Gypsy Horse World From the Editor Our new magazine’s recognition of excellence by the membership is overwhelming and is official publication of the GHRA formerly known as Gypsy Tails just beginning as we grow and add new features suggested by you, the membership. 1611 Old Reno Road In the December issue we will be adding a Youth section which will feature member pho- Springtown, TX 76082 tos and short articles of children and grandchildren under 18. Please submit these to your * Regional Directors prior to the deadline for each issue, which is the first of the month prior Editor to the month published. Nov. 1 for the December issue. Help us name this Youth section Jan Easter [email protected] by submitting your suggestions to your Director. Watch for our exciting artists’ illustrations book coming out shortly too. *
Due to active members having contacted corporations to advertise in our publication we Masthead Art Allison Alvino and Ryan McGovern welcome several new businesses this issue. GHRA thank both those members and our advertisers. Please support our advertisers in any way you can as a thank you to them for * supporting your Registry, Contributing Photographers Carol Smettem-Minson We will be accepting reservations for the Gypsy Horse World premium pages for 2010 on Ann Bevan November 1st, 2009. You can email, mail or call in your reservation at that time. Remem- ber only one premium page per year per farm. (one cover, one back cover, one centerfold) * Registrar: Priscilla Cox These are exciting times for the Gypsy Horse and we invite your suggestions and ideas [email protected] and are so pleased with the direction our membership is taking the Registry. * Features Appleby Pages 22-24 Directors Photos courtesy of Region 1 George “Bud” Hartmann - [email protected] From the Editor 3 Ann Bevan and Region 2 Pam Barthel - [email protected] Registry News 4 Carol Smettem-Minson Region 3 Deb Prichard - [email protected] Color Testing Part B 6 Region 4 Jan Easter- [email protected] Region 5 Michelle Purcell - [email protected] 4C’s Special Gift 8 Region 6 Celeste Huston - [email protected] Amazical Gypsy Horse 9 Region 7 Carol Smettem-Minson - Gypsy Dream Park 10 [email protected] Why Geld? 11 * EPSM 12-13 Advertising Gypsy Angel Program 17 Cover front $350 Region 1, 2 & 3 News 18 Back cover $300 Region 4 & 5 News 19 Centerfold $500 Region 6 News 20 Inside front or back cover $275 Region 7 Appleby 22-24 Full page $200 1/2 page $100 Classified $35 On the Cover: The Gypsy Horse Registry of America, Inc. is a tax-exempt, not for profit, educational organization, and IRS 501(c) (3). The inclusion of advertise- CiCis Sir Keith, 2007 RARE, ments in Gypsy Horse World does not in any way imply endorsement or stout, strong, stunning, smoky approval by GHRA of any advertising claims or of the advertiser, its prod- uct, or its services. The GHRA does not assume any liability or responsibil- silver dapple son of St Clarins ity for the contents of any of the advertising for the quality of any products and CiCis Saffron Candy or services advertised. GHRA’s liability for errors or omissions in advertise- (palomino dam). Keith is a ments shall be limited to the cost of advertising space in an amount equal to the erroneous advertisement. Notwithstanding the foregoing, GHRA shall prime example of the fine have no liability for and no credit shall be issued to advertiser for errors that breeding and classic style of do not materially affect the value of the advertisement or where Advertiser Cielo Celeste Gypsy Horses. is responsible for the error or omission. The advertisements and articles in this magazine are only the opinion of the author of the article or advertiser, www.cielocelestefarm.com not the opinion of the GHRA, Gypsy Horse World Magazine or the printer. Publishing of ads or articles do not imply sponsorship or endorsement.
Gypsy Horse World Volume 7 No 3 page 3 REGISTRY NEWS
Minutes for GHRA Board Meeting June 30, 2009 Called to order at 11:31 am
Present Jan Easter- President/Region 4, Debbie Prichard-Treasurer/ Region 3, Susan Niesen- Secretary/Region 2, Priscilla Cox Registrar By Phone conference: Bud Hartman-Region 1, Michelle Purcell-Region 5
Welcome new board members! We are waiting for the recount runoff bal- loting on Regions 2 and 6.
We discussed new rates for Foreign Members due the cost of out of coun- try mailing The board decided foreign membership should now be $50.00, with an option to check if they want voting ballots to be sent to them or option out of voting.
BOD Insurance - Checking into the difference of ENO vs BOD. This will have to be handled by someone with a license to practice in the state of Texas. This insurance will run approx $700 to $1000.00 per year.
Jan & Priscilla will be heading to the California Fall Extravaganza at Celeste Huston in August They will be bringing the Registry wall. At this event they will be discussing getting into the USEF. The BOD approved having the Registry pay for this trip, we are looking at approx $ 2,500 - $ 3,000 for both to attend.
The magazine is a HUGE success We are checking with the IRS regard- ing the sales and state sales tax issues. The deadline for any articles and ads to be run in the magazine will be the first of the month previous to the issue publication and ads need to received by this time.
The repayment of the loan for the Registry Wall needs to be taken care of. The registry has agreed to pay Jan $1,000 this year of the $3,000 that is owed her.
USEF Partnership has been sent in to be an Associate Member.
We debated getting a postage machine in the office and have decided to try the USPS site on the internet for postage.
The Paypal feature for paying for items through the website, such as memberships and so on will have a processing fee attached (for use of this feature), as Paypal charges the organization. The expense will be passed on to the purchaser.
A motion was made by Sue Niesen and seconded by Debbie Prichard that beginning January 1st, 2010 members will be required to have at least one mare or one stallion registered with the GHRA and be a member in good standing in order to be included on the Breeders List. This passed unanimously.
We will change the membership form, rule book, membership rules and regulations and the website to reflect this change.
The Directors are going to be more involved this year. We are asking for each region to do an article for the magazine explaining what is happening in their region. We would like everyone to participate and let your area directors know what you are involved in including shows, festivals and anywhere you take your Gypsy Horses.
The meeting was adjourned at 1pm.
Gypsy Horse World Magazine Volume 7 No 3 page 4
Color Testing Part B
“T” - Tobiano Gene The tobiano pattern is typically characterized by white across the spine, which extends downward between the ears and tail. A tobiano may be predominately dark or white. The skin under the white spots is pink and under the colored areas is black. The eyes are usually brown, but one or both maybe blue or a mixture of blue and brown. The head is dark with white markings like those of a solid color horse, e.g. star, strip, snip, blaze, etc. All four legs are usually white below the hocks and knees. The mane and tail may be two colors. Since the tobiano color pattern is valued and is dominant. Horses that are homozy- gous (possess two copies of the gene) are of special value to breeders, as ALL their Tobiano offspring will inherit the tobiano color pattern.
The genetic markers tested indicate the horse is homozygous for Tobi- DEFINITIONS TT ano. The horse should pass on the Tobiano gene to all offspring. “Cr” Cream (Dilution) Gene: The genetic markers tested indicate the horse is heterozygous for Tobi- A dominant dilution gene that nT ano and carries one copy of the Tobiano gene. causes a reduction in red pig- ment in the body hair, mane No genetic markers associated with the Tobiano coat pattern were nn and tail. It acts on any base detected color. Dominant: Requires only one parent to carry & pass on the SIRE Homozygous gene. Prediction Table Heterozygous: Having two TT nT nn different alleles for a single trait, 50% TT TT 100% TT 100% nT eg. E/e. When the alleles of a 50% nT pair are heterozygous, one is D 50% TT 25%TT 50% Nt 50% nT nT dominant and the other is re- A 50% nT 25% nn 50% nn M cessive. The dominant allele 50% nT nn 100% nT 100% nn (E) is expressed and the reces- 50% nn sive allele (e) is masked. “Cr” - Cream (Dilution) Gene The cream gene, designated Cr, is a dominant (requires only one parent to carry & pass on the gene) dilution gene that causes a reduction in red pigment in the body hair, mane and tail. It acts on any base color. A true black horses can mask the pres- ence of the Cr gene, so it is possible for a black horse to produce palominos or buck- skins. Owners of a black horse with a palomino or buckskin parent may want to deter- mine if the horse carries an unexpressed Cr allele.
Double dilute. Horse tested homozygous for Cream Dilution (Two copies of the Creme Cr Cream allele). Chestnut is diluted to cremello, bay is diluted to perlino and black is Cr diluted to smoky cream. These colors can be further modified by the actions of other genes. Homozygous: Having identical Dilute. Horse tested heterozygous for Cream Dilution (One copy of the Cream al- nC alleles for a single trait. A ho- lele). Chestnut is diluted to palomino; bay is diluted to buckskin and black is diluted r mozygous horse (all off-spring to smoky black. These colors can be further modified by the actions of other genes. will carry that trait) would con- Non-dilute. Horse tested negative for Cream Dilution. Basic colors are chestnut, bay, nn tain the following alleles for black or brown in the absence of other modifying genes. color. “EE” = Black or “ee” for “Z” - Silver (Dilution) Gene red The Silver gene, designated Z, is a dominant (requires only one parent to carry & pass Recessive: A gene that is ex- on the gene) dilution gene that causes an alteration only in black pigment and has no pressed only when it is present effect on red pigment. Dilution by the Silver gene on a Black horse typically involves in two copies or if the other lightening of the mane and tail and a dilution of the body to a chocolate color, often copy is missing. dappled as well. A Bay horse carrying the Silver gene will usually have a lightened “Z” Silver (Dilution) Gene: A mane and tail, as well as lightened lower legs. Note: Although a red horse will not be dominant dilution gene that diluted by the Silver gene, it can however be a carrier of the gene and thus potentially causes an alteration only in black pass the gene on to its offspring. pigment and has no effect on red pigment. Horse tested Homozygous for Silver Dilution (Two copies of the Silver allele ZZ detected). Black-based horses will have a chocolate body with flaxen mane and tail. Bay-based horses will have lightened lower legs and flaxen mane and tail. Horse tested Heterozygous for Silver Dilution (One copy of the Silver allele de- nZ tected). Black-based horses will have a chocolate body with flaxen mane and tail. Bay-based horses will have lightened lower legs and flaxen mane and tail.
nn Horse tested negative for Silver Dilution. Silver Gypsy Horse World Magazine Volume 7 No 3 page 6 Gypsy Horse World Magazine Volume 7 No 3 page 7 4C’s Special Gift
On May the 29th forty one visitors aged 16 to 60, half in wheelchairs, There were so many stories that from the Oklahoma Foundation for the Disabled in Oklahoma City touched our hearts. Holly, one of the made their way down to the farm. The OKFD along with the United visitors, had been looking so forward to Way of Metro Oklahoma City and donations provide disabled adults seeing the horses that she had marked with programs which promote recreation, self expressions, and per- her calendar at home every day until at sonal enrichment. One of the programs they provide is an Adult Day last she was meeting and loving on the 4C Lion Kings Nala Service. The participants are taken on field trips and they just hap- horses in person. Her excitement was is first to the bus pened to have wanted a field trip to 4C’s. compelling as she ran from one to Not knowing for sure how the horses would handle all the people and another giving them hugs and kisses. Randy was showing and telling excitement we were holding our breath as everyone piled off the bus some of our guests about our little yearling Nala when he looked up and went scattering for the horses. But true to the breed, our horses just in time to see a girl in a motorized wheel chair roll right up to stood quietly for each and every one of them as they ran their hands Beauty, the two year old pasture busybody and the first Gypsy born at all over the horses, giving them hugs and kisses. our ranch. The girl reached out and put her arms around Beauty’s front leg and hugged her for several minutes. Beauty stood totally still 4C Flashy Maya and friends and looked down at her with those big gentle eyes. The response of Reggie, one of the visitors, was a favorite moment. He was literary crying with excitement as Brenda took his hand in hers and stroked Scarlett’s (our eight year old mare) forehead and nose. www.4CsGypsyHorses.com
4C Little Gypsy Fable 4C Maladi getting hugs
Gypsy Horse World Magazine Volume 7 No 3 page 8 The Amazical Gypsy Horse and the Fairy Tale Princess"
Lynn Strauman of Gypsy Rose Ranch more life threaten- www.ghswest.com had been invited to bring ing events and the Gypsy Horses to the Clements Buckaroos conditions than can Stampede Rodeo to do a demonstration of be listed here. the breed. Hesitant to go, as the following Kaylee, after her week was the Western States Horse Expo, many happy visits she decided to go as a warm up to prepare to the ranch refers for WSE. to Ms.Bodi, the Gypsy mare, as As they were getting hitched, Lynn noticed a “Amazical”, which tiny little girl all dressed up in pink like a fairy, she quickly ex- with wings, sitting on this darling little white plains mean amaz- miniature pony who was made up like a uni- ing and magical. corn. Lynn thought the only thing potentially Ms. Bodi must more darling would be if the child was atop a have sensed this Gypsy Horse. But nothing further transpired child’s special his- as they were packing up. tory as she has attached her spirit A week later at WSE a woman came to the to Kaylee and will AGHBA booth. But again, Lynn didn’t meet do anything for her and protect her, as is the competed at the D'Alonzo's open winter se- her. It wasn’t until late October that paths Gypsy Horse way, when they just seem to ries and won high point and the buckle. For crossed with the lady, Denise, whose grand- know. Miss Kaylee this was just frosting on the cake daughter, Kaylee, it was who was the fairy at as she was really enjoying life and riding her the rodeo. While Denise and Kaylee eventu- Over time this little miracle girl blossomed in “Amazical Ms. Bodi”, something that just a ally visited the ranch, the incredible story her skills while assisting in bathing and pre- few short years ago, her family would have unfolded. Kaylee is a miracle baby who had paring Ms. Bodi for shows. She eventually never even dreamed of.
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Gypsy Horse World Magazine Volume 7 No 3 page 9 Reflections of the Gypsy Dream Park Classic by Susan Hoffman
him, he calmed down. I, on the other hand, was feeling even more intimi- dated. I went to Sheri- Photo by Phillip Hoffman dan’s stall Satur- day morning and Above Susan Hoffman and Sheridan couldn’t believe All four photos thanks to ©equiscape photography What’s black and white and sometimes my eyes. My bay? No, it’s not a joke. It’s the largest pristine pony had Gypsy Horse show in the Northeast, and somehow man- it was held May 30 and 31 at the new aged to get ma- Gloucester County Dream Park in New nure stains on Jersey. Thirty three Gypsy Horses and his body which their owners gathered for two memorable ironically, was days of in hand, under saddle and driving the only part of competition. him that had Horses started arriving at the equestrian been protected center on Friday afternoon, May 29. The by a stable furthest treks were from Quebec, Canada sheet. Had I and Logansville, Georgia. Others hailed packed a hose? Shampoo? Scraper? No, English and Western disciplines, and from nearby Mid-Atlantic states. My hus- no and no. Now I’m really intimidated. It driving. Sheridan was getting into the band, myself and my Gypsy, “Thistledown was at this early stage of the game that I groove of “here I am again in this huge Sheridan,” arrived just in time for a thun- started bonding with, or rather borrowing arena” and I was getting used to being derstorm that drenched the grounds. But, from, all the other exhibitors. under the scrutiny of the judge. Although the rain soon gave way to a rainbow and Prep time over—it’s show time! The I’d never done anything like this before, I spectacular sunset. Good omens! We morning halter classes offered ample knew I could give my horse a decent moved our horse and gear into the show opportunity to see dozens of Gypsy showing as long as I rode my very best. stables. I had never seen so many drop- Horses, one more beautiful than the next. When all was said and done, I couldn’t dead gorgeous Gypsy Horses in one Stallions, mares and geldings pranced have been prouder of Sheridan, whether place before, and some equally hand- into the arena, led by their handlers. I was we got first place (which we did once) or some stall drapes. As a total “newbie” to hoping no one would notice the six-inch second, third or fourth (which we did showing, let alone Gypsy Horse owner- stretch of mane missing along Sheridan’s more than once). ship, I’m just a little intimidated at this crest, thanks to his daily wrestling match Sunday was a repeat of Saturday, ex- point. But, we came to meet other own- with our mini donkey, nor that my cloth- cept for a few notable differences. There ers, see their horses and try our luck in a ing was “wrong” for halter classes. (Made was a new judge. There was a new mix few classes. And that we did. a note to shop Wal-Mart that night for of horses, as a few people had gone After settling into our temporary digs, I khakis and a polo shirt for tomorrow!) home while others had trailered in. And led my horse into the indoor arena to ac- But, I was thrilled to be in the arena, there was one more difference—I wasn’t climate him and myself to the environ- happy that my horse looked spiffy after intimidated any more—thanks to the pro- ment. He was fairly well behaved until he his bath, delighted that he behaved like a fessional staff who managed the show caught a glimpse of the two, life-sized champ, and grateful for the smattering of and the camaraderie of the other Gypsy statues of rearing horses outside of the applause as we exited the ring. Such Horse breeders, trainers and owners. It arena’s main entrance. Whoa, Sheridan! nice and supportive people—exhibitors was altogether a wonderful experience, Okay, I’m even more intimidated now. and spectators alike! and I encourage all Gypsy Horse owners But, as soon as my horse realized that The afternoon transitioned to obstacle and lovers to go to their closest breed the bronze beasts weren’t going to eat classes and mounted competitions in show as a spectator or as a competitor.
Susan Hoffman and Sheridan Photo by Phillip Hoffman These three show photos thanks to www.equiscapephotography.com ©equiscape photography
Gypsy Horse World Magazine Volume 7 No 3 page 10 To Geld or Not to Geld…..that actually is NOT the Question” The actual question is, “Is this particular decades to achieve the highest quality in its needs and different legal responsibilities. young male horse the best of the best of the sturdy structure, conformation, size, hair, In some states there are specific laws re- best of this breed in ALL ways enough to color and temperament. Reproductive stal- garding the fencing and owning of stallions. consider for future reproduction of our breed lions (and mares) within our breed should Have you checked your state’s laws ? Are enough to keep as a stallion ?” If you an- amplify these incredible traits. you willing to accept the legal responsibili- swer honestly, the answer is probably NO, ties of owning a stallion and his behavior ? much more than it is YES. One of the truest If these principles are not followed care- Although our breed is docile by nature, a phrases in the equine industry is this “A fully, the overall quality of the breed begins stallion is a stallion and you will always be good stallion makes a GREAT gelding.” to be clearly defined as the “high quality in a position of watching his erratic testos- showy horses” and the others are “backyard terone driven behavior. Ideally, horse breeders of all breeds care- bred” The future prices demanded by fully select only the ULTIMATE representa- breeders will take a sharp division as the If your desire is to own one of the most tion of the breed to remain intact for future better representatives of the breed become amazing looking, smart, athletic, and FUN breeding. A horse with the slightest flaw in quite obvious. horses, please geld your young males be- conformation, temperament or deviation fore they are two years old and their hor- from the breed standard should NOT be In order to maintain better prices and pro- mones kick in. This will modify his behavior considered for future breeding. This is the duce better quality foals, it is imperative that and make him the best performance horse only responsible way to advance the high- only the best of the best, both mares and out there, safe on the trails, predictable in est qualities of any breed. stallions, are chosen for future offspring. It his behavior and generally just more fun to is quality, not quantity, that is the direction be around. In theory, the resulting foal of any mare our breed will take after the “exotic” nature and stallion should be BETTER than either of our breed is replaced by proven quality Additionally, geldings have their own of the parents due to the careful selection of offspring. classes in Gypsy Horse shows and GHRA only the best matches to only produce off- is working on future Gelding Incentives. spring with the best features of each. Further, unless you are a dedicated Please continue to look for more information breeder, your day to day activities will be on these programs. The Gypsy Horse has been bred for many dictated by a male horse with different
Gypsy Horse World Magazine Volume 7 No 3 page 11 Rural Heritage http://www.ruralheritage.com. EPSM -by Beth A. Valentine, DVM, PhD
The muscle disease Equine Polysaccharide yet understand what puts them over the edge tion researchers, including Dr. Harold (Skip) Storage Myopathy (EPSM) has been con- into massive muscle injury, but studies of Hintz at Cornell University and Dr. David firmed or suspected in virtually every draft muscle from horses with signs of Monday Kronfeld at Virginia-Maryland Veterinary Col- horse breed, including Belgian, Percheron, morning disease show that EPSM is a com- lege, have for many years tested the effects Clydesdale, Shire, Haflinger, Norwegian mon underlying condition, and we believe of this high-fat diet. They have discovered no Fjord, Irish Draught, Friesian, Gypsy Horses, EPSM is the cause of the disease. Whether ill-effects and have found some indications draft cross, and a draft mule. This newly- or not all horses with Monday morning dis- that this diet is better for all horses. recognized disease, under research at the ease also have EPSM remains to be abso- College of Veterinary Medicine at Oregon lutely proven, but so far evidence suggests You might think high-fat feed is much more State University, has likely been around for they do. expensive than feeding other grains, but high- hundreds of years. It has been identified in fat feeds are so high in calories that the many breeds of horse, but appears to be "Stringhalt" (sometimes called "springhalt") is amount necessary to provide the same num- particularly common, severe, and difficult to a condition producing abnormal hind leg ac- ber of calories is much less. Fat provides detect in the draft breeds. In fact, approxi- tion, especially when the horse backs or more than twice the calories per volume com- mately two-thirds of all draft related horses turns. Some people describe this action as a pared to carbohydrates. For example, 2 cups show evidence of EPSM, if you look at their "hitch" or "cramp" in which the horse pauses of oil (approximately one pound) provide muscles microscopically. with its hind leg in the air before stomping it about 4,000 calories, whereas one pound of In drafts EPSM has been identified as a down. It occurs most often when the horse corn, oats, sweet feed, or other commercial cause of severe muscle wasting and weak- backs or turns in a tight circle, but I have seen feed provides only 1,200 to 1,400 calories. ness in both young and older horses, of "tying horses do it while standing, or on the first step Factor in the potential costs of veterinary care up" (Monday Morning Disease) in older when they get going, or on the last step be- for the affected horses, or even the potential horses, as a cause of poor performance, fore stopping. In many cases, horses thought loss of a horse, and the cost of the new diet "shivers," and other abnormal hind limb gaits. to have "stringhalt" actually have a form of looks even better. Affected horses may easily be misdiagnosed shivers as having foaling complications, colic, or Good quality hay and pasture are still vitally other diseases. Most devastating of all, this "Shivers" is a condition that looks similar to important; only the grain is changed. The disease has been identified as causing re- stringhalt. It differs in that shivers horses simplest diet consists of replacing a portion of cumbency ("down horses") due to weakness often progress to muscle wasting and weak- the grain with alfalfa and adding vegetable oil, during work, associated with foaling, at rest, ness, but these severe signs may not show but these days we have many different ways or following general anesthesia. up for years. A horse with classic shivers to achieve an EPSM diet. The best diet for EPSM and Other Conditions trembles or quivers and abnormally elevates your EPSM horse is one you are happy buy- "Monday morning disease" is most often de- its tail. As with Monday morning disease, ing that your horse is happy eating, and that scribed in hard-working draft horses that are EPSM has been shown to be an underlying keeps your horse's muscles healthy. given a day off with full grain feed. When they condition in many draft horses (and other are asked to work the next day, these horses breeds) with shivers. The abnormal action is With dietary therapy, many cases of EPSM show severe signs of the condition known as apparently caused by a lack of energy to the show 100% improvement. Dietary therapy is "tying up" in saddle horses—muscles become powerful hind limb muscles. Only further most effective when started in the disease's stiff and begin to degenerate; the horse stops study will determine if shivers has other earlier stages. Severely affected draft horses moving and may go down. causes. may die, despite having been started on die- Therapy tary therapy. We believe they die because the Massive muscle injury results in release of An important part of the studies began at disease is so advanced at the time of diagno- the pigment myoglobin from damaged mus- Cornell, and continued at Oregon State Uni- sis. Unfortunately, the naturally stoic nature of cle, and the urine becomes a dark red-brown versity study has been the evaluation of diet many draft horse can allow sever changes to (myoglobinuria). Because of this reddish change as a treatment. Horses with EPSM occur within the muscles without signs of color, the disease is also called seem not to be able to derive adequate mus- problems for the owner to observe. By the "azoturia" ("azo" from the red clothing dye + cle energy from carbohydrates, the main time these horses show obvious problems the "t" from who knows where + "uria," referring source of energy in grains, sweet feeds, and disease may be quite advanced and severe. to urine). Other names include "set fast," pelleted horse feeds. The diet change in- Changing the diet of draft horses from a car- "exertional myopathy," and "exertional rhab- volves decreasing the amount of dietary car- bohydrate-based concentrate to a high-fat domyolysis." bohydrates and replacing them with fat as an low-carbohydrate feed may decrease, delay, energy source. For details see http:// or even prevent the signs of EPSM in affected We believe the massive muscle damage in www.ruralheritage.com/vet_clinic/ horses. For some EPSM horses, diet therapy EPSM drafts is due to lack of muscle energy. epsmdiet.htm has been life-saving. Horses on this diet often The common occurrence of slightly increased have improved muscling and increased en- levels of muscle enzymes in the blood of If you have a confirmed EPSM horse in the ergy. Most important, they are able to perform apparently normal or only mildly affected barn, it may be easiest to feed all your horses with minimal to no muscle damage. Only time horses suggests that these horses have low- the same diet. Feeding a "normal" horse the will tell just how well diet therapy works. level muscle injury during exercise. We don't EPSM-type diet is not harmful. Several nutri- (continued on next page)
Gypsy Horse World Magazine Volume 7 No 3 page 12 EPSM -by Beth A. Valentine, DVM, PhD (continued) Rural Heritage http://www.ruralheritage.com. has been life-saving. Horses on this diet often “Although the quarantine in Texas is released, have improved muscling and increased en- VS Quarantine Lifted some states may continue to enforce enhanced ergy. Most important, they are able to perform entry requirements or restrictions on Texas live- with minimal to no muscle damage. Only time News Release stock until the height of the VS ‘season’ ends in will tell just how well diet therapy works. Texas Animal Health Commission late fall, when temperatures drop. New Mexico Box l2966 * Austin, Texas 78711 * (800) 550- also has had VS this year, and it is possible that 8242 * FAX (512) 719-0719 another VS case could be detected in Texas, After dietary fat, exercise is the second most Bob Hillman, DVM * Executive Director since the virus is active this year.” said Dr. Bob important thing needed by horses with EPSM. For info, contact Carla Everett, information Hillman, Texas’ state veterinarian and head of the Standing in a tie stall or going for long trailer officer, at 1-800-550-8242, ext. 710, or ce- Texas Animal Health Commission, the state’s rides only makes these horses worse. Give [email protected] livestock and poultry health regulatory agency. He an EPSM horse as much daily turnout and as For immediate release: urged private veterinary practitioners and much regular work as possible, allowing the Vesicular Stomatitis Quarantine Lifted in Starr livestock owners to check with the states of desti- horse to maximally utilize the dietary fat. Be County, Texas; nation prior to moving animals to ensure all careful with warm-ups, though, and don't Continue to Check with States of Destination entry requirements are met. over-exert the horse when returning it to work Before Hauling Livestock! Dr. Hillman explained that the clinical signs of VS after a lay-up Texas animal health officials have lifted a quaran- mimic the highly dangerous foot-and-mouth tine on a ranch in Starr County, where horses disease, and a veterinary exam and laboratory have recovered from vesicular stomatitis (VS), a tests are needed to confirm a diagnosis. “Horses Beth A. Valentine, DVM, PhD, http:// virus that occurs sporadically in Texas, New are not susceptible to foot-and-mouth disease, www.ruralheritage.com/vet_clinic/ Mexico, Arizona, Colorado, Wyoming and other but they are often the first animals to get VS,” virtualvet.htm western states. Currently, there are no said is involved with EPSM research and other quarantines or active investigations for vesicular Dr. Hillman. “We can assist with private veterinary veterinary matters at the College of Veteri- stomatitis in Texas. practitioners with disease investigations at nary Medicine, Oregon State University. Livestock susceptible to VS include horses, cattle, no charge, and we can receive disease reports 24 She is this site's virtual vet and co-author sheep, pigs, deer and other cloven-hooved hours a day at 800-550-8242.” of Draft Horses, an Owner's Manual. This animals. Infected animals can develop blisters, lesions and sloughing of the skin on the muzzles, article appeared in The Evener 1998 issue tongue, teats and above the hooves and usually of Rural Heritage http:// recover in two to three weeks. To prevent the www.ruralheritage.com. Thank you to spread of this virus, which is not fully understood, them for their permission to reprint, quarantines remain in effect until at least 21 please visit their website! days after the animal’s lesions have healed.
Gypsy Horse World Magazine Volume 7 No 3 page 13
Gypsy Horse World Magazine Volume 7 No 3 page 16 Gypsy Angel … Official Welcome of Sir Gawaine to ARCH
The American Gypsy Angel Horse Foundation, officially a 501 c(3) as of August 2009, is a part of The American Gypsy Horse Breed Association and as such, requires membership to AGHBA www.aghba.org for participating in the foundation’s efforts to award Gypsy Angel horses to therapeutic centers and community organizations working with special needs per- sons. They are continually in need of membership participation to keep funds coming in to support these efforts. They request you join the organization so their Gypsy Angel work can continue. They have three additional “Angels” to date that are being supported by members of AGHBA. After a very ardent and rigorous application and screening process, the American Gypsy Horse Angel Foundation and the American Gypsy Horse Breed Association are proud to announce the recipient of Gypsy Angel #1, Sir Gawaine to: Atlantic Riding Center for the Handicapped (ARCH) Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey ARCH is a NARHA Premier accredited center. Sir Gawaine will join this highly qualified therapeutic riding center as their newest therapy horse for use in their comprehensive and diverse programs. The Board and staff of ARCH were informed of the AGHAF Board decision following an onsite audit on April 29, 2009. They have expressed their gratitude and excitement for the opportunity to host this first ever Gypsy Angel horse, and they have already referred to him as their ARCH Angel! On June 27, 2009, the official “Open House-Welcome” was held for Sir Gawaine, Gypsy Angel #1, at The Atlantic Riding Cen- ter for the Handicapped, in Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey. The Welcome was open to the public and media alike. Sue Adams, founder and Executive Director for the center was the host for the event. AGHAF President, Lynn Strauman, AGHBA Secretary Robin Clark and her husband Glen, foster parents to Sir Gawaine were in attendance. All photos below copyrighted by Glen A Clarke Lifetyme Images
Gypsy Horse World Magazine Volume 7 No 3 page 17 Region 1 News Bud Hartmann, Director
Breyerfest 2009 was held at the KY horse park on July 17-19 and draws over 6,000 visitors and collectors. There were four Jodi Knecht and her husband own and oper- Gypsy Horses that participated in the opening ate Stoney Creek Farm in Waymart PA. At ceremonies and breed demonstrations the Gypsy Dream Park Classic Charity Horse throughout the weekend. Representing Show at the Gloucester County Dream Park Also, they participated in a gymkhana on GHRA Region 1 was Travis and Tabatha May 31st, "Harley" took first in her weanling Sunday July 19. Additionally they partici- Adkins along with their five year old daughter class. In May they purchased their first Gypsy pated in a breed demo at Tractor Supply with Laken. www.bootlegexpressdraftfarm.com Stallion, Rom Rye. www.stoneycreekfarm their stallion and yearling filly. www.vermontgypsyhorses.com Joe and Michelle Os- good of Horseshoe Stephen & Ranch, Topsham, Sharon Lawler Vermont competed in of Northfield, the Connecticut Valley Vermont ‘s Lizzy Fair in Bradford, Ver- with Lennon mont. Joe took driving the gore- Champion for the day! ous countryside.
Region 2 News Pam Barthel, Director
three days. “Lexington” as he’s affectionately Faribault, MN. Dolly, known, stayed on his best behavior in spite of also participated in a tornado storm blowing over. Blooming Prairie, MN www.mygypsypony.com "35th Annual Old Fashioned 4th of July Pa- Albert and Pam Barthel of Creek Side Gypsy rade". It was expected to be attended by Farm with Dolly, and banner holders, Erick approx 25,000 people. Barthel and Adrian participated in a parade in www.creeksidegypsy.com
Melanie Block of Bohemian Gypsy Cobs displayed their stallion, BoHo’s Cold Fusion, at the Illinois Horse Fair on March 6-8, 2009 where the crowd was esti- mated to be about 10,000 people over the
Region 3 News Debbie Prichard, Director
Ella was born April 22, 2009 to The Jolly’s of Glen Grace Farm. Her dame is Running Winds Gypsy Wind and her sire is Sir Royal Excalibur. She is beautiful, smart, sweet and a joy to work with! More on this foal and her lineage at www.glengracefarm.com
Gypsy Horse World Magazine Volume 7 No 3 page 18 Region 4 News Jan Easter, Director
Linda Brown, of A Ryder brought several students who took turns Wizards Spell with Titania and was in the ribbons at the Ranch, spent 17 Texas Gypsy Horse Summer Classic. Marsha Hannah’s Horseshoes of Hope, a Non-Profit days at the world really enjoyed seeing the students working with Therapeutic Riding Center in Fannin renowned NCHA her Gypsy “Kid”. County. For detailed show results see the Cutting Summer Marsha Gulick website at Spectacular in Fort Worth in the vendor area www.gypsydreams.com www.showyourgypsyhorseclub.com. showing off our breed. There were attendees from all over the U.S. as well as Australia and The Texas Gypsy Horse Summer Classic in Venezuela and others at this prestigious McKinney, Texas took place on June 13 and event. The June issue of the GYPSY 14. Saturday evening with a Tejas Fajita Fi- HORSE WORLD magazine made it into the esta Dinner with around 50 people joining in hands of so many new potential buyers really the festivities. Both Saturday and Sunday the rewarding our advertis- arena was graced with several Equine Exhibi- ers. www.GypsyHorsesInTexas.com tions. The silent auction was a big success and the participants donated all the items. The Marsha Gulick’s friend/teacher/trainer Darla show contributed a percent of the proceeds to
Region 5 News Michelle Purcell, Director
Here is a picture of my first Gypsy foal at four We put Nobby out with two more mares and feather flying and proceeded to tell him that days old (actually my first foal of any kind babies. Well the one month old filly, Darcy under no circumstances was he to discipline ever). His name is Banyan. Chrysti Queen (who is Jezebel’s sister which tells you a her daughter. I love Goldie. She is the best great deal) decided she was going to “run the mom. NO one not even Nobby is correcting stallion” and proceeded to chase Nobby all her precious princess. As for little Darcy, she around the turnout. She really had him burn- just strolled off and went to play with Seamus. ing rubber. After awhile Nobby got tired of I swear she was saying “nana na na nana I running from this bold baby and decided he got Nobby in trouble”. I love the herd dynam- was going to correct Darcy by giving her a ics. little kick. Nothing bad ... just a little “Stop Wy (Wyleen) May It” ...bad choice on his part. Her mother, www.westrivergypsy.com Goldie, came thundering in all mane and
Gypsy Horse World Magazine Volume 7 No 3 page 19 Region 6 News CiCi Huston, Director
Ocho of Gypsy where. Anjelica Huston Station, from Pope graciously posed for Valley, CA., won photos with guests, the FC Division, also attending were Bo L to R: Reserve High Point Derek just back from Anjelica & at this year’s Cali- Washington, D.C., Cici fornia Gymkhana where she met with Huston, Association's, members of Con- Northern Classic gress about horse CiCi and Art Perry Art Perry held this year in protection issues; and one of his silver saddles Clair and Ocho run Clements, CA. Frank Stallone and his mother Jackie, singer the poles about each entry. The audience voted for Ocho was skillfully Sophia (Stevie Wonder’s daughter) as well as their favorites with rousing applause. maneuvered through the courses by 13 year celebrity costume designer Keith Holman who As the sun set and night settled on the val- old Clair Amador, of Pope Valley CA to take brought costumes he created for Dolly Par- ley the crowd made their way to the covered the FC Division, Reserve High Point win, a ton, Michael Jackson, Lionel Ritchie, Bobbie arena and were treated to a professionally lit gold painted wooden chest full of $100.00 in Brown and a gown for Diana Ross. Fundrais- performance to rival any equestrian show in Gold and Silver Dollar coins. The duos total ers for Wm Holden Wildlife Foundation and the country. “Coin Count” for the three day event was AGHBA Gypsy Angel Horse program. Diane Olds Rossi, one of the most famous $185.00 www.gypsystation.com Tables shaded by huge white umbrellas dressage trainers in America, presented her were on the lawn for over 300 guests. A won- “Dancing Horses Under the Stars” including a Cielo Celeste Farm and Gypsy Horse derful Chuck Wagon dinner was served and dancing dressage horse and a couple per- breeders from all over America arrived in everyone settled in for the afternoon’s festivi- forming a romantic ballet on Gypsy Horses. costume for an equine ties. The next day Ms Rossi held a fabulous extravaganza that ri- Celeste brought out her stallions one by one clinic instructing on horse and rider improve- valed any equine pro- introducing them as they pranced between ment. Truly the event of the year. duction in the country. the tables, culminating with St Clarins being L to R Tom Price, a Gypsy presented to a life-sized carousel horse hand D. Bruggemeir, breeder from Wales carved by Gypsy Horse breeder Ingrid Smith. friend, Barb flew over to attend. Anjelica Huston presented all the costume Cross, Sue Celebrities were every- contestants and improvised wonderful stories Gallien, Tom Price Priscilla Cox
Gypsy Horse World Magazine Volume 7 No 3 page 20
Region 7 Carol Smettem-Minson, Director
A SPECIAL DAY - 2009 APPLEBY memorize and absorb news. A lot of Gypsies people come from around One might say that once you have been to have unusual or rather different names to the world to see, and this Appleby Horse Fair you have achieved the what you and I are more familiar with and this year I can actually be a ultimate in witnessing the biggest single an- makes it even harder. I have the advantage part of it. nual gathering of Gypsies in the whole of though that my better half, David Brook, is So this special day arrived. It started with my Britain. The excitement, the crowds, the com- exceptional at remembering names and appointment with my spinal surgeon, who plete chaos, the thousands of horses from the faces. when I asked if I could drive horses yet, just tiny Shetlands often ridden by the tiniest These campfire meetings are an enjoyable looked at me in despair. I took the answer as gypsy child with complementary hazel twig in part of pre Appleby. News and views hand, the road racers and their bare back are aired, deals are struck, marriages are jockeys showing the meaning of G- force in planned and old folks get to see their old time their cheeks, the trotting horses, the harness friends and reminisce. horses and of course the ever present Gypsy It was during one of these campfire gather- Cobs, in its multiple of colours but of course ings this year with the Harker family, that my the favored colour by a Gypsy is black and life suddenly had the biggest rush of adrena- white. line and feeling of anticipation. I was by now But in our village situated five miles outside out of a wheel chair and on crutches, and was Appleby in the Upper Eden Valley, the antici- sat next to Sydney Harker and his grandson pation starts in March with the village people Simey. I must say at this point, one of the gossiping about Appleby week. nicest families I have ever had the pleasure of The date for putting your hanging baskets meeting. They welcomed me and my family NO. Of course, I wasn’t expecting any thing outside is dictated by Gypsy week, the villag- from the first day we met, and since then I else. Wishful thinking I guess. ers wait until after this week before they go on have had many pleasurable hours with them The Harker family was camped just up the holiday. The local swimming baths has its and their horses. road from our farm by the edge of a stream annual maintenance shut down and everyone on a village green opposite a pub. (Got the holds his breath until the Thursday after Ap- picture)???? pleby. I went straight from the hospital to where The whole of this area is over taken by Gyp- they were camped. My son dropped me off sies, those who like to call themselves Gyp- and at that point I was at the Harker's family sies, their caravans, living wagons, horses, mercy. I felt a little vulnerable on my crutches donkeys and dogs. Some of my good friends with horses everywhere. But, Simey soon are Gypsies and once accepted by them they came over and took charge. He sat me down will be the kindest/honest and most helpful at the base of a little bridge and I watched as people you could wish to know. Generosity they systematically stood each wagon-horse is their middle name, but it only comes with in the stream for ten minutes. I asked why this time and gained trust. was. He said it was because when they drive The year started for me in, I guess one their horses for a long while on the road it is could say, a rather traumatic and stressful On reading my disappointment of having to good to soak their feet in cold water first. way. Not to bore you, but it involved surgery watch the Appleby Fair proceedings from the Each Gypsy Cob seemed to know what to with a long recovery period. A visit to Ap- sideline this year, Simey suggested I travel expect and once led into the stream, the lead pleby was going to be out of the question for with him and his family to Appleby on one of rope was dropped. They just stood there me this year. It was too risky, I couldn’t take waiting and waiting. Five, Six, Seven horses that chance of being knocked down and at all stood together cooling their feet. Appleby Fair you have to be able to move pretty quickly. The shout of ‘mind ye backs’ is the only split second warning that you’re about to be mown down by a frothing, sweat- ing, 100 mile an hour racing horse. I reluctantly agreed that I would view the pre week proceedings from the back of a car. It is customary for us to drive around the miles of roads near to our home the week before Ap- pleby and meet up with our travelling friends, share a cuppa over the camp fire and talk his Living Wagons. Now if you have been to about the previous year’s events, catch up on Appleby, you will understand my anticipation. family news, who got married, who had chil- The sight of a convoy of traditional Bowtops, The harness was laid out for each pair of dren or who died. Gypsies have big families Pot Wagons and Flat Carts pulling on to Ap- horses. One horse stood in the shafts and the and to remember all their names on an an- pleby Fair Hill is a sight that continues to fill other on the side, the sideliner is usually the nual campfire party tests your ability to me with awe every year. It is this sight that one learning the ropes. Gypsy Horse World Magazine Volume 7 No 3 page 22 Region 7 continued (a special thank you to Ann Bevan and Carol Smettem-Minson for the photos)
When you first see all this harness it makes was the last leg of a five day journey, cover- mally hear. The clip clops of the hooves along you wonder how on earth they know which ing perhaps ten or twelve miles a the road, the jingle of bells, the rattle of pans, piece goes where. Each horse has its own day. Simey, a young teenager with all the are all sounds one associates with Appleby harness. Sydney runs the task of harnessing savvy of his piers, drove his horses like an old Fair. But, the twitter of Warblers, Song the horses like a Sergeant Major with preci- professional. Steady up for the downhills and Thrushes, and Edge Sparrows, the alarm call sion, patience, and authority. At the same the pushing on for the steep inclines. At one of Blackbirds are all sounds you miss speed- time, he was assuring a five year old that his point approaching Appleby Town, the young ing by in a car. efforts to tack his own horses have not gone horse jibbed and caused the old matron in the A stoat ran across the road, rabbits just unnoticed. With a kind word and a little altera- shafts to mount the curb. You could see that continue to nibble at the side of the verge, a tion, the horse was soon harnessed and he she wanted to keep going, but the wheel got roe deer lifted her head in the sunlight on the proudly stood holding his very own horse in caught. That old mare knew if she stopped on edge of a copse. The mare had seen these its shafts. They start young, so the children this hill then it was going to cause a problem. strange objects before and did not need to learn horsemanship from the beginning. They In seconds Simey had given the reins to the run. Further along a group of five or six learn right from wrong and to respect and little lad travelling with us, maybe six years horses, more accustomed to the race track, appreciate their horses, to treat them right old? He jumped off and caught hold of the followed us for as long as their posh post- and in return they are trusted and given their head of the sideliner and with some kind, but and-rail fenced field let them. They were own charges right from the start. firm, words he got that young horse going wishing that this freedom could come their forward. The old matron took this as her cue way, if only for a day. to put her back into it and with a lot of effort Before long, we were off again and arrived on everyone’s part, the old pot wagon was in the town along the riverbank. We were soon wiggling its way up the hill into the ap- halted by the police, who obviously had no proach of Appleby Town. horse sense whatsoever, for if they knew of The steep hill down into the town is another the effort to pull these big heavy wagons up test of the horses ability to read the road. This the steep incline on to Fair Hill they would old pot wagon doesn’t have a brake like the have waived us on without hesitation. But Living Wagons, so all the braking is done by showing their ignorance, we were all stopped. the horses and their breaching. In fact only When given the all clear, each turnout had to the matron, as the sideliner, did not have start from a standing position and haul their breaching which is usual. They have to be wagons up this tremendous hill. The effort to It seemed in no time the harness was on, able to sit their bottoms down into it and take do this is just indescribable. It is easy for one horses were backed into shafts and sideliners the weight of the wagon rolling down the hill. to slip down to their knees and then it’s im- attached. Sydney found me a garden chair This is where experienced wagon horses possible to get started again. Half way up and and put it in the 100-year-old Pot Wagon, come into their own. Simey’s young horse began to panic at the (this is a slightly different shape to the Living At the bottom of the hill all the wagons thought. The matron was doing all the work Wagon as it has a bow shape base.) I was stopped conveniently opposite the pub. Tradi- and before you know it, Simey was out and then helped into the wagon by Simey, not an tionally a drink was had and the horses running alongside his horses giving them all easy thing to do with crutches and restricted caught their breath. the encouragement needed to get them up movement. It is amazing how high these wag- The road to Appleby Town is a route I take that steep hill. A car came to a screeching ons are off the ground. about twice a week for shopping, the bank, halt and two more gypsies bailed out and took etc. But this day gave me the opportunity to the horses’ heads and started running with see and hear things you would never nor- them. This allowed Simey to take the reins once more and jump back on board before he got left behind! In no time at all we were up to the top and slowing down to pull on to the fairground. The crowds of people, the achievement in those horses, the smell of hard earned sweat, the elation of arriving, and the feeling of relief, is something I will never forget. The 2009 Appleby Fair had gone from being the Fair I thought I wanted to forget because When everybody was ready, equipment, of my inability to walk, to total amazement, kids loaded up, a car set off in front to clear thrill, excitement and every other emotion the way ahead on a very busy and dangerous possible. Through the generosity of one fam- road. Five amazing wagons and their various ily, their kindness, and understanding of my teams of horses, some with two in front, some disability and such great care, they gave me with horses tied on the back, set off at quite a one of the most memorable Appleby Fairs I speed. These horses “knew” what their desti- will ever experience. nation was and the distance to travel. This Gypsy Horse World Magazine Volume 7 No 3 page 23 Collage of Appleby Photos courtesy of Ann Bevan and Carol Smettem-Minson
Gypsy Horse World Magazine Volume 7 No 3 page 24