Raising Your Equine Experience To A Higher Level 2021 Summer Issue— Volume 22 No. 3

Cowboys for Cops 4th Annual Trail Ride to be in Oak Grove, MO

Read more on Page 4 2 BETTER HORSES

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Hello friends! I hope all of you have been doing well and getting in some riding time. I am burning the midnight oil trying to finish up this issue. It is so good to see people getting out and horse events ramping up with good Inside this Issue... numbers. Page 4 Missouri Town of Oak Grove to Host the 2021 Make sure you check out our website and utilize our Better Horses Kansas City Cowboys for Cops Trail Ride Calendar of Events, IT’S FREE. Go to www.betterhorses.com. Also, did Page 6 Maximize Your Potential: Six Steps to Successs you know you can listen to our Better Horses Radio Show 24/7 if you wish? Page 10 Western Art Corner: John Keeling Check out our podcast by going to podcast and typing in Better Horses with Page 13 ‘Age Is Meaningless’ When Deciding Whether to Ernie & Dawn, then bam, there we are. Also make sure you check out our Retire An ‘Old’ Horse Better Horses TV Show, we are Nationwide on RFDTV and the Cowboy Fly Control Tips for Happy, Health Horses Channel. Page 15 We are excited to see that the Cowboys For Cops Parade is back but Page 18 Longest Employee At Bluestem Farm & Ranch has moved to Oak Grove, Missouri! (See story on page 4 and sign up to Page 20 Show Pen Maintenance participate.) Page 22 Genetic Diseases of Quarter Horses and Congratulations to all the exhibitors that showed in Guthrie, Oklahoma Related Breeds at the Lazy E in the Versatility Ranch Horse Show. A huge turnout! The NVRHA will host another Finals this September 24-26 in Lincoln, NE. & Many More! (see ad on page 14) For advertising Information contact: Join us for the 22nd Annual Dream Ride In the Flint Hills this October Ernie Rodina Ed Adams 785-418-6047 816-830-1998 29th, 30th, & 31st at the Clover Cliff Ranch. Information is on page 11. We [email protected] [email protected] hope you can join us at this great place with great people. There are a limited number of horses available to lease. Connie Rodina Jennifer Mitchell, Graphic Designer 785-418-2615 913-485-6495 Let me know if there is anything myself or Better Horses can do for you. [email protected] [email protected] Keep your eyes and heart focused on Jesus Christ Our Savior. Believe me, it is amazing on what HE can do for you. Taking Your Horse Experience to a Higher Level Happy Trails & God Bless! Subscribe to:

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Method of Payment: Check Money Order Charge my Credit Card: Mastercard Visa Card # Exp. Date Name: Address: City/State/Zip: Phone: Email: (You can always subscribe at www.betterhorses.com) Return this form with payment to: Better Horses, LLC, P.O. Box 11794, Kansas City, MO 64138. 4 BETTER HORSES Missouri Town of Oak Grove to Host the 2021 Kansas City Cowboys for Cops Trail Ride

On Saturday, August 14, 2021, the scenic areas. It is the home to many “We welcome everyone and Jackson County Sheriff’s Mounted rodeos. appreciate the support given to Posse (www.jcsmp.org) will host our first responders,” said Chief the 4th Annual Cowboys for Cops “This year the Cowboys for of Police Mike Childs. all horse trail ride celebrating the Cops trail ride gives your horse the states bicentennial. Sponsored by the unique experience of a small-town Pat Gostigan – President of and the ties that bind us together. Oak Grove Historical Society (www. parade environment. Even if you the Oak Grove Historical Society, What better way to celebrate than oakgrovehistory.com) every Cowboy have never been in a parade, this explained that August 10, 2021, will to have an old time trail ride in Oak and Cowgirl is invited to mount up and practice provides your horse with officially mark the two hundredth Grove. ride for law enforcement. a herd for calmness with trained anniversary of Missouri’s entry as the outriders available to assist anyone in 24th state to enter Oak Grove, Missouri, in Jackson This downtown trail ride will begin need”, explained Deputy Kelly Sitter the United States. county, is located 25 miles east of the staging at 8:00am at Frick Park McComb of the Mounted Posse. By celebrating the Kansas City, Missouri. The city is located at 801 SW 12 Street, Oak accomplishments part of the Kansas City metropolitan Grove, MO, 64075. Frick Park With a suggested donation of and diversity statistical area (MSA). has 57 acres of land located on the $20.00, the Oak Grove Police and the of all these west end of town. There is a lighted Jackson County Sheriff’s Department regions, we help “We are proud to keep up this equestrian arena, a pavilion with will provide a rolling escort around the create a better tradition of Kansas City Cowboys for picnic tables, restrooms, and large historical downtown of Oak Grove. understanding of our one Missouri Cops”, said Sheriff Darryl Forte of the Jackson County Sheriff’s Department. Our Deputies look forward every year in assisting with the rolling escort.

Ed Adams, Captain of the Mounted Posse, shared, “The Sheriff’s Posse 100 (www.posse100.org) charter is to support law-enforcement, their families and first responders who have been severely injured or to the dependent family of those who have died in the line of duty. This includes helping with immediate financial obligations”. 2021 Summer Issue 5

The Jackson County Sheriff’s and Jackson County had a real gun- Delivering to the Sheriff’s office Mounted Posse was organized with toting law enforcement group. The assistance without compensation the interested citizens of Jackson original group was all deputized. from the taxpayers. Many, but not all County in 1947 and chartered by the members, are mounted on horseback State of Missouri in June of 1949. Celebrating its 73rd anniversary, with training to assist in areas the Members of the Posse consist inaccessible by car or on foot. The Mounted Posse is reminiscent of accomplished riders serving the of the groups of mounted deputies citizens of Jackson County. Under For more information, contact who roamed the hills of Jackson the auspices of the Sheriff’s office Deputy Kelly Sitter McComb (816) County in the days of Jesse James. it is a Para-military organization, in 547-9508. Or see the facebook page The original Posse was the first time that there is a chain-of-command. “Kansas City Cowboys for Cops”. in nearly thirty years that Kansas City The members are all volunteers. 6 BETTER HORSES that task I want it to do. When it Maximize Your Potential: Six Steps to Success doesn’t, I need to correct that horse By Merle Arbo according to its level of training. Just as you discipline a fifteen-year-old kid One of the potential isn’t maximized or the as it fits what you are doing. When differently than you do a five-year-old, most often performance is less than a hundred you have to slow the song down or the same theory applies to horses. asked questions percent of that horse’s ability. speed it up, that means the rhythm Next, after that horse performs the as a judge and This reliance of speed as the sole has changed and you need to adjust task you ask, consistently reward that trainer is “How means of feedback can mean a accordingly. As your horse gets horse. Much like you don’t expect can I improve horse is pushed too fast like a spin more and more rhythm, it becomes the same thing out of a fifteen-year- my horse’s in a horsemanship or reining pattern, more automatic, more predictable, old and a five-year-old, you shouldn’t performance?” or in a flatfoot or running walk with and that takes us into our next topic: expect the same out of a young horse. While there the gaited breeds. On the other end consistency. Gradually increase your expectations generally aren’t any quick fixes, I’ve of a spectrum, a western pleasure as your horse learns the task. taken the time to outline six ways you horse’s trot and lope can be too slow Consistency I see many riders and horses get can improve you and your horse’s and throttled back. Either way, the Another important characteristic of frustrated because the rider knows performance this show season. integrity of the gait or maneuver is a good performance is consistency. what the horse should do, but doesn’t Rhythm, consistency, preparation, compromised. Speed, or lack of Many times you’ll overhear someone get that horse to do it. An important image, attitude, and priorities are a speed, is only desirable if the gait on the rail say, “I know who’s going to part in this early stage is rewarding vital part of any successful program. or maneuver is correct. After a gait win this class,” or “That horse always the try. I liken a horse to a little kid Over the next few issues we’ll look or maneuver is correct, speed then wins.” Why do they say that? That many times because it is an analogy closer at each one of these keys to shows the degree of difficulty. horse and rider are good at their that is easy to grasp. If you chastise see how to improve performance. Just like people though, not all jobs and dependable every time. a little kid over and over eventually Let’s get started! horses have the same degree of Consistency is not hard to spot, but they give up and quit trying. The rhythm, but an effective rider can hard to attain. same is true for horses. When you Get Rhythm enhance rhythm in their horse. The As discussed earlier, rhythm are first teaching a new maneuver to Johnny Cash, a ballroom dancer, a first step is to be aware. Think will lend itself to consistency your horse, reward that horse when good golf swing, and a great horse all of yourself as a metronome or a because rhythm is a consistent it tries. Positive reinforcement along have one thing in common. Given the drummer in a band. Your job is to beat. Therefore, in theory at least, with gentle correction helps keep that topic, you’ve probably already figured keep your partner on the beat. When a talented horse with correct rhythm horse in a willing and positive attitude. out the answer, rhythm. Regardless you are working your horse, think, “1- should be easy to teach consistency. After you have introduced the task of the breed or the event, to me one 2-3-4, 1-2-3-4,” or “1-2, 1-2” or “1-2-3, Let’s take consistency a step farther and the horse is improving, there is of the most important factors in a 1-2-3,” whatever the gait or maneuver than our equine companion and look no substitute for repetition, but vary good performance is rhythm. dictates the rhythm should be. at a consistent rider. Horses, many your routine slightly too. Horses, A western lope, a showmanship Also, be aware of changes. These times, mirror their rider in both good like riders, will become stagnant if or horsemanship turn, a rollback, a changes alert a rider that something ways and bad. I’ve seen horses you don’t vary your routine. Don’t foxtrot or running walk, all have a is changing before it actually does. A whose rider was quick tempered quantify your routine such as: we’re certain rhythm to them. Study the good rider should be proactive rather and over reacted, exhibit the exact going to lope ten circles to the right footfall of the horse; a horse with than reactive. Many times, I can see same qualities. On the positive side today or practice that back through good rhythm is fun and easy to watch. a horse that is getting ready to break of that I’ve seen proficient, effective fifteen times. Maybe your horse does Their next move comes reliably and gait before it does because its rhythm riders that have good rhythm and are it perfectly the first five times. You with predictability. changes and slows down or speeds consistent, produce horse after horse still have ten more times to go. Are A good horseman has rhythm up. A proactive rider can make that excel in competition. you riding to reward the positive or also. They use their aids, such changes to get the horse back in the As a trainer, I expect that horse to trapping that horse into making a as their legs, hands, and seat, in ideal rhythm. give me its full attention, but in return mistake? On the other end of that rhythm with the horse to enhance Often when I’m riding, I’m humming I owe that horse my full attention. I maybe you’ve loped ten circles or that horse’s performance. One of or thinking about a song in my head need to be consistent with my cues, backed through fifteen times and it the biggest mistakes riders make is that is the same rhythm as what I’m my corrections, my rewards, and my was awful from the first to the last they use speed as feedback rather doing. It doesn’t matter if it is Folsom expectations. I need to ask that horse time. Does that mean you are done than rhythm. As a result, the horse’s Prison Blues or Crazy Train as long the same way every time to perform because you accomplished your goal 2021 Summer Issue 7 for that day? Don’t put a number on that work at Disney World. I’m sure of the horse show but the week or Sometimes little details that how many times. Ride until there is they are really excited the first few two before. I will try to have the are hard to pinpoint make a big improvement, and always end on a days they work there, taking in all the horse ready for everything that will difference. One particular horse positive note. Gradually increase your sights and sounds. After while the be asked of it in the class. I’ll study I had was a really nice pleasure expectations. new wears off and they soon get tired that horse’s response to certain bits. horse, but I noticed at the end of his Now that you’ve mastered rhythm of looking. Your horse will get tired If I find one I like, I’ll save it back and class he would kick at his belly when and your horse (and you) are getting of looking also. The horse show just usually show in it. I’ll remember what anyone touched him with spur. He consistent, it’s time to think about becomes another day at work. specific exercises I did with that horse didn’t care about how light the touch going to a horse show so, we need to Another way to prepare your the week or two before and which was or using different rowels, as prepare! horse for the event is to simulate ones helped and which didn’t. Maybe I experimented with both. I rarely situations at home, not only traffic but I rode that horse twice a day two noticed the problem at home. After Preparation other things as well. Some arenas weeks before a big show or ponied a couple of horse shows, I observed How do you prepare your horse are notorious for having pigeons the horse more times than usual that when I would take him back to the for a show? Do you get ready for a flying around the arena. Patches week. After the show I’ll think about stall after the class, the first thing he big show the same way? Obviously of sunlight shining on the arena, what could have been better and would do is urinate. The next horse there are a few differences in taking noisy ventilation fans, bad footing, what would help improve that for the show we went to, I changed the way a young horse to its first horse show air conditioners, or a difficult trail next time. we got him ready the day of the show. versus an older seasoned veteran but obstacle can all be encountered at When you get to the show, don’t I would ride him before the class, there are a few similarities too. certain pens. Try to simulate all those change the way you prepare your bring him back to the stall, let him While the best teacher is usually as best as you can at home; you’ll be horse just because you see someone urinate, then go show him, and the experience, steps can be taken to better prepared for them when you else doing something different. In behavior was eliminated. He would ensure the transition is a smooth one see them at the show. the horse show world, many times it’s get a little nervous at a show and from the training barn to the horse Schedules at shows are usually monkey see, monkey do. If someone when he had to urinate, he didn’t like show. Think about the upcoming imposed rather than chosen. At does something different and has any nudge to his belly. By changing event you would like to take your home you might choose to ride at 5 some success with it, everyone his routine the day of the show, I horse too. What will be different or 6 in the evening, but at the show seems to jump on the bandwagon. made him more comfortable and fixed than your regular schedule? A big your class is the first one to show at Have confidence in yourself and the problem we were having. difference for a young horse, and 7 that morning. Vary the time of day horse. There’s a time and place for So far we have rhythm, sometimes old pros, is distractions you ride. This change will help you trying out different methods but at the consistency, and preparation and which come in many forms. Other determine how much warm up your horse show before your class usually you think you’re ready to enter the horses, spectators, little kids, horse might need on a cool morning isn’t a good place to start. Put that pen, but wait. What about your dogs, traffic, the announcer, the instead of a warm afternoon. An idea in your thinking cap and try it out appearance? We’re getting closer photographer, umbrellas, and additional step I take at home is to next week when you get home. If it to showing now let’s address your numerous other things can take your get the horse comfortable with being doesn’t work, you’ll have time to fix it appearance! horse’s mind off of you and onto tied. Being tied is a time for the horse before the next show. something else. to relax. At the show, two classes For horses that haven’t been Appearance Some people try to insulate their before your class may be split or they hauled to horse shows much, I’ll Somewhere in our American horse from the rest of the world when may decide to take a break. Either take along and start introducing it to culture, we have the idea we need they train or show. They want the way, it is impractical to untack your horse show life. Generally, I won’t to stand out; be different from the arena totally quiet when they are horse and saddle up again. Your show a horse the first time I take it to crowd. This same notion holds true riding and everyone to stay at the horse shouldn’t stress out because the horse show. When I show that for horse show apparel. The problem other end of the pen. I believe they he’s saddled and tied; he should horse I want it to be as prepared as with that idea is how some people are doing their horse a disservice. wait patiently until it’s his turn. If you possible and not ‘beat itself’ because interpret it. Think about what image Sure, short term benefits mean their are at a show, showing out of your it wasn’t as ready as it could be. I’ll you are trying to portray to the judge. horse isn’t distracted, but long term trailer, the day seems even longer for note what that horse is like the first Sure, a peacock feather flowing from their horse is going to suffer when an a horse tied to your trailer that paws day of the show. Some horses are your cowboy hat will get you noticed unexpected event happens or they constantly! great right off the trailer and others but that might have a negative effect can’t control the environment. Strive The more I haul a horse to shows, need a little play time on the lunge on your appearance. Sometimes to expose your horse to all possible the better I know how to prepare it line or an extra day of rest before Continues onto pages 8 & 9 scenarios. Think about the people for the next show; not only the day they are ready to go to work. 8 BETTER HORSES in an effort to stand out from other at your horse and the other horses change it to another subject as quick Don’t waste even more time because contestants, exhibitors will go too in your class. Do the other horses as we can. One of the most important your horse spooks at a trail obstacle far and actually detract from their have tail extensions? Are their manes factors often overlooked is attitude. and you spend five minutes trying to performance. banded or braided? How well are Horse shows are competitive, but get your horse over to it. If every trail I tell people many times horse show they clipped and groomed compared no one likes a poor sport. I often exhibitor did this, just imagine how fashion (and training a horse for that to your horse? All these things play a wonder if people think the judge long the show would be. Work on the matter) is like learning to play the part in your overall image. can’t tell a poor sport also. Attitude obstacle after the horse show or next piano. You must first learn the rules Think about how you look to a also plays a role in your appearance week during practice. to be good; to be great you then must judge, not only your clothes, but and image. I would wager judges Some exhibitors feel that they know when to break them. If you are your overall image. I remember could recall poor sports in horse paid for a class and they should new to the horse show world don’t try when those plastic flip numbers first shows more readily than the horses get to show in it. The key word to push the envelope at first. came out years ago. As a trainer, they picked to win. Most spectators here is “show.” A judge has a Your show clothes don’t have to be they were pretty handy. As long as struggle to remember the class responsibility to other exhibitors, the most expensive ones in the pen, someone knew their number, I could placings from yesterday, but easily spectators, and management to but they need to work for you, rather just flip them around and was ready recount the temper tantrum that keep the show moving along. If an than against you. I often think about to go. I didn’t have to hunt down someone threw. exhibitor interrupts the flow of the an interview with Marcus Allen, who safety pins or magic markers. I was I tell my customers we should only show, a judge has a right to dismiss was a running back for the Raiders talking to a Missouri judge who we worry about the things we can control the exhibitor. Again, an exhibitor who and later the Chiefs. He was talking had shown to lately and he made a and judges aren’t one of the things complains that they were unfairly about his first rushing touchdown. A comment about the flip numbers. He we should worry about. If they have excused leaves an unfavorable reporter asked him, “Why didn’t you said they had a glare on them and a good ride and get overlooked, I impression on the judge. do a celebration dance in the end were hard to read, along with a few still consider that a success. To me, Now, let’s consider attitude when zone?” Marcus told the reporter, profanities. Needless to say that was horse shows should be about fun and showing. A judge can tell with ease “Because I wanted to look like I had the last show I used those plastic flip improvement, a place to socialize with what kind of day the competitor is been there before.” A judge might numbers! Try to think about things friends and appreciate good horses. having just by the look on his or her not know you are a rookie unless you from a judge’s perspective, not just an I don’t care what horse you have, it face. A positive, pleasant expression show or tell him. Just because you exhibitor’s perspective. is impossible to win every event you goes a long way towards the overall are a rookie, doesn’t mean you can’t If you are unsure about something, enter. The best way not to get beat is impression a judge gets. I think most dress and act like a veteran. don’t be afraid to seek advice from not to enter a class. judges don’t like a fake smile, but Start with the basics. Don’t try to someone who you respect. Be View the horse show from the most would rather have a fake smile begin with many outfits. Start with careful though; sometimes advice is judge’s perspective. More than likely than a scowl! Are you confident one good one and then expand. Buy worth what it costs! he or she has taken the day before in your horse? Your pattern? the best you can afford of the basics. All right, you and your horse are to travel, gets in late that night, gets Sometimes the difference between A well-shaped hat will add to any looking spiffy and just got done up early the next morning and stands a good pattern and a great pattern is outfit. One of my pet peeves as a showing but didn’t do as well as on their feet the next 8 to 12 hours, the confidence shown by the exhibitor. judge is a hat that looks like it has expected. Now is a good time to keep just to get a late dinner that night and They know where the cones are and been behind the truck seat since the a positive attitude. another full day of travel the next day. what is expected next. The pattern last horse show. Take care of your When you consider the amount of flows smoothly and effortlessly. investment. Attitude travel time, the time spent in motels, After you are aware about your Don’t underestimate clean, well We’ve all seen them at the horse and paying the barn help while attitude and the effect it has on your fitted attire. A simple starched shirt shows. We will avoid them after their gone, the hourly wage goes down appearance, almost anyone who is and jeans can go a long way. Pay horse doesn’t win a class. You know significantly. The judge does not want having a good ride or a good pattern attention to details. Have someone who I’m talking about. They will give to waste even more time when an can confidently “sell” that pattern or video your class and the others in the judge the evil eye or kick the dirt exhibitor is not ready for their class. ride to the judge. A great exhibitor the class. What do you notice? How in disgust. Those people that come In addition to being prompt, be can remain calm, cool, and collected does your tack fit? How do your up and say, “I just don’t know what courteous. Horses and exhibitors even when things aren’t going clothes fit? Don’t be afraid to be that judge was looking at,” or “I can’t have bad days. Most judges right. Sometimes, it is possible to critical. Look at other contestants in believe the judge used that horse!” understand that a horse sometimes mislead the judge into believing that the class. How is their appearance? If they happen to corner us, we will needs correction. However, this is a everything is going as planned when What do you notice different? Look politely skirt around the topic and horse show, not a clinic or practice. it really isn’t. These actors will place 2021 Summer Issue 9 higher and win more because they appearance. I often hear old timers show. If you know you are only going horse show you normally go to. Pick view the arena as their stage. They at the horse show talk about the good to get to ride your horse twice this the shows that would be the most keep their composure and roll with old days. One of the stories I recall, week before the next show, work on beneficial to you and your horse to the punches. Possibly the judge Doc Allen told about a horse show the problem areas. Don’t spend time prepare for that show and eliminate didn’t see your break of gait in the where an old beat up truck and a practicing things you already excel at. the shows that would be marginally corner, your overturn, or spin the rickety trailer came puttering into the If you could change one thing per ride useful. Keep in mind time and wrong way. A number of exhibitors horse show. All the people standing on your horse, think about what that monetary constraints as bigger shows tell on themselves when things go around were laughing at the rig. Doc horse would be like in ten rides, fifty cost more money and usually require wrong. If the judge was not exactly said they proceeded to unload the rides, a hundred rides. True, every more travel time. sure what happened, a competitor’s best looking horse at the horse show. horse has a different capacity for We have finally made it through attitude and appearance will That horse won everything that day learning, but you get the point. If your all our topics: rhythm, consistency, telegraph what actually happened. from the halter to the reining. (Back horse struggles at walk overs in trail preparation, image, attitude, and Keep your chin up and go right on like when they showed them all day and competing in trail is your goal, priorities. Hopefully, you might have nothing happened. long!) When the guy was loading spend those limited riding minutes gleaned a new idea or two that will Be positive and prompt. Be up, someone asked him why he was practicing walk overs this week. Next help maximize you and your horse’s courteous and confident. Be gracious hauling that fine animal around in that week if your horse masters the walk performance. Just remember when when you win and a good sport when rig. The guy replied, “I couldn’t afford overs then proceed onto the next in doubt, keep it simple and review you don’t. It sounds simple enough, a good horse and a good rig, and big problem area. Before you know your basics. You can accomplish but it’s hard to do. Master those they don’t judge trailers at the horse it, your problem areas will become your goals, one step at a time! and you are on your way towards a show.” This story brings home the fewer and fewer. great attitude, which is an important, point that we need to focus on what Finally, prioritize your horse shows. but overlooked part of appearance. the judge will be judging us on, not If your goal is competing in the World Finally, let’s talk about priorities. what others at the show will judge us Show or at the Congress, you might on. not have enough vacation days or Priorities Pick a goal and be specific, but the financial means to go to every Wouldn’t it be great if we all had reasonable, about it. Now take a enough time, energy, and resources realistic look at your appearance and to do everything we wanted to do? your horse. Given that your horse is Unfortunately, we don’t. Work, capable of accomplishing this goal school, soccer practice, taxes, and a with you, study others that have multitude of other things all keep us accomplished the goal you wish to. from doing what we want to get done. What are the similarities? What are How can we make sense of all these the differences? Maybe you can’t things and still accomplish our horse go out and buy a whole new outfit goals? Prioritize. or all new tack, but prioritize and go Prioritize your goals. It is get the most important ones. Start impossible to win every class at simple. Maybe you are in desperate a horse show if you struggle with need of a new hat or a new saddle. winning one. Focus on one event. Be clever. If you can’t afford a brand Maybe your favorite event is trail or new saddle, look into gently used showmanship. Work towards getting ones. You’ll get all the feel of a nice better in that class. After you’ve saddle for a fraction of the price. accomplished your goal of being Use this what-do-I-need-the-worst competitive in trail, then move onto approach every time you upgrade another goal. your equipment and you’ll start I usually employ the strategy of realizing the rewards. changing the most noticeable things Prioritize your riding time also. We first, whether that is the horse or rider. cannot simply ride the horse two Let’s apply this priority theory to your times and have it perfect for the next 10 BETTER HORSES

John Keeling

Originally from Salina, Kansas, John earned his BFA-Design from KU in 1983. Since college, he has lived and worked in Kansas City, Missouri. After retiring as a Creative Director from Hallmark Cards in 2013, John has been reinventing himself as a full-time watercolor artist. His award- winning work has been recognized throughout the country, including membership in the Watercolor USA Honor Society. John operates a custom pet portrait business from his home studio in Crestwood. He is represented by MHS Licensing and his watercolors can be found on a range of products, including calendars, fabric, and home decor. He has illustrated two children’s books about Sam, a shelter dog, written by KC autor Annie Presley. John enjoys teaching watercolor to all ages and skill levels. he holds workships in his home studio and gardens. In May of 2022, he will be leading two Beginners Workshops in Provence, France. For more information about John, his work, and workshop opportunities, please visit his website at www.johnkeelingpaintings.com. 2021 Summer Issue 11 12 BETTER HORSES

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Hearty Grub with Mark Burkdoll

Cowboy Taters 1 pound red potatoes, (about half the skins removed) sliced thin 2 Tbsp melted butter 1/4 cup whipping cream 1 cup shredded onions (yellow) 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese salt and pepper

Mix all ingredients together and put in cast iron skillet and press down tightly. Cook on stove top over high heat until the cheese starts to melt, then move to oven to finish (15 to 20 min depends on the thickness of the potatoes). Put under broiler for the last couple of minutes to brown the tops. 2021 Summer Issue 13 ‘Age Is Meaningless’ When Deciding Whether To Retire An ‘Old’ Horse By Frank J. Buchman “Older horses are often healthier A veterinarian can be helpful in such are hurting. “They’ll tell you I’m fine. and happier when they are continued a situation. “I may see an older horse I can run on these tendons, when to be used.” only two or three times a year. So I’m really they can’t,” Sobeck said. “When Like people, every horse is different, going to notice that it’s stiffer or losing x-rays tell one story, but the horse is and conditions sometimes demand muscle mass,” Sobeck said “That’s giving another, owners must overrule retirement. Certain horse owners sometimes an eye opener for the the horse for its own good.” contend a 20-year-old is “past their owner who hasn’t seen or won’t admit Non-musculoskeletal conditions, prime, time to retire.” However, many their horse is slowing down.” such as heaves and Cushing disease, of the best horses continue working However, in other situations it aren’t likely to drive a horse into Putting an old horse “out to much longer. becomes apparent that a horse can retirement. pasture” is often unnecessary “Putting an old horse ‘out to pasture’ no longer handle a workload “It will “Medications can usually control and even unwise, veterinarians is unnecessary and even unwise,” two tire faster and take longer to recover,” these problems,” Trachtenberg contend. The horse still requires considerable care and attention. renowned horse veterinarians agreed. Trachtenberg said. “A horse may trip said. “Still untreated conditions can “Instead, consider the horse’s more or be sore after a long ride, both certainly lead to complications that needs to develop retirement keeping signs of slowing down.” make it difficult for a horse to perform the horse active and content,” Too much work can also make a job.” recommended David Trachtenberg, an older horse behave differently. There are no rules of thumb for DVM. “When a horse is aggravated with a determining how much a horse of “The end of a horse’s career is bad attitude, it may be telling you to a certain age and with particular determined less by age than physical cutback the workload,” Sobeck added. conditions can do. “That is done on capacity and other intangible factors,” Still any horse will have good and a case-by-case and even day-by-day added Ruth Sobeck, DVM. bad days. “Owners shouldn’t read too basis,” Sobeck informed. “Age is meaningless,” Trachtenberg much into a single episode,” Sobeck Using an older horse sparingly won’t insisted. “If a horse is in good shape continued. “Instead, look for patterns. preserve soundness. “The adage and handling workload with ease, Keep a daily diary to record just how that horses only have so many miles there’s no reason to retire. It is your horse feels and evaluate it at the in them applies more to the extreme detrimental, physically and mentally, end of the month.” sports like barrel racing and roping,” The years that took a physical for a horse to suddenly go from being Veterinarians can help distinguish Trachtenberg said. “Reduced riding toll on an old horse may have active to not doing anything.” age-related issues from problems that can’t take five years off a moderately made it perfect for younger or inexperienced riders. The best way to retire a horse, the can be solved or at least made less arthritic horse’s life, so continue to veterinarians said, is to gradually severe. “Ninety percent of the time, ride the horse for enjoyment. But, decrease activity, based on changing arthritis is the issue in an older horse instead of going hard and fast, ride physical abilities. who is slowing down,” Trachtenberg easier trails.” mistake I see people make is just “It’s not always easy to decide when said. “Yet chronic, low-grade laminitis, Eventually, if the horse has the throwing a retired horse out in a field to make those adjustments and to typically referred to as ‘founder,’ can personality, it may just be led around and assuming it’ll be fine.” what extent, “Sobeck said. “Of course, be quite similar.” with kids on its back. “That’s an The horse still needs proper you never want to ask a horse to Repeated soft-tissue stress can put important job, too,” Sobeck said. “The nutrition, regular dental and hoof do work that the aging body can no a horse on a retirement track as well. years that took a physical toll on the care, vaccinations and deworming. longer handle.” “Many times an older horse injures the horse may have made it perfect for “The horse can’t be expected to An acute injury usually leaves same ligament or tendon again and younger or inexperienced riders.” fend for itself,” Trachtenberg said. “A little room for doubt when it comes again,” Sobeck said. “The horse can Even when an older horse works senior horse ration is advisable, but to planning a horse’s future. “On the be rehabilitated, but when it reaches less, or not at all, the task of caring for the horse probably doesn’t require other hand, when an older horse’s a certain level of work, lameness will it won’t necessarily become easier. supplemental vitamins and minerals decline is subtle, it can be difficult to reoccur.” “The needs will be different, but still Continued on page 14 see,” Sobeck insisted. Some horses will not reveal they important,” Sobeck said. “The biggest 14 BETTER HORSES Age is Meaningless horse can no longer be ridden, when fed good forages.” it’s good to include it in previous Simply looking at an older horse activities,” Trachtenberg said. “Taking daily will go a long way toward an old horse to a show as a traveling keeping it healthy. “Continue to companion for a younger horse will handle the horse and be aware of make them both happier.” weight and overall health,” Sobeck advised. Consistency is important, too. “If the horse received an oral joint supplement while he was working, continue to give it in retirement,” Trachtenberg said. The horse’s mental health must not be overlooked either. “Companionship is still important to older horses,” Sobeck said. “They need the Mom’s Pineapple Ice Box Cake company of another horse if at all Melt 1 pound marshmallows in 1 cup milk in double boiler. Cool. possible.” Whip 1 cup heavy whipping cream. Add 1 small can crushed pineapple. Old horses might also miss their Add to cooled marshmallow mixture. former routine. “Even if an older Line pan with crushed vanilla wafers. Add cream mixture over wafers. Cool in refrigerator. 2021 Summer Issue 15 cans to stop flies from enjoying an Fly Control Tips for Happy, Healthy Horses all-you-can-eat buffet, plus prevent Say “Bye” to flies for horse health and comfort; implement these fly control strategies wafting, unpleasant aromas with By Aimee Robinson regular cleanings. [email protected] / 414-916-3246 • Empty and scrub feed tubs and It’s a nice, sunny day that is perfect months off from riding and training as bugs that conquer the fly’s cocoon water buckets regularly to help keep for a ride with your horse. You sink the infected horse heals. and kill immature pest flies naturally. flies at bay, as well as ensure horses into the saddle in pure relaxation. Anne-Marie Morgan is a horse have access to fresh, clean water Then suddenly, a horse fly lands on owner and trainer. She’s no stranger CLEAN STALLS AND TURNOUT at all times (a horse consumes an your horse’s rear end. He swishes his to the negative impact flies can have AREAS DAILY average of 10 gallons of fresh water tail and the tranquility of just moments on a horse, especially relating to • Regular cleanings help rid fly- per day.) ago is halted as your horse bucks summer sores. “Thankfully, we have a attracting odors and the warm, moist mid-air to rid the biting pest. Can very clean barn with a great fly spray environment that is a fly haven for USE PREMISE AND FLY you relate? Most of us with horses – system that keeps flies, and the risks laying eggs and source of food. SPRAYS admittedly – can. they present, to a minimum,” Morgan • Help manage moist, wet areas of • Using a premise spray quickly “Summer days provide the perfect said. pastures through drainage where controls adult flies and other barn- environment for a rapid increase in fly Florida-based horse owner, practical. residing insects, as well as helps populations. When flies are abundant, Miriam Wohlers, also shared how, • Remove manure piles off-site from deter new ones from entering the horses become irritated and stressed. “In the summertime, it is a constant pastures, or spread manure over area. More than that, flies cause far greater battle with summer sores. Flies are fields and paddocks, to help dry out • Barn insecticide spray kits can damage than being a nuisance horrendous, due to the constant piles and attract fewer flies. offer reliable fly control measures, alone,” warns Arnold Nagely, DVM, humidity. All you can do is work to • Spread out or remove uneaten hay through automatically timed spray co-founder of Valley Vet Supply. contain the flies.” to dry quickly. applications. “Flies also contribute to significant Flies can be relentless, especially • Keep overburden of plant residue • Fly spray is a must for quick and equine diseases and conditions. during the summer months. at a minimum by controlling and easy on-horse protection against By controlling the fly population Dr. Nagely said, “Horsemen likely cutting back excessive weeds and flies. For the best results, make sure through a multi-pronged approach, have seen a rise in flies since April, plant growth. your horse is clean, so the spray horse owners can reduce risks for a and they can expect to see increased sticks to the hair, not to dirt or mud. number of health challenges, such as fly populations through September, HANG FLY TRAPS • Ensure the horse’s face is shielded strangles, influenza, eye worms and even into October in some regions • From sticky traps to fly-attractant from flies, too, by using a fly control summer sores.” of the country. It’s best to begin fly bags that can catch up to 40,000 product that is safe to use nearby With risks heightening as control strategies as early in the flies, there are many options their eyes. There are specially temperatures climb and fly season as possible to curb the available. formulated ointments that can environments thrive, summer sores numbers, reduce horse health risks • Be sure to read the product label be applied using a cloth for this can have a painstaking impact on and keep horses comfortable overall.” and directions, as it’s not uncommon sensitive area. equine health and comfort. While Reduce the fly population at to see these fly-attractant products ENSURE PROTECTION curing them can be a relentless battle, your horse barn with these simple hanging in areas in which horse THROUGH FLY GEAR preventing them begins simply—by strategies. owners would ideally want fewer • Fly apparel — such as fly sheets, controlling the fly population. flies. Be sure to pull flies away from masks and fly boots — also offers Summer sores are caused by STOP FLIES BEFORE THEY the barn, not encourage more flies to more protection than from a fly’s house flies, face flies and stable flies, HATCH come in. painful bite alone. Fly gear can as they transfer parasitic nematode • Insect growth regulators pass provide UV protection for horses, with larvae (Habronema species) to through the manure of treated MAINTAIN A TIDY BARN some sheets and masks blocking moist areas around a horse’s open horses, preventing flies from • Remove dropped grain and more than 80% of harmful UV rays. wounds, eyes, nostrils, mouth and developing into adults by inhibiting supplements from stalls and feed genitalia. When the larvae create a the development of the exoskeleton rooms; doing so also will help INSTALL BARN/STALL FANS TO hypersensitivity reaction, chronic, in fly larvae. prevent visits from opportunistic INCREASE AIR CIRCULATION fleshy and non-healing wounds can • Barn managers also have success rodents, and the snakes that might • Circulating air helps to deter flies result, known as summer sores. The in eliminating the fly population using be right behind them. because the air requires more work condition is costly and can require fly predators, which are beneficial • Place tight-fitting lids on all garbage 16 BETTER HORSES and energy from flies to travel to and medications hand-selected by Valley may be addressed to the Executive dispute, misleading, or unverified. land on your horse. Vet Supply founding veterinarians Director. Therefore, content of releases To help shield her mare from flies and their professional staff. With an advocating a particular position or and Florida heat, Wohlers has three in-house pharmacy that is licensed Submissions to the AHP policy will be reviewed and may be fans mounted and running in her in all 50 states, and verified through Newsgroup must include returned to the sender for editing or mare’s stall at all times during warmer the National Association of Boards of information that would be of edited by AHP staff to conform with months. Coupled with using fly Pharmacy (NABP), Valley Vet Supply interest to the general membership. AHP policies. Links to websites that spray, she also regularly washes and is the dedicated source for all things Solicitations are not allowed violate AHP policies are not allowed switches out five fly masks, and uses horse, livestock and pet. For more including crowdfunding other than and may be deleted. Such links fly traps. “I want my mare to be happy information, please visit ValleyVet. for charitable organizations granted should be reported to the Executive and healthy,” Wohlers said. “Flies are com. 501(c)(3) status by the Internal Director. not only annoying, but they also carry AHP has not verified the factual Revenue Service. Messages should Members may unsubscribe to a lot of diseases, and I don’t want her statements in any message and AHP not include statements that may harm the AHP Newsgroup at any time by to contract anything from them. Flies assumes no responsibility for the the reputation or relationship of a sending an e-mail message to Chris can be so frustrating for her, and I contents of, or any damage resulting fellow AHP member. The Newsgroup at [email protected] requesting want to do everything I possibly can from, any communication in the should be an outlet for actual news, to remove your e-mail address from to prevent them.” Newsgroup. Publication in the AHP and not a forum for opinion or debate. the list. By doing this you will remove Newsgroup is not an endorsement Although it is a strict violation of your name from receiving all future About Valley Vet Supply by the organization of any product, AHP policy to harm the reputation messages sent to the AHP-LIST until Valley Vet Supply was founded person, or policy. Complaints or or relationship of another member you contact us to re-subscribe. in 1985 by veterinarians to provide concerns about the content of AHP of the organization, members customers with the very best animal Newsgroup postings should be posting press releases advocating a health solutions. Building on over half directed to the originating individual particular position or policy are under a century of experience in veterinary or organization and not to AHP, no obligation to provide balanced medicine, Valley Vet Supply serves which cannot resolve disputes arising information about both sides of a equine, pet and livestock owners between members. Complaints of controversial issue. The content with thousands of products and copyright or trademark infringement of such a press release may be in BRIAN’S FIRST SADDLE!

I wanted to share with you a first saddle made by a dear friend of mine. Brian Fletcher from Sayre, Oklahoma, recently completed his first saddle in his leather shop. It is a 16” inch Ranch Roper. Great leather work complete with oak leaves and basket weave.He also made a matching breast collar and back cinch.

Brian is offering this saddle, as well as the breast collar, for sale at a cost of $3000. This saddle is heavy and well made with the finest leather in the iindustry.

If interested email me at [email protected] 2021 Summer Issue 17 18 BETTER HORSES Longest Employee At Bluestem Farm & Ranch To Retire After 44 Years’ Service By Frank J. Buchman Service of one of the most State University majoring in business recognized and the longest tenured administration and psychology. “I employee at the Emporia farm store is started to work for Bluestem part time climaxing. during college and then went to work Concluding more than 44 years fulltime when I graduated in 1978,” working at Bluestem Farm & Ranch Bruce remembered. Supply, Bruce Burenheide will retire Already at its present location on on June 25th. West Highway 50 when Bruce started, “It’s been a great place to work Bluestem Farm & Ranch Supply for a family business always caring opened in 1961. for their employees and customers,” “Lee Nelson, farmer, implement Burenheide said. “It was a difficult dealer and former county agent, decision, but I decided now was the had a location on Commercial time. I’ll miss the others I work with Street downtown,” Bruce said. “Lee and serving the customers who are expanded Bluestem to new facilities Bruce Burenheide has worked at Bluestem Farm & Ranch Supply in my friends from such a wide area.” here in 1968. He was always a hands- Emporia 44 years. As the longest tenured employee there, Burenheide Growing up at Olpe, Burenheide on boss who knew his employees and will retire on June 25th. helped on his family’s small farming his customers and took care of them operation and worked for other area all.” time or another moving up to the main then their sons have been employees farmers. “I also worked at the Olpe Serving customers “on the floor” office,” he said. too.” locker plant and Crown S Farms so I early in his career, Bruce worked in As the buyer manager for 25 years, Long tenure working at Bluestem had diverse experiences,” he said. sporting goods, later tools and then Bruce assists in all phases of the is common because it’s such a family Graduating from high school in paints departments. “I’ve done about business with many diverse duties. operation. “We’re now in the third 1974, Burenheide attended Emporia everything there is at Bluestem one “I’m buyer for the three departments generation of Lee Nelson’s family of the store that I worked in and help owning and operating the store,” wherever else I can,” he said. Bruce said. “They’re all different Handling much of the advertising but have followed Lee’s philosophy and promotions for Bluestem, Bruce of concern for employees and gets called upon to interview and customers.” hire new employees. “I’ve had the Next in line of seniority at Bluestem opportunity to work with a lot of good now is Lonnie Standiferd, the store people throughout the years,” he said. manager who’s worked there 37 “A number of our employees have years. “We have about 85 employees farm backgrounds which is an asset to now, down from nearly a hundred as work here.” we’ve tried to become more efficient,” Part time help is important to make Bruce said. sure there’s a fulltime staff to serve There’ve been three major facility customers. “Because I started working expansions at Bluestem in Bruce’s Bluestem Farm & Ranch Supply opened in 1961 on Commercial Street here during college, I have a soft career. “Customers wanted more and in Emporia and has been at the present location on West Highway 50 spot for students who need a job,” he different merchandize, so we added since 1968. admitted. “Several employees worked on in order to accommodate them,” here during and after college, and he said. 2021 Summer Issue 19

Common opinion in a wide area Bruce said. “We’ve kept busy going developed through the decades. Bruce repeated: “I will miss the of farm country, “if you need it, to their activities and now with11 “I have a new shop to work on my people. That’s been the best part of Bluestem’s got it,” and that is normally grandchildren keep on going.” collector pickups that we take to the job helping a customer find what true. “We have more than 155,000 Changes have been constant shows around the area,” he said. they wanted, fixing their problems. items for sale and keep adding more,” in Bruce’s 44 years at Bluestem. “We like to fish and have a new pond I will really miss that and those who Bruce said. “If somebody needs a “Oh, we have more, different and stocked and will visit our regular I’ve worked with so many years.” special item or part, we generally advanced merchandize,” Bruce fishing holes more often. We have have it, or will be able to get what said. “But technology is the biggest been to Alaska fishing several times they want. transition I’ve seen and it keeps and want to do more of that.” “Although Lee started this as a getting updated all of the time,” Working at his wife’s tax business farm store, our customers now come Recent days, Bruce has been during his Bluestem vacations for a from all walks of life, There are a few turning his four-decades-long number of years, Bruce will be called things we don’t handle, but not really Bluestem knowledge and experience into that office more now. “Sheila very many,’’ Bruce said. over to fellow employees. “There’s a has worked for H&R Block about 25 While working at Bluestem, Bruce lot to tell everybody about and there’ll years, and owned the local franchise has maintained small farm operations surely be many more things come up. about 20 years,” Bruce said. “I will and helped sometimes at his wife’s I told them I was always ready to help probably work there fulltime during H&R Block tax service. “Sheila if they give me a call,” Bruce said. the spring tax season.” (Combes) and I’ve been married Anticipating retirement, Bruce will After what is now an unusually long 46 years, and raised two children,” have more time for the pastimes career serving one place of business, 20 BETTER HORSES

horse because there aren’t as many Next time you are riding in your Show Pen Maintenance in the classes. Those small shows class at a horse show and your By Merle Arbo aren’t as pressed for time either. Be horse pulls a fast one on you, don’t Imagine an Reiners are probably the most considerate to others showing in be afraid to send it to the principal’s elementary noted at show pen maintenance. At a the class. As a trainer, I understand office immediately. After a few trips, school where weekend horse show, you might see the need to school your horse. As your horse might start realizing it had there isn’t several amateurs go back into the an exhibitor, I don’t feel like your better heed your warnings! any discipline open, not only to help with numbers, schooling should interfere with my plan for the but to help keep their horse honest in ride. Just because you may have students. the pen. Going back into a different come to school, others might come That means division such as amateur or open can to show. The quickest way for an no trips to not only be applied to reining, but to exhibitor to get pulled in the middle the principal, no detentions, no in or western pleasure, trail, western riding, during a rail class is to interfere with out of school suspensions. The only horsemanship, showmanship, etc. the other horses! way for a teacher to reprimand the For example, a novice youth could go students is a stern talking to at best. back and show in the youth and then Think about walking into a classroom. the open division. Not only does this There would be chaos! I’m sure a help the exhibitor gain experience, few students would be sitting down but gives an opportunity to school the and tending to their studies, but I can horse in the show pen, should the also see a few kids swinging from the need arise. rafters. This idea may seem wild, but One of the most common rebuttals to some horses, a horse show isn’t is “the judge was looking at me.” much different for them. While that may be true, most judges Like the above analogy, many are horsemen and understand people will train their horses at home, horses aren’t machines. Sometimes but when they take their horse to the only time a horse will exhibit an the show pen, they simply drop their undesirable behavior is in a show pen hand and are at the mercy of the environment. While I won’t place an horse. Like some kids, some horses exhibitor very well when schooling, will continue to do their job because I will permit that individual to school Walton Wisdom Tip they want to. Other horses might be that horse in the class. The big Using cross ties is a common practice in a boarding facility. like the kids swinging off the rafters! debate that has risen lately is where A common mistake is to let the horse walk forward and lean on the Regardless of what type of equine the line of schooling versus abuse cross tie while you are tacking them up. student you have, chances are it is crossed. That line is an individual If you allow this to happen, the horse will disrespect the halter and could benefit from a little show pen judges’ call, but most exhibitors and lean on it while you are leading them. They will have learned they can maintenance. judges alike know when that line has lead you instead of you leading them. Ever go to a horse show and pick been crossed. I’ve shown to some a winner out, only to see them stop judges who weren’t very tolerant of and back right in front of the judge or any schooling and some that may put two hands and pull on the reins? have been too tolerant. Remember To the untrained eye, it appears that the judges who are intolerant and they just self- destructed, but in reality don’t school under those judges! the rider might be keeping their horse Obviously the bigger the show, honest or preparing for a bigger the less tolerant judges will be of upcoming show. If they allowed the schooling, so use some discretion horse to continue an unsatisfactory when schooling your horse in a behavior, then they are teaching that class. Usually small shows work horse that it is acceptable. the best if you are going school your 2021 Summer Issue 21 22 BETTER HORSES Genetic Diseases of Quarter Horses and Related Breeds Laurie Beard, DVM, MS, DACVIM and Elizabeth Davis, DVM, PhD, DACVIM Over the past three decades there is rapidly expanding in human commercial testing laboratories have been remarkable advances and veterinary medicine. Although include, Animal Genetics https:// with the identification and diagnosis there are genetic tests that are www.animalgenetics.us/ and Vet of heritable conditions in horses. commercially offered that have Gen https://www.vetgen.com/ The common goal of this process no scientific validation, there are which are also well recognized is to help improve breeds so that tests available through diagnostic laboratories that offer scientifically horses are selected not only for laboratories that are valid, which validated genetic tests. desirable traits, but to also identify means the test results are accurate conditions that may negatively impact and repeatable. The goal with any Polysaccharide Storage the health and well-being of horses test is to have a test performed that Myopathy (PSSM) (Figure 1, healthy QH). From this provides a result that is trustworthy Polysaccharide storage myopathy perspective, hyperkalemic periodic and meaningful, this is the value of (PSSM) is a common disease of Healthy American Quarter Horse paralysis (HYPP or sometimes known having a validated test performed. Quarter Horses and many different as Impressive disease) was one of Validated testing allows the breeds (paint horses, appaloosas, earliest genetic diseases diagnosed individual that has selected the test draft and warmblood breeds) in Quarter Horses in the 1990s. to confidently interpret test results, that is a cause of recurrent tying Most horse owners and equine knowing that the test was run properly up in horses. Polysaccharide professionals have some knowledge and the results are meaningful. storage myopathy is characterized of HYPP including clinical signs, This article describes more by abnormal accumulation of management and how the disease is recently identified genetic diseases glycogen (a storage form of sugar) inherited. Beginning in 2007, horses in horses that have all been in muscle cells. Glycogen is identified as being a homozygote scientifically validated, which include important for muscle cell energy (having 2 alleles = genes for the Polysaccharide Storage Myopathy production, when not available in Skin lesion along the topline of a condition) for HYPP were no longer – (PSSM), Glycogen Branching the proper structure, muscle cells horse diagnosed with HERDA. eligible for American Quarter Horse Enzyme Deficiency (GBED), cannot function properly. Horses defined, but is characterized by Association (AQHA) registration. The Malignant Hyperthermia (MH), Myosin with PSSM often have a history of muscle cell changes and abnormal AQHA has more recently provided Heavy Chain Myopathy (MYHM), recurrent tying-up, which is also staining for muscle glycogen identified expanded genetic testing for horse and Hereditary Equine Regional called exertional rhabdomyolysis. on histopathology. owners and breeders, commonly Dermal Asthenia (HERDA). It is Clinical signs include muscle called the “5 panel test”. Recently noteworthy that five out of the six stiffness, sweating, and reluctance Diagnosis of PSSM1 and PSSM2 a sixth genetic disease in Quarter genetic diseases identified in Quarter to move often during exercise. Most The diagnosis of PSSM1 can be Horses has been described and is Horses are muscle diseases. For commonly, signs of tying up develop made by submitting whole blood called myosin heavy chain myopathy owners of Quarter Horses, tests in the first 15-20 minutes of exercise. or hair with roots to equine genetic (MYHM). Currently the only required for five of these conditions can be Dr. Stephanie Valberg, Mary Anne laboratories and having DNA testing genetic testing by the AQHA is for ordered as a panel through AQHA McPhail Dressage Chair in Equine performed for PSSM Type I. The GYSI HYPP. However, equine professionals https://www.aqha.com/home. Testing Sports Medicine and Professor at mutation that results in Type I PSSM have the ability to test for up to six is straightforward, following AQHA Michigan State University, College is inherited in a dominant fashion conditions that may negatively impact instructions, hair samples can be of Veterinary Medicine has identified (Table 1). This mode of inheritance horse health, in this way breeding sent directly to Veterinary Genetics two main types of PSSM, termed results in clinical signs whether an practices can be designed with Laboratory at University of California- PSSM Type I and PSSM Type II. individual gene (heterozygote) or two specific information that can truly help Davis. Testing for MYMH, while not Type 1 PSSM is caused by the genes (homozygote) are inherited. In to improve the genetics of horses that offered through AQHA, can also genetic mutation of the glycogen the heterozygous form, where only are produced, providing a foundation be requested through Veterinary synthase (GYSI) gene. Type 2 PSSM one gene is present, clinical signs are for responsible breeding decisions. Genetics Laboratory at the University represents an independent form of less severe than if the horse inherits Identification of genetic diseases of California Davis. Additional PSSM that has not been genetically Continued on page 23 & 24 2021 Summer Issue 23 two genes and is a homozygote. native orchard/prairie type grass. death will occur. This condition is a of MH is most commonly triggered Conversely, although clinical signs In addition to forage, concentrate result of mutation in the glycogen by inhalant anesthesia, and less are similar, the only way to establish supplementation should only be branching enzyme that results in the commonly by severe stress. During the diagnosis of PSSM2 is by muscle provided if absolutely necessary inability of muscle and cardiac tissue an episode of MH, horses will have biopsy and careful histopathologic because many concentrate feeds to store glycogen (storage form of an extremely high temperature, testing. There are no scientifically contain starch. If additional calories sugar). Affected (homozygote) foals excessive sweating, high heart rate validated genetic tests for PSSM2 at are needed, such as in a performance that are born alive will be weak, and abnormal heart rhythm. Death is this time. If you own a horse that has horse that has difficulty maintaining have markedly low blood glucose, possible during an episode. demonstrated signs of recurrent tying ideal body condition, fat can be may have contracted tendons, and up episodes and you have concerns added to the diet to increase caloric suddenly die. Muscle disease may Diagnosis of MH about the potential for PSSM (Type intake either with vegetable oil or be evident due to an inability to rise The diagnosis of MH is made I or Type II), you should consult an commercial fat supplementation. or identified on blood tests that show by genetic testing. Malignant equine veterinarian about the process There are commercial high-fat high levels of muscle origin enzymes. hyperthermia is an autosomal of genetic or biopsy testing and the diets that are designed for horses dominant disease; thus if one copy most appropriate diagnostic laboratory with muscle disorders, these are Diagnosis and Management of GBED of the MH allele is present, this is for testing purposes. indicated for a horse diagnosed The definitive diagnosis of sufficient to result in clinical signs of with PSSM that requires additional GBED is made by genetic testing. disease in the affected horse (Table Management of PSSM calories in a concentrate feed. An Heterozygote horses (carry one 1). Even though there is no cure for additional consideration, particularly gene for the trait) for GBED are either PSSM1 or PSSM2, both forms in horses that are challenging to not clinically affected and appear Management of MH: of the disease are optimally managed manage symptom free, is that completely normal, but are carriers It is very important to know if your by regular, preferably daily exercise, horses diagnosed with both heritable for the gene mutation. Breeding two horse is a carrier of MH, particularly and optimal nutritional practices. conditions that include PSSM and heterozygotes that are carriers for if your horse requires general Regular exercise is an essential malignant hyperthermia (MH; will GBED will result in a homozygote anesthesia for surgery. Specifically, it component of managing horses be explained later in this article) will (affected foal) 25% of the time. This is important to tell your veterinarian if with either form of PSSM. Provision result in more severe clinical signs is an unfortunate and devastating your horse is a carrier for MH so that of daily turn out with compatible of tying up. Therefore, in instances outcome when considering that when inhalant anesthesia is avoided. If a pasture companions can be extremely where horses do not improve with present as a homozygote condition, horse is positive for MH and general beneficial. If horses are managed appropriate management, testing it is 100% fatal. Collectively, it is anesthesia is required, an alternative with a predominant pasture setting, for both PSSM1 and MH may be important that breeders know if their anesthesia can be administered, a grazing muzzle may be necessary indicated. mare / stallion pairs are carriers so such as intravenous (medication) if the grass is particularly lush, to they can avoid breeding two GBED anesthesia. Unfortunately, horses avoid an overweight condition or over Glycogen Branching Enzyme heterozygotes (carriers), which will positive for MH that undergo general consumption of carbohydrate (starch) Deficiency (GBED) prevent the very unfortunate loss of anesthesia, similar to other species in pasture grasses. Specifically, Glycogen Branching Enzyme the intended pregnancy or foal. that develop this condition, run the the diet of PSSM (I or II) - affected Deficiency (GBED) is a disease risk of fatal outcome. horses must be focused on a low of Quarter Horses and related Malignant Hyperthermia (MH) carbohydrate intake. Since PSSM bloodlines that results in an inability Malignant hyperthermia (MH) Myosin Heavy Chain Myopathy is associated with increased muscle to properly store glycogen that is occurs in Quarter Horses, and related (MYHM) cell glycogen, reduced overall fatal in foals. Glycogen Branching bloodlines and is a condition of Myosin-heavy chain myopathy is carbohydrate intake helps reduce Enzyme Deficiency is inherited as a hypermetabolic activity that results a condition in Quarter Horses and glycogen accumulation within muscle recessive disorder (Table 1), which in episodes of muscle contracture, related breeds that can result in cells and should improve the overall means clinical signs are only present increased temperature and irregular two specific clinical conditions. One health of the horse, reducing the when the individual is a homozygote heart rhythm. This genetic disease form is immune-mediated myositis frequency of tying up episodes. For (two alleles = genes are inherited). is due to a malfunctioning calcium- (IMM), the other is non-exertional this reason, even forage should be Unfortunately, when present this release channel of the sarcoplasmic rhabdomyolysis. Both conditions monitored as a source for potential disease is always terminal, disease reticulum in skeletal muscle cells, result in muscle mass loss and are excessive starch intake, optimal may result in abortion or if the fetus resulting in constant muscle associated with the same genetic pasture grass should comprise mainly reaches full gestational length, early contraction and cell death. An episode variant. Immune-mediated myositis 24 BETTER HORSES results in the immune system investigations are being conducted Hereditary Equine Regional at the time of breeding will help to attacking certain muscle fibers to learn more about the disease and Dermal Asthenia (HERDA) avoid the unfortunate situation of resulting in muscle inflammation frequency that carrier horses will Heritable Equine Regional Dermal breeding two HERDA heterozygote and rapid muscle atrophy. Common develop clinical signs of disease. Asthenia (HERDA), is a genetic carrier horses with one another. It is triggers for immune-mediated myositis disease that affects collagen important to avoid the development of often include infectious respiratory Management of MYHM formation in certain Quarter Horses. this condition through indiscriminant agents (such as Streptococcus spp. Horses that develop immune- The clinical presentation of HERDA breeding practices, because the organisms) or possibly vaccines. The mediated myositis are best treated involves the skin of affected horses. majority of affected horses will be non-exertional form of rhabdomyolysis with corticosteroid therapy for Specifically, HERDA is characterized euthanized due to the severity of the can result in a horse having muscle immunosuppressive purposes. by signs of fragile, hyper-extensible skin lesions. stiffness, firm muscles and potential Additionally, high risk triggers should skin commonly along the topline In summary, there are several recumbency (unable to rise). be avoided in horses that have that results in breaks in the skin heritable conditions that have been This form of the disease may be been diagnosed as carriers or are and subsequent scaring. The figure identified in horses, particularly in associated with muscle atrophy in homozygotes for MYH1. An example (figure 2) shows an example of Quarter Horse and related breeds. some cases. includes Streptococcus vaccines the skin lesions characteristic of a Organizations such as the AQHA and for strangles, these vaccines are HERDA positive horse. Young foals accredited diagnostic laboratories Diagnosis of MYHM generally not recommended for rarely show signs at birth or early have substantially enhanced the A DNA test is used to determine if Quarter Horses that have MYH1 in life. The disease most commonly ability for horse owners and equine a horse carries the gene for MYMH, because of the potential that it becomes apparent when horses are professionals to learn about the named MYH1. Myosin-heavy could trigger an episode of immune- being trained to ride at approximately genetic makeup of their horse, chain myopathy is inherited as an mediated myositis. If risk-based 2-3 years of age. Unfortunately particularly if breeding is being autosomal co-dominant condition with respiratory vaccines are indicated, many affected horses are eventually considered. Open communication with variable penetrance, which means intranasal vaccines are recommended euthanized due to the severity of skin veterinarians about what conditions a that a heterozygote is less severely rather than intramuscular vaccines, lesions, there is no cure and these horse has will allow for optimal care affected than a homozygote (Table which will lessen the overall horses cannot be used for riding or and prognosis at the time of needed 1). Horses that are homozygotes systemic exposure to this potential breeding purposes. treatment. If equine enthusiasts have for the disease are reported to have immune system trigger. Additional questions about testing or disease more frequent and severe symptoms. precautions include spreading out the Diagnosis and Management of manifestation of any of the described Interestingly, just because a horse administration of vaccines over time, HERDA disorders, it is most appropriate to carries the gene for MYH1 does not rather than administering all vaccines The diagnosis of HERDA is work with an equine veterinarian to mean with 100% certainty that a horse at one time, to reduce the risk of made with DNA testing. HERDA is gain current and accurate information will develop an episode of immune- myopathy. Ideally working directly an autosomal recessive disease, about conditions that could impact mediated myositis, this is a reflection with your veterinarian is the safest heterozygotes (carriers) for HERDA performance and overall health and of incomplete penetrance of this trait, approach to ensure establishment of a are not clinically affected, they well-being of horses. not all animals that have the mutation safe and effective vaccine protocol for appear normal (Table 1). However, are clinically affected, but most have a horse that has been diagnosed with breeding of two heterozygotes that some manifestation of disease. As MYH1 mutation and could develop carry the trait for HERDA will result the most recently identified heritable MYHM. in an affected foal 25% of the time. muscle disorder in horses, ongoing Having genetic information available

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CONTACT: Connie Rodina Ernie Rodina Ed Adams Dawn Dawson 785-418-2615 785-418-6047 816-830-1998 785-456-4495 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 2021 Summer Issue 25 26 BETTER HORSES Cowboy Church with Steve Stafford

Hey folks, good to be with you of Vacation Bible School. We had like to pray? One day a little girl again. It’s been awhile since we a bucket full of kids come with their raised her hand, and said, “Dear last talked and had a good cup of horses, we rode all week, learning God, thank you for the air to breath, coffee. Now I’m sure you’re just like something about rodeo skills and and the light to see.” I thought what me and busier than you’d like to horsemanship. But the emphasis a nice prayer that was. The next be, but the world is a fast moving was on Jesus. Sure we enjoyed meal I asked the same question, of a child’s heart? Jesus said “Until deal, and getting faster with every riding our favorite pony, but I wanted and another girl raised her hand, her we become like the little children we year. I remember when our kids them to grow closer in their walk with prayer went like this, “Dear God…”, will not know the kingdom of God.” were small, it seemed as though we the Lord. We’re not trying to train then she froze. So I asked if anyone I loved camp this year, I love these were the busiest in the summer, but them for the National Finals Rodeo, would like to help her finish? Another children, and I love my Jesus. I hope now - we’re just busy. Recently we we’re trying to prepare them for life. girl raised her hand and said, “Um, you know Him like I do. And the next had our Horsemanship Bible Camp Each day before we would eat, I um, um”. time that you pray, just remember, with our church, this is our version would ask the children who would So again I asked if there would be come to Him as a little child, anyone who would like to help and because He loves it that way. “Just For Grins” artist Don Dane finish the prayer? A little boy raised Hey this is Steve Stafford, I am his hand and said, “Amen, let’s eat!” the pastor at Risen Ranch Cowboy Sounded good to me, so we ate our Church, and a very proud member of lunch. Another day one boy’s prayer the Better Horses Family. went like this, “Thank you God for this dead meat we are about to eat, Amen.” I thought some of the moms were going to faint on the spot, but I loved it. Don’t you love the simplicity 2021 Summer Issue 27 28 BETTER HORSES Ride The High Trail

Hey Friends,

It’s summer on the plains, and we are busy on the trails. Best Of America By Horseback has been covering some ground this spring, with a hearty schedule for the summer and fall. We are continuing to add Ride events to our schedule all the time. We enjoy taking our riders and viewers to beautiful, scenic locations that will fit any bucket list. Showcasing these locations and campgrounds gives us a great deal of pride, as we have seen this boost awareness and traffic to many wonderful venues. eW just finished a loop in Missouri, as we revisited some locations where folks wanted us to do a return event. Our next Ride Location will be at the former Flying R Ranch near West Plains, MO, which is now the North Fork River Ranch, and is under new ownership and management. That event is scheduled for July 16-18, and what an amazing place to ride. From there, BOABH will travel to the Diamond P Ranch at West Yellowstone, Montana. Exciting. September 24 finds us in Pedro, OH, then back to Kansas the first weekend of October at Kanopolis State Park. Oct 8-10 at the beautiful historic Hughes Ranch near Bartlesville, OK. And, for a treat, we are returning this year to the Dream Ride the last weekend of October, on the beautiful prairies of Kansas. My home sweet home. In November, Alabama has invited us to Trails Ect. in Midway, AL to a family-owned facility with terrific riding scenery.

We are always looking for new places to take our friends to ride, so if you have suggestions of locations or are interested in advertising your products on our show with us, please contact me, Del Shields personally at 620-433-1819 or by e-mail at singingpoet_1 @hotmail.com You can keep up with us on Facebook, watch past episodes on our YouTube Channel, learn of our newest scheduled events on our website, www.bestofamericabyhorseback.com and watch us on RFD TV and the Cowboy Channel regularly as scheduled.

I am excited to be taking on my new role of producing these Best Of America By Horseback Rides and Events, as the show goes forward. While Tom is doing great, and is still traveling some, he is asking me to take the reins and explore new opportunities. I hope you’ll have the opportunity to come join us and be a part of what has come to be an amazing journey for the past 16 years.

God bless you. Be safe, and... ALWAYS RIDE THE HIGH TRAIL

DEL SHIELDS 2021 Summer Issue 29

M&M Golf Cars, LLC was founded in 1978 by Chris & Vivian Miller in Mexico, MO. The Millers originally owned and operated a greenhouse and nursery during that time while also working for the Mexico Country Club.

The idea of providing golf cars to the Mexico Country Club was discussed and Chris decided to purchase 6 golf cars, leasing 5 to the country club, and selling one to another member of the club. From the first lease, M&M has grown to thousands of golf cars sold and leased every year.

In 1987 their second location was opened in Lee’s Summit, Missouri. In 1998, M&M Golf Cars opened their third location in the St. Louis, Missouri area. In March of 2015, M&M Golf Cars opened their fourth location in Bettendorf, Iowa. In July of 2017, the fifth location was opened inAndover, KS.

Today, after over 40 years, M&M Golf Cars has over 50 employees across 5 locations. We provide service to the state of Kansas, most of Missouri, and parts of Iowa and Illinois. We provide new and used golf cars, commercial vehicles and 4x4 Off-road vehicles. Whatever type of car you need, we’ve got you covered.

“You’re right on par in your M&M Golf Car!” 30 BETTER HORSES

For the annual livestock field day nearly 61 years of marriage did set A Cowboy’s Faith including 25 Quarter Horse sales, it Shorty back. But his four children, By Frank J. Buchman was Shorty who always helped get grandkids, great-grandchildren and ready. Any fence and building repairs great-great-grandchildren still made Ornery Shorty Was Talented auction. Uncertain if Shorty was even were his assignment, along with a those bright eyes twinkle. “Best known as Shorty, or Short, aware but difficult time for friends fresh coat of red paint on the barn. In Hard working talented friends like grinning ornery Marven Brabb watching his life’s toil going under the his 80s, he’d jaunt right up that 24- Shorty are impossible to replace. towered above most with diverse gavel. foot extension ladder with his spray Reminded of Second Samuel 1:26: abilities.” It must be 45 years since first gun paint thinned with gasoline. “Crushed by your death, oh what a Last week Shorty, a New Year’s meeting Shorty who enjoyed off farm For any special project or advice friendship yours was.” Day baby in 1928, passed away work for the lumberyard. Anything needed, Shorty was called. He at 93-years of age. Until a few needing built or repaired; he had the repaired machinery, replaced all +++ALLELUIA+++ months ago, Shorty had continued ability and always seemed eager to the worn disc blades, even fixed a XV--25--6-20-2021 daily care of his straight Hereford do the task. saddle when the tree was broken. cow herd. Time had taken toll, but At a purebred Hereford sale, Passing of wife June in 2008 after Shorty with walking canes remained Shorty with his big smile bought a himself, jovial, mischievous, knowing, top bull. Sadly the ring man who heartfelt concerned. he’d done a number of jobs for didn’t Then serious health incapacitated even know his name. It’d always just Shorty forcing him off his beloved been “Shorty,” but Marven Brabb was farm into a care home. For a while, never forgotten after that. Shorty would visit briefly when The old barn had two grain bins, called, but lost interest in what was milk cow stanchions, three workhorse happening “back home.” stalls and a lean-to. Shorty renovated His cattle were dispersed and made them into nine riding horse then machinery, a large assortment stalls with his uniquely-designed two- of tools and household were sold at by-six gates inside Dutch doors. 2021 Summer Issue 31

Dear Maggie that you will exceed any other offer We would really like to find a new higher than yours by $X amount up home with maybe some property to your maximum price. For example, but when properties come on you submit an offer of $400,000 with the market, they sell very fast an escalation clause that you will and often over list price. How do exceed any higher offer by $500 up we buy a ranch, farm or horse to $425,000. o Purchase the property property in this market? In Its Present Condition but with the ability to do all inspections and cancel Frustrated L the contract if there are any items that are just not acceptable. Often a seller Dear Frustrated, will negotiate if repair requests are The market right now is not for the reasonable. o Pay the Seller’s closing faint of heart! You have to have a costs. o Pay the Seller’s moving plan in order to be ready and be costs up to $X amount. o Reimburse committed to buying in today’s the Seller’s utilities from contract to market. Here are some tips I give close. o Waive the Appraisal and be my buyers as well as some of the ready to make up any additional down creative ideas I have seen this year: payment that may be required by your lender. o Offer a fast closing. o While Have a buyer’s agent working not an absolute, do not make the sale for you. Agents get to see listings contingent on the sale of your current before you can as well as Pre-MLS home. If you must, you have to make listings. Pre-MLS listings are visible everything else in the contract very in the MLS system with a date that compelling. Set your limits and be the listing will go live. These listings willing to walk away if a property is are not on Zillow or other third party ‘too rich’ for your limits. websites so it is a big advantage to know about listings that are coming Good Luck and you can find your soon. perfect property! Just be patient.

Have your finances in order and Maggie already be pre-approved for your loan. You have to submit an offer also showing that you have the financial ability to complete the purchase.

Be ready to look at houses the day come on the market. You will have to be flexible and work with your agent to see the new listings quickly.

Have a strategy in advance with your agent. What are you willing to do to make your offer stand out. Here are some things I have seen this year: o Escalation Clauses – You submit your offer with an escalation clause