantic vines or from pine and fir Canada? Susan from the farm woodlot. Sweet of Animal Art in Maitland, Nova Scotia, creates Last Christmas, she custom Christmas ornaments of favorite horses and family created a horse head pets. All you have to do is email a photo to Sweet, and she wreath that was popular will sketch it out, cut the shape on Nova Scotia pine from with horse owners in the area. Bailey cuts the horse head her own woodlot, and then paint it perfectly. Sweet also has shape from a thin piece of plywood and paints it green. She a selection of generic animal ornaments that can be ordered. uses hemlock boughs to make the head, because hemlock If you are a horse husband who is bewildered by the array lays flat. She uses Scots pine for the mane and forelock, and of horse products available, you can order a gift certificate Christmas ribbon and beads give the bridle a festive look. for a custom portrait right up until Christmas Eve. Contact The materials are fresh, so wreathes will last for weeks. If Susan Sweet at [email protected] or through her you are looking for a handmade gift for a horse lover, contact blog at [email protected]. Bailey at [email protected].

ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY | November 2014-January 2015 | Page 31 Page 32 | November 2014-January 2015 | ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY | November 2014-January 2015 | Page 33 H o r s e s 2 4 / 7 A groom’s life – part two Alison Malatestinic – groom for Canadian Dressage champion David Marcus by Mary McIntosh Beyoncé, all of which are owned by and blankets, and organize appointments Canadian Olympian David Marcus is Marcus’s sponsor, Deborah Kinzinger. with the vet if they need vaccinations a top contender in international dressage or papers for travel, and manage their competitions in Canada, Europe, and the What’s a typical day like worming schedule. United States and operates a full-service for you? dressage training and sales facility in What are some of the main Campbellville, Ontario. In winter the Well, it’s definitely not a 9-to-5 job concerns of a professional barn moves to Wellington, Florida, because you have to stay until it’s done. groom? where Marcus and his students compete We start the day at about 6:30 am when in a highly-competitive international we’re not showing, and we try to finish A lot of people think that grooming show circuit. His head groom and a at 5 or 5:30 pm, but it depends on when means brushing and grooming the horse, key member of his team is Alison the horses are ridden. We all have our so I really think there should be a different Malatestinic, who grew up in Rothesay, specific tasks: someone gets the hay word for this job. For most grooms that’s New Brunswick. Malatestinic, 41, ready, someone soaks the grain, someone probably only about 10 percent of the day, has groomed for 15 years and has does the Gastroguard and then we start the although obviously you do have to brush also groomed for Michael Matz, an chores for the day. We walk the horses them, but with all the other stuff you have American Olympian, and American at least twice a day, we tack them up to do throughout the day, or think about, showjumper Meagan Johnstone. She and bathe them, we wrap their legs, and it’s the most basic, easiest part. now manages three grooms and cares some get turned out, some don’t. We Nutrition is important and it is very for Chevri’s Capital, Don Kontes, and also get the stalls mucked, we clean tack specific to each horse because each horse has a different body type, and different energy level, and tolerance to sugar or carbohydrates, so it’s the groom’s job, depending on how involved they are allowed to be, to recognize the differences between the horses and adjust or change the horse’s diet if they have that level of trust with the rider. It’s really the same as with people; some people have a different body type, and if you think about it that way it’s very easy. The feet are also very important, and it’s probably one of the most important things. Our horses are done every four to five weeks, and there are different oils and paints to put on them, depending on the feet. Some horses have hard feet, and some horses have soft feet, and some are shelly. It’s like a person’s fingernails, and hopefully with better nutrition the quality of their feet is a little better. They may also have a different shape of foot which will make them prone to different things, so a lot of the care is making sure their feet don’t crack, and making sure they are on a regular shoeing schedule, and working with the farriers. This is especially important at the upper levels, with the intensity of work, and the travel Alison Malatestinic with David Marcus and his Olympic mount Chevri's and the competitions. It’s also important Capital. (Mary McIntosh photo) to check the legs and monitor if they need

Page 34 | November 2014-January 2015 | ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY ice or have an old injury, and to be kind but you have to have a good relationship situation, so that kind of helps. A couple of sharp on that. with the rider because you spend the most of us play tennis, and I used to go to the time with them than with anyone. gym regularly. I haven’t recently, but I’ll Chevri’s Capital is a black go back to it. horse – does that make What’s the hardest part of keeping him tidy more the job? It sounds like grooming challenging? is a passion for most grooms. Well, it’s changed since I’ve gotten Capi (Chevri’s Capital) sweats a lot so older. Now I think it’s the travel because Yes, I think so. All of my friends are he gets hosed off every day and his legs we do a lot of shows in New York, different incredibly intelligent – they could be get washed with Silver Shampoo every shows around Ontario, and sometimes in doing other things, and we’ve all gone day, especially down in Florida because Germany, and at first it’s fun because you to university, so it’s a choice for most of all the bacteria, and his tail gets washed get to see all these different places and people. Maybe we’ve gotten away from two or three times a week with something meet different people but then you get it (grooming) for maybe a season, or half like Tresemme or Pantene, and we use your family of friends. That’s what’s nice a season, because we’ve been lured away Cowboy Magic Detangler and Shine. about Florida actually, because everybody by a five-day-a-week job, but we all just Then he gets groomed just like the other comes to one place and you kind of have keep coming back to it because we love horses – he gets curried, he gets brushed, a little bit of normalcy in that everyone the horses and we love the work. and you go over him with a damp towel is there. before he goes into the ring so it gets the last bit of dust off. Is it possible to have a personal life with the hours Is this a high-stress job, being and the travel? a groom for an Olympian? Two lessons a week. Yeah, you do, but you sometimes Lily Campbell, 11, We have a great team with David, and have to force yourself because it can be Charlottetown, P.E.I. our vet, and our farrier, and everybody tiring, but everyone is kind of in the same consults each other, and that’s very important, so that if something goes wrong, it’s not just one person who is handling the situation. David is very hands-on, in a good way, so he’s very involved, and we have a routine, but having said that, with Cap (Chevri’s Capital), as far as worrying, I worry about him because if there’s a one percent chance that there’s going to be a problem, it’s going to happen with him, but that’s not typical.

What’s the best part of your job?

It’s the horses – you get to know them, and they sort of feel like your horse. I’ve also been very lucky because I’ve always worked for great people – they’ve always cared about their horses – and they’ve always been good to their horses. They have always been their number-one priority. If they’re sick or if they’re hurt, whatever they need, they get, it’s not a case of passing over problems, nothing like that, and they’ve always been very thoughtful of their staff. You have a relationship with them, and they always thank you. You can disagree sometimes,

ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY | November 2014-January 2015 | Page 35 Newfoundland It was an amazing experience for all rested for six weeks. They arrived in & Labrador the provincial riders. Jenny Horsey- Nova Scotia in late September where Simpson was the team coach. the mares were placed on pasture in R E P O R T The Change Islands Boylston, Pictou, and Baddeck, and the with Ruth Story Newfoundland Pony Sanctuary stallions placed in temporary homes, held the grand opening of their beautiful thanks to the kindness of Nova Scotians. new 14-stall barn on September 6. The The herd consists of 10 mares and 10 group had been successful in winning stallions, ranging in age from four to Newfoundland the 2103 Aviva Community Fund 17 years old. “Bringing these ponies competition and received $90,000 to into the population in Newfoundland Ponies coming enhance their facilities and build a new represents a substantial boost to the barn. This funding allowed the sanctuary total number of Newfoundland Ponies, home to access an additional $90,000 from the which is estimated at around 400,” Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency said Cle Newhook, president of the (ACOA) and the provincial government. NPS. Members of the public can make Work continues to complete new fencing a donation to help with the upkeep The Newfoundland Equestrian and to seed the land before winter. of the ponies by contacting the NPS, Team competed in the Canadian Congratulations to Netta Ledrew, who which is a registered charity, at www. Interprovincial Equestrian has been the driving force behind the newfoundlandpony.com Championships (CEIC) in sanctuary for a number of years, as well The NL Pony Pals Project Blaineville, Quebec from October 3 to as the team who have been assisting her. have had a very busy summer and 5. Congratulations to Katrina Butler, The sanctuary was busy this summer fall, holding numerous fundraising Loni Atwood, Ashleigh Hudson, and with lots of visitors and tourists. events for the Debbie Bray Memorial Danielle Pike. The Newfoundland team Twenty Newfoundland Ponies, NL pony rescue/assistance fund and finished in seventh place overall, with that were facing an uncertain future assisting several Newfoundland Pony Butler taking an individual placing of on Vancouver Island, will be arriving owners. On August 17, the group held seventh place in senior reining on her back in Newfoundland in late October, an afternoon with the Newfoundland horse, Nacho, and Atwood placing thanks to the Newfoundland Pony Ponies event at Bay Roberts with sixth in senior dressage on her horse, Society (NPS) and support from pony rides, a ticket draw, t-shirt sales Whisper. Hudson rode a leased horse donors and volunteers. The ponies were and fundraising, which raised more in senior jumping while Pike competed transported to Alberta in July where than $1,200. On Sept. 18 and 19, the on her horse, Badger, in junior dressage. they were checked by veterinarians and group attended the Trinity/Conception Agriculture Fair and more than 700 school children had the opportunity to learn about the Newfoundland Pony and have their picture taken. The ponies were in Harbour Grace for a Newfoundland Pony Parade on Sept 20. The Newfoundland Ponies will be showcased at O’Neills Gardenland in Spaniards Bay at its Thanksgiving Festivities on Oct. 18. The project also assisted the Newfoundland Ponies of Cappahayden by hooking up a water line to their barn, and putting a new roof on the Dawson Farm Newfoundland Pony Haven in Bay Roberts. A special thank you is extended to artist and Newfoundland Pony advocate, Clifford George for donating a painting to raise funds. Embarr Stables in the Goulds have big plans in the near future. They currently have four Newfoundland Mila Major and her husband, Brad Hiscock, pose for a wedding photo with Ponies and hope to establish a breeding Duke of Cache Rapids Stable during their wedding reception in Reidville, Nfld- program to increase the number of Lab on October 11. (Ruth Story photos) critically endangered ponies. Plans

Page 36 | November 2014-January 2015 | ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY are also underway for an educational/ interpretative centre where school children, tourists, and the general public will have the opportunity to get close up and personal with these heritage ponies. Rainbow Riders in St. John’s is looking for volunteers to help with their therapeutic riding program on weekends. If you are interest in helping, please email [email protected]. The group hosted the annual Andrea Gillies Rainbow Riders Equestrian Challenge on August 17, which was a great success. Tremendous effort goes into raising funds to support their therapeutic riding program for young people with disabilities throughout Newfoundland and Labrador. Rainbow Riders would like to thank the employees Members of the Qalipu First Nation Band take a half day horse ride near Deer and social committee of the Grand Santa Lake, Nfld-Lab. Fe Grand Banks Drill Rig for their generous donation of $5,000 in July, the public. deeply saddened by the loss of two of Clowe Purcell & Friends Golf Classic Equine Meadows in the Goulds our elderly horses that were euthanized for raising over $10,000 in September, have started their fall lesson program. on August 19. Patches was a Pinto pony and the Exxon Mobile Hebron Project for The stable had a busy summer with in his mid-30s, blind in one eye, and his their $5,000 donation in September. The their children’s camps and lessons. The teeth had worn down to his gums years Tim Horton’s Smile Cooking Campaign Equine Meadows show team participated ago. Yogi was a 30-year-old Clydesdale- ran from September 15 to 21 with all in several of the horse shows in the area Newfoundland Pony cross. He was proceeds from the sale of Smile Cookies this summer. Kevin’s horse of Mantracker fame; in the St. John’s and surrounding areas Avalon Equestrian Centre in Kevin rode him in the Newfoundland going directly to Rainbow Riders. The Conception Bay South held a schooling Mantracker show in 2009. Both horses Rainbow Riders will also be one of the show on September 13, which was well taught many children to ride over the past charities to benefit from the Smiling attended. Their Travis Smith Clinic has 20-plus years in our children’s camps Land Foundation Rockin’ Big Give on been postponed until next spring. and riding lessons and will be greatly November 29 in Toronto. We continue to track Megan Lewis missed. Trail rides continue to be busy Kathie Lane of Adventure Farms in on her trip on horseback across North throughout the fall. Our most recent Grand Falls-Windsor has been extremely America through her blog. Lewis has group ride was with the Qalipu First busy this fall with the stable’s lesson reached Quebec where she learned that Nation Band in early October. The ride program. English Rider Level testing horses are not permitted on the Trans included a half-day ride for 12 women were scheduled for Oct.18 and 19 with Canada Trail. As a result, Megan has to the beach at Snug Harbour followed coach, Jessica Anstey. Our sincere had to recalculate her route. Kindly, by a smudging circle, campfire, and condolences are extended to Lane and Jacques Charlevoie has offered to lunch and everyone enjoyed their day. family on the sudden passing of their fetch Lady and Megan when they have We purchased a beautiful white carriage school horse, Bones, on September 12. finished travelling this autumn, and from Clifford George in September, and Clovelly Riding Stable in Logy transport them to Lady’s winter quarters now have added weddings to the list of Bay held their Annual Pink Ribbon at the International Equestrian Centre in services being offered at Cache Rapids Classic Horse show on September 27, Ottawa. Follow Lewis’ blog at http:// Stable. which was very well attended. The thelonghorseride.blogspot.ca show raised $2,105 to be donated to Our condolences are extended to Share your news from Newfoundland the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation veterinarian, Bev Dawe, on the loss and Labrador: Your club activities and along with an additional $525 from of her Quarter Horse and long time tidbits about Newfoundland people Clovelly’s Pink Pony rides on September companion, Stan, in early September. and horses. We would also love to receive photographs of you and your 15. On Nov. 1, Clovelly will be holding Bev acquired a new mount from Maggie horse. Write to Ruth Story at Box a Musical Freestyle and Fun show for Samms in October, a 3-year-old Quarter 3848, Deer Lake, NL A8A 3M2, email boarders and students that will include Horse named Sam. [email protected], or phone 709- costume classes and pony rides for the At Cache Rapids Stable, we were 635-5224.

ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY | November 2014-January 2015 | Page 37 Congress in Ohio, the Morgan World and joy of teaching will be very much Championships in Oklahoma, the missed as she moves on to her next New Percheron World Congress in Maine, equine adventure. Best wishes from all and the Canadian Interprovincial of us in New Brunswick on a continued Brunswick Equestrian Championships in Quebec. bright career in the horse industry. R E P O R T These shows demonstrated the talent New Brunswick Percherons made of riders and horses we have here at their mark at the Percheron World with Carolyn Wanamaker home. As we settle in for winter with Congress. The live feed broadcasts our horses, now is the time to start made it possible for fans at home to cheer planning our equine goals for 2015. on the participants in some exciting After many years of contributing classes. Horses from Landslide Farms Moving up to the New Brunswick horse scene, (Matthew and Brenda Hornbrook), well-known Level 2 English coach Storeyvale Farm (John and Kim Storey), and moving Ally Sillers has returned to Ontario. and Eastwind Percherons (the Lyons Sillers certainly left her mark on Family) competed at the Congress. on equestrians in New Brunswick. She This great event showcased Percherons originally moved to the province to in harness and under saddle, and even coach at the Rothesay Pony Club, later featured Percheron barrel racing. moved to the Fredericton Pony Club, Congratulations to all who made the A beautiful fall ha more New and then opened Callander Hall Stables trek to West Springfield, Maine. Brunswick equestrians than ever in New Maryland. It is hard to say how Rayna and Ryson Doucet of involved in horse adventures. Fall is many students got their start in riding Lakeville, N.B., will also be making the the time of year for some of the largest under her watchful eye. For several drive to West Springfield to participant events in the horse show world, and years Sillers also volunteered her time in two events at Equine Affaire. Ryson New Brunswick participants travelled with the New Brunswick Equestrian and his barrel horse, Gangster, will be far and wide with their equine partners Association as the English coaching riding in the Lynn McKenzie clinic, and to events such as the Quarter Horse coordinator. Her hallmark enthusiasm his young horse, Riot, will participate

Landslide Farms (Matthew and Brenda Hornbrook), Storyeyvale Farm (John and Kim Storey), and Eastwind Percherons (the Lyons Family). (Lynn Cassels – Caldwell photo)

Page 38 | November 2014-January 2015 | ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY in the Chris Cox colt-starting clinic. If program because proper riding technique Nature on their side, as this area was you are headed to Equine Affaire, be is best developed with the aid of an one of few to avoid Arthur’s wrath. sure to watch these two New Brunswick accredited instructor. Achieving rider On Saturday, Tango, ridden by Jim horses at work. levels is a great goal. Contact the NBEA Burns of Petiticodiac, took home first Dressage in New Brunswick to get started in this program. place in Conditioning, while Shadow, (DNB) is on fire. Eight DNB members NBEA President, Deanna Phelan, owned and ridden by Chester Gillen recently travelled to Saugerties, New and Mike King, owner of Intercity of P.E.I., won the coveted Trail Horse York, to compete at the Horse Show Insurance, toured New Brunswick award. Gillen and Shadow swept both in the Sun on the Hudson Centerline in October, talking with equestrians categories on the second day. The Event. Tiffany Dalton riding Ducati from all disciplines. Phelan spoke Kiss My Axe ride held in Temperance (third level), Lexie LeBlanc riding Slip about the many programs offered by Vale, N.B., was another new stop on ’n’ Slide (third level), Nistelle Laundry the Association, while King fielded the ride circuit. Riders raved about the riding Classified (first level), Maggie questions on the complicated topic of gorgeous trails and wonderful prizes. Zinck riding Figaro CB (first level), horse insurance. One of the benefits of Ann Bridges and Majik took home the Donna McInnis riding Dubwanna an NBEA membership is the opportunity overall award for the two days of riding. (training level), and Erin MacQuarrie to be covered by an insurance policy The Fredericton Pony Club has riding Ford (training level) did a great specifically geared to equestrians. been re-established at Shadow Lane job representing New Brunswick. Earlier The basic coverage provides members Farm, 64 Smith Road, in Hanwell, N.B. in the summer, Alyssa Gaudet and with $5,000,000 in personal liability This small, privately-owned property her horse, Palladio, represented New insurance if you are sued by a third is 11 kilometers from Prospect Street, Brunswick in Kentucky at the North party because a horse you own or lease an easy drive from either the Hanwell American Young Riders Championships causes property damage or bodily injury Road or by the Trans-Canada Highway (NAJRYC). Gaudet rode as a member to a third party. This coverage applies to the Mazerole Settlement Road. Pony of the Junior Team for Canada. New 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and Club is more than just riding – it’s a Brunswick also sent a dressage team to covers the member anywhere in the program designed to help children learn the Canadian Interprovincial Equestrian world. There is also $30,000 in accident, everything there is to know about horses, Championships in Blainville, Quebec. death, or dismemberment coverage. and the opportunity to try the different The team came home with the bronze Insurance is just one of the benefits disciplines of the sport, such as show- medal, and Allison Stewart and Declan of joining this provincial equestrian jumping, dressage, eventing, and the came home with a win. Check out the association. tetrathalon. Most importantly, it also DNB website for all the details and scores The Western Valley Equestrian provides connections to other horse- at www.dressagenb.com. Association (WVEA) hosted Phelan crazy youth. You do not have to own New Brunswick also sent a and King at a fun luncheon at the a horse or pony to join Pony Club, and jumper team to the Canadian Wicklow Agriculture Service Centre you do not have to take riding lessons Interprovincial Equestrian in Wicklow, near Florenceville, N.B. – you just have to have an interest in Championships in Blainville, The WVEA provided the lunch. Phelan horses. For more information, visit www. Quebec. Molly Smith, Susan Pyke, and presented recreational grants to two local frederictionponyclub.net. two junior riders, Alex Jamael and Erica clubs, the Equestrian Trails and Shows Sadly, New Brunswick has lost one of Forgeron, had to battle through some Association of Woodstock, N.B., and the its most enthusiastic equine supporters. difficult footing when rains soaked the Valley Horse & Saddle Club (VHSC) Camiel (Cam) Rabaey of Douglas, jumper ring. Nevertheless, the team of Perth-Andover, N.B. Both clubs N.B., passed away in September, leaving came home with some good results applied for infrastructure grants to help behind a legacy of Quarter Horses. and the riders had a great experience them continually upgrade their show Rabaey and his family successfully riding as part of a team. Overall, New grounds. The VHSC took advantage raised and showed Quarter Horses Brunswick finished in fifth place out of of this opportunity to present their club and beagles for many years. Rabaey’s eight competing provinces, despite not year-end awards. beloved stallion, Duly, stood at stud having a reining team in the competition. Distance riders have been busy in for many years in New Brunswick. The New Brunswick Equestrian New Brunswick this summer. In early Many Facebook postings were filled Association (NBEA) is once again July, a new ride was held at Donna with tributes for this beloved horseman. planning many exciting programs for Lee Cole’s farm in Coburg, near Condolences go out to his daughter, Lori 2015. The NBEA strongly promotes Port Elgin, N.B. Despite the weather Appt, and to the rest of the Rabaey family. the National Rider Level program. warnings due to hurricane Arthur, six This program is offered to both English dedicated riders rode 25 miles on Sat., Share your news from New Brunswick: your horse events, news, and nuggets. and Western riders and is a systematic July 5, and three rode on Sun., July Phone Carolyn Wanamaker at 506-273- method of teaching equestrian sports 6. With barely 30 minutes of rain on 3539, email [email protected], and the basics of good riding. An Equine Saturday morning and breezy moderate or write 6196 Route 130, Bairdsville, Canada certified coach teaches the winds, the riders seemed to have Mother NB E7H 3T8.

ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY | November 2014-January 2015 | Page 39 three shows, and a Travis Smith clinic. Clinic, which sold out, at Horseshoe Prince Edward Planning for clinics and shows for the Shoals on Sept. 27 - 28 in Malpeque. 2015 season is already underway. JUMP PEI hosted a Jumper Jack- Island Dressage PEI held a freestyle pot Show on Sept. 20 at Strathgartney R E P O R T clinic with Tamara Williamson of and will finish the season with their Kurboom Music (www.kurboom. Halloween Spooktacular show on with Jana Hemphill com) on Oct. 11 at the Crapaud Nov. 1 at Bonwell Park. Agriplex. Williamson has prepared Horse Trials PEI finished its successful freestyles for Jacqueline season with a well-attended Autumn Brooks for her win and Ashley Horse Trials on Sept. 13 at Strathgart- Busy show Holtzer’s third place kur at Devon, ney. As well, Strathgartney Park has and Brooks’ most recent win at Sau- been entered in the AVIVA Commu- season on gerties, New York, in September. nity Fund contest to help raise some There was a classroom presentation much-needed capital for upgrades to the Island in the morning to review different the aging facility. The contest relies freestyle videos, and to discuss how on votes, so if you would like to help to prepare a freestyle to suit the horse Strathgartney Park, visit the link: As the days grow shorter and the and rider. After lunch, four local rid- https://www.avivacommunityfund. days cooler, it might seem like the ers mounted up so Williamson could org/ideas/acf20555 and vote daily. horse activities in P.E.I. would be compare the styles of the horses, and The Emerald Island Hunt winding down, but nothing could be discuss music and patterns suitable to Club’s (EIHC) Charity Hunter Pace to further from the truth. Aileron Stables, the horse and rider team. benefit the PEI Breast Cancer Informa- in Belfast, P.E.I., hosted the Mari- The Western Horse Associa- tion Partnership was held on Sun. Oct. time Hanoverian Inspection tion had a great turnout for their 5 at the Brookvale Ski Park. The EIHC on Sun., Sept. 2. A total of 10 foals Heritage show on Sept. 20 and the also hosted a turkey and goose shoot on were in the Inspection with mares and Association also hosted a Jeff Temple Oct. 13 and a Hunting with the Hounds, foals coming in from Nova Scotia and New Brunswick. The Mare Performance Test win- ner was Danika (Diamond Hit/Welt- meyer), owned by Paulette Jones, and bred by Kareen Heineking-Schütte. The champion mare was Diamond Days (Diamond Hit/Romancero H), owned by Shannon Brooks, and bred by Kathleen Richardson. The champion jumper foal was an em- bryo transfer colt named Sambuca (Schwarzenegger/Landkonig), owned by Jennifer and Chris Versteeg, and bred by Aileron Stables. The final ring for dressage foals included the lovely filly Surprise (Sir Gregory/ Donnerschlag), bred and owned by Doug Lynch and Carol Macomber, the super sweet Svenja (Schwarzenegger/ Weltruhm), bred by Aileron Stables and owned by Kimberly Pennie, and the handsome champion foal Winsloe (Wolkentanz II/Sir Oldenburg), bred by Aileron Stables, and owned by Annette MacQuarrie. The Island Reining Horse Association will be wrapping up a busy year with their awards dinner in Dr. Nicole MacHattie and her mount, A Second Thought, travelled from the November. The season consisted of a Valley in N.S. to compete in the Open Entry Level at the Autumn Horse Trials series of clinics by Phillip Theberge, at Strathgartney, P.E.I. (Pam MacKenzie photo)

Page 40 | November 2014-January 2015 | ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY with members of the Annapolis Valley Hunt on Oct 17 – 19. They will also host a Mock Fox – Tailgate breakfast on Sun., Oct. 26. The Murder Mystery Hunt is scheduled for Nov. 2, followed by events on Nov. 9, Nov. 16, and Nov. 23. For more information contact Hunt Master Pat Uptegrove at hummingbird- [email protected] PEI 4-H is hosting their annual fundraiser. You can support Island clubs by ordering ADL cheese, Island Gold Honey, Prince Edward Island Preserves Company gift sets, or Anne Safira (Schwarzenegger/World Cup IV/Matcho AA) bred by Aileron Stables of Green Gables Fudge until Oct. 31. was enjoying the Maritime Hanoverian Inspection in September. She is shown Contact a local club member or call kicking up her heels with her 22-year-old mom, EM Werra and handler, Nick the PEI 4-H office at 866-308-833. Graham. (Reg Corkum photo) Prince Edward Island has also added several new farms and trainers to its roster this season. Chelsey Barrett, daughter of John and Kathy Barrett, has returned from Texas and has opened Barrett Performance Horses in Hunter River. She will offer training, riding lessons, and colt start- ing. Shane Bernard and Amanda Hickey have opened Horseshoe Shoals Stable in Malpeque, P.E.I. which was formerly Two Bit Ranch. The farm offers beautiful views of Malpeque Bay and access to the beach. Laura MacDougall has moved from Nova Scotia to P.E.I.to open Sea- glass Stables in Breadalbane, P.E.I., which was formerly Echo Ridge. She is offering boarding and lessons. Venture Stables in Freetown is also under new ownership and offers lessons, boarding and a tack shop on site. Finally, the Annual Island Horse Council Gala and Awards Banquet is scheduled for Sat. Nov. 8 for the Rodd Hotel in Charlottetown. Contact your Island Horse Council representative for ticket information. The next time we meet the snow will have begun. I would love to hear all about your winter horse adventures.

Jana Hemphill is a journalist by trade, and a horse lover by heart. Hemphill owns and operates Storybook Stables in Brookfield, P.E.I., with her husband and three children. Please send in your P.E.I.- related news, club activities, photos, and events to storybookstables1@hotmail. Tammy Smith and Grizelda at the Autumn Horse Trials at Strathgartney, P.E.I. com or phone 902-621-2029. (Pam MacKenzie photo)

ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY | November 2014-January 2015 | Page 41 April Haliburton of Shubena- awarded High Point Youth. At the 4-H Nova Scotia cadie, N.S., an Atlantic Canada Trail Pro Show in Truro, N.S., on Sept. 27 R E P O R T Riding Association member, completed - 28, 10 members of MHANS gave an the Vermont 100 mile competition in outstanding performance in a field of with Judith Scrimger 20 hours on her Arabian horse, Elastic, approximately 24 provincial competi- which is quite an achievement. There tors. Throughout the summer, members were 30 entries, with 25 completing the also competed in exhibitions in P.E.I. ride, which was held on July 19. Hali- and N.S. Ardith Hatch organized the Achieving burton’s better half, Vernon Leighton, mini-horse division at the Pictou-North pit crewed with friend Sylvia Gillies Colchester Exhibition. Larry Marshall new from New Brunswick. of Pictou, N.S., on Socks, was the High Old Bull Farms (OBF) in Brook- Point rider at the show, and Jeannie milestones lyn, N.S., is proving once again that MacLean led the field on Sunday at top-quality horses are bred in the At- the same venue. Amanda Huybers of lantic Region. OBF received the high- Upper Nine Mile River, with her mini, est scores in the filly, colt and three to Daisy, tied for High Point at the Hants Every discipline and every club and six-year-old mare divisions at the 2014 County Exhibition in Windsor. For organization in Nova Scotia seems to North American Keuring for Belgian more information and meeting dates have held an event or clinic over the last Warmbloods. visit the MHANS web page at www. few months with many riders achieving The Miniature Horse Associa- mhans.ca. new milestones. tion of Nova Scotia (MHANS) The Annapolis Valley Hunt Para – Dressage competitor Nel concluded its show season at the Truro (AVH) hosted a fashion show at Luck- Godin-Keating of Dartmouth, Exhibition grounds in August. There ett’s Vineyard in Gaspereau, N.S. this Nova Scotia, showed her Haflinger, were 35 members in the show with Jean- fall to raise money to maintain their Mr. Itchy, to a fourth-place ranking nie MacLean of Miscouche, P.E.I. and kennel of foxhounds. The event sold on the Canadian long list for national Sir Gallahad winning High Point Adult, out, and featured a fashion show of para-dressage. They were also the and Samantha Langer and Westin, of both equestrian and fashion clothing, New Brunswick champions for their North Wiltshire, P.E.I., winning High modeled on the catwalk by members division, and that finish could move Point Youth. The Club’s Antigonish of the hunt. Hounds Salty and Tulie them up in the national rankings. Show attracted 16 adults and 15 youths. often accompanied the models and Godin-Keating is the youngest rider Jeannie MacLean was again awarded demonstrated the lovely traits of these on the long list, and is the only one High Point Adult, and Fiona MacKenzie well-bred animals. east of Alberta. of Scotsburn, N.S., with Lil Jiminy, was The members of the AVH are certainly dedicated to their hounds. At a hunt on Thanksgiving weekend, Timber, one of the hounds, got lost and concern about the dog grew as it was becoming dark. Timber was stuck over the edge of a cliff near Blomi- don, making it difficult to find him. Eventually, the Master of the Hunt, Paul Johnston, located Timber’s GPS signal when he crossed the bay at the bottom of the cliff by boat. Johnston gave step-by-step directions to the road whip, Martina Melenchuk Christie, and her husband John, who, were searching for the dog on the cliff. Eventually, well after dark, they made it to the edge of the cliff where John anchored Martina, who lowered herself over the edge of the cliff and pulled Timber to safety. Cow working events are gaining popularity in the Maritimes. Nikki Woolaver of Amherst, N.S. says many Coveside Classic 1.25M champion Molly Brisco with Let's Dance. well bred and well trained cows and (Equiluminance - Claire Milton Photography) horses are now being imported and bred

Page 42 | November 2014-January 2015 | ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY in the region so there is lots of talent to tap into. Lately, ranch excellent fifth-place finish. Alissa Cue was the team coach. sorting seems to be taking off with clinics being offered by Shelley Scott-Rector, president of the Annapolis professionals, and events that use a rider-draw system that Valley Harness Club, entered the Drive and Ride class at the is welcoming to novices, providing plenty of opportunities Hants County Exhibition for the first time and took home for people to get involved. Vaughn and Dianne Melanson, first place with her beautiful Fjord mare, Freya. The entrants of Rocking Horse Ranch in Amherst, N.S., schedule events in this class compete in pleasure driving, stop in the ring to throughout the winter. M&N Sorting is offering a series unhitch their horses, tack them up to ride, and then compete of six shows from November to April. in pleasure riding. The members of the Nova Scotia Pony Club were Congratulations to Joan Grant of Antigonish and Non- busy travelling this summer. A team made up of Jocey Stop Bayboy on winning the 2014 Ram Rodeo Tour 25th Peters, Hannah Foote, and Delaney Mackenzie placed Anniversary Silver Buckle Series. The Maritime Barrel second overall at the National Rally in Ontario. Elora Racing Association had another highly competitive Oliver, Robin Gorveatte, Hannah Benedict, Sarah Hall, season in 2014 with over 40 horses and riders competing at and Maggie Dewar travelled to Lindsay, Ont., to compete most of the eight Ram Rodeo tour stops across the Maritimes. in the Prince Philip Games. Although none of them had Maritime Chrysler dealers have offered strong sponsporship previously competed at the national level, they had an and support of the tour since it’s beginning at Albert County Exhibition in New Brunswick. Today the Maritime Barrel Racing Association has over 200 members. For information visit www.maritimebarrelracing.com. Coveside Classic has quickly become the biggest hunter-jumper equestrian event in Atlantic Canada. Over 175 entries took part in this year’s show August 20-24. Competitors say they love the Classic because of the world class facilities and service as well as the breathtaking views of Chester Basin from Haddon Hill. New this year were the Hunter and Jumper Nations Cup classes, both hugely popular with competitors and spectators. Danica Ellis and Barrington took home top honours in the $5,000 Dexter Construction- Jump Canada Hunter Classic. Jill Swain and Fiamo won the $5,000 Mercedes Benz Grand Prix. Please share your news with us for the next issue. The deadline is early December. Kim Beaton’s 4-year-old Quarter Horse mare, Smartiny, won the Ranch Horse Pleasure Class at the Ride and Slide Show this summer. Smartiny’s sire is Royal Chic Olena If your club or stable has news to share, contact Judith. and the dam is Talkin Smart Ollie. (Doris MacLeod photo) [email protected] or call 902-757-3789.

Emily Potter, three-year-old, enters a long and proud The Avon Pony Club fielded the first place team in the tradition of riders from the Potter family as she waves “D-Challenge” provincial competition this August. The to her parents after completing the leadline class at the full Avon team includes, back row, left to right, Haylee Avon Pony Club show in Windsor, N.S. Her mentor is her Rafuse, Marina Crowell, and Shay Berkvens. In front are aunt, Jackie Rusaw, who operates Coveside Stables in Emily Maynard and Maddy Fleming. Chester, N.S. (Judith Scrimger photo) (Judith Scrimger photo)

ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY | November 2014-January 2015 | Page 43 Page 44 | November 2014-January 2015 | ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY Atlantic Horse & Pony Classified Advertisements

EQUIPMENT

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FOR SALE: Small wagon with 20” iron spoke wheels with grease fittings on hubs, ideal for stationary engines. Email [email protected].

FOR SALE: Pot bellied stove, Radiant no. 10, 30” high, Enterprise Foundry; 100-plus-year-old sewing machine, mahogany case, metal crest with RC and last four letters look like MOND; scythe, wood handle. Phone 902-923- 2800.

FOR SALE: Trailer for farm tractor for hauling firewood, pulpwood, or logs, $350. Phone 902-682-2706.

ABOUT CLASSIFIED ADS Subscribers are invited to run four, non- commercial classified ads free per year. NOTE: “Free ads” may be edited. Horse names and pedigrees cannot be included. Please be concise when describing horses or other articles for sale. It’s Easy by Internet Now you can submit classified ads via our website at www.RuralLife.ca or AtlanticHorseandPony.com. Click on “Post Classifieds.” Subscriber free ads must be identified. Include your full name, postal code, telephone number, subscription expiry date. Classifieds may be edited. No third party ads accepted. Real estate, stallions at stud, and sale of horses and equipment by breeders, dealers, and equine businesses are considered commercial. The rate for commercial ads is 75 cents per word, $20 minimum plus 15 percent HST. Include payment with ad. Classified ads also accepted by mail: Horse & Pony, Box 1509, Liverpool, NS B0T 1K0.

ATLANTIC HORSE & PONY | November 2014-January 2015 | Page 45 Directory of advertisers Aaron Martin Harness Ltd...... 44 Adventure Canada...... 32 Animat...... 7 Annapolis Valley Peat Moss...... 16 bits N bridles...... 29 Buddy Incorporated...... 12 Clarence Farm Services Limited...... 46 Co-op Country Store...... 20 D & D Stables...... 30 Dalhousie University/Faculty of Agriculture...45 Dartmouth Chrysler Jeep Dodge...... 30 Equestrian Factory Outlet...... 6, 44 Equine Health - Natural Alternative Grazers.....35 Five Fires Equestrian/Britespan...... 16 Furry Friends Inn...... 31 Gallagher...... 28 Galloway Stables...... 44 Greenhawk...... 21 Hampton Riding Centre...... 30 Hippologik...... 6 Mega Dome...... 23 Megan White Realty...... 44 MIP Show & Livestock Supply...... 44 N.S. Equestrian Federation...... Inside back North Stream Farm Tack Shop...... 44 Nova Tree...... 6 Ogilvy Equestrian Inc...... 5 Omega Alpha...... 17 Phillips Agri Services...... 10 Picket Hill Equestrian Centre...... 30 Professional Farrier Services...... 30 Pureform...... Front cover Reta's House of Fashion...... 11 Road Apples Inc...... 13 Sackville Harness Ltd...... 29 Scotian Gold Country Store...... 8 Slow Feed Netting...... 7 SSG Riding Gloves...... Back cover STMS Manufacturing Ltd...... Inside front Stuart Appt Horse Transportation & Auction Center...... 46 System Fencing...... 27 Tarp-Rite Inc...... 4 The Horse Habit...... 45 TS Performance Horses...... 31 Valley Flax Flour...... 8 Wahl...... Inside front Waynes Saddlery Boot & Harness Ltd...... 44 Whoa Dust...... 13 To Advertise Call 902-354-2500

(Melissa Yantzi photo) Subscribe today to Horse & Pony and $ave! atlantichorseandpony.com or phone 1-877-354-3764.

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