ISSUE 54 / March 2015
Your access to all things related to Best of America by Horseback
Planning this year's horseback vacation . . .
It sure sounds easy and the first thing in our minds are those calendar pictures of places we want to go. There is no end to magazine articles that suggest where you should spend your time and money, especially on vaca- tion. The fact is, most articles are slanted to send you to the sponsor location or from a tourism board’s quest to get more tourism dollars to their state.
So, I have been asked my opinion. First, let's go back to the calendar pictures or places you have dreamed to visit someday. Lock that in and that will be our target for this brief overview of planning. Here are my thoughts and suggestions on a very general perspective:
To begin, pick the dates you want to travel on a calen- dar. Those dates will determine so very much. We want to avoid driving ten days both going and coming on a two week vacation. (That will insure you physically and mentally drained for a 48 hour stay somewhere.) So to work within that framework, consider if you are taking your horses or using horses at a location. The locations that offer quality horses are few and far be- tween. At the moment, I can only think of two that really impress me (both are in Arizona and are members of the Dude Ranchers’ Association. They are the White Stallion Ranch and Tombstone Monument Ranch.) I am sure there are more, but I have not seen them first hand.
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The calendar month you pick will also determine which direction you should go. If it is sum- mer, you might want to avoid South Georgia where it is rumored that mosquitoes have taken away small children and animals. And if it is cold, North Dakota may not be ideal either. If you choose Canada, Alaska or the Yukon, in August, remember to bring bug repellant. These things are trade-offs of location reality and extreme beauty.
There are many resources to find places to go ride and over- nights. Consider starting with the Trail Riding Destinations found on our website which we are rapidly expanding. You will find all kinds of riding facilities from full service dude ranches to small, quaint campgrounds all listed by state. As a Trail Club Member, you are also welcome to overnight here at my farm, Andora Farm, in Culpeper, VA if you need a stop over while traveling through this part of the East Coast. We are 30 minutes from I-95 and just off Rte 29 in Virginia. You might even decide that you wish to ride the Blue Ridge Mountains while you are here, as we have a stunning view from our farm.
One note before my primary suggestion. Consider a pack trip by horseback, if you have rid- ing experience. As an outfitter for years, I loved it. There are places you can ride and fish. You might want to consider a brief trip (two or three days to get the taste of it). The re- ality will most likely be no cell phones or internet, no hot showers, no soft beds and a lot of physical effort you may not be used to. I am 63 now and can't get over not being able to do all the things I did in high school or as a kid. It may be ideal for you to take a trip with a rep- utable guide but consider everyone in your family. One unhappy person can ruin it all. My feelings on pack trips are refined to what you wish to accomplish. A quiet get-a-way or fish- ing with your soul mate or to just unwind. It is worth considering.
For this article, I suggest most of us will plan a trip with our horses. If so, here is my general suggestions: After looking at the calendar, setting the timeframe and general location, pick who is going. I like the idea of two or three trailers traveling together. (if you get more than three or four rigs, you can quickly get 8 opinions of what today's plans should be). Safety is one factor but spending time with good friends is almost sa- cred. Usually, the pattern is riding and a campfire with great dinners and many good nights sleeping to wake to fresh brewed coffee. Riding each day with your horse and friends, often without a word spoken is about as good as it gets.
You have to slow down to do it right. My wife complains when I back the trailer up to the Page 3
front door or back door for a few days. Comments like 'redneck' and what will people say seem to come to mind. However, it insures, way in advance, the trailer does not have a flat; the brakes are working and the lights work as well. If they do not, I have several days to fix them. It requires I fill the fuel tank in advance and it means I have to load my hay a few days in ad- vance instead of the morning we are leaving. ( Do not worry, the hay is as safe in your trailer as it was in the shed it was stored.) I plug it in and make sure everything is working. (This makes sure you also have the right plug ends for 30 amp or any adapters you need.) In your moving and parking of your trailer, drop by the local feed store and weigh your truck and trailer. If you have the misfortune of an inexperienced police officer that thinks you are overweight, you have a slip with a date and time that shows your rig's weight. If he or she believes you are over 26,000 pounds and you do not have a CDL, your memories of your vacation will not be with you think.
Best of all, she can take her time loading at her pace instead of a rush. I put a yellow pad and pencil in the trailer and write down anything I need to remember. (Trust me, you will think you will not forget, but you will, so write it down as a check list.)
I suggest you have paper maps even though you may have every new GPS gadget there is. I recommend you call ahead to make sure the place you read about in last year's travel book is still in business. A death in a family of a small business will certainly affect if it may be open.
The place you will visit, deserves a call to see if things are well. No fires, floods or family emergencies there? Make sure you are not arriving in the middle of another scheduled event that will ruin your plans. Get real directions other than GPS. Is there a rail road track to pass over that won't bottom out your rig? Which trails are the most visited as the 'must see' or ride trail. Get to know the front desk receptionist by first name and how to reach the office after hours, if the gate is closed or locked. Make double sure you have all required shots for that area for your horse. (I also carry a paper zerox copy of my Coggins.) Sure it is not offi- cial, but it is much better than not having one. Actually, we now use the photo Coggins on the internet that can be sent by the vet in advance. Ask your vet about it.
Never, never, never stop at a rest area on the interstate. It is the recipe for being targeted by crime. I only stop at truck stops and prefer the known higher end truck stops. The fuel price is the same or lower. Camera's everywhere. Clean bathrooms, good food, mechanical and Page 4
tire options, and an office desk that can help within anything from Fed Ex, Ups, general mail, internet, emergency help, just to name a few. Did you ever notice there are no drunks at truck stops? Professional drivers everywhere and the bad guys do not feel welcome.
When I travel, we plan for a problem. We try to have a "safe house" or stop over place every 3 or 4 hours. In other words, if I broke down here on the interstate, where would we call for an overnight or for a tow or a place to stay?
Carry a product like Horse Quencher to sweeten the water for your horse. If you drive to Florida and the water has a sulfur smell, your horse will not drink it. You may think they are not thirsty. You ride all day and have a colic emer- gency. Use your water from home and a sweetener to make the transition.
I never have less than a half a tank of fuel and three extra days of hay, food and provi- sions. Take enough cash to buy fuel and food to take you home from wherever you are. If there is a tornado, flood or emergency, there will be no credit card machine. I have seen this on four occasions. Take cash and hide it well.
The list is endless but I hope this may have helped in some preliminary planning.
One other thought: Remember the relative you loved so much that you have not seen in years or an old friend? It will add icing to the cake to plan on seeing someone like this when you go on vacation. It is worth including a couple of extra days for just down time or to visit that old friend. You deserve that treat.
You can always write me direct at my personal email at [email protected]. I will answer you or help you in any way I can. Tom Page 5
Join us on these upcoming rides October 25-27 ! Find more details on our website: www.bestofamericabyhorseback.com/ridesevents.html Leatherwood Mountains
Ferguson,East Fork NC Stables - Jamestown, TN “Cowboy Rendezvous” at Stepping Stone May 1-3, 2015 Ranch - West Greenwich, RI Oct 30 - NovEnjoy 3 the weekend full of fun activities for the October 9-11 Kentucky Derby American Heart Assoc. **Must contact location to participate Participate in this unique event in Rhode “SpringBeach Ride Training” Trail Ride and Horse- Island as Tom Seay and Best of America by Horseback covers their 10th Annual event as Myrtlemanship Beach, SCClinics - Culpeper, VA May 8-12 well as the 60th Anniversary of the ranch. January 12*-VERY18 LIMITED SPACE Join Tom Seay on his personal farm for special Cruise to Eastern Caribbean Reunion Cruiseone on one trail riding, clinics, cattle drives Nov 1-8 Join Tom on this NEW cruise location to St. and so much more! Grand Cayman, Jamaica Thomas, St. Maarten, and the Bahamas on this & Haiti Gathering at the Farm - Culpeper, VA 7 night cruise. January 24May-26 15-17 Cattle drives, team penning, clinics and semi- Carriages, Wagons & Mules at RO Ranch R.O. Ranchnars at Tom’s personal farm - Mayo, FL Nov 13-15 Mayo, FL Greenhorn Guest Ranch - Quincy, CA All breeds are invited to join this special ride April 18-20June 26-30 event that will also be open for carriages and *Very Limited Space wagons. “Our Barn”Dude Rancher’s Association Approved dude
Ridgeway, ranch, SC all inclusive ride. Lots of fun activities in addition to riding. Great location if you don’t 2016 Grand Tour Locations May 2-4 have a horse. To Be Announced!
East Fork Stables
Jamestown, TNTo join Tom Seay and Del Shields
May 16-18 for an adventure . . . Call 540-829-9555 or visit 4th Annual Gathering www.bestofamericabyhorseback.com Tom’s Farm in Virginia
June 13-15
Old Cow Town
Saguache, CO
June 20-22
Tribute to the Mustang
Wyoming
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Howdy Friends,
Am I ever excited! The weather has turned spring -like with temperatures in the 70s, the grass is poppin’ out green from under the brown, the frogs are singing at the water holes and baby calves are running, tails in the air across the pas- tures. I am ready for some warm weather riding as the season changes here at the High Trail Ranch. Although the weather was frigid here in January and February, I took on three horses to start and train for some folks. It was some cold riding but I sure did enjoy the time in the saddle.
Fresh on my mind is the time I spent performing at the Illinois Horse Fair last week. I have always enjoyed going to and being a part of the Horse Expos, but this past event was a highlight. I was the Solo entertainer for the weekend where I sang several times a day at various locations. When not singing I was at my booth selling CDs and T-shirts and talking to so many friends I have made in the horse world. I was exhausted at the end of each day, but it was worth it all. I had such a great time seeing every- one and doing what I love, that the tiredness just didn't matter.
If you have not had the opportunity to at- tend a Horse Fair, you should put it on your list of things to do in the near future. With all of the things being offered for our horse friends these days, you will be able to learn so much and gain so much by show- ing up at one of these events. In addition, the people you are able to meet and visit with who share your passion makes it even better.
My hat is off to the folk at the Illinois Horse Fair who made me feel at home and such a great part of their event. The amount of Austin McKee, owner of McKee Guitars (the maker of Del’s new guitar) and Del Shields. work put in to these by so many is incredi- ble and so much appreciated.
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Tom has my attention also as he is gearing up for some monumental events coming up this year and next. I hope you can meet up with us as at one or more of these ride lo- cations and enjoy the beauty and hospitality of the ranches where we will be riding. You can see our schedule on the website and see my schedule for performances on my web- site www.delshieldsmusic.com
I hope you get to ride often this year and that safety follows you down each trail. Thanks for keeping up with us and supporting what we do. You are valued more than you know. Till we meet, may The Lord bless and keep you, and ALWAYS RIDE THE HIGH TRAIL.
Del and two young fans at the Illinois Horse Fair Del
If you have suggestions for Del about where you would like to see him perform, send him an email: [email protected]
Visit Del’s website to see his tour schedule or to purchase his CDs: delshieldsmusic.com
LIKE Del on Facebook Del Shields Page 8
Del Shield’s CD Spurr’s big fix David Archer - TN Rick & Gail Blair - VA
delshieldsmusic.com www.spurrsbigfix.com
Tie One On Halters BOABH dVD Robin Wilcox - VA Dutch Brown - WV Monica Waldie - MO www.facebook.com/pages/Tie-One-On-Paracord-Halter-LLC Dennis Shankle - MD Judy Thouvenel - TX Wilson & Penny Flem - IL Mike Gentry - OH
Horse Quencher
Derek Jordan - GA Alex & Janice Halmagui - MO Neil & LuAnn Wood - IL Tina & Randy Hartz - IL Marge Rust - CO Cathy & Alan Roberts - TN Sharon & Kirk Mueller - MD Tammy Temple - KY Capri & Jeff Kent - KS Stephanie Snyder - MD
horsequencher.com
New Winners every month! Plus keep an eye out for new Choice Product Sponsors to giveaway their products!
You can become a Trail Club Member for just $29.95 for the whole year today! Its quick and easy with two ways: Call our office at 540-829-9555 Or send us an email, [email protected] Visit our website for all the benefits of being a Trail Club Member: www.bestofamericabyhorseback.com/trailclub ISSUE 54 / March 2015 Page 9
Justin was recently at the Rocky Mountain Horse Expo in Denver, CO as an exhibitor during the event but also host- ed clinics on horsemanship.
Watch Justin and his mustang, Cinnamon Girl, perform at the show by clicking the link: https://youtu.be/I9Rti4FW8QQ?t=1h25m58s
Let Justin help you build the trust with you horse. Come to the “Spring Training” Clinic and Trail Ride at Andora Farm in Culpeper, VA on May 8-12 with your horse. Learn the tech- niques that Justin uses with his mustangs that will help you build a great working trust with your horse. Spend time and ride with celebrity host, Tom Seay on his personal farm, Andora Farm. Get to drive cattle and participate in team penning practice. Get the one on one time with Justin in addition to participating in his clinics during the event. Call 540-829-9555 for more details or to sign up. Justin Email: [email protected]
Visit Justin’s website to learn more about his trail riding business, clinics in beautiful Guffey, CO and upcoming events for Justin: dunnshighcountry.com
Be sure to LIKE Justin on Facebook Justin Dunn Mustang Horsemanship www.facebook.com/JustinDunnMustangHorsemanship Page 10
The Trade Association Promoting Dude Ranches By: Colleen Hodson & New Member, Marble Mountain Ranch
Why should prospective dude ranch vacationers give priority consid- eration to ranches accredited by the Dude Ranchers Association (DRA)? The answers are in the education and training for higher levels of hospitality, and higher standards of safety that are afforded to association members. DRA members have access to training and professional growth courses available through the association. The Dude Ranch As- sociation offers a key path to gain ongoing training of ranch members who constantly improve their levels of service.
Secondly, entrance into the association itself requires that applicant ranches are inspected and verified as meeting and maintaining DRA standards of excellence. An independent governing body has placed a stamp of approval on all ranches accepted into membership.
Dude Rancher Association Members Operate At Verified High Standards
When you select a DRA member dude ranch, you be assured that the ranch is operating at the highest levels of the ranching industry.
In your search for the ideal dude ranch, you will find hundreds of ranches that are quite varied, and different in almost every conceivable way. Rather than first focusing on price, or activity of- ferings, or location, the first step you might consider in your search, is to limit the selection to ranches that are most likely to offer you a genuine western experience and offer the highest standards of quality. This will be a Dude Ranch Association member ranch. Anybody can hang an Page 11
“open for business” sign out on the ranch gate, publish a slick website, and purchase inclusion into various fee based internet ranch directories. None of these things will guarantee any level of honesty in offered services, any standard of risk manage- ment, or any quality assuredness in hospitality. The mere fact that a member ranch has gone through the association application process, has been inspected, and has been accepted into the association, should imply that the ranch is reaching for a higher standard. These are the ranches you should be considering prior to evaluating all the other parameters of location, cost, and pro- gram offerings.
The dude ranch association membership is the quality seal that should be considered along with the confirming TripAdvisor reviews, and the BBB ratings for the ranch. Your vacation is a significant investment. It warrants due diligence in researching and ferreting out the ranch that will surpass your quality expectations as well as meeting the unique needs of your party.
Increase the likelihood that your dude ranch vacation will meet and exceed your expectations, by selecting first from the list of over 100 Dude Ranch Association approved ranches.
To Learn More About the Dude Ranchers’ Association, their members, and to find the perfect dude ranch for you, visit their website: www.duderanch.org
Be sure to LIKE them on Facebook: Dude Ranchers’ Association
Look for this logo on dude ranches:
Don’t Miss the Fun at this Upcoming Dude Ranchers’ Association Filming Location with Tom Seay & Del Shields:
Join Now! Spaces are very limited. June 26-30: Greenhorn Creek Guest Ranch in Quincy, CA - Enjoy the beauty of this Dude Ranchers’ Association Approved Ranch that is nestled in the “Friendliest County in California” close to the scenic Feather River Canyon and the most rugged trans-sierra railroad line in California. Don’t miss your chance to join Tom when we re- turns to California.
Call 540-829-9555 to join these limited rider locations and appear in an upcoming episode of Best of America by Horseback with Tom Seay. Page 12
B&W Now Offers a Warranty!
Our Approach to Warranty
It is our policy to stand behind the products we build.
We are confident that our products are made without design or quality defects. If you are unfortunate enough to buy one of our products that doesn’t live up to our standards, we would make it right with you, our customer.
If your product suffers damage because of an accident or misuse on your part, we would work with you to get you back on the road with as little cost and hassle to you as possible, because that is just being a good neighbor.
We can’t keep your product in ‘new’ condition and your product and the finish will age through nor- mal wear and tear. You should only use our products in the manner intended in their design. Most of our products require some minimal maintenance to continue to work as they did when they were new.
We appreciate it when our customers register their products with us. However, we offer our war- ranty regardless.
To register your product with us, please go to www.turnoverball.com/warrranty or call us at 800-248-6564.
Click logo to find a dealer near you
LIKE US on Facebook: B&W Trailer Hitches Visit our website: www.turnoverball.com ISSUE 54 / March 2015 Page 13
After a long harsh winter, our equine companions may be out of shape and therefore, their saddles may look like they don’t fit properly, if they did before.
Common Mistake of Saddle Fitting: Conditioning A horse is no different from a human athlete; horses get sore mus- cles when they are not in shape. Long trail rides, once a month barrel races, or competitions when a horse is not in the proper condition will make a horse’s back sore. When you apply pressure to an uncon- ditioned horse’s back you will get swelling which accentuates or cre- ates saddle fit issues. If you feel heat or swelling after long or strenu- ous use of your horse, let his back rest and heal.
Do not jump to the conclusion that your saddle does not fit if you find your horses back is sore due to being in poor condition. A horse’s back will drop when it is not in condition or is overweight. When this happens, bridging of the saddle tree can occur. Strong ab- dominal muscles support and straighten the back of both the horse and the rider. Daily riding and conditioning will keep your horse’s back tough and strong.
Visit the NEW website: Be sure to LIKE them on Facebook: tuckersaddlery.com Tucker Trail Saddles
Catch
at the Ohio Equine Affair in Columbus, OH on Visit Lakota of Ohio’s website: April 9th - 12th www.lakotaofohio.com Like Lakota of Ohio on Facebook: Lakota of Ohio Page 14
One Big Buckle © By: Del Shields, 2004
That's one big buckle on such a little boy. And look at that old felt, how he wears it with joy. He wears those boots like a full grown man. Check out that old lariat in his hand. Why, he'd sleep in in that suit if you'd let him get by. Tucked under his hat is the big reason why. He watches his grandpa as he works each day, With his daddy right beside him each step of the way. He swears he'll be like them just as soon as he can. Tough he's a young buckaroo, he thinks he's a man. He rounds up the chickens on his stick horse old Jed, Till he's plumb tuckered out and mom puts him to bed. Now this won't last forever, cause he'll grow to full size. Don't take it granted lest late tears fill your eyes. He's quite a young cowboy, a future Galoot, But take care how you guide him, cause he'll soon wear your boots. Page 15
Join Tom and Best of America by Horseback for these great once in a lifetime extended rides!
May 8-12 “Spring Training” at Andora Farm Culpeper, VA Don’t miss this unique chance to have natural horsemanship trainer, Justin Dunn, at your fingertips to better connect with your horse and get to
Click photo to watch promo spend one on one time with celebrity host, Tom Seay on his personal farm. http://youtu.be/PgPM0lJ9vzY
June 26-30 Greenhorn Creek Guest Ranch Quincy, CA Join Tom at this beautiful Dude Ranchers’ Association guest ranch in California in the most friendliest counties of California. Greenhorn Creek Guest Ranch offers many activities in addition to riding. Visit our website for more information, www.bestofamericabyhorseback.com/ridesevents. You do not want to miss Tom’s return to California!
To reserve your space on these rides, call 540-829-9555 but hurry because spaces are limited! Page 16
October 25-27
Leatherwood Mountains
Ferguson, NC
Oct 30 - Nov 3
American Heart Assoc.
Beach Ride
Myrtle Beach, SC
January 12-18
Reunion Cruise Grand Cayman, Jamaica & Haiti
January 24-26 Did you get to watch RFD-TV’s The American on March 1st? Read all about R.O. Ranch who won the money by visiting RFD-TV’s website or click here. Mayo, FL AprilClick 18-20 here to find RFD-TV in your area. “Our Barn” Ridgeway, SC www.rfdtv.com May 2-4
East Fork Stables
Jamestown, TN May 16-18
4th Annual Gathering
Tom’s Farm in Virginia
June 13-15
Old Cow Town Saguache,Best CO of America by Horseback dress shirts, T-shirts, and show DVD’s are available!
June 20Please-22 call the office at 540-829-9555 to order your BOABH logo gear.
Tribute to the Mustang Check out our BOABH logo gear on our website: Wyoming www.bestofamericabyhorseback.com/boabhlogogear.html
ISSUE 54 / March 2015 Page 17
Put on your own trail ride and earn points! Click the image to the left to learn more about the trail riding club and how to earn Like and Share us on points or put on your Facebook! own ride. www.facebook.com/bestofamericabyhorseback
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Idle Nook Horse Camp LLC White Stallion Ranch April 9 Boles, Arkansas Tucson, Arizona East Fork Stables, TN www.idlenook.com www.wsranch.com (2014) 807-356-3655 / 501-276-9013 888-977-2624
Mingo Trails Horse Riding Park April 16 Lincoln’s Ride to the Toomsboro, Georgia White House www.mingotrails.com 478-278-6963 April 23 Big Valley Ranch, WI WATCH BEST OF AMERICA BY HORSEBACK ON:
April 30 Tombstone Monument Ranch, AZ
May 7 NEW! SHOWTIME: Grand Cayman & Thursday 2:00 pm est / 1:00 pm ct Jamaica (2014) Thank You to Our Show Sponsors
Editor in Chief: Kristen Biscoe